one mindanao - september 9

2 ONE MINDANAO Friday, September 9, 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 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] [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 (SOCSKSARGEN)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

In This Issue...

NATIONAL

• Aquino swears in Fr. Villarin as President of Ateneo• Aquino orders preparation for Philippine hosting of Asia-Europe Meeting in November • Aquino urges new PNP chief to take his re sponsibilities as a ‘personal advocacy’ • Aquino to meet transport sector amid rising oil prices• Aquino orders fiscal agencies to automate

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)• First-ever crime lab in Zampen inaugurated• US Ambassador Thomas discloses spectrums of programs in Mindanao• City Health cautions public on leptospirosis• PNP 9 crime lab receives 4x4 vehicle from city• ‘CSC calls state workers to continue “service excellence” to public

Northern Mindanao

• Malaybalay steps up drive on vaccination, deworming of farm animals• DSWD-10 stages a convergence caravan, today• Sec. Coloma issues directive for cost-saving measures of PCOO offices• Completion of Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental underway• DepEd’s 2011 National Literacy Conference anchors on peace and community development

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)

• Lack of state geologists hamper hazard-mapping•Tagum intensifies reforestation programs as Pagasa cites temperature dip by 2 degrees• Kiblawan mayor awaits biggest copper-gold mine operation, sees progress for her town•DILG Sec. Robredo: Comval apil sa 10 Most Outstanding Provinces

Central Mindanao (SOCSKSARGEN)

• Lebak officials gather fisheries stakeholders for oath-taking, dialogue• P3.75 M asparagus packing facility to rise in Gensan• Tacurongnons set for Talakudong Festival• Mga CCTV camera ilalagay na sa lungsod sa susunod na linggo• City Peace and Order Council ng Kidapawan nagpasa ng 3 resolusyon

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)• HR practioners - partners in development• Mindanao immigration bureau monitoring illegal aliens• Meat vendors assure sufficient supply for Surigao fiesta• Butuan City readies for “Clean Ground, Zero Waste” launching • Philippine Army urges applicants to take Officer Candidate

OUR COVER

Today’s cover features the

THE BONOK-BONOK Festival

2011of

SurigaoCity

3ONE MINDANAOFriday, September 9, 2011

SNNHS wins Bonok-Bonok Festival 2011

Cover Story:

by FEAbkilan

The contingent from Surigao del Norte National High School (SNNHS) walked away triumphant from this year’s Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Kara-djaw Festival after bagging the crown in the Free Interpretation cat-egory held Friday, September 9 at the Provincial Sports Complex.


Now on its 23rd year, the festival features two cat-egories - the Free Interpretation (FI) category requiring contingents to use live musical accom-paniment and the Bonok-Bonok based using canned music and introducing the festival’s new offi-cial soundtrack. This year, SN-NHS contingent

outwit other four contingents in the FI category and brought with them P200,000 as their winning prize. The Municipali-ty of Tagana-an was named second place

with P150,000 cash prize. The third prize went to the Munici-pality of Alegria that won a P100,000 cash prize. Special awards for Best in Choreography and Best in Streetdanc-

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Cover Story: SNNHS... from page


ing with a cash prize of P50,000 and P20,000 respective-ly, all went to SN-NHS. The contingent from the Municipal-ity of Alegria award-ed Best in Music with P20,000 cash prize. Meantime, five contingents from the city schools and barangays joined in the Bonok-Bonok based category to which R.C. Ouano Memorial Elemen-tary School of Brgy.

Cagniog outstand-ingly outdone the other four-contin-gents and emerge as the over-all win-ner receiving a cash prize of P100,000. Second prize winner was the con-tingent from Baran-gay Rizal in coopera-tion with B. Vasquez central Elementary School and Rizal Na-tional High school re-ceiving a cash prize of P75,000 and the third prize went to Baran-

gay Washington with P50,000 cash prize. Special awards for Best in Chore-ography and Best in Streetdancing with a cash prize of P10,000 and P20,000 respective-ly, all went to R.C. Ouano Elementa-ry School while the contingent from Ba-rangay Rizal award-ed Best in Costume with P10,000 cash prize. (PIA-Su-rigao del Norte)

Cover Story: SNNHS... from page 4


President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday sworn in the new president of the Ateneo de Manila University during the in-vestiture rites held at the university’s Henry Lee Irwin The-

ater in Quezon City.

Aquino swears in Fr. Villarin as President of Ateneo

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President Aquino administered on the oath of office of Fr. Jose Ramon “Jett” T. Villarin, SJ as the 30th president of Ateneo de Manila. Vil-larin succeeded Fr. Bien-venido F. Nebres, SJ. During his speech at the investiture rites, the President lauded the election of Villarin as university president, whom he even called as a “Man for Others.” Villarin started his first term on June 1. “Ang pagtatalaga ng pinakamataas na katungkulan sa Ateneo de Manila kay Father Jett ay isang malaking hakbang para sa mul-ing pagbibigay- buhay sa tradisyon, at pagpa-

patingkad sa kultura ng ating Alma mater,” he said. President Aquino is an alumnus of Ateneo de Manila. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Economics in 1981. “Kapag sinabi kong tradisyon, ito ang tat-ak ng husay at talino, tapang at kabayani-han na humubog kay Jose Rizal daangtaon na ang nakaraan. Ka-pag sinabi kong kultura, ito ang di-nagmamaliw na dedikasyon sa pag-kakawang-gawa, at ang patuloy na pangungu-na ng mga Atenista sa pagkalinga sa mga bik-tima ng pang-aabuso o sa mga sinasalanta ng sakuna,” he said.

President Aquino also said that with Vil-larin as the university‘s president, Ateneo will be more active in its role in building the nation. “Sa pagpasok ni Father Jett Villarin bi-lang Pangulo ng ating pamantasan, tiyak na lalo pang magiging ak-tibo ang mga Ateni-sta para makilahok sa paghuhubog ng ating bayan,” he said. Villarin served as president of Xavier Uni-versity-Ateneo de Ca-gayan. He was awarded National Outstanding Young Scientist in 2000 by the National Acade-my of Science and Tech-nology (NAST). In 2001, he edited


Aquino swears... from page 6

Aquino orders preparation for Philippine host-ing of Asia-Europe Meeting in November

President Benigno S. Aquino III has tasked the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) to organize and implement activities in connection with the

Philippine hosting of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Conference set on November 10 to 11 this year.

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a book titled “Disturb-ing Climate,” which was conferred the National Book Award for Scienc-es by the Manila Critics Circle, the National Book Development Board, and in 2002 by NAST. He was also part of the International Panel on Climate Change, a team of climate scien-tists that won the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize to-gether with former US Vice President Al Gore. The new univer-sity president is also lead reviewer of the UN

Convention on Climate Change and a member of the advisory board for Climate Change Com-mission. “Sa kaniyang mga adbokasiya para sa ka-likasan, sa kaniyang tal-ino na hindi niya kailan-man man ipinagdamot sa lipunan, talagang alam ni Father Jett kung ano ang kahulugan ng pagiging Man for Oth-ers… at kung ano ang papel na kailangang gampanan ng Atenista sa bansang ito,” Presi-dent Aquino said.

