one mindanao - february 25, 2015

EDITORIAL ADVISERS

SEC. SONNY B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information Agency

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

EFREN F. ELBANBUENACluster Head, Southern, Western and Central MindanaoRegional Director, PIA Region XI

MANAGING EDITOR ABNER M. CAGACluster Head, Northern & Northeastern MindanaoRegional Director - PIA Caraga Region

REGIONAL DESK EDITORS FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IX

ALMA L. TINGCANG, PIA Region IX ELAINE O. RATUNIL, PIA Region X RUDOLPH IAN G. ALAMA, PIA Region XI DANNY E. DOGUILES, PIA Region XII FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region

COPY EDITORS

FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga Region

SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST

GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region

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

SOCCSKSARGEN Region

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]

Northern Mindanao

Graces’ Building, Antonio Luna StreetCagayan de Oro City 9000Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594Telefax no. (08822) 72-66-83Cellphone no. 0928-5204305, 0917-3084969E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]: www.pia-10.blogspot.com

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)

J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phWebsite: www.piacaraga.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur, Pia Dinagat Islands Power FM - CaragaTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)

Ground Floor Kanto Motors Bldg.,Quimpo Blvd., New MatinaDavao City 8000Telephone no. (082) 297-0991 / 301-8580Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 / 304-2044Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950E-mail: [email protected]

LAYOUT ARTISTS

EMMANUEL D. TAGHOY, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region X

ZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region X

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

NOEMI B. EDAGARegional Director, PIA Region IX

THELMA B. OLIVERRegional Director, PIA Region X

OLIVIA T. SUDARIARegional Director, PIA Region XII

EDITORIAL BOARD

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESOne Mindanao

CONTENTS

DTI urges public to avail services of accredited repair shops

DOLE-9 bats for convergence strategy to improve industry workers’ conditions in Zambo

13

17

2223 39

Caraga celebrates 20th anniversary, acknowledges RA 7901 authors By: Nora L. Molde

Gov’t has resources to prevent entry of infectious diseases, Palace says

President Aquino calls for continued support for Mindanao peace process

SurSur guv, treasurer pay tribute to concerned town officials, employees for superb tax collection

NBI, CIDG hailed for arrest of suspected child abuser, trafficker

Tangub police arrests 4 of city’s top 10 Most Wanted Persons in 2014

By: Rodrigo R. Matabaran

11

By: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

By: Danilo E. Doguiles

38

3335

Mindanao-based POs, international peace advocates hold peace dialogue

Board of Inquiry to visit ground zero of Mamasapano incident

By: Greg Tataro, Jr.

By: Dominic I. Sanchez

By: Vanessa Mae S. Siano

By: Rutchie C. Aguhob

Cover Story

CARAGA

WESTERN

NORTHERN

INFOCUS

SOCCSKSARGEN

ARMM

SOUTHERN

NATIONAL

30

26

DAVRAA 2015 opens, Mati City fully secure

ARMM people’s day offers free services to the public

By: Joey Sem G. Dalumpines

By: Bureau of Public Information-ARMM

8

1315

21

24

28

32

36

GSIS holds first Pensioners’ Day in Zamboanga Sibugay19By: Alma L. Tingcang

4 FEBRUARY 25, 2015One Mindanao

the Caraga Region or Region 13 celebrates its platinum anniversary Monday, February 23, 2015 in Butuan City.

By: Nora L. Molde

Caraga celebrates 20th anniversary, acknowledges RA 7901 authors

5FEBRUARY 25, 2015 One Mindanao

Caraga Region, which was created on February 23, 1995 through Republic Act (RA) 7901 otherwise known as “An Act Creating Region XIII to be known as the Caraga Administrative Region, and for other purposes,” is now 20 years old!

The celebration was started with a parade participated by the different regional line agencies, local government units and other partners early Monday morning.

On its 20th anniversary celebration, the authors of RA 7901 were recognized by the Regional Development Council (RDC) headed by its chairperson, Surigao del Norte governor Sol F. Matugas, during an opening program dubbed as “Caraga at 20” in one of the convention centers here. They are: BGen Charito B. Plaza, Dinagat Islands governor Glenda B. Ecleo, Dr. Mario S. Ty, Atty. Ceferino S.

Paredes Jr, and Hon. Jesnar R. Falcon. They were also given a token handed by the RDC chairperson Matugas, Agusan del Norte governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, and Butuan City vice mayor Angelo S. Calo representing mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr.

In her message, Gov. Matba, the first RDC chairperson of Caraga Region, recalled how the region started and how it reached its status now - being one of the fastest growing regions in the country today. “The progress of Caraga Region is the success of its people,” she said.

At 20, Caraga Region now stands tall because of the dedication and services of its officials and the Caraganons, Matba added.

The program was also highlighted by the RDC


chairperson’s State of the Region Address or SORA. In her SORA, governor Matugas acknowledged the contributions of the different sectors – the regional directors/officials for accepting the challenges and for making a notable changes in the region.

