one mindanao - june 10, 2014

Santacruzan in DavaoRudolph AlamaSOUTHERN MINDANAO

TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 196

Secretary Pangilinan calls for support in dealing with coconut infestation

NATIONAL

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WESTERN REGION

NORTHERN MINDANAO

CARAGA REGION

City Mayor cites modern tech in solving high-profile crime

Cocolisap infestation remains, PCA-9 seeks funds to save coco industry

AFP welcomes new NPA surrenderees

TAYO launches 12th Search for Outstanding Youth Organizations

Kalahi-CIDSS scales-up with 1,119 completed community sub-projects in Caraga

Agusan Norte solon pays tribute to Day Care workers, calls them ‘unnamed heroes’

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Information to Empower Filipinos

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SOUTHERN MINDANAO

LAWig Katawhan

Rene V. Carbayas

Maj. Christian C. UyRG Alama

NYC

Eunice G. Montaos

TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 196

Santacruzan in Davao

In the early 4th century, the Roman Emperor Constantine appointed his mother Helena to search for Christian relics in

Helena undertook a pilgrimage in Palestine to look for the relics. During a project to tear down a temple built by the former Roman emperor Hadrian to honor Roman goddess Venus which stood atop the burial site of Jesus Christ she stumbled upon the three crosses.According to legend, to identify the cross where Jesus Christ was crucified, Helena bought a sick woman to Jerusalem and was asked to touch the three cross one-by-one. Touching the first cross, the woman’s condition did not improve, the same result as the second one, only when she touched the third cross did the woman experience remarkable improvement which gave Helena the proof that it was the cross of Jesus. Spanish Catholic tradition marks a May time festival to honor Helena of Constantinople or Reyna Elena, as

she i s

venerated. Flores the Mayo (F lowers of May) was said to be started in the 19th century, with the enactment of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception.The name Flores de Mayo was taken because in the particular month in the country, flowers are in full bloom. It is also in this month that Helena found the holy cross. One of the highlight of Flores de Mayo is the Santacruzan or a pageant which is religious-historical in nature. The town’s loveliest ladies dressed in their gowns and with their coterie of

by Rudolph Alama

COVER STORY

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escorts along with elaborate floats go on a procession, which takes them in the center of the town often culminating inside the church. This pageant is celebrated across towns and cities in the country. In Davao Region, Two of the biggest santacruzans were held in the cities of Panabo and Tagum.

Tagum Santacruzan Tagumenyos again witnessed the elaborate celebration of the annual Grand Santacruzan, this time marked with the highest mark of religiosity and creativity with a late-afternoon parade of 21 beautiful sagalas in the city’s major streets. Jointly organized by the City Government of Tagum and the Diocese of Tagum, this year’s Santacruzan featured elaborately-decorated arcs adorned with flowers, signifying another Filipino tradition honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary: Flores de Mayo. Hundreds of angel-dressed children who participated in the month-long Flores de Mayo in their respective Gagmayn’g Kristohanong Katilingban (GKKs) also joined in the festivities. Santacruzan is a Filipino Catholic tradition that honors the Blessed Virgin Mary and commemorates the discovery of the Holy Cross by Reyna Elena. “It brings out the best in Tagum,”

s a i d

Marlene Alastra of the Tagum City Tourism C o u n c i l ,

referring to the 21 sagalas this

year. The sagalas this

year are Arrold Dave Cacayorin (Methuselah), Darren Jeanne Cahucom (Reina Banderada), Bianca Igtanloc (Reyna Mora), Katrina Mae Balaga (Reyna Fe), Suzie Dawn Rellon (Reyna Esperanza), Melody Rellon (Reyna Caridad), Hannah Dianne Moreño (Reyna Abogada), Shiela Mae Arbuso (Reyna Sentenciada), Hannah Faye Nardo (Reyna Justicia), Dannah Jean Dujali (Reyna Judith), Kristine Lara San Jose (Reyna Sheba), Jae Ann Sollano (Samaritana), Alyssa Mae Alimpolo (Veronica), Sherilyn Arbuso (Mary of Magdala), Ivy Dianne de Guzman (Mary Mother of Christ),

Corina Emerphy Santiago (Mary Mother of James), Roxane Francisco (Divina Pastora), Ma. Althea Loreen Fabular (Reina de las Estrellas), Frances Antheanae Ymalay (Rosa Mystica), Christine Parantar (Reyna Paz), Julienne Marie Batingal (Reyna de las Propetas), Korina Christelle Coquilla (Reyna del Cielo), Rizalie Bagnol (Reyna de las Virgines), Doreleen Que (Reyna de las Flores), Allena Sharm Rellon (Reyna Elena) and Dr. Rae Kara Malbog (Reyna Emperatriz). Prior to the procession, a Holy Mass was celebrated at the Parish of the Christ the Eucharistic King. A short program followed the parade at the Tagum City Trade Center and Cultural Pavilion where children and their parents converged, and where the special awards were announced. Dr. Malbog’s took home the title as Best Sagala, as well as the supreme award for arc design.

