one mindanao - april 30, 2012

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESExecutive 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 Officer-in-charge,PIARegionX

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

OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII

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

Copy Editors Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region Nora C. Lanuza Molde, PIA Caraga Region

Layout Artists ……… Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Zener R. Dumaguing, PIA Region X

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

Editorial Advisers :

ATTY. JOSE A. FABIADirector-General

Philippine Information Agency

SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMAPresidentialCommunicationsOperationsOffice

EDITORIAL BOARDWestern Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephoneno.(062)215-1480/925-0038Cellphoneno.0908-8843404E-mail:[email protected]@yahoo.comBlogspot:www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook:PIAWesMinInfoBliz

Northern MindanaoGraces’Building,AntonioLunaStreetCagayandeOroCity9000TelefaxNo.(08822)72-66-83Telephoneno.(088)856-8178/729-594Cellphoneno.0928-52043050917-3084969E-mail:[email protected][email protected]:www.pia-10.blogspot.com

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)2/FKantoMotorsBldg.,QuimpoBlvd.,NewMatinaDavaoCity8000Telephoneno.(082)297-0991/301-8580Telefaxno.(082)297-0992/304-2044Cellphoneno.0917-7053606/0918-9202950E-mail:[email protected]

Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN) Provincial Capitol Compound Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St.KoronadalCity,SouthCotabato9506Telephoneno.(083)520-0249Telefaxno.(083)228-9736/228-9739/520-0100Cellphoneno.0921-6873373/0928-5204307E-mail:[email protected],[email protected]

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)ViceMayors’LeagueofthePhilippinesBldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephoneno.(085)341-5285/360-1239Telefaxno.(085)341-2370Cellphoneno.0917-7188834Email:[email protected],[email protected],phBlogspot:www.piacaraga.blogspot.comFacebook:PIACaragaUpdates,PIAAgusandelNorte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur

Today’s issue...

Cover Story

Davao Summer

Southern Mindanao

Today’s issue... Monday, April 30, 2012 Vol. 1 No. 246

page 4

Souhern Mindanao

Aquino maintains the country wants to de-escalate tension with China on Scarborough Shoal territorial claims10

Zambo Medical Center to receive P40M MRI machine29

P10.4M political boundary survey launched in Comval town15SPES-TWSP convergence program to cover 21 LGUs in Region 1219PNP-12 initiates SWAT competition21

City dad elated over PCSO’s P2M medical assistance 26

Dani Doguiles, Central Mindanao

CT Apelacio, Central Mindanao

Robert E. Roperos, Caraga Region

Jocelyn P. Alvarez, Western Mindanao

Dipolog holds 14th P’gsalabuk festival31 Franklin P. Gumapon, Western Mindanao

Crime rate in Caraga region down by 16.96 percent27PSupt Martin M Gamba, Caraga Region

PNoy cites efforts on disaster management 34Jorie C. Valcorza, Northern Mindanao

Integrated gov’t services to high-light Labor Day celebration in Mis. Occ.

35Rutchie C. Aguhob, Northern Mindanao

8 11 14 17

23 28 3222

4 Monday, April 30, 2012 ONE MINDANAO

From islands to highlands, Davao Region has

become one of the prime tourism destinations in the country. This summer, the region entices once again with superb summer get-aways. Soak up in the beaches, surf the waves, hike thru mountain trails or experience something new in Davao. Here are some of the destinations (among the many places) where you can go spend your Davao summer.

Cover StoryDavao Summer

Pujada Island, Mati Davao Oriental

Located in the middle of Pujada Bay in Mati, Davao Oriental. Pujada Island is perhaps Davao’s best kept secret. it’s rock-free, gentle sloping beaches has cream powdery sands, clear waters plus

a clean and secluded environment, no huts, kiosks or commercial

establishments just the talisay and coconut trees providing cover against rain and sun. It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and picnics.

Dahican Beach, Mati, Davao Oriental

Famous for its long uninterrupted Pacific coastline, Dahican Beach is a

Monday, April 30, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 5

7-kilometer white sand stretch of a

beachcomber’s paradise. Its Pacific swells has also created an active surfing community. Young resident surfers and skimboarders called the Amihan Boys has gained acclaim internationally, you can see them ride the waves along Dahican Beach along with visitors coming all the way from Davao City. There are numerous resorts with various types of accomodations along Dahican.

Maragusan, Compostela Valley

Often compared to Baguio City. Maragusan was once known as the

summer capital of Davao. The highland municipality is

known for its

cool climate has attracted many to this town just to escape the tropical heat of the lowland. Maragusan has also 30 waterfalls and about 300 cold springs.

One of the famous falls is the majestic Tagbibinta Falls. Mt. Candalaga at 7,800 feet above sea level and one of Mindanao’s tallest peaks is also located in the

town. Among famous resorts include the Haven’s Peak and Aguacan Cold Spring Resort.

Kopiat Island, Mabini Compostela Valley Province

An unspoiled island located along Pindasan coastline in the town of Mabini. Compostela Valley Province. The 87-hectare island has been a known hatching ground of hawksbill and leatherback turtles. Efforts are underway to make the island a turtle sanctuary. Just off the island are still-pristine coral reefs which hosts a diverse collection of marine life. Its white sand beaches are popular among visitors who would take a 20-minute boat ride to the island.