“Ito nga ang inaa-sahan nating gagabay sa kaniya sa pagtiti-mon ng Ateneo de Ma-nila sa mga darating na mga taon: na may obli-gasyon tayo bilang mga Atenista na pangala-gaan, arugain at pag-yamanin, hindi lamang ang ating mga sarili o ang ating pamantasan, kundi higit sa lahat, ang ating kapwa Pilipino, at ang ating Inang bayan,” he added. (CO)

President Aquino signed the Administra-tive Order No. 19 on September 6, mandat-ing the DFA and DOE to organize and carry out the activities in connec-tion with the Philippine hosting of ASEM Confer-ence on the Harmoniza-

tion of Biofuels Stan-dards and Application to Vehicle Technologies on November 10 to 11. In signing the AO, the President noted that during the 6th ASEM summit held in Helsinki, Finland, in September 2006, the Philippine ini-

tiative on biofuels, “Har-monization of Biofuels Standards and Applica-tion to Vehicle Technol-ogies,” was accepted by ASEM leaders. “The Philippines is a leading proponent on the issue of energy and security,” the AO stated.


Aquino orders... from page 7

Aquino creates organizing committee in prepa-ration for International Exposition in Korea next year

President Benigno S. Aquino III has created an organizing committee in preparation for the Philip-pine’s participation in the In-ternational Exposition Yeosu

Korea 2012 (Expo 2012). Administrative Order No. 18, that was signed on September 6, 2011 by Ex-ecutive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., underscored

the importance of the coun-try’s participation in the said event in promoting the country as a leading dive site and center of marine biodiversity in the world.

“In order to push the initiative forward, the Philippines shall host the ASEM Conference on the Harmonization of Biofuels Standards and Application to Vehicle Technologies on Novem-ber 10 to 11, 2011.” Under AO 19, the DFA and DOE will cre-ate an Executive Com-mittee to be headed by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs department and the Secretary of Ener-gy department, or their duly designated repre-sentatives. “The Executive Committee shall closely coordinate the integrat-

ed assistance by obtain-ing technical, financial and administrative sup-port from other relevant agencies and local gov-ernment units where the conference and oth-er related activities will be held,” the AO stated. The Executive Com-mittee is tasked to “for-mulate a work program and budget plan for the hosting of the confer-ence and other related activities; implement the work program, and supervise and monitor all activities.” It is also tasked to “call upon any official, agent employee, agen-

cy or instrumentality of the government for any assistance that may be necessary to ensure the success of the Philip-pine hosting of the con-ference and its related activities.” The Executive Committee will also “en-gage the support, assis-tance and cooperation of international, inter-governmental and non-governmental organiza-tions and private sector and entities in the prep-arations and conduct of the conference.” The administrative order will take effect immediately. (CO)

President Benigno S. Aquino III has created an organizing committee in preparation for the Philippine’s participation in the International Exposition Yeosu Korea 2012 (Expo 2012).

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The Expo 2012 will have as theme “The Living Ocean and Coast: Diversity of Resources and Sustain-able Activities.” It will be held from May 12 to August 12, 2012 in Yeosu, Korea. The country’s par-ticipation in the Expo 2012 aims to further enhance the promotion of the Philippines and sustain its presence in Korea. The President said the event will bring trade and tourism benefits as well as

goodwill to the country. “It will also enhance the efforts of both the gov-ernment and private sectors in addressing various con-cerns and issues on achiev-ing a sustainable balance between development and preservation of our marine environment (ocean and coasts),” President Aquino said. The Philippine Orga-nizing Committee will be headed by the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The required fund-ing of P70.3 million will be charged against available resources for calendar years 2011 and 2012 from the DOT, De-partment of Foreign Af-fairs (DFA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Amuse-ment and Gaming Corpo-ration (PAGCOR). (JS)

Aquino urges new PNP chief to take his responsi-bilities as a ‘personal advocacy’

President Benigno S. Aquino III urged the new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to take his responsibilities as a personal advocacy as he expressed full trust and con-

fidence on the new PNP chief’s competence to carry on the reform programs implemented by his predecessor.

President Benigno S. Aquino III witnesses outgoing Philippine National Police Director General Raul Bacalzo turnover the Com-mand Symbol to the 17th PNP Chief General Nicanor Bartolome in ceremonies held at the Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame, Quezon City Friday (September 09). Gen. Bartolome is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Mapitagan” Class of 1980 and was twice recognized for his outstanding achievements by the PMA Alumni Association. He was conferred the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology by the Philippine College of Criminology (PCCr) in 2009. In the photo are DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo and Librada Bacalzo. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau).

Aquino creates... from page 8

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In his speech dur-ing the PNP’s Change of Command Ceremonies at the Multi-Purpose Cen-ter, Camp Crame in Que-zon City, Friday President Aquino noted the dedica-tion and diligence of the new PNP chief, Deputy Director General Nicanor Bartolome, in pursuing the ideals of his prede-cessor, Director General Raul Bacalzo, as the foun-dation of change in the country’s police force. “Kay Heneral Bar-tolome, hinihikayat ki-tang ituring na personal na advokasiya ang mas masigasig pang pagtu-gis sa mga kidnapper, carnapper at iba pang masasamang elemento ng ating lipunan,” Presi-dent Aquino said. “Nananalig ako sampu ng sambayanang Pilipino, sa iyong ka-kayahan na ipagpatuloy ang sinimulan ni Heneral Bacalzo na palaganapin ang propesyonalismo, integridad at kagitingan sa buong hanay ng kapu-lisan…huwag na huwag mong bibiguin ang ating mga boss,” the President added. The Chief Execu-tive also bared the gov-ernment’s efforts to up-grade the capabilities of

the country’s security forces in terms of equip-ment, artillery and other resources that will boost their morale to effective-ly perform their duties. “Malinaw po ang nais nating mangyari sa kapulisan at kasundalu-han, sa abot ng ating makakaya, itinataas natin ang kaledad ng kanilang kakayahan, armas at iba pang pangangailangan… dahil batid nating susi ito para magampanan nila ang kanilang mga tung-kulin sa pinaka-epekti-bong paraan,” President Aquino said. The 54-year-old Bartolome was the 17th to be appointed chief of the 140,000-strong na-tional police force. A member of the Philippine Military Academy Mapi-tagan Class of 1980, he served most of his junior years as a field operator in Central Mindanao. Fresh from the Acad-emy as a young Lieuten-ant, Bartolome saw ac-tion as Platoon Leader with the 54th Philippine Constabulary (PC) Batal-lion in Maguindanao and with the 441st PC Com-pany in Lanao del Norte from 1980 to 1982, and later as Executive Officer of the 457th PC Company

in North Cotabato, Intel-ligence and Operations Officer of the Cotabato Metrodiscom until 1984. For two years in a row, 1983 and 1984, Bartolome was chosen PC Junior Officer of the year in Central Mindanao and PC Junior Officer of the Year (nationwide) in 1985. In all his 11 years of combat duty in Mind-anao, Bartolome earned ten Military Merit Med-als, seven Military Com-mendations Medals, 17 Medalya ng Kagalingan, a Bronze Cross Medal for bravery, two Medalya ng Kadakilaan for hero-ism, the Mindanao-Sulu Campaign Medal and the Anti-Dissident Campaign Medal. He served as PNP Spokesperson and publi-cist to three Chiefs of the PNP from 1999 to 2001 before assuming other staff assignments the next four years. Bartolome was born in Gerona, Tarlac on March 16, 1957, he is married to pathologist Dr. Noemia Bartolome of the Department of Health, a union blessed with two children, Nicar Noemi and Nicanor III. (JCL)

Aquino urges... from page 9


Aquino to meet transport sector amid rising oil prices

“The aim of the meeting is … for the President to hear their concerns,” Valte told the media in a briefing in Malacanang on Friday. Valte said the De-partment of Energy is the lead coordinator for the meeting and the Palace is waiting for the details

and confirmation of the date of the meeting. Proponents want the meeting to take place next week just before the President embarks on trips to US and Japan, Valte said adding the DOE is already checking the President’s schedule. Valte said that the

transport sector may also raise the issue of their fare increase, as the group has requested.Valte also noted the suc-cess of the Pantawid Pasada program saying that the transport sector didn’t ask for additional fare before the recent oil price increases. (AS)

President Benigno Aquino III wants to meet the transport sector to know their concerns in the midst of continuous in-crease in petroleum prices, Deputy presidential spokesper-

son Abigail Valte said on Friday.

