One Mindanao - October 10, 2011

2 ONE MINDANAO Thursday, September 8, 2011

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] : hnb_r9pia

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

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)2/F Kanto Motors Bldg.,Quimpo Blvd., New MatinaDavao City 8000Telephone no. (082) 297-0991 / 301-8580Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 / 304-2044Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950E-mail : [email protected]

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

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] [email protected],ph

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESIN MINDANAO

In This Issue...

Cover Story: Bonok-bonok: Surigaonons’ way of thanksgiving for bountiful blessing

NATIONAL• Palace expresses elation over World Economic Forum Report with improved ranking for PHL• Energy Department monitors movement of oil prices says Malacanang• Aquino transfers supervision of PITC Pharma to Department of Trade from Health Department

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)• Surigao to celebrate Bonok-Bonok Festival 2011• 1st Siargao Adventure Race set• Agusan del Sur education program reap another success• DepEd Caraga celebrates Teachers’ Month Campaign• Immigration monitors foreign nationals in Caraga

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)• Pagadian’s hosting of MinBizcon will put the city in the Philippine map, says Mayor Co• BIR locks 5 big stores in Zambo City• Region 9 soon to benefit drought tolerant rice varieties• Pag-IBIG fund calls on member employees to comply with mandatory on line registration• 75% of Zambo City jeepney drivers avail Pantawid Pasada Cards

Northern Mindanao• Mambajao kicks off early festivity for town fiesta• SSS revives member’s ID to improve service delivery• Phil. Army accepts applicants for the Officers Candidate Course Class 40• Mayor Emano thanks Sen. Villar for allocating P2-M for projects in Cag. de Oro• PDEA-10 arrests 2 in illegal-drugs trade

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)• Breast cancer survivors, advocates to converge in educational forum• More women die sans RH Bill – advocates• Davao youth group unifies support to RH Bill• DOH holds 7th leg of LBK during Comval Family Health Fair• MAPEH teachers in Comval improve dancing skills

OUR COVERToday’s cover features the

BONOK-BONOK FESTIVAL 2010,

a prelude to the 2011Bonok-bonok Festival

on September 9in Surigao City.

Viva Sr. San Nicolas de Tolentino!

3ONE MINDANAOThursday, September 8, 2011

Bonok-Bonok: Surigaonons'wayofthanksgivingforbountifulblessing

Cover Story:

Bonok-Bonok is the Surigaonons’ way of thanksgiving for the bountiful blessings, this event is marked by Mardi Gras-like celebrations. Dances are offered in honor of the city’s patron saint, Señor San Nicolas De Tolentino.

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History Surigao is home to the Mamanwa eth-nic tribe. Their dances are showcased in a lo-cal festival called “Bo-nok-Bonok, held at the feast of San Nicolas de Tolentino which is held annually on September 10. The Bonok-Bonok depicts the native folks’ ,merry-making to show gratitude to pagan gods for bountiful harvest and good health. Bonok-Bo-nok Maradjaw Karad-jaw is a Mardi gras-like celebration of dances, colors, bargains, and

food. One of the oldest and still existing tribes in the Philippines are the Mamanwas, who are quite similar to the Negritoes in physical profile. Although forced to settle in the hinter-islands because of the advent of development,

they still practice, how-ever, their customs and traditions. Among these is the belief about “KA-HIMUNAN”, a tribal festivity, where music and graceful dancing are distinctive features. They chant and play ac-companied with their in-struments, such as: the

Cover story: Bonok-Bonok ...from page 3

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gimbar (drum), the gong and the bamboo called the “kalatong” and “ka-tik”. A “baylan” or priest officiates the celebration as a tribute to their God, “MAGBABAYA” and an-cestors for good health and bountiful harvest in-tercessions. During the “kahimunan” or tribal festivity, wild pigs, chick-en and different fruits are offered to the ancestors. A thanksgiving dance called “BONOK-BONOK” is performed by the dif-ferent village chieftains and babaeyons. Happi-ness and friendship are expressed through danc-

ing, shouting and sing-ing. They wave scarves of “BANAY” as signs of good will, prosperity and blessings for the en-tire tribal village. Thus, Bonok-Bonok is a ritual dance which originated from these early set-tlers. The rhythm usu-ally starts with a slow beat and gradually gets faster, causing the danc-ers to work at pace with the music. Adding to the attraction of the dance, is the colorful raiment, which includes beaded headdresses or tubaw, bracelets and aklets of

the women. The cere-monial dress of the men and women are likewise ornate in design, and of various colors. The dance ritual has been brought down through the generations and still being practiced today. In reverence to the Patron Saint San Nicolas de Tolentino, the people have already adopted the “Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Kara-djaw” Festival which is a reflection of Surigao’s rich cultural heritage. (City Tourism Office-Surigao City/PIA-Su-rigao del Norte)

Cover story: Bonok-Bonok ...from page 4


Malacañang expressed elation on Thursday over the latest World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report, ranking the Philippines as 75th in the world.

