one mindanao - november 5, 2011

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]: hnb_r9pia

Northern Mindanao

Graces’ 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] [email protected]

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)

2/F 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 (SOCSKARGEN)

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],ph

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESIN MINDANAO

OUR COVER

The Salay Handmade Paper Story

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

Managing Editor ……......... ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Caraga Region

Associate Editors ……....... OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII NOEMI A. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX

RUTCHIE C. AGUHOB Officer-in-charge,PIARegionX

Regional Desk Editors …... Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Elaine O. Ratunil, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region Nora CL Molde, PIA Caraga Region

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

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

Editorial Advisers ……….... ATTY. JOSE A. FABIA Director-General Philippine Information Agency

SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMA PresidentialCommunicationsOperationsOffice

An Electronic News Magazineof the Phliippine Information Agency

Mindanao Clusters

EDITORIAL BOARD

Photo Credits Salay, people in salay

Vol. 1, No. 823 NOVEMBER 5, 2011

N A T I O N A L

contentsCover Story :

Challenge and Hope: The Salay Handmade Paper Story

Palace warns public from sale of substandard Christmas lights

contents

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Aquino says he supports respon-sible parenthood legislation

Aquino bares govt plans to prevent Filipinos from working overseas

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CARAGA RegionCaravan for Peace campaign to arrive in Manila

Robredo directs local execs to lead “all-out justice” campaign in Mindanao

Agusan del Sur naglabas ng pondo para palakasin ang produksyon ng pangingisda

NSO-Caraga asks cooperation in the conduct of reg’l statistical survey

BAC warehouse to rise in Bu-tuan City

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NORTHERN Mindanao

21

CDA targets expansion of cooperative membership

DOLE opens livelihood training center for NorMin sugar workers

9 LGU’s in Region 10 sign MOA with DENR for computerization of land records

PCGDNM tells sea passengers: avoid bringing restricted cargo on board ships

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Distribution of 2 kg. of beef highlights Lanao Norte “beef-sharing” festival on Nov. 6

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SOUTHERN Mindanao

BIMP-EAGA Ministers underscore strong interconnectivity in the sub-region

Customs to have accreditation system for media 27

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26Seaweed farming may bring peace to Mindanao -- Alcalaby Jerome Carlo R. Paunan18

PhilRice spearheads celebra-tion of National Rice Awareness Monthby Angelito P. Bautista Jr. 17

4 Saturday, November 5, 2011

So very typical of most rural towns, this 4th class municipality in Northern Mindanao, Philippines, is quiet and people, here, engaging in traditional agriculture and

fishing, live simply.


Cover Story

5Saturday, November 5, 2011


In 1987, however, clashes be-tween the New People’s Army (NPA) and government soldiers displaced the mountain people who depended mainly on their small farm lots for subsistence. People had to move down to the Poblacion, where they had no adequate food and other necessities. In the midst of this condition, civic-minded individuals heeded the national government’s call for the people to organize the People’s Economic Council (PEC) so they could help themselves. Thus, PEC-Salay was born and came to the family of the Rafisura’s: Dr. Reynaldo, then the Municipal Health Officer (MHO) and his wife, Loreta, who was then recuperating from mastectomy. Being natives of Salay, the couple felt their hearts “wrenched” when they saw some of their town mates begging for food. This trag-edy had never occurred before. Food was always available, at the very least in the form of backyard root crops and vegetables. But in 1987, even these were lost when the people left their farms and livelihood to evade the fight-ing. Providence must have guided Dr. Rafisura, one night, when he saw an exhibit of livelihood proj-

ects. He was on his way home from a medical seminar in the nearby city of Cagayan de Oro. The exhibits, which included instructional film shows, were pre-sented in the municipality of Villan-ueva by the Design Mobile of the Product Development and Design Center of the Philippines (PDDCP). One of the movies was about the process of making handmade paper using “cogon” grass (Imper-ata cylindrica exaltata). Dr. Rafisura was convinced that handmade papermaking was the answer to PEC’s search for a livelihood project, one that could solve the unemployment problem of Salay. In Salay, grass was (and still is) more abundant than anything else! “Cogon is a pest,” Dr. Rafisura said, “but if it could be made into something beautiful, something that could help our people, then we have to exploit its potential.” A month later, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) spon-sored a 3-day workshop on hand-made papermaking in Salay with trainer Ms. Elizabeth Tagaylo, a chemist. Fifty-three (53) people at-tended the course, but they were surprised and dismayed at the re-sult of the workshop: The sheet of


handmade paper was coarse like an egg tray. Consequently, only a few participants persevered to fin-ish the training. Still, 10 people decided to stick together and continued the effort. To sustain the project, all the work-ers willingly sacrificed by receiving pay that cash flow allowed. A raffle draw was made, resulting in an ini-tial capital of Php6,000. It was the DTI, especially then Provincial Director Alfonso Alamban and Regional Director Ninfa Along-Albania, who kept the morale of the group always high, enabling it to meet the daily challenges. Other agencies who became our friends were the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Fiber Industry and Development Authority (FIDA), PDDCP, and oth-er local and even foreign non- gov-ernment organizations (NGOs). Breakthrough Starting with the lowly cogon grass, the group conducted experi-ments and successfully made origi-nal formulas using fiber of abaca (Musa textilis), leaves of pineapple (Ananas comosus), sawdust, bark of salago (Wikstroemia lancelota) and other indigenous materials. The group then peddled the products and displayed them on

consignment basis at stores in Ca-gayan de Oro and even in Manila.

