one mindanao - june 11, 2014

Echostore in DavaoRG AlamaSOUTHERN MINDANAO WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 197

Secretary Pangilinan calls for support in dealing with coconut infestation

NATIONAL

9

Page 4

WESTERN REGION

NORTHERN MINDANAO

ARMM

CARAGA REGION

City Mayor cites modern tech in solving high-profile crime

PCAPI launches “Adopt a Estero Program” in Dipolog

GSIS extends deadline for submission of applications for scholarship program

Muslim religious leaders undergo training for post-marriage counseling

ENGAGE project expands area of coverage in Lanao del Sur

Search is on for USAID internship program

Environment body set to inspect river, creek in Bukidnon

Chamber eyed as economic driver in Dinagat Islands

Tandag City is all set for 116th Philippine Independence celeb

14

29 31 34

37 38

35 19 17

Information to Empower Filipinos

11 7 13

SOUTHERN MINDANAO

Nida Grace P. Barcena

Alfonso T. Ruda

Gideon C. Corgue

Vincent N. Labial

Apipa P. Bagumbaran

Apipa P. Bagumbaran

RG Alama

CdeOSP

Eunice G. Montaos

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 197

Echostore in Davao

Sarah Claudio along with her sister-in-law Elle had one thing in common, both are dynamic health-

conscious young individuals. Their common passion had led them to open up a concept social enterprise, the Echostore.

ECHO is an acronym which stands for E for Environment, C for Community, H for hope, and O for organization. The social enterprise which is the first of its kind in the country was founded by Chit Juan, Jeannie Javelosa and Renee Francisco. The store is a unique tri-partite partnership between the private sector, the non-government organizations and the communities pushing for sustainable lifestyle, ECHO stores sells a wide-range of products sourced from indigenous and creative communities, companies that espouse fair labor practices, farms that practice organic

agriculture a n d a m o n g many other sustainable social enterprises. The first Echostore opened in 2008 in Serendra, Bonifacio Global City and by 2011 it had partnered with 82 foundations and organizations, 131 micro-entrepreneurs, featured 3,400 products and had about 34,420 beneficiaries. Davao is the fourth ECHO Store across the country and the first outside Manila. Elle and Sarah had to undergo weeks of training in

by RG Alama

COVER STORY

5

ECHO store in Serendra to prepare them for their Davao venture. “Dabawenyos are more health-conscious nowadays. We see fitness centres sprouting all over the city, organic fairs and markets are more evident…people in Davao are simply seeking healthier food alternatives and “want” to adapt a healthier lifestyle. Locavorism and pinoy-centric advocates are emerging creating a specialty market for the food and retail goods we offer. “ says Sarah Claudio during an interview at their Echostore. F o u n d in the store is a menagerie of alternative, o r g a n i c p r o d u c t s many of which are products of community livelihood enterprises, among these include organic robusta coffee from Sulu, unsweetened chocolates from Malagos, fruit jams from South Cotabato among many other Mindanaoan products. The organic robusta coffee from Sulu is an project of coffee for a cause dedicated to peacebuilding initiatives in Jolo.

Another featured line of products in Echostore Davao is the Padre Ninno line of gourmet f o o d

products like bottled pasta

sauces and vegetables. The

products particularly the sundried tomatoes are

grown by the Matigsalog indigenous people community in Marilog under the guidance of Italian priest Fr. Franco Uras. Proceeds from the sale of Padre Ninno goes to the indigenous host community. “I’ve been wanting to put up a social enterprise. Being in the retail business for 7 years, I felt that Echostore would have been

the perfect business model. I just chanced upon the flagship store in Serendra at the Global City in Taguig sometime March last year.” Sarah recalls her first encounter with an Echostore. Sarah had been dubbed as a serial entrepreneur establishing new businesses since resigning from her job in Makati six years ago. She established the fashion brand SunLab a summer-theme fashion boutique in Gaisano Mall, invested in a franchise of Penongs- a popular chicken barbeque chain, and put-up For The Love of Prints a specialty print-shop. After attending a Gawad Kalinga Business Summit in Bulacan, Sarah saw the potentials of a business which pushes and caters to individuals following the principles of sustainable living. Which Sarah says is a growing market. W i t h available space in a family-owned building, where her brother Paolo also maintains his office, Sarah and Paolo’s wife Elle got in touch with the Echostore founders and inquired about the licensing.

