One Mindanao - March 3, 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

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. 0908-8843404E-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

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

CONTENTSNorthCot pushes veggie gardening

Pantawid beneficiary increases income through ice trading

Zambo. Sur is ZPRAA 2015 champion for high school level

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Sports academy key to quest for gold in sports, says ZamboSur guvBy: Claro A. Lanipa

Infrastructure partnership, major agenda in APEC meeting in Tagaytay

AFP troops seizes BIFF bomb factory in Mamasapano

DTI-Surigao Norte turns over geonets production facility to Claver coop

AFP, PNP forge pact on revitalization of peace, security coordinating center in Lanao NorteEnergy-firm adds up 105 MW to the Mindanao Grid

By: Ryan M. Tapayan

11 By: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

By: Oliver Ross V. Rivera

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2223 BFP-ARMM calls for public support in

observance of Fire Prevention Month

By: Claro A. Lanipa

By: Jerome R. Soldevilla

By: Lorry V. Gabule

Cover Story

CARAGA

WESTERN

NORTHERN

INFOCUS

SOCCSKSARGEN

SOUTHERN

NATIONAL

19 DavNor Gov reiterates trust with security forces to safeguard 2015 Palaro By: Jeanevive Duron-Abangan

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4 MARCH 3, 2015One Mindanao

In the recently concluded 2015 Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) Meet held in Pagadian City, the Zamboanga del Sur delegation

emerged as the over-all champion in the secondary level and second in the elementary level during the four-day competition leading seven other delegations in the region.

By: Claro A. Lanipa

Sports academy key to quest for gold in sports, says ZamboSur guv

5MARCH 3, 2015 One Mindanao

Apparently, this is the product of the Provincial Sports Academy created and established by the provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur under the initiative and strong leadership of Governor Antonio H. Cerilles with the primary purpose of helping develop our potential athletes in the countryside. This program is also being supported

by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), training athletes in the country for future competitions in the local and international level.

Cerilles observed that at the recent ASEAN games wherein the Philippines got only one gold medal that is in cycling, the winner was not locally bred, but an American, though his parents are Filipinos.

To refresh our memories, Cerilles said, “dating back to the

1950’s, we were either second, third in the ASEAN games among 10 member-nations. We came out champion or runner-up, but sad to say the Philippines has lagged behind in the ASEAN games – we are at 7th place, we are just above Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia, other countries have overtaken the Philippines.”

Our country became much more frustrated, when we participated in the Olympic Games and not achieving even a single medal in the competition, so the government created the Philippine Sports


Commission with the hope that we will be able to develop sports in the country.

Similarly, during the Western Mindanao Regional Athletic Association (WMRAA) Meet in the past years, Zamboanga del Sur ranks far behind from other provinces and cities in the region with Zamboanga City delegation always emerging as champions. This is one of the factors that drove the governor to put up a sports academy in the province, to train potential young athletes in the countryside for them to be more competitive. With the creation of the Provincial Sports Academy during the incumbency of Governor Antonio Cerilles in 2010, Zamboanga del Sur slowly bounced back, came out champion in 2013, runner-up in 2014 and again champion in this year’s ZPRAA Meet.

Governor Cerilles attributes the victories to the establishment of the Provincial Sports Academy. Since cities have their own delegation, our potential athletes from the province would be difficult to train in the municipalities because of the distance. So the good governor decided to put up our own sports academy utilizing the special education fund (SEF), provide the pre-screened potential high school student/athletes free board and lodging, food, uniform, and all the basic necessities they need.

To date, there are 200 student athletes in the academy, undergoing year-round training on different sports events and academics as well. Teachers, trainors, including tutors, sociologist, psychologist and nutritionist were hired by the provincial government to focus on their training and academic needs.


“We have to prepare them not only physically but academically, because later on if they will succeed, a scholarship will be offered to them and they will not shy-away from the offer,” Governor Cerilles said.

Asked as to his comments on the good performance showed by the athletes in the recently concluded ZPRAA meet, the governor replied, “I am happy because that is for their own good. To give them a chance to change their lives, because most of them came from very poor families, and second, to keep them away from dangerous drugs or any other vices that will eventually destroy their future.”