Aquino orders fiscal agencies to automate

President Benigno S. Aquino III has ordered the Commission on Audit (COA), the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Finance (DoF) to automate

their financial management systems in order to improve financial control and accountability on public funds.

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said on Friday that Executive Order No. 55, which the President signed on Sep-tember 6, aims to direct the integration and auto-mation of all government financial management

systems to make them more effective. “This directive re-flects the importance the President accords to promoting transparency, accountability and good governance,” Ochoa ex-plained.

He stressed that the creation of a govern-ment integrated financial management information systems (GIFMIS) pro-vides for a more trans-parent and effective way of monitoring the dis-bursement and appropri-

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ation of public funds. “This integrated system will, among oth-ers, allow greater finan-cial management and control at the oversight and agency levels, en-sure stricter compliance of the budget to appro-priation laws, significant-ly improve Treasury cash management, and facili-tate keeping of general accounts of government and management re-porting at various levels of government,” Ochoa pointed out. The Executive Sec-retary said the creation of the GIFMIS paves way for the generation of vi-tal information on any and all aspects of gov-ernment financial trans-actions, which can be made accessible to the public through the inter-net. A memorandum of agreement (MOA) was entered into by and among the key oversight agencies of the govern-ment namely, the COA, DBM, DoF and the Bu-reau of the Treasury (BTr), which created the Steering Committee on Cooperation to Foster the Development of the GIF-

MIS and to implement the Public Financial Man-agement (PFM) Reforms Roadmap. “The PFM Com-mittee has already been directed to de-vise a five-year plan for the development and implementation of an integrated financial management informa-tion system that links national government agencies with the COA, DBM and BTr to enable the generation of com-prehensive, accurate, reliable and timely consolidated financial status reports for the oversight and the im-plementing agencies,” Ochoa said. The presidential issuance, according to Ochoa, also tasks the PFM team to achieve within the term of the current administration the completion and in-stallation of the follow-ing: • a GIFMIS which shall enable real-time, online accounting, monitor-ing and control of ob-ligations and disburse-ments and their direct links to cash manage-ment;

• a Treasury Single Ac-count (TSA) that pro-vides BTr a more ef-fective way of cash management and ra-tionalizing agency bank accounts; • an efficient budget re-lease system with pre-dictable and stream-lined allotment and cash release programs throughout the year to support the operations of implementing agen-cies based on reliable cash forecasting and programming by DBM and BTr; • regular in-year report-ing system on the status of budget execution and timely year-end audit re-porting of agency financial and physical operations, which will be used in the budget preparation pro-cess, the Congressional debate on agency budgets and performance, and the public’s participation in the budget process; and • systematic re-cording and reporting of all liabilities of govern-ment entities, including real and contingent li-abilities, to enable the national government to manage its financial ex-posure.

Aquino orders... from page 11


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First-ever crime lab in Zampen inaugurated

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) – The Philippine National Police got a very important capability and facility upgrade with the inauguration of the P14 million crime laboratory, in partnership with the United States Government, inside the historic Camp Eduardo Batalla, along RT Lim

by Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas personally inaugurated the facility together with Mayor Celso Lobregat, PNP 9 Re-gional Director General El-pidio de Asis, and key PNP officials in the region. Thomas said the proj-ect is one of the unique accomplishments of their government as it is sure to improve the police’s capa-bilities. He added that there is a very dire need of experts that will help solve cases to

bring justice to the victims. Mayor Lobregat, on his part, agreed with Thom-as saying the state-of the-art facility will help police authorities in properly solv-ing the criminal cases. “With the crime lab, Zamboanga City now has Crime Scene Investigation (CSI)”, the mayor said. Lobregat expressed his gratitude to the US Gov-ernment, thru Amb. Thomas for the project, manifesting US-Philippine partnership.

Chief Supt. Lorlie Ar-royo, the designated crime lab director, also thanked Thomas for his efforts in realizing the facility in the city as it will help investiga-tors hasten the resolution of criminal cases not just in the city, but the whole region. Amb. Thomas com-mended all the men and women who are behind the success of the project. (JPA/MVC/PIA9-Zambo City, with news from Non-ong Santiago)

US Ambassador Thomas discloses spectrums of programs in MindanaoPAGADIAN CITY, September 9 (PIA) – US Ambassador to the Philip-pines Harry K. Thomas Jr. on Thursday gave an update to the business and industry leaders , government policy makers and stakeholders on the programs and partnerships between the United States and Philippines.

by Gideon C. Corgue


US Ambassador... from page 13

Keynoting the 20th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBiz-con’s) opening ceremo-ny Thomas said the US embassy has variety of programs and partrner-ships in Mindanao es-pecially in those areas affected by conflict. For the past four (4) months, he sent 5 teams in Mindanao rep-resenting 10 different US agencies to consult some of the conflict –af-fected families and ask what they need and ob-stacles they faced. The teams Thom-as said made series of consultations in conflict- affected areas in Mind-anao to address issues and concerns. “In Jolo, we asked questions and listen to Muslim women and religious leaders . In Marawi, we heard the words of city officials and university profes-sors, and in Cotabato, the officials, barangay captains and civil so-cieties in Autonomous

Region in Muslim Min-danao (ARMM) shared their views and percep-tions,” Thomas said. The Ambasaador said that the teams have found out that there were three concerns raised by the conflict- affected families, namely: first, the universal desire for consistent reliable secu-rity so that the teachers can reach their respec-tive schools will not be harmed by rebels; sec-ond, the need for im-proved governments- that elections should not be a time of violence or vote buying and that those who will cast their ballots can vote without intimidation; and thirdly, the need for a broader opportunity to children of Mindanao by provid-ing good education. Acknowledging the long-term partnerships between the two (2) countries, Thomas said the US government sup-ports peace process with the Moro Islamic Libera-tion Front (MILF) gueril-

las saying that it will help bring peace and stability in the region. “We con-tinue to partner in with the programs of MILF rebels and we support the AFP and PNP’s on-going efforts to confront transnational terrorists and even those who are in conflict in Mindanao/” Thomas added. Thomas said the US government con-tinue giving support to Mindanao by also pro-viding solar power and computers to remote ar-eas, etc. “We look to you to man good governance to your local leaders and institutions,” Thom-as said saying that good governments is pre-req-uisite to partnerships. The US Ambas-sador congratulated Pagadian City thru the Pagadian– Zamboan-ga del Sur Chamber of Commerce and Indus-try Foundation, Inc. for successfully hosting the MinBizcon. (JPA/GCC/PIA9-Pagadian)


City Health cautions public on leptospirosis

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) - - The City Health Office (CHO) called on public to be wary of flood water-borne disease such as Leptospirosis which per CHO report has already affected 20 individuals since January of this year, of which three have died.