“ I really felt that it was the perfect business to put up in a location that is off-downtown, making it a “destination” store.” Located in Davao’s Diversion road which is a few minutes away from the Central Business District or the poblacion, the store attracts a growing clientele particularly a stream of diners wanting to indulge in Echostore’s organic food menu that consists of healthy salads, soups, sandwiches and pasta. Sarah says Echostore is worth visiting as the tri-concept of a cafe, store and market that advocates sustainable lifestyle is a concept something new to Davao.

7 JUNE| PAGE

Across the NationPresident Aquino receives credentials of 10 non-resident ambassadors to the Philippines

They are Ambassadors Hannes Heimisson of Iceland, Michal Slivovic of the Slovak Republic, Clifford Borg-Marks of Malta, Senkoun Sylla of the Republic of Guinea, Raisa Vardanyan of the Republic of Armenia, Thomas Kijiner of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Betty Grace Akech-Okullo of the Republic of Uganda, Pantelakis Eliades

of the Republic of Cyprus, Andres Unga of the Republic of Estonia, and Clement Philip Ricardo Allicock of Jamaica.

In his speech, President Aquino welcomed them to the country and expressed hope that their presence would continue to deepen relations and further enhance partnerships between the Philippines and their respective countries.

President Benigno S. Aquino III received the credentials of 10 non-resident ambassadors designated to the Philippines in a

simple ceremony at the Rizal Hall of Malacañang Palace on Tuesday.

8 JUBE 2014 | PAGE

“In a continuously shrinking world, we have to acknowledge our interdependence with one another, and work shoulder to shoulder to promote stability, which is a necessary condition for growth that leaves no one behind. And truly, I am thankful that our country has been able to work with diplomats who have not just maintained our good relations, but have worked tirelessly to maximize our partnership,” he said.

The President emphasized the reforms the government has been doing for the past four years.

“These past four years, our people have empowered us on our campaign to reform the way the government works. It has been our people who have given us the wherewithal to truly dismantle the vicious cycle of corruption, negativity, and underachievement that has long held our country back, and to replace it with a virtuous cycle where true public service, social justice, and compassion for one’s fellowmen are able to build a true regime of opportunities for our countrymen,” he said.

He noted that the Philippines is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia, despite the spate of disasters that befell it in the past year.

“We have regained the capacity to undertake large-scale programs in social services that will equip our people with the skills they need to take charge of their own destinies. Higher, brighter skylines are rising in our cities, while the countryside is becoming increasingly connected to hubs of industry and commerce; and international organizations, publications, and neighboring countries alike are finally recognizing the potential of the entire nation,” he added.

President Aquino thanked the envoys for the help their respective countries had extended to the Philippines during the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda).

“Typhoon Haiyan continues to serve as a reminder to me of just how much can be achieved when the entire global community cooperates closely. It only emphasizes the value of our partnerships—partnerships that will undoubtedly allow us to continue pursuing our shared interests and serve our people in the best manner possible,” he said.

The President wished the ambassadors a pleasant stay in the country throughout their visit.

President Aquino was joined by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario during the event. PND

9 JUNE| PAGE

The fulfillment of this ASEAN integration dream will not come as one big bang but it will gradually unfold and blossom, Coloma said.

“As ministers responsible for information, ours is the vital yet daunting task of creating heightened

awareness and continually raising the consciousness of our peoples about the significance of the ASEAN Community,” Coloma said in a statement for the participants of the 12th Conference of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for

Coloma highlights role of media in regional integration

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. has said that the media will play a

significant role in raising awareness as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) prepares for regional integration next year.

10 JUBE 2014 | PAGE

Information being held in Nay Pyi Taw in Myanmar from June 9 to 13.

He said there is a need to reach a common understanding on the concept of “socially responsible media.”

In the Philippines, freedom of expression is highly valued, he said, adding that freedom of the press is also guarded with extraordinary zeal and vigilance.

The government is also firmly committed to upholding the principles of openness, transparency and public accountability and has institutionalized full disclosure of national and local budget, major disbursements and procurements, and implementation of programs and projects, he added.

He noted that the Aquino government has endeavored to engage private media practitioners and organizations, as well as members of civil society, in continuing dialogue to bridge differences in perspective and build common ground for collaborative action.

At the same time, Coloma

renewed the country’s commitment to ASEAN community building.