Panabo Santacruzan

The Panabo City Coucil of Women (PCCOW) successfully spearheaded the Panabo City Santacruzan 2014, “4th Maanyag sa Syudad” on May 30, 2014.wherein artistic arc, decorated floats and beautiful gowns of “Sagalas” were displayed along national highway toward ARF GYM during its procession. The procession was highlighted with the array of the “Sagalas of young and beautiful woman wearing gowns which represents the different titles

related with the Virgin Mary. They were led by a crucifix and carriage carrying the statue of the Virgin Mary, The mass was officiated by Rev. Fr. Randy Murillo at Sto. Niño Parish. Afterwards, a procession was held wherein devotees were offering and reciting prayers as they were moving from Sto. Niño Parish going to ARF Gym where the culmination program was held, showcasing the entrance of the Sagalas and “ Halad alang kang BerhengMaria”, a community floral offering made of the devotees to the Blessed Virgin Mary to her statue.

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Across the NationGovernment receives 32.31 billion pesos worth of dividends from GOCCs

In his speech during the 2014 GOCC Dividends Day, President Aquino attributed to good governance the increase in GOCC remittances since the enactment of R.A. 10149 or the GOCC Governance Act of 2011.

“Bawat taon, naisasabuhay ninyo (GOCCs) ang inyong tunay na layunin: Ang maging tagapagtaguyod ng

makabuluhang serbisyo at malawakang pag-unlad,” President Aquino said.

“Tapos na ang panahon kung kailan ang mga GOCC ay ginamit ng iilan para pakapalin ang sariling bulsa; kung saan ang mga GOCC ay ginawang tambayan at parking space ng mga kabarkada at alipores ng iilang makapangyarihan. Nagpatupad tayo ng reporma, at habang

President Benigno S. Aquino III witnessed the turnover of dividends worth P32.31 billion from 50 Government-

Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) at the Rizal Hall of Malacanang Palace on Monday.

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umuusad ang panahon, lalo nating pinagtitibay ito; lalo nating ginagawang masigasig ang pagtatrabaho tungo sa pagbabago; at lalong nagiging imposible na bumalik pa sa dating sistema,” he said.

The Chief Executive recalled that his administration’s detractors were pessimistic that reform could be made, considering the corruption in the GOCCs.

“Sa araw na ito, malinaw na malinaw: Hindi tayo katulad nila. Tingnan na lamang po natin ang kabuuang halaga ng dibidendong nailagak natin sa kaban ng bayan mula nang maisabatas ang ating GOCC Governance Act of 2011,” he said.

The GOCC Dividends Day is an annual ceremony, during which GOCCs declare and remit their earnings to the government, to be used for the betterment of the nation.

This year, 50 GOCCs contributed

a total of P32.31 billion worth of dividends and other remittances for 2013, compared to 38 GOCCs remitting a total of P29 billion in 2012.

Land Bank of the Philippines had the highest dividends remitted with P6.298 billion, while the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) had the highest total remittances with P9.791 billion.

Seven other GOCCs contributed more than P1 billion in dividends, among them the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Philippine National Oil Company – Exploration Corporation (PNOC-EC) and the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC).

The entire amount will be remitted to the National Treasury. PND

“Until May of this year, we have had P65 million spent for this effort, and this is precisely why we felt the need to augment and provide greater

support—budgetary and personnel support—for the effort,” Pangilinan said during a press briefing on Monday.

As of this month, 1.2 million trees in the

Secretary Pangilinan calls for support in dealing with coconut infestationPresidential Assistant for Food Security and Agriculture

Modernization Secretary Francis Pangilinan said he needs the support of the national and local governments to contain the infestation in the country’s coconut plantations.