This year’s ZPRAA meet, earned for Zamboanga del Sur a total of 82 gold medals, 66 silver medals and 55 bronze medals both in the secondary and elementary level.


MANILA - The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P1.13 billion to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the implementation of infrastructure projects in various regions affected by Typhoon Yolanda.

Yolanda-hit areas receive P1.13 B for more infra projects

Charged against the FY 2014 Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Program Fund (RRPF), the amount is slated for the construction, repair, and restoration of roads and thoroughfares that were affected by the supertyphoon in the different cities and municipalities of Regions IV-B (MIMAROPA), V (Bicol), VI (Western Visayas), VII (Central Visayas), and VIII (Eastern Visayas).

Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “The 2015 budget has been designed to give

f u l l support to various rehabilitation a n d reconstruction projects this year. Consistent with our Build-Back-Better strategy, we don’t just plan to rebuild roads and bridges damaged by Yolanda. We also intend to develop better and more resilient infrastructure that will enable the affected regions to weather future calamities.”

Eastern Visayas, which experienced the most damage after being directly hit by the


typhoon, will receive the largest allocation, with P642.7 million divided among the provinces of Tacloban, Leyte, Biliran, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, and Samar. Meanwhile, Western Visayas will receive P305.9 million to benefit the provinces of

Antique, Iloilo, Aklan, and Capiz.

The fund release is part of the P20.9-billion appropriation from the FY 2014 RRPF Continuing Appropriation. The breakdown of the releases per region is as follows:


Abad said, “The latest release will also help fulfill the Administration’s target for 2015, which is for infrastructure spending to reach four percent of the GDP this year. More important, the infrastructure expansion in these areas will spur renewed economic activity, which will ultimately lead to more livelihood opportunities for our people.” The DPWH has the second-largest allocation in the 2015 National Budget with P303.2 billion this year, higher by 37.9 percent from P219.9 billion in 2014. Of this total, P185.8 billion will be allotted for the completion of all national roads

by 2016 and all bridges along national roads by 2015. (DBM)


During the meeting, delegates will discuss emerging trends and issues on urban infrastructure and financing, get an overview of the Urban Infrastructure Network, and review the urban infrastructure issues being encountered by Philippine government agencies.

They are expected to focus on specific infrastructure sectors in the Philippines,

such as transport and energy, and discuss achievements and challenges in building urban infrastructure in the country.

They are also expected to tackle private sector participation in financing urban infrastructure, including the steps to be undertaken to facilitate future collaboration between the private and public sectors. (PCOO)

Infrastructure partnership, major agenda in APEC meeting in Tagaytay

MANILA - Delegates of member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) will meet at the Taal Vista Hotel in Tagaytay City on Wednesday, March 4 for the Asia-Pacific Infrastructure Partnership Dialogue 2015.


QUEZON CITY - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has seized a factory of improvised bombs in the town Mamasapano during its offensive operations on a BIFF harbor on Sunday.

AFP troops seizes BIFF bomb factory in Mamasapano

“Our troops successfully seized a bomb-making facility after assaulting the enemy positions on Sunday. The enemy was able to escape but the equipment and materials that are used to fabricate home-made bombs were left behind,” said Colonel Melquiades Feliciano, Army Commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade.

The said facility is situated in the encampment owned by a certain Mohammad Tambako in Brgy. Dasikil that was netted by the 601st Infantry Brigade troops.

Vital components for making bombs such as mortar fuses, ammonium nitrate, blasting caps and tie wires were among those that were recovered from the site.

The operations of the 601st Infantry Brigade is in line with AFP’s ongoing ‘all-out offensive’ actions against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) that was ordered by AFP Chief of Staff, General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. last February 25. (AFP)

www.gmanetwork.com


DSWD expands age coverage for social pension

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Indigent senior citizens aged 65 years old and above are now qualified to receive stipend from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

By: Charmaine Suzette Leonore P. Tadlas

DSWD regional director Atty. Araceli F. Solamillo recently announced that because of this effect, more than 39,000 indigent senior citizens in the region will now be receiving P500.00 from the DSWD on a monthly basis for their needs such as medicines.