He said that in recent meetings, the Philippines has actively espoused the formulation of national communication plans that are aligned with the three communication plans of the ASEAN Political-Security Community, ASEAN Economic Community, and ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community.

The Myanmar conference on information has the theme, “Socially Responsible Media for a Peaceful and Prosperous ASEAN Community”.

The next Conference of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information will be held in Manila in March 2016.

The members of the Philippine delegation are Undersecretary George Syliangco and Undersecretary Jess Yu of PCOO, Asec. Virgilio P. Nadal, Jr. of Radio-TV Malacañang, Philippine Information Agency Director Belina Capul, Philippine Broadcast System Director Tito G. Cruz, PCOO Directors Ma. Cristina C. Mariano and Ma. Cecilia Javillonar. PND

11JUNE2014 | www.pia.gov.ph PAGE |

Draft Bangsamoro Basic Law to be submitted to Congress in July -- Palace

The much-awaited draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will be submitted to Congress when sessions resume in July so it can

finally be passed for approval by the end of the year, Malacanang said on Tuesday.


The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said efforts have already been made to coordinate with the Senate and House leadership to ensure the proposed law is presented to Congress next month.

“Our main focus is the finished product, which is an enacted law. And we still believe that this is achievable within the original time frame of within this year,” said Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma in a press briefing.

Coloma said the government needed enough time to thoroughly review the draft BBL with respect to its constitutionality.

”There are many qualitative changes in concepts that had to be embodied in the draft bill… Hence, ‘no stone is left unturned’ or no effort is spared to ensure that there is a comprehensive understanding of the concepts that will be espoused when the draft bill

is debated in Congress,” he said.Executive Secretary Paquito

N. Ochoa Jr. and Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) Chair Mohagher Iqbal recognized that a comprehensive review of the draft law’s numerous provisions is needed to ensure these are consistent with what the parties agreed upon in the 17 years of peace negotiation.

“We believe that investing time in this process will redound to the benefit of all, laying the foundations for peace, prosperity, and progress in Mindanao -- a precious legacy that will be cherished by generations of Filipinos, especially our Muslim brothers and sisters in Mindanao, for years to come,” they said in a statement.

Ochoa and Iqbal noted that President Benigno S. Aquino III expects a law that is “equitable, practical, and empowering, and which serves the interests of the entire nation.”

Photo credit: www.rappler.com


24 DavSur former rebels get P1.5M livelihood assistanceDIGOS CITY- Davao del Sur-Some 24 former rebels (FRs) from the New People’s Army in Davao del Sur received on Monday livelihood assistance worth P1.560 million from the government under the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP). Each FR accepted a check amounting to P65,000 from Davao del Sur Governor Claude P. Bautista who was assisted by Col. Ronald Villanueva, commander of 1002nd Infantry Brigade, 10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, during a turn-over ceremony. The awarding of the assistance was made possible through the joint efforts of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP), Davao del Sur provincial local government unit and the 39th Infantry Battalion. The implementation of CLIP’s

livelihood assistance is under the auspices of OPAPP, which aims to encourage NPA rebels to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law. “We encourage all NPA rebels to take advantage of the government’s integration program. It will provide you an opportunity to return back to your families and communities and together we shall solve our problems the peaceful way,” said Lt. Col. Apollo Jun Lamaton, commanding officer of the 39th IB. Gov. Bautista urged the rebel returnees to give their trust to the government. “It is always our wish to live in peace and harmony with the people in the community. It is only through harmonious relationship that we could achieve

by Carina Cayon


City Mayor cites modern tech in solving high-profile crime

DAVAO CITY- Mayor Rodrigo Duterte of Davao City cited modern technology as a key

in helping solve a high-profile robbery homicide case involving a local businessman.

our quest of living in a peaceful and well-developed province,” the governor stated during the turn-over rights at the provincial capitol, in Digos City on June 9. Col. Villanueva, on the other hand, encouraged the FRs to use the assistance sensibly to help them start a new life and obtain a decent living. “We are always behind all your efforts to live in peace and

tranquility. If you have problems in the future, you could always rely on us,” Villanueva has said. Aside from the cash assistance, the local government through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office facilitated the enrolment of the FRs to the PhilHealth program of the government. (CMO-39th IB/Aldrin Moral/PIA-XI, CLC)


“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 discovered burned in Sarangani Province. He was last seen leaving a hotel bar in downtownDavao 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 photo credit CheChe Diabordo)


19th Caraga Business Conference set in Tandag CityBUTUAN CITY- The Tandag Chamber of Commerce and Industry Incorporated (TCCII), in coordination with the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur and the Provincial Micro Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council will be hosting the 19th Caraga Business Conference on June 27, 2014 at Villa Maria Luisa Hotel in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.