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez

Richard Aliangan, City Information Officer in a press statement said this bacterial infection has affected at least four of the city’s barangays-Labuan, Recodo, San Jose and Limpapa. Aliangan said, City Health Officer Rodelin Ag-bulos warns the public on the threat of the disease which can lead to kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, and respiratory distress and worst, can even lead to death if not detected and treated ear-ly. Although the disease is far from the epidemic level, CHO advises public

to be cautious especially during rainy season. Leptospirosis can be acquired through ex-posure to water contami-nated with animal urine in-fected with bacteria of the genus Leptospira. “Although rodents are the most known car-riers, cattle, pigs, horses, dogs, and wild animals can also be source of the bacteria if infected,” the health officer said. The press statement reads: “often referred as “occupational disease” since it usually victimizes persons whose work re-quires exposure and con-tact to animals and wet

environment like farmers, sewer workers, veterinar-ians, fish workers, dairy farmers or military per-sonnel, bacteria can be transmitted to a person or animals through mucosal surfaces such as the eyes or nose, or with broken skin like wounds.” Person infected with the disease may exhibit symptoms like high fever, severe headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting and jaundice or in lay-man’s description-yellow skin and eyes. Other symptoms in-clude red eyes, abdominal pain diarrhea and rashes. (JPA/PIA 9-Zambo City)

PNP 9 crime lab receives 4x4 vehicle from city

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) - - To boost mobility of the Philippine National Police’s Regional Crime Laboratory personnel and contribute to the enhancement of service to public, the city government turned over to PNP Crime Lab a 4x4 vehicle yesterday.


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Mayor Celso Lobre-gat personally turned over the vehicle to PNP Crime Lab Director PCSupt. Lor-lie Arroyo and Regional Crime Lab Chief PSupt. Solomon Segundo. In a press statement, City Information Officer Sheila Covarrubias said the donation of the vehicle forms part of the city gov-ernment’s commitment to aggressively continue

support and assistance to law enforcement agencies primarily aimed to sustain peace and security. Covarrubias said the reconditioned vehicle cost the government close to P400, 000. “A few months back, the city government also turned over three 4x4 jeeps-all off road vehicles that are capable on and off paved or gravel sur-

face to police stations in barangays Vitali, Curuan and Sangali,” Covarrubias said. Covarrubias shared “Lobregat vowed to con-tinuously assist and sup-port the needs of the police and other law en-forcement agencies for the purpose of ensuring a sustained peace and or-der in Zamboanga.” (JPA/PIA 9-Zambo City)

PNP 9 crime lab... from page 15

CSC calls state workers to continue “service excellence” to publicZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) - - The Civil Service Commission (CSC) here called on civil servants to continue giving “service excellence” to the public at “full speed.”


CSC said state em-ployees should at all times promote and observe Re-sponsive, Accessible, Courteous and Effective (R.A.C.E) public service. The call was made as the Commission celebrates its month-long 111th anni-versary this September. CSC Public Assis-tance and Liason Division Chief Maria Asuncion Tan said this year’s celebration is anchored on President Benigno Aquino III’s call for reform, daang matuwid

and on his pledged to im-plement change in govern-ment. With the theme “Championing R.A.C.E.: Public Service Excellence at Full Speed,” the theme urges civil sevants nation-wide to respond to the call for change and be servant-heroes (lingcod bayani). The celebration aims to showcase and celebrate reforms and milestones of government agencies as they fulfill their respective mandates.

CSC has lined up several activities for the celebration to include Hon-or Awards Program, Rites for the 2011 Presidential Lingkod BayaN, Dangal ng Bayan and CSC Pagasa Award, R.A.C.E to Serve Fun Run, photography con-test, government chorale competition, essay writing contest, digital book cov-er contest and Diskwento para sa kawani trade fair and a lot more activities.(JPA/PIA 9-Zambo City)


Malaybalay steps up drive on vaccination, deworming of farm animalsMALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, Sept. 9 (PIA) – The city government, here, has announced the free vaccination and deworming, as well, as distribution of multivi-tamins for farm animals, in several barangays of the city, this coming Sept. 13-28. Done through the City Veterinary Office (CVO), the services will take place in barangays Imbayao, Ca-bangahan, Bangcud, Ma-ligaya and Miglamin, all in Malaybalay City. Mayor Ignacio Zubiri said this endeavor will help prevent and control diseas-es affecting livestock raised for food or kept for use, like cattle, dairy cattle, goats, hogs, horses, domesticated carabaos or water buffalos. Dr. Mitchelle

Miquiabas, City Veterinarian, likewise, said the project would address farmers’ problems on diseases, such as, Hog Cholera for pigs and Hemorrhagic Septicemia for carabao and cattle. These two (2) diseas-es are fatal that commonly affects farm animals, espe-cially, this rainy season. “With the Department of Agriculture’s support, the city government allotted huge amounts for the vac-cines and vitamins costs for

Malaybalay’s 46 barangays served by the CVO,” he said. With this, the CVO urges farmers to avail of the program saying, this will somehow help them, espe-cially, those hobbling along animal drugs’ price hikes. “The project is also supportive of President Be-nigno S. Aquino III’s program on food security and self-sufficiency, which is simply called the Agri-Pinoy,” he added. (PIA-10)

by Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy

DSWD-10 stages a convergence caravan, today

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 9 (PIA) -- To intensify the infor-mation campaign on its convergence strategy, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in Northern Mindanao, has staged a caravan, here, at Charmaine Tadlas, DSWD-10 Regional infor-mation Officer, said the de-partment has put together in

a convergence its core anti-poverty programs to ensure efficient, effective, and im-proved delivery of social

services to the poor. These programs, she said, are the conditional cash transfer (CCT) pro

18

by Apipa Bagumbaran


gram or the Pantawid Pami-lyang Pilipino Program, the Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahi-rapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), a community-driven devel-opment program which tar-gets poor communities, and the sustainable livelihood assistance program dubbed as Self-Employment Assis-tance-Kaunlaran (SEA-K). The convergence strategy aims to maximize the resources allocated for the three (3) poverty-reduc-tion programs by reducing

the duplication of efforts, strategies and activities at all levels, as well, as harmoniz-ing the processes involved in the implementation of these social protection pro-grams, she further said. Some 1,500 benefi-ciaries of the programs in the province participated in the convergence caravan along with the different gov-ernment agencies who pro-vided services to these ben-eficiaries. These services in-cludes job placements by the Department of Labor and

Employment (DOLE), free dental, optical, and medical check-up by the Department of Health (DOH), free birth registrations by the Civil Registry, and orientation for small scale businesses by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), among others. Non-government or-ganizations and the private sector were also present in the whole-day event, which was highlighted by a ben-eficiaries’ dialogue with the local chief executives of the province. (PIA-10)

DSWD-10 stages... from page 17

Sec. Coloma issues directive for cost-saving measures of PCOO officesCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 9 (PIA) – Secretary Sonny Co-loma of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) has directed all senior officials under him to provide inputs on phone subscriptions of their re-

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

The PCOO Secretary has, particularly, asked for data on phone subscrip-tion, in terms of volume and value, of each agency’s re-quirements, so that the pos-sibility of bulk purchases and reduced rates may be explored. Included in his memo-randum dated Aug. 16, this year, to the PCOO Senior Officials, are the heads of agencies, bureaus and of-

fices under the PCOO, such as, the Philippine Informa-tion Agency (PIA). “This is in line with the President’s instructions for the government to adopt cost-saving measures to bring down the govern-ment’s overhead expendi-ture, so that savings can be used to fund infrastructure and basic social services,” Coloma said. Likewise, the PCOO

Secretary, has asked for the data of last year’s monthly cost of phone subscriptions, mobile and landline, and the cost of their internet sub-scriptions, as well, as rates of hotel accommodations in their respective areas. “We are, actually, conducting a survey to de-termine the government’s requirement for these items so that we may explore the possibility of bulk purchase

