During its 145th Regular Meeting, Regional Development

Council (RDC) IX endorsed the Updated Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Development Plan (RDP), 2014-2016. The meeting was held on November 19, 2013 at Hotel Alindahaw Pagadian City. The endorsement of the plan was a milestone achievement of the Council before the year ended, as it shall serve as the roadmap of development of the region for the next three years.

Prior to its endorsement to the Council, the draft RDP underwent a series of consultations with the Regional Line Agencies, Local Government Units, Non-Government Organizations and other stakeholders.

EDITORIAL BOARD

The RDC Communicator

RDC IX Acting Chairperson, Dir. Teresita Socorro C. Ramos presents the region’s updated RDP to RDC IX

RDC IX endorses Updated ZamPen RDP

The plan highlights the vision of the region to become the Southern Agri-Fisheries Corridor of the Philippines. It covers eight chapters which presents the challenges, issues, and opportunities of various development sectors. Major strategies have been identified to address the issues and concerns presently affecting the region’s development. Major programs and projects are identified to translate these strategies into concrete interventions.

Along with the presentation and endorsement of the Plan, the RDC meeting also served as venue for discussions on ASEAN Integration 2015, Mindanao Growth Corridor and Export Gateway Strategy and various concerns of the Sectoral Committees of RDC IX. The Council passed 13

resolutions on various concerns, including the endorsement of the RDP; request for President Aquino to appoint the Chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council of Zamboanga Peninsula in relation to the proposed conduct of a peace summit; conduct of a broad-based multi-sectoral forum on ASEAN Integration 2015 and a K-12 Summit in Region IX early next year.

The 145th RDC IX Meeting was the last meeting of the Council for the year. Currently, NEDA IX Regional Director, Teresita Socorro C. Ramos is acting Chairperson, while awaiting the appointment of the Council’s Chairperson and Co-Chairperson by the President. (Ardi Abril T. Layugue, NEDA 9)

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFTeresita Socorro C. Ramos

ASSOCIATE EDITORSSusan C. Valerio, OIC-ARDRenato C. Herrera, PDIPBDNorman Jose E. Ramirez, DRDManolette Jude M. Mercado, PFPDLeticia O. Lobren, PMEDRonald Von D. Rivera, FAD

PUBLICATION COORDINATORVilma M. Julian

COVERDaryll L. Cabico

CONTRIBUTORS

NEDA 9Michael Vincent DC CaboralVilma M. JulianArdi Abril T. Layugue

OTHER AGENCIESMarnet S. Daguro, DA 9Jeane Anne Dagoy, DOST 9Jacqueline Kriselle Carrasco, DOT 9DSWD-Social Marketing ServiceLowell S. Vallecer, DTI 9DAR 9DFADSWD 9WMSUhttp://news.pia.gov.phhttp://ro9.dole.gov.phhttp://r9.denr.gov.ph

The RDC Communicator is pub-lished quarterly by Regional Development Council (RDC) IX. The Editorial Board reserves the right to choose the articles to be published due to space limitation. Articles and pictures will become property of RDC IX. Comments and suggestions are welcome. Contact:

The Editorial BoardNEDA Regional Office IXProvincial Government CenterDao, Pagadian CityTel. No. (062) 945-0049nedapagadian@yahoo.com

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conducted briefings among newly elected local chief executives in the region to keep them abreast of RDC priorities, activities and updates; Regional Development Plan; Official Development Assistance; Regional Project Development Committee and other advocacies of the Council.

Pursuant to Executive Order 325, s. 1996 and the approved Guidelines on PSR Selection, the new set of PSRs were confirmed by RDC IX for the term 2013-2016. They also took their oath of office immediately after their confirmation during the August 28 reorganization meeting. (Vilma M. Julian, NEDA 9)

On October 7-11, 2013, Regional Development Council (RDC)

IX conducted its Sectoral Committee (SecCom) Meetings to select the new chairperson and co-chairperson of each of the four sectoral committees of the Council, and to discuss other concerns relative to each sector.

The selection of chairperson and co-chairperson of the SecComs observes the same policy of the RDC that if the former comes from the public sector, the latter should come from the private sector, or vice-versa.

To assist RDC IX are four major SecComs to handle development administration, economic, social, and infrastructure concerns in the region. The SecComs

NEDA IX Regional Director Teresita Socorro C. Ramos (standing) welcoming the participants during the PSR Forum

RDC conducts SecCom Meetings, PSR Forum

Participants gather during the Regional Social Development Sectoral Committee Meeting on October 8, 2013 for the selection of the committee’s new chairperson and co-chairperson

perform functions supportive of those of the Council to include review and endorsement of matters pertaining to their respective sectors to RDC IX Executive Committee or its full Council. These include sectoral development plans, programs and projects, as well as,

policies affecting regional development.

