One Mindanao - August 24, 2012

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESEDITORIAL BOARDExecutive Editor …….. EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI

Managing Editor …….. ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao

Associate Editors …… NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX

OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Officer-in-charge, PIA Caraga Region

ELAINE O. RATUNIL Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X

Regional Desk Editors Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Copy Editor ............... Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Layout Artists ……… Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Zener R. Dumaguing, PIA Region X

Senior Layout Artists : Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region Editorial Adviser :

SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038Cellphone no. 0908-8843404E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]: www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA WesMin Info Bliz

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

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

Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN) Provincial Capitol Compound Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St.Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506Telephone no. (083) 520-0249Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phBlogspot: www.piacaraga.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur

Cover Story

IPOPHL orients R12 SMEs, exporters on Madrid Protocol

Pops Gumana-FruylanCentral Mindanao

Today’s issue... Friday, August 24, 2012 Vol. 2 No. 7

page 4

Aquino declares 4th Monday of September of every year as ‘Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga’ Day 7

Pat D. Nano, Northern MindanaoWorld Vision program gains support of Misamis Occidental

1916

RG Alama, Southern Mindanao

JCI launches artificial reef project in IGACOS

Tacurongnons mourn the death of their 2012 Talakudong Festival guest of honor22Aida Agad, Central Mindanao

9 Make Barangay execs wage earners – CHIZ

Lovely A. Rosario and Vincent N. Labial, Northern Mindanao

Lanao Norte Muslim residents receive rice packs

DOST announces scholarships for incoming freshmen24 Dani Doguiles, Central Mindanao

15

Agusan Sur Gov. turns over 3 projects in Barangay Zilovia, Talacogon28Alexis Cabardo, Caraga Region

6 11

13 17

21

26

32

37

DILG 13 Mourns For the Loss of DILG Sec. Robredo 29 Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa, Caraga Region

Dipolog hosts first IPP info drive 34 Franklin P. Gumapon, Western Mindanao

Reintegration Program: a new hope for Filipino deportees 35 Dominic I. Sanchez, Western Mindanao

4 ONE MINDANAO Friday, August 24, 2012

IPOPHL orients R12 SMEs, exporters on Madrid Protocol

Atty. Leny Raz, Bureau of Trade Mark (TM) Director of IPOPHL described Madrid Protocol as “a treaty that provides for the international registration of trademarks including service marks.” “By filing a single application called‘international application’ in one language, you obtain a single registration called ‘international registration’ which secures protection for your mark in several countries,” she explained. Through the Madrid Protocol, Raz said TM holders can secure protection in multiple countries without hiring foreign lawyers and without leaving the Philippines.“TM holders can now protect their marks abroad ina lesscostlyandmoreefficient

manner through a single application filedwiththeTradeMarkOfficeofIPOPHL,”sheadded. IPOPHL, an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), “is responsible for handling the registration and conflict resolution of intellectualproperty rights (IPR).” “A lot of people are not aware of the value of intellectual property. Part of our information campaign is to educate our kababayans in Gensan and the neighboring provinces on how individuals and businesses herecanbenefitintheIPsystemtopromotetheir interests,” said IPOPHL Deputy Director General, Atty. Allan Gepty. Another resource person, Atty. Jesus Antonio Ross talked about the Role of IP

The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines

(IPOPHL) conducted here Thursday an advocacy training to orient small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs), exporters, and trademark holders in Region 12 on the significance of Madrid Protocol.

By Pops Gumana-Fruylan

Friday, August 24, 2012ONE MINDANAO 5

Lawyers/Practitioners in the Madrid System, as well as the in-bound and out-bound procedures of the said Protocol. Ross disclosed that since the Philippines accession to the Madrid Protocol, IPOPHL received 12 international applications for trademark protection which include ten applicants from Cebu City and two applicants from Manila. “IPOPHL is hopeful that they could get more international applications from Region 12 especially that we have a lot of companies here who are already doing businesses abroad,” said DTI-Gensan caretaker, Engr. Arnel Sayco. Sayco revealed that more local businesses are starting to appreciate the value of IPR after the creation last year of the General Santos City Intellectual Property Association (GINPAS), a group that advocates intellectual property rights in the city. IPOPHL Director General Ricardo Blancaflor,earlierexpressedoptimismthatwith GINPAS around more people will move for the registration of their intellectual

creations that could benefitthe local

government through “more taxes and more economic growth.”Moreover, Sayco disclosed that the Intellectual Property Satellite Office(IPSO) of Region 12 has assisted a total of 52 IP applications from January to July of this year which include 49 applications for trademark and two applications for copyright.

“For interested local applicants they can visit IPSO-12 at the ground floor of our DTI-GensanOffice and coordinatewith Engr. Jessel Original-

Cofleros, our IPOperations Specialist formore details on the process,” Sayco said. Meanwhile, Precious Mendoza-Valdez, chef/proprietress of Gensan Sushimoto, expressed her appreciation to IPOPHL’s efforts of “supporting small entrepreneurs to be recognized in the business world.” Mendoza-Valdez revealed her plan to apply for a trade mark to give her product an “identity and distinction” in the market as well as protection against infringement. “When my product has the trade mark, I can also use that for future endeavor such as franchising,” she explained.

6 Friday, August 24, 2012

ACROSS THE NATIONAquino signs into law Data Privacy Act of 2012

President Benigno S. Aquino III signed into law

on Aug. 15 Republic Act 10173 or the “Data Privacy Act of 2012” aimed at protecting the private communications of individuals as well as the government and private sector communication systems.