6 Monday, April 30, 2012 ONE MINDANAO

Banana Beach, Madaum, Tagum Davao del Norte

Located inside the 760-hectare Hijo Estate, which is a banana plantation. The owners had developed a part of the plantation’s coastline into a tourism resort and renamed it as the Banana Beach, it is said to be the only beach resort in the middle of a banana plantation. Aside from powdery fine sands of the beach which said to be comparable to Boracay, the place also has infinity pools, comfortable cabanas and casitas, playgrounds and other amenities. Guests can go banana boat, skimboard, bike around, try fishing, go horseback riding in the sprawling tourism estate. Perhaps the highlight of the trip is a 60 hectare forest reserve adjacent to the beach where visitors can go canopy walks and experience seeing monkeys and wild boars up close.

Malipano Island Pearl Farm, The Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte

Bask in the luxury of Davao

Region’s only triple A- resort the Pearl Farm. Malipano island was once an exclusive enclave, part of the Pearl Farm Resort. Now guests can have the chance to experience the comforts of the luxurious Floreindo villas, designed by renowned architect Bobby Manosa. Below the villas are white sand beaches minus the crowds. Paradise Island Beach Resort, The Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte The nearest and perhaps most accessible Samal island beach to many Davao City residents. Its proximity and convenient access ( just a 10 minute banca ride from the boatlanding facility in Sasa) makes this white sand beach a popular destination among the weekend crowd. Nearby other popular resorts like Blue Jazz and Costa Marina also attracts many bakasyonistas.

Peoples Park, Davao City

Built in 2008, the 4-hectare greenery was once an athletic field. However under the initiative of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, a park was built and developed serving as a refreshing urban oasis in the midst


of the bustling Davao Central Business District. During the evenings visitors stroll across the expanse of the park in some occasions concerts and special performances by Dabawenyo artists are also held.

Eden Nature Resort, Toril, Davao City

The late Agro-industrialist Jesus V. Ayala converted this barren logged-over grassland into a pine forest which later morphed into the popular highland resort. Located 2,000 feet above sea level the pine trees of Eden provides a perfect respite for many city folks who have grown weary of the tropical summer heat. The resort has dining establishments, convention facilities, hotel rooms and other attractions like ziplines, pools, playgrounds, flower gardens, hiking trails and campsites.

Kapatagan, Digos, Davao del Sur

Another highland destination in Davao, barangay Kapatagan is located in the foothills of the majestic Mt. Apo, ithas become a fast-rising eco-adventure get-away very popular with the young urban crowd. It is home to strawberry farms, tribal villages, highland resorts among many others. Popular destinations in Kapatagan included Camp Sabros with its ziplines, The Tibolo Village, where visitors can immerse in indigenous Bagobo culture, The unique Agong House which is a installation piece of renowned Dabawenyo artist Kublai Millan. Then there is Mt. Apo Higland Resort at Lake Mirror and Hillside, a resort/campsite which boasts one of the most spectacular views of Mt Apo during the morning. The resort also serves the renowned Mt. Apo Civet Coffee.

8 Monday, April 30, 2012ONE MINDANAO

ACROSS THE NATION

Nobuteru Ishihara, a member of the House of Representatives of Japan and Secretary-General of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan paid a courtesy

call on the Chief Executive at the Music Room of the Malacanang Palace.

Representative Nobutero Ishihara was accompanied by his brother Hirotaka

Ishihara, a former member of the House of Representatives of Japan and Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe.

The House of

Aquino receives member of House of Representative of Japan in Malacañang

President Benigno S. Aquino III received one of the members of the House of Representatives of Japan in Malacanang on Monday and discussed various issues to further strengthen the long-standing ties between the Philippines and Japan.


ACROSS THE NATIONRepresentatives of

Japan is the lower house of the Diet of Japan.

The House of Councillors of Japan is the upper house.

Also in attendance were Transportation and Communications Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo and Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras.

Following his graduation from Keio University in 1981, Rep. Ishihara started working as a political reporter for Nippon Television Network Corporation (NTV).

In 1990, he was elected to the House of Representatives as representative for the Fourth District of Tokyo. He was re-elected for several

times.Due to his interest

in economic issues, he served on various Committees of the House of Representatives and Liberal Democratic Party dealing with finance, taxes, international trade, commerce, and industry.

“In 2001, I put my economic views into print by co-authoring The Total Plan for Reviving Japan’s Economy (Nihon Keizai Kishi Kaisai Totaru Puran). Along with fellow Diet Members Yasuhisa Shiozaki, Takumi Nemoto, and Yoshimi Watanabe, I argued that Japan should establish an approximately $100 billion, government-subsidized “Survival Fund” to purchase the private sector’s mountain of bad

debt,” he said in his official website.

