one mindanao - february 5, 2016

PIA Regional Offices

One Mindanao

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038Cellphone no. 0919-9994516E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]: www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA WesMin Info Bliz

Northern MindanaoGraces’ 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

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]

SOCCSKSARGEN RegionBautista 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)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

REGIONAL DESK EDITORS FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IXALMA 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 EDITORSFRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga RegionVENUS L. GARCIA, PIA Caraga Region

SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST

GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region

LAYOUT ARTISTSMARY MAY ABELLON, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region XZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region XDAISY JANE APIT, PIA Region XIII

EDITORIAL ADVISERSSEC. SONNY B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information AgencyEXECUTIVE EDITOR EFREN F. ELBANBUENACluster Head, Southern, Western &Central MindanaoRegional Director, PIA Region XI

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

ASSOCIATE EDITORS NOEMI B. EDAGARegional Director, PIA Region IX

THELMA B. OLIVERRegional Director, PIA Region X

OLIVIA T. SUDARIARegional Director, PIA Region XII

LGU-Gensan receives Blue Certification Award from Ombudsman

Cover Story

By: Nirvana Alpha Vita G. Fruylan

today’s news

DBM to propose to PNoy release of Tranche 1 of salary adjustment

10

23 Researchers: Drastic change in climate can bring ‘dryer dry’ periods in Zambo

By: Alfonso T. Ruda

Bangsamoro Women’s active role in peace-building and transformational governance takes center stage

12

30Lanao Norte bodybuilder wins at international competition

32 PhilHealth covers package for contraceptive implantBy: Kleah Dublin

36 February 12 a special non-working holiday in Kidapawan CityBy: Danilo E.Doguiles

By: Greg Tataro Jr17 SurSur’s top legislators

bared

SOUTHERN

SOCCSKSARGEN

CARAGAINFOCUS NATIONAL

WESTERNNORTHERN

712 15

2127

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25 COMELEC clarifies campaign guidelines for May polls

By: Emmanuel D. Taghoy28

DTI-Camiguin, chamber spearhead business consultative confabBy: Zita M. Abellare

29

4 February 5, 2016One Mindanao

By: Catherine T. Apelacio

T he city government of General Santos, through its

Business Permits and Licensing Division (BPLD), received a Blue Certification Level I Award from the Office of the Ombudsman after complying with the standards that hasten the process and provide ease in doing business in the city.

COVER STORYLGU-Gensan receives Blue Certification Award from Ombudsman

5February 5, 2016 One Mindanao

T he city government of General Santos, through its

Business Permits and Licensing Division (BPLD), received a Blue Certification Level I Award from the Office of the Ombudsman after complying with the standards that hasten the process and provide ease in doing business in the city.

Blue Certification, according to Ombudsman-Mindanao is “similar to the ISO certification for compliance with management system standards or to the Green Business Certification for meeting certain environmental standards and criteria.”

It also establishes a methodology in clarifying systems and procedures in the regulation of businesses to reduce the burden of red tape in doing business, and creates pressure for Local Government Units (LGUs) to get certified.”

The assessment it said will revolve around LGU’s compliance with the 87 standards and nine categories set by the agency, and the steps and time as well as convenience offered to clients when making business transactions.

Ma. Rosanna Sasuman, chief of the Public Assistance Unit of Ombudsman Mindanao personally handed over the Blue Certification Level 1 to Mayor Ronnel Rivera in a simple ceremony last week at the office of the local chief executive.

Based on the Certification Assessment Result, Gensan met 52 out of the 87 prescribed standards or 60% compliance which qualifies the city to the Level I Blue Certification.

“One of our best practices is the establishment of a One-Stop-Shop Business Processing every January of each year where representatives of

various local and national government agencies needed in the renewal of business permits or application for new business are grouped together in one place,” said Joy Grace Bundaon, Licensing Office 1 of the city’s BPLD.

Bundaon explained that the “One-stop-shop” hastened the renewal of business permits which used to take a very long time because of the requirements that compel the signatures of various local and national agencies which offices are scattered all over the city.

