One Mindanao - June 11, 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

NorthCot’s ‘Serbisyong Totoo’ continues to benefit far-flung villages

DOH launches Hi-5 program in ARMM

Army to announce DavNor as peaceful and dev’t. ready on June 19

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DOLE Caraga scholar now PESO Manager

Manufacturing sector outlook remains upbeat in 2015 – NEDA

Bangsamoro passage doesn’t need Charter change, lawmaker

Bananas helps regulate blood pressure, says FNRI-DOST

20th Migrant Workers Day brings merriment to OFW families

AgNor guv to lead 117th PHL Independence, 48th charter day

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By: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

By: IEroy

By: Alma L. Tingcang

By: Jean Mary Ronquillo

By: Nora Lanuza Molde

Cover Story

CARAGA

WESTERN NORTHERN

INFOCUS

SOCCSKSARGENSOUTHERN

NATIONAL

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DTI, NTC forge MOA on Fair Trade Laws

Shoebox Project continues in CDO

By: Elvira G. Redublado

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By: Iris Asis

Contents

By: Michael Uy

4 June 11, 2015One Mindanao

I wouldn’t be able to finish my studies if not

for the SPES program of DOLE.”

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Cover Story

DOLE Caraga scholar now PESO Manager

By: Iris Asis

5June 11, 2015 One Mindanao

This was the touching statement of Junrey Escobal, now a 34 years old, living at Pantao, Claver, Surigao del Norte. Junrey is the only boy among the four children of Mr. and Mrs. Columbus R. Escobal. His father is a fisherman while his mother, a housewife.

Eager to finish his college education, he sought help from the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE’s) Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) program to subsidize his tuition fee from 2002 to 2006.

“It wasn’t easy for me, sometimes I go to school without money for food, but I managed to finish my AB English degree at NEMCO (Northeastern Mindanao Colleges) in Surigao City. Thanks to DOLE,” he stressed.

He was immediately hired at Platinum Group of Mining Companies as the community organizer for three years.

Claver Mayor Eddie P. Gokiangkee saw his potential and tasked him to settle labor issues in Claver. Completing the duty effortlessly, the good mayor designated him as the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) manager in Claver.

Since 2012, Escobal is among the top performing PESO managers in Caraga.

“Being a SPES beneficiary truly helped me a lot not only financially but also in my current job. I am now the one implementing the program”, he giggled.

“As the PESO manager of Claver, I make sure that the selection of SPES beneficiaries are for those who truly deserve it,” he added.

He advised the marginalized students to never give up hope in continuing their studies. Help is just around, you just have to open your eyes. DOLE’s SPES Program can help.



Internet voter registration system rolled-out for Filipinos in the Asia -Pacific region

MANILA - The Department of Foreign Affairs - Overseas Voting Secretariat (DFA-OVS) announced that effective 10 June 2015, the Commission on Elections in collaboration with the DFA-OVS has rolled out iREHISTRO for implementation by the following Foreign Service Posts (FSPs) in the Asia Pacific region: Philippine Embassies in Bangkok, Brunei, Canberra, Dhaka, Dili, Hanoi, Islamabad, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, New Delhi, Phnom Penh, Seoul, Singapore, Vientiane, Wellington, Yangon plus the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong, Macau SAR, Osaka and Sydney.


iREHISTRO is an online system that provides another way of accomplishing forms for voter registration related process. Prospective applicants still have to appear personally at Foreign Service Posts or Mobile/Field registration sites, to sign and submit their duly accomplished printed form, and for biometrics capturing. In addition, the processed applications still have to be approved by the Resident Election Registration Board (RERB).

Commissioner Al A. Parreño, who conceptualized and is in charge of the COMELEC’s implementation of iRehistro, offered the technology to the Overseas Voting Secretariat (DFA-OVS) last September 2014. As a result, a pilot project was initiated with the Philippine Embassy in Madrid, Spain, in November 2014, and was successfully concluded in January 2015.

Based on Madrid PE’s

recommendation, with a favorable endorsement from DFA-OVS, the COMELEC approved the implementation of iREHISTRO for the entire Foreign Service. Regional training for Voter Registration Machine Operators in the Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and Africa and Americas region has just been successfully completed.

Overseas Filipinos in the Asia Pacific, Americas, Europe, Middle East and Africa region now have the option of filling up the forms from the comfort of their homes, workplace, internet café, or anywhere they have access to reliable internet connection. The optional appointment feature of the system allows for better time management since it provides them an easy way to schedule their personal appearance at a FSP or Mobile/Field registration site.

