One Mindanao - July 16, 2015

EDITORIAL ADVISERS

SEC. SONNY B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information Agency

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

EFREN F. ELBANBUENACluster Head, Southern, Western and Central MindanaoRegional Director, PIA Region XI

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

REGIONAL DESK EDITORS FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IX

ALMA L. TINGCANG, PIA Region IX ELAINE O. RATUNIL, PIA Region X RUDOLPH IAN G. ALAMA, PIA Region XI DANNY E. DOGUILES, PIA Region XII FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region

COPY EDITORS

FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga Region

VENUS L. GARCIA, PIA Caraga Region

SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST

GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)

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

SOCCSKSARGEN Region

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]

Northern Mindanao

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

J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phWebsite: www.piacaraga.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur, Pia Dinagat Islands Power FM - CaragaTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

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]

LAYOUT ARTISTS

EMMANUEL D. TAGHOY, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region X

ZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region X

DAISY JANE M. APIT, PIA Region XIII

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

NOEMI B. EDAGARegional Director, PIA Region IX

THELMA B. OLIVERRegional Director, PIA Region X

OLIVIA T. SUDARIARegional Director, PIA Region XII

EDITORIAL BOARD

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESOne Mindanao

Two state-of-the-art buildings in NorthCot now completed

High school alumni join Tacurong’s City Hall sa Barangay

RDRRMC line agencies plant trees along Davao River

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DTI-Agusan del Norte launches Caraga’s 2ndNegosyo Center

PhilRice recommends rice varieties for rainy season

ARMM halal products making waves in Mindanao Halal Festival

Electric coops saddled with high system loss and low collection efficiency, says ZAMSURECO-1 manager

DTI Surigao Norte intensifies consumer education advocacy campaign

P720M concrete bridge in SurSur town set for soft-opening

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By: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

By: LGU Tacurong City Information

By: Rodrigo R. Matabaran

By: Greg Tataro, Jr.

Cover Story

CARAGA

WESTERN NORTHERN

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SOCCSKSARGENSOUTHERN

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Cultural events, sports highlight Ozamiz City fiesta

Wall of Art: Mural painting against child laborBy: Glenford C. Labial

By: RG Alama

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By: NC Coordinating Unit-Caraga

Contents

By: Rutchie C. Aguhob

26 PWDs fete centers on health concerns

By: Carina L. Cayon

4 July 16, 2015One Mindanao


DTI-Agusan del Norte launches Caraga’s 2nd Negosyo Center

Cover Story

5July 16, 2015 One Mindanao


The region launched its 2ndNegosyo Center (NC) as one of the

culminating highlights of Butuan City’s annual Balangay Festival last May 29, 2015.

On hand to grace the affair were Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr., members of the city council led by the Committee on Trade and Industry Chair Ryan Culima and Committee on Gender and Development Rema Erigbuagas-Burdeos. The city officials were joined by members of the City Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council, the academe, representatives


from regional line agencies and SME organizations of the city. In attendance also were the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Knowledge Management Information Service (KMIS) Director Patricia May Abejo, DTI- Caraga Regional Director Brielgo O. Pagaran and the DTI-Agusan del Norte and Regional Office staff. OIC-Provincial Director Gay Tidalgo in welcoming the guests said the setting up of the Negosyo Center is not only in compliance with the law “but to provide further support to the micro entrepreneurs who are our prime movers of the economy. How are

we going to enhance our a s s i s t a n c e to them? N e g o s y o Center is the answer.” She said the center will handle “ a n y t h i n g a b o u t business from start-up to expansion.”

M a y o r Amante said that with the stiff competition with other cities or locations the city may have a hard time luring bigger investments. And yet he is very happy because “now we can be sure that we will be serving our micro, small enterprises with our Negosyo Center.” Councilor Ryan Culima is likewise upbeat. He thanked the DTI for partnering actively with LGU Butuan to grow its economy. He looks forward to having potential investors for Butuan City to be welcomed by the Negosyo Center with its enticing ambience and the city investment officer coming to the


center to assist in the servicing. RD Brielgo Pagaran congratulated everyone present and called on their full support for the center. He then led the signing of the pledge of commitment. The latter was done in lieu of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), the signing of which was scheduled on another date due to prior commitments of some of the principalsignatories. The latter include the principals of the Butuan City Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Father Saturnino Urios University, Philippine Institute of

Certified Accountants (PICPA) – Butuan City &Agusan del Norte Chapter, Caraga State University, Department of Science & Technology, Department of Agriculture, Technical Education Skills Development Authority, Department of Labor & Employment, Caraga Regional Association of Traders and Entrepreneurs (CREATE) Food, Inc. and the local government unit of Butuan City. The activity also has as side feature the launching of the Shared Service Facility for ButuanCity’s Creative Industry (music sector).