19


at reduced rates,” the PCOO Secretary reiterated. Meanwhile, all na-tional government agencies (NGAs) and government-owned and controlled corpo-rations (GOCC) have been directed to refrain from en-tering into new contracts or renewing existing contracts beyond July 31, 2012. This directive on the

subject of “Cost-Saving Measures of the Aquino Government” dated last July 27, was again in line with the instructions of the President to adopt cost-saving mea-sures as cited above. It was signed by Sec. Florencio B. Abad of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Sec. Gregorio L. Domingo,

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and became the basis of Sec. Coloma’ directive to his men. For further inquiries, please contact Director Joel Cruz of the DTI General Ad-ministrative Services (GAS) at phone no. (02) 7518242, fax: (02) 7513253 or email: [email protected]. (PIA-10)

Sec. Coloma... from page 18

Completion of Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental underwayCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 9 (PIA) -- Except for its air navi-gational system and suppor facilities, with an estimated cost of Php755.24 million, the Laguindingan Airport Development Project (LADP) is already an airport per

by Apipa Bagumbaran

This was disclosed Engr. Ryan B. Gico of the LADP Project Management Office, who said the progress of the project is 1.25 per-cent ahead of schedule, during the media forum conducted by the Na-tional Economic Development Au-thority (NEDA), in region 10, yester-day. He said the physical prog-ress of LADP’s civil works compo-nent which includes the horizontal and vertical construction, as well as, site utilities registered an actual ac-complishment of 88.92 percent, as of September 7, 2011. Gico also said the horizontal construction comprising of earth-works, pavement works, storm water drainage works, fencing works, sod-ding, access road, and landscaping is already 93.35 percent complete.

On the other hand, the prog-ress of the vertical construction is 72.17 percent, while the provision of site utilities including electrical and mechanical equipment is 82.54 per-cent complete, he added. Vertical construction includes construction of passenger terminal building, operation and control tow-er building, cargo terminal building, power house building, administration building, maintenance building, cold water receiving station, DVOR/DME building, gate houses and gateway arch, fire fighting vehicles and other maintenance equipment. Gico emphasized that the project aims to establish an interna-tional-standard airport to meet the increasing demand of air passenger and cargo traffic of the Cagayan de Oro-Iligan Corridor (CIC) and the

Northern Mindanao region. The LADP is expected to re-place the two ( 2) existing airports in the CIC namely the Cagayan de Oro (Lumbia) Airport and the Iligan (Ba-loi) Airport, both of which, are having terrain and weather restrictions that limit the safe operation of wide-body commercial aircrafts. Once completed, the project is expected to boost the economic activities in Northern Mindanao, as it anticipates to enhance accessibility to promote tourism in the region and contribute to balanced development among regions. The LADP started in 2000 but major construction commenced in 2008, with a total project cost of Php7,853.43 million. Meanwhile, the consulting services component of the project

20


which includes both the detailed de-sign and construction supervision, contracted by the Yooshin Engineer-ing Corporation (YEC) and Schema Konsult Incorporated (SKI) started in 2000 and will end in 2012. The detailed design consist-ing of the review and updating of the

master plan was completed in Sep-tember of 2001, while the construc-tion supervision is still ongoing with a progress of 84.04 percent, as of Sept. 7. About four (4) expatriate ex-perts were deployed by YEC on site while SKI has deployed 17 local con-

sultants and 11 support staff, Gico further said. The project’s air navigation system and support facilities compo-nent is currently under the procure-ment process by the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), he concluded. (PIA-10)

Completion of... from page 19

DepEd’s 2011 National Literacy Conference anchors on peace and community development

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 9 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) will hold its annual National Literacy Conference, this coming Sept. 27-29, at the Imperial Palace Suites, Quezon City.

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

Brother Armin A. Lu-istro, DepEd Secretary, said the conference will be an-chored on theme “Pursuing Community Development Through Peace Literacy,” in line with the priority agenda of the United Nations Litera-cy Decade (UNLD) for cal-endar year 1011-2012 which is “Literacy and Peace.” The DepEd Secre-tary said the conference aims to raise awareness on literacy for peace and sus-tainable future, among the participants and share good practices on peace literacy for good governance. It also aims to re-flect on peace situations and identify appropriate strategies and community intervention and develop peace and literacy action agenda, program, projects

and activities for community development, he said. Expected to attend the conference on official business are the follow-ing: Bureau, Center and Regional Directors or their representatives, Regional Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs and Regional Supervisors of the Alternative Learning Systems (ALS) and formal education. Schools/City Di-vision Superintendents and Assistant Superin-tendents and Division Supervisors of ALS and formal education, District Supervisors and Princi-pals/Head Teachers of Elementary and Second-ary Public and Private Schools. ALS coordinators and mobile teachers, es-

pecially, those from the 5th and 6th class mu-nicipalities/districts and provinces included in the 30 focused barangays with the lowest literacy rates. Officers of the government agencies with extension programs involving literacy or con-tinuing education and heads and members of the non-government or-ganizations and civil soci-ety organizations (NGO/CSO) and heads of local government units (LGU) barangay chairpersons and Kagawads, barangay health workers and other officers involved in uni-versalization of literacy. Heads of private/corporate foundations with interest in education

or literacy and heads and members of academic in-stitutions, particularly, those in charge of the National Service Training Program-Literacy Training Service (NSTP-LTS). Meanwhile, Sec. Lu-istro said the conference will be highlighted with the pre-sentation of the National Lit-eracy Hall of Fame Award to Tagum City for being a three (3) time first place winner in the Outstanding Local Gov-ernment Unit, Component City Level Category, of the National Literacy Awards. Tagum City is also an awardee in the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2011 for its exemplary ac-complishments in literacy development through peace and literacy, Sec. Luistro added. (PIA-10)


Lack of state geologists hamper hazard-mapping

DAVAO CITY Sept. 9 (PIA)- The three-year geo-hazard mapping program is being hindered by lack of government geologists.

by RG Alama

“kulang talaga.” (re-ally lacking) said Beverly Mae Brevante, officer-in-charge of the Geosciences Division of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau –XI (MGB-XI) they are now commencing with a three year geo-hazard mapping that would produced much detailed 1:10,000 maps. Brevante said that there are only two geolo-gists working the maps in the whole of the region. She and one private contractor are concentrating on pro-ducing the maps. She said that it is unlikely given their number that they would finish mapping out Davao Region for the next three years. “Ideally it should be 10-15 geologists working.” Brevante said. For now we are told to concentrate on geohazard mapping , while

we are asking from private geologists for assistance.” she added. A very competitive mining industry has been one of the reasons for the dearth of government geolo-gists. According to Brevante, there are no applicants for government positions as many geologists are making a beeline to the private min-ing industry which dangles higher pay. Due to the Salary Standardization Law, a government geologist re-ceives around P28,000 (Salary Grade 18). Where-as an unlicensed geologist receives a starting pay of P30,000 in the private sector. Licensed geolo-gists are paid as much as P300,000. In an interview early this year MGB director Leo Jasareno bared that the

government has lost 86 geologists to high-paying private mining companies and the more lucrative overseas work. “We are losing geol-ogists yet the risks are in-creasing.” Jasareno said during the interview. Brevante, the only government geologist in the region said that they have identified 402 land-slide-risk barangays and 503 barangays with high risk of flooding in Region XI. The two geologists in the region are focusing on eight cities and towns for the first year of the 1:10,000 scale geo-hazard mapping. These localities are: Davao City (Marilog District), Pan-tukan, Compostela, Don Marcelino, Mati City, Santa Maria, Talaingod and Mala-lag. (PIA 11)


Tagum intensifies reforestation programs as Pa-gasa cites temperature dip by 2 degrees

CITY OF TAGUM, Davao del Norte, Sept. 9 - Residents here wake up to cooler mornings wrapped with thick fogs, a strong manifestation of the temperature de-cline in this city as a result of the massive greening and reforestation programs spearheaded by the local government in recent years.

by Louie Lapat/Edwin of CIO Tagum

Reporting to students and stakeholders who at-tended an early morning tree planting drive in the Accretion Area in Barangay Pandapan, City Mayor Rey T. Uy proudly shared that the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronom-ical Services Administration (Pagasa) noted a two de-gree dip of the city’s annual average temperature, from 28.35°C in 2001 to 26.70°C in 2010. Data obtained from the nation’s weather bureau noted the annual averag-etemperature of the city as follows: 28.08°C (2002), 27.80°C (2003), 27.65°C (2004), 27.03°C (2005), 26.85°C (2006), 26.54°C (2007), 27.03°C (2008) and27.40°C (2009).