Some of the national agencies represented in the One-stop-shop include the Social Security System, Philippine Health Insurance Corp., Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-ibig), Bureau of Internal Revenue and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) while from the local government are

6 February 5, 2016One Mindanao

the City Planning and Development Office, City Engineer’s Office, City Health Office, City Treasurer’s Office and Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO).

“Barangay clearances can also be processed in the one-stop-shop as representatives from the 26 barangays of the city are also present,” she said.Bundaon also disclosed that on regular months they have assigned personnel who are doing legworks for their customers for free especially those who are applying for new business to encourage the latter that doing business in Gensan is easy.

Meanwhile, Ombudsman-Mindanao also clarified that the Blue Certification level is valid for three

years and it does not stop on Level I as there are still two higher levels of certification: Levels II and III.

To qualify for Level II, the LGU must meet or satisfy at least 75% or 65 of the standards; while Level III requires 90% compliance or 78 out of the 87 standards are met.

It explained further that once an LGU got a Level III Certification for 2 consecutive assessment periods then it will be “Blue Certified,” which is the highest certification level.


Nominate and recognize outstanding public servants -- CSC Chief

“We are encouraging the public to submit nominations to the Search to recognize our lingkod bayaniwho helped transform the civil service to one that we can truly be proud of—makatao at may malasakit sa lahat—and who have committed

themselves to effect exemplary public service,” said Civil Service Commission Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala.

The awards to be given are the highest and most coveted recognition given by the

QUEZON CITY -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) is accepting nominations for the 2016 Search for Outstanding Officials and Employees until 31 March 2016.

One Mindanao8 February 5, 2016

government to state workers.

All employees in the career and non-career service of the government, including appointive barangay officials and employees recognized as government employees, may be nominated. Employees who are under job order or contracts of service are excluded from the program.

The 2016 Search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees forms part of CSC’s Honor Awards Program (HAP), and has three award categories. The Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award is conferred to an individual or group for exceptional or extraordinary contributions that had nationwide impact.

The Outstanding Public Officials and Employees or the Dangal ng Bayan Award is conferred to an individual for performance of extraordinary act or public service and consistent

demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior on the basis of his/her adherence to the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

The CSC Pagasa Award is given to an individual or group of individuals for outstanding contributions that directly benefit more than one department of the government. To promote and strengthen teamwork, the CSC strongly encourages group/team nominations. Any individual or organization with extensive knowledge of the outstanding work performance and/or exemplary ethical of certain public servants may nominate an individual or group of individuals for a specific category in the Honor Awards Program.

Nominations for all award categories can be submitted to any CSC provincial/field or


regional office until 31 March 2016. Only nominations with complete requirements will be accommodated for screening and evaluation.

Nomination forms and guidelines are available for download at csc.gov.ph. For further inquiries, please

contact the HAP Secretariat at telephone numbers (02) 931-7993, (02) 932-0381, or [email protected] or [email protected]. (CSC)

One Mindanao10 February 5, 2016

MANILA -- The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is preparing its recommendations to President Benigno S. Aquino III on the possible implementation of the first tranche of salary adjustments for government workers, as provided for in the proposed Salary Standardization Law 4 bill, Communications Secretary Sonny Coloma Jr. said Thursday.

DBM to propose to PNoy release of Tranche 1 of salary adjustment

“A total of P57.9 billion appropriation is included in the General Appropriations Act of

2016 and this will fully cover the first tranche,” Coloma said. “DBM will include a similar item in the


proposed National Expenditure Program (NEP) for 2017, to cover the second tranche.”

The proposed NEP for 2017 will be turned over to the next administration, he added.

In a separate statement, DBM Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “The Executive has options within its power to effect the proposed compensation adjustment.”

Abad cited Section 13 of P r e s i d e n t i a l Decree No. 985 and Item 17 of Congress Joint Resolution No. 4, s. 2009, authorizing the President to periodically revise or update, upon the recommendation of the DBM, the g o v e r n m e n t ’ s Compensa t i on

and Position Classification System.

