one mindanao - november 14, 2012

43

Upload: pia-mindanao

Post on 29-Mar-2016

238 views

Category:

Documents


6 download

DESCRIPTION

An Electronic News Magazine of PIA Mindanao

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012
Page 2: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

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

Managing Editor …….. ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao

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

OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Officer-in-charge, PIA Caraga Region

ELAINE O. RATUNIL Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X

Regional Desk Editors Jocelyn P. Alvarez, 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 Zener R. Dumaguing, PIA Region X

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

Editorial Adviser :

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

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

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

Page 3: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Cover Story

InfPRES project empowers farmers improve agricultural production

Gideon C. CorgueWestern Mindanao

Today’s issue... Wednesday, November 14, 2012 Vol. 2 No. 63

page 4

President Aquino underscores need for country’s leaders to seek God’s help to achieve sustained economic growth 9

Dani Doguiles, Central Mindanao

DOLE 12 strengthens anti-illegal recruitment, human trafficking campaign18

15

DA-12 opens food terminal in Malungon, Sarangani20 Cathy Apelacio, Central Mindanao

Another P325 Million for Nabunturan-Maragusan Road in 2014

Tagum City Council seeks to protect consumers from power disconnection

grace almedilla/ gilbert cabahug, Southern Mindanao

Muslims to mark start of New Year on November 1524 Apipa P. Bagumbaran, ARMM

MiRC to share best practices in advocacy, innovations in facilitating access to microinsurance28 Danilo S. Makiling, Caraga Region

Feature: More Pinoys at greater risk to heart attackEva Abille-Goyena, Caraga Region29

Jeanevive Abangan, Southern Mindanao

7

11

13

14

17

22

26

1ST National Congress of Regional Advisory Councils slated Dec. 3-6Alma L. Tingcang, Western Mindanao34City regulates pyrotechnics sale and use in Zambo Jocelyn P. Alvarez, Western Mindanao35

31

36

Automated processing of export papers now in full swing Abe P. Belena, Northern Mindanao38Nov. 14 is last day for exclusion of an overseas voter from NROAV- ComelecRutchie C. Aguhob, Northern Mindanao

39

Page 4: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 4 ONE MINDANAO

InfPRES project empowers farmers improve agricultural production

“Ang among dugay na kaayo nga gidamgo ang natuman na dihang among nasaksihan ang pagtugyan sa PWS ug FMR sa sa among tagsa-tagsa ka mga barangay” (Our long cherished dreams are fulfilled when we witnessed the turn-over of water supply system and FMR in our respective barangays),” says Bag-ong Mandaue punong barangay Dick Juban of Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur. Kaniadto. ang among mga mulupyo matag-tuig nag-antos pagkuha ug tubig pinaagi paglakaw sulod sa duha ka oras ug motungas sa bungtod aron lamang mokuha ug tubig apan karon naa na tubig sa among tugkaran. Ang among mga produkto sa uma dali na kaayo nga mapadala sa merkadto tungod

sa among FMR nga natagamtaman karon pinaagi sa InfPRES project nga gihatag sa DA(Before, our residents bear the burden of collecting water by walking 2 hours in the mountain to collect water but now, the potable water is already in our doorstep. Our local products will be immediately sent to the market because of the FMR that we have availed thru the InfPRES project of DA),” Juban added.

After decades of struggles and sacrifices, our long

cherished dream of acquiring potable water supply (PWS) and farm-to-market road (FMR) have finally come true.

by Gideon C. Corgue

Page 5: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 5ONE MINDANAO

InfPRES project empowers farmers improve agricultural production

The Department of Agriculture (DA9) thru its special project worth P103-M dubbed “Infrastructure for rural Productivity Enhancement Sector (InfPRES)” has successfully implemented in the second class municipality of Aurora in a counterparting scheme. For the FMR, Aurora LGU shares its counterpart of 37.7%, the DA, 12.3% and 50% from the Asian D e v e l o p m e n t Bank (ADB). For the PWS, Aurora shares 47.7%, DA is 2.3% and ADB shares 50%. M a y o r Enrique Cabahug Jr said the project which was turned-over on June 30, 2011 was composed of 28.9 kilometers of FMR that serves 2,741 households and nine (9) PWS that benefits 1,892 farmers. The DA InfPRES project in Aurora is the biggest in the region and second in the entire country, Cabahug said. Cabahug said people are now enjoying the sweet fruit of their struggle and sacrifice. The chief executive said during the project implementation phase, it

h a s has experienced disruptions due to the opposition of the majority of Sangguniang Bayan (SB) members who were not his party mates and who voted 6-4, in favor against its implementation. But on December 13, 2011, some SB members who were against the project were absent during their regular session thus the appropriation

Page 6: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 6 ONE MINDANAO

ordinance was successfully passed . Cabahug believe that passage of the ordinance was happened only thru divine intervention saying that he almost gave up his plan for the implementation of the project due to vehement opposition by the SB officials. But Cabahug said thing happened when God allows it to happen despite political opposition from the local officials ,” Cabahug explained. Aurora, with a population of 47,117 people and 9,163 households composed of 44 barangays. 24 barangays have no water system and farm to market roads, and these are: Bag-ong Mandaue, Bag-ong Maslob,, Balintawak, Cabilinan, Campo-1, Gubaaan, Inatagan, Inroad, Kahayagan, Kahayagan East, Kahayagan West., Kauswagan, La Victoria, Lintugop, Lubid,. Mahayahay,

Mandaue, Monpila, Napo, San Juan, Sapalobok, Tagolalo, Waterfall. Tagolalo barangay councilor Edward Zambo said PWS and FMR projects brought changes in the lives of the people in his barangay “Ang PWS ug FMR nga proyekto nga among naangkon nakahatag ug dakong kausaban sa kinabuhi sa mga tawo sa among barangay tungod

kay dili na kami mag-antos pagsag-ob ug tubig sa layo nga dapit ug dili na kami maglisod paghatud sa among mga abot sa uma sa merkado tungod kay naa na ang mga sakyanan nga mokuha niini (The PWS and FMR projects that we have availed have brought changes in the lives of the people in our barangay because we will no longer suffer of collecting water in the remote areas and we will no longer experience also difficulty of bringing our agricultural produce in the market because there are already vehicles that would transport it), Zambo said. Cabahug said the projects empowered rural farmers to improve agricultural production and maintain health and well-being by availing access to clean, and safe drinking water.