FSP’s also benefit from


iREHISTRO. The optional appointment system if and when used can accurately inform the Post on how many registrants to expect on a given day, thus giving them a heads up on how to adjust for the walk-ins. In addition, planning for outreach and Akyat Barko activities is made easier by the advance relatively accurate head count. Efficiency is enhanced because of the faster processing time resulting to potentially more registrants per day, with higher “customer satisfaction”.

All Filipino citizens who expect to be in the Asia Pacific,

Americas, Europe, Middle East and Africa during the thirty day (09 April – 09 May 2016) overseas voting period for the 2016 Presidential Elections, at least 18 years old on 09 May 2016, not otherwise disqualified by law and who would like to be among the first overseas Filipinos to become part of this historical evolution of the Philippine overseas electoral process, may now go to www.irehistro.com or www.comelec.gov.ph to access the iREHISTRO System to register as an overseas voter. The voter registration period ends on 31 October 2015. Register now! (DFA)


Manufacturing sector outlook remains upbeat in 2015 – NEDAMANILA - Production of the manufacturing sector increased slightly in April 2015 but the outlook remains upbeat with expectations of robust private consumption and public spending, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). In the Philippine Statistics Authority’s Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries (MISSI) released Wednesday, the manufacturing sector’s Volume of Production Index (VoPI) slightly grew by 1.4 percent in April 2015, lower than the 16.1-percent expansion last month and the 10.8-percent growth a year ago.

Meanwhile, the sector’s Value of Production (VaPI) contracted by 4.2 percent in the period, down from the 9.7-percent growth in the previous month and the 10.9-percent expansion in April 2014.

“Despite the April 2015 numbers, investors remain confident of the growth prospects. Proof of this is the recent expansion of Taiheiyo Cement Philippines,

Inc.’s facilities in San Fernando, Cebu to boost productive capacity in anticipation of higher demand for construction materials,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.

“A number of Japanese firms are also poised to relocate to the country. In addition to the supply of skilled labor, some firms also want to maximize duty-free benefits in the Philippines under the European Union’s Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus,” he added.

Meanwhile, average capacity utilization remained at 83.2 percent during the period. The basic metals subsector had the highest average capacity utilization at 88.8 percent in April


2015, slightly higher than the 88.5 percent last year.

“Since basic metals are among the backbone industries with high forward linkages, its high average capacity utilization will enhance firms’ capacity to respond to the increasing demand of other subsectors, particularly the rapid growth in private construction and the expected realization of government infrastructure projects,” said Balisacan, who is NEDA Director-General.

Among the surveyed firms, 26.4 percent operating at full capacity (90-100%), 55.3 percent at (70-89%) and 18.3 percent operating at below (70%) capacity.

The chemicals and tobacco industry sustained their strength for the period, countering the slowdown in the production of food and petroleum products. Also, leather, printing, basic metals, and machinery (except electrical) registered double-digit

growth. However, Balisacan said that despite the positive outlook, the adverse effects of El Niño and uncertainties in the global market still pose significant risks.

“The government must encourage more value-adding activities, especially those that increase the linkage between agriculture and manufacturing. Production would need to diversify further to areas and subsectors, for this to be realized, an efficient transport and logistics network should be put in place,” he said.

He also reiterated the country’s need continuously undertake efforts in improving business climate, address its long-standing power security issues, and diversifying the country’s range of products.

“We need to enhance the ability of SMEs to participate in regional and global markets, in line with the ASEAN economic


integration, and pursue diversification of export products and markets, given uncertainties in global demand. This is vital to sustain the global competitiveness of the country and survive the low demand from the country’s top export markets,” said Balisacan.


Bangsamoro passage doesn’t need Charter change, lawmaker says

MANILA – Sulu Rep. Tupay T. Loong, vice-chair of the House Ad Hoc Committeer on the Bangsamoro Basic Law, said that it is not necessary to amend the 1987 Constitution to accommodate the creation of the Bangsamoro as suggested by former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno.


“House Bill No. 5811 already responds to the questions about the constitutionality and inclusivity in the Bangsamoro law. This substitute bill does not require amending the Constitution. Amending the Constitution would give more than what was agreed upon by the government with the MILF,” explained Loong.

