one mindanao - december 26, 2012

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

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

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

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

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

Regional Desk Editors Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

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

Layout Artists ……… Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr. Zener R. Dumaguing Recthie T. Paculba

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

Editorial Adviser :

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

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

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Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN) Provincial Capitol Compound Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St.Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506Telephone no. (083) 520-0249Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phBlogspot: www.piacaraga.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

Cover Story

Camiguin is simply beautiful!

Jasper Marie Oblina-RucatNorthern Mindanao

Today’s issue... Wednesday, December 26, 2012 Vol. 2 No. 91

page 4

‘Quinta’ weakens into tropical depression, 14 provinces under storm warning signal No.1 -PAGASA 9

Dani Doguiles, Central Mindanao

Health official urges fathers, uncles to keep chil-dren safe from firecrackers18Remote barangays in seven municipalities in Agusan del Sur get access to safe drinking water 22 David M. Suyao, Caraga Region

Army’s gift-giving, feeding activities benefit former rebels in Bukidnon

Pag-IBIG Fund grants calamity loan to ‘Pablo’ victims

Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy , Northern Mindanao

Mayor Amante leads Pamaskong Handog 2012 distribution 23 Maria Luisa Dianah Z. Generalao, Caraga Region

ZSPPO donates relief goods to victims of typhoon ‘Pablo’Gideon C. Corgue, Western Mindanao28

Irene Joy Dayo, Northern Mindanao

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11

13

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Army holds dialogue with local leaders in Marawi City ARMM20

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25Hedcor contributes 600,000 trees for reforestationHedcor, Southern Mindanao

29

3035

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Wednesday, December 26, 20124

Camiguin is one of the most majestic places to visit in the country. It does not only exude in natural beauty but it is one of the most peaceful places anywhere in the world. Known to be a pear-shaped volcanic island of Mindanao, it accommodates 83, 807 inhabitants according to 2010 census. In fact, Camiguin is the smallest province in Northern Mindanao with land area of 29, 187 hectares. Despite its limitations in terms of proximity, tourists, divers, nature seekers among others still long for the serene environment and bountiful underwater adventures it can offer. The government is

Camiguin is simply beautiful!

Awesome! Perfect! Amazing!’ are just some

of the adjectives tourist guides exclaim after taking pictures of visitors and tourists at Mantigue Island in Camiguin. With huge smiles and great pride of the Island where they were born and nurtured, anyone visiting the place would feel so welcome and so at home.

by Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat

Wednesday, December 26, 2012 5

Camiguin is simply beautiful! very careful at making it an eco-friendly region to maintain nature’s gift devoid of the nasty effects of urbanization and extreme commercialization. In fact, Islands such as Mantigue and the White Island are still handled by the local government in Camiguin. Prices are still affordable and best of all, beaches are still pure and blue. Perhaps this is the one thing that differentiates Camiguin from all other tourist spots in the country. It still remains to be laid back at the same time pure in all of its sense. Camiguin is dominated by seven volcanoes namely Mt. Hibok Hibok, Mt. Mambajao, Mt. Guinsiliban, Mt. Timpoong, Mt. Vulcan, Mt. Uhay and Mt. Tres Marias. Out of these, Mt. Hibok-Hibok is still considered active. In fact, its last eruption was in 1951 leaving 3,000 dead of boiling lava, poisonous gases and landslides. Nevertheless, all of these volcanoes are the reason why Camiguin looks and feels the way it is today. Residents still live and continue living in the area. Among the most sought after and looked forward experience in Camiguin is its hot and cold springs. As result of volcanic eruptions in the past, people can enjoy swimming or just relaxing in either its hot or cold waters. Ardent Hot Spring is at the foot of Hibok-Hibok volcano where mineral pool can be enjoyed. The water coming from the said mountain produces curls of steam rising from its warm running waters. This is especially best for people needing a hot bath since it relaxes and relieves back pain.


Sto. Niño Cold Springs and Bura Natural Soda Water Swimming Pool in Catarman are also some of the most exciting places to go. It introduces first time tourists of a very cold pool. It’s not covered with ice but a natural body of very cold water coming out of the land. It is perfect for those who desire cool and cold waters. And who can deny the grandeur of waterfalls in the area? Katibawasan falls is just one of the most adorable falls in the country. It is 250 ft from the ground and cascades to a pool surrounded by green leaves and enormous trees. Visitors can take a dip in the water and submerge oneself to the wonders of nature. Religious and simply curious individuals can also visit the sunken cemetery or old churches in the Island. They expose the true tradition and culture of Camiguin which centers in the religious faith and conservative beliefs.

For individuals who desire night scenes, they are not that much in Camiguin. Clubs are not that popular either. People live simply and as opposed to an urban life, coming here is an escape from the noisy and busy life in the metro. Anyone can reflect, watch the sunset, gaze at the stars or walk by the beach in the evening or have a swim in one of the chlorine-free pools available. Camiguin to put simply is an Island with no complications, no stress from city traffic, no noise from hustle and bustle of a cramped Monday morning; it is simply the way it is, still and beautiful.