They also joined trade fairs and networked with any agencies willing to help them. Still, it was very difficult to sell handmade pa-per sheets per se. No one in Mind-anao knew about them or appreci-ated their environmental value. Hoping to increase sales, the group started converting the hand-made paper sheets into artistic handicrafts. This practice began after Loreta, who loves nature, took the weeds and flowers in her


garden and pressed them. Afterwards, her sister Car-men Capistrano, a local high school teacher in Salay, decorated a sheet of handmade paper with pressed flowers and leaves. She then added some writ-ings, and turned this combination into a Valentine’s card -- the first greeting card of the group. The process was meticulous and time-consuming, but the finished product did look much better than the plain sheet. This procedure of pressing plant parts on handmade paper eventually became the trade-

mark of the group. After a few months, DTI sent Jon and Eva Honculada to teach basic handicraft techniques. The couple, who composed the first Product Development Team of the group, impressed upon the work-ers the exacting rules of making straight lines and perfect angles. They also emphasized neat-ness and quality control in the cre-ation of boxes, frames and novelty items. Later, Loreta had to run the group like a business organization because its size was fluctuating de-pending on market demand. When orders were high, the number of employees had to increase. When orders were low, the shop had to take a rest. In 1990, the papermakers eventually separated from PEC-Salay and registered with the Se-curities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as Salay Handmade Paper Industries, Incorporated (SHAPII). Because the group could not raise the equity for registration as cooperative, the members opted to become a corporation although they were not sure about the con-sequences. They knew they badly need-ed a legal personality. After regis-tration, Loreta then read business


books to keep SHAPII going. The man-agement of SHAPII became professional when Loreta’s eldest son Neil -- a graduate of Bachelor of Sci-ence in Commerce and Management -- assisted her in running the cor-poration. Then her daughter Loreen, a nurse, also gave all her energy to SHAPII to improve its mar-keting and product development departments. An exporter cousin from Ma-nila, Joseph Lee, also joined the group as a stockholder and offered the facilities of his office for com-munication and marketing. Mr. Lee introduced Salay hand-made paper to the country by sell-ing them at the “island displays” of SM Shoemart Malls. His wife Julita or Lita and son Paul exerted every effort selling SHAPII products on consignment basis. It was a big brother system all along, with Joseph and Lita tutor-ing Loreta on export techniques and the practical side of running a busi-

ness. SHAPII encoun-

tered many challenges during its course of operation. Marketing was the greatest headache. Then there were problems regarding financing, crab mentality, and sustainability. However, these challenges prodded SHAPII to work harder and further improve its network in or-der to survive. Transparency, hon-esty, simplicity, self-reliance and trust in God became their source of strength. One dawn, while Loreta was tinkering with pressed flowers, she felt inspired to write the mission of SHAPII. She composed the statements


straight from the heart. They sound-ed big and too noble, yet they de-scribed exactly what she wanted to accomplish. The Board of Directors approved the draft article during its first meeting, that established SHAPII’s direction from the very start. The article continues to guide them through the years. Developments in SHAPII Export awareness came be-cause SHAPII products were large-ly patronized by foreigners in the Philippines. Besides, being handcrafted, the price range is usually not within the reach of the ordinary people in the locality. Environmentalism has become SHAPII’s most attractive feature. The love of handmade paper is still being developed locally. Several agencies helped SHAPII enter the foreign market. In 1996, the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) sponsored Neil’s participation to a 3-month seminar on export mar-keting at the Centre of the Promo-tion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI) in Netherlands. Later, the Association of Part-ners for Fairer Trade, Inc. (APFTI) and the DOST-Technology Applica-

tion and Promotion Institute (TAPI) sponsored Neil’s joining an Europe-an marketing tour and the Global Technology Search (GTS). As a result, many buyers came to Salay, producing better relation-ships and bigger orders. Amazingly, the buyers found the simple rustic lifestyle and environment of Salay appealing. They were impressed by the clean and orderly condition of the workers and their shops. “The GTS also introduced us to the practice and ethics of Fair Trade,” Loreta said, as this concept prodded SHAPII to engage in more developmental activities for its workers. It also provided assistance for the installation of electric lights in-side the homes of designers so they wouldn’t develop eyestrain while pasting tiny flowers and leaves on paper and the construction of toi-lets for the workers who pay for these equipment on salary deduc-tion scheme. Even more important, SHAPII coordinated with the German Doc-tors Team to provide a monthly 3-day medical service to three (3) barangays in Salay and holds Eng-lish and computer classes every Saturday and during off hours for its staff. Governments agencies like


DTI, DOST, PDDCP and private or-ganizations like Growth for Equity in Mindanao (GEM) and Resource Innovation for Small and Medium Enterprise Foundation (RISE) also continued to help provide assis-tance to SHAPII.

