one mindanao - may 22, 2014

Caraga’s entry to Tatak TESDA Video-Making contest wins Best VideoRobert E. RoperosCARAGA REGION

THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 183

Wider economic and tourism ties with Vietnam, discussed during bilateral meeting

NATIONAL

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CENTRAL MINDANAO

ARMM

NORTHERN MINDANAO

WESTERN MINDANAO

SOUTHERN MINDANAO

Panabo City conducts Tilapia Seminar

HR conference engages practitioners’ to be ‘changemakers’

PRC Agnor-Butuan City chapter reports accomplishments

Town receives infra projects from provincial government

ARMM hires over a thousand new teachers

Madaris in ARMM to receive financial assistance

DepEd-ARMM earmarks P300K to refurbish century-old school bldg in Maguindanao

DFA announces hiring for Foreign Service Officer IV

LGU-Bayog supports Brigada Eskwela

Diskwento Fair exhibitors in Isabela City net P200T sales in 1 day

Comelec skeds 54 satellite registration centers for voters in Ozamiz

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Information to Empower Filipinos

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CARAGA REGION

HIV Infection among youth alarming; NYC calls for immediate interventions 13Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat

Claro A. Lanipa

Rene V. Carbayas

Mark Anthony G. Gellor

Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

Shahana Joy E. Duerme

Nora L. Molde

Oliver Ross V. Rivera

Caraga’s entry to Tatak TESDA Video-Making contest wins Best Video

Caraga Region’s lone finalist in the first Nationwide Tatak TESDA Video-Making Contest won Best in Video during

the Awards Night Friday, May 1 at the PAGCOR Grand Theater in Parañaque City, Metro Manila.

Noel Japitana of this city was chosen as one of the awardees in the Individual Category out of 10 finalists coming from different regions in the country. He received P25,000.00 cheque plus a trophy and a Plaque of Recognition from Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director-General, Sec. Joel J. Villanueva; TESDA Deputy Director-General for TESD Operations Atty. Teodoro Pascua; Deputy Director-General for Policies and Planning Irene M. Isaac and TEVSAPHIL Chair Col. Alejandro T. Escaño. The three-hour show was hosted by Philippine showbiz comedian Bayani Agbayani and Korean Disc Jockey Grace Lee. The crowd was likewise entertained by performers of Gateways Institute of Science and Technology Choir, Asia

Pacific C o l l e g e of Advance Study, Jacobo Z. Gonzales Memorial School of Arts and Trades, TV-5’s Talentadong Pinoy Grand Champion, and ABS-CBN’s The Voice Artists Thor and Lecelle Trinidad.

For the Individual Category, Bryan Hernandez of San Pablo City, Laguna won the Grand Prize and received P100,000 plus plaque and trophy, while Elnard Ympal of San Juan,

by Robert E. Roperos

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Province of Siquijor was declared Best in Story receiving P25,000.00 cheque, and National Capital Region’s Omar Kevin Mohammad of the host city won the People’s Choice Award and received P50,000. In the School category, United C h r i s t i a n A c a d e m y C o l l e g e of Asia grabbed the Grand Prize, winning P1 million worth of Training for Work S c h o l a r s h i p Program (TWSP) slots. The school also won the People’ Choice Award grabbing P500,000 worth of TWSP scholarship slots. Negros Occidental Language and Information Technology Center of Bacolod City won the Best in Video award, receiving P250,000 worth of TWSP scholarship slots, while I-Link College of Science and Technology in Midsayap, Cotabato was declared Best in Story and also received P250,000 worth of TWSP scholarship slots. From a total of 137 official entries received by TESDA Central Office, the top twenty were selected – 10 for Individual and 10 for School

categories and from the ten finalists, special awards and the grand

winner were selected in each category.

The five judges were headed by Mr. Robert Labayen, Head of Creative C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Management of ABS-

CBN. In his speech, Sec.

Villanueva emphasized that the winning videos

will be used by TESDA in the agency’s promotional and advocacy campaigns which include the showing as advertorial materials in national and international shows

promoting technical-vocational education in the Philippines.

6 MAY 2014 | PAGE

Across the NationVietnamese Prime Minister meets President Aquino in Malacañang

Prime Minister Dung is back in the country for the second time upon the invitation of President Benigno Aquino III. The President welcomed the visiting leader in Malacanang.

Prime Minister Dung’s chartered aircraft Airbus A321 touched down at Villamor Airbase in Pasay City at 12:30 p.m.

He then went to Intramuros, Manila for a wreath-laying ceremony at the monument of Vietnamese political leader and then President Ho Chi Minh.

From Intramuros, Prime Minister Dung convoyed to Malacanang to pay a courtesy call on President Aquino.

Foyer honors was accorded Prime Minister Dung upon his arrival in Malacanang at 3:40 p.m. President Aquino ushered the visiting leader for the traditional signing of the guest book at the Palace’s reception hall.

The two leaders then proceeded to the Music Room for the courtesy call that lasted more than an hour. Present during the courtesy call were Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del

Vetnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung arrived in the country Wednesday for a working visit as he is scheduled to

attend the World Economic Forum on East Asia (WEF-EA) to be held in Manila from May 21 to 23.