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provinces of Batangas, Laguna, Quezon, Cavite, and Basilan have been affected by the pest Aspidiotus Rigidus, he said, noting that Batangas is the hardest hit with more than half a million trees.

“The pest can reach the Bicol region and Zamboanga Peninsula by the end of the year. That is why failure is not an option,” he said, adding that if left without intervention, the coconut farmers’ losses could reach up to 60 percent of their annual yield.

Asked about the origin of the pest, Pangilinan said similar pests could be found in Indonesia but they could not pinpoint the source as yet.

“We do not have the data and the evidence as to how it got into the country, but there is the possibility that this could have been brought in through Batangas ports, and by way of bringing in ornamental plants,” he said.

He said that to address the problem, the Scale Insect Emergency Action Program will be implemented.

“This is a six-month program beginning June, where we will do all these: pruning and burning of drying leaves, then we will do trunk injection. After which, there will be spraying using organic pesticide. After spraying, we will do release of biocontrol agents, which is the friendly kulisap, and then we will do fertilization, and strengthening or providing more sustenance and nutrients to the trees

so that they will recover faster,” he said.Checkpoints will also be set up to

prevent the spread of the infestation by way of infested coconuts, trunks and leaves, he said, adding that there will be livelihood interventions to address the damage and the farmers’ loss of income.

He estimated the budget at P765 million and projected the coconut industry’s economic recovery at two years.

According to Pangilinan, 3.5 million hectares, or 27 percent, of the country’s total agricultural land are planted with coconut.

There are 3.5 million coconut farmers and 25 million Filipinos are directly or indirectly dependent on the coconut industry, he said, adding that 60 percent of the world’s coconut exports come from the Philippines, earning the country about $1 billion per annum.

He thus called on the local governments, the community and the farmers to support the efforts to control the infestation.

“We need the cooperation of the communities that are affected so we can defeat this pest,” he said.

On June 5, President Benigno S. Aquino III issued Executive Order 169 on Establishing Emergency Measures to Control and Manage the Spread and Damage of Aspidiotus Rigidus in the Philippines and designating the Philippine Coconut Authority as the lead agency for the purpose. PND (ag)

10JUNE2014 | www.pia.gov.ph PAGE |

GPH, MILF chief negotiators recount road to Bangsamoro peace pact

The chief peace negotiators of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front

(MILF) brought over a hundred foreign and local participants of an international peace conference here Saturday down the memory lane of significant experiences in their peace negotiations that concluded with the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).


GPH, MILF chief negotiators recount road to Bangsamoro peace pact

The proposed Bangsamoro government will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao by 2016.

The Bangsamoro Basic Law, once approved by Congress and ratified by the constituents in the proposed territory, will legalize the creation of the Bangsamoro region that will bring shared prosperity and shared security not just in the Bangsamoro, but to Mindanao, the Philippines and its neighbors.

GPH peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer noted that the peace process between the GPH and MILF under the Aquino administration gained significant ground during the last three Ramadans, the fasting month of Islamic believers.

The breakthrough in the GPH-MILF peace talks came after the meeting between President Benigno S. Aquino III and MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim in Narita, Japan, with the help of the Japanese government, she recalled.

“That [historic] event [between the President and Murad] is now in the annals of the history of the peace negotiations on the Bangsamoro question,” Coronel-Ferrer said.

The meeting in Japan between the two leaders was strongly criticized as “ill-advised,” according to Coronel-Ferrer. But the truth is, it was the President himself who proposed it. He told the government peace panel “nahirapan na yata kayo to further the talks considering the ‘heaven and earth’ gap, to borrow the words of MILF [peace panel chair Mohager] Iqbal in describing the difference between the government and MILF positions.”

In all, the peace negotiations between the GPH and MILF spanned 17 years, culminating with the signing of the CAB, their final peace agreement, on March 27, 2014.

“Seventeen long years of hard and protracted peace process between the

government and the MILF is by no means not a short engagement,” Iqbal said, noting that the MILF was fully aware that the process would also be hard.

Iqbal said the CAB is inclusive to all, referring to the Moros, Christians, and Lumads, and “is not a prescription for the MILF, it is not for the MILF alone.”

“The Bangsamoro is a model in itself…[Although we know] that there are still many challenges ahead,” Iqbal said.