The new law, which mandates the creation of the National Privacy Commission, will cover the processing of all types of personal information including personal information controllers and processors not established in the Philippines. The law also protects journalists, publishers and

their sources.The National Privacy Commission,

which will implement the law, is mandated to receive complaints, issue cease and desist orders, compel entities to abide by its orders and monitor compliance.

The commission is also mandated coordinate with other government

Friday, August 24, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 7 Friday, August 24, 2012 7

ACROSS THE NATION

Aquino declares 4th Monday of September of every year as ‘Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga’ Day

President Benigno S. Aquino III

has declared the fourth Monday of September of every year as “Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga” Day in conjunction with the annual celebration of the Family Week.

agencies and the private sector to implement plans.

The commission will be composed of a Privacy Commissioner, Deputy Commissioners and establish a secretariat.

The majority of secretariat members musthaveservedforatleastfiveyearsin government agencies processing information such as the Social Security System, Government Service Insurance System, Land Transportation Office,

Bureau of Internal Revenue, Philippine Health Insurance Corp., Commission on Elections, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Justice and Philippine Postal Corp.

The law will take effect 15 days after its publication in at least two major newspapers of general circulation. The Data Privacy Act of 2012 is a consolidation of the Senate Bill 2965 and House Bill 4115. (as)


In Proclamation No. 326 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 26,, the President issued the declaration “to highlight and celebrate the value of families sharing meals together as a national tradition that should be observed annually and sustained by all Filipino families.”

Proclamation No. 1895 (s. 2009) declared the 4th Monday of September of 2009 as the “Salu-Salo ng Pamilya Mahalaga” Day.

In issuing Proclamation No. 326, the President underscored the need to amend Proclamation No. 1895 and rename the event as “Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga” Day to distinguish the latter as a regular annual event.

“One of the meaningful traditions of Filipinos is the common family meal where all members of the family are present to signify their unity and thanksgiving for God’s abundant blessings,” President Aquino said.

“Having a common family meal encourages parents to stay connected with their children and understand the challenges they face,” he noted.

The Chief Executive directed the National Committee on the Filipino Family (NCFF) to lead the national observance of Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day.

He, likewise, enjoined the heads of all departments, agencies, government-owned

and controlled corporations (GOCCs), local government units (LGUs), and other government instrumentalities to support NCFF in its activities related to the event.

President Aquino also encouraged all national and local publications, television and radio stations to help generate awareness and public support for activities in promoting the observance of Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day, in conjunction with the annual celebration of the Family Week.

Proclamation No. 60 (s. 1992) also declared the fourth (4th) week of September as “Family Week” to focus on the importance of strengthening and promoting unity, solidarity and stability of the Filipino Family as the basic unit of society.(js)

Friday, August 24, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 9 Friday, August 24, 2012 9

Make Barangay execs wage earners – CHIZ

Senator Chiz Escudero wants officials of the country’s 42,000 barangays to be given monthly salaries instead of just honoraria and allowances.

“Dapat naman siguro may sweldo na sila at hindi honorarium lamang. Mas araw-araw ang trabaho nila kaysa sa aming mga senador na four times a week lamang at may pension

pa kami pero sa mga nasa barangay ay wala at honorarium lamang,” the senator said.

Escudero has proposed Senate Bill 2868, which would increase the


benefits of barangay officials andprovide the prevailing minimum wage in the region per month for Sangguniang Barangay members, barangay treasurer, and barangay secretary.

The proposed bill also provides a minimum wage rate plus 20 percent for the barangay captain.

The bill seeks to amend the Local Government Code of 1991, which stipulates that a barangay captain gets a minimum of a P1,000-honorarium per month while other elected barangay officialsgetP600permonth.“Our proposal is to significantly

increase the monetary compensation beingreceivedbybarangayofficials.It would be the minimum wage rate in the region. If the barangay is rich, they can give more. This is in recognition of the fact that life is difficult nowadays. They are onlyreceiving allowances and honoraria. The problem with allowances and honoraria is we can’t use that as basis forpensionsand retirementbenefitsofbarangayofficials,”Escuderosaid.

He noted that there are some barangayofficialswhoserveforthreeterms and sometimes for about 15 to 20 years.

“May tanod na 10 years, day care worker na 15 years nang nagsisilbi. But after they serve the barangay, they receive nothing. It’s simply because they receive allowances and honoraria. If you convert it to salary, at least there is a basis to compute their pension, their retirement benefits,”Escudero said.

While there is a proposal to postpone the coming barangay elections next year, the senator said it is time the government to review the use of barangay funds and come up with a comprehensive law on the election ofbarangayofficialsand thebudgetallotted to barangays.

Barangay elections are scheduled onthefirstMondayofOctober2013,fivemonths after theMaymid-termelections. There is a proposal at the House of Representatives, however, to move the barangay election on October 2015.

Friday, August 24, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 11

DENR completes delineation of PHL’s forest line boundaries

The Department of Environment

and Natural Resources (DENR) said on Thursday it has completed the delineation of the country’s forest line boundaries, which will help Congress draft a legislation that would identify public lands.

In a statement, DENR Secretary Ramon Paje said that the agency has outlined a total of 79,245 kilometers of forest line boundaries nationwide as part of the legislative agenda of President Benigno S. Aquino III.

“We are now a step closer to fulfilling the DENR’s constitutional mandate to identify the country’s forest limits,” said Paje.

The DENR chief noted that the delineation of the specific forest

limits of the public domain is one of the 13 priority bills endorsed by President Aquino to the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).