Page 7: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 7

ACROSS THE NATIONAquino cites Department of Agriculture and PhilRice for improving country’s efficient use, distribution of rice

President Benigno S. Aquino III cited the Department of Agriculture and the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) for leading the government’s quest for rice self-

sufficiency.

Page 8: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

8 Wednesday, November 14, 2012

In his speech read by Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, the President thanked the DA and PhilRice for adhering to the Aquino administration’s battle cry of “Tuwid na Daan” (straight path), particularly for their efforts to improve the country’s efficient use and distribution of the staple through the development of rice varieties more palatable but resistant to pests and forces of nature.

“Kung dati milyon-milyong tonelada ng bigas ay nabubulok sa mga warehouse dahil sa maling pamamalakad, ngayon dahil sa tapat at tamang pamamahala, hindi lamang rice self-sufficiency ang habol natin kundi, kung pakikisamahan tayo ng panahon sa 2013, tayo na din ang mage-export ng bigas,” the President told participants who attended the 27th anniversary of PhilRice which coincided with the formal launching of 2013 as the “National Year of the Rice.”

“Nagawa natin ito dahil may mga kabalikat tayong walang ibang hangad kundi baguhin ang tiwaling kalakaran. Nagawa natin ito dahil

sa loob ng 27 taon, hindi bumitiw ang PhilRice sa mandatong bigyan ng mahusay at sapat na binhi ng palay ang mga Pilipino,” he added.

“Nagawa natin ito dahil sa buong dedikasyon ng Kagawaran ng Agrikultura na humanap ng iba-bang solusyon upang tumaas ang produksyon at kita ng ating magsasaka at mangingisda. Nagawa natin ito sa likas na sipag at sigasig ng ating lahi,” the President concluded. PND (rck)

Page 9: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 9

President Aquino underscores need for country’s leaders to seek God’s help to achieve sustained economic growth

President Benigno S. Aquino III underscored the need to seek God’s help in leading the nation to achieve inclusive and sustained economic growth.

In his speech at the opening day of the Asia for Christ Movement (AFCM) Mission Congress 2012 held at the Plenary Hall of the Philippine International Convention Center, along Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City

on Tuesday, the Chief Executive acknowledged God’s intervention to help the country’s leaders in initiating changes in the fulfillment of their aspiration for the country’s stability and prosperity.

Page 10: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 10

“Aminin ko sa inyo ho, nung nagumpisa kami sa ating panunungkulan eh talaga hong bigay ang katapusan ng bawat araw sa dismaya na natutuklasan natin na mga problema na kailangan ayusin,” the President said.

The President said he is seeking God’s guidance in dealing the issues and concerns of the country and the Filipino people.

“At ang naaalala ko lang nga ho, siguro ngayon lalo na napatingkad, na kada nga ho sitwasyon kung saan binibigyan tayo ng kalbaryo natin o ang mga mabibigat na problema, eh talagang binibigyan natin ng pagkakataon ang Diyos na tayo’y tulungan at ipakita, number one... ipaalala, na tao ka, mayroon kang kakulangan,” he stressed.

“Sa lahat ng nangyayari sa ating bansa, ako na siguro ang unang aamin... Ito ba ay dahil nga ba sa napakagaling ko? Hindi naman siguro.... Ako ba ay napapaligiran ng mas magagaling pa sa akin? Nakakatulong po iyon... pero maski naman magaganda ang plano natin, maski na honest ang ginagawa natin, maski na talagang nagsumumikap tayo... pero hindi po tayo pinagpapala... eh wala naman rin pong mangyayari. Pero magtiwala ka at hindi mo kaya, sagot ka Niya,” the President said.

He cited the congregation’s long track record of Christian services and civic work that has inspired many of the Filipinos in their pursuit and continuing journey of national transformation.

“Nakakagalak talagang nakikita kayong lahat dito, nagkakasama sa

pananampalataya at pagtitiwala sa kapangyarihan ng pagdarasal,” the President noted.

During the event, the President was prayed over by the church leaders led by Brother Eddie C. Villanueva, chairman of the AFCM and Spiritual Director and International president of the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide.

Among those who participated during the event were Dr. Dexter Low, vice chairman, AFCM; Bishop Dan Balais, National Director, Philippines for Jesus Movement, National chairman, Intercessors for the Philippines; Bishop Leo Alconga, National chairman, Philippines for Jesus Movement, Treasurer, AFCM; Dr. Andrew Liuson, chairman, Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches, and Rev. Reuben Seevaratnam, Senior Pastor, Global Harvest, Malaysia, among others. PND (js)

Page 11: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 11

MinDA throws in support to banana council

Stressing the importance of convergence to effectively address challenges facing the banana industry in

Mindanao, Sec. Luwalhati Antonino declared strong support to the formation of the first ever banana development council in the island-region.

“In the same way that we created the country’s first river basin councils in Mindanao to integrate all watershed and river basin management, so should you create

a similar council for the banana industry,” the chair of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said in her message Thursday to the 500-strong delegation to the

Page 12: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 12

Mindanao Banana Congress.Speaking as guest of honor to

the first Mindanao-wide banana congress spearheaded by the Philippine Exporters Confederation recently, Antonino exhorted both big banana corporations and smallholder farmers to strengthen alliances among their ranks and bolster coordination with government agencies to collectively resolve industry issues.