On October 4, 2013, the Council conducted the Private Sector Representatives’ (PSR) Forum in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay. After the secretariat briefed them about the RDC, and its various committees and concerns, the PSRs selected the corresponding SecCom of their interest and preference. The SecComs serve as venue for PSRs to present and discuss their sector’s concerns prior to elevating these to the Council proper for further deliberation, if necessary.

Following this year’s local elections, RDC IX was reorganized on August 28, 2013. It

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Department of Agriculture, Assistant Regional

Director, Engr. Peter M. Andalahao, turned-over the Village Type Corn Postharvest Processing Center (VTCPPC) to Dinas Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (DCMPC) on September 27, 2013. This facility is installed at Barangay Mulom, Lapuyan, Zamboanga del Sur.

During the ceremony, Engr. Andalahao said that the Food Staple Sufficiency Program is a big project to address poverty. He added that DCMPC helps make the nation food sufficient by increasing corn production and encouraged everyone to maximize the utilization of this processing center.

Meanwhile, Dinas Vice Mayor Felicito C. Chavez, expressed his appreciation on the

DA IX ARD, Engr. Peter M. Andalahao, handing the Certificate of Turn-Over of the VTCPPC to DCMPC

Dinas cooperative gets Village Type Corn Postharvest Processing Center

project as Dinas is not the only municipality that can benefit from it but also the neighboring municipalities. He encouraged all farmers to use the facility.

The VTCPPC is equipped with one unit Corn Cob Dryer (10 metric tons capacity), one unit Sheller, one unit Recirculating Batch Type Grain Dryer (6 metric tons capacity), one unit Biomass Furnace with indirect-fire and automatic temperature control for corn on cob dryer and corn grain dryer, and one unit Bagging Bin (5.6 metric tons capacity). Over all, it can process 10 metric tons of corn on cob with 14% moisture content corn kernels.

DCMPC Manager Santiago O. Arig, Jr. said that the cooperative chose to put up the project in Barangay

Mulom, Municipality of Lapuyan since the space is not enough in its Dinas property while they have one hectare of land in Molum. In this case, it can also offer services to other farmers in neighboring barangays.

Lapuyan Mayor Daylinda Sulong was very pleased with the decision of DCMPC. She said that at least now, all the produce of the farmers will not go to waste. She emphasized that they will treasure and help protect this project.

Regional Corn Report Officer, Engr. Tess F. Montano said that the proponent (LGU or people’s organization) must provide the warehouse, including the lot area while DA provides the VTCPPC.

To avail of this facility, proponents must be registered

organizations either at the Securities and Exchange Commission, Department of Labor and Employment, or Cooperative Development Authority. They must submit the following requirements to the DA: Letter of Intent; Board Resolution from Cooperative, Barangay, Municipal and Provincial Board, authorizing the cooperator to enter into contract with DA-RFU; and Certification on the availability of funds for the construction of the warehouse.

DCMPC Chairman of the Board of Directors Pedro T. Bernante said that the cooperative has assigned members who will manage the center. Prices will be P1.50 per kilo for members and P1.60 for non members.

One of DCMPC members, Jimmy Lusano, who is also a farmer expressed his gratitude to the DA and to the cooperative. “This is a big help to us farmers in saving our produce from being wasted. This will encourage us to plant more corn,” Mr. Lusano disclosed.

The DCMPC envisions to uplift the income and learning of farmers. It plans to have a learning center, mini research center for natural farming, solar dryer, and downstream industries for yellow corn. It believes these can be achieved with the help of the government. (Marnet S. Daguro, DA 9)

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The Industry Tripartite Council (ITC) in Fishing and Canning together with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in coordination with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and other government agencies spearheaded series of meetings with concerned stakeholders to assist workers in the sardines, fishing and canning industries who might be affected by the closed fishing season. The series of meetings aimed to discuss alternative employment programs and services for the affected workers during the closed fishing season.

On November 26, 2013, Chairperson Michael Kelly Lim of the ITC in Fishing and Canning, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Regional Director Lorenzo Macapili together with DOLE Regional Director Sisinio B. Cano and the secretariat had their initial discussion on the different programs and services to be implemented such as emergency employment, livelihood and skills training for the affected workers.

On December 5, 2013, the ITC together with stakeholders both from the national and local government convened and presented different alternative employment programs and services including issues and concerns on the previous implementation of the different programs during the closed fishing season in 2012. The DOLE in particular, assisted 22 workers coming from PERMEX Producer and Exporter Co., who availed of the Starter Kits amounting to P219,100.

Dir. Cano emphasized that the 3rd year implementation of the closed fishing season has already prepared the industry to address its respective concerns as DOLE the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) through the local government unit and TESDA are ready with the programs and services. The biggest challenge lies in the industry where industry players should come-up with comprehensive plans for their workers during this season for government intervention.