On April 26, 2001, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi invited Rep. Ishihara to serve as Minister of State for Administrative and Regulatory Reform and he accepted an offer to join the Cabinet. On September 22, 2003, he was named the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

Despite the additional responsibilities associated with his ministerial posts, Rep. Ishihara said he did not lose sight of his duty as a Diet Member. On the contrary, he said he tried to transform his Cabinet experience into more effective leadership for the citizens of Japan. (JS)


Aquino maintains the country wants to de-escalate tension with China on Scarborough Shoal territorial

claims

BARANGAY ANILAO, Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro: President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Sunday that the Philippines will continue to support its stand to resolve territorial claims over contested Scarborough Shoal diplomatically and

to de-escalate any tensions between the country and China.

This after a Chinese general recently called for decisive action against the Philippines.

The President expressed confidence China would not take any action against the Philippines as both countries believed no one would benefit if military force was used to end the dispute.

“We don’t think that at this point in time they will

engage in any military activities. Purposely, our actions have been geared towards de-escalating the situation,” the President said.

“It’s clear that it is to nobody’s benefit and there are a lot of repercussions if any military force happens to be employed here,” he added.

He said the continued presence of Chinese

vessels and crew at the disputed island is being documented “so that when we make our case in the appropriate body, we have the necessary evidence.”

He also said the government will continue reviewing all relevant local and international laws to determine the rules that will operate in the area. (RCK)


Aquino government hails new study on the impact of Central Mindanao conflict and displacement

Cycles of violent conflict in

Central Mindanao have resulted in the mass displacement of nearly a million people from their homes over the past 12 years. In 2003, tens of thousands were displaced by armed conflict and, more recently, thousands of families had to leave their homes yet again when fighting escalated in parts of Zamboanga Sibugay and Basilan in October 2011. Currently, several thousand people across Mindanao remain displaced, particularly in Maguindanao.


Disrupting livelihoods are presenting major challenges to both affected families and the government, these concerns do not necessarily end with the return of displaced individuals to their places of origin, a study by the World Bank (WB) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) during a launch at the Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cabinet Cluster revealed. The survey, conducted in the last quarter of 2010, interviewed 2,759 randomly selected households from a total of 231 barangays across five provinces – Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), as well as Lanao del Norte, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat. The study – ”Violent Conflicts and Displacement in Central Mindanao: Challenges for Recovery and Development” – reveals that four in every ten households in the surveyed areas experienced displacement from 2000 to 2010, with one in five displaced two or

more times, and one in ten forced to leave their homes up to five times during this period. Displacement is detrimental to livelihoods, welfare and social cohesion across virtually every key indicator: food security, access to basic services, income poverty and housing, the study found. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Dinky Soliman welcomes the report’s “important insights on the inter-related dimensions of conflict, displacement and economic growth” in Central Mindanao. “The data provides a basis that will allow the relevant departments of government and other development partners to offer targeted recovery and render extensive development support in affected areas, especially in the most vulnerable households,” she said. Secretary Teresita “Ging” Quintos-Deles of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) also lauds the study, finding the report

a “very relevant guide” in government efforts to address the needs of conflict-affected communities under the current Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (Peaceful and Resilient Communities or PAMANA) program. “It is also important that interventions under PAMANA be based on detailed knowledge of livelihood opportunities and access to land, credit availability and food supply. These indicators vary from place to place,” Secretary Deles noted. For his part, World Bank Country Director Motoo Konishi observed that the report sheds considerable light on the nature and extent of vulnerability across provinces, population categories, and livelihood groups in affected areas. “It can shape the operational choices of humanitarian, recovery and development agencies and improve outcomes for the population on the ground,” he said. WFP Representative and Country Director Stephen Anderson meanwhile said that the


study would help agencies like WFP “better target food assistance as well as help communities strengthen their resilience to conflict and natural disasters.” Mr. Anderson noted that “the two ARMM provinces in Central Mindanao – Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur – suffer the highest levels of food insecurity. This is exacerbated by high levels of exposure to shocks, such as recurrent flooding and crop disease that make people poorer and more

food insecure.” Looking at the vulnerability of communities in Central Mindanao, the study found that households experiencing displacement have been “frequently exposed to violence.” Movements of armed military and rebel groups were cited by 29 percent of the surveyed households as one primary cause of their displacement, while 9 percent blamed it on clan conflict or rido. The report said that host families also feel the

pressures of d i s p l a c e m e n t from additional financial costs. Some host families, usually relatives, “had to resort to selling goods or assets to provide food and support” for the displaced people they were hosting. Of the areas s u r v e y e d , M a g u i n d a n a o p r o v i n c e accounted for the highest degree of

vulnerability, with about 82 percent of all households in the area affected by displacement due not only to violent conflict but also to weather-related disasters. These displacements represented the two poorest wealth quintiles, where households suffered the highest levels of food insecurity and the lowest incomes. When asked to identify their top priorities, surveyed households ranked money, employment, food, health and education, in that order. Respondents called for government attention to these basic needs, as well as the construction of roads and the need of electricity. Respondents also identified economic development, the signing of a peace agreement and ending impunity as critical interventions The DSWD and OPAPP, in partnership with the World Bank and WFP, plan to disseminate the results of this study through a series of presentations in various fora in Manila and Mindanao.