ACROSS THE NATIONPNP cracks whip on illegal firecracker manufacturers

In line with its efforts to minimize injuries and death on New Year’s Eve, National Police head Director General Alan Purisima ordered a nationwide crackdown on illegally

manufactured firecrackers nationwide.

8 Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Purisima has instructed all police commanders to conduct raids on shops making and selling firecrackers that are not up to government safety standards.

“We are very concerned of the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic materials and that is why are joining forces with the Dept. of Health in reducing firecracker-related injuries,” the PNP chief stressed.

“While the DOH will take the task of massive information drive, we in the PNP will focus on the enforcement of laws that will help in reducing to the lowest level the casualty figure,” he added.

Last Monday, police seized illegal fireworks worth P91,000 in just a day’s operation in Bocaue, Bulacan, where the banned items continue to be manufactured and sold.

Bocaue is a popular destination for revelers at this time of the year, as it is known for its fireworks industry.

According to the report, the PNP’s Firearms and Explosives Office has only given permits to 57 firecracker manufacturers and 264 dealers.

The office also has 331 pending

applications for permits to sell firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials.

The PNP is to continue its random inspections of firecracker stalls for the holidays.

Purisima warned all police commanders against being negligent in the job of running after wrongdoers in the firecracker industry, saying he will not hesitate to relieve those found remiss in their duties.

But he clarified that firecracker-related raids and other operations should be police station-directed, even urging the public to report policemen who are conducting raids of their own.


‘Quinta’ weakens into tropical depression, 14 provinces under storm warning signal No.1 -PAGASA

The state weather bureau on Wednesday

downgraded “Quinta” into a tropical depression and only 13 areas from former 31 remained under storm signal number one.

10 Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecaster Samuel Duran said Quinta has also accelerated and may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility(PAR)on Thursday night.

“Si Quinta ay humina, ngayon tropical depression na lang,” Duran said adding that Quinta now has maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour(kph) and no more gustiness.

Duran said that as of 10:00 a.m., Quinta was estimated at the vicinity of Roxas City, Capiz and moving west at 24 kph.

PAGASA, on its 11:00 a.m. update, said Quinta is expected to be at 270 km west of Coron, Palawan on Thursday morning.

He said areas under storm signal no. 1 are Mindoro provinces, Romblon, Masbate, Burias Island,Northern Palawan, Calamian Group of Islands, Marinduque, Aklan, Capiz, Antique, Iloilo, Negros provinces, Cebu and

Guimaras.Public Storm Warning Signal

elsewhere now lowered, the weather agency said.

PAGASA advised residents living in low lying and mountainous areas under public storm warning signal 1 are alerted against possible flashfloods and landslides.


The hard part of carrying out rehabilitation and reconstruction of areas ravaged by super typhoon Pablo

requires integration of all strategies and resources, says Mindanao Development Authority chair Luwalhati Antonino.

MinDA cites integrated approach to rebuild Pablo-hit areas

In a meeting with U.S. Ambassador Harry Thomas, Jr. and officials of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) at the Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) Program Office here

recently, Antonino stressed the need for greater coordination in doing medium and long term programs.

The meeting was also attended by Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Soliman and Governors


Arturo Uy and Corazon Malanyaon of Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental, respectively.

“We need all hands on deck to do the job of bringing normalcy to the lives of affected families and to move ahead with rehabilitation and reconstruction,” Antonino said, adding that, “the broader scale of medium and long term interventions entail greater integration.”

As immediate needs of affected families such as food, shelter and other basic necessities are currently being address by the DSWD with support from international development partners and private volunteer organizations, MinDA together with LGUs of affected provinces and other key agencies are starting to put together plans for early recovery and long term reconstruction.

“With the extent of damage that we now see unfold, it’s out of the question that there is much that needs to be done to bring back what typhoon Pablo has taken away, in terms of livelihood and employment opportunities,” she said.

A report made by MinDA noted that the initial impact assessment pointed to significant pull down

of agricultural output including export oriented commodities, and a projected dent on Mindanao’s overall agri-industry performance.

It recorded a total value loss in production of P25.8 billion due to damages that cover total or partial destruction of physical assets existing in the affected area. Its monetary value is expressed in terms of replacement costs according to prices prevailing just before the event.

MinDA also noted the expected value losses of P9.6 billion for 2013, which cover employment (direct and indirect), businessmen’s income, losses from rental of lands and other related services.

“It bears to point out that the hard hit areas of Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental are among the top producing agricultural provinces of the country, especially banana, coconut and other high value commodities,” according to MinDA.