Based on these laws, Abad said, the President may effect a compensation adjustment that is still consistent with the compensation adjustment strategy under the proposed Salary Standardization Law of 2015. (PND/PCOO/PRC-PIA)

12 One Mindanao February 5, 2016

Bangsamoro Women’s active role in peace-building and transformational governance takes center stage

COTABATO CITY-Some 800 women from the provinces and cities of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) were in attendance during the 1st ARMM Bangsamoro Women Leadership Summit on February 1-2, 2016.

photo credits to: philstar.com


The first ever women summit was spearheaded by ARMM’s Regional Commission on Bangsamoro Women (RCBW) to showcase women’s role and struggle especially in armed conflict scenario in the region. According to the OPAPP Undersecretary Ma. Cleofe Sandoval, in more than five decades of armed conflict, women have carried the burden of war as fighters, mediators, peacekeepers, caregivers and providers.

“They have been brave and faithful pilgrims in this journey towards lasting peace - up to this day, the Bangsamoro women continue to be called - to action, to preserve the peace that many have worked so hard and died for to achieve,” Sandoval said.

The burden and impact of armed conflict of women propel the community of nations to commit, to protect their rights and to include their voices in crafting a peaceful future, she added. She believes that developing the national action plans (NAP) based on our own perspective

and experiences will be helpful to attain unending peace. With NAP, she emphasized, all efforts that translate into peace and security should lead to lasting and meaningful changes in the lives of women and girls in communities wrapped by violence and conflict.

Sandoval said in ARMM, women from all the provinces have been reached by the regional government to encourage them to get involve in addressing gender related issues and programs – through women leaders to use the gender and development (GAD) budget.

Sandoval said, the government needs more transformative leaders that will create a gender fair society. “We need to invest in young women and young men to take leadership roles by exposing them to different realities in our communities.”

“We hope the efforts of the RCBW and the ORG have kept the LGUs into action and that soon the fruits of their labor will be more real and accountable in women’s lives,” Sandoval said.


Meanwhile, amid the non-passage of the BBL by Congress, she called on the participants to stay calm and hold on to the dream of lasting peace.

At present, there are Women Centers in each province of the regional government which symbolizes the local leaders’ commitment to bring and implement gender programs to the communities.

The two-day summit anchored on the theme, “Strengthening Bangsamoro Women Leaders’ towards Transformative Governance”, was held at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex, ARMM Compound, in this city.(IBEroy/PBChangco-PIA Cotabato City)

photo credits to: balita.com


DAR hands P33-M irrigation to AgNor farmersBy: Joie L. Ceballos

JABONGA, Agusan del Norte – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) handed to Baleguian Organic Farmers Irrigator’s Associa-tion (BOFIA) the P33 million communal irrigation system (CIS) on Thursday, February 4, 2015. In a ceremonial turn-over held in Brgy. Baleguian, Jabonga, BOFIA chairman Winefredo Maldo expressed thanks to DAR for sourcing out funds and to the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) as the implementing agency. “118 farmers in our barangay will enjoy this big help,”

Maldo added in his dialect. The irrigation project, funded under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project (ARISP-III) of the DAR includes three dams and will serve 180 hectares of rice land in the area. The ceremony was attended by DAR Caraga regional director


Julita Ragandang, provincial board member Danny Moran, provincial agrarian reform program officer Andre Atega and Engr. Solidad Puyales of the NIA-Regional Office. Board Member Danny Moran, representing the Governor Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba said that DAR and NIA are vital partners in rural development especially in Agusan del Norte. In her message, Ragandang emphasized DAR’s commitment to partner with NIA and the local government to bring more development in agrarian reform communities. “But it is the unity and the strong will of the farmer beneficiaries that prompt this project to be realized,” Ragandang added.

In the same occasion, DAR also handed 11 units of common service farm facilities to BOFIA amounting to P4.3 million under the DAR’s Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) Program. The irrigation facility is the second project of the DAR-ARISP III in the barangay. In December 2011, DAR also handed the 1.8 km NRJ-Baleguian to Sitio Bagang farm-to-market road (FMR) amounting to P11.6 million. Also present during the activity were: Engr. Cristy Dagdag of the DAR-ARISP III Central Project Management Office, Engr. Louie Mendoza of the NIA-CARP-IC and asst. irrigation manager Diosdado Ranio.