Thousands Malitaños benefit in ARENA XI’s “Serbisyo Caravan”

The Association of Regional Ex-ecutives of National Agencies

(ARENA) Region XI, in partnership with the 10th Infantry Division, conducted the 5th leg of its banner project “Serbisyo Caravan” for the residents of Malita, Davao del Sur on Friday (April 27). Over 2,000 Malitaños benefitted in the said convergence of programs and services provided by 44 national government agencies. Among the agencies that

rendered its service is the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) that brought an array of employment facilitation services. The Department of Health (DOH) assisted rural health units in its distribution of medicines, information, education and communication materials. The Department of Education (DepEd) gave information and

dissemination drive to the parents about its newly implemented K+12 program and distributed school supplies. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) provided information and dissemination campaign and skills demonstration. “The purpose of the ARENA XI is to bring the government services directly to the people which complemented the Peace and Development Outreach Program


(PDOP) of the 10th Infantry Division,” ARENA XI President Director Achilles Gerard C. Bravo said. “Through the Peace and Development Teams (PDTs), the government was able to identify the issues and concerns prevailing in the far-flung communities, thus, the appropriate and just service were brought to the people,” Bravo stated. Malita Municipal Mayor Benjamin P. Bautista Jr. greatly appreciated the ARENA XI for bringing the government services to Malita. Bautista said that the presence

of the military not only provided security and but also facilitated the delivery of basic social services even in far-flung areas. “The government has different programs for different social issues. Through the spirit of Bayanihan, Serbisyo Caravan converged and collaborated the programs of the government and other peace and development stakeholders in delivering the basic social services to the people,” stated Brig. Gen. Ariel B Bernardo, commander of the 10th Infantry Division. (1002nd Brigade Public Affairs)

P10.4M political boundary survey launched in Comval townMABINI, Compostela Valley- The P10.4 million political boundary survey for the municipality of Ma-bini, this province was launched on April 26 by the Department of Environment and Natural Resourc-es (DENR-XI) in order to define the metes and bounds of its 18 Barangays. The launching led by DENR-XI’s Lands Management Service (LMS) was participated in by the Barangay Captains, municipal officials and other concerned agencies. Mabini Mayor Hadji Amir B. Munoz said he is very thankful that finally the political boundary survey for the barangays in their municipality will be conducted.

Munoz assured DENR as well as the contractor Pintor & Realty Surveying, of his full support and cooperation to ensure the timely completion of the project. DENR-XI Regional Technical Director (RTD) for LMS Atty. Felix S. Alicer oriented the Barangay Captains about the survey and informed them that it is one of the priority programs of DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje. Alicer emphasized that the LGU will not be shedding any amount for the survey and technical assistance because it is being funded by the World Bank, urging the LGU to take advantage of it. He said that a technical


facts and figures

20.8 kilometers. The distance of the mountain bike lap of the second Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. The eco-adventure race involves numerous disciplines trekking, mountain-biking, water-tubing and running which starts from the coast of Sta. Cruz up to the peak of the country’s tallest mountain, the Mt. Apo. The race held from April 27-29 was won by a Philippine Army team from Manila, team Bebang 1 made up of Cresencio Sabal, Gerald Sabal and Jhanalodin Lucman.

conference will still be conducted for barangays with boundary conflicts, so that agreements can be reached if possible and their boundaries can be defined. Survey contractor Atty. Reuel T. Pintor requested the barangay captains to start gathering all the available documents they have that can serve as the basis for the barangay surveys such as resolutions and maps. Political boundary survey is very important in order to hasten the quieting land titles in the country, thus preventing unnecessary land conflicts in the future. Political boundaries give a particular city or locality areas/lines up to which a particular political

entity can exercise its authority. It will also provide bases for the tourism, infrastructure, economic and development plans of a given Local Government Units (LGUs).The Political Boundary Survey is one of the activities under Cadastral Survey provided for in Republic Act 2259 or the Cadastral Act.Cadastral survey is a survey of extensive areas covering a municipality, city or a portion thereof for general land registration proceedings, agricultural development, and other purposes. It is geared towards establishing project control points, political boundaries and lot surveys. (DENR-XI)


Cotelco GM says AboitizPower, TMI did not refuse delivery of power to coopBy Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato-- AboitizPower and Therma Marine Inc. (TMI) did not refuse to deliver power to Cotabato Electric Cooperative (Co-telco) nor did they impose P16.11 per kwh rate on the cooperative, Cotelco General Manager Godofredo Homez said.


Last Wednesday, several radio stations and newspapers reported that negotiations between Cotelco and TMI for a 8-MW supply of electricity have stalled because the latter would charge Cotelco P16.11/kwh of power supplied, as well as require them a P4-million security bond and P14-million advanced payment.

“In summary, we want to clarify that AboitizPower and TMI did not refuse to deliver power to Cotelco,” Homez said in a letter sent to the Department of Energy and PIA-12.

“AboitizPower and TMI did not impose P16.11 per kwh rate on Cotelco,” he added.

Homez also pointed out that the prepaid agreement was not imposed on the electric cooperative, adding that the rate is more or less P9.00 per kwh, which is the same rate charged to all electric cooperatives under contract with all TMI.

“It was an agreement discussed between two parties in consideration of the immediate need for power by Cotelco and the need of TMI to be protected for the costs they will incur in delivering power, especially fuel costs,” he explained.