Mindanao’s banana industry has been beset with problems such as the outbreak of the Fusarium wilt disease, the reduction of Philippine banana exports to China caused by pest infestation issues, and the consequent glut in Mindanao that forced the industry to seek new markets.

Resource speakers from concerned government agencies presented way forward actions and recommendations in direct response to the clamor of industry players for government support and intervention.

“Now is the time for all of us to work together to make these recommendations a reality,” said Antonino, adding that convergence of private and government efforts have proven to yield positive results as evidenced by successful advocacies MinDA has undertaken in partnership with Mindanao stakeholders.

Antonino was referring to MinDA’s continuing advocacy, undertaken

with multi-sectoral support and participation, for Mindanao to get its fair share from the national budget.

This led to Mindanao getting a 33.62 percent increase, from P163.98 billion in 2011 to P219.10 billion in 2012, under the 2012 National Expenditure Program (NEP). She also said that from the P1.816 trillion budget in 2013, five of the six Mindanao regions will get an increase of almost 40 percent over this year’s allocation.

“It bears to point out that in terms of national allocation for the economic sector, which include budget for agriculture, Mindanao received a whooping increase of 300 percent, from P4.7B in 2011 to this year’s P20B, accounting for 32.4 percent of the national total,” she said.

According to Antonino, Mindanao has never seen this kind of budget windfall ever, but that it had only been possible under a transparent and accountable national leadership, saying that “President Aquino has a big heart for Mindanao”.

She also called to ‘harmonize uncoordinated approaches of government support services for agriculture to ensure Mindanao’s agriculture agenda is effectively met,’ stressing that a convergence of actions towards resolving issues will yield a promising future for Mindanao’s banana industry. MinDA

Page 13: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 13

DAVAO CITY-The construction of the P25-billion, 300-MegaWatt (MW) coal-fired power plant owned by Aboitiz Power Corpora-tion located at the boundary of Davao City and Davao del Sur is in full swing and is expected to start operating by 2015. “The plant will be able to meet a substantial part of the power requirements of Mindanao which is expected to have a shortfall of 484 MW by 2014,” Aboitiz Power Mindanao Affairs First Vice President Manuel Orig said. Aboitiz had the chance

to convince students and environmentalists to see the benefits of the coal-fired power plant during a forum held at the Finster Auditorium of the Ateneo de Davao University last Friday, November 9. Orig assured the people that the coal-fired power plant makes use of modern technology and is capable of meeting environmental

standards. He said the plant is in full swing and while there are minor problems, these are manageable and won’t delay the opening of the plant.The biggest economic problem facing Mindanao today, he said, is the lack of power to fuel economic growth. The projected power shortfall by 2014, he added, is equivalent to the power usage of various cities including General Santos, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga and Butuan. “The only viable option available is the putting up of a generating facility that can provide adequate and

300 MW Aboitiz coal plant const’n in full swingby Lovely Carrillo

Page 14: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 14

reliable power supply at competitive rates and with the least adverse effect to the environment,” he said.He said Aboitiz has considered renewable fuels but “it would be extremely difficult to find and attain the scale of renewable fuels capable of meeting the shortfall.” It is important to reduce Mindanao’s dependence on hydro power, he said, although the cost of other sources like biomass, solar and wind are higher than hydro. Aboitiz is counting on the high environmental standards practiced by the Steag coal-fired power plant in Misamis Oriental ever since it started

operating in 2006. He said Steag’s actual emissions are lower than the Philippine Clean Air Act, DENR and even World Bank standards. “This coal-fired power plant is the best available and most practical solution to Mindanao’s biggest problem,” he said. Aside from being capable of producing adequate and reliable power, he said, the plant can also produce power at competitive rates. He said Davao City is also proximate to Kalimantan, Indonesia where the coal will be sourced.

Another P325 Million for Nabunturan-Maragusan Road in 2014NABUNTURAN COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE-----The De-partment of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)- ComVal has revealed the allocation of another P325-million pesos fund to be add-ed in 2014 for the on-going road concreting of Nabunturan-Maragu-san National Road aside from the ample budget allocated for 2012 and 2013. This chunk is part of the P3.5-billion pesos planned budget for the infrastructure projects to be given to the eleven municipalities of province by the national government through the DPWH in the year 2014 under their Annual Investment Plan (AIP). As presented by Engr. Francisco

Almonte of the DPWH Planning Division, their agency’s calendar year 2014 AIP also discloses the road sections to be concreted. These include the 5 km. Camanlangan Section and 1 km. Tandawan Section of New Bataan, and another four in Maragusan which are the 1 km. Katipunan Section, 1 km. Salaysayon Section, 1 km. Cambagang Section, and the 1 km. Poblacion Section. The presentation was done during the Special Meeting of the Provincial Development Council (PDC) chaired by Governor Arturo T. Uy on November 6, 2012 at the Capitol where the invited concerned agencies presented their respective 2014 AIPs. (grace almedilla/ gilbert cabahug, ids-comval)