SurSur’s top legislators baredTANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur– The Tanggapan ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan (TSP), this province, bared the top achievers among legislators here in 2015.

By: Greg Tataro Jr

Monalisa Cañedo-Su, secretary to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP), disclosed before capitol employees during Monday’s flag ceremony program the “top five ranking SP Members in terms of authorship of resolutions.” Named were SP members Donell Polizon, Eleonor Momo, Conrad Cejoco, Glenn Plaza, and Teresita Donasco with 79, 70, 52, 40 and 38 resolutions authored, respectively. The 12-member 17th Sangguniang Panlalawigan here, as of latest, headed by Vice-Governor Manuel Alameda, Sr. as presiding officer, has adopted 554 resolutions and 33 ordinances, the TSP secretary revealed. On ordinances, Su likewise mentioned SP member Tito Cañedo to have authored seven, SP members Henrich Pimentel and Mary Grace Lim had three apiece, SP members Mariano Atacador, Sr. and Glenn Plaza had two each, and SP member Teresita Donaco had one to her credit.

“The rest (15) of the ordinances enacted were jointly sponsored by the SP Members present during sessions,” she added. Earlier, the TSP secretary pointed out that “Our legislative officials have conducted 47 sessions from January to December, 44 of which were attended by Hon. Mariano R. Atacador, Sr., while Hon. Donell V. Polizon made it to 43 sessions, making the two SP Members with the most attendance to sessions.” Beforehand, Su said “the 17th Sangguniang Panlalawigan has continued to diligently conduct committee meetings and sessions to ascertain that issues are discussed, reviewed and evaluated as legislative measure.”


ZAMBOANGA CITY – The inter-agency Zamboanga Communications Working Group (CWG) is now preparing for another round of camp dialogues in the twelve transitory sites here to inform internally-displaced persons (IDPs) on updates regarding the Zamboanga City Roadmap to Recovery and Reconstruction (Z3R), and other important matters.

By Dominic I. Sanchez

Zambo communications group to meet IDPs anew through camp dialogues


Sheila Covarrubias, city public information officer said that there is a need to inform the IDPs on updates with regards to the rehabilitation process, who have been in transitory sites for more than 2 years now. “We will continue to work with our international humanitarian partners, and we really appreciate their help since the very beginning,” she said. Meanwhile, Covarrubias emphasized that Mayor Beng Climaco-Salazar finds it necessary to inform the IDPs on the water shortage due to the dry spell, and how they can be instruments to mitigate its effects. At present, there are still 16,750 individuals, or 2,988 families in the transitory sites. The inter-agency group is composed of the City Public Information Office (PIO), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), and international humanitarian partners like the International Organization for Migration (IOM), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA), Community and Family Services, Inc. (CFSI), Integrated

Resources Development for Tri-People (IRDT) and others. During the camp dialogues, previously called information caravans, representatives from the different clusters making up the rehabilitation structure will be brought to the camps and speak about updates on their end. It will be a two-way forum, in which IDPs also share their insights and complaints with regards to the services they receive from government. The CWG considers these dialogues as a very important aspect in rehabilitation, since it is a medium to share information between the clients and their service providers. In previous information caravans like those done last year, the CWG was able to utilize youth volunteers coming from local colleges and universities. CWG is looking to formally tap the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU), Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), Zamboanga State College of Marine Science and Technology (ZSMST) and the Zamboanga City State Polytechnic College (ZCSPC). The camp dialogues will kick off next month.


By: Emmanuel D. TaghoyZAMBOANGA CITY– The city might experience “dryer dry periods” than what it is experiencing now considering the drastic change in climate, researchers have revealed in the recent National Conference on Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management held here at the Garden Orchid Hotel.