Homez confirmed that Cotelco wrote to AboitizPower last April 12 to ask for a 8-MW supply from TMI in

anticipation of the huge deficit in power supply during the month-long rehabilitation of Pulangi IV hydropower plant.

Aboitiz power, he said, expressed availability of 8 MW.

“But following rules of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), our transaction must be governed by at least a provisional authority (PA) from the ERC,” he said. PAs, he explained, are usually issued 30 days of publication of the draft power supply agreement.

Homez explained that since they could not wait for a provisional agreement, they wrote to ERC asking that they be allowed to receive delivery of power from TMI without the required authority.

On April 19, he said, ERC approved Cotelco’s request to get power from TMI but not less than the prevailing NPC-Time of Use Rate or P.90 per kwh.

Regarding the P4-M security bond, Homez pointed out that this is a standard in all financial contracts. About the advanced payment, he


explained that “without a provisional agreement, Cotelco cannot legally impose the new rates to its consumers; following this is the risk that TMI will not be paid for its fuel and overhead costs. Thus a proposal for a prepaid system was discussed.”

Cotelco’s service area at regularly experiences up to 8 hours of rotational

brownout after the Pulangi IV plant was closed for maintenance works last week.

Before Pulangi IV was closed, Cotelco imposed 3 to 5 hours of rotational brownout. Cotelco, as well as the city government of Kidapawan and the provincial government of Cotabato, have been asking for the retention of 25 percent of the

power generated by the Mt. Apo Geothermal Power Plant owned by the Energy Development C o r p o r a t i o n .

The present 8-hour-per-day power outages in North Cotabato could persist until May 17, the date set for the completion of the Pulangi IV rehab, if Cotelco cannot buy supply from TMI.

SPES-TWSP convergence program to cover 21 LGUs in Region 12KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato-- A total of 21 municipalities in three provinces of Soccsksargen region will benefit from the initial implementa-tion of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Technical Educa-tion and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Convergence Program on poverty alleviation.

By Dani Doguiles

The program brings together DOLE’s Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) to provide training and employment opportunities to the marginalized sector of the society, especially


the out-of-school youth (OSY).

Based on a list provided by the office of DOLE 12 Regional Director Chona Mantilla last Friday, the SPES-TWSP Convergence Program will cover 11 municipalities in North Cotabato, eight in Sultan Kudarat, and two in Sarangani.

In North Cotabato, beneficiary OSYs should come from Aleosan, Midsayap, Tulunan, Alamada, Arakan, Banisilan, Kabacan, Libungan, Magpet, Matalam, and President Roxas.

Interested and qualified OSYs in Kalamansig, B a g u m b a y a n , Colombio, Esperanza, Isulan, Lambayong, Lebak, and Senator Ninoy Aquino municipalities of Sultan Kudarat may also avail of the training and employment program.

On May 1, the program will be launched in General Santos City for the municipalities of Malungon and Alabel in Saragani Province where

the first 42 scholarship grantees come from.

Director Mantilla said more municipalities may be included in the coming months.

“We have requested for the inclusion of the municipalities of Lake Sebu, T’boli and Sto. Niño in South Cotabato,” Director Mantilla said, adding that they are now awaiting approval of this by Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz.

Under the program, beneficiary OSYs who “may also be an occupationally disabled worker, a person with disability, a displaced worker, or a victim of trafficking, illegal recruitment or child labor,” will undergo mandated 20 to 52 days of technical vocational training in TESDA-identified institutions.

As in the original SPES program, DOLE will pay each beneficiary 40 percent of the prevailing minimum wage in the region for every day of training.

The amount, according to the program

guidelines, may be used as a training allowance or as capital to purchase the OSY’s starter kit.

More than 400 scholarship slots may be opened in Soccsksargen Region this year for OSYs interested in techvoc trainings that will be identified by TESDA 12. The program is open to OSY’s between 15 to 25 years old, whose family income (including his, if any) does not exceed the latest annual regional poverty threshold level for a family of six, as determined by the National Economic Development Authority.

Applicants should have reached high school level to be able to participate in the program.

Interested individuals need to submit to the nearest DOLE or TESDA office the needed documents. For more information, you may refer to the nearest DOLE Field Office or Public Employment Service Office or provincial/district office of TESDA. (DED-PIA 12)


PNP-12 initiates SWAT competitionBy CT Apelacio

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The Police Regional Office-12 here initiated the 1st SWAT (Special Weapon and Tactics) competition over the weekend to harness even more the skill of members in the elite unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

For the first time, PRO-12 brought together SWAT Units based in different city and the provincial police offices in the region for a unique contest.

PSSupt. Robert Kiunisala, deputy regional director for operations (DRDO), said that for the past few months, police job has become more challenging as crimes have been more complex and more sophisticated.

He said rebels have remained a major threat to peace in the region. Thus, the police, especially the SWAT forces must always be prepared all the time.

“Whenever rebels operate, we must find them where they dwell and stop them in their planning and one by one bring them to justice,” the Regional Public Information Office (RPIO) 12 quoted Kiunisala as

saying.Undertaken to

suppress criminal activities, the SWAT competition, “is a programmed training aimed to enhance and refresh individual’s efficiency and unit teamwork to ensure greater survival rating during hard times.”