Page 15: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 15

Tagum City Council seeks to protect consumers from power disconnection TAGUM CITY- The Tagum City Council Monday has made strides to protect power consumers from electric disconnection amidst the on-going feud between Coopera-tive Development Authority (CDA) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA) factions of the Davao del Norte Electric Coop-erative (DANECO). The City Council invited the two factions during its regular session last Monday to shed light on the reported move to disconnect electric services should consumers pay bills to either of the management--- CDA or NEA. In an interview, presiding officer Vice Mayor Alan Rellon said DANECO-CDA management committed not to resort to such move, and that it vowed to honor DANECO-NEA receipts that consumers will present as proof of payment. DANECO-NEA which was being represented by legal counsel Atty. Jeorge Rapista, gave no assurance to recognize DANECO-CDA receipts but he committed to refer appeals of the City Council to DANECO-NEA management. Tagum City Council appealed that both DANECO-NEA and DANECO CDA management would

acknowledge receipts issued by either of them as proof of payment that power consumers would show to avoid disconnection. “We hope that they will adopt what was previously agreed upon,” he said in an interview. Rellon revealed that last Monday’s appearance of DANECO-CDA and DANECO-NEA during the regular City Council session, was its second invitation for both factions to shed light on matters regarding collection of electric bill payment. Rellon recalled that both factions committed during the City Council Committee on the Whole hearing in August, 2012 not to resort to electric line disconnection, and that both would acknowledge receipts issued from either of them as proof of payment. “Both also had a common understanding that consumers have the right where to pay,” he said recalling details of the Committee on Whole hearing that the City Council held in August. However, the DANECO-NEA letter dated October 22, 2012 caught the attention of the City Council as it advised power consumers to “pay only to Apokon Substation (managed by DANECO-NEA) to

by Jeanevive Abangan

Page 16: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 16

avoid disconnection of electric service.” The letter also said that DANECO-NEA will no longer honor “all power bill payments made at DANECO Tipaz Office (in Tagum City) and other DANECO-CDA collection center/agents.”Rellon said that DANECO-NEA through legal counsel Atty. Rapista stood on its position not to recognize payments to DANECO CDA, while claiming that it is the legal entity authorized to collect payments. In a separate interview, Atty. Rapista cited the Court of Appeals Resolution promulgated on August 29, 2012, explaining the basis of the Writ of Preliminary Injunction (WPI) issued against DANECO-CDA. Rapista particularly pointed out a portion of paragraph three on page 13 of the CA Resolution, that says “We believe that if private respondents would hand the reins of DANECO to NEA, at least temporarily, while this case is pending, DANECO’s woes would lessen.” He also revealed that CDA issued an order on September 28, 2012 suspending the CDA Certification of Registration certification issued to DANECO, pending results of investigation of the Court of Appeals, and that CDA further ordered all people acting on behalf of the CDA Registration to “cease and desist” from performing their functions. “So what authority do they have

to collect?,” Atty. Rapista raised the question during the interview.On electric line disconnection, Atty. Rapista said DANECO-NEA issued no order for such, yet, but he assured that the NEA management will observe due process. “They will be given notice; they will be called to the office,” he said referring to power consumers. Asked to comment on the appeal of the City Council, Atty. Rapista said “we have to observe the rule of law.” On the other hand, DANECO-CDA legal counsel Atty. Glen Carnecer blamed the conflict over collection of electric bill payments to DANECO-NEA’s refusal to recognize the CDA Certification of Registration. He also questioned DANECO-NEA’s act of taking over the full operation of DANECO pending final decision of the court, and pending issuance of “writ of execution” that would determine the rightful management to take charge of DANECO. e also accused DANECO-NEA of “threatening” power consumers because it furnishes the Office of the Ombudsman and the Commission on Audit (COA) a copy of its Oct. 22 letter. “Why do they have to copy furnish the government agencies when it is a private entity man.” he asked referring to DANECO.

Page 17: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 17

Region 12 is 126% rice self-sufficient – DA12By Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Soccsksargen Region or Region 12 has posted 126% rice self-sufficiency in 2011, regional executive director Ama-lia Jayag-Datukan of the Department of Agriculture 12 announced.

Citing data from the AgriPinoy Rice Program, Datukan said, the region recorded 1,244,148 metric tons (MT) in more than 345,000 hectares of rice production areas last year.

This is slightly higher compared to 2010’s 1,185,196 MT which contributes to the average yield of 3.62 MT per hectare.

Given the current total rice production, Soccsksargen Region has a total supply of almost 585,844,410 kg which is 26% higher than the total demand of 466,201,780 kg for a population of

Page 18: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 18

3,531,083.Surplus was at

124,577,871 kg which summed up to 126% rice self-sufficiency level in the region.

Per province, Sultan Kudarat recorded 206% rice sufficiency, followed by South Cotabato at 125%, North Cotabato, 107% and Sarangani, 40%.

“With the rice self-sufficiency level that we have at the present, no doubt that DA’s goal to be rice self-sufficient is already an inch of our reach,” Datukan said.

Surplus production was transported to supply requirements of other provinces.

Datukan attributed the positive turn-out to the continuous expansion of rice production in the region.

This expansion, she added, was in turn due to various agricultural interventions of the regional office such as distribution of farm machineries to different irrigators’ associations and season-long trainings

that introduced modern farming technologies to the farmers as well as construction of more irrigation systems that widened the region’s irrigated areas.

Besides DA 12, other sources of data include the National Statistics Office (NSO), National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) and the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS).

DA 12 estimates foresee better rice sufficiency level in Soccsksargen this year.

DOLE 12 strengthens anti-illegal recruitment, human trafficking campaignBy Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- More than 200 law enforces, media personnel, staff, students and local officials are currently undergoing capability-building seminars on anti-illegal recruitment (AIR) and trafficking in person (TIP).

Director Chona Mantilla of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 12 said “personnel of the Philippine Overseas E m p l o y m e n t Administration (POEA) have arrived here for a series of seminars

to help reinforce our campaign.”

Seminars, which held at Fred Food Haus this city, began yesterday for law enforcement officers and prosecutors in Soccsksargen Region, which covers South Cotabato, North

Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani provinces as well as General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato cities.

Charmaine Dawn Ladot-Sonsona , DOLE 12’s labor c o m m u n i c a t i o n s

Page 19: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 19

officer, topics include an overview of the AIR campaign, Republic Act 10022 (which amended RA 8042 - Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995). as well as topics on arresting and prosecuting illegal recruitment.