As of December 16, 2013, only two companies reported displacement of workers that reached 317, while other companies were still conducting their inventory of workers and will subsequently submit their reports on retrenchment.

As an offshoot of the meeting, the ITC came up with a resolution requesting the deferment of payment of premiums during closed fishing season to Social Security System (SSS), Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF), and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and deferment of payment of the salary loan amortizations with the SSS and HDMF incurred by the employees of the fishing and canning industry of Zamboanga City.

The enrolled programs of the DOLE in coordination with the PESO-LGU and TESDA for this season are the emergency employment and starter kits, Special Program for Employment of Students and the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program towards Community Enterprise Development with the total budget of P4,974,200. (Source: http://ro9.dole.gov.ph)

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) IX forged a memorandum of agreement

(MOA) with three (3) beneficiary organizations on 24 October 2013 in Jose Dalman, Zamboanga del Norte during the conduct of Information Caravan cum Medical Mission.

The MOA stipulates DTI’s commitment to provide three shared service facility (SSF) projects costing a total of P1.89 million to the following organizations in the province of Zamboanga del Norte: Doña Josefa Seaweeds Farmers Association in Sindangan; Poblacion United Seaweeds Planters Association; and Sardines Savers Association in Jose Dalman

According to Provincial Director Noel R. Bazan of DTI-Zamboanga del Norte, two of the three projects involve the construction of concrete stilt dryers and storage houses for harvested seaweeds which are expected to significantly improve the quality of dried seaweeds produced in the said areas. Each project costs P923,946.24 that will benefit 139 small seaweed farmers who are members of the said organizations.

Mr. Bazan stressed that seaweed is one of Zamboanga Peninsula’s priority industry clusters and is recognized by the Regional Development Council as a regional champion product. He said, “So many of our people are dependent on the seaweed industry for their livelihood, hence, we in the DTI together with our partner agencies in government work hand in hand for the development of this industry.”

He also mentioned that DTI is committed to provide Thermal Shrink Packaging Machine to Jose Dalman Sardines Savers Association for the improvement of the quality, productivity and efficiency in the production of bottled sardines. This machine will shorten the sealing time

ITC in fishing and canning spearheads alternative employment activities

DTI commits P1.89 million SSF projects, teams up with TESDA

of bottled sardines from days using the manual sealing method to only a few hours.

Mr. Bazan said, “The project cost for the sealing machine is only P44,800 but the impact will hasten the production process and allow the association to produce and sell more.”

Bottled sardines, is also a priority industry cluster most especially in the province of Zamboanga del Norte which is known for its bottled Spanish-style sardines.

The SSF project was initiated by Secretary Gregory Domingo of DTI that makes a lot of impact in addressing the bottlenecks in the value chain of our priority industries. Mr. Bazan disclosed that nine more SSF projects are for implementation.

Meanwhile, DTI and the Technical Education and Skill Development Authority (TESDA) collaborated in providing a skills development training to twenty women beneficiaries in Jose Dalman, Zamboanga del Norte.

The participants were trained on hair cutting techniques and in manicure and pedicure by an expert beautician-trainer provided by TESDA. DTI on the other hand provided the starter kits containing the basic tools and materials needed for the hands–on training and which the participants could use later to start a salon business.

The training was part of the services provided to the residents of Jose Dalman during the information caravan cum medical mission to the said municipality on October 24, 2013. It was specifically requested by the residents from DTI and TESDA during the needs assessment survey conducted prior to the caravan. The info caravan cum medical mission was spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency in partnership with the AFP, PNP and various line agencies of government in Region 9 who are members of the Regional Communication and Advocacy Plan Technical Working Group. (Lowell S. Vallecer, DTI 9)

MOA signing between the DTI Zambo. del Norte Provincial Direc-tor Noel R. Bazan and Mr. Concepto Q. Dalman, Jr., President of Jose Dalman Poblacion United Seaweed Planters Association in the presence of Jose Dalman Mayor Rachel D. Ferrater (seated)

In pursuit of its mandate, a composite team of the Regional Project

Monitoring Committee (RPMC)-Technical Working Group of Zamboanga Peninsula conducted field visits to 14 programs and projects implemented in Zamboanga Sibugay Province on December 4-6, 2013.

These projects were identified during a pre-conference held on November 28, 2013 at the Ricomar Pension Haus, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay among representatives of NIA IX, DPWH IX, DA IX, DILG IX and the RPMC IX-TWG. Only programs and projects (PPs) from implementing agencies (IAs) in attendance were considered, with focus on those PPs deemed to have implementation issues. The body identified 12 PPs for monitoring and 2 PPs for follow-through, all out of 18 PPs originally proposed. The itinerary of the activity was also discussed where accessibility of the projects was taken into account.

The team was composed of personnel from NEDA IX, DPWH IX, DA IX and NIA IX. Representatives from the different contractors of the project and concerned LGUs were present during field visits.