7 MAY| PAGE

Across the Nation

Rosario, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr., Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Department of National Defense Undersecretary Honorio Azcueta, Philippine Ambassador to Vietnam Jerril Santos, and Asia and Pacific Affairs Assistant Secretary Minda Calaguian-Cruz.

On the side of Vietnam, Prime Minister Dung was accompanied by Pham Quang Vinh, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs; To Lam, Deputy Minister of Public Security; Truong Trieu Duong, Vietnam Ambassador to the Philippines; Nguyen Van Nen, Minister Head of Government Office of Vietnam; and Nguyen Chi Vinh, Deputy Minister of Defense.

The courtesy call was followed by an expanded bilateral meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room attended by several Cabinet men and their Vietnamese counterparts.

Among the matters discussed were

defense and maritime security, tourism, trade and investment, promoting bilateral cooperation and people-to-people exchange.

Both leaders issued a joint press statement where they condemned China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea and again called for strict observation of the international law and early conclusion of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

President Aquino also hosted a dinner in honor of Prime Minister Dung at the President’s Hall.

President Aquino thanked Vietnam for assisting the country during the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) last year. Prime Minister Dung, on the other hand, congratulated the Philippines for its robust economy and the recently signed Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro. PND

President Aquino said the institution of transparency and adherence to sound macroeconomic fundamentals have contributed to the resurgence of the economy of both countries.

“We also discussed the prospects brought about by this resurgence—and how with it we can strengthen trade and investment activity between our two nations,” said the Philippine President.

In 2013, the total bilateral trade of the Philippines and Vietnam

amounted to US$1.33 billion.“Our objective now is to attain a

two-way trade to the tune of US$ 3 billion by 2016,” President Aquino said.

President Aquino also said that they also discussed opportunities for tourism cooperation such as developing cruise tourism.

“I look forward to other innovative collaborations for tourism between our countries, since both our nations view this sector as an important driver for growth not only for our economies,” President Aquino said. PND

Wider economic and tourism ties with Vietnam, discussed during bilateral meeting

President Benigno S. Aquino III and Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung discussed during their bilateral meeting at

Malacanang on Wednesday how to widen economic and tourism ties between the two countries.

8MAY2014 | www.pia.gov.ph PAGE |

ARMM seeking higher budget for agri in 2015

To prepare the region for the upcoming new political entity in Mindanao, the agriculture department of the Autonomous

Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is seeking a bigger budget for 2015.

Agriculture officials said this is to fast track the empowerment of the region’s agriculture sector ahead of

the establishment of Bangsamoro government, replacing the current ARMM.

Regional Agriculture Secretary


Makmod Mending, Jr, said a bigger budget would enable the department to lay down the foundation of a strong and dependable agriculture sector.

“We need just enough budget to sustain the momentum of the now flourishing agricultural projects in the region,” Mending said.

DAF-ARMM officials, led by Mending, had presented and defended their proposed 2015 budget in an initial regional-level budget hearing in Davao City early this week.

Mending refused to elaborate on the specifics of their budget proposal pending presentation to the House of Representatives and Senate for approval.

Mending said the proposed budget hike is intended for the development of an agricultural and eco-tourism research center in Maguindanao’s North Upi town, homeland of the ARMM’s non-Moro indigenous ethnic Teduray people, and the establishment of the Maridagao rice

experiment station, in Maguindanao.The ARMM agri chief said his office

needs additional funds for the DAF-ARMM’s climate change mitigation program, and for the implementation of the “Gulayan sa Barangay” in at least 500 barangays, and the putting up of bamboo nurseries in selected areas.

DAF-ARMM employees are optimistic of a positive outcome of the GPH-MILF peace initiative.

On Wednesday, ARMM hosted the ever ARMM Organic Agriculture Summit ahead of the celebration of the 11th regional farmers and fisherfolks’ achievement and recognition week celebration, to highlight the role of the two sectors in ensuring “food security” in the autonomous region.

Mending said the summit was meant to educate Moro, Christian and lumad peasants on the cost-efficiency and lasting benefits of organic farming.

ARMM is the leading producer of corn and carageenan seaweeds in the island.


Army officials recognize PIA-Caraga’s AFEBSBy Jennifer P. GaitanoBUTUAN CITY - Officials of the 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army have recognized the efforts of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga in establishing the Advance Forward Emergency Broadcasting System (AFEBS), a communication system designed for disaster operation in Caraga region.


1Lt Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of 402nd Brigade PA, said the best system during disaster response operations is having a good, fast, and reliable source of information.

“As your active partner during the disaster response operations, the best system is having a good, fast, and reliable source of information. The Advance Forward Emergency Broadcasting System (AFEBS) of PIA-Caraga will definitely enhance the performance of all rescuers; synchronize the efforts of all concerned units; and organize the people in the area. Congratulations to PIA-Caraga personnel led by regional director Abner Caga for initiating this new innovation that will surely save thousands of lives. To God be all the Glory,” shared Martinez.

Also, PA Ret. Col Efrain S. Oropel said the implementation of the first ever c o m m u n i t y b r o a d c a s t i n g system for disaster operations dubbed Advance Forward E m e r g e n c y B r o a d c a s t i n g System (AFEBS), “so far, is the best info-dissemination tool I have ever known. Congratulations to the leadership, staff and personnel of PIA

Caraga for being the major partner of Surigao City-LGU in implementing the system.”