He said that the survey results are now being assessed and validated by the National Assessment and Delineation Committee (NADC) on a per province basis for final approval and endorsement to the House of Representatives.

Under DENR Administrative Order


No. 2000-24, which established the guidelines for the implementation of the forest boundary delineation project, DENR is mandated to mark on the ground the boundaries between forestland and alienable and disposable lands nationwide in consonance with the constitutional mandate “for Congress to determine by law the specific limits of the public domain” (Section 4, Article XII, 1987 Philippine Constitution).

“On top of placing minor markers between major monuments that define existing forest boundaries, the job also requires on-the-ground assessment of actual condition of areas adjoining these boundaries to enable ground surveyors do the needed adjustments,” Paje said.

He explained that land conditions and their uses change over time and the adjustments to be made cover areas along identified boundaries that have been developed into settlement areas or other uses other than for forestry purposes.

In delineating the forest lines, land classification (LC) maps were used as reference to determine the location of the survey lines.

All the data gathered are integrated and deliberated by the Regional Assessment and Delineation Committee (RADC) of the DENR, which in turn, shall prepare a draft bill for submission to the NADC.

Once approved, the draft bill shall be endorsed by the DENR secretary to the concerned members of the House of Representatives for

sponsorship and deliberation by Congress and eventual passage into law.

As of today, 38 draft bills have already been submitted to Paje for approval and endorsement to Congress.

But Paje clarified that the completed forest lines do not include the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

“The forest line boundary delineation for the ARMM is going to be a joint effort between the ARMM and DENR, Paje said.

In June 2012, Paje and ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman entered into a memorandum of agreement for a joint conduct of ARMM’s forest line boundary delineation, which runs to some 3,475 kilometers.

Under the agreement, the DENR has committed a financial assistance of P44 million for the undertaking, which is expected to be completed by end of the year.(PNA)


PMA to hold entrance exam in Camp Evangelista

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City - The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, with the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and Army Recruitment Center, will conduct the processing of applicants for PMA entrance examination (PMAEE).

This will be held at the Army Recruitment Office, at 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on August 24 and 25 here. In a press statement, it was disclosed that the requirements for the applicants are: birth certificate from the National Statistics Office, Form 137/Form 138/transcript of records and two pieces of 2 x 2-sized picture. This initial processing will be done in order to facilitate more applicants for the incoming PMAEE scheduled on

August 26 at the 4ID Gymnasium. This year, the PMA will now be accepting interested applicants with a minimum height of five feet, both for male and female. The lowering of the height requirement from 5’4” for male and 5’2” for female is expected to bring about increase in the number of applicants. The changes in the minimum height requirement came about when it was observed during the conduct of the limited physical


examination in different exam centers that many were denied the chance to go through the first phase of the selection process, solely for the reason of not meeting the height requirement. With the previous height requirement, many Filipino youth, who have good educational background and are physically fit, are disenfranchised from the opportunity of being able to take the entrance examination. With the adjustments made in the height requirement, PMA will be increasing the pool where the best candidate for PMA cadetship will be selected. The PMA has made a firm stand on its policy against maltreatment in the Cadet Corps, Armed Forces of the Philippines. PMA advocates “Zero Tolerance to Maltreatment.” The Academy is also aggressively implementing a “No maltreatment policy” among the cadets. PMA adheres to the respect of human rights, and observance of the principles of International Humanitarian Law and the rule of law. Other requirements for admission in the Philippine Military Academy are the following: must be a natural born Filipino citizen, physically fit and of good moral character, single and has never been married, at least high school graduate, no administrative/criminal case, must pass the PMAEE, and should have been born from April 1, 1991 to April 1, 1996. Being a PMA cadet will enable one to avail of a free college education with a well-rounded curriculum, as well as receive a monthly pay and allowances. After graduating from

the Academy, one is guaranteed a progressive career as an officer in the Army, Navy or Air Force. Successful applicants will compose the PMA Class 2017 who will be officially received in the Academy in an oath-taking ceremony and reception rites on April 1, 2013. Application forms can be downloaded from www.pma.ph. Applicants may also apply online in the said website. For more information, one can contact the Office of the Cadet Admission, Philippine Military Academy, Fort General Gregorio H. del Pilar, 2602, Baguio City. “We always support the Philippine Military Academy which is also my Alma Matter in getting the pool of best applicant coming from Mindanao. To qualified applicants, take advantage of this opportunity and eventually become a cadet of PMA who will be receiving not only full scholarship but also assured of stable job upon graduation,” MGen. Victor A. Felix AFP, Commander, 4ID said.


Lanao Norte Muslim residents receive rice packs by Lovely A. Rosario and Vincent N. Labial

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte - More than 46,000 Jama’ahs (Muslim believers) received one rice pack each as the provincial government here distributed 2,332 sacks of rice during the celebration of the holy month of Ramadhan.

Each pack contains 2.5 kilos of rice and distributed through the 634 mosques in the province. “This is a humble assistance to our Muslim brothers and sisters especially those living in the interior municipalities. Through this we want to impress on them that their government cares for them,” Information Officer Lyndon Calica explained. The distribution started on August 16, 2012 and end on August 25, 2012. The distribution process is spearheaded by the Provincial

Community Affairs Office (PCAO). According to Allan Datusapalao, municipal coordinator and in-charge of rice dissemination, 600 packs of dates (berry fruit) were also given to the mosques. The rice distribution was conducted in the mosques of every municipality with three PCAO teams facilitating the distribution in each town. “We are thankful for this support to the Muslims of Lanao del Norte. The Dimaporos have shown that they value both the Christians and Muslims

of this province. This assistance is indeed a great help to us especially those in Muslims need,” expressed Hadji Ali Ansao of Tubod, this province. The Lanao del Norte LGU has an assistance program for both the Christian and Muslim segments of the province.