Afternoon sessions dealt on modus operandi of illegal recruiters, avoiding illegal recruitment and RA 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003).

Today’s sessions was highlighted by

the signing of a memorandum of agreement between Mayor Rodolfo Gantuanco of Kidapawan City, DOLE 12 director Mantilla and officials of POEA, Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for a stronger partnership in the Campaign Against Illegal Recruitment, Trafficking in Persons and Irregular Migration (CAIRTIM).

Today until Thursday, another set of AIR

and TIM seminars is being held for at least 70 members of the media, nongovernment organizations and barangay officials as well as undermined number of students.

Coverage of the seminar is the same as yesterday’s set but the succeeding days will deal on other important topics.

Among these are: understanding the overseas employment program, role of the Public Employment Service Office; conduct of job fairs;

Page 20: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 20

p r e - e m p l o y m e n t orientation seminar (PEOS) – a preventive approach; challenges, risks, and motivations in working abroad.

There will also be discussions on legal modes of recruitment; overseas job market trends; the OFW standard employment contract; and effective implementation of PEOS.

Mantilla said, these seminars are intended to improve the knowledge and capabilities of enforcers, personnel, local officials and

students on illegal recruitment and human trafficking and improve on their activities on these issues.

Mantilla reported that from January to September this year, they have already conducted 168 AIR and TIM campaigns down to village level, which have reached at least 24,177 persons.

In October , 72 victims of illegal recruitment were rescued in Agusan del Sur. Of these, Mantilla said, 34 were from different areas of Soccsksargen Region.

“Our concern here is that there are willing victims,” she said. “These are persons who despite doubts regarding the recruiter choose to continue with the transactions, hoping that they will be able work abroad.”

However, she clarified, illegal recruitment and human trafficking in Soccsksargen Region is not alarming considering the active participation from LGUs, NGOs, and other partners.

DA-12 opens food terminal in Malungon, SaranganiBy Cathy Apelacio

GENERAL SANTOS CITY-- The Department of Agriculture (DA) 12 has opened a food terminal in Malungon, Sarangani to boost the economic activities of farmers and vegetable growers in the area.

The Federation of Vegetable Growers Association of Malungon (Fevegam) hailed the event as “invaluably meaningful” commending the DA-12

and the local government of Malungon for pushing forward the opening last week of the food terminal facility.

Mayor Reynaldo Constantino said the

facility is dedicated to his constituents to help improve their income and make life easier for them.

The food terminal, a “display and buying food

Page 21: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 21

station” is a project of DA-12 under its Agri-Pinoy program.

The establishment of the food center, according to Bai Dido Samama, DA-12 Agribusiness Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) chief is just part of the huge goal of the Agri-Pinoy program of President Benigno Aquino III.

She said the program aims to provide access to marginalized people by way of creating opportunities like the establishment of food terminal wherein farmers are assured of market and fair price value for their produce resulting in an increased and steady income.

“This is also one way of protecting our farmers and vegetable growers from being taken advantage by cunning middle men or businessmen,” Samama said in Filipino.

Malungon agri-flagship coordinator Nelson Sadang revealed that DA-12 will also be providing P200,000 in addition to the heavy-duty weighing equipment

to be used by Fevegam, the supervising food terminal caretaker.

Sadang said the fund will be treated as capital build up of the association to buy all the farm produce coming from the town’s 31 barangays.

He noted further that with the food terminal, agricultural supplies from several far-flung interior barangays will not be easily spoiled because there is a facility that will house the products and a sure buyer to purchase them.

Blaan and Tagakaolo, two leading groups of indigenous people (IP) in the area will be the most to benefit from

the establishment of the food terminal, said Isagani Palma, municipal information officer-designate.

The IPs’ chief livelihood is farming.

Palma added that the existence of food terminal will not just systematize the display and purchase of agricultural produce but also stabilize price control and local government’s monitoring.

M e a n w h i l e , Constantino believes that his constituents’ sense of industry and perseverance will lead them to become successful and progressive people in the long haul.

Page 22: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 22

Provincial Health Office holds conference on family planningby Apipa P. Bagumbaran

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) recently conducted a two-day command conference on family planning to address the unmet needs for family planning in the province.

The conference was attended by chief of hospitals, municipal health officers, and other health workers from the different towns of the province. It was also graced by other

stakeholders from both the public and private sectors like representatives from the provincial government, Amai Pakpak Medical Center, Al-Mujadila Foundation, and members of the

Page 23: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 23

media, among others. The conference focused on discussions regarding issues on family planning and reproductive health, as well as, the approaches and directions of the family planning program in the province, IPHO Chief Alinader Minalang said. The Islamic perspective on

reproductive health, updates on the implementation of the Reproductive Health Code, generation of demands through family development sessions and the role of community health teams in the delivery of family planning services were also tackled. The conference also featured a lecture on cervical cancer prevention and recognition of individuals who gave support to IPHO and to the rural health units and hospitals who showed exemplary performances in the delivery of family planning and reproductive health services.

The highlight of the conference was the signing of commitment by the participants to improve not only the provision of family planning services and the availability of commodities, especially to the poor, but also the overall health status of our constituents, Minalang said.

Page 24: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 24

Muslims to mark start of New Year on November 15by Apipa P. Bagumbaran

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - Muslims around the world is set to celebrate Amon Jadid or Islamic New Year tomorrow, November 15.

The date corresponds to the first day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar or Hijrah in which Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Medina in Saudi Arabia. In line with this, the National Commission in Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) announced that November 15, 2012 is declared as legal Muslim holiday to commemorate the significance of the day. This is by virtue of Article 169 of Presidential Decree No. 1083 or the Code of Muslim Personal Laws of the Philippines, the NCMF said. According to the NCMF, the holiday shall be officially observed in the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur. The cities of Cotabato, Iligan, Marawi, Pagadian, and Zamboanga

are also to observe the holiday per Article 170 of the Presidential Decree. P.D. 1083 also provides that all Muslim government official and employees in places other than those enumerated under Article 170 shall be excused from reporting to office in order that they may be able to observe the holiday, the NCMF said. The Civil Service commission has also issued CSC Resolution No 81-1277 dated November 18, 1981 recognizing the Islamic holiday, the NCMF further said.