Coronel-Ferrer and Iqbal both spoke on the topic “Peace Process on the Bangsamoro: Significant Experiences” on the second and last day of the International Conference of Cotabato themed “Peace is Living Together: Religions and Cultures in Dialogue for Peace and Reconciliation in Mindanao.” It was organized by the Archdiocese of Cotabato, the Community of Sant’ Egidio, and Muhammadiyah, with the support of the European Union, the Italian government, and Notre Dame University.

Reverend Absalom Cerveza, spokesperson of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), who was one of the reactors, said that founding chair Nur Misuari is finally extending his congratulations to the GPH and the MILF for successfully concluding their negotiations through the CAB.

Misuari earlier reportedly opposed the CAB because of claims that it will abrogate the 1996 Final Peace Agreement between the MNLF and the government, which has been consistently debunked by the GPH.

“We congratulate the MILF for reaching this stage of the negotiations,” said Cerveza, stressing that he talked with Misuari before attending the conference and that he met with leaders of the MILF prior to his engagement in said event. (PNA)


NGCP’s “Balik Eskwela” program benefits DavSur gradersSTA. CRUZ, Davao del Sur– More than a thousand public elementary students from two recipient-towns in Davao del Sur province have recently benefited from the “Balik Eskwela” program of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). NGCP has shared on Monday school kits to 620 graders from Inawayan Elementary School and to 300 pupils from Darong Elementary School, both belonging to the municipality of Sta. Cruz. In Latian Elementary School in Kiblawan town, 250 pupils will also be provided with the school kits which comprised of one bag, notebooks and pencils per kit. The three school-recipients in Davao del Sur were part of the 17 school-beneficiaries of NGCP’s “Balik Eskwela” program for the entire Davao Region, including the towns of Arakan and Makilala in North Cotabato province. A total of 4,950 school kits were

allocated in these areas which were identified by the grid company in its fourth year implementation of the program. NGCP’s “Balik Eskwela” program is in line with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), catering to public school graders coming from low-income families in areas close to the communities hosting NGCP’s transmission lines and facilities. Romulo Elula, Inawayan barangay captain, was thankful to NGCP for helping the parents of the student-beneficiaries augment the school needs of their children. Elula was hoping that the assistance would not be the first, but would be a start for a continuous support from NGCP for the indigent constituents of the barangay. Bambi Capulong, NGCP communications officer, said the distribution of “Balik Eskwela” school kits would be completed this week being the second week of classes for public schools. (PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon)


City Mayor cites modern tech in solving high-profile crimeDAVAO CITY- Mayor Rodrigo Du-terte of Davao City cited modern technology as a key in helping solve a high-profile robbery ho-micide case involving a local busi-nessman. “The use of technical apparatus was very spectacular.” Mayor Duterte said during a press conference held last Monday (June 9) describing the process in which the police pieced together the crime, which led to the apprehension of the suspects. Ramon T.Y. Garcia, a businessman who owns the popular Nanay Bebeng Restaurant and a newspaper columnist was found dead last Friday (June 6) in a ravine in Davao del Sur while his car was found burned in Sarangani Province. He was last seen leaving a hotel bar in downtown Davao in the evening of June 5. Police arrested the two suspects Daisy Joy Cachapero and Ariel John Jamora Llawan. Cachapero was last seen with the victim before he disappeared. Duterte said that using modern technology, they were able to track down the vehicle. “As a matter of fact in a little over seven hours alam na naming kung saan ang kotse, saan sinunog (we know where the car was and where it was burned) and where the body of Mr. Garcia was thrown in

a ravine.” CCTV cameras installed across the city were able to monitor the vehicle as it criss-crossed the city unto Davao del Sur. When they were no longer able to monitor Garcia’s car returning to the city he said they feared that the businessman was brought to places like Cotabato, Zamboanga, Cagayan, Marawi, Agusan where they could no longer monitor the victim’s location. Davao City is known for having high-resolution CCTV cameras installed in different strategic areas.Duterte said the City has other high-tech surveillance but he is not in liberty to reveal what he said were secret gadgets. He said these equipment is very important particularly during search for missing or kidnapped persons. “24 hours is very very critical hindi pa sila nakakalayo.”(they are not yet that far) The Mayor also commended the police team who walked the extra mile to solve the crime during the press conference. As a token of appreciation Mayor Duterte gave a brand-new Taurus snubnose .38 pistol to Davao City Police Office chief Police Senior Superintendent Vicente Danao. (PIA/RG Alama)


Agnor lines up activities for its 47th founding anniv BUTUAN CITY- The province of Agusan del Norte will be celebrating its 47th founding anniversary this month of June.