The House Ad Hoc Committee passed HB 5811, also known as the Basic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BLBAR), to serve as a substitute bill to the BBL or House Bill No. 4994. The new proposed measure carries more than 90 amendments, deletions, and revisions to remove possible constitutional infirmities.

Ad hoc committee chair and Cagayan de Oro City Representative Rufus B. Rodriguez announced last week that the committee would ask President Benigno S. Aquino III to certify the new bill as urgent.

Congress’ plenary debates started Monday last week but were always cut short due to the lack of quorum. Rodriguez said he already brought up the issue to House Speaker and Quezon City Representative Feliciano

Belmonte, Jr.

Loong cautioned against further delays in the legislative process concerning the BBL, as it was part of the peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

“We are pushing its passage in the House plenary, and we hope our colleagues in the Senate, particularly Senator Ferdinand Marcos, would see this is an appropriate bill to be passed into law to fulfill our commitments in the peace agreement with the MILF,” Loong noted.

The Sulu lawmaker insisted that the Bangsamoro autonomous region could be established without amending the current Constitution.

“The charter change being pushed forward only concerns economic provisions. It does not include the Bangsamoro because we could already approve a law for the replacement of the ARMM with the Bangsamoro that adheres already to the Constitution as we have done with HB 5811,” Loong added. (PPMB)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Some 30 college students here who are scholars under the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples’ (NCIP) Education Assistance Program (EAP) for Indigenous Peoples (IPs) attended the second leg of journalistic writing workshop spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and US Embassy in Manila.

Zambo City EAP grantees undertake journalistic writing workshop By Emmanuel D. Taghoy


“We help the IP youth develop their knowledge and skills in writing so that they may be able to effectively write their tribes’ stories and expressed ideas in their own point of view,” Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga of PIA-9 said. In support of Director Edaga’s statement, Information Center Manager Felipo David G. Malcampo of PIA-Zamboanga City also told the participants who belong to Subanon, Yakan, Kolibugan, Sama-Bangingi and Bajau tribes, that “new minds will have to replace the old generation soon and this is the reason your writing skills are being honed.” The IP journalistic writing workshop, which is on its second year of implementation, hopes to enhance the journalistic talents of IP college students particularly in writing news stories and editorial. Topics on climate change as well as the government’s efforts to attain lasting peace in Mindanao have also been integrated in the lectures.

Mr. Abdurasid Buddick, NCIP-9 regional EAP focal person reminded the participants that as NCIP scholars, they must maintain a weighted average not lower than 80% to keep their scholarship and to graduate from their chosen courses. “You are very lucky to have availed of this program. Do not give us a reason to remove your name out from the master list,” said Buddick. Covering the entire Zamboanga Peninsula region, the same training will be held in Zamboanga Sibugay on June 17-18, Zamboanga del Norte on June 24-25 and Zamboanga del Sur on July 1-2. The first leg of the training was conducted in Isabela City, Basilan Province on June 3-4.


IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – One piece of banana a day restores the balance of potassium in the body. So make it a habit to include banana in your daily meals.

Bananas helps regulate blood pressure, says FNRI-DOST

By Alma L. Tingcang

Bananas, one of the most popular fruits among people of all origins can be available fresh year-round and much cheaper compared with other tropical fruits. It flourishes well under tropical moisture-rich, humid low-lying farmlands. In a press release, the Food and Research Institute- Department of Science and Technology said bananas are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Potassium is a mineral that is important for controlling the body’s fluid balance. It is also needed for muscle contraction, transmission of nerve impulses, and the proper functioning of the body’s heart and kidneys. Potassium helps regulate water balance and blood pressure in cells, together with other minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium. Moreover, aside from being a good source of vitamins and

minerals, banana is also a natural remedy for a number of illnesses and conditions. Ripe banana relieves diarrhea, whereas the unripe banana relieves constipation. Banana is highly recommended for patients suffering from high blood pressure because of its potassium content. The fresh leaves of banana are also used as bed spreads for bed ridden patients to avoid bedsores. They are classified either as dessert bananas or as green cooking bananas. The ripe banana is popularly served as a dessert. It is a delicious addition to fruit salads or simplyeaten out of hand. Overripe bananas make excellent breads, cookies, muffins and cakes. They make attractive garnish in ice cream. Unripe or green bananas are used in cooking.Unripe bananas can be fried, boiled, baked or made into chips.