Regional director Brielgo O. Pagaran of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) also received an acknowledgement and token for remaining as regional director since 1995, the time Caraga Region was created. Also, during the program,

the winner of the “Be the Agent of Change” Jingle-Making Contest performed their winning piece.

A two-day Caraga Through the Years Exhibit and Trade Fair showcasing the products and services of the region was also held.

A Forum on Land Use Planning with the theme, “A better future for you, and me, think and act sustainably...” was held in the afternoon of Monday and was participated by the different planners regionwide.


Acknowledging the important role of media in the dissemination of information to the public, a press conference was also held right after the forum facilitated by the Philippine Information Agency - Caraga Region.

In the evening, a Fellowship Dinner was held with the Association of Caraga Executives (ACE) and members of the Regional Development Council with Barrio Fiesta as the motif. During the fellowship, the officers of the League of Planning and Development Coordinators (LLPDC) of the region took their oath of office. Aside from opening program

on Monday, other anniversary activities also include the 20th Caraga Regional Meet on February 23-27, 2015 hosted by the Department of Education Surigao del Sur Division held at the Surigao del Sur Sports Complex in Tandag City; Local Overseas Job Fair on February 25 - 27, 2015 in Claver in Surigao del Norte; Caraga Culinary Show on February 26-27, 2015 in Bayugan City.

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) also offers Free National Competency Assessment Services and Certification to government workers from February 23-27. Interested state workers may go or contact the nearest TESDA Provincial Offices in their area. Agusan del Norte- (085) 342-0085; Agusan del Sur- (085) 343-7278; Surigao del Norte- (086) 826-2591; Surigao del Sur- (086) 211-3957; Province of Dinagat Islands- 09161626348/ 09193506106.


Manila - President Benigno S. Aquino III led the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Awards ceremony held in Malacañang Palace on Tuesday to recognize the contributions of youth organizations to nation building.

President Aquino honors youth organizations in 12th TAYO Awards

In his speech, President Aquino said that as head of the country for the past four-and-a-half years, he has always known that he could not do much without the support of the people and other sectors.

“Sa nakalipas na mahigit apat at kalahating taon ng ating pamamahala, pinatunayan nating kapag mas marami tayong kumikilos, mas mabilis nating nakakamit ang ating hangarin,” he said.


“Dito ko nga naalala ang kaisipang ibinahagi sa akin: Kapag daw ang dunong ng mas nakakatanda at ang lakas ng kabataan ay nagsanib, talagang malayo ang ating mararating.”

After congratulating the winners of the TAYO awards, the President outlined the administration’s efforts to empower the youth to become more effective nation builders amid a strong economy.

He cited the Conditional Cash Transfer for High School Expansion program, which supports children of poor families until they reach 18 years old.

He reported that some 1.2 million students, aged 15 years old to 18 years old, are receiving assistance from the government so they could complete their high school education.

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is also actively helping the youth, he added.

From July 2010 to December 2014, some 774,532 people graduated under TESDA’s Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), the President said, noting that their employment rate from April to September last year was registered at 96 percent.

“Ginagawa natin ang lahat ng ito upang iangat ang antas ng pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na ang mga naghihikahos sa buhay. Sinasagad natin ang pagkakataon upang bigyan sila ng kakayahang tulungan ang mga sariling umasenso,” President Aquino said.

According to the Chief Executive, the real challenge is for the country to sustain the


gains and developments it has been enjoying.

“Paigtingin pa natin ang pagkakapit-bisig, at patibayin ang pundasyon ng isinusulong nating Pilipinas; isang bansa kung saan ang bawat isa ay may kakayahang tuparin ang inaasam niyang kinabukasan,” he said.

The winners of this year’s TAYO Awards were the Phi Lambda Delta Sorority; Kanlungan Pilipinas Movement; Rescue Assistance Peacekeeping Intelligence Detail (RAPID); the Cauayan City National High School-Red Cross Youth and Junior Rescue Team; Katipunan ng mga Kabataang Santiagueňo; ACCESS-PYLP Alumni Association; Move This World-Pilipinas; Youth for Environment in School Organization; Indigenous Youth Servant Leaders Association of the Philippines; and the University of San Agustin Little Theater. Apart from recognition, the

winning organizations receive a specially commissioned trophy sculpted by Toym de Leon Imao, and a grant of P50,000 to fund new projects or continue their long-term programs.

The TAYO Awards was organized by the National Youth Commission, the TAYO Awards Foundation Inc., the EDSA People Power Commission, Coca-Cola


Gov’t has resources to prevent entry of infectious diseases, Palace says

MANILA- Government measures are in place to fend off the entry of such contagious diseases as avian flu and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in the country, the Palace said on Tuesday.

Foundation, and Senator Bam Aquino.

Since its establishment in 2002, the TAYO Awards Foundation has recognized and supported the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to national development.

To date, more than a

thousand youth organizations have joined the search and have become part of the foundation’s growing youth network.