World Vision program gains support of Misamis Occidentalby Pat D. Nano

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental - The Child Health Now (CHN) Advocacy Program of the World Vision, Inc. has gained the support of the Misamis Occidental Provincial Government.

This, after Governor Herminia M. Ramiro saw that the CHN, which was launched by the World Vision-Himaya Oroquieta City Chapter, recently, extends services not only to its members but to all the residents in the community. The CHN advocacy is in line with the objectives of the Millennium Development Goals (DG) of President Aquino that aims to reduce the rate of child and maternal mortality, in the country, Health and Nutrition Specialist Arlo Ramos of World Vision said. The program advocates for the strengthening of the policies and system of implementation of health programs to be done by the local officials and the health implementers in the community. Ramos said the program also aims to educate the community, particularly, the mothers on the proper way to raise children. Through the CHN, the World Vision is confident that they will

succeed in their advocacy by getting the support of the local and provincial leaders, such as, Governor Ramiro. However, Ramos clarified that the parents, themselves, is also very basic for the CHN to succeed, since it is really the parents who are responsible for the health needs of their children. Parents should see to it that they are giving their children the proper food and nutrients, such as, fruits and vegetables and not the junk foods, Ramos added.


DAVAO CITY- The 10th Infantry (Agila) Division, Philippine Army will take a two-pronged approach anchored on good governance, and peace and development to push its internal peace and secu-rity plan (IPSP). In his speech during the recent 6th founding anniversary of the 10th ID, commanding general Brigadier General Ariel Bernardo revealed that the thrust of 10th ID now builds on good governance along with delivery of

essential services and security sector reform. He cited this year’s anniversary theme, “Bayanihan at Tuwid na Panunungkulan: Daan para sa Mapayapa at M a s a g a n a n g Pamayanan,” as a pronouncement that the 10th ID

is also taking the direction of local government units (LGUs) towards good governance. He favorably took note of the enhanced governance system of the local government units in its area of responsibility (AOR) that each had received the Seal of Good-House Keeping from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). “Your army is this region is deeply honored working with you along

Army Division to focus on good governance, peace and dev’t by Jeanevive Abangan


that tuwid na daan na may matuwid na panunungkulan,” he said in the presence of local chief executives from the 10th ID area of responsibility (AOR), covering the provinces of Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental and Davao del Sur in Region 11, and the provinces of Sarangani and South Cotabato of Region 12. Bernardo saw a significant impact of integrating good governance into the social services initiatives to “build a strong foundational frame” of reaching out the people in need and in striking equality between peace and development. “I guess we are way passed that two baseline factors: a pervasive mindset for peace and development and improved governance, with the Seal of Good Housekeeping Awards the LGUs have just received,” he said. Citing the combination of good governance, and peace and development mindset, Bernardo revealed his intention for 10th ID brigades and battalions to focus on “multi-stakeholder approaches with the right and shared priorities.” With such focus, more peace and development teams (PDTs) will be deployed to remote barangays and sitios doing “facilitation, linkaging and networking with all stakeholders to collaborate and complement the efforts of the LGUs”, civic organizations, non-government organizations and the private sector, Bernardo said. He banked on the PDTs to

serve as “bridging tools, frontline soldiers acting as ambassadors of goodwill in the countryside” and as bridging leaders “that connect the marginalized areas and peoples into growth corridors.” Plotting soldiers to do community work, Bernardo shared a vision of reducing poverty in the countryside, and helping “cure the social, economic and political issues that have fueled anti-government sentiments for years.” The 10th Infantry “Agila” Division has pushed its way forward towards this goal since 2010 with the launching of the Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP), way ahead of the Bayanihan IPSP at the national level. As of this month, PDTs through PDOP, have immersed and rendered community services in 43 percent of the 1,797 total barangays in its AOR. They are currently immersing in 13 percent of the covered barangays, and 44 percent are yet to be served. Bernardo revealed that community immersions led to the discovery of 259 local communist party mass-base support groups in the barangays, consequently bringing back the government support of 5,532 communist party group members. The presence of soldiers in barangays also led to the rescue of 21 minors, and the surrender of 427 New People’s Army (NPA) regular members. More than 100 of them went back to the folds of the law during the first semester this year.


DAVAO CITY- An artificial coral reef which features simple block con-struction materials will be imple-mented by Junior Chamber Interna-tional in Barangay Camudmud, the Island Garden City of Samal. Dubbed as the Project Sea of Life spearheaded by JCI Manila in partnership with counterparts in JCI Davao, JCI Daba-Daba, the Island Garden City of Samal, the Philippine Ecowarriors along with private donors the projects aims to install 50 domes plus the donation of 20 solar lamps to fisherfolks and

bantay-dagat in the community. The project was launched last August 19 with former Senator Miguel Zubiri as guest speaker, the former senator is the proponent of the Philippine ecowarriors movement which is actively supporting the Sea of Life project. Carlo Lorenzana, project co-chair said that the artificial reef installation is the second project of JCI in the country the first Sea of Life project was implemented in Palawan.He said that the site was identified