By Jennifer P. Gaitano


19th Caraga Business Conference set in Tandag City

According to TCCII president Emma Guerra, the one-day conference carries the theme, “Agri-Fishery and Tourism: Gearing Up for the 2015 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Integration.”

“Simultaneous to this is a trade fair that will be held just right within the venue of the conference. We will be inviting speakers to talk on issues concerning agriculture, fishery, tourism and the 2015

ASEAN integration,” bared Guerra.

Also, Guerra said a registration fee of P1,000.00 will be charged per participant in this activity to defray the cost of food, kit and souvenir program.

For more information, the TCCII can be reached at cellphone number: 09123519683 and look for secretariat Jasmine Roz or email at [email protected].

Tandag City is all set for 116th Philippine Independence celebBy Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur- The city government of Tandag headed by Mayor Roxanne Pimentel is all set for a simple commemoration of this year’s 116th Philippine Independence Day with a nationwide simultaneous flag raising at 8:00 a.m., tomorrow.


Based on the distributed program of activities, the celebration will start at 6:00 a.m. with a solemn mass at the San Nicolas de Tolentino Cathedral. Accordingly, a motorcade will then follow as part of its public awareness campaign and will be joined by the officials/employees of the different government agencies (both local and national), civil society organizations, academe, students and other stakeholders.

This year’s theme is, “Following the Footsteps of Great Filipinos, Towards Widespread and Lasting Change.”

Meanwhile, DILG provincial

director Pedrito Alacaba said that he has already reminded all the local chief executives in Surigao del Sur to conduct the simultaneous flag raising and wreath laying tomorrow.


Chamber eyed as economic driver in Dinagat Islands

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands-- “Dinagat Chamber will become an economic driver in the Province of Dinagat Islands (PDI).”

This was the prevailing feeling as 30 businessmen attended the two-day strategic planning workshop of the Dinagat Islands Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIPCCI) held at the Provincial Guest Center, Brgy. Cuarinta, San Jose, Province of Dinagat Islands recently.

The planning workshop resulted in the crafting of the vision, mission and goals of DIPCCI.

Personnel from DTI-Caraga Regional Office, Arcily C. Gonzaga and Ramil J. Leongas, facilitated the activity that laid the direction of the chamber for the next three years. Resource speakers from the provincial government of PDI and DTI also provided additional inputs for the participants.

Alberto A. Apolinario, Statistician III of PPDO-PDI, presented the PDI

Provincial Economic Profile; Danilo C. Bulabos, Provincial Tourism Officer, presented the Dinagat Islands Tourism Development Roadmap; and Arnold D. Faelnar, OIC/Team Leader of DTI-PDI, discussed the Industry Clustering and Value Chain Strategies.

DIPCCI officials and members were pleased with the strong support of the provincial and local governments of PDI as well as DTI not just for the successful activity but also for their commitment of support to the provincial chamber for the next three years.

The seminar workshop was conducted by DTI-Province of Dinagat Islands Field Office in coordination with the PDI Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO).

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


IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – The cleft lip and palate operations sponsored by the Maharlika Charity Foundation, Inc. started Monday catering to over 100 patients from the provinces of Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Marawi City, and Basilan.

Cleft lip, palate operations kick off in Ipil townBy Emmanuel D. Taghoy


There were 60 patients screened, but only 42 were cleared for operation. Others got disqualified as they are suffering from cough and other illnesses. Dr. Benedict Edward P. Valdez, vice president for public relations and director for mission of the Maharlika Charity Foundation, Inc. said those patients who did not pass the weight requirement could not be operated on as well. “The weight of a person is an indication of one’s health, either he is malnourished or not, especially for infants,” he added. Dubbed “Smile Train, changing the world one smile at a time,” the activity has been attended by four surgeons and three anesthesiologists from Davao City, with one coming

from Zamboanga City. They are holding the said operations at the Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Hospital in this municipality. As of this writing, 10 patients were already operated on and 38 more would follow out of the 92 patients who passed the screening. Dr. Valdez explained that the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate can either be that the mother during pregnancy is less in folic acid or that the syndrome may have been genetic or hereditary. The activity has also been made possible in collaboration with the 102nd Infantry “Igsoon” Brigade and the provincial government of Zamboanga Sibugay.