Pre-or post-consultations were made during these calls. Generally, the team briefed the LCEs on RPMC’s mandate to monitor and help facilitate completion of projects in their area. The LCEs, on the other hand, provided information on the efforts of their respective LGUs in the implementation of the projects as well as other implementation issues of programs and projects within their locality.

Restoration of Sanito bridgeRoad Upgrading of Crossing Sta. Clara-Sandayong Road

RPMC IX conducts monitoring activities

Construction of Guilinan Bridge

The intermittent rise in the water level of rivers in Zamboanga Sibugay hampered the smooth implementation of several bridge projects visited. Nevertheless, on the time of visit, the Sanito Bridge was already 97 % completed, Guilinan bridge in Tungawan and the three bridges along the Sta. Clara Sandayong Road Stretch were being fast tracked, taking advantage of good weather conditions. Upgrading of two road sections along the Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay to Tampilisan, Zamboanga del Norte Secondary National Road initially faced RROW issues, but were already on track during time of visit.

Road Upgrading of Crossing Sta. Clara-Sandayong Road Section 2

RPMC - IX TWG pre-monitoring meeting in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, where projects to be monitored were identified

Retrofitting of existing permanent bridge, Lower Sulitan bridge along crossing Sta. Clara-Sandayang Road section

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Buug SIP Access Road

Baluran-Tupilac SIP

Problem-solving sessions were conducted for two NIA Projects- the Small Irrigation Project (SIP) Access Road in Buug and the Baluran-Tupilac SIP in Tungawan. The issues that caused stoppage or suspension of work were threshed out with the contractors and beneficiaries during the sessions and the team was able to get official commitments from the contractors to finish the project. In a follow-through consultation with NIA, the projects were already on track.

The two Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) projects under the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) in Tungawan and Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay were on track for punchlisting, the final activity before final payment is released. Meanwhile, the 5.42 - km FMR in Titay was undergoing Remove and Replace (R&R) works due to failure of contractor to comply with specification. On the time of the visit, accomplishment was estimated at 60 % where work continues until night time. FOLLOW-THROUGH PROJECTS

The team also monitored recent actions taken by concerned parties on two NIA projects faced with problems in implementation. The reconstruction of the Siphon Crossing Project in Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur met numerous delays mainly due to the recurring rise in the water level of Sibuguey River; while the lower Labrador Irrigation Project faced problems of siltation due to a DA IX MRDP FMR beside it. Follow through consultations were undertaken where a consensus on the next steps by concerned parties was reached. The Siphon project will be completed before the next cropping season in May 2014, while on the siltation problem of the CIP in Lower Labrador, a permanent collective drain will be constructed with funding support by DA IX.

Problem-solving sessions were conducted for 2 NIA Projects- the Small Irrigation Project (SIP) Access Road in Buug and the Baluran-Tupilac

SIP in Tungawan. The issues that caused stoppage or suspension of work were thrashed out with the contractors and beneficiaries during the sessions and the team was bale to get official commitments from the contractors to finish the project. In a follow-up consultation with NIA, the projects were already on track.

Rehab of 5.42 km Labasan-Bagong Silang FMR

Rehab of 5.42 km Labasan-Bagong Silang FMR

Rehab / Improvement of 5.98 km Baluran FMR

Western Mindanao State University’s Fiberboard Utility Model, which

was recently granted with an exclusive property right by the Intellectual Property Rights Philippines-Bureau of Patents, won the best poster presentation during the Forests and Natural Resources Research Society of the Philippines, Inc.’s (FORESPI) 10th Annual Symposium.

Mrs. Hideliza B. Rabajante-Saipudin, proponent of the “Medium Density Chicken Feather Fiberboard Overlaid with Mangium Veneers” received the award on October 23, 2013 at the University of the Philippines-Los Baños. The technology she created granted WMSU the exclusive right to manufacture, use, sell or import the utility model within a period of seven years throughout the Philippines. It was also given the Best Paper Award for Research Category and First Place for Poster Category during the Symposium of Research and Development Highlights conducted by the Western Mindanao Agricultural and Aquatic Research and Resource Center on August 22.

Unlike commercial Medium Density Fiberboards (MDF) that are created from wood, Saipudin’s Medium Density Chicken Feather Fiberboard uses chicken feather fibers for the manufacture of MDF—a non-conventional way of turning

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) IX declared the winners for the 2013 Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits during the closing ceremonies held on December 1, 2013.

The entry title “Absorption Potential of Lead Simulated Wastewater Using Tamban (Sardinella longiceps) Fish Scales” of Grant Wynn B. Arnuco, Richard Gabriel F. Burigsay and Crystal Gayle B. Ibañez with adviser Robinson S. Luzon from Arturo Eustaquio Memorial Science High School, Zamboanga City (ZC) won first place in the Sibol Category for high school.