Peace conversation clarifies misconceptions on BBL

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Most of the misconceptions about the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) was clarified during the Mindanao Peace Conversations held Monday, June 8, at Mindanao University of Science and Technology, this city.

by Kim Namocatcat

Undersecretary Maria Cleofe Gettie C. Sandoval of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said everything in the BBL is consistent to the 1987 Philippine Constitution. She said Article X, Section 15 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides for the creation of autonomous regions in Muslim


Mindanao and in the Cordilleras consisting of provinces, cities, municipalities, and geographical areas sharing common and distinctive historical and cultural heritage, economic and social structures. Further, the proposed ministerial form of government in the Bangsamoro is allowed under the Philippine Constitution. Article VII of the proposed BBL states that the Bangsamoro government will be parliamentary in form where the legislative and executive powers will be exercised by the Bangsamoro Parliament and Cabinet, respectively. Sandoval also shed light to the rumored P70B pork barrel for Bangsamoro. She said the Bangsamoro government will only have a total of P35 billion for its first year to be allocated for economic development, salaries for teachers and health workers and other expenses will be used for public education and health. Local government units in the proposed Bangsamoro will still receive their internal revenue allotments. She also reiterated that the Bangsamoro Police will still form part of the Philippine National Police (PNP). It will be set up as a regional command of the

PNP similar to all other regional police commands in the country. The recruitment, training and promotion of personnel as well as the acquisition of firearms will remain under the PNP’s jurisdiction. MILF will not automatically become part of the Bangsamoro Police. They have to apply and qualify as individuals to become part of the police force, she added. Sandoval further pointed out that the Shari’ah Law proposed under the Bangsamoro Justice System will only apply to Muslims. The Mindanao Peace Conversations was organized by the TULAY KALINAW SA MINDANAW in partnership with the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) and Regional Development Council (RDC) of Northern Mindanao. The gathering was participated by RPOC Chair and Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno, the volunteers from non-government organizations and civil society organizations, representatives from the local government units and national line agencies, as well as from the religious, academe and youth sectors.


DTI, NTC forge MOA on Fair Trade Laws

ILIGAN CITY -- The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) approved in May 2015, heightens the agencies’ campaign to protect the consumers from deceptive, unfair and unconscionable sales acts and practices.

by Elvira G. Redublado

Ruel B. Paclipan, provincial director, DTI Iligan City/Lanao del Norte, said that the MOA specifies the delineation of mandates between DTI and NTC, yet the two \agencies collaborated in the task of enhancing awareness and compliance to relevant fair trade laws that may affect business operator in the electronics sector. As part of their campaign, a sectoral briefing was conducted to retailers of cellphones and accessories as well as dealers of computers slated May 21-22, 2015 at the DTI offices in Iligan City and in Tubod, Lanao del Norte. One of the crucial topics of the briefing was on the NTC’s rules and regulations for businesses engaged in the distribution, retail, repair and maintenance of electronic gadgets like radio transceivers, cell phones, routers, computers and the like products that uses radio waves.

No person, firm, company, association or corporation shall construct, install, establish, or operate a radio station within the Philippine Islands without having first obtained a franchise therefore from the Philippine Legislature. Engr. Joel D. Siladan, officer-in-charge of NTC field office in Iligan City emphasized that all businesses related to said products have to secure NTC permits from their office to legalize operation as prescribed by RA 3846 and Memorandum Circulars, MC No. 08-08-20004A and MC No. 07-08-2004. Republic Act No. 3846, an act providing for the regulation of radio stations and radio communications in the Philippine Islands, and for other purposes. Meanwhile, DTI-LDN staff, discussed to the participants the “Service Excellence” as


Shoebox Project continues in CDOCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) - Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Office Field Operations Office-Mindanao Cluster 2 (ICT Office FOO-MC2) participated in the Shoe Box Project initiated by the Cagayan de Oro (CDO) ICT Business Council.

The shoebox (intended for one student) contains school supplies such as papers, pencils, crayons and other school-related items. The office donated a portion of the remaining number of required boxes to the Council. The ICT Council, which spearheaded the activity, made a second visit to Fr. William Masterson SJ Elementary School at Masterson Avenue, Xavier Heights, Upper Balulang, Cagayan de Oro City on 1 June 2015 for the distribution of the boxes. Sol P. Acheron, School Principal, received the 33 shoeboxes from Stephanie P. Caragos of Syntactics, Inc. and the President of CDO ICT Business Council, together with Jonathan

Arvin Adolfo, the Executive Director of the Council and some staff members. The Shoe Box Project, also dubbed as “My Dream in a Shoe Box”, is a continuation of a similar activity done last May 14, 2015 at Fr. William Masterson SJ Elementary School which was spearheaded by the CDO ICT Business Council in partnership with Philippine Call Center Institute-CDO and Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines. The activity comprised of the distribution of around 200 shoeboxes and a feeding program afterwards. On its 6th year already, the Shoe Box Project has also been implemented in other areas of the country. (ICT Office FOO-MC2)

a way of sustaining good customer relation and improving profitability. Likewise, a briefing on the different fair trade laws

as well as consumer rights and responsibilities were directly addressed to the store owners.