This year’s awarding ceremony is part of the celebration of the 29th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution that will be commemorated on Wednesday, February 25. (PCOO/PND (as)


“Nasa heightened alertness at preparedness ang ating Department of Health (DOH), simula pa noong halos isang taon na ang nakararaan, noong hinarap itong MERS Coronavirus,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said during the daily press briefing in Malacañang. The government, he said, has been successful in preventing the entry of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in the country in the past and is capable of implementing similar preventive measures at present. “Kaya batay sa mga binanggit ko, meron namang sapat na track record ang ating pamahalaan hanggang sa

kasalukuyan na gawin ang nararapat para mapanatiling malusog at ligtas ang ating mga mamamayan laban sa mga kinatatakutang sakit,” he said, adding that the Health Department has enough budget and resources to do its job. A Filipino who came from China has died after showing symptoms of bird flu, the DOH reported on Monday. The department did not conduct an autopsy on the victim as he was cremated. A few weeks ago, a Filipino nurse from Saudi Arabia was hospitalized due to MERS-CoV infection. She has since recovered from her illness after treatment. (PCOO/PND (as)


MANILA - President Benigno S. Aquino III is calling on Filipinos to continue supporting the peace process in Mindanao despite the Mamasapano incident.

President Aquino calls for continued support for Mindanao peace process

“Tandaan lang natin: Ang kaguluhan sa Mindanao ay nagdudulot ng kaguluhan sa ating lahat. Kaya naman obligasyon

ng bawat isa na itaguyod ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao,” the President said in his speech during the 29th EDSA Revolution

photo: gmanetwork.com


anniversary rites Wednesday.

President Aquino stressed this amid calls to stop the peace process in Mindanao and the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) following the Mamasapano clash that left 44 police commandos dead last Jan. 25.

“Ginintuan ngang maituturing ang pagkakataong ito, kung kailan abot-kamay na ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao. Sa mga nagsasabi na ihinto na ang peace process, at ang pagpapasa ng Bangsamoro Basic Law, ang tanong natin: Paano nila masisigurado na magkakaroon ulit ng ganitong oportunidad?,” he said.

The Chief Executive said these initiatives should not be outdone by anti-peace advocates, as this will only worsen turmoil in Mindanao.

“Kung isusuko natin ang pagtataguyod ng Bangsamoro, parang hinayaan na rin nating armas ang muli nilang ipamana sa susunod na henerasyon ng mga kapwa natin Pilipino,” the President said.

Further, President Aquino

said many countries, including Malaysia, have already expressed support to the country’s peace agreement between the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “Ngayon, may pagkakataon po tayong baguhin ang istorya ng ARMM (Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao) dahil sa maraming dahilan. Marami nga pong bansa ang nagbubuhos ng suporta sa ating usaping pangkapayapaan,” the President said.

“Ang mga pinuno ng MILF, pinadama rin sa atin ang kanilang tiwala at kumpiyansa na magiging katuwang din sila, kasama ang buong Bangsamoro, sa paghahanap ng kapayapaan,” he added. (PNA)


Five city schools divisions and three provincial schools divisions in the region with over 4,000

elementary and high school athletes will be participating in the different sports and athletic

PAGADIAN CITY – Anchored on the theme “ZamPen: Go in Unity and Solidarity for Excellence,” this city plays host to this year’s Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association Meet starting Feb. 25-28, 2015.

Pagadian hosts 2015 ZPRAA meet By: Claro A. Lanipa


competitions. The participating city schools divisions are the cities of Isabela, Dapitan, Dipolog, Pagadian and Zamboanga while the provincial schools divisions are the Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur. Prior to the official opening ceremonies today, Feb. 25, a solidarity conference was held yesterday at 2 p.m. with the technical officials, tournament managers, coaches and chaperons. As last year’s ZPRAA meet host, Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn Uy and Schools Division Superintendent Victoria Perez will turn-over the ZPRAA

banner to Pagadian City Mayor Romeo Pulmones and Dr. Marcom Borongan, OIC-Schools Division Superintendent during the opening program with Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles as keynote speaker. A street dancing/ritual competition was held during the opening ceremonies to give more color to this year’s ZPRAA meet. As a gesture of hospitality to visiting athletes, coaches, chaperons, tournament managers and other guests, the city government here will tender a welcome night at the Executive Function Hall, City Hall complex.


DOLE-9 bats for convergence strategy to improve industry workers’ conditions in Zambo By: Dominic I. Sanchez

As stipulated in its guidelines, LMC emphasizes that “all plant-level DOLE programs and services shall be delivered through one plant-level structure.” Programs on workers’ productivity, occupational safety and health, family welfare, grievances and labor laws compliance

shall now be coursed through one single mechanism through organized plant-level committees. This structure will also handle all worker-related concerns and issues at the workplace level. The guidelines also

emphasized that the programs “shall be converged to address decent work deficits, foster harmonious labor-management relationships and industrial peace, and increase productivity and competitiveness of enterprise.” “The different programs of the department will be anchored

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-9 here has introduced a strategy to improve industry workers’ conditions and enhance their productivity in their workplaces during the recent launching of the Labor Management Cooperation (LMC) Convergence Program at the LM Metro Hotel here with players from the canning and fishing industry in attendance.