They did this by gaving semi-nars, workshops and other learn-ing opportunities for free or for a minimal fee. In Manila, Parkwood Products intensified its marketing activities for SHAPII products, not only lo-cally but also abroad. Its participation in national and a few international trade fairs honed its marketing abilities, while administration was strengthened by seminars and strategic plan-ning sessions given by DTI, DOST and APFTI. In 1999, as SHAPII gathered enough revenues from its sales, it began profit-sharing among its workers. Already, 14 of its 48 stockholders were workers. A SHAPII Multipurpose Coop-erative was organized in March 2000 with 137 members. It now operates a canteen and grocery store within the SHAPII Com-pound. The SHAPII Foundation was registered with SEC on June 3, 2000, and its first community or corporate social responsibility

(CSR) project was the provision of a high school scholarship grant to six (6) poor but deserving students who just graduated from elemen-tary. Since tuition is free in public


schools, SHAPII’s scholarship grant pays only for the scholars’ miscel-laneous expenses, provided the scholars remained within the top 15 of their classes. SHAPII also participates in the town’s religious and civic ac-tivities. It is involved in provincial and regional organizations. Today, SHAPII has progressed significantly. From a motley group of 10, it has grown to its present size of 330, enlarging its workforce according to market demand. It has become a dynamic and vibrant body. The successful expansion has been fueled by aggressive mar-keting strategy, increased produc-tion, quality control, strong value for work, healthy relationship with helping agencies and overseas part-ners, remarkable networking and, yes … prayers. All through the years, SHAPII’s workers maintain the 3 o’clock habit of praying with full trust in God. Thus, SHAPII

has created desirable impacts to the country as it is realizing its mis-sions. It has become an inspiration to entrepreneurs. For the future, SHAPII visual-izes itself to continue operating as a socially responsible and harmoni-ous business group that produces ecologically friendly and globally competitive handmade paper and related handicrafts. It also resolves to continuous-ly pursue efforts for the improve-ment of the Filipino people within the framework of the Green Econ-omy in the Context of Sustainable Development and Poverty Eradica-tion.


Aquino bares govt plans to prevent Filipinos from working overseas

President Benigno S. Aquino III said his government is carrying out multi-pronged approach to create better local job opportunities so that Filipinos will not have to seek greener pastures abroad.


In an interview over Youtube’s World View interview series on Friday, the Presi-dent said his admin-istration is trying to attract both domes-tic and international investors to create more job opportuni-ties for Filipinos to prevent them from leaving. The President cited successes that he had on his foreign trips. He noted that in his trip to China, he got between $1.2 billion or $1.8 billion worth of new invest-ments. One of the major focuses is to boost investments for the country’s manufac-turing sector, the Chief Executive said adding that China is ready to set up man-ufacturing vehicles, trucks, and heavy equipment. The President

said that Chinese in-vestors are looking for 10,000 hectares of land located in the country’s freeport zone to set up their manufacturing busi-ness. He also men-tioned the Philip-pines’s prospects in shipbuilding. “We are already the fourth biggest ship building coun-try in the world, and again, we want to go everywhere where there are prospects for our people to have jobs in this country,” he said. While enticing investors to come in, the President said his administration is also tackling reforms within the education-al system to ensure better job match ups for new graduates. He said that there are around 50,000 to 60,000 jobs available in the country but

these positions could hardly be filled up because of skills mismatches. “We have tasked the education sector to include vocational aspects in the higher and basic education, to prepare our stu-dents, in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employ-ment, for jobs that will be available upon graduation,” he said. According to the President there are also bright prospects in the business pro-cess outsourcing in-dustry saying that the BPO industry could have about 640,000 direct jobs this year creating multiplier ef-fects.

Aside from manufac-turing and BPO indus-tries, the President said investments in


Aquino says he supports responsible parenthood legislationPresident Benigno S. Aquino III renewed his support

for a responsible parenthood legislation that will educate the people and give them options on family planning methods.

The President, who was featured on Youtube’s World View interview se-ries on Friday, gave his view on popula-tion and health is-sues in connection with the Reproduc-tive Health Bill. “I’m still in sup-

port of what we can call the Responsible Parenthood Bill,” the President said. “And to think it is an es-sential aspect of government to be able to empower our people by educating them as to their op-tions and providing

those that do not have ... to act on their decision.” The President acknowledged the problems created by rapid population growth noting the country’s more than two percent annual population growth

the a g -

r icu l-ture sector could also create new employ-ments that would result to more local jobs.

Youtube’s in-terview of President Aquino is the first for an Asian leader. The World View series had earlier this year featured influential leaders like US Presi-

dent Barack Obama, British Prime Minis-ter David Cameron and European Com-mission President Jose Manuel Barroso, among others. (AS)


Aquino says he supports responsible parenthood legislation

rate. “So we’re not talking about prob-able problems be-cause of the pop-ulation question, we’re talking of ac-tual problems that are already exist-ing,” the President said in an interview

which was aired Fri-day over ANC Tele-vision and uploaded on Youtube. “The govern-ment’s position ba-sically under my watch is to educate the people, tell them the range of choices, and leave them to

d e -cide on what’s best with their family.” But the presi-dent clarified that the government will not compel the peo-ple to adopt a par-ticular family plan-ning method noting it’s up to the people to decide from all available options. The President was the first Asian leader to be featured on Youtube’s World View interview se-ries. Other influen-tial leaders who ap-peared on Youtube interview this year were US President Barack Obama, Brit-ish Prime Minister David Cameron and European Commis-sion President Jose Manuel Barroso. (AS)


Malacañang warned businessmen from selling substandard Christmas lights to the public to prevent fire to ensure the safety of the people and protect properties this yuletide season, a Palace official said

on Saturday.