This is a concrete result of the greening pro-grams such as the accretion reforestation jointly under-taken by the local govern-ment and the private sector, Uy said, adding that the city will intensify these programs for the benefit of both the environment and the future generation. On September 8, 2011, Uy inked another memorandum of agreement with Tagum Cooperative, Inc. to maintain the accre-tion area planted with fast-growing trees with a budget of two hundred thousand pesos, sourced out from the cooperative’s coffers. DepEd Superinten-dent Nenita E. Lumaad, who also sits as the Chairperson of the cooperative’s Board

of Directors shared that this is part of their firm’s corpo-rate social responsibility. Lumaad urged the students, parents and her colleagues at DepEd and Tagum Cooperative to ear-nestly supervise the accre-tion area to ensure the sur-vival of the planted trees. By signing the MOA, Tagum Cooperative joined the ranks of the private sec-tors who tied up with the lo-cal government in its green brigade. Among these are the NCCC Cares and the Tagum Water District. Meanwhile, Mayor Uy announced that aside from tree planting activities, his administration will also launch the wall greening project in the coming days. (MGM/PIA/Edwin Lapat)

Kiblawan mayor awaits biggest copper-gold mine operation, sees progress for her townKIBLAWAN, Davao del Sur, Sept 9 (PIA) - Mayor Atty. Marivic Diamante of Kibla-wan, Davao del Sur, said in an interview with local media this week that her town is earnestly awaiting commercial operations of the Tampakan copper-gold project, said to become the biggest mining operation in the country. 23


pleted the three-day train-ing and had stressed their value not only in promoting their barangay but for cave conservation as well. “Daghan gyud kayo

mi ug natun-an ilabi na ang pag-konserba sa atong mga langub ug kung unsa kini ka importante sa atoa.” said Ramon Quinco, one of the trainees for cave guiding.

The said cave inspec-tion and basic caving course is in the preparation for the cave festival on October this year. (MGM/PIA/Ana Adora P. Salapayne – IO Laak)

Kiblawan mayor... from page 22

DILG Sec. Robredo: Comval apil sa 10 Most Out-standing Provinces

Ang Compostela Valley province mao lang dinhi sa Mindanao ang bugtong probinsiya nga naapil sa giilang Top 10 High Performing Provinces sa na-sud. Kini base sa State of Local Governance Performance Report (SLGPR),

nga gipagula ni Secretary Jesse Robredo sa Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). Makadawat ug da-kong pasidungog gikan sa kauluhan sa moabot nga mga adlaw si Gov. Arturo “Chiongkee” Uy, ug laing si-yam pa ka mga gobernador sa nasud. Kini tungod sa il-ang Excellent Performance diha sa pagmugna, ug sa ilang pag-implementar sa mga programa nga nagtu-mong sa pagpalambo sa pamuyo ug panginabuhi sa mga katawhan ilalom sa upat ka mga areas of gover-nance nga gilangkoban sa Administrative Governance, Social Governance, Eco-nomic Governance, ug En-vironmental Governance. Gawas sa napulo ka mga Gobernadores, matud ni Sec. Robredo nga pa-sidunggan usab sa kaulu-

han ang 20 pa ka mga City Mayors sa nasud tungod sa susamang Extra Execl-lent Performance nga ilang nahimo sa pagdumala sa Gobyerno. Si Sec. Robredo nag-ila sa Top 10 High Performing Provinces sa nasud nga mao ang Bo-hol, La Union, Bulacan, Negros Oriental, Pangasi-nan, Ilocos Norte, Albay, Cavite, Compostela Val-ley, ug ang Tarlac. Alang sa kategory-ang Highly Urbanized In-dependent Component Cities, gitakdang pasi-dunggan ingon nga Top Performing Cities ang Valenzuela, San Juan, Puerto Princesa, Angeles, Davao, Naga, Iligan, Cebu,

ug ang Taguig. Ug ubos sa kategoryang Compo-nent Cities pasidunggan nga Top Performers ang Ligao sa Albay, Laoag sa La Union, San Fernando, Vigan, Gingoog, Cabanat-uan, Dipolog, La Carlota, Iriga, ug ang Batac. Matud ni DILG As-sistant Provincial Director Brenda Salarda, nga ta-liwala sa mokabat 86 ka mga probinsiya sa nasud ang Compostela Valley maoy pinakalinghod nga nakasulod sa TOP 10 Most Outstanding Provinces ug kini nag-inusara lang dinhi sa Mindanao. Ang Comval nagselebrar sa iyang ika-13 anibersaryo niadtong Marso. (MGM/PIA/gilbert cabahug/ids comval)


Lebak officials gather fisheries stakeholders for oath-taking, dialogueKORONADAL CITY, Sept 9 (PIA) -- More than a hundred stakeholders were gath-ered to participate in a mass oath-taking ceremony and a dialogue held at Alm-irante’s Garden in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat on Saturday, September 3. Attorney Asis Perez, the national director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) officially inducted 80 fisher-folk leaders of different fish-eries organizations in the municipality. The gathering was also an opportunity for the local officials to convey their determination to regulate fisheries in their areas of ju-risdiction. “Few decades back we have abundant fish catch here however due to dyna-mite fishing our resources have gradually dwindled,” said Mayor Dionesio Besa-na. Consequently, the mayor expressed his vision to revive bangus conces-sion business which was once a major income earner for Lebak town.

In the middle of the 3-hour convergence, Lebak officials took the opportunity to endorse to Director Perez their resolution to support moves for the creation of the Department of Fisher-ies. Perez personally re-ceived the document and is now on channel for appro-priate actions. A dialogue then was conducted between and among the fisherfolk, the local officials, BFAR man-agement, and visitors from the private sectors where issues of fisheries licensing, registration, and Fishpond Lease Agreement (FLA) were lengthily discussed. In the open forum, Perez cited mangrove stew-ardship as an alternative strategy to secure approval of authorities to avail land

areas which are not allowed for FLA. “In areas where FLA is not feasible, aqua-silvi-culture (or culture of fish or other aquatic organisms in a mangrove ecosystem) can be an effective option as this is an environment-friendly intervention”, he said. The fisherfolk, specifi-cally the commercial opera-tors, were advised to avail BFAR services to help them facilitate easy licensing and registration procedures. To this effect BFAR 12 Director Sani Macabalang offered to all concerned the mobile licensing service and technical assistance that the bureau provides. Concerned partici-pants were also advised to secure membership with the SOCKSARGEN Federation of Fishing and Allied

by Omar Sabal

25


Industries, Inc. (SFFAII), an umbrella non-government organization in the Region, which looks after the welfare of smaller organizations.