here,” explained DOLE regional director Sisinio Cano. “Each of the workplaces will have this mechanism. We will make use of this vehicle to be able to deliver the programs to the workers and provide them with social protection such as PAGIBIG, PhilHealth, social security, productivity and others.” Upon the establishment of this mechanism at the plant level, DOLE will conduct regular monitoring to see if it is sustained. Companies that have adopted and sustained the strategy, shall be awarded with a certificate of compliance by the DOLE. Meanwhile, the DOLE has partnered with the agencies comprising the DOLE family such as the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB), Regional Tripartite Wage Productivity Board (RTWPB), Employees C o m p e n s a t i o n Commission (ECC) and others, as well as with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to realize the convergence. One of the strategy’s

goals is to have more competent and productive workers. For this purpose, the TESDA shall conduct industry-based trainings and certifications of the workers in preparation for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) integration. “It is the national government’s aim to certify our workers. This will add credence to them, signifying that we have quality workers at par with their counterparts in other ASEAN countries.” Similar orientations will also be done for other local industries. “Through this strategy, we will be able to foster a more harmonious relationship between the workers and the management,” said Cano. “If we have a peaceful workplace, we will have more productive workers.”


GSIS holds first Pensioners’ Day in Zamboanga Sibugay By: Alma L. Tingcang

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) held the first Pensioners’ Day at the Senior Citizens’ Model Center here on February 20, 2015.

About 100 pensioners gathered early for the free Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) and Blood pressure screening, medical and dental services, medicines and vitamins. For those who needed hair trimming, two haircutters were ready to serve their needs. “We want to assure pensioners that we are there when they need us,” Engr. Leoncito S. Manuel, GSIS Pagadian branch manager quoted earlier in an interview with PIA and Sibugay Express news editor, M s . Jennifer Alicante. He said the

activity was supposed to kick-off last year but because of their tight schedule, it did not push though. Dr. Manuel J. Omamalin III of GSIS, Dr. Warlito S. De Leon, municipal health officer of Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay and Dr. Grace C. Carloman, a dentist from the Department of Education

were there to extend services to the pensioners. Most of them were either diabetic or hypertensive. “This is the first time that the Pensioners’ Day is held here in Ipil,” Mr. Leo B. Marzan, a former DBP employee and president of the Ipil Federation of Senior Citizens’ Association said gratefully. He also cited the contribution of senior citizens to the nation’s economy while serving in different branches of government. He further observed


that retirees/pensioners spend their pension on basic needs and maintenance medicines. “We will institutionalize the Pensioners’ Day with added services such as reflexology/massage, manicure/pedicure, and other services needed by our GSIS pensioners,” Engr. Manuel assured. In a brief program, GSIS gave updates on the reforms introduced by the Board of Trustees and winded up with an open forum for the queries/clarifications of pensioners on vital issues. It was a vibrant discussion between GSIS and pensioners as they agreed to endorse the issues to the BOT. Manuel said that the Land Bank of the Philippines is now the depository bank of GSIS. “It is because LBP has 4 branches in the area and there are more LBP ATM machines in the countryside making it more accessible for pensioners,” he clarified. Since there are no more check disbursements, the pension is being paid through the pensioners’ ecard or UMID card. “In Ipil, there is no Union Bank branch, it’s only in Pagadian. So the more or less 1,000 pensioners will have easier access to LBP ATM machines,” Manuel said.


Seal of Good Local Governance replaces Seal of Good Housekeeping, says DILG

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental - The Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) has replaced the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH), in recognizing the good performance of the local government units (LGU’s), starting this year.

By: Nora Bagundol

“The SGLG is awarded to provincial, city and municipal governments, not only on financial housekeeping, but also on other areas that directly benefit the people,” Atty. Rene Burdeos, regional director of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), region 10, said. To qualify for the SGLG, the LGU must possess


the “3 plus 1” principle, meaning it must pass the first three of six core areas/criteria, plus any one of the another three, which may vary by LGU level and income class, Burdeos said. The first three of these criteria include the following: Good financial housekeeping, formerly the SGH, exhibits compliance with accounting and auditing standards, rules and regulations. Disaster Preparedness for disasters that include being an awardee of the Gawad KALASAG for Best Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council or having structures, plans and systems in place for disaster preparedness. Social Protection that shows sensitivity to the needs of vulnerable sectors like women, children, senior citizens, indigenous peoples and

persons with disability (PWD), among others. The other three criteria, one of which may be picked by the LGU as additional to the three “must” criteria are: Business-friendliness and competitiveness that demonstrates good performance in business promotion as a result of having a simplified business processing and licensing system. Peace and Order that shows considerable efforts in maintaining peace and order in the community by adopting a Local Anti-Criminality Action Plan or Peace and Order Council Action Plan. Environmental Management that displays substantial efforts in safeguarding the integrity of the environment with the initial focus of compliance with the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

NBI, CIDG hailed for arrest of suspected child abuser, trafficker

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Through Resolution No. 11965-2015, the 17th City Council during its regular session Monday presided over by vice mayor Caesar Ian E. Acenas commended the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Regional Unit 10 and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG-10) for the successful arrest of an Australian national suspected for child abuse and trafficking cases in barangay Linabo, Malaybalay City.