By Nora L. Molde


The celebration will be highlighted by the State of the Province Address (SOPA) of Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba on June 17 at 2:00 p.m. in time with the 5th Special Session of the 16th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte at the capitol covered court here.

The SOPA comprises the report of the Governor Amante, her accomplishments covering the period from July 1 when she assumed office as the governor of the province up to December 31, 2013.

Other activities during the celebration include a “Dart for a Cause” on June 6 to 8 and Governor’s Cup on June 1 to 12 to be held at the provincial capitol covered court.

On June 12, local officials and employees will be celebrating our 116th Philippine Independence Day with the theme, “Pagsunod sa Yapak ng mga Dakilang Pilipino, Tungo sa Malawakan at Permanenteng Pagbabago.” A Flag Raising Ceremony, thanksgiving mass and opening program for the province’s founding anniversary will be held at the Capitol Ground at 7:00 a.m.

A tree planting activity/Arbor Day will also be conducted on June 13 at Tagnote Falls in barangay

San Antonio in the municipality of RTR and barangay Sanghan in Cabadbaran City.

Employees of the local government of Cabadbaran City will also be having their Employee’s day on June 13.

On June 16, a People’s Day will be held at municipalities of Santiago and Las Nieves, Cabadbaran City and Provincial Health Office. A KaPuso Fiesta Show will also be held at the park of the municipality of Santiago at 2:00 p.m., and a Pageant Night at the municipal gym in the municipality of Santiago.

The AGRO Fair will be opened to the public on June 16 at the provincial capitol grounds, and a Barangay Night will be held on the evening of June 17 at the provincial capitol covered court.


In his message to the workers, which was read by Manuelito Suan the Head of his District Constituency Office, Fortun gave emphasis on the contribution of the Day Care workers “who have painstakingly provided substitute parental care and early childhood education to children 2-4 years old inside government operated Day Care centers nationwide.”

The solon also said that today more than ever as our country is witnessing the impeccable importance of values formation even

in the early years to the children. “Issues of corruption, malpractices and what not, may have tainted early and fickle minds of our youth, I call upon you, as front-liners in the molding our children, to always inculcate unto the minds of our young children two things: rectitude and values,” Fortun said. He also added that “the story of every Day Care worker is a story of compassion, and concern for others, even at times of daunting and opposition.”

“Today as we commemorate

Agusan Norte solon pays tribute to Day Care workers, calls them ‘unnamed heroes’ By LAWig Katawhan

BUTUAN CITY- Agusan del Norte First District Representative Lawrence “Law” Fortun paid tribute to the Day Care workers of Caraga region by calling them the “unnamed heroes of our country” during the Caraga Regional Day Care Workers’ Summit held at the Caraga State University (CSU) Gymnasium in commemoration of the National Day Care Workers’ Week.


Agusan Norte solon pays tribute to Day Care workers, calls them ‘unnamed heroes’

National Day Care Workers Week, we pay homage and recognition to every little contribution in the delivery of quality early childhood education and development. I’d like to commend every members of the Caraga Regional Day Care Worker’s Foundation,” Fortun added.

In summing up Fortun told the workers “you have not only brought compassion and service to the forefronts of the communities you have been servicing, but more

importantly, you have brought light – a light of hope, inspiration and new beginnings. In finding our natural devotion, let us continue to feel with our people, let us continue to spread light and love to the poor and vulnerable sectors of our community, especially our children. Continue to be a symbol not only of ‘matuwid na daan’ but also ‘maliwanag na daan’ as your luminance symbolizes the beacon of hope and inspiration.”

Kalahi-CIDSS scales-up with 1,119 completed community sub-projects in Caraga by Eunice G. Montaos

BUTUAN CITY-- A total of 1,119 sub-projects were completed from 2003-2013 implementation of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), an anti-poverty project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

This project covered 42 municipalities/cities in Caraga region which are the following:

Agusan del Norte - Carmen, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Las Nieves, RTR, Butuan City, Cabadbaran City, and Santiago;

Agusan del Sur- Esperanza, La Paz, Loreto, San Luis, Sibagat, Sta.Josefa, and Veruela;

Province of Dinagat Islands- Basilisa, Cagdianao, Dinagat, Libjo, and Tubajon;

Surigao del Norte- Alegria, Burgos, Del Carmen, Gigaquit, Mainit, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, Socorro, Sta.