DepEd-XI explains sus-pension of Salugpungan schools

DAVAO CITY-An officer of the Department of Education 11 assured that classes in areas where the operation of the Salugpongan Ta’ Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Center was suspended will open up on July 1 run by duly-recognized public teachers. Jenielito Atillo, spokesperson of DepEd 11 said that with the delay of the opening of class-es, the calendar of these schools might be extend-

ed be-yond the s c h e d -uled va-c a t i o n days. H e said 25 teachers will be deployed in the af-f e c t e d areas in

Davao del Norte, Com-postela Valley and Davao Oriental and will cater to pupils on a multi-grade approach. “Teachers will im-part knowledge to various grade levels in one class-room setting,” Atillo said. He asserted that the Salugpongan Community Learning Centers failed to renew their permit to op-erate for the school-year 2015-2016, prompting the DepEd to stop its op-eration. Atillo said it is use-less for pupils to continue their education to an


entity not recognized by the DepEd since their records will not be hon-ored as they move up or transfer to other schools. The suspension of the Salug-pungan Learning Centers prompted the United Nations Children’s Fund to conduct an investigation on the clos-ing of schools which impacts primarily on children. Atillo said the DepEd does not recognize the allegations labelled against the Salugpungan Learning Center. He said that the DepEd only as-serts its authority to private schools which fail to secure renewal of gov-ernment recognition or permit.

“The Salugpungan schools are barred to operate because they failed to renew their permit for the school year 2015-2016. Under the regula-tions, permits must be renewed one year prior to the school year that they will be operating on. Based on the DepEd Order 21, 2014, the renewal of permits must be done on August 1 to September 30 of the preceding year,” Atillo said. He said that at present, the De-partment of Education has not re-ceived any renewal document coming from the Salugpungan schools. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

facts and figures

P400 The cost of an OL Kit, used to kill dengue-carrying aedes aegypti mosquito larva. the kit is given for free to the public.


Army to announce DavNor as peaceful and dev’t. ready on June 19

Davao del Norte - 1003rd Infantry Battalion Deputy Commander Col. Ricardo Nepomuceno bared earlier today during the AFP-PNP Press Corps Southern Mindanao Press Conference at Task Force Davao Center, Davao City that the mili-tary is gearing up for the declara-tion of whole province of Davao del Norte as peaceful and develop-ment ready on June 19. “We are now finalizing the pro-cess of the declaration of Davao del Norte as peaceful and development ready,” Col. Nepomuceno disclosed that the declaration will be held during the Serbisyo Caravan of the Associa-tion of Regional Executives of the Na-tional Agencies (ARENA) in Region XI on June 18-19 at Sitio Igang, Brgy. Dagohoy, Talaingod. Nepomuceno clarified that the declaration did not mean that the whole province is insurgency free. “Of course there are still rem-nants of the insurgents in the area but the declaration means that we already eradicated their politico-military sys-tem in the area; we have means to insulate it preventing its comeback; and the armed groups are reduced to a minimum level,” he said. He also emphasized that the

mayors, the barangay captains and the community leaders verified this declaration and expressed support to the government. “The communities in the popu-lated area are no longer supportive to the armed groups – support in terms of logistics, intelligence and manpow-er; but they (insurgents) are still in the outskirts,” he said. Nepomuceno also stressed that the military will still pursue those in-surgents in the outskirts. “Since they are no longer in the populated area, our operation won’t affect any civilian in the community.” Nepomuceno also disclosed that they invited secretaries of the na-tional agencies to attend the ARENA Caravan. “Hopefully, they would find time to see the situation in the area espe-cially those agencies, which services are needed most by the community,” he said. (PIA11, Michael Uy)

More farmers to benefit from South Cotabato pushes greening of roadsidesBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato. June 11 -- Some 288 kilometers of national roads in South Cotabato are being targeted for greening and beautification, this year.