By: Vanessa Mae S. Siano


Councilor Zaldy Ocon, proponent of the resolution, said although the arrest was made in Bukidnon, the NBI and CIDG arresting officers are based in the city. According to Ocon, some of the victims of the suspect are also from Cagayan de Oro. Councilor Ramon Tabor, chair

of the committee on police, fire and public safety, said the arrest of the suspect was based on a warrant issued by Branch 37 of the Regional Trial Court. Tabor said the suspect has also other cases in the city although these are still being completed. (CdeOSP)

These MWP’s were the following: Adonis Esin Jornales, MWP Top 5, for rape; Joel Jagonap Bonsua, MWP Top 7, for carnapping; Ricky Dignos Abad, MWP Top 9; and Florencio Rigel Cinco, MWP Top 10, for violation of RA 9262 or anti-violation of women and children (VAWC) act, particularly on threatening physical harm and psychological abuse. Also arrested were Charles “Bob” Kaamiňo of the organized crime group and Jose Matt “Matoy” Edios of the criminal gang, who was also in the drug list, along with almost 60 others for various offenses, Sereňas said. Warrantless arrests were also

made on 22 individuals by the TCPS, during police responses to criminal situations, the TCPS chief said. Meanwhile, Sereňas said the arrests were a result of their Intel-Driven Operations, particularly, the Drug Buy-Bust and the Campaign Against Wanted Person & Other Criminals. Other activities engaged by TCPS that brought in the criminals were Police Visibility, that included its Mobile Patrol, Tricycle Patrol and Foot Patrol, establishment of checkpoints, and Joint Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police (AFP-PNP) operations, Sereňas added.

Tangub police arrests 4 of city’s top 10 Most Wanted Persons in 2014

TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental - At least four of the city’s top 10 most wanted persons (MWP) were arrested by the Tangub City Police Station (TCPS), last year, police chief inspector Surki A. Sereňas, chief of TCPS, said.

By: Rutchie C. Aguhob


ARMM introduces green super rice to farmers in the region

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) introduced the Green Super Rice (GSR) to farmers in the region for commercial production following a successful harvest at a

2-hectare demonstration farm in Maguindanao.

ARMM Agriculture Secretary Macmod Mending Jr. said they are pushing for the commercialization of this variety for increased productivity and better income for local farmers. The GSR has been developed by

the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) to be climate resilient and resistant to rice diseases such as sheath blight, bacterial leaf streak viruses and false


smut. The GSR variety can lead to more stable yield with lesser fertilizer and pesticide inputs. ARMM currently ranks 18th in terms of rice production in the country with a 3.1 metric tons per hectare yield. Mending said they expect to increase this to 7.7 metric tons per hectare with the introduction of the GSR. The region’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has distributed GSR seeds to 500 farmers during the rice farmers’ field day and harvest festival held in Sultan Mastura town, Maguindanao last week. The GSR is part of DAF-ARMM’s P3-million technology-driven programs that include the Rice Crop Manager (RCM), Philippine Rice Information System (PRISM) and the Next Generation (Next Gen). The programs are designed to

help increase the productivity of rice farmers in the region with the use of modern technology in farming. The RCM is an internet-based application that provides recommendations on nutrients, pest, weeds, water m a n a g e m e n t based on the variety of input and site-specific

conditions. PRISM is a system provides data and maps out rice growing areas affected by natural calamities and pest outbreaks. The NextGen project involves the introduction and adoption of high-yielding rice varieties and hybrids, such as the GSR, with tolerance to biotic and abiotic strain in rice production. DAF-ARMM also provided a P1.6 million-worth combined harvester to the farmers in Sultan Mastura. The machine can simultaneously reap, harvest and thresh rice. “ARMM aims to address the challenges on farming by taking advantage of new technologies that increases farm productivity, and making them available even to the poor farmers in the region,” said Mending. (Bureau of Public Information-ARMM/PIA10)


ARMM people’s day offers free services to the public

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will provide free services to the public every third Saturday of the month beginning this February as part of the People’s Day initiative of Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman.

The program was officially launched on February 21 at the ARMM compound in Cotabato City with the participation of different line agencies. Hataman said it is part of their commitment to pursue a revitalized and reformed ARMM and help raise

awareness on the services and different programs of the regional government. “Dapat umabot sa grassroots ang ating serbisyo sa ating mga kababayan (The services we provide should reach the grassroots),” he added.


The free services included legal services and medical services like diabetes and hypertension screening, urinalysis and pneumococcal vaccination. A supplemental feeding and psychosocial briefing to a group of children affected by recent conflicts in Maguindanao were also held. ARMM also hosted a jobs fair for domestic and international job opportunities, a session on mine risk education (MRE) and recreational activities like sports, film showing, puppet show and storytelling. Similar activity will likewise be held in each of the region’s five provinces in the coming months. The agencies that participated

in the People’s Day were Department of Health (DOH), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), Regional Sports Coordinating Office (RSCO), Office of the Attorney General (OAG), ARMM’s Humanitarian Emergency Action Response Team (ARMM HEART) and the Regional Library. (Bureau of Public Information-ARMM/PIA-10)


Guinness formally recognizes Treevolution feat

DAVAO CITY- The Guinness World Records (GWR) has formally recognized the record-breaking achievement of Treevolution: Greening MindaNow. The massive tree-planting set the new world record achieved the planting of 2,294,629 trees, carried out last September 26, 2014 by 122,168 volunteers at 29 locations across Mindanao, Philippines.