Monica, Surigao City, and Tubod; and

Surigao del Sur- Barobo, Bayabas, Bislig City, Cagwait, Hinatuan, Lingig, Marihatag, San Agustin, San Miguel, and Tagbina.

“With its successful implementation, the project has networked to different funding partners which contributed more in its progress,” bared Regional Project Manager and DSWD assistant regional director for Operations Mita G. Lim.

“Other modalities that the Project had facilitated are the


Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), Grassroots Participatory Budgeting Process (GPBP), Makamasang Tugon (MT), PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA), Agencia Española de Cooperacion Internacional para el Desarollo (AECID) Poder y Prosperidad dela Comunidad Project (Empowerment and Development of Communities) (PODER), and Community-Driven Development (CDD) Urban,” she added.

The sub-projects delivered to poor

communities are the following: 203 school classrooms, 167 day care centers, 150 water systems, 123 health stations, 114 electrification projects, 98 environmental protection structure and preservation projects, 97 road projects, 96 community production and service facilities, 25 foot/small bridges, 20 multi-purpose centers, 18 human development centers, 7 capability building projects, and 1 other.

The total Kalahi-CIDSS grant released to communities for sub-project implementation amounts to Php 749, 763, 186.32.

Each municipal and barangay local government units (B/MLGUs) of the recipient localities also assisted through the provision of a local counterpart contribution (LCC), both in-cash and in-kind, which totals to Php 237, 150, 923.31.

Those 1, 119 sub-projects completed within 11 years of Kalahi-

CIDSS implementation in Caraga, are worth Php 1, 031, 914, 109.93 in toto.

“We are very happy to account that for 11 years of implementing Kalahi-CIDSS in the region, the Department was able to facilitate the implementation of 1, 119 community sub-projects which aided the need of our beneficiaries of basic social services,” shared DSWD regional director Minda B. Brigoli.

“Now this wonderful journey of helping people help themselves continues with the onset of the KC-NCDDP which will run from 2014-2019,” she said.

The Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach used by the project has been proven effective as it transformed many Poor communities and lives of the people in the grassroots sector. This strategy, which will be expanded into a national setting, advances three principles which are the participatory, transparency, and accountability.

Empower communities, improve local governance, and reduce poverty remain the primary aims of the project as it will scale-up into a national program with an official name which is the KALAHI CIDSS-National Community-Driven Development Program (KC-NCDDP). This will be implemented in the municipalities with high poverty incidence and were affected by the Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).

Dominga MallongaDOST-Caraga Regional Director

for more details visit us DOST National Website: http://www.dost.gov.phDOST Caraga Website: http://caraga.dost.gov.ph


PAGADIAN CITY – To promote service responsiveness and transparency in the state-run pension fund, the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) will hold a consultative meeting with its stakeholders through representatives of public sector unions at Chandler Suites, this city from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on June 13, 2014.

GSIS-Public Sector Unions’ consultation slated June 13 By Alma L. Tingcang


GSIS-Public Sector Unions’ consultation slated June 13

Cocolisap infestation remains, PCA-9 seeks funds to save coco industryBy Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – There seems to be no stopping for this scale insect (locally named as cocolisap), which attacks the coconuts, to spread its infestation in the city as more areas have been invaded by this destructive insect. The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) here said that operations and activities to control the infestation have stopped due to lack of funds. With no control program, the spread of infestation continues. In his presentation at the 147th Regional Development Council-9 in Isabela city last June 5, Pedro Rufu N. Soliven, RDC Economic Development Committee (EDCom)-9 chairperson revealed that PCA-9 sought funds from the national government and asked the RDC-9 for endorsement

to expedite the request of funds. “One of the challenges in the coconut production in the Philippines is the presence of scale insect, which greatly hampers the growth of the coconut and thereby restricts farmers towards gaining a better income,” he said. A discussion ensued as to how serious is the local government and the agencies concerned in enforcing the laws and mitigation measures to prevent the spread of the infestation.

Engr. Leoncito S. Manuel, GSIS branch manager said the dialogue aims to provide an update on the initiatives and reforms undertaken by the pension fund as well as foster closer ties between GSIS and its stakeholders. He said the consultation-dialogue will be attended by GSIS trustees Ms. Karina Constantino-David and Mr. Mario J. Aguja. About 100 presidents of government unions/associations in Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay are expected to attend the activity.