The Department of Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine League of Lo-cal Environment and Natural Resources Of-ficers - South Cotabato recently signed a memorandum of agreement that would lead to implementation of Urban Greening Program in the province.

As indicated in the memorandum, the urban greening activity ornamental plants will be planted in both sides of national roads in the province with a combined length of 288 kilometers.

PLLENRO-SC serves as program con-tractor with support from local govern-ment units and other stakeholders.

Once implemented, the program would result in planting of pre-determined or-namental plants along national highways in the jurisdiction of each local government units.

Apart from greening the roadsides, the ornamental plant are also intended to beau-tify the national highway.


Cabellero, adelfa and euge-nia will be planted in the juris-diction of the City of Koronadal; golden shower and bougainvillea in Polomolok ; bougainvillea (in-ternational white and pink-white combination) and pandakaki in Tampakan; and bougainvillea in Tupi.

Meawhile, palm and bougain-villea will be planted in Banga; caballero and bougainvillea in Norala; bougainvillea, panda-kaki (yellow and green), eugenia and gumamela in Sto. Nino; eu-genia in T’boli; bougainvillea (in-ternational white) in Lake Sebu; red palm in Tantangan; and white bougainvillea, gumamela, Eugenia, foxtail palm and royal palm in Surallah.

As agreed, DENR will initial-

ly download 15 percent of the fund to PLLENRO for social mo-bilization.

The signing of the memo-randum of agreement was held during the monthly meeting of the PLLENRO-SC on May 26 in Tboli.

Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PEN-RO) Mama Samaon signed the MOA on behalf of DENR 12 – PENRO while T’boli Municipal En-vironment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO) Julian Asion Jr. signed on behalf of PLLENRO-SC as its president. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12 with report from FSuma-gaysay-South Cotabato PIO)


NorthCot’s ‘Serbisyong Totoo’ continues to benefit far-flung villagesBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, June 11--- Eight remote villages in the province are now benefiting from the infra-structure projects recently turned over by the provincial government in line with its ‘Serbisyong Totoo’ advocacy.

These villages include Batasan, Makilala; Kiyaab, Antipas; Sto. Niño, Arakan; Anick, Pigcaway-an Kamada, Magpet and Palma Perez, Pag-asa and New Rizal in Mlang.

The projects consist of a \ single-storey barangay health station worth P1 million for Ba-rangay Batasan; one classroom building worth P700,000 for Ba-rangay Kiyaab; one covered court worth P1.5 million for Barangay Sto. Niño and one multi-purpose building worth P600,000 for Ba-rangay Anick.

On the other hand, Barangay Kamada obtained a covered court worth P2 million while three wa-ter systems amounting to P1.5 million, P600,000 and P700,00 were given to Barangay Palma Perez, Purok 1, Barangay Pag-Asa and Purok Acacia, Barangay New Rizal, respectively.

Governor Emmylou Men-doza disclosed that of the total amount, P5.6 million came from the provincial government, P1 million from the share of the pro-vincial government from the Mt. Apo Geothermal Project – En-ergy Development Corporation while the P2 million came from the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP).

“As government officials, our responsibility goes beyond proj-ect implementations. We see to it that the people will really ben-efit from the fundamental basic services, from water systems to electrifications, from health cen-ters to multi-purpose halls and many other services,” Mendoza stated.

Following the turnovers in the eight villages, the governor not-ed that her administration will carry on with slated infra proj


DOH launches Hi-5 program in ARMM

ects in other areas especially in remote villages.

Mendoza also assured that the Provincial Engineering Office (PEO) is doing its best to finish all scheduled projects for this year especially the rehabilitation and concreting of provincial roads.

Meanwhile, the governor ex-

tended her appreciation for the support of the officials in the province in strengthening proj-ect implementations in North Co-tabato. (SJDuerme-PIA12/JSta.Cruz-N. Cotabato Provincial Gov-ernment)

COTABATO CITY, June 11 – In an aggressive effort to further re-duce mortality rate recorded in the region, the Department of Health in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DOH-ARMM) launched the Universal Health Care High Impact Five (UHC-HI-5) Program, Monday, June 8.

The launching was spearheaded by the region’s health secretary


Kadil Sinolinding Jr. with the at-tendance of DOH Central Office Undersecretary Nemesio Gako and Undersecretary for local health Dr. Enrique Tayag.