The team from Regional Science High School, ZC composed of Ralph Matthew Relampagos, Jainor Timothy Garcia and Jude Cumayao with adviser Noreen Catis landed second with their study on “Improvised Friction-Powered Universal Charger for Cellphone Batteries.”

Zamboanga del Norte (ZDN) National High School’s Jessa Abellon, Joshua Gemperoso and Kate Ramos with adviser Noel Solis secured third place in the same category on “Quality Plywood from Nipa Stalk.”

Meanwhile, Noel Beira of ZDN emerged as winner for the Utility model category with his invention of “Palwood” and also for the Likha category for his “Palwood Poles.”

The “Chicken Feeder Gadget” developed by Emma Diamante, ZDN ranked second in the Likha award. The Nutri-Booster Banana Enriched of Concordio Bolusan, Zamboanga del Sur bagged the third place.

The board of judges was composed of Mr. Alvin Ang, Engr. Rolando Andaya and Mr. Ramon L. Rivera. Winners received cash and certificates. Top researchers and inventors will advance in the 2014 National Invention Contest and Exhibits which will be held in Manila.

This year’s contest gathered 76 researches and inventions from state universities and colleges, science high schools, public and private institutions all over the region. (Jeane Anne Dagoy, http://www.region9.dost.gov.ph)

DOST awards inventors, researchers

chicken feather wastes into something functional and productive. This also contributes to the preservation of natural resources like wood since it can be used as substitute in furniture applications, interior furnishings, paneling, insulation, ceilings and other products that require wood.

FORESPI, which granted the award to Ms. Saipudin, is a professional organization of researchers in forestry and other related fields in the academe, industry, research and government. The annual symposium and general assembly meeting are its major activities. The event encourages active participation of the members in research and development of forest and natural resources including policy formulation and advocacy. It provides opportunity for the update of current researches in forestry and related fields as well as in national issues that impact forestry and natural resources.

Ms. Saipudin, a faculty member of the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies-WMSU for 26 years is a graduate of BS Forest Products Engineering from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, finishing her Master of Science in Forestry, Major in Wood and Science Technology at the same university in 2009. (WMSU Press Release)

Arturo Eustacio Memorial Science High School students with their certificate of recognition and P20,000 cash for winning 1st place in the Sibol Category for high school

Regional Science High School, second place in Sibol Category with the award and P10,000 cash prize

Zamboanga del Norte National High School, third place in Sibol Category with the award and P5,000 cash prize

WMSU’s patented Chicken Feather Fiberboard gets awards

Mrs. Hideliza Saipudin (center) holding the award for Best Poster Presentation from FORESPI representatives

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Mrs. Saipudin with the poster of the Chicken Feather Fiber-board presented during the FORESPI symposium

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Zambo Mayor lauds city’s medalists in Southeast

Asian Games

Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar commended five Zamboangueño athletes for giving the city an honor in the field of international sports after they reaped medals from the 27th Southeast Asian Games held on December 11-22, 2013 in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar.

The athletes are Hidilyn Diaz and Margarito Angana Jr., both silver medalists in Women’s Wresting and Wrestling Greco Roman Men’s 55 kg., respectively; Joseph Angana, bronze medalist in Wresting Freestyle Category Men’s 66 kg., Jhonny Morte, bronze medalist in Wrestling Freestyle Category Men’s 60 kg., and Iris Rañola, bronze medalist in Women’s 10-Ball Pool Single.

Sports Officer Bernardito Patiño presented the athletes to Mayor Climaco during one of the flag raising ceremonies at the City Hall grounds. He said that the athletes are entitled to cash incentives from the city government pursuant to an ordinance granting monetary benefits to local athletes who can reap medals from local, national and international sports competitions.

The grant of cash incentives is part of the city government’s sports development program aimed at attracting the youths to play and excel in sports of their choice, thereby keeping them away from unproductive, let alone criminal activities.

Under the cash incentive ordinance, the city government will give P100 thousand and P75 thousand for silver medal and bronze medal, respectively, from the international sports competition such as the recently concluded Southeast Asian Games. (FPG/Vic Larato-CIO / JPA- PIA/ Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph)

Going home! About 30 residents of Barangay Mampang wave goodbye to other evacuees on their way home. They have been staying at the JFE Sports Complex since the armed conflict in Zamboanga started on Sept. 9.

After the military declared some areas to be safe, a number of evacuees from the armed conflict between government

troops and Moro National Liberation Front-Misuari faction in Zamboanga City have returned home. To ensure that they would meet their daily food needs while starting anew, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided them with ‘pabaon’ packs. The “pabaon” packs were released to 930 families who have returned to their respective communities in Mampang, Talon-Talon, and Arena Blanco. Each ‘pabaon’ pack contains 9 kilos of rice, 15 cans of sardines, 10 cans of corned beef, 20 pieces of noodles and 20 pieces of 3-in-1 coffee. Each pack is valued at P 933.00 and is estimated to be good for one week. The access cards of the returning evacuees are surrendered to the DSWD as soon as they receive their ‘pabaon.’