As proof of the recognition the record-breaking achievement was posted yesterday (Feb. 23) at the website of the Guinness World Records. “This is a huge feat for all Mindanawons, especially the volunteers and partners, particularly the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) who showed overwhelming support in successful conduct of TreeVolution.” Says Mindanao Develop


ment Authority chairperson Lualhati Antonino. About 4-million trees were planted but only 2,294,629 passed the stringent verification of Guinness. However this was enough to topple the previous record set by India by more than 30,000 trees. Antonino said that the 4 million trees is about 1% of the target forest cover for Mindanao by 2016. “These trees, once fully mature can supply oxygen to around 16 million people daily, or 75 percent of the total Mindanao population. There’s

also no doubt on how the seedlings we planted could eventually minimize the impacts of climate change.” Antonino added. The MinDA head reiterated that the success of the treevolution goes beyond breaking the world record. TreeVolution has showed one overwhelming reaffirmation—that Mindanawons can unite for a common good, and that, we, Mindanawons, can truly become one for the environment. Antonino said. (PIA/RG Alama)

Facts and figures

18,000-20,000 Expected number of par-ticipants and visitors ex-pected in the 2015 Palarong Pambansa to be held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte this May 3-9.


DAVRAA 2015 opens, Mati City fully secure

MATI CITY, Davao Oriental (PIA) Governor Corazon Malanyaon assured parents and participants of everyone ’s safety and security as the Davao Region Athletic Association meet 2015 opens today. She told reporters that the security sector has strengthened its presence in key areas of the city and the province to deter any movement of lawless elements following the foiled attack of the communist rebels on February 15. Malanyaon said security is also beefed up from the billeting places of the athletes to the venue of the games at the Davao Oriental Sports Complex. “We assure parents of children who are participating in the games that security is given a high priority by the government,” she said. Senior Superintendent Jose Carumba Jr., director of the Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office said that more troops from the Regional Public Safety Battalion 11 and the 10th Infantry Division have been deployed in the city as part of the target-hardening measure to discourage a repeat of the February 15 Mati City Police Station attack. He assured the readiness of the authorities to handle any situation. Carumba also bared that

security is also strengthened in the billeting areas following the burglary that happened in Don Luis Rabat Memorial High School in Barangay Dahican where cellular phones of the delegation from Panabo City, Davao del Norte were taken away by unknown individuals during the first night of their stay on February 20. “We are still investigating the incident and we will arrest the suspects one of these days,” he said. Vice Mayor Glenda Rabat-Gayta, speaking in behalf of the city government said that a total of P10-Million has been allocated for the games. She also assured the security of the people and the participating delegations. Dr. Luz Onor, officer-in-charge of the Department of Education 11 said that a total of 3,699 athletes, 581 coaches, 599 technical officials and 95 chaperones have to Mati City from other parts of the region for the athletic meet this year. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)


KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, Feb. 25—A farmer- entrepreneur in the province won a national gold award for The Outstanding Farmer of the Philippines (TOFARM) 2014.

NorthCot farmer-entrepreneur wins TOFARM National Gold AwardBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

Lucresia M. Neri of Poblacion 7, Midsayap topped three finalists of the search for Agri-Entrepreneur Individual Category namely Alberto C. Calsada of Ilocos Norte, Abraham A. Flores of Isabela Province and Troy D. Bumagat of Ormoc, Leyte.

Neri received a cash prize of P50,000, trophy and a Certificate of Recognition from TOFARM.

She joined other winners in the categories of Urban/City Farmer, Livestock, Farming, Fisher Folk, Family Farming, Agri-Initiatives, Agri-Cooperative, Local Government Unit, Young Farmer, Women Farmer and other class in the awarding ceremony.

Neri started a business from herbal products in 2010 with only a mortar, pestle and P105 on hand.

Known for having a positive outlook in life and passion for work, Neri paved the way for the gradual success of her herbal business.

She is the owner-manufacturer of Manna’s Alternative Herbal Products which has emerged as a strong local brand of herbal products in North Cotabato.

Her herbal plantation is located in the village of Central Bulanan, Midsayap and has a display center of herbal medicines in Poblacion 2 of the town.

Meanwhile, Governor Emmylou Mendoza said that Neri’s achievement is a proof that farmers in


the province continue to be more highly productive and competitive.

“We maintain a wide support to our farmers and we want to institutional-ize and make this as a best practice in our pursuit of agricultural excellence.

“We are also always committed to uplift the lives of our farmers that’s why we motivate them to give their best always,” the governor added.

On the other hand, she noted that the provincial government has exten-sive agricultural programs and sup-port to farmers in the province such as seedling and fingerling dispersals, farmers’ trainings and other assis-tance including the effective imple-mentation of downloaded projects from government line agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, De-partment of Environment and Natural

Resources and other concerned agen-cies and support to farmers’ endeavor in joining national searches or com-petitions such as the TOFARM.