Researchers: Drastic change in climate can bring ‘dryer dry’ periods in Zambo

The two-day conference is anchored on the topic “Role of Research in Changing Times” that seeks to converge research think tanks, academicians, local

government officials from the different towns and cities in the Zamboanga Peninsula region, and


non-government organizations from all over the country. “We should all expect that the worst will get worst. Talagang emergency (It is really an emergency). You have to do your utmost with water resources. Food security will also be affected,” emphasized Dr. Rosa Perez of the Manila Observatory, Ateneo de Manila University, who discussed climate change related-hazards and their implications on water and food security. Dr. Perez said climate has significantly changed over time. “The supposed recurring pattern of El Niño and La Niña is no longer experienced, instead, dry spell is followed by another dry spell,” she said. “Yong hindi natin kabisado might save our lives. Let’s transform our behavior. Let us include the educational system. Nagbabago na ang panahon, panahon na para magbago,” she encouraged, quoting the slogan of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Information Agency’s (PIA) joint advocacy campaign on climate change. Director Teresita Montano, director of the Ateneo Research Center, Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) said, “It

can no longer be denied. We are experiencing drastic environmental changes, from extreme floods to critical water supply which lead the local government to put our city under state of calamity.” “That is why it is important for us to address these impeding issues and act on it,” she further explained. Dr. Enrico Paringit, program leader of the University of the Philippines’ Disaster Risk and Exposure Assessment for Mitigation (DREAM) Program served as the keynote speaker of the event. He discussed his study on river basins in the country and how data gathered from it could help send out early warnings of impending flood hazards. Other plenary speakers include: Director Romeo Fajardo, deputy administrator of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD); Dr. Oscar Victor Lizardo, chief science research specialist of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards (Project-NOAH); Engr. Sarah Jane Samalburo, chief science research specialist on data processing of DREAM Program, Philippine-Light Detection and Ranging (PHIL-LiDAR 1) project.


By Alfonso T. RudaDIPOLOG CITY---The Commission on Election has reiterated its reminder to candidates running for various positions in the province of Zamboanga del Norte to observe rightful campaigning this coming national and local elections.

COMELEC clarifies campaign guidelines for May polls

There were also speakers from the academe such as: Engr. Guada Calalang of Xavier University, who is an expert on Soil Reference System for Food Security; and Engr. Dexter Lo who shared the DRRM experience of Xavier University, Cagayan de Oro City. Dr. Elmeir Apolinario, head

of CDRRMO talked about the city’s challenges and response to disaster. The event was organized by ADZU’s Ateneo Research Center, in collaboration with the local government of Zamboanga City and the regional offices of DOST, OCD, DOT, CHED, DepEd and DILG in Region 9.


During the recent Kapihan sa Dipolog, outgoing Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Ellis Miguel said that campaign period for national candidates starts on February 9, 2016 and March 25, 2016 for the local positions. However, Miguel clarified that campaign period for local positions will only start on March 26 since March 25 falls on a Good Friday, which is a holiday. He said that as of now, no advisory has been received yet from its central office on any amendment of the sizes of campaign materials. He also warned the candidates to post campaign materials only in areas designated by the Comelec. Incoming Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Jossil Macute cautioned candidates not to post campaign materials on trees or electric posts as they are not considered poster areas. To strictly monitor the expenditures of any candidate, Atty. Macute said Comelec has created the Campaign Finance Office, purposely to check on the veracity of the candidates’ Statement of Contribution and Expenses (SOCE). Failure to file SOCE for two times, according to Atty. Miguel, is already a ground for perpetual

disqualification to hold public office in the future. “If one fails to file SOCE, he will be fined. If he will not pay the fine, he will be charged administratively and barred to hold public office,” Miguel said. On the other hand, Comelec 9 Regional Director Atty. Wilred Jay Balisado said that public school teachers will serve this coming national and local elections as members of the Board of Election Inspectors (BEIs), unless otherwise they are disqualified for various reasons. Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police is currently conducting regular checkpoints in different areas along the national highway of the province since the implementation of Comelec gun ban last January 10.


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources 10 (DENR 10) is set to release soon a coffee table book of Region 10 Protected Areas (PAs).