PH committed to help in global response against ebola

MANILA – The Philippines is committed to do its share in coming up with a global response against the threat of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) as well as in sustaining the resiliency of its own health systems.

The Department of Foreign Affairs in a statement said Philippine Health Secretary Janette P. Loreto-Garin addressed the International Ebola Recovery

Conference at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters on July 10, saying the Philippines remains free of the disease.

“The Philippine government is committed to sustain and make the most of the gains we have achieved thus far. As


a responsible member of the international community of nations, the Philippines is also committed to do its share in the global response against EVD,” she said.

The Conference, hosted by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to ensure that the Ebola affected countries receive the support and resources they need to “get to zero, stay at zero and recover”. In attendance were President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, President Alpha Conde of Guinea, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and President Ernest Bai Koroma of Sierra Leone. At least 20 Foreign, Health and Finance Ministers participated in the Conference.

Secretary Garin said the Philippine Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and the UNDP, signed in February a Standard

Administrative Arrangement for the management of the country’s contribution of US$2 million to the Ebola Response Multi-Transfer Fund to support global Ebola outbreak control efforts.

She disclosed that the Philippines may also consider offering advanced training on infectious diseases for medical practitioners from EVD-affected countries.

In her statement, the Health Secretary also discussed the country’s own response to the Ebola outbreak since it was declared as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization in August 2014.

“The Philippine Government has geared its actions towards Preparedness and Response for the Prevention and Control of Ebola Virus Disease which extensively involved the participation of various government agencies.


The value of preparedness, capacity building and the effective communication of risks cannot be underestimated,” she said.

She said today’s Conference will allow the international community to harness partnerships forged since the International Health Regulations of 2005 to prevent, protect against, control and provide a public health response to public health risks, in this case, the international spread of EVD.

“It is now more critical how the outputs of this collaborative activity will be translated to meaningful outcomes in different countries that we represent, especially in the context of building back better and more resilient health systems. Rest assured that the Philippines will continue to be of support to related undertakings to achieve ‘get to zero and stay at zero’ campaign against Ebola Virus Disease,” she added. (DFA)


PhilRice recommends rice varieties for rainy season

QUEZON CITY-- Planting early-maturing and high-quality rice varieties is vital for the rainy days.

Dr. Norvie Manigbas, head of PhilRice’s Plant Breeding and Biotechnology Division, said that

after the onslaught of drought, the next challenge is to select the varieties suited for the rainy


days.

Farmers are advised to plant varieties, which stand at most 100 cm with strong stems that can withstand 40-60 kph wind speed.

Some of these varieties are PSB Rc14, PSB Rc68, NSIC Rc9, and NSIC Rc222.

“There are also varieties released in 2011, which are good for dry conditions or for areas that normally experience delayed or almost no rainfall.

These Sahod Ulan varieties are NSIC Rc272, NSIC Rc274, NSIC Rc278, NSIC Rc284, NSIC Rc286, NSIC Rc288, NSIC Rc346, and NSIC Rc348,” Manigbas said.

Rainfed areas are also prone to flooding. The varieties suited for this condition are PSB Rc18 (Ala), which can withstand 5-7 days of complete submergence, NSIC Rc194 (Submarino 1),

which can survive, grow, and develop even after 10-14 days of complete submergence, and PSB Rc68 (Sacobia), a submergence- tolerant and a drought-resistant variety. These varieties can recover when submerged during vegetative stage.

Additionally, PhilRice also emphasizes reduction of fertilizer application rates. “While fertilizers are beneficial for plants, in high amounts, they may cause lodging. Fertilizers cannot be maximized, as there is a limited amount of sunlight during the rainy season. Depending on soil analysis results and recommended nutrient requirement rates, it is better to reduce fertilizer application rates by 20-30% in wet season,” Manigbas explained. For more information on rice varieties for wet season, please contact the PhilRice Text Center at 0920-911-1398. (DA-PhilRice)


ARMM halal products making waves in Mindanao Halal Festival

COTABATO CITY, July 16 (PNA) -- Officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Thursday said Muslim products are making waves in the two-day exhibition of halal and halal-certified products, dubbed as 1st Mindanao Halal Festival at a mall in Davao City.

Secretary Myra Mangkabung of the ARMM Department of Tourism (DOT-ARMM), said Escider Inc., a business investment firm spearheaded the two-day halal festival (July 15-16) that features foods, apparel, fashion accessories, organic

products and other services that are halal certified. The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) with the Islamic Chamber of Commerce, ARMM’s Science and Technology department (DOST-ARMM) and


the Davao City government supported the event.