It added that the next two to three years of rehabilitation and reconstruction will certainly need to have strong focus on reviving the agri-industry strength of these areas to provide greater employment opportunities and catch-up growth.


NKTI, PIA conduct Kidney Disease Prevention advocacy in Bukidnonby Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat

MALAYBALAY, Bukidnon -- The National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI), in cooperation with the Philippine Information Agency 10 (PIA) and the Renal Disease Control Program (Redcop) of the Department of Health (DOH) conducted a media forum as an advocacy on Kidney Disease Prevention here, Dec. 19.

Dr. Apollo A. Tenorio of the Internal Medicine said there are two types of Kidney diseases particularly acute and chronic. Acute kidney diseases can be acquired through bacterial infection such as Leptospirosis and can be reversed through proper medication.

However chronic is for life. Persons affected by chronic kidney disease have two options to live longer; one is organ transplant preferred for young individuals and second is dialysis. There are set of parameters where such disease can be manifested.


Army’s gift-giving, feeding activities benefit former rebels in BukidnonMALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon - Hundreds of former rebels and indigenous people benefited from the two-day gift giving and feeding activities of the 8th Infantry ‘Dependable’ Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (8th INF BN, 4ID, PA) conducted recently in a remote village of Kibongkog in San Fernando and barangay Kalabugao in Impasug-ong town, this province.

by Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy

Lieutenant Col. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, Commanding Officer, 8th INF BN, 4ID, PA, who facilitated the event, said the gifts were mostly clothing and toys. “It is very heartwarming to see former rebels who enjoyed receiving gifts with their families, especially children,” Cuerpo said.

They were also served “chicken arrozcaldo (ginger-flavored rice and chicken delicacy)” while queuing for their turns to receive gifts. Cuerpo explained that the event is a nationwide approach, which seeks to bring a combined effort among stakeholders to help alleviate poverty and address some root causes of

Indicators that a person may acquire or have kidney problem are anemia, hypertension, swelling of body, only lets out little amounts of urine, and skin have dark pigmentation among others. Patients who have severe chronic kidney disease can avail of Peretonial Dialysis and Hemodialysis. In Bukidnon, the Malaybalay Polymedic General Hospital can provide facilities for these types of dialysis. According to Rowell Feliciano, Hemodialysis nurse in Malaybalay Polymedic that there are normally 45 sessions of dialysis of a chronic kidney disease patient. Philhealth members can avail of discount paying only P600 to P700 per session.

He added that various public personnel and organizations are also helping financially like the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Without any monetary help form any of these groups, a patient will have to pay regular dialysis session from P2, 800 to P3, 500. Sessions depend from two times or three times a week, he said. Carmen Lubguban, Redcop coordinator in Northern Mindanao also revealed that such disease is one of the 10 leading causes of death in the country. In region 10, there are 138 patients recorded in the first quarter, 152 for the second and 147 during the third quarter. And it is ranked 7th deadly disease in the region.


Army’s gift-giving, feeding activities benefit former rebels in Bukidnon

Pag-IBIG Fund grants calamity loan to ‘Pablo’ victimsby Irene Joy DayoCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Pag-IBIG Fund Cagayan de Oro City Branch is now offering calamity loans to members who were affected by typhoon Pablo.

Juliano S. Banghal, Department Manager III, said members who are currently employed may already apply for the calamity loan once they have submit their duly accomplished Pag-IBIG Fund Calamity Loan application form and the documentary requirements to their company’s respective Fund Coordinators (FCs) or Human Resource Officers (HROs) or Authorized Representatives. These documentary requirements include Declaration of Being Affected By Calamity, duly signed by the Head of Office or the Authorized Representative of the Company/Agency, photocopy of 2 valid Identification Cards, duly

authenticated by the by the Head of Office or the Authorized Representative of the company/agency and Certificate of Net Take Home Pay, duly signed by the Head of Office or the Authorized Representative of the company/agency. FCs and HROs are then advised to facilitate the submission of the aforementioned documents together with a corresponding transmittal listing of the complete names of the Calamity Loan applicants. Further, FCs and HROs may pass these documents to either Mr. Abas or to Ms. Elizabeth Amarille, Chief of Division at the Pag-IBIG Fund Malaybalay Extension Office.

insurgency. “In our efforts to promote army’s commitment to peace and development in relation to “IPSP Bayanihan,” this activity is wholeheartedly offered to the community, especially those living in depressed and affected areas confronted with threats from Section Committee 89 and Guerilla Front 6 of the New People’s Army. People should know that military operations, force, weapons and guns could not solely solve insurgency. A

concerted effort is needed to address problems on poverty, malnutrition, and deprivation in order to achieve lasting peace in the province, Cuerpo said. Hon. Laurencia Edma, Mayor of San Fernando municipality and Impasug-ong town mayor Hon. Mario Okinlay, expressed gratitude to the 8th INF BN, 4ID, PA team who made every effort to bring such kind of laudable services to their constituents.