By: Department of Environment and Natural Resources

DENR 10 set to release coffee table book

The Coffee Table Book is a compilation of nature photography, natural landscapes and objects in natural landscapes. It presents the conservation and preservation efforts

of DENR underlining the PAs potentials in ecotourism. Regional Director Ruth M. Tawantawan said, the DENR enforces the protection and management of


LanaoNorte bodybuilder wins at international competitionTUBOD, Lanao del Norte – Veteran bodybuilder and Fitness Gym Manager Eddie Mugar of Tubod, Lanao del Norte recently won at the Asia-Philippines Bodybuilding Competition and Mr. Universe International Bodybuilding Championship.

the protected areas because of their recognized natural, ecological and/or cultural values. She added that these areas are essential for biodiversity conservation, often providing habitat and protection from hunting for threatened and endangered species. Region 10 has 10 protected areas under four categories - resource reserve, protected landscape, natural monument/landmark and natural park. The resource reserve category includes the protected landscape and seascape areas of Initao-Libertad, Baliangao and Bacolod-Kauswagan. The Mimbilisan Protected Landscape falls under the protected landscape category, while Mt. Timpoong-HibokHibok is under natural monument/landmark category. Most of the Region’s PAs are categorized as natural parks including ranges of Mt. Kitanglad, Mt. Kalatungan, Mt. Balatukan, Mt. Malindang and Mt. Inayawan. Each PA is managed by its

Protected Area Management Board (PAMB). All 10 PAMBs of Region 10 were able to pass a total of 170 resolutions in compliance to its mandate of strengthening and operationalization of the protected areas in the Region - 167 of which were approved. The PAMBs also took steps in administering the Habitat Protection by designing restrictive, directional and interpretive signages based on standard design and specification of signs, buildings, facilities and other infrastructures that may be installed or constructed within the protected area. These signages are installed along the protected areas’strategic entry and exit points. The objective in setting up these signages/billboards is to increase the level of awareness of the local communities living in the park and that of visitors/tourists. The billboards likewise convey the prohibited acts inside the Protected Areas as provided under RA 9304, RA 9147 and RA 7586.


Mugar won 5th Place in the Master’s Class category in the Asia-Philippines Bodybuilding Competition. While in the National Bodybuilding Association (NABBA) Mr. Universe International Bodybuilding Championship, he won 4th Place in the Mixed Pair category together with international Zumba instructor Emma Satchel of Cebu City. The event was organized by Workout Fitness Center of Cebu City and sanctioned by the (NABBA) held at Mariner’s Court, Cebu City. “I’m thankful to the provincial government especially to Governor Khalid Dimaporo, Vice-Governor Cristy Atay and Congresswoman Imelda Dimaporo for their all-out support in this endeavor. I hope they will continue to support our local athletes so we can get exposure especially in international competitions,” Mugar

expressed. More than 60 countries participated in the five-day mega-competition including powerhouses Australia, New Zealand and United Arab Emirates (UAE). Mugar is also a 4-time Champion of the Mr. Philippines Bodybuilding Championship in the Middle weight and Masters Category. “I want to promote healthy lifestyle among the people of Lanao del Norte. If you can’t afford to go to the gym to exercise, then do your exercises at home. It’s important not only to eat nutritious food but also to live an active lifestyle,” added Mugar. Mugar is the current manager of Mindanao Civic Center (MCC) Fitness Gym Club at MCC Sports Complex, Barangay Sagadan, in the capital town Tubod, this province.

DTI-Camiguin, chamber spearhead business consultative confabBy: Zita M. Abellare

MAMBAJAO, Camiguin – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Camiguin Provincial Office, in partnership with the Camiguin Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (CCCI)., has spearheaded a Consultative Meeting with the Poblacion Barangay Council of Mambajao and the local business sectors on 20 January 2016, at the height of the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) registrations.