Mangkabung said the 1st Mindanao Halal Festival is aimed at attracting more investors and partners to put up potential halal investments in Mindanao. The event provides entrepreneurs producing halal products an opportunity through the two-day market exposure.

It also serves as a key focal point for education of halal practices and what it means to improve business integrity through values perpetuated by truly halal role models, she added.

“This will help out entrepreneurs not only in ARMM but all over Mindanao and the country to promote skills and products that are halal certified,” said Ester Rulona, one of the exhibitors from ARMM.

Mangkabung reiterated that the two-day halal event also offers a chance for consumers to explore the diversity of the halal food market and its potential.

“Muslim Mindanao has great potentials to become a main

source of halal products, which could spur the region’s economy,” said Sec. Mangkabung.

Among of the highlights of the festival is the launching of the country’s first halal ordinance in Davao City and the Mindanao-wide Qur’an recital competition.

For each night of the two-day event, the public will able to taste various halal foods through a nightly food festival with dishes based on Mindanaoan cuisine. Winners of the competition will receive monetary price and an all-expense paid pilgrimage trip to Mecca next year.


“We should further develop and promote our halal food particularly for export to also make our tourist destinations in the Philippines more friendly to Muslim tourists,” said NCMF Secretary Yasmin Busran-Lao.

“Halal food is consumed by even non-Muslim consumers because it has highest standards of food safety,” she added.

As of May 31, the halal-certifying bodies accredited by the NCMF include Muslim Mindanao Halal Certification Board Inc., Mindanao Halal Authority Inc. and Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industries of the Philippines Inc.

The NCMF is a national commission mandated under Article 2 Section 8 of the Republic Act 9997 to promote and develop the Philippine Halal Industry and accredit halal-certifying entities/bodies for the utmost benefit of Muslim Filipinos and in partnership or cooperation with appropriate agencies individuals and institutions here and abroad.

In ARMM, the DOST plans to conduct a halal congress in October this year to help propel the region’s bid to get a slice of the multi-billion global halal market. (PNA)


PAGADIAN CITY – Engr. Jose Raul A. Saniel, manager and chief executive officer of the Zamboanga del Sur Electric Cooperative (ZAMSURECO)-I on Wednesday expressed his thanks to the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 for giving the information officers of the electric cooperatives (ECs) in Zamboanga Peninsula (ZamPen) a training on newswriting and photography.

ZAMSURECO-1 chief lauds PIA-9 for imparting knowledge in newswriting, photography

By Gideon C. Corgue


In his welcome message during the three-day journalistic writing workshop attended by some 20 information officers from ZAMSURECO-1, ZAMSURECO-2 and the Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative (ZANECO), Saniel said “the workshop is extremely important for ECs, as it is an effective and powerful tool to effectively and efficiently undertake information, education and communication (IEC) campaign through via print and social media.” The workshop, which started July 15-17 at the Heroes’ Function Hall, ZAMSURECO-1 here, was supported by Region IX Electric Cooperatives Association (RENECA) and Regional Association of General Managers (RAGMA).

Saniel said when he studied the organizational competencies of ZAMSURECO I, he found out that there is need to hone the writing skills of its employees particularly the information officers to help strengthen the IEC campaign for all its the programs and projects. “This workshop is extremely important for our organization to be able to come up with strategies and to effectively serve our member-consumers and media partners in matters of information dissemination.” “This activity also paves the way for the electric cooperatives to see a government agency like PIA working and helping us improve our newswriting and photography skills,” Saniel, who is one of the participants himself,

pointed out. T h e ZAMSURECO administrator said he hoped that the strong p a r t n e r s h i p between the ECs and PIA would continue to serve their clients better.


Saniel cited the two types of systems loss namely, the technical and the non-technical aspects. The technical aspect includes power line losses, distribution transformers, among others. The non-technical losses are power pilferage, inaccuracy of meter reading and billing, as well asold and defective kilowatthour meters. To reduce system loss, a thorough evaluation must be done according to the manager. The best strategy, he added, is to automate meter reading and billing processes to correct errors and inaccuracies usually committed in manual operations.He also suggested that electric cooperatives should adopt a regular maintenance plan for distribution transformers.Based on the study conducted,

accuracy of old meters is on the average of 70 percent only. However, replacing old meters requires huge amount of capital investment. On the other hand, Saniel presented a cost-effective strategy to address system loss by conducting massive inspection of household connections. In this way, the electric cooperative would be able to update its members’ records and, at the same time, distribute IEC materials on energy saving tips and anti-pilferage regulations. By doing this, the electric cooperative shall be able to bring down system loss and increasing collection efficiency thus ensuring financial sustainability, the ZAMSURECO-I manager emphasized.