The operational capability of AFEBS equipment has been tested and proven to be functional 24/7 in all weather conditions; compact and highly mobile which can be transferred anytime, anywhere in just an hour or two; user friendly (plug and play); can be remotely managed thru the internet; and highly reliable, long life design.

Meanwhile, it can be recalled that the local government unit of Surigao City has already started airing its advocacies using AFEBS during its test-broadcast around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2014.

The AFEBS installed in Surigao City can also be heard in the city’s vital locations such as bus, ferry, airport terminals, luneta park and playground and other public places.


PRC Agnor-Butuan City chapter reports accomplishments BUTUAN CITY-- Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Agusan del Norte-Butuan City chapter reports accomplishments during its regular Board of Directors (BODs) meeting headed by its chairman, retired Procecutor Felixberto Guiritan on May 15 here.

Different committees of PRC Agusan del Norte-Butuan City chapter informed each BOD members of their accomplishments for the month of April this year.

The committee on Disaster Management Services reported that for the month of April, the chapter was able to undertake three sessions on Basic Disaster Management and 143 Volunteer Mobilization Training Courses and was able to produce 84 graduates from the Agusan National High School Disaster Risk Reduction and Management council.

On the c o m m i t t e e on Blood S e r v i c e s , the chapter was able to collect 611 units of blood i n c l u d i n g t h o s e acquired from blood letting activities.

B l o o d donors are categorized

according to their type of donation as follows: Walk-in - 97, Patient-directed - 178, Replacement - 90, Mobile Blood Donation- 246.

Also, Safety Services committee presented their accomplishments for the month of April. The chapter was able to undertake the following training courses: two classes on Community First Aid, and two classes on Basic Life Support for Adult Lay Rescuers with 80 graduates each course.

On April 16 to 22, during the observance of the Holy Week, to ensure safety of the general public, the

by Nora L. Molde


PRC Agnor-Butuan City chapter reports accomplishments

HIV Infection among youth alarming; NYC calls for immediate interventions MANILA- “The rise of HIV infection among young people is ‘fast and furious.’ Nakakabahala talaga ito.”

The National Youth Commission (NYC) recently expressed this concern at the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial in Liwasang Bonifacio. NYC Commissioner Perci Cendaña said, “we are very alarmed by the steady increase in HIV infection among young people. In the March 2014 AIDS Registry, 28 percent of new cases are from the 15 to 24 age group. Isa sa bawat apat na kaso ng HIV ay kabataan.”

According to Commissioner Cendaña” the risky behavior of young people compounded by the lack of comprehensive information on HIV-AIDS, and the limited HIV counseling and services fuel the increase. Awareness is really low, studies reveal that a lot of young people, in this day and age, believe that there is a cure for AIDS.”

The NYC is pushing for comprehensive HIV-AIDS education for the Filipino youth. “The most effective way to

reduce the risky behavior of the young is by providing them with the necessary information and guidance to help them make responsible actions and decisions,” Commissioner Cendaña pointed out.

On the services side, the NYC is calling for “improved access to HIV counseling and services that are also youth-friendly, voluntary and confidential. We are also pushing for the amendment of the AIDS law to allow those below 18 years old to undergo HIV testing even without parental concern,” he explained.

The NYC is also very concerned on the proposal to make HIV tests mandatory. “We have expressed our reservation in a letter to the Department of Health. Making the tests mandatory may infringe on the right to privacy which is guaranteed by law and may lead to stigma and discrimination,” Commisioner Cendaña said.

chapter was also able to set-up first aid stations and ambulance service in major churches and bus stations in the city. An ambulance service was also provided during the PANAAD 2014 at barangay Anticala, and on April 27, a first aid station was also set up during a Unity Love Run initiated by one of the school of the city.

Meanwhile, for the period April 9 to

10 and April 11 to 12, the chapter’s Red Cross Youth was also able to conduct the two batches of training on Youth Volunteer Orientation course, Leadership Formation Course, and Basic Leadership Training to the Agusan National High School Red Cross Youth (SRCY) Council producing 84 newly trained SRCY members.


PHIVOLCS to install earthquake intensity meters in Bukidnonby Ariana Cristelle Pagdanganan

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - As part of the Disaster Mitigation and Prevention in northern Mindanao, the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), will install earthquake intensity meters in select municipalities of Bukidnon.


DFA announces hiring for Foreign Service Officer IVby Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - A joint cabinet working visit is set on May 21 here in the city to launch the Mindanao Barangay StraTREEgic Forest Program (BSFP).