This was signed in the presence of governor Khalid Q. Dimaporo of Lanao del Norte and members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council. The parties include the 2nd Mechanized Infantry (Magbalantay) Brigade, Mechanized Infantry Division, Philippine Army with headquarters located at barangay Maria Cristina, Iligan City, represented by its brigade commander, colonel Gilbert I Gapay,

and Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office, Camp Gallego, Pigcarangan, Tubod, Lanao del Norte represented by police senior superintendent Madid M Paitao, provincial director. Both parties agree to revitalize and strengthen the existing AFP–PNP JPSCC in accordance with the current PNP and AFP Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This is in line with the Internal

The DSWD however emphasizes that the Social Pension Program is intended for those senior citizens who are considered indigent based on the National Household Targeting System of the DSWD, and/or those who are not beneficiaries of any social insurances such as Social Security System (SSS) and Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). Senior citizens or their family relatives may visit their local social welfare and development offices on how to avail of the stipend. Having heard the concerns of

the public that the stipend is very minimal, Solamillo explains that the budget appropriated for the said program is very minimal and that the DSWD is continuously lobbying with the congress to increase the agency’s budget so that stipends for its beneficiaries will also increase, and that more indigent senior citizens will also be covered. The Social Pension is one of the provisions under Section 5 of Republic Act 9994 otherwise known as the “Expanded Senior Citizen Act of 2010.”

AFP, PNP forge pact on revitalization of peace, security coordinating center in Lanao Norte

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte - A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was entered into on the establishment of the AFP-PNP Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC) in Lanao del Norte.

By: Lorry V. Gabule


Peace and Security (IPSP) “Bayanihan” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Operational Plan “Samahan” which requires multi-sectoral approach and close coordination in battling the Internal Peace and Security Operations and promotes public safety and order. PSCC will be co-chaired by the commander, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade and the Provincial Director, LDNPPO with battalion commanders, municipal chiefs of police, company commander PPSC in Lanao del Norte and respective Triad Staff and Quad staff as members. Joint Letter Directive No 07-2010 dated March 17, 2011 mandates the establishment of the AFP-PNP Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center at national, regional, down to provincial, city and municipal level that will provide the mechanism, structure, and procedures for the integrated planning, coordination, monitoring, assessing of the security situation, and implementing of necessary measures aimed at enhancing the internal security of the area and its interests. Executive Order 546 directs the Philippine National Police (PNP) to undertake active support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Internal Security Operations for the suppression of insurgency and other serious threats to national security. While the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade (2nd Mech) has the province of Lanao del Norte as its area of responsibility with units operationally controlled and organic

to it are strategically deployed to address internal security threat groups and protect the people and the communities from terrorist activities in the province. JPSCC shall be composed of five sub-committees, namely: Operations Committee, Intelligence Committee, Civil Military Operations – Police Community Relations Committee, Legal Committee, and Logistics and Support Committee. General provision states that the 2nd Mech Bde and LDN PPO deploys the services of personnel who shall undertake guarding, maintenance of peace and order, and protecting the people and properties of the Province of Lanao del Norte and such other places that may be agreed upon by both parties from various threat groups such as CNN, Terrorist Groups, Auxiliary Threat Groups, Private Armed Groups, Groups of Special Concern such as MILF and MNLF and other lawless elements. As to membership, the JPSCC, within its committees, may be expanded to include Local Government Units (LGUs), line government agencies, non-government organizations, civil society organizations and other stakeholders, depending on the focus of the Joint AFP-PNP efforts. This MOA signing highlighted the Provincial Peace and Order Council Meeting held at the Macapagal Training Center Hall, provincial capitol, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, on February 11, 2015.


SPI Power Plant Manager Dr. Carsten Evers said the unit was officially synchronized to the Mindanao grid at around 6:08 a.m., March 2. “We have successfully completed the preventive maintenance works for our Unit 2 and 105MW is now made available to the Mindanao grid.” Dr. Evers announced. Unit 2 went offline starting February 19 following a planned Preventive Maintenance Schedule (PMS). Dr. Evers explained earlier that the maintenance activities need to be carried out to sustain and optimize SPI’s long-term power plant operations. He also explained that the preventive maintenance works were carefully planned, scheduled and coordinated with key players in the power industry including the grid operator NGCP to minimize any adverse impact on the already volatile power supply condition of Mindanao. Meanwhile, the preventive maintenance for SPI’s Unit 1 is currently in full swing and on–track.