PCAPI launches “Adopt a Estero Program” in Dipolog By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) here, in partnership with the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines Inc. (PCAPI) and the local government unit of Dipolog City conducted a cleanup drive Thursday in one of the water tributaries in the city in support of the the “Adopt a Estero Program.” Residents of Barangay Sta. Isabel, personnel from the Provincial Environmenet and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) and Community

Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), city government officials and employees, officers and members of Pollution Control


Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PCAPI), beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program(4Ps) and representatives from Environment Management Bureau (EMB)-9 joined the cleanup activity. PCAPI-Zamboanga del Norte Chapter President Javier Suico Jr. said PCAPI was organized in Sept. 2012 with pollution control officers as members. “We formed this organization because of our concern on environment. The greatest enemy of environment is man itself. So, we have to correct the mistakes that man has committed to our environment,” Suico said. During the opening program, Barangay Sta. Isabel Chaiman Dioscoro Endab thanked PCAPI

for choosing the Miputak Creek of Barangay Sta. Isabel as the pilot area for the launching of “Adopt a Estero Program.” “Through this program, we hope to maintain the cleanliness of the Miputak creek and show to the people that environmental concern is everyone’s responsibility,” Endab said. Community and Environment and Natural Resources Officer Jeoffrey Zayas also reiterated the DENR’s mandate “to keep the people informed and to take cognizance of the value of ecological solid waste management,” reminding those living near the creek not to throw their wastes to the creek as these would not only make the surroundings look dirty but destory the marine life as


GSIS extends deadline for submission of applications for scholarship programBy Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY - The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)-Pagadian branch has moved to June 30 the deadline for submission of applications for its scholarship program.

well. On the other hand, Dipolog City CENRO-designate Rodney Benedicto said that lots of wastes are now seen floating on some bodies of water - wastes which are made by man. “If we want our children to live in a clean environment, let us make our earth free from wastes,” Benedicto said.

In a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed last May 30 between PCAPI, DENR and the city government of Dipolog, PCAPI identified the Miputak Creek as its pilot area. The parties agreed to conduct a cleanup drive on June 5 as its kick-off activity in time of the observance of the World Environment Day.

Branch head Leoncito Manuel on Monday said the deadline, which was originally scheduled on May 26, was extended to June 30 upon the request of its members. Manuel has noticed also that there were only few member-applicants who submitted their application forms at their office. “The agency needs to meet the required

200 scholarship slots nationwide, thus the central office moved the deadline to the last day this month,” Manuel explained. For Zamboanga Peninsula, Manuel said there were 30 member-applicants who submitted their applications at their office. “From among the applicants, only seven will be chosen by the selection and


evaluation committee,” Manuel stressed. Manuel said the number of slots per region shall be proportionate to its existing membership coverage and that the slots designated for each region shall be filled up by scholars whose parents are assigned in that particular region. As part of the agency’s corporate social responsibility, Manuel said the GSIS is giving the scholarship program every year to provide educational opportunities for children of all active and regular members of GSIS who are permanent employees with at least three years and with salary grade of 24 or below at the time of application, and with premium payments for the last six months. Manuel said under the program, member-applicants should have incoming college freshmen dependents who are accepted in any 4-or-5-year college course or in priority courses identified by the

Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in a Higher Education Institution (HEI) with its own charter or a school qualified by the CHED as Levels IV and III, autonomous or deregulated. The scholar shall be entitled to the following benefits during the 4-or-5-year course duration: Actual cost of tuition and miscellaneous fees not to exceed P20,000 per term, and a monthly stipend of P2,000.00, the scholarship guidelines it said. Manuel said nominees shall be notified through phone, e-mail and or text message of the result of evaluation. The list of chosen scholars shall be posted in the GSIS website and be published in a local dailies. The GSIS chief encouraged eligible members to grab the seldom opportunity by accessing the website: www.gsis.gov.ph to download application forms and submit the same to nearest GSIS office.


Curfew for minors in effectby CdeOSP

CAGAYAN DE ORO - The Curfew Law for minors has been implemented in the city starting June 1, 2014.