The UHC-HI-5 program will focus on the maternal care, infant care, child care, HIV/AIDS (Human Im-muno Deficiency Virus/ Acquired Immuno Defiency Syndrome) and service delivery network.

Based on DOH-ARMM data, 71 maternal mortalities in every 100,000 live birth, 6.62 infants and 10.43 children under five years old in every 1,000 live births were re-corded in 2013 to 2014.

On HIV/AIDS on the other hand, 17 cases were recorded in the re-gion for the first quarter of the cur-rent year.

According to Sinolinding, the program is a region-wide campaign to educate the public regarding this critical health care – from the re-gion down to the provincial and municiapal level up to the baran-gay level.

“The HI-5 is one of the areas of concern of the DOH and it needs full attention during the implemen-tation for positive results and im-pact to the general public,” Sino-linding said.

He added, intensified efforts be-ing exerted to intensify and also improve health facilities to provide better services to beneficiaries es-pecially the marginalized sectors and communities .

Sinolinding stressed the impor-tance of closer coordination and harmonious relationship between the health sector, other line agen-cies and local government units (LGU) in the provinces in the effi-cient and effective iimplementation of HI-5 program in the municipal and barangay level for better re-sults and impact.

“We all know that good health is good politics. If someone is sick, that is not only the problem of the health worker but also a problem of the municipal mayor that is why their cooperation and coordina-tion is important to strengthen our health programs and for the conti-nuity of that program to their re-spective areas,” he stressed.

To provide accurate informa-tion and appropriate interven-tions on these health care issues, the D.I.T.S.i.S.M.I.S (Dapat Ibigay Tama, Sigurado, Sapat at Makabu-luhang Information System), RAID-eRS (Reach and Innovate Desired Rational Score) and DOH Caravan programs were presented and dis-cussed.

The launching held here with the theme, “Sa Tuwid na Daan, Kalu-sugang Tuloy-Tuloy para sa Pamily-ang PINOY”.(IEroy/PBChangco/PIA Cotabato City)


DILG Sec. Roxas turns-over 10 police jeeps to AgNor LGUs

BUTUAN CITY – Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas on Wednesday turned-over 10 multi-purpose police patrol jeeps to the 10 municipalities of Agusan del Norte at the Agusan del Norte provincial capitol covered court this city.

By: Daisy Jane M. Apit


Sec. Roxas said the patrol jeeps are not only for responding to crime situations but for emergencies, as well. Such functions include transporting evacuees or relief goods during disasters.

“These jeeps are of great help. They will be used in patrolling, responding in emergencies and because Agusan Norte is one of the provinces that are usually calamity-stricken, the jeeps shall be used in disaster preparedness and response,” said Roxas.

The local chief executives representing the municipalities of Buenavista, Carmen, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Las Nieves, Magallanes, Nasipit, RTR, Santiago and Tubay were all present in the turn-over ceremony.

“Our DILG Sec. Mar Roxas has been supporting us in our endeavors here in the province, And now, he is here to give us another blessing and we are looking forward for more. Wih this, I am asking all Agusanons to also give our full support to our secretary in whatever he may do for the good of our country,” expressed Agusan del Norte Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell

Amante-Matba. “There are 1,490 total number of cities in the Philippines and each one of them shall receive one patrol jeep. So far, there were already 153 jeeps distributed. And in identifying which cities/municipalities should be given, we ask first the help of the Peace and Order Council and the PNP,” Roxas said.

The next distribution of the patrol police jeeps shall be done October of this year, added Roxas.

Right after the turn-over event, Sec. Roxas proceeded to Bukidnon to also turn-over 20 patrol jeeps.

It was learned that he already distributed patrol jeeps in the provinces of Albay, Sorsogon, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Western Samar, Sarangani and South Cotabato. The procurement and distribution of patrol jeeps is part of the overall strategy to reduce crime not only in the nation’s capital, but in the whole country as well. (With reports from Jennifer Gaitano)


20th Migrant Workers Day brings merriment to OFW families By: Jean Mary Ronquillo

BUTUAN CITY-- Anchored on the theme, “Kasanayan at Husay sa Paggawa, Proteksyon ng Migranteng Manggagawa,” the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) brought merriment and a meaningful commemoration of the 20th Migrant Workers Day to the participating Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families on Sunday, June 7 at Surigao del Norte Provincial Gymnasium, Surigao City.