Barring any complications, unit 1 is expected to be back on line on or before March 16. The unit went offline for a planned preventive maintenance beginning February 21. SPI’s power plant at the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate in Misamis Oriental is composed of two identical power generating units, each with a net generating output of 105MW. Since start of its operations in November 2006, SPI has already delivered more than 11.5 billion kWh of electricity representing about a fifth of Mindanao’s total power supply. Further, SPI, which is principally owned by the German company Steag GmbH, is a leader in advance coal-power generation technology and one of the pioneers in operating and maintaining a highly efficient and reliable coal-fired power plant in the country.

Energy-firm adds up 105 MW to the Mindanao Grid

VILLANUEVA, Misamis Oriental - STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI) announces today the successful completion of the preventive maintenance for its electric power generating unit 2 as planned and scheduled.

By: Jerome R. Soldevilla

DAVRAA showcases ‘healing effects of sports to Davao Oriental’ – Guv

DAVAO ORIENTAL– as Davao Regional Athletic Association (DAVRAA) Meet 2015 draws unity, sportsmanship and resiliency through competitive games to the City of Mati, for Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, celebrat-ing sports festivals like these ‘signals the Prov-ince’s recovery from the challenges brought by the aftermath of the Typhoon Pablo.’ “I would like to cel-ebrate sports in terms of the effects it could bring to those who engage in it,” said the governor as she delivered her mes-sage during the Meet’s Opening Ceremonies on February 24, 2015 at Mati Centennial Sports Complex. DAVRAA is an annu-al regional sporting event that gatheredapproxi-mately 5,000 delegates from Davao City, Tagum City, Mati City, Panabo City, Digos City, Davao

del Sur, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Compos-tella Valley Province and Island Garden City of Sa-mal. This year’s DAVRAA Meet assembled almost 4,000 student athletes, 600 coaches, 600 techni-cal officials and support chaperons. Governor Malanya-on encouraged delegates to observe what the province gained so far and to witness how the province is healing from the ‘wounds of the natu-ral disaster’. “This event has a deeper meaning to Davao Oriental because it showcases the heal-ing effect of sports,” said Governor Malanyaon emphasizing that “sport heals the body and soul, the display of physical prowess shows not only freedom from any form of illness but showcases the pinnacle of health and wellbeing.” “Hence, sports rep-resent a symbolism of healing for the province,”


she clinched. According to Governor Malanya-onthe breakthroughs achieved so far by the province are the manifesta-tions of the healing, by witnessing the marked differences of the three hard-hit towns in Baganga, Cateel and Boston. “We have not only recovered but also bounced back with more strength in development.” According to her, development projects like the Aliwagwag Nature Park and the Aragon Dam in Cateel, the Sunrise Booulevard in Baganga, Pusan point in Caraga revealed that people in Davao Oriental were not defeated by challenges. She also said that the completion of tourist loops that link the natural and cul-tural heritage of Davao Oriental is near. “We have enhanced our eco-parks from Boston to Pusan Point in Caraga to the tip of Cape San Agus-

tin in Governor Gen-eroso,” said Governor Malanyaon. She invited everyone to see the majestic sight of Mt. Hami-guitan World Heritage Site from Baywalk and immerse in the expe-rience of the richness of natural and cultural heritage at Subangan Museum. “We have not only healed but bounced back with resolve and

dignity.” Moreover, the Governor ad-mired sports also because of its unifying effect. According to her, it unifies races, social status and differ-ences. She cited a case about sport published by Princeton University on the effects of every Manny Pac-quiao’s fight to the Filipino People. She quoted “he literally shuts down the entire nation of the Philippines whenever he fights… everyone has their attention and positive vibes on their fellow countryman for at least 1 hour,” stressing the ‘borderlessness’ of sports. She said that people celebrate sports also because of its humbling effect. She believed that one of the significant values of sports is how the elders teach the young to handle defeats more than victories. She reminded everybody that for any fair play, defeat is temporary and you


can always bounce back for the next match. She congratulated the Government of Mati City for taking the challenge of hosting DAVRAA 2015 with comfort. She also thanked the officials and working force of