DOLE 12 clarifies minimum wage rateBy Dani DoguilesKORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) 12 explained that as of December 1, 2012, min-imum wage rate of workers in the non-agriculture sector in Soccsksargen Region remains at P270 a day.

The amount, according to an RTWPB 12 advisory, consists separately of P260 basic wage and P10 cost of living allowance (COLA).

RTWPB 12, chaired by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 12 director Chona Mantilla, released on Friday Advisory Note No. 1 series of 2012 to clarify the new minimum wage rate that mandated a second tranche of COLA starting on December 1, this year.

Mantilla said,

RTWPB 12 and DOLE 12 have recently received a number letters of inquiry and clarification from labor and management groups, particularly non-agriculture sector regarding the new

minimum wage.“They have asked

whether the new minimum wage rate effective December 1 will have integration of COLA amounting to P10 to the basic wage rate amounting to


DOLE 12 clarifies minimum wage rate

P260 or will it be the same where the basic wage is still P260 and the COLA amounting to P10 will remain,” she said.

These queries, she said, warranted the issuance of an additional guidance.

The advice said “that effective December 1, 2012, the implementation of the second tranche for additional cost of living allowance as reflected on Wage Order No. RB XII 17 for agriculture and retail/service establishment shall be strictly observed,” and “that the minimum wage rate for the non-agriculture sector will still be P270 and where P260 of it is the basic wage and the remaining P10 is the cost of living allowance.”

Basic wage, as defined in the order’s rules of implementation means “all the remunerations or earnings paid by an employer to worker for services rendered on normal working days

and hours, but does not include cost of living allowances, profit sharing investments, premium payments, 13th month pay, and other monetary benefits which are not considered as part or integrated into the regular salary.

Jesse dela Cruz, secretary of the RTWPB 12 said it is necessary for them to clarify the issue because some non-agriculture establishments in the region have computed the 13th month pay of their employees based on the P270 minimum wage - including the COLA -- instead of the P260 basic wage only.

“ A l t h o u g h this situation is advantageous to the workers who will get more for their 13th month pay, there might be problems on the computation of other benefits, premiums and other obligation that the companies should pay for their workers,” dela Cruz explained.

Wage Order No. RB XII - 17 was approved last March 26 and

became effective on April 18.

Said wage order mandated the integration of the P15/day COLA across sectors ordered in Wage Order No. RB XII - 16 into the new basic wage.

Thus, upon effectivity of the order, basic wage in Soccsksargen Region stood at P260 for workers in non-agriculture sector, P240 for those in agriculture plantation, P235 in agriculture non-plantation, P240 in retail/service establishments with more than 10 workers and P234 in retail/service establishments with not more than 10 workers.

It also ordered a new COLA to be given in two portions, the first upon the order’s effectivity on April 18 and the second on December 1.

Unlike in the agriculture and retail/service establishments, however, the COLA of P10 for the workers in the non-agriculture


Health official urges fathers, uncles to keep children safe from firecrackersBy Dani Doguiles

sector was granted in a single tranche starting April 18.

In the first tranche, workers in the agriculture (plantation and non-plantation) sector were granted new COLA of P8/day while those in the retail/service sector, regardless of the number of employees were granted COLA of P6/day.

In the second tranche, additional P4 and P6 COLA were ordered for workers in the agriculture plantation and non-plantation sectors,

respectively. Additional P4 was granted to workers in retail/service establishments employing more than 10 persons and P6 to those with not more 10 persons.

Dela Cruz explained that even with the second tranche of COLA, basic salary has remained at the level when the order was implemented on April 18.

However, he explained, minimum wage, which includes the basic wage and the COLA, in Soccsksargen Region now stands at P270 for workers in non-agriculture sector,

P252 for those in agriculture plantation, P249 in agriculture non-plantation, P250 in retail/service establishments with more than 10 workers and P246 in retail/service establishments with not more than 10 workers.

Soccsksargen Region covers the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani as well as the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan, and Cotabato. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato-- South Cotabato’s health chief has ap-pealed to fathers and uncles and other men in families to keep the safety of children a primary concern when they light firecrackers and pyrotechnics to celebrate the holiday season.

“Our appeal especially to fathers and uncles is to be responsible in their use of firecrackers so as not to put children and other people in danger,” Dr. Rogelio Aturdido Jr., head of the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) said.

They should also refrain from lighting firecrackers when they are drunk, he added.

“Ninety-seven percent of the 57 firecracker incidents in the province last year occured within the vicinity of households,” he said, meaning that older persons were present when the incidents happened.

“Of the 57 cases last year, 26 are children ages 5 to 10 years old,” he said. Of these children, 20 were actively involved in lighting the


Health official urges fathers, uncles to keep children safe from firecrackers

firecracker.Piccolo, kwitis, and

triangle were the leading causes of injuries.