This was announced by councilor Teodulfo Lao in his special report during the City Council regular session Monday, June 2, presided over by Vice Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas. According to councilor Lao, the basis of this is Chapter 108,

Section 485 of the 1994 City Codified Ordinance of 1994. He said the Cagayan de Oro Peace Development and Security Council (CPDSC) initiated the enforcement of the Curfew Law upon observing alarming incidence of child trafficking


Muslim religious leaders undergo training for post-marriage counselingby Vincent N. Labial

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte - More than 26 Muslim clerics attended the three-day training on Post Marriage Counseling (PMC) and PMC Supplemental Guide for Muslims held at MCC Hotel, Tubod, this province.

in the city. Lao said many young people are wandering in food hubs, disco clubs, and lounges and convenience stores drinking liquors, alcoholic and intoxicating beverages while others are engaged in drag racing, which disturbs the peaceful atmosphere

during night time. According to the councilor, 17 barangays are now implementing the curfew ordinance without penalty. Minors are just advised to go home and the attention of their parents are called, he said.

The workshop was organized by the provincial government through its Provincial Population Office (PPO) in cooperation with the Commission on Population, Region 10. Topics of the workshop include Planning and Building a Family in Islam, Responsible Parenthood, Planning the Family, Maternal Health in Islam, Child Birth, Sex Education in Islam, Marriage and Relationships among Muslim Filipinos, and Rights and Obligations between Spouses. “We are very grateful to Governor Khalid Dimaporo for allowing us to conduct this training for our Muslim religious leaders. They will be our vital partners in

helping create healthier families and more responsible parents here in the province,” expressed Provincial Population Officer Ananette Daniel. Attorney Mac Dibaratun was tapped by PPO as the resource speaker on the PMC Supplemental Guide for Muslims. The training is also a project of the Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System (GFPS) of Lanao del Norte implemented under the ‘Kabarangayan Sigurado’ program of Governor Dimaporo. “This is the first roll-out of this type of training here in Region 10 and most probably the entire island of Mindanao,” Daniel said.


Muslim religious leaders undergo training for post-marriage counseling

Environment body set to inspect river, creek in Bukidnonby CdeOSP

CAGAYAN DE ORO - The City Council committee on environment will lead the ocular inspection at Lapinigan Creek and the river at barangay Salimbalan of Baungon town in Bukidnon on June 13.During its recent meeting, councilor Zaldy Ocon, chair of the committee, said there is an urgent need for the committee to conduct an ocular inspection to verify reports that the nearby areas and farmlands might have not complied with provisions or requirements stated in their respective Environmental Clearance Certificates (ECC). This may have affected the quality of the drinking water in the city, he said. The councilor said he is, however, convinced of the quality of drinking water supplied by Rio Verde Water Consortium, Inc. to the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD). Engr. Joffrey E. Hapitan of Rio

Verde informed the committee that the water supplied to the COWD is guaranteed to be good quality. According to Engr. Bievenido Batar of COWD, 30% of the water supply is from the Rio Verde Water Consortium, Inc. The committee invited representatives of Rio Verde, Cagayan de Water District, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO), Mindanao University of Science and Technology (MUST), Xavier University, Archbishop Ledesma, Sulog Cagayan, Task Force Macajalar and all media outlets to join the inspection.


ARMM implements P2-B dev’t projects in conflict-stricken areasMore than P2 billion worth of development projects is

being implemented by the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to help foster peace and reduce poverty

in some of the conflict-affected communities in the region through the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (Pamana) program.

Dong Anayatin, PAMANA-ARMM program manager, said PAMANA is intended to contribute to lasting peace in the region through poverty reduction and the improvement of local governance. He said PAMANA also promotes social cohesion to capacitate residents in conflict-stricken areas. The program includes livelihood projects being provided by the region’s Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in at least 386 barangays and construction of roads and infrastructures being undertaken by ARMM’s Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The ARMM government, Anayatin said, is hoping

to increase livelihood and job opportunities in the region and intensify community participation in the pursuit of peace and development. The program was initially handled directly by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) when it was first introduced in the


ENGAGE project expands area of coverage in Lanao del Surby: Apipa P. Bagumbaran

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The Enhancing Governance, Accountability and Engagement (ENGAGE) project which started here in the city has now extended to two other municipalities in the province.