Page 25: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 25

ARMM OIC Governor Mujiv Hataman (2nd from left) leads the ceremonial planting today at a 550 has Canvendish Banana Plantation at Datu Abdullah Sangki (DAS) , Maguindanao. The Banana plantation is managed under the Delinanas Development Company, a newly registered investor in the region and a subsidiary of Del Monte Fresh Produce Philippines with initial investment cost of P569 million and employing 866 local jobs. Joining Hataman are (L-R) Delinanas Senior Project Manager Engr. Miguel Portuguez, DAS Mayor Datu Akmad S. Sangki, Al Haj, ARMM Board of Investments Managing Head Sarikan A. Hajan and 6ID Commanding General MGEN Cesar Ronnie Ordoyo. (ARMM Comm Group)

Photo Gallery

Page 26: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 26

www.piacaraga.blogspot.com http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-Caraga-Updates/165374590187484

Surigao Norte names finalists for Search for Most Outstanding Teachersby Arturo M. Cruje

SURIGAO CITY --Surigao del Norte recently named the finalists for the 2012 Search for Most Outstanding Teachers of Surigao del Norte.

Page 27: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 27

Surigao Norte names finalists for Search for Most Outstanding Teachers

The award, known as “Bantayog Nan Kinaadman,” aims to inspire teachers throughout the three DepEd divisions of the province namely Surigao City, Siargao, and Surigao del Norte to enhance their competences and strive to perform better and recognize their achievements and exemplary performance in molding the students to be globally competitive. The finalists for Siargao Island Division in the Elementary Level are Analyn M. Sarvida of Consuelo Elementary School in Gen. Luna and Honey R. Tagalo of Don Enrique Navarro Memorial School in Dapa. For the Secondary Level they are Alban M. Yamson of Socorro National High School and Marites T. Penera of Pilar National High School and for Alternative Learning System (ALS) Level, Marissa L. Cuaresma, a mobile school teacher. For the Surigao City Division (Elementary Level), they are Leynette S. Guyano of Surigao City Pilot School and Janette G. Tupal of Surigao West Central Elementary School. For the Secondary Level, Venus M. Alboruto of Surigao City National High School and Ronald E. Rivera of Caraga Regional Science High School and for ALS

Level, Hermiette F. Lerog, a mobile school teacher. For the Surigao del Norte Division (Elementary Level), they are Daisy S. Donasco of Anao-aon Central Elementary School and Arnel L. Castañares of Sison Central Elementary School. For the Secondary Level, Ma. Edelyn L. Noguerra and Lydia F. Lavares of Surigao del Norte National High School and for ALS Level, Anefil L. Loayon, a mobile school teacher of Sison district and Emalyn E. Bernadez, a mobile school teacher of Anao-aon district. The finalists were chosen after the preliminary screening conducted by the three divisions and will be subjected to background check and documentation verification by an independent group of assessors for final screening. Final screening and interview by the selected Panel of Judges will be on the third week of November 2012, while the awarding ceremony is set on December 7 during the second Provincial Teachers Congress to be held at the Provincial Sports Complex, this city. Department of Education Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro will be the guest of honor during the said event.

Page 28: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 28

MiRC to share best practices in advocacy, innovations in facilitating access to microinsurance by Danilo S. Makiling

BUTUAN CITY -- A one-day sharing on best practices in advocacy and innovations in facilitating access to microinsurance will be conducted by the Microinsurance Resource Center (MiRC) on November 21, 2012 at AVR 2 FSUU College Building South, this City.

MiRC was established through the partnership of the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) and German Development Cooperation – Microinsurance Innovations Program for Social Security. MiRC Manager Ivy Gamotin-Flores said the Microinsurance sector in the Philippines has been on a steady progress through the various initiatives of the government, in partnership with the insurance industry and development actors.

“MiRC has been actively contributing to this progress, localizing best practices in advocacy and innovations in facilitating access to microinsurance,” Flores said. “We shall be looking back at what has been done and also looking forward to what remains to be in the future,” she added. For more information you may contact Mr. Ian Sabado at (085) 341-3890.

Page 29: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 29

Feature: More Pinoys at greater risk to heart attackby Eva Abille-Goyena

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is considered as one of the deadliest illnesses in the Philippines.

It’s so deadly because blood flow to the heart is restricted due to hardened or narrowed arteries. Narrowing of the arteries may be due to plaque, which is made up of fat, cholesterol and other substances found in the blood. When the plaque builds up, the condition leads to atherosclerosis. The narrowed arteries constrict the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart and if left untreated, CAD may lead to angina or, worse, heart attack. Symptoms of angina include

chest pain or discomfort and feeling of tightness or heaviness in the chest. Pain may also occur in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back, and may even feel like indigestion. Heart attack occurs when the heart muscles are deprived of oxygen and become damaged, which can lead to serious problems and even death. The National Nutrition and Health Survey conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) in cooperation with 14 medical societies and the Department