DAVRAA, principals and teachers of the Department of Education and all agencies and organizations who collaborated for this ‘huge learning activity’. (By Van Jorain O. Rufin, DAVOR PIO)

DavNor Gov reiterates trust with security forces to safeguard 2015 Palaro

DAVAO DEL NORTE, March 2 (PIA)--- Provincial Governor Ro-dolfo P. del Rosario over the weekend reiterated his declaration of trust with the security forces in the province to guard the 2015 Palarong Pambansa from intru-sion of lawless elements. Del Rosario foresaw a test to the accomplishment of promoting peace during the hosting of Palar-ong Pambansa in May while noting the “volatile condition of peace” in Mindanao that, he said, “poses great challenge for us, as we aim to stage the best Palaro ever”. “I am certain that nothing beats the great pre-emptive potential of our formidable security front consist-ing of the armed forces, the police and the vigilant community,” he said during his keynote address dur-ing the Recognition Night and Anni-versary Ball of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade on Feb. 28 held at Lakan’s Place in Tagum City. Davao del Norte will play host of this year’s Palarong Pambansa

which is expected to draw about 20,000 delegates and spectators from all over the country.On the other hand, Del Rosario took the opportunity to call for peace which he said “is now within reach” while reminding the public that “Min-danao has long been torn apart by conflict, and we cannot afford to go on with the culture of animos-ity and mistrust that has fuelled the decades-old insurgency.” Meanwhile, he extended his gratitude to the 1003rd Inf. Bde known as the “Raptor Brigade”, for its seven years of “selfless service” and “enduring commitment” in serv-ing the Dabaonon people thus help-ing the provincial government push its quest for peace and development. “Along with our local peace efforts, the Province of Davao del Norte has been indebted to the Bri-gade for its full support to our Peace and Development Convergence Pro-gram, which was followed by our OPLAN ANDAM (Awareness on Natu-ral Disaster and Mitigation) Program. (PIA XI/Jeanevive Duron-Abangan)


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Mar. 3– Archived legal documents at the General Santos City Hall of Justice will soon be properly housed.

P8-M archive building to rise in Gensan

The city government through its partnership with the judicial branch is set to build an archive building with an estimated cost of P8 million at the Integrated Bar of the Philippines compound near the Hall of Justice in Barangay Lagao.

City Mayor Ronnel Rivera., Supreme Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez and Deputy Court Administrator Thelma Bahian led the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, Feb 28.

Mayor Rivera, in an interview, said that he immediately examined the situation of the justice system of the city when he sat down as the local chief executive last 2013.

“I know the courts here in Gensan really need support so that they can dispense [cases] fast. One of their requests was to have an archive building that’s why I did my best, with the help of the Sangguniang Panglungsod to make it possible,” Mayor Rivera said.

He said he also increased the allowances received by the judges, prosecutors, and lawyers under the Public Attorney’s Office.

“It is not very often that we have an LGU which is very supportive to our courts,” Marquez said as he expressed delight over the support the city LGU has accorded to the City Hall of Justice.

“That is one reason why upon being informed that we will be very fortunate today to witness this capsule laying, I actually have to drop everything and change my schedule so I could be here with


you.”“Because I believe that more

than anything else, it is actually the symbolic partnership of the local government unit (LGU) and the courts should be recognized,” the Supreme Court administrator continued.

He explained that the courts are important components of local government and that there are no successful LGUs without the support of the judicial system.

“Normally, I go to different cities and talk to the mayors to ask support for our courts, but here in

Gensan, I didn’t have to do that; the mayor already gave his support,” Marquez bared.

“I think the last time I expressed my appreciation to a mayor was in Manila. In Mindanao, this is my first time,” he pointed out.