George G. Ledesma, a Private Sector Representative (PSR) argued that the strategies employed by the concerned agency (PCA) did not work, as farmers refused to cut down heavily infested trees. In this case, Ledesma argued that ‘the government should already intervene and enforce the strict cutting of heavily infested coconut trees so as not to affect more trees.” In region 9, coconut scale insect infestation has been observed in the Isabela City. It was first sighted in the barangays of Cabunbata and Maligue in the said city on Oct. 9, 2012. Since then, infections have been observed in both bearing and non-bearing coconuts, as well as, ornamental palms, lanzones, and mango, which are planted under the coconut. An RDC report revealed that as of May 22, 2014, the infestation has spread out to 17 barangays involving 67,338 coconut palms with 1,073 farmers affected. The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Isabela City adopted Resolution No. 13-4644 on July 23, 2013 banning the shipment of coconut seed nuts and seedlings out of the city of Isabela due to alarming insect infestation. In response, PCA-9, as the concerned agency, provided the necessary training and massive information drive with IEC materials. It conducted activities relative to the concern, to include application of control methods, construction of mini laboratory, mass release of 8,802 beetles on-farm, hired 52

emergency laborers (only until April 15, 2014 due to lack of funds). Unfortunately, PCA’s control operations have to temporarily stop due to lack of funds. PCA submitted its work and financial plan for April until December 2014 amounting to P4,802,300 to its Central Office, for consideration. This amount is specifically intended to support activities that aim to eliminate and prevent the feared wider coverage of the infestation. Some members believed that the amount requested was too small but presiding officer RDC Acting Chairperson Teresita Socorro C. Ramos asked the members not to deprived PCA with this urgent request. The proposal was submitted back to the EDCom for further study and review the sufficiency of the amount requested, including discussion of more effective measures. Scale insect (Aspidiotus Destructor Signoret) is a soft-bodied 5mm long fluid-feeding insect that invades coconuts and other palm and fruit trees.


Iligan City joins World Ocean Day coastal clean-upby Lorry V. Gabule

ILIGAN CITY - The Embassy of the United States of America in Manila, spearheaded the annual observation to honor the world’s oceans following the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development declaration.

Romeo James Halley L. Paculba


At exactly 6:30am, volunteers, students and different organizations in Iligan City actively participated the regional simultaneous activity entitled: “Coastal Clean-up Day: I Love the Ocean” in celebration of World’s Ocean Day on June 9, 2014 at Barangay Santiago coastal area near Barangay Hall, Purok 5, this city. The barangay was severely affected by Typhoon Sendong in 2011. Ayana Jamnia Maranda, U.S. Government scholar alumni representing Iligan City, under the Philippine Youth Delegation Scholarship Program, said the activity is in line with Department of State Secretary Kerry’s “Our Ocean’s Conference” happening end of this month. It aims to increase awareness on the value of the seas and to gather participants in its protection. We had a countdown declaring the start of the clean-up to three areas nationwide: Iligan City for Mindanao, Dumaguete City for Visayas, and Parañaque for Luzon. A briefing on how to take care of our ocean/seas was conducted before the clean-up started addressing the settlers in the barangay who got also involved in the day’s activity. The group was able to gather along the shore garbage like plastics, twigs, drift wood, dried leaves and some empty plastic bottles. As a nationwide event, the Embassy’s social media team is stationed to monitor using the official hash tag #OurOcean2014 as it also aims to raise awareness through social media. The day’s activity was highlighted with a Boat Rowing Contest participated

by the local settlers, five boats in a row handled by two female partner per boat. Prices include P1, 500 worth of grocery pack for first and P1,000 and P500 worth of grocery pack for second and third. Consolation prices were also given to non-winners. Meanwhile in Dumaguete, it was highlighted with Arts Waste Recycling, and in Luzon, a physical conditioning activity through Zumba/Taebo exercise. The observance of World Ocean Day was made possible through the U.S. State Department, U.S. Embassy- Manila United States Government Alumni from Mindanao, in collaboration with Barangay Santiago Officials and settlers, Barangay Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Management Council (BFARMC), American Field Service Inter Cultural Learning - Iligan Chapter, Philippine Youth Leadership Program, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) Department of Psychology, College of Arts Social Science Executive Council (CASS), Muslim Organization in MSU-IIT, and the Iligan Bloggers Society.


AFP welcomes new NPA surrendereesby Maj. Christian C. Uy

CAMP OSITO BAHIAN, Malaybalay City - General Emmanuel Bautista, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), made his rounds in 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade army camp in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, June 5, to meet the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who recently surrendered.