Abdurraheym S.Y. Macud, Officer in Charge of the DFA Regional Consular Office here said that the Board of Foreign Service Examinations will hold the Qualifying Test for the 2014 Foreign Service Office (FSO) Examination on August 10, 2014. Meanwhile the deadline for submission of duly accomplished application forms together with the other requirements is on June 13, this year. Applicants must be natural-born Filipino citizens and permanent residents in the Philippines; not be more

than 35 years old; at least graduate from a four year bachelor’s degree course; and should have undergone at least two years employment or further studies. He or she must also be knowledgeable on economic, political and social conditions of the country and possess the personality traits essential to the performance of the duties of an FSO. They must be willing to and able to accept assignments to any post where their service may be required. To apply, download forms from

Marcial P. Labininay, director of PHIVOLCS here, during the Bukidnon Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council Summit, held recently this city, enumerated Malaybalay City, Valencia, Quezon, Talakag, Gingoog, and San Fernando, Bukidnon as their prospect locations in setting up these devices. The earthquake intensity meters will be able to give out the date and time of occurrence, depth of focus,

exact location, origin, and magnitude of an earthquake. To print out the so-called earthquake information bulletin, Director Labininay said that the device needs electricity and internet connection for it to function. According to Labininay, the earthquake intensity meters will most likely be installed in the first quarter next year.


the DFA website www.dfa.gov.ph or personally secure from main office or regional consular offices or at Philippine Embassies or Consulates abroad. Applicants must also attach a Certified True Copy (CTC) of transcript of records or CTC of diploma or certificate of graduation from college or university from which the degree was obtained, bearing the seal of the college or university; proof of past or present employment or further studies; original birth certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO); 10 pieces of photographs: 4.5cm x 3.5cm, colored with white

background taken three months prior to filing of application and with the applicant’s full and handwritten name tag in the format: First Name, Middle Initial, Last Name and extension name and signature over printed name. Two self-addressed and self-stamped envelopes marked “Priority Mail” and two original valid identification cards and a copy of each ID. A non-refundable admission fee of P500 shall be collected from those who will take the FSO Qualifying test upon inspection and acceptance of their application. For questions and clarifications, please call (08822) 724309.

Comelec skeds 54 satellite registration centers for voters in Ozamiz by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental - The Commission on Elections (Comelec), here, has scheduled 54 satellite registration centers (SRCs) for voters in the different barangays, including the persons with disability (PWD) and detainees of the city.

Twenty-eight (28) of these SRC’s will be conducted this year, and 26 in 2015, to ensure wider voter participation in the system of continuing registration, validation and updating of voters’ records before the May 9, 2016 National and Local Elections, Atty. Sylvan Gerald L. Sabio,

City Election Officer (EO) said. Pursuant to Comelec Resolution No. 9853, promulgated last February 19, these SRCs may be conducted either in barangay halls, public/private schools, commercial establishments or other public places within the city/municipality at no additional expense


to the Comelec but shouldered by the requesting party. Thus, a schedule of the SRC’s have been forwarded to the Local Chief Executive, in answer to his letter request dated April 10, 2014, and now posted at the bulletin board of the City Hall, Sabio said. Meanwhile, the SRC schedule for 2014 is at the following barangays: Gingona, May 21-22; Trigos, May 28-29; Stimson Abordo, June 4-5; Capucao P, June 11-12; Capucao C, June 18-19; and Liposong, June 25-26, Calabayan, July 2-3; Dalapang, July 9-10; and Mentering, July 16-17; Sangay Daku, July 23-24; Sangay Diot, July 30-31; Gotokan Daku, Aug. 6-7; Gotokan Diot, Aug. 13-14; Embargo, Aug. 201-21; Gala, Aug. 27-28; and Kinuman Norte, Sept. 3-4; Guimad, Sept. 10-11; and Kinuman Sur, Sept. 17-18. Cogon, Sept. 24-25; Cavinte, Oct. 1-2; Balintwak, Oct. 8-9; Manaka,

Oct. 15-16; Litapan, Oct. 22-23; Tabid, Oct. 29-30; Diguan, Nov. 5-6; Diguan, Nov. 12-13; Labinay, Nov. 19-20; and Dimaluna, Nov. 26-27. For 2015, the schedule is as follows: Pulot, Jan. 7-8; Bongbong, Jan. 14-15; Bagakay, Jan. 21-22; Pantaon, Jan. 28-29; Carangay, Feb. 4-5; Labo, Feb. 11-12; Molicay, Feb. 18-19; and Gango, Feb. 25-26. San Antonio, March 4-5; Do?a Consuelo, March 11-12; Bacolod, March 18-19; Malaubang, March 24-26; Ba?adero, March 31-April 2; Maningcol, April 7-9; Tinago, April 14-15 and April 21-22; and Catadman, April 28-30. Carmen, May 5-7; Lam-an, May 13-14; Aguada, May 20-21; Baybay Triunfo, May 27-28; Baybay Sta. Cruz, June 3-4; Baybay San Roque, June 10-11; 50th Barangay, June 17-18; PWD, October 19-20; and Detainees, Oct. 28.


ZAMBOANGA CITY - In an effort to popularize climate change mitigation and adaptation, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 did an advocacy campaign to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), barangay chairmen and academicians in a two-day Capacity Building Training organized by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration 9 (OWWA) in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-9.