Around 650 overseas workers and their families coming from various municipalities of Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and Dinagat Islands joined in the celebration intended to pay tribute and recognize the valuable contributions of OFWs to the country’s economy.

The event started with a motorcade around the streets of Surigao City which was participated in by OFW Family Circles (OFC) from various municipalities, local government unit delegates, members of Caraga Association of Recruitment Agencies (CARA) and other social partners.

As an opening salvo of the program, Overseas Workers Welfare Officer V Marieta Lumawag rendered a song of prayer followed by the singing of the national anthem.

Moreover, OWWA Caraga regional director Samuel Madrid read the message of OWWA Administrator Rebecca Calzado recognizing the skills and expertise of OFWs in line with their endeavor overseas which has not only contributed to the development and growth of the country they are serving but

has also greatly helped in the economic growth of their own country through the remittances they send to their families.

According to Madrid, the administrator also expressed that even with the short span of an OFW’s overseas employability, OWWA is there to provide various programs and services in response to their needs as well as of their families.

Nancy Jacinto, regional coordinator of National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) also conveyed the message of Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz citing the DOLE’s interventions and efforts during the last five years in order to protect and promote the rights, benefits and welfare of OFWs, who are treated not only as modern day heroes, but as authentic partners in nation-building.

Honored guests during said event, Surigao City mayor Ernesto Matugas and Surigao del Norte provincial vice-governor Carlos Egay Jr. also expressed their heartwarming greetings to the OFWs and their families who joined in commemorating the migrant workers day.


“It is very heartwarming to be with our modern day heroes and their families, the very people who have sacrificed to be able to help and support their families and in the process also help our country,” articulated Mayor Matugas.

Likewise Egay asserted, “I salute our modern day heroes, the Overseas Filipino Workers for rendering service beyond the usual despite the long distance.”

Among the highlights of the event was the release of financial assistance to OWWA scholars under OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP) and fun-filled activities such as parlor games, raffle draws with exciting

prizes for giveaways including grocery items, household appliances and school supplies.

An entertaining dance competition in which five active OFCs participated, of which the OFC from the municipality of Dinagat was hailed as the champion, showcased not only talents of each group but also their cooperation and creativity.

Likewise, OWWA Caraga’s social partners were recognized for their noteworthy involvement in the event and for facilitating an orientation on livelihood undertakings and encouraging saving for future investments among OFWs and their families.


This year’s Philippine Independence Day celebration is anchored on the theme “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot Kamay na ng Bayan.”

The celebration coincides with the opening of the 48th Araw ng Agusan del Norte with the theme “Kinaiyahan Amomahon, Kulturang Agusanon Tagdon, Katawhang Lumadnon Panggaon,” which

BUTUAN CITY– Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba of the province of Agusan del Norte will lead in the celebration of the 117th Philippine Independence Day on Friday morning, June 12 at the provincial Capitol ground here.

AgNor guv to lead 117th PHL Independence, 48th charter day By: Nora L. Molde


will start on June 12 up to 19, 2015.

Governor Matba along with the provincial officials and employees will take part in the flag raising and wreath-laying ceremonies at the capitol ground. After the ceremonies, a thanksgiving mass will also be held at provincial capitol covered court.

During the opening ceremony, the candidates for the Miss Agusan del Norte search will also be presented. The pageant and coronation night will be held on June 15 at the municipal gymnasium of Nasipit.

On the 13th, a tree planting activity will be held in celebration of the Arbor Day. All provincial employees are required to participate and plant trees to their assigned places.

During the celebration of the province’ charter day, an Agri-Trade Fair/Exhibit will be opened to the public on June 15. Booths and exhibits will be put up by the different offices and municipalities. The Agri-trade fair is a contest to include

‘PINAKA’ or most big contest like that of squash, watermelon, banana “Cardava’, coconut, sweet potato, and milkfish.

On the 17th, governor Matba will also deliver her State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the provincial capitol covered court at 2:00 p.m. and a Barangay Night will be held at 6 p.m.

The province will also celebrate the International Year of Soil in the morning of 18th and awarding of winners for the booth, pinaka, extemporaneous, balak, and the Provincial Gawad Saka Achievers in the afternoon. June 18 was also set as People’s Day’ of the province where a free medical services will be rendered to the Agusanons.

To cap the one-week provincial celebration, an Employees Night where all employees are required to wear casual attires will be held on the 19th. Employees’ attendances are required and will be checked in all the activities of the province.



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One Mindanao - June 11, 2015

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