The 54 rebels, who surrendered through AFP’s 8th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Romualdo Raymund Landingin, are former members of Guerrilla Front 34 led by a certain Emboy Casal Gayaw alias Rixan operating in Bukidnon, Davao, and Agusan provinces. They also surrendered cache of firearms such as US M1 Garand, US M1 Carbine, US Springfield M1, Thompson, Cal .22 rifle, Shotguns, Cal.45 pistols and revolvers of different calibers. “They decided to lay down their arms after learning of the integration and livelihood programs that the government has in store for them,” Lt. Col. Landingin said. The surrenderees are now temporarily housed in 403rd Infantry

Brigade headquarters while processing their claims. They will also undergo reorientation seminar to prepare them to join the mainstream society before they will be formally accepted through a ceremony. Maj. Gen. Ricardo Visaya, commander of the AFP’s 4th Infantry Division, meanwhile, said they believe that more NPA rebels would lay down their arms after seeing their former comrades now living in peace. He said this is the fourth time that the 4th Infantry Division experienced huge influx of surrenderees since it launched the government’s guns for peace program last year. The first was in October 31 where 35 NPA rebels with 39 firearms surrendered. Soon after, another 72 rebels with 69 lethal weapons surrendered in March 27. The most recent was in May 21 where 97 rebels laid down 93 units of assorted firearms. “We encourage the remaining members of the NPA to come down from the mountains, lay down their arms, reunite with their loved ones, and return to the mainstream of our society. Our government is working hard for their safety and well-being,” he said.


TAYO launches 12th Search for Outstanding Youth Organizationsby NYC

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - “I refuse to call this generation a me-generation but rather a we-generation, or a TAYO-generation, because ours is a generation that innovates and finds solutions for the welfare of this shared world, for the welfare of our country, the Philippines,” said Carla Cucueco, in behalf of the TAYO awardees and finalists in Malacañang Palace, early this year.

In the past 11 years, Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Foundation, Inc. have seen how youth organizations revolutionized our society through social innovations. The works of TAYO-affiliated youth groups have shed greater light on the needs of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and children with special needs; they have allowed for controversial issues such as HIV/AIDS, prostitution, and sex to now be discussed more openly and more constructively. They have mobilized communities and resources against disaster and hunger, for the environment and education; and they have maximized their available, innate skills and talents to find sustainable solutions without the traditional, “it can’t be done” attitude. This year, TAYO continues to seek for ‘stories of change’ as the 12th Search for Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO 12) officially launches today. TAYO Awards Foundation and the National Youth Commission (NYC) will be accepting entries from all over the country until

the deadline, 30 September 2014. TAYO Search is held annually to provide duly-deserved incentives and recognition to the country’s best youth groups, thus, encouraging youth involvement in nation-building and best practices-sharing among organizations. It also maintains a yearly-updated database of the nation’s youth organizations. Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, Inc., the Search Presentor, grants P50,000 to the 10 winning organizations and P25,000 is granted to the other organizations that make it to the National Finals. Apart from the prestigious recognition, the winning organizations receive an especially commissioned trophy sculpted by Mr. Toym De Leon Imao. Entries will be evaluated using the following general criteria: Impact of the Project Entry to Stakeholders; Harnessing the Spirit of Volunteerism and Citizenship; Creativity and Innovation; Sustainability; and, Effective Use of Resources. TAYO 12 is open to all youth groups, organizations, clubs, and


societies whose membership and leadership are composed of at least 15 youth members (15-30 years old). Established in 2002, TAYO Foundation is the only known award-

giving body for outstanding youth organizations in the Philippines. It aims to discover and laud exceptional youth organizations that have contributed to the development of their local communities, schools, or work places, through their innovative projects. To date, more than 1000 youth organizations have joined the search and are now part of the fast-growing TAYO youth network. To know more about the search, information is available in www.tayoawards.net. An online entry form can be filled out at the TAYO website. For inquiries, TAYO Secretariat can be contacted through text at 0917 TXT-TAYO (898-8296) or e-mail at [email protected]. TAYO Year 12 is organized by the TAYO Awards Foundation, Office of Senator Bam Aquino, and the National Youth

Commission. Presented by Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, it is sponsored by SMART, Aboitiz, Jollibee, Philippine Airlines, SM Foundation and Lenovo.

one mindanao - june 10, 2014

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