PIA-9 advocates climate change adaptation and mitigation to OFWs, LGUs, academeBy Jocelyn P. Alvarez


PIA-9 advocates climate change adaptation and mitigation to OFWs, LGUs, academe

PIA Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga said “mahalin natin ang ating environment at palakasin ang adaptation and mitigation ng climate change (let us love our environment and strengthen climate change adaptation and mitigation),” as she encouraged the participants to be active movers for the protection of environment. “Magkaroon tayo ng pakialam sa climate change, huwag lang tayo maging ‘marka bahala’ (Let’s get involved in climate change, let’s not take it for granted),” Director Edaga emphasized. She posed a challenge to the participants to “care and share” for the environment and “do our share and take care of what God has given us.” OWWA Regional Director Hassan Gabra T. Jumdain said the training activity is for PESO managers, selected barangay chairmen, academicians and other concerned partners to provide the necessary knowledge and skills in the implementation of programs and services. The two-day activity, which started yesterday, is in response to the pressing concerns of the OFWs and their dependents, and in support of DOLE’s thrusts in adopting the policy of convergence with the public and private stakeholders in the implementation of various programs, assistance and interventions for its clienteles. An OFW Help Desk shall be established in the local government units (LGUs with the help of non-government organizations (NGOs) and academe. Some 200 participants actively took part in the training activity.


LGU-Bayog supports Brigada EskwelaBy Claro A. Lanipa

BAYOG, Zamboanga del Sur – In support of the “Search for Brigada Eskwela Best Implementing Schools,” the municipal officials and employees here participated on Monday in the Brigada Eskwela.

In pursuance of Department of Education (DepEd) Memorandum No. 41, series of 2014, the Brigada Eskwela is held nationwide starting May 19-23. After a short opening program, Mayor Leonardo L. Babasa Jr. led the group in cleaning the areas assigned to the different offices at the Bayog National High School (BNHS) and Bayog Central Elementary School (BCES). Some 1,000 participants joined

the yearly activity comprising 125 DOLE scholars, personnel of the Philippine Army (PA) and Philippine National Police (PNP), officials of barangays Poblacion and Kahayagan together with their respective Barangay Defense System, parents and students. DepEd-Bayog District Supervisor Manuel Almadin and BNHS Principal Danilo Ungang have expressed their gratidtude to Mayor Babasa for supporting the annual


LGU-Bayog supports Brigada Eskwela

Diskwento Fair exhibitors in Isabela City net P200T sales in 1 dayBy Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – The Diskwento Fair in Isabela City has generated total sales of P264,252.50 in one day from eight exhibitors at the town’s public market last Friday. Isabela City labor chief Engr. Wesley Tan said that the Diskwento Fair last May 16 was initiated as a non-wage benefit to workers in the private, public and informal sector to provide a venue wherein consumers could purchase wide array of basic and prime commodities of up to 20 percent discounted price. Ten exhibitors participated in the event, namely JT Merchandising, LN Merchandising, Excel School Supply, National Food Authority, Basilan

Shopping Center, New Central Square, Isabela School Supply, Daily Budget Marketing, Jeepers Copy Center, and Footstar Trading. Goods and products at discounted prices sold during the Diskwento Fair include school and office supplies, school shoes and slippers, clothing, canned goods, and selected grocery items, such as milk, sugar, noodles, and laundry, bath soap and others. The National Food Authority

activity. Both schools aim to get the award as the best Brigada Eskwela implementing schools, not only in the region but in the entire country as well. Representatives from the DepEd Zamboanga del Sur division, namely, ALS Supervisor Mr. Ernesto Tardo, Sports Coordinator Noel Sanguines,

GAD Coordinator Sarah Lumabo, and Kindergarten Coordinator Gay Apduhan monitored the conduct of the activity. Since 2004 the DepEd has been recognizing Brigada Eskwela best implementing elementary and secondary schools. (PIO-Bayog)


(NFA) also sold good quality NFA rice at P27 a kilo. However, it only allowed two kilos for each consumer to discourage bulk buying from opportunists and to give less-fortunate families to avail themselves of cheap but quality NFA rice.. Tan said that around 441 registered buyers were recorded with average purchase per buyer amounting to P599.21. “We were overwhelmed by the support of the consumers. We are expected to open at 8:00 a.m. with a simple ribbon-cutting ceremony but have to do away with it because the crowd started buying the goods at 7:00 a.m.,” he said. He said unlike the previous one,

this year’s fair was a success as they were able to manage and control the crowd. Exhibitors participating in the previous fair complained that they had incurred losses due to stolen goods being sneaked out from the busy sales persons. The Diskwento Fair was initiated by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Isabela City in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB)-9, Isabela City Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (tipc), the city government of Isabela, and the Isabela City police station.


Central 911 assures readiness of exit plan against storm surge and tsunamisDAVAO CITY,- An officer of the Emergency Response Center Cen-tral 911 assured the readiness of the city to save lives in the event of storm surges and tsunamis. Emmanuel Jaldon, chief of the Central 911 said an exit plan is already in place particularly for coastal barangays of the city classified as vulnerable to water-based catastrophes. He said the integrated evacuation plan for the city is already completed and the necessary tools like directional signs are put together to support the preparation. “This plan involves more importantly the barangays in the coastal areas which are vulnerable to storm surges and tsunamis,” Jaldon said. He revealed that 12 coastal barangays are classified to be vulnerable to these calamities and corresponding early warning devices are already installed in these areas in order to evacuate accordingly when the emergency situation comes.