Electric coops saddled with high system loss and low collection efficiency, says ZAMSURECO-1 managerPAGADIAN CITY - General Manager Raul A. Saniel said in an interviewtoday that the main problems of most electric cooperatives are high systems loss and low collection efficiency, admitting that these two are very difficult to address.


New generation job search kiosk now in Oro City Hall

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Labor and Employment, Regional Office No. 10 (DOLE-10), through its Regional Director Raymundo G. Agravante turned-over the DOLE’s new generation of job search kiosk to Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno on 13 July 2015 during its Monday Flag Raising.

by Rutchie C. Aguhob


The activity was attended by the 500 City Hall employees and its officers and other elected officials. The launching was spearheaded by the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) or its Job Placement Bureau, through Rey Tagotongan. The installation of the kiosk envisions assisting job seekers, at no-cost, to access relevant information on job openings, hiring requirements of employers or upgrade their skills through the Technical Education and Development Administration (TESDA) programs and the Bureau of Local Employment career guides. Director Agravante believes, “Finding employment opportunities in the job market will become easier with the deployment of the 15 job search kiosks in the region’s five provinces.” In fact, Agravante added, “This is one of DOLE’s strategies in facilitating job matching and placement of job seekers, as well as a very timely approach in this fast-paced aged of information and communication technology. It even

provides free state-of-the-art employment service through easy navigation panels LED touch screen display.” Prior to the launching was the signing of both parties on its Memorandum of Understanding. OIC-Assistant Regional Director and Concurrent Head of the Western Misamis Oriental Albert E. Gutib, and Technical Support and Services Division Head Atheneus A. Vasallo witnessed the event. The job search kiosk is an information portal housed in an ATM-type, stand-alone equipment, which provides local and abroad job opportunities and other employment related information (TESDA, CHED, PRC, POEA, OWWA and NWPC).


Cultural events, sports highlight Ozamiz City fiestaOZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental -- Cultural events, sport tournaments, dances, beauty pageant and fireworks display are among the activities of the city, on July 16, this year.

by Rutchie C. Aguhob

This, as the city jointly celebrates its 67th foundation and 26th chartered city anniversaries, City Tourism Officer Jaime Tomada said. “The day will be highlighted by the ‘Subayan Keg Subanon’ (story of the people of the river) street dancing and showdown competition at Cotta Square and a military-civic parade, during the day, and live band and fireworks display at night, Tomada said. Meanwhile, Tomada said the Search for Ms. Ozamiz Tourism 2015 had the following activities: Screening of candidates, May 31, swimwear competition, July 4, press conference and city tour, July 6, talent night competition, July 7, Gala Night Dinner, July 9, and coronation, July 15. On the other hand, Tomada said the other activities for the celebrations includes the following: Dance concert 2015, boxing and basketball tournaments and 4th Laya Cooking Contest, July 15, Arts

Painting Contest, Arts Exhibit and July 14 and and Hip-Hop Dance Craze, July 13. Billiard Exhibition Game with Efren ‘Bata’ Reyes and Francisco ‘Diango’ Bustamante, Bikers’ Gran Fondo Misamisnon, Search for the Subayan Keg Subanon Festival Queen 2015, July 12, and grand finals, Tourism Ambassador Singing Competition, July 11. Safe Motherhood “Buntis” Congress and Employees’ Night, July 10, and Job Fair and ‘Diskwento’ Caravan, July 8, medical and dental mission by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to the Ozamiz inmates, July 7, Demonetization and Coin Re-circulation Fun-Run and Zumba Fitness Party, July 5. Also included were the conduct of Barangay Days, July 6-9, Mayor Reynaldo O. Parojinog Golf Tournament at Mt. Malindang Golf Course, July 11-12, and the Arts painting exhibits, July 12-14.


MAMBAJAO, CAMIGUIN -- In commemoration of Mambajao’s 160th founding anniversary on 6 July 2015, the Department of Labor and Employment - region 10 (DOLE-10), in a joint initiative with the Local Government Unit (LGU) hosted a mural painting competition where hue of colors blended to raise awareness on child labor.