SWAT, as PNP’s special elite force, is touted to be the show window of the organization, being most of the time at the forefront of police operations.

Kiunisala reasoned that it is important that PRO 12 equip its personnel “with the right skills and knowledge” to make them professionals as they should be and for them to immediately respond during emergency situation or whenever necessary.

He said the mere fact that their (SWAT) knowledge and training

have been honed to greater degree and given the chance to compete with the other only showed that they were “very competent and skilled” already.

Kiunisala also reminded the SWAT team that they only use firearms and weapons to protect people from harm and not to sow fear and insecurity among them.

An awarding ceremony led by Kiunisala himself capped the three-day activity with the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) 12 proclaimed as winning team followed by the Cotabato PPO, the General Santos City Police Office, fourth; Sarangani PPO, fifth; South Cotabato PPO, sixth; Sultan Kudarat PPO, seventh; and the Cotabato City Police Office, eighth. (CTA-PIA 12, General Santos City/With reports from RPIO-PRO-12)


Marawi health office enhances healthcare delivery by Apipa P. Bagumbaran

The city government, through the City Health Office (CHO),

is further enhancing its healthcare delivery system in order to improve the health status of its residents.

Dr. Faisal Idris, officer-in-charge of the CHO, said several health facility projects are on-going to ensure the availability and accessibility of health services. “These include the construction of P13-million Marawi City Hospital in Barangay Bito Buadi Itowa and the creation of CHO-satellite offices in four distant barangays of the city,” he said. According to him, the satellite offices are to be constructed in Barangays Timbangalan, Kapantaran, Amito, and Cabingan with an estimated budget of P3 million each. Idris further said that the CHO has also implemented various initiatives responsive to the health needs of its

people. He said the initiatives involve the mobilization of the community, the academe, and religious leaders as partners in healthcare delivery. “We have also successfully build alliance with multi-sector partners for TB control, as well as, strengthened ties with the private sector in order for us to reach more constituents,” he added.


Marawi health office enhances healthcare delivery

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

[email protected][email protected]

As the Philippine government continues its efforts to provide better opportunities to Filipinos to address poverty, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

(TESDA) launched its TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Program (TSTP) on Thursday in Cabadbaran City.

TESDA launches Specialista Technopreneurship Program in Cabadbaran Cityby Jennifer P. Gaitano


In his message, TESDA Deputy Director General Atty. Teodoro Pascua emphasized that with TESDA, everyone who wants to land a job has choices. “Through the skills trainings provided by TESDA, trainees will have opportunities and be able to land a stable job after graduation that will improve the status of their lives,” Pascua said. Also, TESDA Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Dr. Florencio Sunico Jr. stressed that TESDA ensures that its graduates get the job suited to them and be employed. “We encourage our trained, certified graduates of the TSTP to be competent

and work well in the job they will have whether domestic or abroad,” Sunico said. A total of 20 graduates of the TSTP received their own Starter Kits from TESDA, which was awarded by TESDA Deputy Director General Pascua, TESDA-Caraga Regional Director Edwin Gatinao and Dir.

Sunico with Cabadbaran City Mayor Dale Corvera and Vice Mayor Harris Glenn Puyot. Corvera commended the efforts of TESDA for enhancing the skills of the students/trainees and providing the necessary tools/kits which trainees could use after they graduate from the training course. He also encouraged the graduates of TSTP to never stop learning and upgrading their skills. The mayor also said that he will be sending out 118 youth leaders from Cabadbaran to a spiritual training in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte at his own expense and afterwards,


youth leaders who will pass in the said training will be sent to TESDA for a skills training TSTP is a new program under Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva

and is created to provide employment opportunities to TESDAs’ technological and vocational graduates. The TSTP is also in support to the Aquino

administration’s Philippine Development Plan (PDP) specifically on Competitive Industry and Services Sectors, as well as Social Development.


According to Mayor Amante, Butuanons are very fortunate because of the endowment fund given are to accommodate the people in erms of their health care needs. Amante added that the medical assistance will give the indigent patients of the city the opportunity to avail health and medical needs, especially in the payment of the patients’ hospital bills. “Dako na kaayo ni og tabang alang sa atong mga kabus nga kaigsuonan sa dakbayan (This is a big help for our poor brothers and sisters here in the city),” Amante said. The official further said based on the

memorandum of agreement signed between him and Kho, it is stipulated that the city government should implement social conference with the hospitals where the beneficiaries can avail the assistance. “This is to ensure that these medical establishments have served the public well,” Mayor Amante added. For the past years, PCSO in Caraga Region has been active in addressing the needs of the people by providing medical assistance to include the hospital bills of indigent patients that are confined in hospitals throughout the region. PCSO’s Endowment

Fund Program (EFP) allocates funding assistance to government and private hospitals assistance to indigent patients in need of medical care, medicines, drugs, medical and surgical supplies, and diagnostic procedures for the management and treatment of various illnesses. The program aimed to grant fund to hospitals and other health facilities making health or medical services accessible to PCSO-authorized indigent patients. Specifically, it enables charity patients’ access to medicines, drugs, medical supplies, implants, blood, diagnostic and laboratory procedures.