Jaldon said the barangay is already responsible to install the devices while the Central 911 monitors the accomplishment of the project. He said the directional signages will guide residents the escape route towards the evacuation center on a higher ground. “We assure that we are on track and on schedule in the implementation of the plan,” Jaldon said. He cited an example based on the plan where residents from Barangay 76-A Bucana, a shoreline barangay have to take the direction towards the wireless cemetery which is a higher ground in case of storm surge and tsunamis. Jaldon observed many barangays have installed indigenous warning systems like acetylene tanks as bells, while others use electronic early warning devices. “We priorities the barangays along the shoreline and riverbanks,” he said. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)


Panabo City conducts Tilapia SeminarPANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE - The City Government of Panabo through the City Agriculturist Of-fice (Cagro) conducted a Tilapia Hatchery Seminar at Barangay Consolacion on May 12, 2014 through the request of the Conso-lacion Fisherfolk Association (CFA) for them to be equipped with new technology on breeding tilapia fin-gelings. Executive Secretary Jovito M. Glodo , representative of Panabo City Mayor Jose L. Silvosa, Sr. ,stressed that this project is one of the poverty reduction programs and encourages the group to register their association to the Department of Labor and Employment to avail livelihood assistance for business expansion. “Kining programaha sa lokal nga panggamhanan gimugna aron matabangan ang mga nanginahanglan. Aron maka dawat ug livelihood assistance kinahaglan mahimo mong legal nga asosasyon alang sa dungag kapital sa inyong negosyo,” Glodo said. Thus, a Poverty Reduction Program through Soft Loan Scheme of the City Government under the City Mayor’s Office providing a zero interest, aiming

to hel2p the needy constituents develop their quality of life through financial assistance was established, Glodo further introduced. Aquaculture Project Head Aproniano Niñeza said that he was proud of the CFA members due to their determination to pursue the project not only on tilapia production but also tilapia hatchery. He considered it as difficult because breeding fingerlings needs more monitoring and focus that is why he will do everything to help the group. CFA President Danilo Al-ag was grateful to the City Government for the unwavering support in aquaculture project especially in Barangay Consolacion. “ Salamat sa kay wala kami gi pasagdan sa gobyerno sa among pangandoy nga maka mugna ug tilapia hatchery. Tungod aning seminar mahatagan kami bag-ong teknolohiya sa pagsugod sa maong proyekto. Last April 21, 2014 during the Araw ng Consolacion, CFA just harvested 254 kilos of tilapia which motivate them to continue their endeavor in helping others who has difficulty in starting their tilapia business.(Mark Anthony G. Gellor – CIO Panabo)


DAVAO ORIENTAL, May 21 (PIA) —“Real changemakers in govern-ment are the ones who put others first before self,” says Camarines Sur Representative Ma. Leonor Robredo. “I believe we don’t need ‘great’ Filipino workers to man our government offices.” Robredo in a recent talk at the first council of Human Resource Man-agement Practitioners of Region XI, hosted by the provincial government of Davao Oriental at its capital city of Mati, cites the important roles of or-dinary workers play in initiating posi-

tive change in the government. Sharing her insights as keynote speaker during the occasion, she told the more than 200 participants from across Davao Region that they can be the vehicles for‘change’ this country needs. “As long as we know we are doing what is right… as long as we contrib-ute to the change that is happening not only within us, we have to keep on,” she said encouraging the partici-pants that they can make heroes out of themselves in the workplace even if apparently no one is watching. As stewards of the government,

HR conference engages practitioners’ to be ‘changemakers’


she urged them not to be contented in status quo. Instead, she told everyone to strive and aim for excellence. “It is time to break away from the culture of complacency and mediocrity. Com-fort zones keep us from progressing. We must innovate,” she said. During her talk, Rep. Robredo also shared how the government can incite a sea change in the attitudes of people towards public service as well as gain their trust and confidence. “For a leader to be good, hin-dipwedengmahusaylangkasimerong-mgamahusaynahindinamanmatino.Hindi din pwedengmatinolamang, kasimeronnamangmatitinoperohindi-mahusay,” she says quoting her hus-band—the late DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo, who had always believed that good governance is the means by which leaders will be gauged. Rep. Robredo said that she had learned a great deal from her hus-band’s experience throughout his po-litical career, particularly as mayor of

Naga City and Secretary of the De-partment of Interior and Local Gov-ernment. “I believe that my responsibility now is to ensure that my husband’s legacies kept alive. My role is to push for bills that will create change across the country. My battle is to push for systems,” says Rep. Robredo. “In our role as stewards of government, it is also important for us to set up system and institutionalize reforms. If exist-ing systems are not working, let us writhe them down and create effec-tive ones.” Meanwhile, Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, who values the role of human work force in the success of all government programs expressed her full support and gratitude to the hu-man resource sector for being at the forefront in the government’s effort in developing effective labor force that continually pursues for excellence in public service and governance. (PIO DAVAO ORIENTAL)

did you knowthat in 1939, there were around 29,000 Japanese in the Philippines and of this number more than 17,000 Japanese were in Davao working in various enterprises including in the abaca plantation in Mintal and Toril.