In an interview aired over government-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Laci-erda said Christmas lights are covered by mandato-ry product standards and should be sold only with the product quality mark, if locally made, and with the International Code Council (ICC) certification mark, if imported. “We hope that the businessmen will observe the regulation. And on the

part of government, rest assured that the Depart-ment of Trade and Industry (DTI) is on top of the situ-ation to prevent unscru-pulous businessmen from selling dangerous wares or potentially dangerous wares,” Lacierda said. At the same time, Lacierda cautioned the public to be careful in pro-curing such products by looking for the product quality mark or ICC cer-tification. “Ingat lang po and let’s not sacrifice the

lives of our family mem-bers. Malaking peligro po ‘yan kapag bibili tayo nang mura, ‘yun pala nakaka-sunog,” he said. The DTI deployed market monitoring teams to confiscate all products that would be found not conforming to the regula-tion. The government also warned that the seller of uncertified products will be penalized. (JS)




The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), the country’s lead in science and development, will spearhead the celebration of the National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM) this November.

PhilRice spearheads celebration of National Rice Awareness Monthby Angelito P. Bautista Jr.

The month-long celebration also coin-cides with PhilRice’s 26th anniversary, with the theme “Sa-pat dapat! Bigas sa mamamayan, buhay

sa bayan.” PhilRice Dir. Eu-femio T.Rasco Jr. said during the Communi-cation and News Ex-change Forum at the Philippine Information

Agency that the aim of the celebration is to help the public under-stand the importance of conserving rice and rice farming. Set in Nov. 8,


Seaweed farming may bring peace to Mindanao -- Alcalaby Jerome Carlo R. PaunanAgriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala, on Friday, said that

seaweed farming has the potential of bringing not only sustainable livelihood to residents but lasting peace to a Mindanao region in the southern part of the country.

During the pro-gram “Communication and News Exchange (CNEX)” held at the Philippine Information

Agency, Alcala said the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III is keen on expanding the local

seaweed production, an estimated P9-billion industry, in the Auton-omous Region in Mus-lim Mindanao (ARMM).

the PhilRice anniver-sary will highlight the Save Rice, Save Lives pledge of the govern-ment to gain public’s commitment in con-serving rice to help the country achieve rice self-sufficiency in 2013. This is to encour-age the rice sector and consumers to promote and practice the sow-ing the just amount seeds, cook enough rice for the family, re-cycle leftover rice into other dishes, and di-

versified diet. A series of Save Rice, Save Lives fora will be conducted in various private uni-versities starting No-vember 8. On Nov. 18, Phil-Rice will hold a cer-emonial harvesting in its rice garden at the Rizal Park. Elemen-tary and high school students are invited to particiate in the har-vesting, games, and a mini cooking show, featuring healthy al-ternatives to rice. Various rice crops

will also be presented during the ceremoni-al harvesting in Rizal Park, the place cat-egorized as the only rice field in Metro Ma-nila. Dir. Rasco also invites everyone to participate in the cel-ebration by adopting the conscious efforts to lessen rice wast-age. Other activities for the celebration are listed in PhilRice web-site, www.philrice.gov.ph (PND/AB/PIA-GHQ)


The DA chief said that he has personally witnessed the steady transformation of the province of Tawi-Tawi into “a more peaceful and developed area in the ARMM” because of its booming seaweed industry. “Many of the res-idents of Tawi-Tawi are deeply involved in farming seaweeds for their livelihood,” he said. Relative to this, Alcala said the Depart-ment of Agriculture (DA) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is “aggressive” in estab-lishing seaweed labora-

tories in Sulu and other parts of the country in order to have a steady and disease-resistant source of the highly-priced “vegetable of the sea.” “We are very ag-gressive in pursuing seaweed farming in Sulu to prove that an area would be more peaceful if the resi-dents there have a steady source of in-come,” Alcala said. Data from the DA reveal that seaweed is among the Top 10 ex-port products of the country. The Philip-pines is currently the world’s third leading seaweed producer next

to China and Japan. Likewise, for the past seven years, the country has remained the world’s top supplier of carageenan--a by-product of seaweed--with an annual produc-tion of around 34,500 metric tons. Carageenan is a primary ingredient used in manufacturing processed foodstuffs, toothpaste, medicines, beer, and jelly. Moreover, sea-weed farming, which require a relatively cheap capital, does not require the use of fer-tilizers and pesticides. (RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)


CDA targets expansion of cooperative mem-bershipBy Apipa Bagumbaran

The Cooperative Development Au-thority (CDA) is planning for the

massive expansion of cooperative membership in this province.