The Consultative Meeting was aimed at being the right forum for data gathering and clarification from the Poblacion Barangay Council Officers regarding the implementation of an ordinance, specifically Barangay Ordinance No. 2014-01 increasing the Barangay Business Clearance Permit, approved from the barangay level on July 21, 2014 and further approved by the Sangguniang Bayan of Mambajao on January 19, 2015. The business community requested for a possible refinement and amendment of the ordinance. Majority of its members, led by the CCCI President Nelpher Catacutan said they had a vague understanding in the implementation of the ordinance as the fees were allegedly deemed excessive, hastily implemented, not well disseminated and are yet to be standardized. Punong Barangay Rodin Modina Romualdo represented the Poblacion Barangay Council and properly explained how the ordinance has been formulated in the purpose on increasing local revenues and taxes and in an appropriate manner been expressing his openness for an open dialogue regarding this issue. The two parties made agreements where Punong Barangay Romualdo assured the members of the CCCI and the whole business community that by first week February 2016, the Barangay Council of Poblacion Mambajao will convene inviting representatives CCCI, Mambajao Business Community, DTI, and other interested parties to

discuss the possibility of amending the imposed Barangay Business Clearance Fees, improved the crafting of the Barangay Ordinance, and make recommendations to the council to improve and enhance the relationship between the business community and the Barangay Council. Next steps include a tax mapping activity to be organized by the Barangay Council after the close of the renewal time of securing business licensing permits to validate the capitalization indicated by the businessmen at their application forms. The CCCI is a business advocate of private sector concerns, economic counselor, trade facilitator, government relations officer, liaison to the public sector, investment promoter and, most importantly, a partner in local economic development, among others. The DTI acts as a secretariat and advocacy partner of the CCCI, whose principal function was to promote and enhance the growth of the existing and thriving industries in the country and a partner in local development. Under the Local Government Code of the Philippines, the LGUs have common revenue raising powers like the barangay clearance, which is one of the requirements for any municipality to issue permits and licenses for business activities and for such clearance, the sangguniang barangay may impose a reasonable fee.


Defense chief visits Eastmincom

The Eastmincom headquar-ters is located inside the sprawl-ing Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City the home of the Philippine Navy’s Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao. Gazmin highlighted the cur-rent updates of the Armed Forc-es’ modernization program and emphasized the role of the mili-tary in the coming 2016 national and local elections. “You have to remain apolitical and not get in-volved in any partisan political activity.” The DND chief said. The Secretary also com-mended Eastmincom under the leadership of Major General Rey Leonardo Guerrero for taking the right direction in winning the peace, he also congratulated the command for its accomplish-ments in the previous year. After the talk, Sec. Gazmin had boodle lunch with field com-

manders, soldiers and civilian personnel of Eastmincom. The unified command cov-ers the regions of Southeastern Mindanao, Northern Mindanao and parts of Central Mindanao. (PIA/RG Alama)

DAVAO CITY- As part of his unified command visits and to assess the security in the region. Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin vis-ited the headquarters of the Eastern Mindanao Command last Feb-ruary 2.


PhilHealth covers package for contracep-tive implant

According to Department of Health (DOH) Administrative Or-der 2015-0006, these subdermal implants are small tubes, the size of a matchstick, which are inserted under the skin of the upper arm of women, producing progestin-only hormones that in-hibit ovulation and prevent preg-nancy for three years. The pro-cedure is also known for its rapid reversibility. In a circular issued by Phil-Health, the package which is worth Php 3,000 covers the pro-cedure including pre and post counselling, drugs and supplies, professional fee and use of the facility. It can be availed in accredit-ed hospitals, primary care facili-ties, birthing homes or maternity clinics, and ambulatory surgical clinics and must be performed by accredited professionals who have acquired a Certificate of Training from DOH. As with other benefits avail-ment, the process of availing this

package requires the member to have sufficient and regular pay-ment of premium contributions. For those under the indi-gent, Kasambahay and senior citizen categories of PhilHealth, the No Balance Billing policy also applies. PhilHealth further specified that the package can be availed every 730 days which is equiv-alent to two years; the agency shall cover availments starting January 1, 2016. (PHIC-XI/Kleah Dublin)

DAVAO CITY– Adding to a string of benefits that increase Filipinos’ access to alternate family planning methods, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) now covers benefit package for subdermal implant used for contraception.


regional gallery

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin greets the officers of the East-ern Mindanao Command during his arrival at the Eastmincom HQ in Felix Apolinario Naval Station. Sec. Gazmin visited Eastmincom last Tuesday (Feb. 2)


Anti-Smoking Ordinance Task Force inspects establishments in Gensan

GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Feb 5 - Members of the Anti-Smoking Or-dinance Task Force inspected buildings in the city Tuesday, Febru-ary 2, to ensure the full implementation of smoking ban.