Marquez assured that the judicial process here in Gensan would be much faster and efficient. Along that line, he also divulged that Gensan would be one of the first recipients of their “E-court” software currently being developed. (IJLagare- Gensan CPIO/DEDoguiles-PIA 12)


KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, Mar. 3-- In a move to advocate livelihood and wellbeing among Cotabateños, the provincial government recently launched the ‘Gulayang Pangkabuhayan ng Cotabato’.

NorthCot pushes veggie gardeningBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

It is a venture entered into by the provincial government, the Harbest Agribusiness Corporation, Southern Christian College of Midsayap, Balindog Research and Experimental Center and the 602nd Brigade of the Philippine Army based in the town of Carmen.

Governor Emmylou Mendoza said that the undertaking will give further opportunity to mitigate hunger and malnutrition especially in some depressed areas in the province as

well as give chance to earn and save money.

“Simple and does not require a large amount of work and capital, the ‘Gulayang Pangkabuhayan ng Cotabato’ is designed to promote gardening among the people and make this as part of livelihood, just like the old times when people grew lots of vegetables in their own homes.

“We need to do this most especially in this crucial time where


COTABATO CITY, Mar 3 – The Bureau of Fire Protection-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao calls for the general public to be safety-conscious when it comes to fire prevention not only during this March, but every day.

BFP-ARMM calls for public support in observance of Fire Prevention MonthBy: Oliver Ross V. Rivera

BFP-ARMM Director Fire SSupt. Adam Guiamad reminded the public to be vigilant and be constantly aware of fire prevention not only during the observance of the Fire Prevention Month, but whole year round.

The official calls on citizens, local officials, schools, companies, and communities to be alert, vigilant, and to join in the campaign to avert fires.

This is in line with the observation of 49th Fire Prevention Month that kicked-off Sunday, March 1, with a parade joined by the elements of BFP, fire volunteers and concerned citizens.

The parade was simultaneously done in BFP-ARMM’s provincial and municipal stations located in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

The activity dubbed as the “Walk for a Fire-Safe and Fire-Free Nation” goes with this year’s theme “Kaligtasan sa Sunog Alamin, Gawin, at Isabuhay Natin”.

The annual observance is based on Presidential Proclamation 115-A issued on November 17, 1966, to provide education and awareness during the summer months to lessen the incidence of fire in the country. (ORVRivera-PIA12)

shortage is an impending problem that needs to be addressed properly,” Mendoza stated.

The governor also emphasized the benefits of gardening to attaining a healthy environment.

Launched in Camp Lucero, Carmen, Mendoza believes that the venture will be replicated not only in

different villages in the town but also to other areas.

On the other hand, Harbest Agribusiness Corporation for their part, helps by providing vegetable seeds and technical assistance and training for plant growers in the near future. (SJDuerme-PIA12/N.Cot. Media Bureau)


DA-GPB FMRs to boost economic activity in Dinagat Islands

BUTUAN CITY - Residents of Basilisa, province of Dinagat Islands were optimistic that the farm to market roads implemented by the Department of Agriculture (DA) in their town will further trigger its economic activities.

By: Aurelius P. Arais

DA Caraga is implementing six farm to market roads in the said town now with more than 50 percent completion level funded under the Grassroots Participatory Budgeting (GBP). Farm to market road is underway on its construction at Ritaglenda – Sombrado; Sto.


Nino; Sering – Melgar; Benglen; Villa Ecleo Highway and in Roma – Montag. The six farm to market roads stretching 100 meters each and fully concrete has a total allocation of six million pesos. Benglen Barangay Captain Wilson Escalera Sr. said that DAs FMR will be a contributing factor towards the realization of their dream to be a trading center. The FMR in Benglen is leading towards its barangay port projected to be a convergence area for the communities residing along the river areas. “Kung mahuman na ni nga kalsada dinhi na unya muagi ang mga katawhan sa mga silingang barangay so dako gyud ni ug ikatabang sa mga katawhan (Once this road will be completed, it will be a major way for the residents of our neighboring barangays, so it will greatly help to the populace),” Escalera said. Aside from the riding public, DAs FMR will help ease in transporting goods in the area such as aqua products, cereals, rootcrops and copra. “Nagpasalamat gyud mi sir nga nia na ning kalsada kay kaniadto diha gani senior citizen nga nausdak dinhi kay lisod gyud kaayo agian, pero karon arang-arang na makaagi na gyud ang