Kids dine with Mayor RiveraGENERAL SANTOS CITY -- City Mayor Ronnel Rivera enjoys his meal together with the stu-dent beneficiaries of Community Teach Project at Bula Elementary School on May 15. The nu-tritious meal was cooked by the parents of these kids, part of the supplemental feeding program of the Community Teach project. (GENSAN CPIO/Russell Delvo)


KORONADAL CITY South Cotabato -- South Cotabato is joining the 31st International AIDS Candlelight Memorial with its version of candle light-ing ceremony commemorate the victims of HIV/AIDS, an official here an-nounced.

S. Cotabato lights candles for HIV/AIDS victimsBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

John Codilla, provincial AIDS coordinator, told reporters that hundreds of health officials, people living with HIV, the religious sector, HIV/AIDS advocates and other stakeholders will gather at the General Paulino Santos monument (locally called “round ball”) at Koronadal City’s business center around 5:30 p.m. Thursday for several activities in line with their efforts to educate the public about Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.

“This is an awareness campaign of the provincial government of South Cotabato to help persons living with HIV (PLHIV) and to commemorate AIDS victims,” Codilla said.

Around the world at least 115 countries held candlelight ceremonies on May 18. This year’s AIDS memorial is anchored on the theme, “Let’s keep the light on HIV.”

Besides the candle lighting, the event will also be accentuated with testimonies of two AIDS victims, “one of whom a resident of Koronadal City who has decided

to come out to be able to help other PLHIVs and to help the public understand the illness,” he added.

“Their purpose is to reduce public stigma against PLHIVs and eliminate public discrimination against those suffering from HIV/AIDS.”

Citing records from the National Epidemiology Center of the Department of Health, Codilla disclosed that as of February, 2014 South Cotabato has 154 cases of HIV/AIDS. Eight cases were confirmed only in February.

“Most of 154 cases are men who have history of having sex with other men,” he said.

He explained further that the figure does not include seven new cases confirmed HIV positive from those screened at the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital from April 1 – 15 and one more case validated this month.

South Cotabato has already recorded nine deaths due to AIDS.

Besides appealing public participation to the candle lighting ceremony, Codilla reiterated


the provincial government’s call, especially those with risky sexual behavior, to undergo HIV screening.

“We are calling on those who are in doubt of their HIV status not to hesitate in undergoing screening because this is confidential and your identity will be preserved,” he emphasized.

For free HIV screening and other concerns regarding HIV/AIDS, interested individuals may see John Codilla at the South

Cotabato Provincial Hospital.In March the Department of

Health reported that from 1984 to 2014 the country has already recorded 17,948 HIV cases.

In the first quarter of 2014 alone, the DOH has recorded 1,432 new cases.

Based on data from the Philippine HIV and AIDS Registry most of the new HIV cases were reported in the National Capital Region, Central Visayas, Calabarzon and Central Luzon. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

ARAKAN, North Cotabato—The provincial government of North Cotabato turned over several infrastructure projects to Arakan muncipality particu-larly in the villages of Napanlahan, Dallag, Katipunan and Napalico, recently.

Town receives infra projects from provincial governmentBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

These projects include a 640-meter road concreting in Napanlahan and Dallag, making travel in the area faster and more convenient.

The project, which is worth P7 million connects the boundaries of the mentioned villages, passing through Barangay Meocan.

Meanwhile, two multi-purpose buildings worth P600,000 each were handed over to the barangays of Napalico and Katipunan.

Roweno Bonsuran and Maximo Bragat, chairpersons of Napalico and Katipunan, respectively, thanked the provincial government

for the facicilities which will now serve as venues for school programs and activities as well as for village meetings and conferences.

Also, Arakan Mayor Rene Rubino extended gratefulness to the initiative of the provincial government in implementing projects that would surely benefit residents.

“We are blessed to have these worthwhile projects from the provincial government. The people of Arakan are thankful for bringing the provincial government closer to the people through implementation of programs and projects,” Rubino


COTABATO CITY – An official of the Department of Education-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DepEd-ARMM) recently revealed plans to refur-bish a century-old school building in Sultan Mastura town, Maguindanao.

noted.The mayor, on the other hand,

encouraged his constituents to continue supporting the advocacy of the provincial government.

“There is nothing that we cannot achieve if we believe and support each other. Let’s continue to support

the provincial government through the leadership of Governor Emmylou Mendoza in their advocacy to improve the lives of every Cotabateño, “the mayor stated. (SJDuerme-PIA12/JSta.Cruz&VBacarat-N. Cotabato Provincial Government)

DepEd-ARMM earmarks P300K to refurbish century-old school bldg in MaguindanaoBy: Oliver Ross V. Rivera

ARMM Education Secretary Jamar Kulayan said on Tuesday, they have funded the restoration of the six-classroom building in Simuay Seashore Elementary School.

“DepEd engineers recommended a makeover after inspecting the building, “he said.

“The building built by American missionaries in 1914 is believed to be the oldest in the province,” Kulayan added.

Considering its historical value, the official said that they allotted P300,000 intended to refurbish the building instead of demolishing it. Aside from the restoration, DepEd-ARMM is

supporting the construction of another classroom building in the school.

The school caters to around 372 students with 5 teaching staff.

Kulayan said they are also considering the deployment of additional teachers to the school.