JCI launches artificial reef project in IGACOSby RG Alama

JCI Manila President Rodney Dizon and former Senator and head of Phil. Ecow-arriors Movement Miguel Zubiri sign the Memorandum of Agreement on the Sea of Life Artificial coral reef project which will be imple-mented in barangay Camudmud, Samal Island.


through the help of a survey conducted by Daba-Daba Jaycees and City Councilor Richard Guindolman who recommended the marine protected area of barangay Camudmud. The domes are man-made domes made up of concrete and other construction materials; this serves a fish habitat and shelter to be used to rehabilitate reefs damaged by destructive fishing practices such as illegal dynamite and cyanide fishing. The domes were conceptualized by Chris Dearne, a General Santos –based British hotelier and diver who thought of an idea after seeing the state of local reefs. According to Dearne they have constructed 5,000 domes in about 40 months. “these domes are normal everyday building materials,

we kept it simple, nothing imported.” Dearne describes the man-made reefs. He said that based on the assessments done on installed domes about 90% of the domes have attracted fish and other organisms. D e a r n e said that in order to be successful these domes have to be untouched as he noticed that several fisherman still would try to overturn the installed domes to

force out the fishes. Several domes were also destroyed because of ship’s anchors. According to Divine Magtoto, president of Daba-Daba Jaycees the areas where the domes will be installed will be non-fishing and non-anchorage areas. The project aims to help rebuild marine life and the fishing livelihood of the community in the area. Junior Chamber International is a leadership development organization composed of young entrepreneurs, businessmen, professionals, socio-civic leaders and other committed individuals who aim to hone their leadership skills within the context of community development activities.


S. Cotabateños offer necrological mass for Sec. RobredoBy Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY – The provincial govern-ment of South Cotabato is sponsoring a necro-logical service in mem-ory of the late Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Ro-bredo.

The mass, which will be attended by officials and employees of the provincial government, the Philippine National Police, regional government offices and residents, will be held at 4:00 o’clock this afternoon at the covered court inside the provincial capitol compound here.

The mass is co-sponsored by the


provincial DILG office. DILG Provincial

Director Josephine Leysa said, the provincial LGU is one with entire nation in mourning the the death of Sec. Robredo.

“Secretary Robredo is a very big loss not only to the Department of the Interior and Local Government but also to the entire nation that lost a very good leader,” she said.

On Wednesday, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan passed a resolution “expressing deep loss of the demise of late Sec. Jesse Robredo and extending sympathy and condolence to the bereaved family.”

A copy of the resolution was sent to Atty. Lenny Robredo, wife of the secretary.

Koronadal City government, led by Mayor Peter B. Miguel, also offered a necrological mass for the secretary yesterday at the new city hall in Carpenter Hill. It was attended by city officials and employees, PNP, representatives of different sectors as well as residents of the city.

Participants were united in describing the late secretary as a “a great leader and a true catalyst change.”

Vigil, candle lighting and praying of the Holy

Rosary followed the mass.

Mayor Miguel flew to Metro Manila this morning to join mayors all over the country in paying their last respect to Sec. Robredo.

DILG-12, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the PNP also held an interfaith prayer Thursday for the repose of Sec. Robredo.

Meanwhile, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) also held a mass in honor of the late secretary at 7:00 this morning inside the ARMM compound. (ARMM).

KORONADAL CITY – Interior and local government secretary Jesse Robredo was set to be the guest of honor of the jovial 2012 Talakudong Festival on September 18, 2012.

Tacurongnons mourn the death of their 2012 Talakudong Festival guest of honor

The festive mood all over Tacurong City , while everybody prepare for the celebration, unexpectedly turned to an atmosphere of grief and mourning

as reports confirmed the death of the good secretary in the ill-fated Piper Seneca plane on August 21, 2012.

Saddened, Tacurong City residents, regret they could have proudly

shown secretary Robredo the city’s Seal of Good Housekeeping hanging in the premises of the city hall. The city was the first recipient of the seal in Region 12.

By Aida Agad


Tacurongnons mourn the death of their 2012 Talakudong Festival guest of honor They could have

thanked him for believing in the city’s potentials. They could have escorted him while visiting development projects in the city made possible by his support through the Local Government Support Fund.

All these sentiments goes out as they feel remorse for the loss of

a great servant leader and role model.

City mayor Lina Montilla said “in the eyes of Tacurongnons and of the whole nation, Sec. Robredo is one of a kind.”

“His humility is admirable. He responds to text messages. Very open ang line of communication between him and

the local leaders. I will never forget how accommodating and sincere he is to us mayors. I don’t know how he did it but he knows each mayor’s, each city’s concerns very well. He has that personal touch, that sensitivity to our needs,” Montilla said.

Mayor Lina recalls how the late secretary responded when she aired the city’s need for more police personnel. From 52 policemen, Tacurong now has 82.

The late secretary was also the mayor’s role model, as she said “as a neophyte mayor, his insights on good governance helped me. Nailatag na nya ang mga direksyon para sa isang mabuting pamamahala.”

“Kahit wala na siya, susundin natin yun. I know that wherever it leads us, it will be a good place,” Montilla said of her model.

The City Local G o v e r n m e n t Operations Officer


DOST announces scholarships for incoming freshmenBy Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – The Soccsksargen Region office of the Department of Science and Technology today announced the opening of scholarships available to incoming freshmen students in school year 2013 – 2014.

Dr. Zenaida Hadji-Raof-Laidan, DOST 12 regional director, said the scholarships will be awarded to students who would like to pursue bachelor’s degree in priority courses in sciences, engineering, and mathematics.