Lawyer Paisalin Tago, CDA Administrator for Mindanao, said one of the agenda of the authority is to increase the total membership to 20 million by 2013, compared to the current total membership of more than seven (7) million, only. He said the CDA is encouraging cooperatives to register, again, as mandated by Republic Act 9520, citing that currently only more than 20,000 cooperatives are registered compared to the more than 90,000 registered cooperatives before the enactment of the new cooperative code. One of the speakers during the recent second provincial cooperative congress held at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol, here, Tago emphasized that putting up a cooperative is a solution to minimize poverty, reduce unemployment, and promote peace and order. He also disclosed that they are eyeing conversion of the so-called electric cooperatives (ECs) into

genuine cooperatives as a strategy to increase membership. Under RA 9520, ECs cannot enjoy the privilege of tax exemption unless they are registered with the CDA and registering will mean the member-consumers of ECs will then and there become cooperative members. Aside from the expansion in membership, the CDA will also boost and enhance its delivery mechanism and provide an enabling environment


CDA targets expansion of cooperative mem-bership

for the strengthening and development of cooperatives in the country. As provided in the Philippine Cooperative Medium-Term Development Plan (PCMTDP) for 2011-2016, the CDA will ensure access of cooperatives to global markets, provide viable linkages and networks to support cooperatives and establish appropriate quality system. It also creates the appropriate environment for partnership among cooperatives, both local and international, local government units

(LGUs), national line agencies, non-government organizations, people’s organizations, and the private sector. Such policies will ensure viable, competitive and sustainable cooperatives as engine of growth and development, Tago said. Furthermore, CDA will also promote cooperativism as the vehicle for social transformation to build strategic and synergistic alliances between and among stakeholders in the cooperative industry.

9 LGU’s in Region 10 sign MOA with DENR for computerization of land recordsBy: Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental- At least nine (9) local gov-ernment units (LGU’s), in region 10, have forged a memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), for the computerization of their land records, as of May, this year.

Covered by for computerization are the land records of a total of 13,068,398 parcels of lands, Paquito D. Melicor, Jr., Regional Director of the Land Management Bureau (LMB),

DENR-10, said. Among those which has completed their computerization of land records are the following LGU’s of Bukidnon:


Manolo Fortich, 22,199 parcels, Malaybalay City, 34,954 parcels, and Maramag, 21,823 parcels, while that of Valencia City, involving 40,709 parcels of land is still for MOA signing. Still on progress are the Misamis Oriental LGU’s of Opol, 12,922 parcels, Manticao, 4,139 parcels, Lugait, 2,918 pacels, and Naawan, 3,755 parcels and in Misanmis Occidental, particularly, Oroquieta City, for 19,627 parcels of land. Melicor said the computerization of the land records will not only assist DENR-10 in improving its land-related services, but increases their revenue collection of the LGU’s through precise land information with General Information Service (GIS) applications on property identification and valuations, including effective and efficient planning of land-based development projects. He said DENR- 10, has adopted an integrated computerized information system to improve land-related services by encoding their respective lot data information, cadastral and approved subdivision lots, in a bid to eradicate the proliferation of duplicate and spurious titles and other issues on land records management. However, since DENR-10 has limited manpower to fast track the encoding of lot data information, including cadastral and approved subdivision lots, from the cities and municipalities in the region, it has initiated a partnership with the LGU’s through the MOA. He said this is done through the establishment of the Land

Administration and Management System (LAMS), which is designed to provide effective management of land records and efficient delivery of land transactions and information services to the public. With the LAMS database and imaging technology and by computerized inspection, verification and approval of survey returns, effective land titling activities will soon be realized. Meanwhile, the LAMS will be the platform for managing the land data and information of the LMB and Land Management Services (LMS) in the DENR’s regional offices, where data may be inputted from other systems.These other systems include the Philippine Reference System (PRS) of 1992 Project of the National Mapping Resources Information Authority (NAMRIA) and the Land Titling Computerization Project (LTCP) of the Land Registration Authority (LRA), Melicor added.


DOLE opens livelihood training center for NorMin sugar workersBy Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – To help sugarcane workers during “off season,” the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has put up the Sugar Workers Livelihood Training Center (SWLTC) in the Provincial Capitol Compound, here, recently.

The first in Northern Mindanao, the SWLTCV will help the sugar cane workers when there is no work in plantations and mills, Atty. Allan Macaraya, Regional Director of DOLE-10 said during his inaugural message. He said this would help the department’s socio economic programs to develop livelihood and increase employment opportunities for the cane workers. “Part of the project cost was taken out from the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) fund shared by the sugar industries to DOLE as outlined in the “profit-sharing” scheme, instituted in the sugar industry by virtue of R.A 6982 that aims to augment the income of sugar workers,” Macaraya said. Meanwhile, Gov. Alex Calingasan, in his keynote address, lauded the two (2) sugar mills in Bukidnon—Crystal Sugar Company (CSC) and Bukidnon Sugar Milling Company (BUSCO)—that shared to the SAP fund vast amount from their profits. “While we felt the dire need, the provincial government also offered more than 500 sq.m. land area for this project,” Governor Calingasan said.

Likewise, Engr. Saturnino Escobido, Head of DOLE Bukidnon, recounted how they were able to enter into an agreement with the provincial government and heads of sugar industry to put up this newly built sugar workers’ training center in the province. “This is in response to President Aquino’s call for the private sector to engage in more public-private partnership (PPP) to fight hunger and ensure adequate food,” he added. “We, therefore, express our gratitude to the provincial government, the sugar industry players, the farmers and the sugar workers who were with us in this endeavor,” Escobido said.