The gathering was also an opportunity to award plaques of appreciation to deserving individuals who are noted for their insur-

mountable contributions for the development of fisheries in the municipality. (DED/PIA 12/BFAR 12)

Lebak officials... from page 24

P3.75 M asparagus packing facility to rise in GensanKORONADAL CITY, Sept 9 (PIA) – A P3.75-million asparagus packing plant will soon rise in Barangay San Jose, General Santos City.

by Dani Doguiles

Just recently, Agricul-ture Secretary Proceso Alca-la, along with Gensan Mayor Darlene Antonino Custudio, led a ceremonial ground-breaking of the Department of Agriculture-funded packing facility for the Greenland As-paragus Producers Multipur-pose Cooperative (GAPMC). Alcala said funding for the project, which will initially benefit 60 asparagus grow-er-members of GAPMC, was coursed through DA’s High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) and the National Agribusiness Corpo-ration (NABCOR). He said the project is in accordance with the de-

partment’s goal to transform General Santos City and Soc-csksargen region as a prima-ry producer of high value crops. Gensan has been well-known as the “tuna capi-tal” of the Philippines. Soccsksargen region covers the provinces of Sa-rangani, South Cotabato, Sul-tan Kudarat, and North Cota-bato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan, and Cotabato. Among the high value crops popularly grown in the region are rubber, oil palm, banana, pineapple, fruit crops, and many others. Construction of the GAPMC’s packing plant is

expected to be completed by the end of October. Members of GAPMC produces 300 to 400 kilo-grams of asparagus shoots daily from their 15-hectare farm; at present they sort and pack their produce in make-shift huts. Sec. Alcala said among the high value crops set for development in Gensan area include onions and garlic. At the groundbreaking ceremonies he instructed DA 12 Regional Executive Ama-lia Jayag-Datukan to look for at least 100 hectares for the development of onions and garlic starting next year. (PIA 12)

Tacurongnons set for Talakudong Festival

TACURONG CITY, Sept 9 (PIA) -- With the 11th Foundation Anniversary of Tacurong just a few days away, the city government and its people have stepped up their preparations to join in the coming celebration with the theme, “Talakudong: Kami Nagahugpong.”

by Jessa Billano

26


Activities are set ahead of everyone for the week-long event with a call for unity among all Tacuron-gnons. The festival will for-mally open on September 12 after an Inter-Faith Mass in the City Hall Ground which will start at 7:00 o’clock in the morning. This aims to gather the Tacurongnons, though diverse in ethnic and religious orientations, in one prayer and one vision. The Igpat Sang Kam-era Photo Exhibit will be available for public viewing starting September 12 until September 18 at the City Hall Lobby. This exhibit is

the product of Igpat Sang Kamera Photo Clinic and Photo Tour held earlier this month. Other important events include the Min-danao-wide Hip-hop and Dance Sports Competition at the city gym on Septem-ber 14; pageant night of the Mutya ng Lungsod ng Tacurong at the Notre Dame of Tacurong College on September 16; and, an-nual surgical mission at the Sandig Clinic and Hospital on September 17. Talakudong Street Dancing Competition and Field Demonstration Com-petition will highlight the cul-

mination day on September 18. Local government leaders believe that provid-ing this kind of avenue which promotes unity and peace among Tacurongnons is es-sential for the growth and development of the city of goodwill. For more information on other events and activi-ties of the 11th Foundation Anniversary Celebration of Tacurong, please visit the official website of the city government of Tacurong at www.tacurong.gov.ph. (DED/PIA 12/TACURONG CPIO)

Tacurongnons set... from page 25

Mga CCTV camera ilalagay na sa lungsod sa susunod na linggo

COTABATO CITY, Setyembre 9 (PIA) – Labing apat na CCTV camera ang ilalagay na sa ibat-ibang strategic areas ng lungsod sa susunod na linggo . Matapos aprubahan ng Sangguniang Panglung-sod ang kahilingan ng pama-halaang lungsod na bumili ng units ng CCTV camera at mailabas mula sa SP noong nakaraang Martes ang ‘go-signal,’ inihahanda na ngay-

on ng Office of the City Ad-ministrator ang installation ng mga CCTV camera. Ayon kay City Ad-ministrator Atty. Cynthia G. Sayadi napili na nila uma-no sa pakipagtulungan ng City PNP ang mga lugar na

paglalagyan ng nasabing mga equipment. Ang paglalagayan ng nasabing mga CCTV camera ay hindi ilalahad sa publiko upang hindi malaman ng masasa-mang loob at hindi

ni Moner C. Dayaan

27


masawata ang ginagawang ‘criminality surveillance’ ng mga otoridad. Ang nasabing CCTV camera, ayon kay Saya-di, ay galing sa America. “ Ikakabit na ang mga ito ng nanalong bidder sa susunod na linggo. Kinilalala na rin nag nanalong bidder ang mga lugar na paglagyan ng

mga camera,” dagdag pa ni Sayadi. Sinabi ni Sayadi na maraming tao ang nagpa-hayag ng kanilang kagala-kan sa paglalagay ng CCTV camera sa lungsod kasa-bay ng kanilang pangakong babantayan ng maigi ang nasabing mga kagamitan upang hindi ito pagtangkah-

ang sirain ng masasamang loob. Pinasalamatan ni City Mayor Japal “Jojo” Guiani, Jr. ang Sangguniang Pan-glungsod sa pagapruba ng kahilingan na makabili ng CCTV camera ang city gov-ernment. (PIA Cotabato City)

Mga CCTV camera... from page 26

City Peace and Order Council ng Kidapawan nag-pasa ng 3 resolusyonCOTABATO CITY, Setyembre 9 (PIA) - Agad na pinulong ni mayor Ro-dolfo Gantuangco ng lungsod ng Kidapawan ang City Peace and Order Council (KCPOC) upang talakayin at bumuo ng mga hakbang upang ma-hadlangan ang anumang tangka ng paghasik ng karahasan sa lugar.

ni PB Changco

Nais ng alkalde na mailatag ang mas mahig-pit na mga hakbang pang-seguridad upang hindi mabigyan ng pagkakata-on ang mga masasamang loob na maghasik ng takot at pamganba sa mga ma-mamamayan ng lungsod bunsod ng tinanggap na ulat kaugnay sa planong pambobomba at kidnap-ping “Nakatanggap ako ng A-1 information mula sa military at pulisya hing-gil sa planong pambob-omba at kidnapping dito

kaya kailangan ang pag-tutulungan ng lahat ng sektor upang tugunan ang problemang ito,” ayon kay Gantuangco. Ayon sa alkalde, ina-lerto na rin ng mga awtori-dad ang mga negosyante na magingat at higpitan ang kanilang seguridad upang di masilisihan. Dahil may mga na-ganap na mga pambob-omba sa lungsod nitong nakalipas na ilang taon, nanatiling nakatututok ang pamahalaang lokal sa pi-nalakas na kampanayng

pangseguridad upang di maapektuhan ang kabu-hayan at ekonomiya ng lungsod. Kaugnay dito, tat-long resolusyon ang ipinasa ng KCPOC –una, ang pagpapala-kas ng checkpoint sa mga lansangan, pan-galawa-ang mahigpit na pagpapatupad ng curfew at paghihikayat sa pagtutulungan ng iba’t ibang ahensiya ng gobyerno upang la-banan ang karahasan. (PIA Cotabato City)