Wall of Art: Mural painting against child labor

Twenty students from four high schools in the municipality painted murals now standing proudly in the walls of the old wharf parola where tourists, bystanders and the people of locality will be reminded in taking stand against unjust and inhuman labor conditions experienced by children and youth everywhere, with the featured advocacy, “In a Dream of a Child.” The local theme is inspired from the International Labour Organization’s campaign, “YES to Education. NO to Child Labor.” A ribbon cutting gave signal to the start of the competition that was graced by Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo, Congressman Xavier Jesus D. Romualdo, Mayor Maria Luisa D. Romualdo, Sangguniang Bayan members Raquel B. Ranara, Marivic J. Jansul, DOLE-X Regional

Director Raymundo G. Agravante and Camiguin OIC PFO Head Arlyn Z. Bael. Mayor Romualdo, in an interview, cited the importance of the event and pledged the LGU’s unwavering support towards curbing any incidents of child labor in her municipality and the whole province of Camiguin. “This is an expression and awareness about child labor. Children’s frustrations are poured out through arts. We never knew about child labor until DOLE came in,” she said. She further explained that even though occurrence of child labor is non-existing in the place, the LGU has been making every effort, through DOLE-X to ensure that this is completely eradicated. The whole-day activity is a major output after the island was

by Glenford C. Labial


declared as “Child Labor-free Province” in 2012. Regional Director Raymundo G. Agravante said “One important way to prevent child labor is to ensure that all children are enrolled in schools. By doing this we avoid the pitfalls and the dangers.” Agravante encouraged all in attendance, especially the children to take advantage of all the programs designed by the Department of Education to stimulate their interest in education, including the implementation of the K-12 program, and lauded the role of teachers in the fight against child labor. The LGU has been very proactive to the extent that it has enrolled nearly 100 percent of children in schools, meeting the president’s millennium development goals, as well as creating a child-friendly environment. Meanwhile, participant Jeyvee C. Lequigan, a grade 10 student of Fatima College of Camiguin expressed “Parents should not leave their children for them to be protected and be productive individuals. DOLE-X’s artistic idea makes the old parola look nice and become a local

tourism spot. More people would come to take pictures and post those in the social media.” Nicolas A. Marto, Yumbing National High School coach lauded DOLE for giving the children the avenue to develop their skills and talents. “This is the best activity because you (DOLE) opened doors in facilitating the use of artwork as a means of fighting against child labor. For sure, they (students) will consider this as their lifetime achievement.” Declared winners are Tupsan National High School (4th Place), Fatima College of Camiguin (3rd Place), Mambajao National High School (2nd Place) and Yumbing National High School (1st Place). Winners received P5,000.00; P4,000.00; P3,000.00 and P1,500.00, respectively. Judges include Generoso V. Retor, Oscar Cioco and RD Raymundo G. Agravante.


DAVAO CITY- The first Mindanao Halal Festival opened today (July 15) at the activity center of Abreeza Mall in Davao City. The two-day event spearheaded by Escider, a Halal business invest-ment company will show-case different halal prod-ucts which include food, apparels, cosmetics, personal hygiene prod-ucts, fashion accessories, services and businesses which are halal certified. According to Karla Singson event coordina-tor of the first MHF, one of the highlights of the event is the Halal Food Festival where the public will have the chance to taste and savor Halal food based on regional cuisines here in Mindanao. The first night will be held in Abreeza while the second night (July 16) will be held in Marco Polo Davao. Aside from the food festival other activities include the Qur’an mem-

orization competition and the launch of the amend-ed Halal Ordinance in Davao City. Davao City is the first local government to enact a halal ordinance enacted in 2010. Councilors Maria Belen Acosta of the first district of Davao City and Indigenous Peoples Representative to Davao City’s Sannguniang Pan-glungsod Bai Halila Su-dagar graced the event’s opening. Syed Kamal Reza vice-president of Escidor said he hopes the MHF will gather stakehold-ers and industry players in the Halal industry. He hopes the city and the re-gion will corner a foothold in the global halal indus-try which is estimated to be worth $500- billion. (PIA/RG Alama)

1st Mindanao Halal Festival opens


PWDs fete centers on health concerns

DAVAO CITY – The observance of the 37th National Disability Pre-vention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week this year brings on the advo-cacy on health and wellness con-cerns for PWDs nationwide on July 17-23. In the region, various govern-ment agencies and non-government organizations catering to PWDs have lined up several activities centered on PWDs health awareness to be staged in different areas in the city. Since the focus in the NDPR ob-servance is on health, the Department of Health (DOH-XI) has prepared ad-vocacy endeavors such as cultural show, product exhibit, medical check ups and forums on various health re-lated topics. The forums will tackle specifical-ly on Executive Order No. 417 or the mandate to implement the econom-ic independence program for PWDs, responsible parenthood skills, health and wellness and lectures on basic sign language. Dr. Sharon Valdez, chief of DOH-XI Non-Communicable Diseases divi-sion, said their activities would also include counseling on smoking and tobacco regulation. Valdez urged the PWDs in the region to participate in the activities and avail of the services offered dur-ing the weeklong celebration.