PCGDNM tells sea passengers: avoid bring-ing restricted cargo on board shipsBy: Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental – Sea passengers should be at the seaport at least three (3) hours before departure time and refrain from bringing restricted/ prohibited items/cargo on board ships in order to avoid inconvenience and prevent undue delays of ship voyages.

Examples of these prohibited items are flammable liquids and solids, corrosive materials, toxic and infectious substances, compressed gases, radioactive materials and explosives, among others. Gun owners bringing their firearms aboard ships should also present complete documents, including exemption permits, if they have any. These reminders came from Commodore Elson E. Hermogino, Commander of the Philippine Coast Guard District of Northern Mindanao (PCGDNM), in order to ensure the orderly operation of sea transport facilities and safe, convenient travel of the seafaring public.Hermogino said the PCGDNM will work closely with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the shipping companies to emphasize respective or integrate commitment for a secured and safe water transport service. “We will be doing this by improving and enforcing safety standards and regulation, such as, inspection of baggage and implementation of security layers in the port and passengers terminal to prevent hostile element from penetrating terrorist act and likewise, to ensure no over loading of passenger,” Hermogino said. Other measures suggested by the PCGDNM is the adoption of the airline model in the control of passengers and cargo by local shipping companies and port authorities in order to avoid carrying of excess passengers and overloading of cargo.

Hermogino also recommended to the shipping companies the improvement of system of determining accurate weights, proper lashing and stowage of cargo to help ensure vessel stability. Meanwhile, he has ordered all PCG units in the region to coordinate with the local shipping and ship owners/operators that selling of tickets will be done much ahead of time to avoid rush and stranding of passengers and rolling cargoes, such as, trucks, buses, vans, vehicles and etc. Prompt submission to the PCG Stations/detachments of Master Oath of Safety Departure (MOSD) with complete passenger manifest, crew list, cargo stowage plan, cargo manifest and list of dangerous cargo carried can also avoid inconvenience on the part of the passengers, he added.


Distribution of 2 kg. of beef highlights Lanao Norte “beef-sharing” festival on Nov. 6

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte – A centralized distri-bution of beef will highlight the observance of the Eid Al-Adha Korban “Beef-Sharing” festival, here, on Sunday, Nov. 6.

A major highlight of the event, the beef

distribution, which will take place at the Sagadan Trade Center in Tubod Agora Market, will start at 9:00 a.m. and holders of beef coupons will be entitled to 2 kilos of fresh beef.

The celebration of Korban ‘Beef Sharing” is spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte in cooperation with Pacific Dialogue Foundations.

Gov. Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo said Eid Al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is the second most momentous festival in the Muslim calendar.

He said the Eid Al-Adha is an Islamic celebration to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to follow God’s command to sacrifice his son Ishmael.

Dimaporo said Lanao del Norte, the Land of Beauty and Bounty, is the first province in the Philippines that will celebrate this very significant festivity through meat sharing with its constituents. (PIA-10)


BIMP-EAGA Ministers underscore strong interconnectivity in the sub-region

Signing Ministers of the Brunei-Darussalam, Indonesia, Malay-sia, and Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area emphasized the role of interconnectivity as the major stimulant for socio-economic de-velopment in the sub-region. In a Joint Statement issued af-ter the 16th BIMP-EAGA Ministerial Meeting, the signing ministers from the four countries led by Secretary Gregory Domingo and Secretary Lu-walhati Antonino from the Philippine delegation, agreed that it is only through strong connectivity that the food basket and eco-tourism vision can be achieved. With this, the ministers urged all the concerned officials to priori-tize the implementation of pending transports infrastructure projects and trade facilitation mechanism. They also deemed ICT to be an inte-

gral aspect in achieving connectivity in the sub-region. To further strengthen the trans-port sector of BIMP-EAGA, the Trans-port, Infrastructure, Information and Technology Development cluster has proposed to conduct a study aiming to enhance the implementation of the BIMP-EAGA Transport Memoran-dum of Understanding. The cluster had also expressed intent to have a capacity building seminar of the ASEAN multi-modal transport. Secretary Antonino herself com-mended the accomplishments of the Transport cluster, saying that their experience in engaging the transport ministers to ensure the needed poli-cy support for the sector’s projects is something that is worth replicating in the other clusters. “I think it is high time for the EAGA clusters to strengthen the level of collaboration with Customs Im-migration Quarantine and Security (CIQS), Natural Resources Develop-ment (NRD) cluster and Tourism to ensure that identified projects and action plans are convergent and sup-portive of each other,” she added. The high-level EAGA meeting


engaged the ministers in a healthy and productive discussion on ad-dressing key imperatives and putting forward initiatives that will define BIMP-EAGA’s strategic role in achiev-ing progress and narrowing the de-velopment gaps in the sub-region. This year, the ministers offi-cially expressed their support for the mainstreaming of the local govern-ment units and state governments in the operational structure and mecha-nisms of the BIMP-EAGA coopera-tion. “Let us take a proactive stance in this undertaking, and continue to exert focus on our strategic direc-

tions for the BIMP-EAGA so we may achieve gains that shall set a bench-mark for dynamic sub-regional coop-eration,” urged Secretary Domingo. Likewise, the ministers also rec-ognized the crucial role being played by the BIMP-EAGA media in commu-nicating various sub-regional initia-tives and generating public aware-ness and support. They have also expressed support for the implemen-tation of an effective BIMP-EAGA communication strategy which was previously developed with support from the Asian Development Bank. (MINDA)