TOFARM is an annual nationwide search for outstanding farmers spear-headed by the Junior Chamber of In-ternational Philippines (JCIP) and Uni-versal Harvester, Inc. (UHI).

It is an initiative to strengthen farming as a profession and to give recognition to farmers who have out-standing performances but were nev-er credited for their big contributions. (JSta.Cruz-N. Cot. Provincial Gov-ernment)


KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, Feb. 25-- An international group of women peace advocates and some Mindanao-based people’s Organizations recently converged here for a peace dialogue to counter extremism which has become a global issue.

Mindanao-based POs, international peace advocates hold peace dialogueBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

The event known as “Defying Extremism: Asian Dialogue” is part of the series of dialogues and discussions conducted in many countries. It is headed by the Institute for Peace and Justice (IPJ) of the University of San Diego.

In North Cotabato, it was participated by representatives of the Magungaya Group, United Youth for Peace and Development, Inc. (UNYPAD) and Balay Mindanao.

Further, women peace advocates from the US, Canada, Malaysia, Indonesia, Burma and counterparts from Pakistan and Nigeria attended the event.

The dialogue tackled the roots of conflict in Mindanao and what are the peace initiatives done to respond to the ill effects of war.

Also, it opened an avenue for exchange of views and opinions on the challenges besetting the people in the quest for long lasting peace in Mindanao which likely include extremism threats.

Jennifer Freeman, senior program

officer of the IPF gave emphasis on the need to put in all efforts to promote and maintain peace, address conflict with the right perspective and suppress religious extremism as an international threat.

With Freeman’s call, Mindanao-based POs narrated all the peace initiatives their group has been doing in the past years especially in conflict-affected areas of Mindanao.

Rosario Balderia, Project Assistant Manager of Balay Mindanao noted that aside from peace initiatives, their group focuses on the rehabilitation they are doing for many Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

“Because of conflict, many children were displaced and were not able to go back to their homes and schools, thus we put them in new communities and let them continue their education,” said Balderia.

Meanwhile, Governor Emmylou Mendoza emphasized that her administration continue to provide basic services and implement much-needed programs and projects in


many villages to strengthen the promotion of peace.

The governor pointed out that in the process of delivering services to the constituents, the provincial government does not favor any particular group and maintains to

provide equal opportunity to everyone.After the dialogue, the group went

to Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and met with the officers of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) central committee.

Their objective is to strengthen the peace initiatives of the provincial government of North Cotabato and also the ongoing peace negotiation of the MILF and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) as well as the the significant role of women peace advocates in the quest for peace in Mindanao. (JSta.Cruz-N. Cotabato Provincial Government)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Feb 25 -- Criminal Investigation and Detection Group head Benjamin Maganto and other members of the Board of Inquiry are set to visit the ground zero of the January 25 Mamasapano incident.

Board of Inquiry to visit ground zero of Mamasapano incidentBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

“Our objective in coming here is to look at the operating environment in Mamasapano (Maguindanao) because as Board of Inquiry we need to examine how the place has affected the tactical decisions and movements of the SAF (Special Action Force) commandos,” Maganto told members of the media during their stopover at the CIDG Office in Koronadal City Tuesday morning.

“We will also interview several key persons in Maguindanao and Cotabato City,” he added.

With him are Senior Supt. Ronald Dela Rosa, Senior Supt. Cesar Hawthorne Binag, Senior Supt. Benigno Duran, and Chief Insp. David Joy Duarte, members of the operational audit team

The investigating team will stay in the area for two to three days. He said the visit has been coordinated with the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, local police, Police Provincial Office and the Police Regional Office.

Magalong also told local media that the BOI is about to wrap up the investigation.

“We have few remaining persons to interview,” he said. “After this, we’ll proceed to the more challenging phase of analysis and report writing.”

Earlier, the BOI pledged to complete the investigation and release its report by February 26.


P11.9-M skills training approved for 2015 in Caraga

BUTUAN CITY - A total of P11,941,171 worth of skills training under the Bottom Up Budgeting (BUB) has been approved for Caraga Region in 2015.

By: Robert E. Roperos

According to Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Caraga regional director Florencio F. Sunico, Jr. the budget has been approved through the stewardship of TESDA Sec. Emmanuel Joel Villanueva who has been known as the country’s Technical Vocational