Dr. Aturdido added that more than 50 percent of the firecracker-related cases recorded in Soccksargen Region in 2012 were from South Cotabato.

S o c c s k s a r g e n Region covers South Cotabato, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato as well as the cities General Santos City, Kidapawan, Koronadal, Tacurong and Cotabato.

Of the 11 local government units in South Cotabato only the nearby municipality of Tantangan had zero f i r e c ra c ke r - r e l a t ed accidents and injuries in the past two years.

“Other LGUs should take the example of Tantangan as a model in fight against firecracker,” Dr. Aturdido said. He, however, did not elaborate on the measures that Tantangan LGU implemented to attain zero firecracker incident.

This year, the IPHO started its “Iwas Paputok” campaign

earlier than the date set by the Department of Health to reach more children in its anti-firecracker campaign while the children are still in school.

At least 18 tarpaulins featuring a child’s blood-soaked hands with some fingers missing were posted in front of central schools across the province.

More campaign tarpaulins carrying the same message have also been posted in conspicuous places in Koronadal City and other municipalities.

These carry the five reminders to prevent harm and injury in the 2011 DOH APIR (Aksyon: Paputok Injury Reduction) campaign: 1) mapanganib ang paggamit ng paputok (the use of firecrackers is dangerous); 2) lahat ng paputok ay bawal sa bata (all kinds of firecrackers are not allowed for children); 3) umiwas sa mga taong nagpapaputok (keep safe and away from people using fireworks); 4) Huwag mamulot ng mga di sumabog na paputok (never pick up used firecrackers); and, 5) Magpagamot kaagad

kapag naputukan (seek immediate medical treatment for all firework injuries).

These also feature the simple tips for a complete and stress-free celebration: 1) itaguyod at makilahok sa Community Fireworks Display (promote and participate in the community fireworks display in your area); 2) magdiwang nang ligtas kasama ang pamilya (celebrate a safe holiday with family and loved ones); 3) lumikha ng ingay gamit ang ibang paraan tulad ng torotot, busina, lata at iba pa (use alternative noise-makers to welcome the New Year like car horns, cans, pots and pans, radio music, etc); 4) makisaya sa ibang paraan tulad ng street party, concert, palaro at iba pa (join merry-making activities such as street parties, concerts, games); and 5) magmuni-muni ng mga aral ng taong nakaraan at pag-isipan ang mga hakbanging tungo sa mas masaganang 2013 (use the time to reflect on the lessons of the past year and make resolutions for a better 2013).


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TUCP, JILAF train 35 union leaders on industrial relations, productivity, LMC

TAGAYTAY CITY -- Some 35 youth and trade union leaders from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao coming from sectors identified as key employment generators have completed the National Workshop on Industrial Relations (IR), Productivity and Labor Management Cooperation (LMC), focusing on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Collective Bargaining.

by Fryan E. Abkilan

Led by the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP-ITUC) and supported by the Japan

International Labor Foundation (JILAF), the five-day program held in this city aimed to present


developments in CSR practices, particularly in the workplace and interrelationship between CSR and core labor standards; highlight the exchange of Japanese and Philippine productivity improvement activities and practices; introduce the enhanced 5S, Kaizen and their contributions to realizing productivity; improve ways of utilizing collective bargaining and dialogue to enhance productivity; and design actions plans to localize and implement trade union-led productivity activities. TUCP Vice President Milagros Ogalinda was happy and elated with JILAF’s technical assistance and sustained support with the TUCP and for assisting and building the capacities and competencies of trade union leaders on productivity, industrial relations and LMCs. “With this training, we are given another opportunity to better understand current labor and employment challenges and hopefully improve our ability to address these challenges,” Ogalinda added. Meantime, JILAF Asst. Gen. Secretary Kennichi Kumagai, during the opening ceremony, shared the history of JILAF as a non-

government organization, its role and advocacies. “JILAF was established by RENGO (Japanese Trade Union Confederation) in May 1989 as an organization to promote international exchange and cooperation in the field of labor by promoting free and democratic union.” The Foundation has carried out a variety of international support activities based on the principle of “development cooperation” and “mutual interaction with our working friends in all over the world.” Kumagai revealed that the Philippines has been one of the major countries selected in organizing their joint productivity programs. Kumagai said they were able to integrate the ‘Progress’ program or the Role of Trade Unions in Empowerment and Strategic Steps to Decent Work in this activity, which is an action-oriented model initiative which integrates basic strategies on labor standards, productivity movement, labor management, and social dialogue and productivity-enhancing methods through 5S, kaizen and collective bargaining. The said program was piloted and introduced in the country last year.