DepEd-ARMM in partnership with the Basic Education Assistance for Muslim Mindanao has allotted a total of P3 million to support rehabilitation efforts in at least 150 schools in the region as part of the Brigada Eskwela program. (ORVRivera-PIA12/BPI-ARMM)


DSWD-ARMM strengthens partnership with LGUs to fast track dev’t in Lanao Surby: Apipa P. BagumbaranThe Department

of Social Welfare and

Development in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DSWD-ARMM) has strengthened its partnership with the provincial government and the provincial league of mayors to spur development in the province.

The three parties recently forged a tripartite memorandum of agreement (MoA) for the implementation of the Family-Based Livelihood Enterprise cum Cooperative Program under the Pillar II component of the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA), the national government’s program and framework for peace and development in conflict-affected areas

and communities. A complementary track to peace negotiations, the primary aim of PAMANA is to contribute to lasting peace by reducing poverty and vulnerability in conflict-affected communities. Its Pillar II component facilitates the delivery of improved basic services at the community level through community-driven


ARMM hires over a thousand new teachersMARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - Over a thousand new teachers have been hired by the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) this month to address teaching gaps in the region.

Nine hundred three teachers took oath en masse Friday, May 16, and will be assigned to permanent teaching slots in at least 1,364 different schools in ARMM’s mainland provinces of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur and city of Marawi.

Of the 903 new appointments, 505 will be deployed in Maguindanao, 325 in Lanao del Sur and 78 in Marawi City. Eighty nine percent or 797 of the sworn-in teachers are women. ARMM Education Secretary

development (CDD) and community livelihood interventions to build conflict-resilient communities. Under the tripartite MoA, DSWD-ARMM shall conduct regular monitoring and assessment in all phases of the project implementation, ensure that the provisions of the MoA are followed within the timeline, monitor the implementation of CDD interventions, releases the community cash grants directly to the joint-account of the community livelihood associations with notice of fund transfer to provincial PAMANA teams, and facilitate the conduct of program review and feedback workshop of all stakeholders involved, among others. The provincial government, on the other hand, shall support the implementation of the program through the provincial PAMANA team which shall act on a supervisory role, and extend technical assistance to municipal PAMANA teams in the implementation of CDD interventions,

and in preparing project proposals and financial plans. Meanwhile, the municipal governments manages the implementation, facilitate organization on barangay assemblies to orient communities about the program and identification for priority projects, provide technical assistance to community facilitators in program implementation or troubleshooting concerns in the ground, among others. ARMM Vice Governor and DSWD-ARMM Secretary Haroun Alrashid Lucman Jr. said the Family-Based Livelihood Enterprise cum Cooperative Program targets to benefit all the barangays in the province. He said each barangay will receive P300,000 in the form of livelihood projects such as aqua-culture projects, animal dispersal, cottage industry development, and post-harvest facility.


ARMM hires over a thousand new teachers

Jamar Kulayan said 450 others will take oath on May 30 in Zamboanga City and will be assigned to schools in the island provinces of Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi. All 1,353 newly-hired teachers have passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) and underwent screening process used by ARMM’s Department of Education (DepEd) in considering applicants for teaching post. Kulayan said they opted to hold a mass oath taking ceremony to boost the morale of the teachers and solemnize their commitment to the profession. The newly-hired teachers will join the 23,000 educators in ARMM.Meanwhile, Mubarak Pandi, DepEd regional information officer, said there are still around 2,645 teaching

posts for the region to be filled this 2014. “We are optimistic these vacancies will soon be filled before the year ends, with the massive turn-out of new teaching aspirants undergoing Teachers Assessment and Competency Exam (TACE),” Pandi said. TACE, an innovation on screening process ensures competency and aptitude of new recruits. It involves set of paper examination, panel interview and teaching demo to rank qualified applicants as to hiring priorities. The present ARMM leadership puts premium on improving the quality of education in the region starting with the hiring of qualified and competent educators. (Bureau of Public Information)


Madaris in ARMM to receive financial assistanceMARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - More than 80 madaris or Islamic schools in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will get financial assistance from the region’s Education Department this school year. Department of Education (DepEd) Regional Undersecretary for Madaris Education Alzad Sattarsaid the agency has earmarked P5,000 financial support for every madrasah student. The fund, he said, would be used to support infrastructure improvement of madaris and the salaries of their instructors. “We like to help Madaris operating in the region keep up with the education standard we want to establish in ARMM,” said Sattar. Most of the madaris, Sattar said, face financial difficulty. “Pilot madaris should be at par with other private educational institutions, if not today, maybe in the near future. Once we achieve quality management and quality education, we will produce quality leaders who can lead the Bangsamoro,” he said. According to him, a madrasah must have a permit to operate from the DepEd and follow the prescribed basic education curriculum to qualify for the financial assistance. The curriculum is a combination of Islamic studies and Arabic Language (ISAL)

with core madrasah subjects like Qur’an, Aqeedah (Theology) and Fiqh (Jurisprudence), Seerah (Prophet’s Biography) and Hadith (Prophetic Traditions) and the Revised Basic Education Curriculum such as English, Science, Math, Filipino and Makabayan (Social Studies). Pilot madaris in ARMM have recently adopted the Standard Madrasah Curriculum or known as Refined Enhancement Madrasah Curriculum. (Bureau of Public Information-ARMM)

one mindanao - may 22, 2014

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