mga motor, unsa pa kaha kung mahuman na (We are really thankful for having this road because previously there was a senior citizen who was slipped down here due to very poor condition, but nowadays it’s better, motorcycles can now pass through easily how much more if it will be completed),” he added. Motorcycle is a common public transport in the area due to its terrain. Aside from six FMRs, DA through GBP also extended livelihood projects such as vegetable production, organic fertilizer production and aqua related projects in the said municipality. The local government unit through the Municipal Agriculture Office conducted monitoring to keep abreast of the project status and make the necessary measures to ensure its sustainability and success. Grassroots Participatory Budgeting (GPB) is an initiative to make the planning and budgeting processes of both local and national government more participatory through the genuine involvement of grassroots organizations and communities, strengthening the convergence of the delivery of national services in the community.


Pantawid beneficiary increases income through ice trading

SIARGAO ISLANDS, Surigao del Norte - Self-Sufficient Pantawid Pamilya beneficiary from the islet of Sta. Felomena, Dapa, Surigao del Norte is now hailed as the sole supplier of ice in the said islet.

By: Ryan M. Tapayan

Living in an islet where fishing is the main source of income makes refrigeration a great need, a necessity to the fisher folks. “Dako jud ang tabang aning ref labi na gayud sa amo nga naga-imbak pud ug isda. Halin kaayo ang ice diri sa among lugar kay kasagaran sa mga lumulupyo diri, mangingisda man (This refrigerator has helped our family a lot; especially to people who also preserve fish. In our place, ice is so viable because most of us here are fishermen),” Jodelyn happily shared. Jodelyn D. Espaldo is one of the self-sufficient Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in the locality. Jodelyn is married to Edwin Espaldo and is blessed with daughter named Einjehl Ann

Espaldon. “This kind of income generating activity [refrigeration] has helped Espaldo’s family a lot. It also helps almost 30 households in their community. On our records and based on assessment, their income increases to five percent out from their original monthly


income amounting to 7,000php,” shared Geneline Plaza, Municipal link for Dapa. Aside from their refrigeration business, the couple also engage themselves to other money-making activities like sari-sari store, pump-boat driving, fishing, and joins also in bigasan sa bayan. “Paningkamot jud ang susi aning tanan. Pinaagi sa among panag-tinabangay, isip magtiayon, nakab-ot namo karon ning gamay ug malahutayon nga kalambuan (Combined effort is the key to what we have now. Together as

a couple, we achieved this little but continuous development),” Jodely added. Now, the couple is inspired to continue life amidst constant challenges. With hope and vigor, Espaldon family will soon inspire others to do well on investing from life, a life that echoes development. Espaldon family is one of the 196 self-sufficient household beneficiaries in Dapa, Surigao del Norte.


The SSF Facility consists of 100 units twining machines and 10 units of weaving machines that will be used in the production of coconets or coco fibernets/geotextiles. The total project cost is

placed at P550,000. Coconets are derived from the fibrous husks of coconuts. The fiber extracted from discarded coconuts husks, which is commonly called coco coir, has to undergo further twining

DTI-Surigao Norte turns over geonets production facility to Claver coop

SURIGAO CITY - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has turned-over several units of weaving and twining machines as Shared Service Facility (SSF) for Geonets Production to the Claver Coconut Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CLACOFARMCO) at their plant site in Sitio Pangi, Brgy. Daywan, Claver, this province.


and weaving for it to become a geotextile. The coconets are laid on the sloping areas to prevent the land from eroding and being washed away during rainfall. After about three to six months, vegetation can already be seen in geonets covered areas that makes the soil more stable. On his inspirational message, DTI provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan emphasized that the SSF project aims to improve the production capacity and efficiency of the present operation of CLACOFARMCO by way of providing necessary equipment. He encouraged the cooperative to produce more quality products using the machines they recently acquired. On his part, Claver Mayor Eddie P. Gokiangke assured the co-operator more support and assistance from the local government unit. He emphasized that the growth of the local coconut industry will give positive impact to the community as it will increase the income of the farmer-members. SSF Coordinator, Ma.