As of October 17, 2013, 8,341 families or 40,511 persons are still housed in 27 evacuation centers around the city. Family packs are given to families in evacuation centers every two days.

Meanwhile, to ensure that children are protected from all forms of abuse, DSWD convened several child-focused non-government organizations (NGOs) to discuss issues and plan out for the continued interventions for affected children who are temporarily housed in various evacuation centers in Zamboanga City.

DSWD 9 Regional Director Zenaida Arevalo, who presided over the meeting held at the DSWD office, said that there are about 36,000 children, ages 3-17 who were affected by the armed-conflict. These children are most vulnerable, and she raised the need to ensure their protection. She emphasized that the zonal assignments of evacuees at the Joaquin F. Enriquez Sports Complex were established to accurately monitor the situation not only of the children but that of other vulnerable groups like the

older persons and pregnant women, among others.

The NGOs that participated in the meeting were the Save the Children, Community and Family Services Int’l., World Vision, Child Abuse Prevention and Intervention Network, Western Mindanao State University. Also present during the meeting was a group of Philippine National Police personnel who, in plain clothes and without identifying themselves as police officers, conduct regular stress debriefing sessions to children at JFE Sports complex.

Interventions offered by these NGOs to evacuation centers include psychosocial services, advocacies on child-related laws and policies, and child-protection mechanisms and referrals. To ensure that the programs for children are provided and to prevent duplication of services, the cluster agreed for each member organization to adopt and serve a number of evacuation centers for their corresponding services.

Four NGOs gave their commitments to continually provide their services. The Save the Children Foundation committed to handle the evacuation centers of Divisoria National High School and the elementary schools of Boalan, Zambowood, and Talon-Talon. Western Mindanao State University with its allied offices of College of Social Work and Community Development and Extension Services Office committed to handle the Baliwasan Central school. CSFI commited to continue its services to the evacuees at JFE Sports Complex while CAPIN, in partnership with Save the Children, shall ensure its services to Tetuan, Talon-Talon, Divisoria and Zambowood Elementary Schools. “We cannot eliminate abuses in camps but we try to minimize it,” said Dr. Marcy Carpiso of WMSU who is a strong advocate of children’s rights and a constant partner of DSWD in child-related activities. (DSWD-Social Marketing Service and DSWD 9)

DSWD gives ‘pabaon’ packs to evacuees, strengthens child protection

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The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Bayog Local Government Unit (LGU) and the

Department of Public Works Highways (DPWH) along with guests conducted ground-breaking, blessing, ribbon–cutting and laying of capsule for the construction of the P8.7 million 1.7 km.–Farm to Market Road FMR) and the turn–over of the P3.2 million Potable Water System (PWS) Level II in Damit, Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur (ZDS).

DAR 9 Regional Director Julita Ragandang disclosed that Bayog, ZDS is the only recipient of the AR Infrastructure Support Project Phase III (ARISP3) throughout the region. Forty percent of the project cost is shouldered by ARISP III financed by the Japan Bank of International Cooperation while 60 percent is from the LGU.

DAR ZDS Provincial AR Program Officer (PARPO) II Arturo Soria acknowledged the efforts of ZDS Governor Antonio Cerilles, District I Congresswoman Aurora Cerilles, and DPWH-the implementing agency, for the realization of these ARISP III endeavors in Bayog. He challenged those concerned to make the FMR feasible and to complete its construction as scheduled.

DAR-ZDS Beneficiaries Development and Coordination Division Chief Engr. Josephine Sisican said that the Damit FMR will benefit

DAR 9 Director Julita Ragandang,, DAR – ZDS PARPO II Arturo Soria and Bayog Mayor Leonardo Babasa, Jr during the unveiling of the Farm to Market Road Project

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Jesus I. Yabes called on

the global community to adopt a human rights-based approach to the problem of trafficking in persons, one which would not criminalize the acts of trafficked persons but recognize their situation as victims. He also called for more international cooperation in assisting migrants in crisis situations, after the Philippine experience in repatriating citizens situated in places around the world affected by conflict and natural disasters.

USec. Yabes conveyed his remarks as a panelist at a roundtable discussion on the protection of human rights of migrants, which was convened on October 3, 2013 as part of the ongoing activities at the United Nations (UN) High Level Dialogue on Migration and Development being held at UN Headquarters in New York.

He explained that the Philippine Government seriously strives to address the issue of trafficking in persons, due to its belief in respecting the inherent rights and dignity of all human beings. To this end, the Philippines signed and ratified the UN Trafficking in Persons Protocol. To implement this, the Philippines enacted an anti-trafficking law that advocates a human rights-based, and victim welfare centered approach to trafficking in persons.