City dad elated over PCSO’s P2M medical assistance

BUTUAN CITY -- City Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. expressed his gratitude to the management of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) on the P2-million medical assistance which the city government received from PCSO Regional Operations Manager Carlito Kho, in a ceremony held recently at the city hall here.

by Robert E. Roperos


Crime rate in Caraga region down by 16.96 percentby PSupt Martin M Gamba

The crime statistics showed 896 index crimes and 342 non-index crimes, which constituted the total of 1,238 cases in the first quarter of 2011. However, it dropped to a total of 1,028 cases in the first quarter of 2012 with 687 index crimes and 341 non-index crimes; a decline of 16.96 percent. Accordingly, the PNP Crime Clearance Efficiency has increased from 31.99 percent to 45.04 percent. Index crimes are very serious crimes like murder, homicide, physical injury, robbery,

theft, and rape whereas the non-index ones are mere violations of special penal laws. To minimize the occurrence of index crimes is an accomplishment of the PNP since these are directly affecting the peace and order situation. Moreover, the comparative crime trend between 2010 and 2011 indicates the significant drop in the commission of crimes from 6,375 to 5,149 cases respectively; a significant decrease of 19.23 percent. “The intensification

of anti-criminality campaigns and effective policing strategies has been instrumental” said PCSupt Reynaldo S Rafal, PNP-Caraga Regional Director. Police Regional Office 13, with utmost dedication, is serious in thwarting the occurrence of criminality to make Caraga more progressive; one essential way is to maintain its peace and order. “We will be exerting our efforts more to deter and penalize the criminals” he concluded.

BUTUAN CITY- The Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga, on its relentless operations and preventive measures, has been effective as the crime volume of this region has declined in the first quarter of this year compared with the same period in 2011.


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

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

This was bared by DOLE-9 assistant regional director Virginia Bonbon on Friday during the press

conference held at Hotel Guillermo. Bonbon said the distribution of grant will be held during the

DOLE-9 to distribute livelihood grants to PWDs By Gideon C. Corgue

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Kumalarang, Zamboanga del Sur on Tuesday, May 1 will receive a financial grant of almost P200,000 from the

Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).


formal opening of Labor day Job and Livelihood Fair at the City Commercial Center (C3). “I hope that through this livelihood grant, their lives will be improved,” she added. Bonbon said during the event, another Kabuhayan starter kits worth P841,000 which consist of carpentry tools, etc. will be awarded to the 84 beneficiaries. The Kabuhayan Starter Kits is a project under the Livelihood Enhancement Program of the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) which is aimed at raising the income level of every beneficiary. Expected to attend during the event are Mayor Samuel S. Co who will turn over the kits and Kumalarang mayor Allan Damas to receive the grant. Bonbon invites all job seekers to participate in the job and livelihood fair which will offer both local and overseas jobs.

Zambo Medical Center to receive P40M MRI machine By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Zamboanga City Medical Center (ZCMC) is expected to receive a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan machine.


The city’s local chief executive Mayor Celso Lobregat pledged to deliver the expensive machine early next year. “I will see to it that the city government will be able to donate an MRI to the ZCMC,” the mayor promised during the inauguration of the operating room complex and radiology oncology center of the ZCMC held recently. He said he already discussed the matter with the Department of Health (DOH) officials. “The equipment will cost between P30 million to P40 million,” Lobregat informed. He said funds for the purchase of an MRI scan machine will be included in the city’s supplemental budget for 2013. Once delivered, the ZCMC will be the first and only government hospital to have an MRI in the Zamboanga Peninsula Region or Mindanao as a whole. An MRI scan machine is used by physicians to detect structural

abnormalities in the body. It is a special technique that uses powerful magnets, radio waves and computers to produce detailed images (or scans) of the inside of the body. The images that an MRI scanner takes are very detailed. They are taken in thin ‘slices’ through one’s body and can be taken from any direction. They show one’s bones, soft tissues such as muscle, skin, nerves and blood vessels, and organs such as brain and heart. An MRI scanner can take pictures of most parts of the body. Because an MRI scanner takes very detailed pictures of the body, it can often show things that aren’t seen on an X-ray or in other tests such as an ultrasound. One may have an MRI scan to find out the cause of symptoms such as pain, joint or muscle stiffness, swelling or weight loss. One may also have an MRI scan if one has been diagnosed with a condition such as cancer, where the doctor needs detailed information so the doctor can make decisions about what treatment is best. (JPA/PIA9)


In it’s opening activity, which was graced by Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) grand winner Engr. Jan Slater L. Young, Mayor Evelyn T. Uy led the ribbon cutting to commence the agro and food fair and visual art exhibit at the Dipolog City Boulevard. This was followed by bottled sardines and

cooked “Tuloy” fish eating spree. P’gsalabuk is a Subanen term for thanksgiving. Thus, “P’gsalabuk sa Dipolog,” is a thanksgiving festival held yearly in this city every April 27 to May 31 to highlight the feast of St. Vincent that falls on the last Saturday of May. (ALT/PIA9)

Dipolog holds 14th P’gsalabuk festival

DIPOLOG CITY, Zamboanga del Norte - A grand motorcade around the major thoroughfares of this city marked the start of the 14th P’gsalabuk sa Dipolog festival, which will last until May 31.