Other featured event would be the first Search for Outstanding PWDs initiated by the Davao-based non-government organization Behind the Rolling Chairs in partnership with the Support the Employment and Liveli-hood of People with Disability. Naprey Almario of Behind the Rolling Chairs said the Mindanao-wide search aims to acknowledge PWD leaders and advocates with outstand-ing works in their chosen fields and serve as role models to other PWDs and their communities. Almario said there are eight nomnees coming from different places like Davao City, Cotabato City, Davao Oriental and Bukidnon, who are vying for the search. The awarding rites will be held in the afternoon of July 17 at SM City Annex, Ecoland, Davao City. Davao City’s magician and multi-awarded chess player James Infiesto, who is also president of the Associa-tion of Differently-Abled Persons in the city, urged the public to celebrate with the PWDs during the NDPR week. Meanwhile, the DOH-XI also em-phasizes on major undertakings for PWDs such as mental health program, lifestyle-related programs, blindness screening program, assistive devices assistance and counseling for PWDs and senior citizens. (PIA-XI/Carina L. Cayon)


Koronadal gains more support for international folklore festBy:Danilo E Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, July 16 -- More local government units have pledged to back up the Koronadal Inter-national Folklore Festival “Piyesta Kolon Datal” next month.

Juliet Amido, city information officer, confirmed in an interview that the city gov-ernment appealed for support from local chief executives for its hosting of the international event in the recent meeting of the Mayor’s League of the Philippines – South Cotabato Chapter.

“At present, those who have pledged sup-port are the local chief executives of the municipalities of Lake Sebu, Norala, Tupi, Sto Niño, Tupi, Polomolok and Tantangan,” Amido said, adding that the city government expects the remaining LGUs in the province will also join the event.

Earlier, Mayor Lina Montilla expressed support to LGU Koronadal when Mayor Pe-ter Miguel and other festival officials went to Tacurong City to conduct an orientation on the international folklore festival.

In a separate interview, South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes emphasized


the provincial government is with the city LGU in this mo-mentous event.

Hundreds of performers from 12 countries are coming to Koro-nadal City on August 9 – 18 for the CIOFF International Folk-lore Festival that will showcase arts, folklore and culture of the represented countries, namely: Armenia, Slovenia, Russia, Sri Lanka, Mexico, Turkey, Poland, Japan, Indonesia, Chinese Tai-pei, India, and Thailand.

Four Filipino cultural groups: UP Filipiniana Dance Troupe, PNU Kislap Sining, Barangay Folk Dance Group and ECD Dance

Company of the Philippines, along with the Koronadal Hinug-yaw Cultural Dance Troupe will also be highlighted in the event.

The Koronadal International Folklore Festival dubbed “Piyesta Kolon Datal” will open on Au-gust 10 at the South Cotabato Sports Complex.

The opening ceremony will be followed by twice-a-day 2-hour performances: 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. matinee show at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center and 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. gala show at the Rizal Park.


Several pocket performances have also been set at KCC Mall of Marbel, Gaisano Grand Mall, Ace Centerpoint and the Koro-nadal City Public Market.

Amido elaborated that in ad-dition to the presentations in Koronadal City, participants will travel to nearby municipalities and Tacurong City to perform and conduct lecture demon-strations to orient locals of their traditional songs and dances.

“On this, the partner local government units will provide the venue for the performers as well as the audience who will attend the lecture demo,” she said.

Foreign visitors are also sched-uled to visit popular tourist des-tinations during their free times.

In his message, Koronadal Mayor Peter Miguel said: “Pi-yesta Kolon Datal highlights the unique and distinct culture of our indigenous people, the B’laans, and we want to share this with the world.”

The B’laan culture will be showcased on April 18.

Koronadal’s hosting of an in-ternational folklore festival un-der the auspices of the Interna-tional Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts (CIOFF) is the first in the Phil-

ippines.This became possible after

Koronadal’s Piyesta Kolon Datal gained CIOFF recognition as an associate member and country representative.

In October, 2014, Mayor Miguel went to Bautzen Germany to attend the 44th CIOFF World Congress and General Assembly where he signified intention to host the CIOFF 2015 Interna-tional Folklore Festival.

The event is part of the year-long celebration of the 75th Foundation Anniversary of the City of Koronadal that began on January 10.


Two state-of-the-art buildings in NorthCot now completedBy:Shahana Joy E. Duerme

KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, July 16--- The provincial gov-ernment conducted last week the blessing and dedication of two newly constructed state of the art buildings situated in the com-pound of the provincial capitol.

The Centennial Pavilion, also called “The Basket” has a total project cost of P40 million while the Provincial Museum, dubbed as “Museyo ng Cotabato” has a total project cost of P27 million and both were locally funded out

of the savings of the provincial government.