Photo Credits: Gel Santos Relos

Page 30: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 30

of Health reported that 22.5 percent or two in ten of Filipino adults 20 years old and over showed a higher risk of CAD based on the anginal symptoms of chest pain, heaviness and tightness. The results further revealed that angina based on symptoms is common among females and among those living in rural areas. On the other hand, the prevalence of CAD based on history of previous diagnosis by a doctor or nurse was 1.3 percent, indicating that only a small proportion of adults is diagnosed with CAD. This alarming problem which affects about 11,000 Filipino adults needs to be urgently addressed by the government and planning bodies to prevent and control fatal heart disease among Filipino adults, said Charmaine A. Duante, senior science research specialist of the FNRI-DOST. Another type of atherosclerotic-related disease which was included in the said survey was the peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and stroke. The cause of PAD is also atherosclerosis where a person may have a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and ischemic heart disease. PAD was determined based on symptoms of calf pain with a prevalence of 4.2 percent, while stroke was based on previous history with a prevalence of 1.2 percent. The proportion of adults aged 20

years old and over who had angina based on symptoms has almost doubled from 12.5 percent in 2003 to 22.5 percent in 2008. This alarming trend is a wake-up call, given the widely recognized body of evidence on the prevalence of these diseases, Duante added. For more information on food and nutrition, contact Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City. E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Telefax: 837-2934 and 827-3164, or call: 8372071 local 2296 or visit our website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.

Page 31: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 31

piazampen.blogspot.comhttp://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-WesMin-Info-Blitz/204864762911310 [email protected]

Want to publish your photo, news and feature release just email

11th Annual CES Conference in Zambo City tiltBy Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Over 900 members of the CES community from all over the country are here in the city for the 11th Career Executive Service (CES) Conference being conducted today (Nov. 14) until Friday ( Nov.16) at the Garden Orchid Hotel.

Page 32: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 32

This year’s conference is anchored on the theme: “ Going 4G! Good to Great, Green Governance”. This three (3) day conference will commence in the afternoon with City Mayor Celso Lobregat expected to welcome the participants. As in previous years, this year’s conference will center on excellent service by the different government line agencies through exemplary leadership of CES members. This will be tackled at the very first day of the activity in a plenary learning session. Speakers for this session are Hon. Edgardo M. Esperancilla, CESO III, of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Hon. Julius A. Lecciones, CESO III, Executive Director of the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, and Hon. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., CESO VI, Director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvocs). Day 2 will begin with a forum in Triple Bottom line of Governance for Sustainable Growth, focusing on the topic “From Jobs to Green Jobs: Transition Imperatives, to be discussed by Hon. Cynthia R. Cruz, CESO III, Executive Director of the Institute for Labor Studies of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary Ana Liza R. The, CESO II, and Hon. Severino C. Santos, CESE, of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA). The National Union of Career Executive Service Officers (NUCESO) General Assembly will be held in the afternoon, to be followed by the election of the National President

and Executive Vice President. The Regional Executive Association of Western Mindanao (REAWESMIN), this year’s host, also prepared a city tour for the guests to have a feel of Zamboanga City. Day 3 will start with a simultaneous leadership and wellness sessions with participants to be divided into two groups; the men and the women. Women’s session will talk about how to rediscover the “wild woman from within”. This session seeks to further empower the women leaders, with Ms. Sophie Sim-Bate of Carl Jung Circle Center as facilitator, while men’s session will focus on Men’s Health and Wellness at Midlife with Dr. Romulo S. de Villa of the National Kidney Institute. After these sessions, a plenary learning session on Living the Meaning of Public Service will follow with Rev. Fr. Albert E. Alejo, SJ of Ateneo de Zamboanga University as resource speaker to end the three-day activity. The closing ceremony will see the presentation of NUCESO Resolutions for approval, the turning-over of hosting of the annual conference with REAWESMIN President and Civil Service Commission-9 Regional Director Macybel Alfaro-Sahi, acceptance of the next area hosting, and the message of the new NUCESO President-elect, and the formal closing of the conference. The three-day activity is not without fun as wellness activities like Zumba Dance and Yoga for Health will be conducted in the morning for the participants to start their day right.

Page 33: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 33

Page 34: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 34

By Alma L. Tingcang

1ST National Congress of Regional Advisory Councils slated Dec. 3-6

ZAMBOANGA CITY - In its bid to strengthen the localization of youth policies and programs, the National Youth Commission (NYC) will hold the 1st National Congress of Regional Advisory Councils (RAC) on December 3-6, 2012 in Iloilo City.

Leon G. Flores III, NYC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said the National Congress aims to combine all the regional action plans under the framework of the Philippine Youth Development Plan (PYDP); identify and integrate the Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH) Communication Plan in the PYDP Strategic Plan for 2013; determine and generate the duty bearer’s commitments to the PYDP Strategic Plan for 2013. With the creation of the NYC by virtue of Republic Act 8044 otherwise known as the “Youth in Nation

Building Act”, it is mandated to be the sole policy- making and coordinating agency of the government for youth development. The said law created the National Advisory Council (NAC) chaired by the Secretary of Education and composed of various national government agency representatives. As the NAC counterpart, the Regional Advisory Council (RAC) was established primarily to localize the implementation of policies and the coordination and monitoring of programs at the regional level.

Page 35: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 35

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

City regulates pyrotechnics sale and use in ZamboZAMBOANGA CITY - to protect the public from possible danger as a result of the indiscriminate use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices , the city government, through an executive order issued recently by Mayor Celso Lobregat, regulates its sale and use especially now that Christmas season is nearing. “Mayor Celso Lobregat recently issued executive order (EO) 481-2012 regulating, controlling and limiting the pyrotechnics allowed to be used, sold and distributed in the city by licensed dealers, “ informed City Information Officer (IO) Sheila Covarrubias in a press statement. Covarrubias said the executive order “strictly prohibits the use, sale and distribution of firecrackers, such as but not limited to piccolo, triangulo, super lolo, watusi, el Diablo, Judah’s belt and whistle devise among others.” “Only sparklers, luces, fountain, jumbo regular and special, mabuhay, Roman candle, trompillo, airwolf, butterfly, all kinds of pyrotechnics (pailaw), baby rocket, sky rocket (kwitis) and other types equivalent to the foregoing are allowed to be used, sold and or distributed in the city by duly licensed dealers,” the lady IO enumerated. Moreover, the EO prohibits licensed dealers from keeping in

their stores quantities of pyrotechnic devices in excess of combined total of 50 kilograms but they can store the rest of their stock in the warehouse. Covarrubias also emphasized that “Importation of finished pyrotechnic devices is likewise prohibited.” To make sure that the EO is strictly implemented, concerned law enforcement agencies “will regularly monitor and determine the quantities and kinds of pyrotechnic devices held in stock by or in the possession of every licensed distributor or dealer,” Covarrubias held. she emphasized “for violators of the said EO, a fine of not less than P20,000 nor more than P30,000 will be imposed or imprisonment of not less than 6 months nor more than one year or both such fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the Court to include the revocation and or cancellation of the business permits.