Theresa Z. Calang presented and reviewed the provision of the SSF Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) emphasizing to the proponent co-operator for them to effectively manage, operate and take care of the shared service facility properly and in accordance with the provisions of the MOA. The launching and turnover ceremony of the SSF facility was formally instituted with the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) by director Negapatan and CLACOFARCO President Delfin Lopez, witnessed by Mayor Gokiangkee. The activity was attended by the officers and members of the CLACOFARMCO, Daywan Barangay Officials, representatives from the local government of Claver, Philippine Coconut Authority and DTI.





IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – Days have been counted, the entire country has mourned the death of the 44 slain PNP-SAF also tagged as the “Fallen 44” in the ill-fated Mamasapano clash between the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Sibugay PNP to pay tribute to “Fallen 44” on the culmination of 44 days’ mourning By: Emmanuel D. Taghoy


This Sunday (March 8) though marks the culmination of the 44 days mourning for the SAF heroes, and the Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Police Office (ZSPPO) decided to embellish this significant day with a sympathy walk, run and bike, for a cause. “We would like to instill in the heart and mind of every law enforcer to value the supreme sacrifice that the SAF 44 have done for the sake of God, country and people,” said Police Senior Supt. Jose Bayani L. Gucela, officer-in-charge of ZSPPO in a letter sent to the media. PSSupt. Gucela also serves as Board of Director of the Philippine National Police Academy Alumni Association Inc. (PNPAAAI) of Police Regional Office (PRO)- 9. The activity will commence around 5 o’clock in the morning

from the assembly area in Acay compound, Barangay Sanito, going to the Freedom Park in Barangay Poblacion near the Ipil Obelisk-Rotunda, where the walk ends. As for the bikers, route goes to Poblacion, Kabasalan and finishes in Ipil Freedom Park, where a mass will then be held. “The distance will be a total of 44 kilometers, signifying the 44 lives of the fallen comrades,” explained PSSupt. Gucela. He said the event is also a fund raising activity. As such, participants are required to pay a registration fee of P200, in which they will be given a printed tee-shirt to be worn during the event. Proceeds of the fund raising activity will be given to the family and children of the SAF 44, according to PSSupt. Gucela.


Zambo. Sur is ZPRAA 2015 champion for high school level By: Claro A. Lanipa

Zamboanga del Sur has garnered 55 gold, 39 silver and 25 bronze medals from the different sports events in the secondary level followed by Zamboanga City with 35 gold, 35 silver and 32 bronze and Dipolog City with 16 gold, 19 silver and 30 bronze medals

In the elementary level, Zamboanga City athletic delegation came out as the overall champion, bagging 37 gold, 31 silver and 32 bronze medals followed by the Zamboanga del Sur delegation with 27 gold, 27 silver and 30 bronze medals, and the Dipolog City delegation

PAGADIAN CITY – The Zamboanga del Sur Athletic delegation has made it again after it emerged as the overall champion for the secondary level in the recently concluded Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) Meet 2015 held in this city last Feb. 25-28.


which harvested 24 gold, 21 silver and 13 bronze medals.Acting Regional Director Malcolm Garma of the Department of Education (DepED)-9 in his message during the closing program on Saturday said: “ZPRAA 2015 is about to end but our quest for gold in the Palarong Pambansa 2015 this coming May in Tagum City has just started.”“I think this is the most successful ZPRAA Meet ever and for this I congratulate and recognize the host local government unit led by Mayor Romeo Pulmones for a job well done,” Director Garma added.He also extended his gratitude to Governor Antonio H. Cerilles, Congressman Victor Yu of the province’s first district and Congresswoman Aurora Cerilles osecond district for their assistance and support to the four-day athletic event.Meanwhile, special awards were also awarded to the Zamboanga City delegation as the most disciplined group, Isabela City as the most organized and Zamboanga Sibugay as the cleanest, greenest and eco-friendly delegation.


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One Mindanao - March 3, 2015

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