Establishments like malls and public markets were visited by the task force to check if they

have already complied with the policies set by the anti-smoking ordinance.


One of the major require-ments in the task force checklist is the presence of designated smoking areas in business or public buildings.

These smoking areas should be 10 meters away from places of congregation.

Among the establishments ex-amined were barangay halls, the Lagao Public Market and malls.

The Hall of Justice was not exempted from the inspection.

City Administrator Arnel Zapa-tos, one of the members of the task force, warned that business establishments not following the guidelines of the anti-smoking ordinance will be penalized.

Non-renewal of business per-mits is among the sanctions.

Business owners have already been briefed by the city govern-ment regarding the ordinance.

The General Santos City Police Office (GSCPO) has pledged to apprehend anyone who will be smoking in public areas, espe-cially in government offices.

A deputation order has al-ready been given by City Mayor Ronnel Rivera to GSCPO OIC Director Maximo Layugan to de-ploy police personnel to differ-ent public areas in the city.

Violators of the anti-smoking ordinance will be fined P1,000,

P2,000 or P3,000 based on the number of offenses.

These fines will be given to the treasury of the barangay where the violator was appre-hended.

If a violator is unable to pay the fine, he/she would immedi-ately be subjected to inquest.

The Ordinance No. 6 Series of 2015 or Anti-Smoking Ordinance is new local law in General San-tos City which strictly prohibits smoking in government institu-tions, schools, public places and business establishments.

This ordinance also forbids the use of tobacco and electronic-cigarettes.

Even selling cigarettes and any smoking device near the vi-cinity of schools and churches is also punishable under this ordi-nance.

It was Mayor Rivera who pushed for the creation of the ordinance. He said he had felt the adverse effects of smoking.

“I do not want other people to experience what I have expe-rienced. To those who became sick because of smoking, you know what I am talking about,” the mayor said.

“Through this ordinance, I am inviting everyone to stop smok-ing. It is your health that is be


February 12 a special non-working holiday in Kidapawan City

ing put into danger when you continue to smoke,” he added.

Mayor Rivera admitted that he was a heavy smoker for almost

30 years before he eventually stopped in 2015. (IJLagare-Gensan CPIO/DEDoguiles-PIA12)

KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, Feb 5 — Malacanang has de-clared a special non-working holiday in Kidapawan City for the celebration of its 18th Foundation Anniversary.

Executive Assistant Paquito Ochoa noted in Proclamation No. 1210 that “it is fitting and proper that the people of the City of Kidapawan be given full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.”

This means, according to a report from the City Informa-tion Office that all public and private schools as well as public offices will be closed. Private offices may opt to close.

With this declaration of a hol-iday, City Mayor Joseph Evange-lista invited residents to partici-pate in the festivities.

Kidapawan was converted from being a municipality into a component city of North Co-tabato province by virtue of

Republic Act 8500 signed into law by then President Fidel V. Ramos on February 18, 1998.

Among the activities of the city’s 18th year as a city are hip-hop dancing competition on February 7, inter-collegiate cheer dance competition on Feb-ruary 8, color fun run on Febru-ary 10, marathon on February 14 and carnival-themed street dancing competition on Febru-ary 12.

On February 10, Kidapawan City will also attempt to break a Guinness world record for the largest cha cha dance. At least 10,000 individuals are expect-ed to join the bid. (DEDogu-iles-PIA 12)

37February 5, 2016 One Mindanao 37

one mindanao - february 5, 2016

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