Deadline for

submission of application will be on October 5 to be allowed to take the simultaneous nationwide 2013 S & T Scholarship Examination on November 18. Performance in the examination will be the basis for an applicant’s entry to the scholarship

program. Thus, Laidan urged

graduating senior high school students who belong to the top five percent of their class to avail of the scholarship being offered.

She explained these scholarships are being offered under the Merit Scholarship

Mr. Alberto P. Sero Jr., has also this to say, “na-uplift niya ang morale namin sa DILG because of his programs on good governance.

“Dahil sa mga ginawa nya, mas nagkaroon kami ng confidence sa implementation ng mga programa. Talagang naka-backup sya, makikita mo yung political will at sincerity niya. Naibalik yung tiwala ng mga

tao sa gobyerno kahit hanggang sa barangay level,” said Sero.

Local officials also said they can only recall the words of the late secretary as their inspiration during the Region XII’s TAPATAN on Disaster Risk Reduction, “hindi sapat na tayo ay magaling lamang. Hindi sapat na tayo ay matino. Ang hinahanap po natin sa paglilingkod ay mahusay at matino.”

They also vowed to follow positive changes that Sec. Robredo facilitated in local governance as they continue to serve with transparency and integrity.

In honor and mourning for their supposed Guest of Honor, the city is now flying the Philippine flags in half-mast in all government installations and AFP posts.


Program and the S & T Scholarship Program under the Republic Act 7687 (Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994).

Merit Program is open to students regardless of economic status while RA 7687 caters only to students from e c o n o m i c a l l y disadvantaged families.

Said scholarships are annually offered through the Science Education Institute (SEI) of DOST to strengthen the country’s competitiveness in the fields of science, m a t h e m a t i c s , engineering, and technology among others and to further drive national economic development.

“One of the major keys for a brighter national economic future rests in the field of science and technology,” Dr. Laidan said.

Scholars under RA 7687 are entitled

to tuition and other school fees subsidies, book allowance and a monthly living allowance.

Merit scholars, on the other hand, are entitled to the same benefits except for a pro-rated monthly stipend depending on the economic status of their families.

Designated testing centers in Region 12 are University Laboratory School-University of Southern Mindanao in Kabacan, North Cotabato; Notre Dame University in Cotabato City; Mindanao State University in General Santos City; Notre Dame of Marbel

University in K o r o n a d a l City; and the Sultan Kudarat State U n i v e r s i t y in Tacurong City.

Interested s t u d e n t s may get app l i cat ion forms from the DOST 12 regional office or the nearest Provincial S

& T Center. Forms can also be downloaded at www.science-scholarships.ph.

Online application is acceptable provided that the basic requirements should be submitted to the S & T center or the regional office.

For more information call DOST 12 main office at (064) 421-6908 or 421-2711 or get in touch with the S&T center in your area: (083) 554-7997 (Gensan); (083) 228-2342 (South Cotabato); 09195704895 (Sultan Kudarat); and (064) 288-5174 (North Cotabato).


www.piacaraga.blogspot.com http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-Caraga-Updates/165374590187484

NAPOLCOM Caraga to host 18th Nat’l Crime Prevention Week in Butuan Cityby Danilo S. Makiling

In a statement from NAPOLCOM Caraga, it said that the activity does not only promote social order and justice but also protects

the economy of our country. “Any measures to be effective must cover not only the criminal justice system but also the community

BUTUAN CITY -- The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM)-Caraga region will host the 18th National Crime Prevention Week here in the city with the theme, “Sa Crime Prevention, May Magagawa Ako” slated on September 1-7, 2012.


NAPOLCOM Caraga to host 18th Nat’l Crime Prevention Week in Butuan City

or various sectors of society,” said NAPOLCOM-Caraga Regional Director atty. Remeneo Valenzuela. The official also said theefforts to create safe communities must go hand in hand with community development activities. “Thus, the 18th NCPW Celebration shall strengthen and empower the citizens against crime victimization as well as enlist the public to engage in crime prevention projects of the government to increase awareness and improve security in our communities,” Valenzuela said. The weeklong celebration of 18TH NCPW will have a Fun Walk and Hataw as kickoff activity, to be participated by different line agencies of the government, nongovernment organization, academe, and the religious sector.

For more information, contact the NAPOLCOM Caraga regional Office at (085) 342-8785.


Agusan Sur Gov. turns over 3 projects in Barangay Zilovia, Talacogonby Alexis Cabardo

ZILOVIA, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur -- Agusan del Sur Governor Adolph Edward Plaza has turned over three major barangay projects here believed to make a difference in the life of the residents.

These projects are the concreting of 100-meter barangay roads, street lights and a day care center building. According to Barangay Captain Ernesto Napao, the projects are considered the most needed by residents because Barangay Zilovia is one of the most progressive barangays in the entire municipality of Talacogon, where one of the big companies, the Provident Tree Farms Inc. (PTFI), a match stick processing plant is located. “It is noted that our barangay is a flood prone area and before reaching ourbarangay during rainy season, some portion of the roadnetworks are flooded.Weareveryglad thatportionof theflooded roadis now concreted. Local residents are also very happy that street lights are now installed and are in full function because like other progressive places, theft is one of the main problem in barangay Zilovia especially during night time,” Napao said. In his message, Plaza said the concreting of the 100 meters road is only the start of more infrastructure

projects in Zilovia. Plaza challenges the barangay council to come up with more project proposals because the provincial government is setting aside funds for the barangay development projects every year. “I am also very glad to hear from Barangay Captain Ernesto Napao that the street lights will solve the problem of theft and robbery. But I also believe that other street criminalities will reduce like unreasonable killing and others. In short, with the installation of the street lights, our brothers and sisters will no longer be afraid to walk in the streets during the night. And another most important project that I turned-over today is the day care center, where preschool children will be given the chance to learn before they enter the formal schooling,” Plaza said. The three projects, according to Barangay Captain Napao, amounted to P2.2 million. The turnover ceremony highlighted the fiesta celebration of Barangay Zilovia.