“We launched the ENGAGE project in Taraka town on May 27 and in Balindong on May 28,” said Nadia Mocsana, Municipal and Community Engage Officer (MCEO) during PIA’s Ozor ka, Ranao! radio program.

She said the primary purpose of ENGAGE project is to improve peace and stability in conflict-affected areas in Mindanao by improving service delivery of local governments and strengthening their capacity, transparency and accountability. Supported by the Unites States Agency for International Development (USAID), she said ENGAGE project also seeks to increase the involvement of

citizens in governance through civic education, civil society strengthening, and promotion of participatory mechanisms. Mocsana said one of the service

ARMM in 2011. Last year, the ARMM government officially took over the management of PAMANA projects that are being implemented in the region. “We regularly conduct focus group discussions with local leaders and the program’s steering committee to assess the needs of recipient communities,” said Anayatin.

PAMANA projects are being implemented in mostly Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) communities. “We want to address development gaps and bring progress to conflict-affected areas,” he said. (Bureau of Public Infornation)


gaps that they have identified for Taraka is youth development. “We will soon conduct youth assembly and consultation to come up with a youth development agenda which we will lobby to the town mayor for inclusion in their local development plans,” she further said. On the other hand, service delivery identified for Balindong included capability programs on livelihood and peace and order. “We will also assist them in developing a peace mechanism or an integrated community public safety plan that will serve as their guide in times of disasters like earthquake or family feuds, among others,” Mocsana added. ENGAGE project is currently

providing technical assistance to the Marawi City government for its ecological solid waste management (ESWM) program. The ESWM program was launched by the city government on April 15, this year. Mocsana said ENGAGE project is helping the Marawi City ESWM Board and TWG in creating special task forces (TF) to attain a maximum participation for the implementation of the city’s integrated ESWM program. To date, three “basura busters” TF has been organized through the assistance of ENGAGE project. These are the Padian (market) TF, Lanao del Sur Electric Cooperative (LASURECO) TF and the Mindanao State University (MSU) TF.

Search is on for USAID internship programby: Apipa P. Bagumbaran

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The recruitment for applicants to the United States Agency for International Development- Enhancing Governance, Accountability and Engagement (USAID-ENGAGE) internship program is now open.

“The search for nominees to the Leaders for Enhanced and Accelerated Development, Engagement and Responsibility (LEADER) internship program is on, thus, we are encouraging our young generation here in the province to join the program, said Aliah P. Cali-Pascan, Municipal and Community Engage Officer (MCEO) in Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Ozor ka, Ranao! radio program. LEADER aims to provide

young people from conflict-affected communities in Mindanao an opportunity to avail of internships at the executive departments of the government. “The internship will be held either at the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Finance-Bureau of Local Government Finance (DOF-BLGF) or Department of Budget and Management,” she said. Accordingly, participants will


learn first-hand how development planners formulate policies and programs on local governance, revenue administration and fund management, as well as proper and transparent utilization of local government resources during their three-month internship. L E A D E R internship program is open to recent college graduates of universities and colleges in regions 9, 12 and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) who have the potential to assume leadership positions in business and government within their respective communities. Applicants must be currently holding residency in Region 9, 12 or ARMM; not more than 29 years of age at the time of internship; and willing to share the knowledge and experience acquired during the internship to promote good governance and transparency. Upon return to his/her community, he/she should also support a more participatory and accountable process in local government planning and budgeting. Meanwhile, a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Political Science or Law from any college or university in Region 9, 12 or ARMM will be an advantage. Interested applicants must

submit a complete CV/bio-data; certified true copy of official transcript of records from the university/college attended; NBI and police clearances; at least two letters of recommendation from current or former university faculty and/or individuals who have supervised him/her in a work setting; and two essays focusing on goals and governance issues. The first essay should be in 400-500 words describing the applicant, his/her goals in life and plans on how he/she can help the community, while the second essay should be approximately in 1,000 words describing any governance-related issue in the community and how the applicant can help address the issue. The requirements must be submitted to Dr. Macabangkit P. Ati, MSU LEADER Coordinator, Institute for Local Governance, 2/F Mamitua Saber Research Center, Mindanao State University Main Campus, Marawi City. Submission of applications is from June 7 to July 18, 2014.

one mindanao - june 11, 2014

Documents

f o u n d

organic robusta coffee

project of coffee

organic agriculture

organic fairs

mindanaoan products

n i c p r o d u c t

sustainable social enterprises