Page 36: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 36

MisOr coal power plant Unit 2 now back on line by Jerome R. Soldevilla

VILLANUEVA, Misamis Oriental - Both units of StEAG State Power Inc. (SPI) are now are fully operational with an available power of 210MW with the coming in on line of the second unit (Unit 2 with the capacity of 105MW).

Unit 2 (105MW) of SPI Mindanao Coal-Fired Power Plant in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental was officially synchronized to the Mindanao grid at 8:58 a.m. on November 10, 2012 [approximately 15 hours ahead of schedule], following a 12-day planned preventive maintenance shutdown

beginning October 29, 2012. On November 4, Steag’s Unit 1 also came on line 10 hours ahead of schedule, boosting power supply in Mindanao. Unit 1 underwent a relatively long scheduled preventive maintenance shutdown on October 6 until November 4, 2012.

Page 37: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 37

MisOr coal power plant Unit 2 now back on line

Steag officially declared the 200MW power availability at 10: 02 a.m. on November 10, 2012. The precarious power supply condition in Mindanao is expected to substantially improve with the full capacity operation of Steag’s power plant beginning Nov. 10 The preventive maintenance shutdown (PMS) activities were successfully carried out as planned and completed approximately 25 hours ahead of schedule for both units. Carrying out the necessary preventive maintenance as planned and scheduled will bring long-term benefits for Mindanao power consumers in terms operational reliability. During its first six years of operation, SPI’s Mindanao Power Plant sustained an availability rate of ninety three point three percent (93.3%) and a low unplanned outage rate of less than one percent (1%). Despite the relatively long PMS conducted for Unit 1 beginning last

month, SPI is confident it can still achieve an availability rate of ninety two percent (92%) by the end of 2012. SPI’s power plant has two identical power generating units each with a net capacity of 105 MW each. The power station is considered as the most modern and the biggest in Mindanao on a per unit capacity. More than 8.3 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity had been delivered so far to the Mindanao grid since November 2006, representing about 20% of the island’s generation mix. SPI is a special purpose company established to build, operate and maintain Mindanao’s first coal-fired power plant. The company is principally owned by Steag GmbH which is one of the largest electricity producers in Germany and a market leader in clean coal technology and biomass power plants.

Page 38: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO 38

Automated processing of export papers now in full swingby Abe P. Belena

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The long-awaited automation of the process-ing of export documents is now operational.

This was what exporters were recently told during a briefing on updates on trade facilitiation called by the international trade group of the Department of Trade and Industry. Following the June 2012 deadline on exporters’ enrollment with the Bureau of Custom’s client profile registration system (CPRS), automation of the processing of export papers had commenced. It was explained that due to some delays in applicants’ compliance with a list of documents required to register as regular exporter or one-time exporter, those whose papers have not yet been processed were allowed to have their documents processed manually. CPRS enrollees were made to understand that those located in export zones under the Phillippine Export Zone Authority had to partner with PEZA in the processing of their accreditation papers. BOI registered firms should apply with the BOI and those in special zones like the Subic Freeport, Clark and other special zones autonomous from PEZA have to partner with their respective hosts.

Outside of the zones, Philexport was designated to assist its members and other exporter-applicants. In the process of implementation of this trade facilitation program of the government, several glitzes were pointed out. In Mindanao, an exporter from the southern region revealed that they had difficulty in getting their export documents processed via the internet due to daily power outages. Another burning issue raised is the prohibitive bank charges in paying the documentary stamp through the PASS5 in the E2M system. To date, there are already 4,982 exporters out of an estimate of 6,000 active companies nationwide who have been accredited under the CPRS, according to the accrediting groups.

Page 39: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 39

Nov. 14 is last day for exclusion of an overseas voter from NROAV- Comelecby Rutchie C. Aguhob

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has set Nov. 14, 2012, as the last day to file petition for exclusion of an overseas voter from the National Registry of Overseas Absentee Voters (NROAV).

This is in accordance with Comelec Resolution No. 9385, entitled “Calendar of Activities and Periods of Certain Prohibited Acts in Connection with the May 13, 2013 National and Local Elections.” Likewise, it has set Nov. 19, this year, as the last quarterly meeting for the Election Regulation Board (ERB) to approve/disapprove applications for local registrations, Atty. Renato Magbutay, Regional Elections Director of Comelec, region 10 said. The same resolution, however, provides that if one day is not enough for the processing of all accepted applications, the ERB will adjourn from day to day, until all the applications

will have been processed. Meanwhile, the Comelec has set Nov. 29, 2012, as the last day for overseas absentee voter who transfers from one residence to another within the same Post and Country to request for a change of address. On the other hand, the Comelec has set Dec. 6, 2012, as the last day for the Resident ERB to act on all applications for registration/certification as overseas voter. It has also set Dec. 14, 2012, as the last day to publish the NROAV at the Comelec and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) websites, Magbutay added.

Page 40: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012
Page 41: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012
Page 42: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

This is a free ad

Page 43: One Mindanao - November 14, 2012

This is a free ad

41