In addressing the needs of migrants in crisis situations, the Undersecretary stressed that “Certain challenges still need to be overcome in crisis situations, which pertain to the ease of movement of migrant Filipinos, issues with employers/companies, and the strict exit requirements from the host country, among others. Clearly, we cannot face these challenges alone. The Philippines needs the cooperation and assistance of local authorities, other governments, international organizations and the Filipino community overseas.”

The Philippines was invited to serve as a panelist at the roundtable discussion by co-chairs United States and Mexico due to our country’s acknowledged standing before the international community as a leader in the advocacy for migrant workers’ rights and its strong efforts to assist its millions of citizens living and working overseas. (DFA Media Releases)

Philippines calls for human rights-based approach to human

trafficking

some 224 farmers in San 3-Ds AR Community and 1,850 local populace and the nearby areas.

ARISP III DAR–ZDS Engr. Nestor Ermac revealed that the 39 PWS tap-stands have a reservoir with a capacity of 20 cubic meter benefitting 225 families in the locality.

Meanwhile, Bayog Mayor Leonardo Babasa, Jr., was grateful of this development hoping that this will minimize water borne diseases in the area. He exhorted the recipients to take care of the tap-stands by keeping their surroundings clean to sustain the safety of the potable water for the next generation/s to also benefit from this project.

Mr. Soria stressed that the FMR, when completed, will enhance agriculture in the area, ease and lessen the transport time of the farmers’ produce, preserve the freshness of their goods, and contribute to their healthy well being. (DAR 9)

DAR-LGU-DPWH ground-break road con-struction, turn over water system

Dir. Ragandang, PARPO II Soria Mayor Babasa, during the Ribbon – Cutting Ceremony of the Water System Project

RDC Communicator 11

Over 58 participants composed of barangay chairpersons, chief tanods,

tribal chieftains, former sympathizers/supporters of local communist movement, religious and other local leaders attended a two-day Bayanihan Seminar on October 17-18, 2013 at the Old Gymnasium, Barangay Poblacion, Lapuyan, Zamboanga del Sur. This brought to a total of 264 persons who attended the environmental awareness campaign in three seminars organized by the Philippine Army (PA).

One of the highlights was an information, education and communication (IEC) campaign conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Climate Change: Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies, National Greening Program, Ecological Solid Waste Management Program, and other DENR priority programs, projects and activities.

The participants were also oriented on the importance of the Geo-Hazard Map distributed to the local government units nationwide by DENR through the Mines and Geo-sciences Bureau. The

Bravo Company Commanding Officer 1 Lt. Leonil Alexis E. Tan delivering the opening message

DOT conducts Tourism Statistics Training and

Tourism Summit

Department of Tourism (DOT) 9 conducted the Basic Tourism Statistics Training last October

21-23, 2013 at Hotel Guillermo, Pagadian City. The training was intended to capacitate accommodation establishments and local government units (LGU) in tourism data gathering which is essential for in-house marketing and local government’s planning for tourism development.

The first part of the training was designed for accommodation establishments of Zamboanga del Sur where 39 owners and managers attended while the second part of the training was for LGUs’ tourism offices where 11 Tourism Officers and staff participated.

Ms. Milagros Say, Officer-in-charge of Tourism Planning, Research and Information Management, and Mr. Ramil Basuel, Tourism Operations Officer, were the speakers of both trainings.

Statistics is used for designing marketing strategies, strengthening inter-institutional relations, evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of management decisions and measuring tourism throughout the national economy.

DOT is tasked to gather statistical data from LGUs which are collected from tourism establishments in the region. The new system adopted by DOT supports the confidentiality of each establishment’s data, protecting them from the use of data other than for statistical purposes. The training taught tourism officers and accommodation establishments’ owners how to standardize their collection of data sources. An automated system of data recording was also introduced to them.

DOT 9’s tourism statistics trainings for other provinces and cities in Region 9 seek to improve the submission of tourism statistics and data.

Meanwhile, DOT 9 conducted the 1st Regional Tourism Summit last December 10, 2013 at Garden Orchid Hotel, Zamboanga City. The event convened 127 local executives, officials from different government agencies, and private sector tourism stakeholders who discussed regional tourism development.

During the summit, Zamboanga City Councilor Vincent Paul Elago, Chairman of the Committee on Tourism, welcomed the participants. DOT Assistant Secretary, Arturo P. Boncato, Jr., gave a message on tourism industry of Region 9 to the

participants. DOT9 Regional Director, Mary June G. Bugante, gave the opening remarks and presented the rationale of the tourism summit, as well as the Regional Tourism Industry Updates.