By Franklin P. Gumapon


PNoy turns over houses to ‘Sendong’ survivorsby Apipa P. Bagumbaran

Around 700 families who were displaced by the recent Tropical Storm Sendong will now move-in to their new houses.

This, after President Benigno S. Aquino III led the ceremonial turn-over ceremony of the newly constructed permanent shelters in Calaanan Resettlement Site Phase III, this city, recently. The shelters are in quadruplex design with four units per quadruplex, each unit measuring 40 square

meters and costs around P70,000. According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), some 500 beneficiaries were prioritized for the transfer in the Phase III of the Calaanan site, including the 200 families from Barangay Macasandig who were the first occupants in Indahag Phase I.


PNoy turns over houses to ‘Sendong’ survivors

DSWD Secretary Corazon Soliman said the beneficiaries were identified through the Beneficiary Selection, Award and Arbitration Committee composed of the DSWD, the City Social Welfare and Development, the National Housing Authority, and representatives from non-government organizations, and internally displaced families. She said survivors in no-build zones, with totally damaged houses, with small children, those whose head of households died or were incapacitated as a result of the disaster, among others were given priority in the selection process. Meanwhile, 34-year old Anthony Cabanigan, one of the beneficiaries of the shelter units expressed gratitude to the President for not leaving them

behind. “Dako ang akong pasalamat sa atong Presidente tungod wala kami niya pasagdahi atol ug human sa dakong katalagman sa niaging tuig” (My deepest gratitude for the steadfast support of our President after the calamity hit us last year), he expressed. Cabanigan was formerly residing in Isla de Oro, one of the areas declared as no-build zones by the government. His family is currently staying at the Calaanan Tent City. He also thanked the city government, all national line agencies and other organizations that extended assistance to them and helped in the construction of the permanent shelter units.


PNoy cites efforts on disaster managementby Jorie C. Valcorza

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental – President Aquino cites the undertakings of the government with the objective of mitigating the effects of disasters and in accurately predicting typhoons and other natural calamities in the country.

The President announced this during his visit in the city yesterday, April 27, at the Calanaan Relocation Site in Barangay Canito-an, this city, to turn-over some 700 newly completed shelter units to families left homeless by tropical storm Sendong. He said that every Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) field office have been allotted around P500,000 standby funding for disaster response, which can be immediately used by the local government in facilitating faster disaster response. “Alongside other agencies of the government, we are pushing for

reforms and are strengthening our readiness against calamities, and to mitigate its effects. The Department of Science and Technology has launched Project NOAH or the Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards, a flood warning system wherein 600 automated rain gauges and 400 water level or river sensors will be placed in 80 major river systems and watersheds in the country,” the President said in Tagalog in his speech. President Aquino also called on the public to cooperate in this undertaking, especially to those people still living in these danger areas, adding that the people should not wait


PNoy cites efforts on disaster management

Integrated gov’t services to highlight Labor Day celebration in Mis. Occ.by Rutchie C. Aguhob

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental - An integrated government service delivery package will highlight the Labor Day celebration in Misamis Occidental on May 1. Focused on the Labor Day theme, “Pagtutulungan, Pagbabago, Disenteng Trabaho” (Cooperation, Changes and Decent Jobs), this one-stop-shop service will be held at the Oroquieta City ABC Gymnasium. It will include the following activities: setting up of the Skills Registry System Desk by the Oroquieta City Public Employment and Services Office (PESO) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE); Presyo Diskwento Caravan of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in coordination with DOLE; blood-letting by the Philippine National Red Cross, medical and dental services by the Department of Health-Integrated Provincial Health Office-Oroquieta City Health Office (DOH-IPHO-CHO); issuance of Security Paper (SECPA) certification of birth/marriage, etc. by the National Statistics Office; application for membership/premium payment to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. and the Social Security

System; skills demonstrations and counseling by the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority; and entrepreneural coaching by the DTI and livelihood counseling and career and employment coaching by DOLE. Meanwhile, Jose G. Robles, provincial head of DOLE-Mis. Occ., said the one-stop-shop will be preceded by a mass at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Oroquieta City, followed by a motorcade around the main thoroughfares of the city. To give their labor day messages are Mayor Jason P. Almonte of Oroquieta City and Governor Herminia M. Ramiro of Misamis Occidental. Robles also said the whole day activity will be held in coordination with the Mis. Occ Tripartite Industrial Peace Council, the city government of Oroquieta, the provincial government of Mis. Occ., and the Mis. Occ. PESO Managers’ Association.

for the disaster to strike before acting on it, emphasizing that the country is a typhoon-frequented spot. The President asked for cooperation from the citizens in protecting the gauges and sensors, and apprehending those who have stolen these, noting that some of these

installed apparatus have been stolen and were sold as iron per kilo. “With these equipment, we will be more accurate and timely of the forecasts and the monitoring of rains and floods in the whole country,” the President said.

one mindanao - april 30, 2012

Documents

pia caraga region nora

pia caraga region richard

pia caraga region officer

pia surigao

pia region ximanaging

pia region x rudolph

cellphon pia agusan

caraga regionpnoy