With his untimely death, the DILG Region 13 mourned for loss of a noble leader who is always on the “go” whenever important issues arise anywhere in the country. He was known for his sincerity in public service and he leads the interior and local government sector with vigor in putting into action the mandates of the Department. Secretary Robredo was known

as the “Man in Action” and a “Man in Service”. It could be remembered that he came to Caraga Region to personally conduct an ocular inspection to the illegal logs that were confiscated inBrgy. Amparo, Butuan City. He had an interface with the Indigenous People’s, the LGUs and the media to convince that illegal logging be stopped. Undaunted, he also gave marching

DILG 13 Mourns For the Loss of DILG Sec. Robredoby Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa

Butuan City -- “Matagal ko na pong sinasabi na itinaas na natin ang antas o sukat ng pamamahala. Hindi sapat na tayo ay mahusay dahil hindi lahat nang mahusay ay matino. Hindi lahat nang matino ay mahusay. Ang hinahanap po nating pamamahala ay mahusay at matino upang karapat dapat tayong pagkatiwalaan ng mga tao lalo na sa pera ng bayan”, famous words of the late Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse M. Robredo.


orders to relieve the composite team of monitoring stations of PNP and DENR personnel where the illegal logs passed through. In fact, several officialsinthePNPandDENRwere placed in the sack to be accountable for their lapses. “Secretary Jesse M. Robredo is a champion of good governance. In fact, he looks into the details of our work but at the same time placed emphasis on the output of what we do. He looks at performance with integrity. For him, the programs of this Department is achieved when it produced an impact in the community level,” shared by DILG Region 13 Director Lilibeth A. Famacion. Constantly, Secretary Jesse M. Robredo is reminding local government officials and his DILG personnel tobe committed in the performance of government service. He believes that in merit-based system, performance

and compliance is easily achieved. This will, according to Sec. Robredo, improve the scale of governance and pave the way for positive change. He believes that there is an incentive for compliance. “This should be a dynamic instrument because if there is

one thing we’d like to bring, it’s making sure that we do performance at the same time prudence and compliance of rules in so far as the use of government money is concerned,” according to him. To pay respect in honor of Secretary Robredo, the DILG Region


13 offered a Misa Requiem in the office last August22, 2012. The Department also extends its deepest sympathy to the family of Secretary Robredo. The Department flagwas already hoisted in half mast. This August 23, 2012 at 6:00 p.m., a mass will be offered at St. Joseph Cathedral, Butuan City to be attended by different agencies in the region together with all the mourning public. As always stressed by Secretary Robredo, “Dapat nating bigyang saysay ang ating mga ginagawa para ang

lahat ng ito’y maging makabuluhan.” For DILG Region 13, what Sec. Robredo has started will be continued. The legacy he has left behind will always be etched in the hearts of the Department personnel.


piazampen.blogspot.comhttp://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-WesMin-Info-Blitz/204864762911310 [email protected]

Want to publish your photo, news and feature release just email

Ecolink Phils, DILG, PNP join the nation in mourning and tribute of late Sec. RobredoBy Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – As the nation mourns the loss of Interior and Local Gov’t Secretary Jesse Robredo, the Ecolink Philippines , a leading Civil Society Organization in Mindanao that promotes good governance, social accountability, and anti-corruption campaign in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and PNP on Thursday evening, conducted a candle lighting ceremony in front of Jose Rizal monument, city complex here.


The ceremony which was started at 6 pm was attended by the members of Ecolink Phils, PNP, municipal local government operation officers, students, and civic organizations. Ecolink Philippines Executive Secretary Faye Reyes said , the organization has partnered with DILG in the implementation of Bantay Red Plate, LGU Fleet Management Project, Governance and Social accountability similar to the dream of the late Secretary Robredo. Reyes said the untimely demise of Robredo was a big loss

to us and something which would be very difficult for the nation to accept because the nation truly believes that good governance is through transparency, integrity and accountability of the government officials and citizens in which he strongly founded. “The nation lost a great man and a passionate advocate of good governance,” Reyes said. “The candle lighting ceremony was a gesture of unity in acknowledging the contributions of Sec. Robredo who tirelessly worked and contributed greatly to President Aquino’s campaign for good governance as a means to improve the lives of our countrymen,” Reyes explained.


Dipolog hosts first IPP info driveby Franklin P. Gumapon

More than 100 participants turned up to get their issues and concerns answered by BOI personnel composed of Engr. Guillermo S. Laquindanum, Supervision and Monitoring Department head, Remegia A. Aramil, Resource-based Industries Department chief and Senior Investment Specialist Gina C. Aquiza. Engr. Laquindanum presented the preferred investment activities under the 2012 IPP which include agriculture/agribusiness and fishery, creative industries/knowledge-

based services, shipbuilding, mass housing, iron and steel products, energy, infrastructure, research and development, green projects, motor vehicles, strategic projects which provide very social economic returns, hospital/medical services, and disaster prevention, mitigation and recovery projects. Laquindanum added that these investment activities also cover industrial tree plantation, exploration, mining, quarrying and processing of minerals, publication or printing of books/textbooks, refining,

DIPOLOG CITY - The first leg of a series of orientation-seminars by the Board of Investments (BOI)on the 2012 Investment Priorities Plan (IPP) was held here Thursday with city/municipal officials, business leaders and representatives of national and local government agencies as participants.