Called as “The Basket”, our Centennial Pavilion symbolizes North Cotabato as the food bas-ket of SOCCSKSARGEN region. Governor Emmylou Mendoza


said adding that it will serve as venue for exhibits showcasing agriculture and other important products of the province.

It will now be the location of food, farm, art and cultural ex-hibits and presentations of the forthcoming Kalivungan Festival of the province on September 1, 2015 as it celebrates its 101 years.

The building is designed in such a way that it would ably accom-modate exhibitors with a wide range of products or services to offer.

On the other hand, the gover-nor noted that the “Museyo ng Cotabato” is a structure that will

embrace the diverse cultures of the people of North Cotabato.

Artifacts in the province es-pecially those that were handed from one family to another or from generation to generation within the last 100 years will be displayed in this facility.

Dr. Antonio R. Montalvan, re-nowned anthropologist and the current Vice President of the In-ternational Council of Museums – Philippine Chapter acts as con-sultant of the provincial govern-ment in its endeavor to put up a “life-changing” museum.

The construction of the two buildings commenced in 2013 and were results of Governor


Mendoza’s vision to put up ad-ditional structures and facilities inside the capitol which will pro-vide better and quality venues for socio-economic development and service

Both designs were conceptual-ized by Architect Jeffrey C. Palo-mo of Antipas town.

“With the addition of these new buildings at the capitol, the provincial government fur-

ther underlines its duties and re-sponsibilities to the constituents in carrying out the advocacy of “Serbisyong Totoo”.

The Centennial Pavilion and the Provincial Museum will be opened to the public and opera-tional as soon as the preparations and other groundwork will be fin-ished in just a matter of time.

TACURONG CITY, Sultan Kudarat, July 16 -- Tacurong City’s flagship community outreach project City Hall sa Barangay continues to gain more support from the private sector.

High school alumni join Tacurong’s City Hall sa Barangay

Last Friday, July 10, over 200 alumni Notre Dame of Ta-curong High School Batch 1990 trooped to Barangay EJC Montil-la to join the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tacurong in the City Hall sa Barangay, pioneering what could be the start of part-nership with graduates desiring to give something back to their hometown.

The partnership in the city’s outreach program was one of the activities of graduates of

Notre Dame of Tacurong for Boys and Girls in time with their 25th Alumni Homecoming.

As sponsor of the LGU in the conduct of the project, Batch 90 provided a counterpart fund of P20,000 used in the purchase of medicines and vitamins for the medical services.

Dr. Remo-tito Aguilar and Dr. Jocelyn Tacot-Tadena, two of the batch members, joined the city’s medical staff in the conduct of free consultations and check-up


while Dr. Gil Orpiano served in the dental services. Other batch members assisted in various LGU services.

Three sacks of rice and several packs of grocery items were also raffled to the clients as part of the alumni’s activity. The batch also provided a lechon (roast pork) for lunch of the LGU work-ing committees.

According to City Administrator Eduardo Nicolo, more than 800 hundred residents of EJC Mon-tilla benefited from the City Hall sa Barangay project. More than fifty percent of the total number of clients availed of the medical and dental services.

Several batch members ex-pressed their admiration on how systematic the project was being undertaken. The school gym of Maria Montilla Elementary School was virtually converted into a city hall where each office had its own working area.

Renee Rose Ebon-Cuento, a US-based Tacurongnon, said she was amazed at the smoothness of how the services were extend-ed to the clients. “Everything was organized. In the dental services for example, all the tools were in place and the dentists have their efficient assistants too. It’s as if you’re inside a dental clinic”, she

said. Joining the City Hall sa Ba-rangay project was an amazing experience for me”.

Mayor Lina Montilla lauded Batch 90’s partnership in the project. “This could just be the beginning of several partnerships not only with Batch 90 but with other alumni batches too”, Mayor Montilla said.

City Hall sa Barangay, also dubbed mobile city hall, aims to bring the services of the LGU closer to the people especially in the countryside.

Started in 2011, the project is one of the best practices of the LGU and has already been rep-licated by other LGUs like Koro-nadal City.

In May, a Nigeria-based Ce-buano doctor also joined the City Hall sa Barangay and ex-tended free medical services.

Dr. Donald Martin Melgar was visiting a classmate from medi-cal college days here when he was invited to take part of the out-reach program. (LGU Tacurong City Information/DEDoguiles-PIA 12)


DOH bares initial epidemiological report on food poisoning case in SurSur

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The team from the Department of Health (DOH) who were sent here to conduct an investigation on the food poisoning case caused by durian candies in several towns towns in the province bared their initial epidemiological report on Wednesday during the exit conference held at the Provincial Governor’s Office Conference Room, this city.