(Tech-Voc) champion. “Knowing the positive effect of the massive tech-voc trainings that have been conducted in 2014 which contributed to the economic growth of the region, our government has been investing much to deliver tech-voc trainings in the country,” Dir. Sunico said. The official added the government thru Sec. Villanueva has been supportive in developing human resources to be at par excellence with other workforce in the neighboring Asian countries in response to the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Integration. For Agusan del Norte, the total project cost is P2,840,171 that will cater 194 beneficiaries from this city, and the municipalities of Jabonga and Tubay. Of this cost, the local government unit’s counterpart is pegged at P500,000 and TESDA will shoulder the remaining amount of P2,340,171. Also, a total of 83 beneficiaries from Talacogon, Agusan del Sur can avail of the program which costs P1,089,000 for which the provincial counterpart has pegged to give P99,000 counterpart while TESDA shoulders P990,000. Further, the provincial

government of Surigao del Norte has pledged to give P540,000 as their counterpart to the P4,350,000 total project cost benefitting 319 Surigaonons coming from the city, Dapa and Bacuag. “This means that TESDA is responsible to give P3,810,000,” Sunico said. Furthermore, some 144 beneficiaries from Lanuza, San Miguel, and Tandag City in the province of Surigao del Sur will have the opportunity to be trained by TESDA. The total project costs P2,050,000. Of this amount, the provincial government’s counterpart is P335,700 while TESDA’s approved budget is P1,714,300. Finally, the province of Dinagat Islands is allotted P1,612,000 with LGU’s counterpart amounting to P112,000 and TESDA with P1,500,000, benefitting 125 beneficiaries from the municipalities of Cagdianao and Libjo. It can be recalled that during the visit of Sec. Villanueva here in October 2014, he has already announced the BUB implementation in Caraga Region as an additional mechanism of TESDA and the government in molding the youths and be world-class competent in terms of skills


development. This project is also in support to the Human Development

Cluster of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) of the present administration.

DTI urges public to avail services of accredited repair shopsBy: Rodrigo R. Matabaran

SURIGAO CITY - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) encouraged the general public to avail of services from electronic and automotive repair shops accredited by the agency for the general welfare and safety.

In its latest monitoring, a number of repair shops are operating without the DTI accreditation as they were not able to comply important requirements including that of having TESDA accredited service technician, basic important tools and equipment, and the prescribed comprehensive general liability insurance cover, among others. For the protection of customers, insurance coverage in required for service and repair shops establishments just in case there will be losses and damages of the items or equipment deposited

in the shops during fires and/or other incidents. DTI Surigao del Norte provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan advised the public that before availing services they should ask the establishment for their valid accreditation documents. Interested parties for the updated list of accredited service and repair shops establishment in the province of Surigao of Surigao del Norte, they can visit the DTI Provincial Office at 2nd Floor Simtoco Building, Burgos Street, this city.


SurSur guv, treasurer pay tribute to concerned town officials, employees for superb tax collectionBy: Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY - Due to a remarkable collection performance on real property tax last year, the Provincial Treasurer’s Office (PTO) has deemed it wise to hold on Monday an awarding and recognition program honoring their concerned counterparts at the 17 municipalities for the job well done including the local chief executives (LCEs). The special activity highlighted the flag ceremony program hosted by the Office of the Provincial Treasurer with the honorees (mayors, treasurers, assessors and/or their respective representatives) present. Governor Johnny Pimentel, together with Provincial Treasurer Wenifreda Perez, led

the ceremonial presentation of the awards and recognition held at the capitol lobby in the order of performance ranking based on the rate increase of the percentage of collection as against the annual goal. Per unnumbered memorandum circular issued by the said office on the matter, the


top five municipalities, which received not only a plaque of appreciation but also a higher cash incentive of P30,000; P25,000; P20,000; P15,000; and P10,000, respectively, are Hinatuan—218.26 percent; Barobo—188.90 percent; Carmen—180.47 percent; Cortes—176.07 percent; and Bayabas—174.62 percent. All those which did not make it to the top five have likewise been given a cash incentive but at only P5,000 apiece plus the corresponding plaque of appreciation. These are the municipalities of Cagwait—174.11 percent; Marihatag—173.84 percent; Madrid—166.63 percent; Lingig—164.08 percent; Tago—152.78 percent; Carrascal—147.19 percent; Tagbina—145.59 percent; San Miguel—143.69 percent; San Agustin—130.33 percent; Cantilan—128.59 percent; Lianga—116.46 percent; and Lanuza—108.46 percent. Concerned employees of the treasury office at the province also received due recognition because of their efforts. “The Office of the Provincial Treasurer is overwhelming with gratitude for a victorious journey towards the fulfillment of the

mandate in the treasury office; one of those is the collection of taxes, fees and charges accruing to the coffers of the provincial government,” the provincial treasurer said in the introductory part of her speech. She then cited “a collection efficiency of 155.05 percent” or equivalent to the total collected amount of P113,899,457.32 over the estimated collection target of P73,460,181.19. During the preceding year 2013, the total cumulative collection was only posted at P71,875,960.23 over the estimated cumulative collection target of P42,023,497.09, it was learned. Governor Pimentel lauded the notable feat, “So I’d like to commend the provincial treasurer, Weni Perez and, of course, the employees—the men and women of the treasurer’s office.” “However we cannot accomplish this very laudable objective if not for the support also of the municipalities. So therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to again thank the municipal mayors who are the frontliners and, of course, the very supportive municipal treasurers,” he remarked.

one mindanao - february 25, 2015

Documents

pia region ixthelma

pia region xolivia

pia region ixalma

pia surigao

pia agusan

pia caraga region nora

pia caraga updates

pia region xzener dumaguing