The Dept. of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 9 recently initiated the partnership with the local government units for the implementation of the program as DSWD sees the direct management of cases of deportees by the local social welfare and development offices in the municipalities (MSWDOs) is seen as an effective strategy that will stimulate the idea of setting down permanently at one’s community rather than seek for employment in a foreign land. The Reintegration Program provides a package of social and economic reintegration services

for deportees for them to attain an improved quality of life. Specifically it aims to increase economic capacities, facilitate psychological healing and recovery in line with the promotion of harmonious relationship among family members through psychosocial services. Aling Sauda and her husband, Mustafa were once upon a time undocumented Filipino workers in Malaysia working as construction helpers. After Aling Sauda was apprehended by Malaysian authorities for having no “passjalan” (passport),the Sakilan couple decided to return to Zamboanga City

Reintegration Program: a new hope for Filipino deportees

ZAMBOANGA CITY - With the pressing need to come up with an extensive and broader approach in assisting the thousands of deportees from Malaysia to include repatriates and returning OFWs, partnering with various organization and agencies is a strategy now considered indispensable in social work.

By Dominic I. Sanchez

storage, marketing and distribution of petroleum products, ecological solid waste management, clean water projects, and rehabilitation, self-development and self-reliance of persons with disability. The next leg of the IPP orientation-seminar will be held next week in Butuan City. Joining the BOI staff in the conduct of said activity was BOI

Governor Pelagio T. Recalde. Recalde got awe-struck with scenic Dapitan which is home to Rizal Shrine and renowned Dakak Park and Beach Resort. The BOI governor has also seen the tourism potentials of Dapitan which would serve as a catalyst of more business opportunities not only in this city but in its neighboring city of Dipolog and towns as well.


(their homeplace) with their 3 children and start life anew. After submitting themselves as beneficiaries for the program, they availed of a financial assistance in the amount of P8,000 which they invested in a “kariton”( a makeshift wooden cart) and started a vending business at the local market. With religious effort , they were able to repay the amount even before the payment term ends and were still able to double up their investments. From 1 single kariton, they now have 10 karitons being rented out to at the local market. “Nagpapasalamat talaga kami na naging beneficiary kami ng Reintegration Program kung saan na-train kami at nabigyan ng SEA-K loan” (We are so thankful that we were chosen as beneficiaries of the Reintegration Program and was able to attend trainings and avail of the loan) quips Mang Mustafa, who has been a very reliable partner.

Peter Halilulla, upon receiving a livelihood assistance amounting to P10 thousand from the SEA-K program of the DSWD, engaged in seaweeds farming. Since then, he has been making good income, quite enough to sustain the needs of his family to include the schooling of his two children. Since he is also skilled in welding, he was also provided a “Pangkabuhayan Starter Kit” by DOLE which he uses for contracted welding works. (A group of deportees skilled in welding and construction works was organized by the program. The “Welder Group” as called, caters to special works hired by construction firms for special projects) The department is looking forward to this program which hopes to bring down the number of deportees or at least encourage others from taking the risk of travelling abroad undocumented.


Illegal Logging destroys 6 hectares of forest in Lamitan City By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – a Six hectare land of trees was discovered destroyed in the forested area of Lamitan City, tagging the notorious lawless group Abu Sayyafs as perpetrators.


Following information received by the City Government of Lamitan, Mayor Roderick Furigay immediately instructed the Office of City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR) to check on alleged mass illegal cutting of trees at the reforested area of Lamitan “water shed” in Upper Arco, this city. The OCENR, together with the military and the police proceeded to the area to verify the information and were surprised and so disgusted to see that more than 6 hectares of trees that include mahogany, acacia, gemelina, and narra were destroyed. The village chief of Barangay Arco, Edgardo Alipio alleged that a certain Delos Reyes who is a former member of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in Basilan allegedly masterminded the cutting of trees in the area together with some alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf Group from Sumisip and Tipo-Tipo municipalities. Barangay Arco lays at the boundary of Lamitan from the Sampinit Complex, a known lair of the bandit group linked with both the Al-Qaeda and its Asian cell, the Jemaah Islamiya. The Sampinit Complex is a mountain range at the

boundaries of Tuburan, Tipo-Tipo, Sumisip, Lantawan, and Maluso towns, and Lamitan and Isabela cities. During the inspection, authorities made no arrest as no individual was found in the area. The military immediately burned all huts, which possibly serve as resting place of the group. Barangay chairman Alipio has requested from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to establish checkpoint or detachment in the area. “This will prevent lawless group from getting back to the ‘water shed’ area and continue their illegal activities,” he said. Sources said the Abu Sayyaf is determined to destroy all trees near the ‘water shed’ area since they are planning to plant rubber trees. The bandit group also alleged that the reforestation was made in their territory. Mayor Furigay, meanwhile, has directed all agencies to intensify their campaign against illegal logging following a directive from no less than President Benigno Aquino III to curb all illegal logging activities that destroys the forest.

Date post:	21-Mar-2016
Category:	Documents
Upload:	pia-mindanao
View:	224 times
Download:	3 times

One Mindanao - August 24, 2012

Documents