By: NGBT


Based on their initial findings, it points to “staphylococcus” bacteria as the most likely cause of the illness. The DOH team who conducted the investigation are composed of the following members: Training officer Vikki Carr de los Reyes, MD; Flor D’Lyn Gallardo, RN; Sheryl Racelis, MD; Glindel Salilin, RN; and Richelle Feliscuzo, PESU staff. The team clarified that the final result is still pending as of this time since it is still on the process of thorough examination at UP Manila and Insights Laboratories Co. Based on the data gathered, a total of 1,515 patients were recorded from Marihatag District Hospital in Marihatag town, Lianga District Hospital in Lianga town, Rural Health Unit of

Cagwait town, Cortes Community Hospital in Cortes town and Adela Sera Ty Memorial Medical Center (ASTMMC) in Tandag City. Of the 1,515 patients, 1,178 were outpatient while 337 are recorded admitted but most of them were discharged on the following day. Accordingly, there were two food manufacturers identified, all in Davao City based on the investigation and evidences confiscated by the authorities from the suspects. Police Inspector Paul Paden of the Police Provincial Office in Surigao del Sur revealed that cases were already filed against the seven vendors (five in Cagwait MPS and two in Tandag City) and Janet Aquino, the registered owner of JJCM Food Product


DTI Surigao Norte intensifies consumer education advocacy campaign

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – To help ordinary consumers get the best value for money, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte provincial office intensifies its consumer education advocacy activities at the grassroots level.

Since January of this year, a total of 35 consumer advocacy activities were already conducted ranging from the distribution of consumer education flyers up to the conduct of consumer briefings and seminars. A total of over 700 individuals and households were being reached in the process in various communities throughout the province. According to provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan, this effort has to be done consistently to educate the consumers on the rights and responsibilities more so with the

inflow of numerous products in the local market. Locally produced as well as imported products are expected to flood the local market as economic integration of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will come into full effect, and wholesalers and retailers continue to import consumer goods from other countries in the world like the US, China, Japan and Korea among others. DTI also reminds to keep oneself be updated and informed on consumer advisories released by various government agencies

By: Rodrigo R. Matabaran


P720M concrete bridge in SurSur town set for soft-opening By: Greg Tataro Jr

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – At long last, the 320-meter long Tago-La Paz concrete bridge traversing the Tago river in Tago town, 8 kilometers south, this city, with a total appropriation of P720 million, is slated for soft-opening at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 16.

to make appropriate purchasing decision. The agency encourages consumers to be watchful and vigilant in choosing and using products to ensure their safety and well-being. Quality has to be given due consideration first while at the same time trying to have it at affordable cost. As producers and manufacturers are using different

media to advertise and sell their products, consumers should not rely on one source, and if possible must verify and validate the overall quality, functionality, efficiency and efficacy of certain items. One has to be a wise consumer to be able to get the best value for money every time we make a purchase.

District Engr. Joseph Calderon of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) First Engineering District Office here confirmed the long-awaited event with a simple program split into three: Blessing by Rev. Fr. Apolinar Orozco via a drive thru; Invocation, then Pambansang Awit to be followed by the welcome address of Tago

Mayor Rogelio Pimentel and the Briefing/Overview of Project by DPWH Caraga regional director Danilo Versola. To cap the program are the messages of First District Congressman Philip Pichay, Governor Johnny Pimentel, and Usec. Romeo Momo, respectively. However, the public works district chief clarified his office


has nothing to do with such a massive infrastructure project, citing that supervisory powers rest on DPWH Caraga Regional Office. Meanwhile, based on some significant details as reflected on the invitation program sent to Governor Johnny Pimentel, and likewise according to DPWH Caraga Regional Office Construction Section Engr. Maribeth Burgos, the bridge construction started in 1991 through the supervision of DPWH Regional Office XI when the province was still under the said region. But upon creation of Caraga in 1995, where the province of Surigao del Sur now belongs, DPWH Caraga Regional Office took over the same authority on the resumption of construction of the bridge in 1997 with an initial appropriation of P12 million followed by P22 million in 1998. Lamentably, everything came to a complete stop afterwards. But, by a stroke of luck, after seven long years of being a “white elephant,” construction came to life in 2005 with P20 million funding followed by the same amount in 2006. Since then, annual appropriations in a much bigger bulk—P30M,

P110M, P96M, P150M, P200M—were poured in until 2011. But, then, again, two succeeding years came on empty, until finally the release of P60 million in 2014. It can be recalled that the Aquino administration has vowed to complete all pending major infrastructure projects before its term ends in 2016, hence the lion’s shares of funding releases for the final completion of Tago-La Paz bridge. With this completion, travel time of commuters here going down south or vice-versa is, at least, half an hour shorter, it was learned.



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One Mindanao - July 16, 2015

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