Remote barangays in seven municipalities in Agusan del Sur get access to safe drinking water

AGUSAN DEL SUR -- Nineteen remote barangays from seven municipalities in Agusan del Sur now have access to safe drinking water after separate simple turn- over rites were held in various barangays early this month.

by David M. Suyao

Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Allan Santiago, team leader of the project called Tubig Imnunon Natong Agusanon (TINA) said the upgraded bio-sand water filter facility is the best means in addressing the sad plight of residents in outskirt villages who get water from open sources that pose health hazards being prone to water–borne diseases. Engineer Pamela D. Yucosing,

Agusan del Sur provincial engineer, said prior to the project implementation, their office conducts capability training to teach beneficiaries of their responsibilities to sustain the project. “Before the project turn-over, villagers have to contend with drinking water from unsafe sources like, spring, rain collectors, deep well (locally known as atabay) and wells they dug near their homes, while others trek


Remote barangays in seven municipalities in Agusan del Sur get access to safe drinking water

Mayor Amante leads Pamaskong Handog 2012 distributionby Maria Luisa Dianah Z. Generalao

BUTUAN CITY -- Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. leads this year’s “Pamaskong Handog” distribution in the different villages (barangays) here.

kilometers just to fetch water for their daily use”, Yucosing said. Each bio-sand water filter facility costs P140,000. For this year, the provincial government has budgeted 2.9 million for the project. The barangays which received the said facility are Mapaga, Lacaridad, Napo, New Maug, and Purok 5 of Patin-ay, all in Prosperidad town for District 1. For District 2, Barangay 1, Borbon, Rizal, and Tagapua of San Francisco; Tagbayagan, Maligaya, San Roque, and Manat in Trento; Mambalili and Poblacion of Bunawan; Aurora and

Tapas of Sta. Josefa; Panagangan and Sagunto of La Paz and Buena Gracia of Talacogon. Recipients expressed their gratitude to the TINA project as it answered their long time need for stable potable water supply. They committed to eagerly look after the facility to ensure its sustainability. Yucosing said, by order of Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza, next year’s project allocation is P3.5 million to be sourced out from the 20% Provincial Development Fund.


A total of 21,000 thousand “Pamaskong Handog” gift packs prepared by the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) Office are now being distributed following a schedule that started Monday, Dec. 17, 2012 until Friday, Dec. 21, 2012. These gift packs consist of 3 kilos rice and several canned goods. They are to be given to the less fortunate constituents of every village which have already been identified by its local council prior to the said distribution. Mayor Amante said in his speech during the distribution in Brgy. Baan Riverside that the City Government would have given more, hadn’t the neighboring province of Compostela Valley been struck by the recent calamity brought about by Typhoon Pablo. Mayor Amante sees it proper and necessary for us to share what we have with the affected people in Compostela Valley. He added that we are very lucky there hasn’t been any major damage caused to us by the typhoon, and sharing whatever we can possibly give could be our

way of thanking the Lord for sparing Butuan. The northern part of Mindanao was struck by Typhoon Pablo Dec. 4, 2012, making a landfall in one of the towns in Compostela Valley and leaving the whole province typhoon-wrecked. Mayor Amante hopes that with the distribution of these gifts packs, no family would have an empty table come Christmas Day and that somehow, the City Government has contributed to making the holidays for these families more meaningful. For information on the “Pamaskong Handog” Distribution Schedule, the CSWD Office can be reached thru landline numbers 815-2216 and 342-5250, and can be visited at J. Rosales Ave., Butuan City.


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RDRRMC-OCD holds year-end conference, Gawad Kalasag Regional AwardsPAGADIANCITY – The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) and the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) Regional Office 9 recently conducted a year-end conference and 2012 Gawad Kalasag Regional Awards held in Pagadian Bay Plaza Hotel, this city.

By Claro A. Lanipa


OCD 9 Regional Director Adriano D. Fuego in his welcome address said, “ it is indeed a privilege that you were able to attend this conference. Another year is about to end and this is a great opportunity to come together and look back to the year 2012.” Meanwhile, Dir. Fuego also disclosed that this is the first time that they have given awards to the best prepared province, city, municipality and non-government organizations (NGOs) heroes in the region. The Regional Gawad Kalasag Awardees for 2012 were as follows: Zamboanga del Norte as the Best Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Dipolog City as the Best City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and Molave, Zamboanga del Sur as the Best Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. The awardees received a plague of appreciation and a check amounting to P30,000 each. For the Best Volunteer Organization and Hospital, the Organized Radio Assistance and Communication Information Services (ORACIS) and Zamboanga City Medical Center (ZCMC) was adjudged as the Best Volunteer Organization and Best Hospital (Regional & Training) respectively, they were given a plague of appreciation. And for the Heroic Act/Deed during emergency response


and rescue operations (individual category) the following were given a plague of appreciation; Karon Esmali, Ricky Buyser, Constantino Soriano, Jr. and Edwin Casalan all of Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte. OCD Undersecretary and Executive Director of NDRRMC Benito T. Ramos who was ably represented by BGen. Romeo Fajardo, Deputy Administrator of OCD as the guest of honor and speaker congratulated the RDRRMC for Region 9 under the

leadership of Director Adriano Fuego for a job well done in making this fiscal year a very productive one for the disaster risk reduction and management advocacy. “Let us heighten our watchfulness against any salient calamity, so that even it becomes like a thieve in the night we shall be ready and therefore, I urge you to maintain vigilant and be pro-active,” Fajardo said.