HR practioners - partners in development

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) -- Human Resource Practioners in Caraga region will convene to be updated on their area of expertise.

by Nora CL Molde

The Caraga Region-al Council of Human Re-source Managers, Incor-porated (CRCHRMI) with the Civil Service Commis-sion (CSC), Caraga re-gional office will conduct this year’s 8th Regional Convention of Human Re-source Practitioners with the theme: “Transforming HR Practitioners as Stra-tegic Partner for Good Governance” on Septem-ber 27-28, 2011 in Bayu-gan City, Agusan del Sur. CSC Caraga region-al director Adams D. Torres said the convention aims to provide a continuing ed-ucation to the CRCHRMI members and to promote among the government HR practitioners the need

to transform its roles from personnelling to a more strategic role as partners in the development in their respective institutions. Participants to the convention include: ad-ministrative officers, hu-man resoure management officers, HRM assistants, HRM aides and those who are involved in personnel management administra-tion from the different gov-ernment agencies of the region. The convention is a live-out activity with a registration fee of P2,400 inclusive of snacks and meals, kit, a lifetime membership fee to the Council of One Hundred pesos and other miscel-

laneous expenses. The members of the Council have agreed that participants are to observe the color of at-tire of every chapter during the convention as follows: Agusan del Norte should wear blue; Agusan del Sur - black; Surigao del Norte – red; and Surigao del Sur – yellow. Said convention is in line with the month-long celebration of the 111th Philippine Civil Ser-vice Anniversary with this year’s theme: “Champion-ing R.A.C.E. (Responsive, Accessible, Courteous, and Effective): Excel-lent Public Service at Full Speed.” (PIA-Caraga)


Mindanao immigration bureau monitoring illegal aliensBUTUAN CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) -- Retired Col. Ace Guro, Bureau of Im-migration (BI) Technical Assistant for Mindanao said foreign nationals in Mindanao are being monitored, and cases of illegal entry are being ad-dressed.

by Robert E. Roperos

He said their record showed that the immigra-tion offices in all regions in Mindanao have already advised foreigners whose visas are already expired to apply for an extension. “For those who did not fol-low, they were advised to be deported,” he said. During the taping of Caraga in Focus Wednes-day at the Regional Office of the Philippine Informa-tion Agency (PIA) here, Guro also said the per-

sonnel of the bureau has already improved as they see to it that all issues and concerns are given proper action. “Sinisiguro kasi ng bagong pamunuan ng BI na ang mga issues and concerns ay natutugunan base na rin sa direktiba ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III” (The new ad-ministraton of BI want to ensure that all issues and concerns are addressed based on the directive

of President Benigno S. Aquino III), Guro said. Guro also said that the agency received in-formation from civilians that led to the resolution of cases involving foreign nationals. With this, Guro urged the public to contin-uously support the bureau in an effort to uphold the thrusts and mandates of the agency. (PIA-Caraga)

Meat vendors assure sufficient supply for Surigao fiestaSURIGAO CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) -- Surigao City Public Vendors Associa-tion Meat Section President Susan “Tata” G. Galinea confirmed today that supply of meat in the city are sufficient enough for the city’s fiesta

by Dandy Lapura

“Our meat supply here is sufficient. The pub-lic has nothing to worry about it,” Galinea said. Galinea said meat prices are still at their nor-mal range as of press time.

“Prices of carabao meat range from P220-P240 while P270-P280 for beef meat,” Galinea added. Galinea, however, said that she cannot give assurance whether or not

there will be a price in-crease. “But if a shortage of meat will happen in the local market, our vendors will import meats coming from nearby cities like Bu-tuan City, Gingoog City,

30


Davao City and Bukid-non,” she added. Meantime, the City Veterinarian Office along

with Public Market Ven-dors urged the public to only buy in the registered meat vendors with com-

plete license and docu-ments to avoid double dead or unsafe meat. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Meat vendors... from page 29

Butuan City readies for “Clean Ground, Zero Waste” launching

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) -- The city government headed by Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. with the working committees composed of regional and national line agencies including business sector and youth organi-zations have stepped up its preparations for the launching of the “Clean Ground, Zero Waste” Program on September 11, 2011.

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

Chief of offices of the city government with the representatives of the regional line agen-cies convened Thursday and finalized the prepa-rations and sequence of activities during the said launching. Ms. Ruth Jugao, City Economic Enterprise and Development Office (CEEDO) Manager and the over-all coordinator for the “Clean Ground, Zero Waste” Program stressed that the city government is serious in implement-ing the Solid Waste Man-agement Program. “The launching is not only the activity of the

city government but also of its citizenry, this is why we should all do our part for this is everybody’s re-sponsibility,” said Jugao. Jugao further bared that attendance is a must for all government em-ployees during the simul-taneous clean-up which will start at 5:00 a.m. in the 38 barangays of the city and main streets, to be followed with the Car-avan and program proper at the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gym. Also, City Adminis-trator Leah Mendoza said that each employee should bring their own cleaning

materials for it will com-plete their attendance. Thus, failure to bring said materials is considered absent while participants are also preferred to wear something colored-green. “Let’s take the ini-tiative. As government employees, let’s all serve as model to the people in our community,” Mendoza said. Meanwhile, at 5:00 a.m. on Sunday, a loud sound of siren will sig-nal the start of the si-multaneous clean-up by the expected 7,000 to 10,000 participants. (PIA-Caraga)


Philippine Army urges applicants to take Officer Candidate Course

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) -- The Army Recruitment Office for Mind-anao is now accepting applicants to fill-up the quota of Officer Candidate Course (OCC) Class 40 C.Y. 2012.

by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton

Successful appli-cants will undergo one full year of leadership train-ing at Officer Candidate School, TRADOC, PA based in Camp O’Donnel, Sta. Lucia, Capas, Tarlac with a gross monthly com-pensation of P27,506 while on training. After gradua-tion, they will be commis-sioned by the President as Second Lieutenant in the Regular Force, Armed Forces of the Philippines. To qualify, an ap-plicant must be a natural born Filipino citizen, be-tween 21 and 24 years old on the date of admis-sion; a baccalaureate de-gree holder; single, never been married, and has no legal obligation to sup-port a child; must have no pending case in any court of law, must be at least 152.4 cm (5 feet) tall for both male and female, and

lastly, must be physically, mentally, and psychologi-cally fit for training. Before undergo-ing Physical Fitness Test, Physical/Medical Exami-nation, and Philippine Army Officer Selection and Admission Board (PAOSAB) interview, ap-plicants must be able to pass first the required written examination for OCC to be conducted by the Army Testing Office. The date and venue of the examination will be as follows: on Sept. 12-13 at Hqs 1003rd CDC, 10th RCDG, ARESCOM, PA, Camp Bahian, Impalam-bong, Malaybalay City, on Sept. 14-15 at Hqs Divi-sion Support Area, 4ID, PA, Bancasi, Butuan City, Sept. 16-17 at Surigao State College and Tech-nology, Surigao City, and every Monday to Wednes-

day at Hqs Army Recruit-ment Office for Mindanao Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City. Upon taking the ex-amination, the applicants must bring their NSO copy of Birth Certificate, Tran-script of Records (TOR) or their College Diploma, 1pc of 2x2 colored ID pic-ture with white background and Identification card (ID) for registration purposes. Successful appli-cants will receive lead-ership and other skills trainings, opportunity for career advancement based on performance, opportunity for Post-graduate studies (both within the country and abroad), and an oppor-tunity to lead in the Army. (MRA/Army Personnel Management Center, Philippine Army/PIA-Caraga)

one mindanao - september 9

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