Ms. Ma. Elenita Pajarillo, of DOT, discussed the Tourism Trends and National Tourism Policy – National Tourism Development Plan. Mr. Carlos Libosada, Director of the Division on Tourism Research and Extension Services of the University of the Philippines, discussed the Thematic Areas for Tourism Development. Ms. Eileen San Juan, Vice President for Mindanao-Tourism Congress of the Philippines, tackled the Tourism Stakeholders’ Engagements - Private Sector Participation: Cagayan de Oro Experience. Ms. Dianne Jean Cruz, Communications Director of the Universidad de Zamboanga, talked about Strengthening Collaborations for Regional Tourism Development. Mr.

Pedro Rufo Soliven, President of the Zamboanga City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation Incorporated, gave the closing remarks. The Jambangan Dance Troupe of the Western Mindanao State University entertained the guests throughout the whole-day activity.

The tourism industry in the Philippines today is experiencing a dynamic growth with its volume of arrivals increasing annually. Considering its potential to generate employment and alleviate poverty, there is a need to collaborate DOT’s efforts with other tourism related offices in positioning and promoting the region as a must experience and more fun destination. Through this summit, it is expected that the tourism stakeholders in Region 9 will work together with DOT9 for the progress and development of tourism industry. (Jacqueline Kriselle Carrasco, DOT 9)

PA teams up with DENR 9 to achieve peace and development

maps can be used to determine the level of vulnerability to natural disasters and help disaster management teams and local chief executives to identify areas in their localities facing risk from storm surges, floods, landslides, ground shakings, earthquakes, tsunami or liquefaction. Said maps not only serve as a tool for disaster preparedness but also in the reclassification of areas for development. The DENR speaker also lectured on the 12 Ways on How to Help Our Country.

The environmental awareness campaign ended with the distribution of reading materials to barangay chairpersons related to the topics that were discussed to them.

The Bayanihan Seminar was organized and facilitated by the Bravo (Boulder) Company under its Commanding Officer 1 Lt. Leonil Alexis E. Tan, 53rd Infantry (Matapat) Battalion, 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, PA. The purpose was to equip the participants with the right information regarding issues that are essential in their governance that directly and indirectly affect their community. (Source: http://r9.denr.gov.ph)

Resolutions Passed During the 145th Regular Meeting of RDC IXHotel Alindahaw, Pagadian CityNovember 19, 2013

RDC IX Resolutions Passed

Resolution Number Resolution Title

IX-074-13 A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE AGENDA OF THE 145th REGULAR MEETING OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (RDC) IX

IX-075-13 A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 144th REGULAR MEETING OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (RDC) IX

IX-076-13 A RESOLUTION REQUESTING HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT BENIGNO S. AQUINO III TO APPOINT THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE REGIONAL PEACE AND ORDER COUNCIL (RPOC) OF ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA

IX-077-13 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE PHILIPPINE INFORMATION AGENCY, NATIONAL YOUTH COMMISSION, ZAMBOANGA ECONOMIC ZONE AND FREEPORT AUTHORITY, AND 1ST INFANTRY (TABAK) DIVISION AS SPECIAL NON-VOTING MEMBERS OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL IX FOR 2013-2016

IX-078-13 A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CONDUCT OF A BROAD-BASED MULTI-SECTORAL FORUM ON ASEAN INTEGRATION 2015

IX-079-13 A RESOLUTION ENDORSING THE ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN, 2014-2016

IX-080-13 A RESOLUTION ENDORSING TO THE BUREAU OF JAIL MANAGEMENT AND PENOLOGY (BJMP) CENTRAL OFFICE THE PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS OF BJMP IX FOR FY 2014

IX-081-13 A RESOLUTION ENJOINING THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS OF REGION IX TO ADOPT THE INTEGRATED FOOD SECURITY PHASE CLASSIFICATION AND REQUESTING THE NATIONAL NUTRITION COUNCIL IX TO LEAD ITS IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATIONALIZATION

IX-082-13 A RESOLUTION ENJOINING ALL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS, AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO EXTEND ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT TO THE VICTIMS OF TYPHOON YOLANDA

IX-083-13 A RESOLUTION ENJOINING ALL NATIONAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS AND CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS, HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS AND SUCs TO SUPPORT THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION IN THE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF K TO 12 EBEC/PROGRAM AND APPROVING THE CONDUCT OF A K TO 12 SUMMIT IN REGION IX

IX-084-13 A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE PHILIPPINE RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (PRDP) PROJECTS OF ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, WITH PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS CONFORMING TO STANDARDS FOR NATIONAL ROADS

IX-085-13 A RESOLUTION ENDORSING RDC-PSR MR. JOSE SUAN AND NGO REPRESENTATIVES ENGR. RUFO GUMILAO AND MR. ANDREW MORALLO FOR APPOINTMENT AS PRIVATE SECTOR REPRESENTATIVES TO THE REGIONAL PROJECT MONITORING COMMITTEE

IX-086-13 A RESOLUTION FORGOING THE CONDUCT OF THE PROPOSED TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITY FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL IX MEMBERS