Provincial director Senior Superintendent Romeo Uy said he ordered Senior Inspector Simplicio Pasaol Jr., chief of PPO Community Relations Division to transport at once boxes of noodles and canned goods, bundles of clothes and other materials to the PNP regional office in Zamboanga City. The goods were gathered from the 24 municipal police stations after the assistance call was made by the

then outgoing PNP chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome. Uy said he directed all chiefs of police to sympathize with the victims of typhoon “Pablo” by sharing and donating relief goods to the victims. The goods, Uy said will be delivered first to the PNP regional office and it will be turned-over to ABS-CBN after all relief goods from the PNP provincial offices are sent in the region.

PAGADIAN CITY – The Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office (ZSPPO) sent relief goods for victims of typhoon ‘Pablo” that ravaged the province of Compostela Valley and killed more than a thousand people on December 4.

ZSPPO donates relief goods to victims of typhoon ‘Pablo’ By Gideon C. Corgue


Hataman cites educational gains in ARMMBy Apipa P Bagumbaran

Autonomous Region in Muslim

Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman bared the concrete gains his administration has achieved to improve the quality of education in the region.

In his first State of the Region’s Address last week, Hataman cited the educational reforms his administration has instituted that resulted to the eradication of ghost students and teachers and huge savings for the regional government. He said the ARMM Government boldly addressed the problems of teachers regarding the payment of loans and benefits from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) by talking to and forging an agreement with the GSIS management.

The Department of Education (DepEd)-ARMM, he said, has settled the P5-million debts of the Marawi City Division and the P14-million debts of Basilan Division. Hataman said they are now in the process of paying the some P1.9-billion debts of the department to the GSIS. The Governor also announced that the DepEd-ARMM, in the implementation of financial reforms, has saved P224,227,269.90 which will be used in paying the salary


Army holds dialogue with local leaders in Marawi City

and backpays of teachers. DepEd-ARMM has also generated P135 million that may be utilized for the repair of classrooms and purchase of school chairs, he added. Citing statistics from the Enhanced Basic Education Information System, Hataman said the region lacked 5,057 classrooms, 3,479 teachers, and almost half billion of school chairs in 2011. He, however, announced that DepEd-ARMM has launched programs and projects dubbed “37 Firsts of DepEd-ARMM” to raise the quality of education in the region. Included in these are various support and training assistance from different organizations such as PLDT-SMART Foundation, SEAMEO-INNOTECH, Synergia, AMORE, AAI, UNICEF, GIZed-Fit For School, USAID

and Ronald McDonald, as well as the construction of learning centers in remote areas by BRAC. Hataman said the Australian government is also actively supporting the region and has provided P3.97 billion through the Basic Education Assistance for Muslim Mindanao Program which includes early childhood and basic education, school health, techvoc training for out-of-school youth. The Governor also made mentioned that a total of 6,540 scholars are currently benefiting from the programs of the Technical Educational and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) while 607 are being served by the scholarship program of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).


The 65th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army conducted a pulong-pulong with the councilors, barangay officials and other stakeholders from Marawi City, last week.

The dialogue, held at the Battalion’s Headquarters here, was aimed to inform the local leaders about the present peace and order situation and other security issues and concerns the entire province is currently facing. Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Seigred J. Espina said during the dialogue that the role of the army, particularly his troops, is to promote peace and order. He said the army is also mandated

to protect the lives of the people from those engaging in criminal practices that impedes peace and progress in the province. Espina also reiterated that there are many things each and every community member can do to eradicate criminality. These include encouraging the residents to feed information to local authorities and telling others to venture into new legal endeavours, he added. (65th IB, PA)


Photo gallery

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman distributes relief goods to victims of typhoon pablo in New Bataan, Compostela Valley on Friday, Dec. 21 during the ARMM Solidarity Mission. Pablo affected 16 barangays and has 10,673 families affected. Hataman and officials from the departments of Health, Social Welfare and Development and IPHO Lanao distribute more than 5,000 relief packs and conducted medical mission. (ARMM Comm Group)

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman (3rd from left) receives briefing from New Bataan Mayor Lorenzo Balvi (left) during the ARMM Solidarity Mission in Compostela Valley on Friday, December 21. With Hataman are (l-r) DSWD-ARMM Assistant Sec Pombaen Karon Kadir, DOH AFRMM Secre-tary Kadil Sinolinding (partly hidden) and IPHO Lanao del Sur Chief Dr Minalang. (ARMM Comm Group)

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman being interviewed by TV5 during the relief operation at New Bataan, Com-postela Valley on Friday, December 21.