Customs to have accreditation system for mediaThe Bureau of Customs is fixing their accreditation system for re-porters who want to cover the the agency. According to BOC Commis-sioner Rufino Biazon there is a need to screen the media since they are sometimes the reason of corruption inside the agency. Customs Commissioner Biazon bared the agencys initative during his guesting at the Communication Exchange Forum held by the Presi-dential Communications Operations Office, the Philippine Information Agency and the Peoples Television Network. Curtailing the practices of bogus media or hao siao has been the one

of the priority actions of the customs commissioner.

Biazon said in earlier media in-terviews that they had reduced the number of said unscrupolous me-dia who had usu-ally covered the bureau. With the accred-

itation system in place. the activities of these bogus media will be dimin-ished if not totally eradicated. (PIA CNEX/RG Alama)


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Caravan for Peace campaign to arrive in Manila by Jennifer P. Gaitano

Around ‎200 participants comprising of Muslims, Christians and Lumads from Mindanao are going to travel all the way to Manila by land and sea to campaign for peace.


The “Lakbayan para sa kapayapaan, a Caravan for Peace” kicked off Thursday in Cagayan de Oro City. The group also stopped over in Butuan City and was welcomed by local officials led by Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr, with a short program held at the city’s Rizal Park. Ms. Norkhaila Mae Mambuay-Campong, Caravan Coordinator bared that with ap-proximately 1352 ki-lometers of land travel and two sea transfers, the caravan is going to pass by cities of Butu-an, Surigao, Maasin, Tacloban, Calbayog, Allen, Matnog, Sorso-gon, Legazpi, Naga, Lucena, San Pablo and

Calamba. “The caravan, with 35 vehicles, is expected to be in Manila by November 5, 2011. The Muslim participants will join thousands of Mus-lims in Manila who will pray at Quezon City Memorial Circle on November 6 in celebration of Eidl Adha while a Concert for Peace will also follow as part of the culminating program of the caravan,” said Campong. Mayor Aman-te, meanwhile ex-pressed his admira-tion to the efforts of the Muslim commu-nity, Christians and Lumads in Mindanao who are campaigning

for a genuine ‘All out Peace’, instead of ‘All out War’ in the coun-try.

BAC warehouse to rise in Butuan City

BUTUAN CITY -- The near completion of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) Multi-Purpose Warehouse (Phase 1) in the city is a considered a breakthrough as it will help in the conscientious utilization and storage of office supplies and materials for the City Government of Butuan.


The warehouse lo-cated at Motorpool Com-pound with an area of 180sq.meters and worth Php 1,994,606.14 will house all supplies and materials procured by the City through City General Services Office. This facility was initiated by the City’s Bids and Awards Com-mitted led by its Chair Leah A. Mendoza and funded by the city gov-ernment through City Mayor Ferdinand Aman-te Jr. The BAC recom-

mended the establish-ment of the warehouse following a study tour in Marikina City where the BAC members were made aware of the city’s best practice in procure-ment and warehousing systems. The funding for Phase 2 will be set next year 2012 with inclu-sion of computers, soft wares and training of manpower. It will be the first LGU facility here in Caraga Region to have an effective and efficient

computer system that can be compared to pri-vate warehouses. The technology of warehousing will be manned by competent IT specialists and to be trained supply officers and administrative offi-cers. The establishment of the BAC warehouse is seen to eliminate illegal vales, cash advances, undeclared balances of supplies and materials stocked at the different storage rooms of the


New City Hall Building. It will also mean big savings for the city gov-

ernment in the procure-ment of office supplies and materials .(LGU-

Butuan City/PIA-Car-aga)

NSO-Caraga asks cooperation in the conduct of reg’l statistical survey

BUTUAN CITY-– In line with the on-going conduct of the regional statistical survey in Caraga Region, National Statistics Office (NSO)- Caraga Regional Director Dr. Rosalinda Celeste asked the public for their cooperation.

by Robert E. Roperos

In an interview with a local radio sta-tion here, Celeste said the cooperation of the public in answering que-ries of the enumerators during the conduct of the survey is important as this will result to the correctness of the sta-tistical result. “I am asking the households to enter-

tain the NSO personnel whenever they will vis-it their homes by an-swering the questions honestly so that we can arrive with correct data in as far as determin-ing the region’s popula-tion and other relevant information concerning the census,” Celeste said. She added that

the result of the survey will be beneficial in de-termining the popula-tion of the country at present. The result will also be used by concerned government agencies in setting up measures to counter the growing poverty incidence in the country.


Robredo directs local execs to lead “all-out justice” campaign in MindanaoMANILA-– Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse M. Robredo has directed all local executives, particularly in the “conflict areas” in Mindanao, to lead and carry out the government’s “all-out justice” campaign by working for the arrest of lawless elements and wanted persons staying or hiding in their localities.

The DILG chief, who was with Social Welfare and Develop-ment Sec. Dinky Soli-man and Presidential Peace Adviser Ging Deles, issued the di-rective Friday during separate visits in Basi-lan and Zamboanga Sibugay to deliver the president’s message and government assis-tance to evacuees in the strife-torn areas in said provinces. During the meet-ings, Robredo said all elected local officials have sworn duties and are mandated under the law to lead the peace and order cam-paign, including go-ing out after lawless elements and wanted

persons, in their re-spective localities. “In carrying out those tasks, the gov-ernors, mayors, ba-rangay chairmen and their councils can seek out help from con-cerned national gov-ernment agencies, like the AFP and the PNP, in maintaining peace and order and devel-opment of their areas,” he said. “If local execu-tives won’t do any-thing against lawless elements and fugi-tives present in their areas, there would be no peace and de-velopment thereat. If those problems per-sist in their locality, no amount of money and

infrastructure projects would make them suc-ceed,” he added. Robredo, Deles and Soliman’s visit in Mindanao was part of the government’s re-sponse on the recent encounters between government troops and lawless elements from the Abu Sayyaf and Moro Islamic Libera-tion Front in Al-Barka in Basilan and in three towns of Zamboanga Sibugay. The separate en-counters resulted in the killing of at least 20 government troops and at least 10 law-less elements from the MILF and the displace-ment and evacuation of more than 2,000


Robredo directs local execs to lead “all-out justice” campaign in Mindanao

families in the affected areas. During the sepa-rate meetings with Basilan and Zambon-ga Sibugay provincial peace and order coun-cil members, which was attended by top local military and po-lice commanders, and other stakeholders, Robredo underscored the vital role of local chief executives in pre-venting the prevalence of killings, extortion, kidnapping and other illegal activities being perpetrated by lawless elements in their local-ities. “If a concerned local chief executive does nothing against

lawless elements or even harbors fugitives in their areas, they are liable under the law. We can file criminal and administrative cases against them such as harboring fugitives or dereliction of duty un-der the Local Govern-ment Code of 1991,” he said. Robredo also ex-plained the govern-ment’s policy of “all-out justice” instead of an “all-out war” be-ing espoused by some quarters against rogue MILF elements and Abu Sayyaf members in the region, saying that a military solu-tion, based on past experiences, is not

the correct answer to the peace and order problem prevailing in some parts of Mind-anao. “It is the respon-sibility of the govern-ment to go after and work for the arrest of lawless elements and fugitives hiding or staying in MILF-controlled areas. And it does not mean we are up against the MILF. The peace ne-gotiations with them should push through. I hope that the public, particularly the Mus-lim-dominated areas in Mindanao, would understand that line,” he explained. The DILG chief urged local chief ex-ecutives and their sanggunian members, the local PNP and AFP commanders, the NGOs and CVOs and other stakeholders in a particular “conflict area” to unite and work hand in hand for the attainment of peace and develop-ment in their locality. (DILG Public Affairs Office/PIA-Caraga)


Agusan del Sur naglabas ng pondo para palakasin ang produksyon ng pangingisdaAGUSAN DEL SUR –- Nagpalabas ng halos kalahating milyong pundo ang pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Agusan del Sur at ito ay madagdagan pa sa loob ng taong ito para palakasin ang produksyon ng pangingisda sa buong lalawigan.

Ayon sa ulat ng Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) ang pondo ay inilaan ng dati para sa programang “In-tensified and Sustain-able Development pf Aquaculture (ISDA) at ito ay naggaling sa 20 prosyentong provin-cial development fund (PDF) na nagkahalaga ng P786,000 para sa taong ito. “Ang tinutumbok naming ay makapag-parami ng aabot sa 20 million na fingerlings para sa taong ito pero dahil sa hindi magan-da ang panahon, na-kapag-produce na la-mang kami ng mga

613,000 fingerlings at ito ay aming ipinama-hagi sa 308 na mga magsasaka na may-roon ding fishpond sa buong lalawigan. Na-kapagpagawa rin kami ng walong fish cages na umani na rin ng mahigit kumulang mga 550 kilos bilang pasiu-nang produksyon. Ang mga fish cages na ito ay aming i-turn over sa LOGUFAMCO para ito ay maalagaang mabuti at magka-roon ng mas malaking produksyon,” sabi ni Armando Lagumbay, Hepe ng PAO. Dagdag pa ni Lagumbay, nakapag-

pagawa rin ang PAO ng fishpond demo na nag-kahalaga ng mahigit kumulang P300,000, gamit ang tinatawag na delayed feeding strategy sa mga bayan ng Esperanza at Sta. Josefa. “Sa kasalukuyan, habang pinagpatuloy namin ang proyektong ito, ang aming tang-gapan ay gumastos na ng humigit kumulang mga P287,400 na. Ang proyektong ito ay inaa-sahang makapagpaba-ba ng gastosin para sa pagkain ng tilapia na hindi maapektohan ang kanilang paglaki,” sabi ni Lagumbay


Agusan del Sur naglabas ng pondo para palakasin ang produksyon ng pangingisda

one mindanao - november 5, 2011

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