DAVAO CITY – The typhoon-af-fected families in the provinces of Davao Oriental, Compostela Val-ley, Davao Del Norte and Davao City received ‘noche buena’ pres-ents on December 22 and 23. Spearheaded by the Social Welfare Department, the gift-giving in the towns of Compostela and New Bataan, Compostela

Valley on Saturday was led by cabinet m e m b e r s – C o r a z o n J u l i a n o -S o l i m a n of DSWD, R o s a l i n d a D. Baldoz of DOLE, L u w a l h a t i Antonino of MINDA, and N D R R M C E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r

Benito Ramos. DSWD has assigned teams in every municipality to supervise the distribution and each team has stationed 2-3 workers in the designated distribution sites in the town. The distribution was conducted in coordination with the local government unit. Some 173,000 packs shall have been

‘Pablo’ victims get ‘noche buena’ packs


delivered by Sunday, December 23.Each ‘noche Buena’ pack contains 1 ½ kilos bihon, 2 cans corned beef, 2 packs fudgee bar, 1 bottle sandwich spread, 1 can fruit cocktail, 1 can condensed milk, 1 box cheese, 1 pack choco candies and 1 piece malong which will be used to package the goods. “Dako akong pasalamat kay makatabang gyud ni sa akong pamilya. Nalipay ko kay ang gobyerno nagpakabana sa among kalisdanan. Di ko moingon nga blue Christmas, white lang gihapon. Pasalamat ko kay ang kinabuhi nasalbar so white Christmas dyud (I am so grateful because this would really help my family. I am happy that government is concerned in our suffering. I won’t say it’s blue Christmas, but it’s white still. I am thankful because lives were saved so definitely it’s white Christmas),” shares Bernabe Bacalso, 65, of Purok 2, Compostela Proper. Bernabe is a Cebuano who migrated to Compostela. He said his ‘purok’ was the worst-hit. Most of those who queue up at NIA Compound for the gift-giving on Saturday were residents of Purok 2. The muddy water that penetrated Bernabe’s

house was neck-deep. Gina Melallos, 43, also of Purok 2 said, “Salamat dyud kaayo og dako sa regalo nga among nadawat karong adlawa (Thank you so much for the gift we got today).” Gina has also received clothes donations earlier. She now uses her linoleum floormat as kitchen roofing as the original roof was snatched during the typhoon rampage. Gina’s husband works as a contractual banana plantation worker and drives a motorcycle on the side. “Salamat kay nakadawat mi og pi naskuhan gikan sa DSWD (Thanks so much because we received a Christmas present from DSWD), Alberta ‘Daday’ Maquiling gratefully enthused. Daday has 6 children and now occupies one room in the newly-completed bunkhouse in Compostela Proper. Despite the heavy rains last Saturday, affected families flock to the distribution sites just to get their Christmas present and make their Noche Buena more festive.Be a volunteer! DSWD needs you! Join hundreds of volunteers in repacking relief goods at the Disaster Relief Operations Center at the DPWH Depot, Panacan, Davao City. (DSWD/carmela cadigal-duron)


Hedcor contributes 600,000 trees for reforestationDAVAO CITY– Run-of-river hy-dropower developer Hedcor has planted more than 600,000 trees to date. The milestone was reached during this year’s reforestation activities in Benguet, Ilocos Sur, Davao City and Davao del Sur. This year alone, the company planted close to 300,000 trees. Over the years, Hedcor has consistently planted trees to contribute to the protection and conservation of watersheds. Every employee takes part in the environmental effort. Each team member is committed to plant at least 20 seedlings every year.The company’s vice president for Business Development Gregorio Jabonillo said, “Our commitment is to plant more trees and allow them the best chances of survival. This is pursuant to our watershed management plan.” He added, “Our reforestation efforts contribute to retaining water and prevent flooding and erosion.”Hedcor’s watershed management

plan includes programs like reforestation, riverbank stabilization, agro-forestry, and roadside rehabilitation.The hydro developer partners with its host communities to ensure the protection and survival of planted trees. For trees planted by the company, the survival rate is at 90%. This is above the target survival rate of 80% set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The hydro company’s practices and compliance with environmental policies earned another Seal of Approval from the DENR pursuant to the latter’s Philippine Environment Partnership Program or PEPP. The company is also ISO-certified for its Environment Management System. Hedcor is a wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower. It has 19 hydropower plants in Benguet, Ilocos Sur, Davao City and Davao del Sur with a total capacity of 155 megawatts. (Hedcor)

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