Palace expresses elation over World Economic Forum Report with improved ranking for PHL

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Palace expresses elation over World Eco-nomic Forum Report with improved ranking for PHL

Malacanang ex-pressed elation on Thursday over the latest World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness

Report, ranking the Phil-ippines as 75th in the world. “The World Eco-nomic Forum has ranked

President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with outgoing German Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency Ludwig Weber Lortsch during a farewell call on him at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (September 08). (Photo by: Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau).


Palace expresses... from page 6

the Philippines as 75th in the world in its 2011-2012 Global Competi-tiveness Report, moving us up 10 places from our 2010-2011 ranking of 85th,” Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a press briefing held in Mala-canang on Thursday. Lacierda said, “This is thus far our highest ever improvement, and one of the highest rank-ing improvement by any country in the world in the past year.” “Since June of last year, our administration has been very active in showing the world that the Philippines is open for business; and thus it is good to see that our efforts have mani-fested in these rank-ings, particularly in the area of Macroeconomic Environment, in which we jumped 14 places to

54th in the world,” he said. Lacierda said, “The report particularly noted our improved national savings, our managed inflation, the low inter-est rate environment, the lowering debt-to-GDP ratio, and most prominently, the four credit ratings upgrade in just one year in of-fice.” The Aquino gov-ernment’s rankings also improved in the areas of Competitive Trade Tar-iffs, Number of Days to Start a Business, Public Trust to Politicians and Transparency in Policy Making, among others, according to Lacierda quoting the report. “We are aware that the work does not end here. The report ac-knowledges that there remain challenges for us to hurdle; and we agree.

We assure the Filipino people that while sub-stantial progress has been made, the Aquino Administration contin-ues its work to further improve the lives of the people,” he said. The Aquino admin-istration called on all stakeholders —both in the government and in the private sector—to continue fulfilling their parts in our collective responsibilities so that we can give the people the quality of life they rightfully deserve. The Geneva-based World Economic Forum is an independent and impartial not-for-profit international organiza-tion committed to im-proving the state of the world by engaging lead-ers in partnerships to shape global, regional, and industry agendas. (JS)

Energy Department monitors movement of oil prices says Malacanang

Malacanang assured the public that the Department of En-ergy (DOE) is closely monitoring the oil companies to en-sure that oil price increases would be justified.

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In a regular news briefing held in Mala-canang on Thursday, Presidential Spokesper-son Edwin Lacierda said the DOE regularly moni-tors the oil prices to en-sure if these accurately reflect the prices of pe-troleum products in the international market. “We follow the market forces. Ang ma-

halaga ay namo-moni-tor ng DOE ang pagtaas at alam nila kung anong range ang dapat itaas at kung anong range ang ibababa,” Lacierda said. While the oil play-ers had imposed a se-ries of oil price increas-es, Lacierda said, “Over the weekend yata baba-ba ulit iyong presyo ng langis.”

Lacierda said the Palace will discuss with Energy Secretary Rene Almendras whether the government will contin-ue the Pantawid Pasada Program of giving sub-sidy to legitimate pas-senger jeepneys, buses and tricycles franchise owners to help them cope with the impact of the oil price hikes. (JS)

Energy Department... from page 7

Aquino transfers supervision of PITC Pharma to Department of Trade from Health Department

President Benigno S. Aquino III has transferred the supervision of the PITC Pharma Inc. (PPI) to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) from the Department of Health (DOH).

President Aquino issued Executive Order No. 54 transferring the PPI to DTI to improve policy and program coordination relative to the government‘s procurement and im-portation of drugs and medicines under Re-public Act No. 9502. PPI is a govern-ment-owned and con-trolled corporation. 60 percent of its out-standing capital stock is owned by the Phil-

ippine International Trading Corp. while 40 percent is owned by the National Develop-ment Co. According to Ex-ecutive Order No. 54, the transfer of the su-pervision of PPI to DTI also aims to “harmo-nize the administrative relationships among DTI, PITC, NDC and PPI.” The President signed the EO 54 on September 6, 2011.

“The PPI shall be transferred from DOH to DTI to im-prove policy and program coordina-tion relative to the government‘s pro-curement and im-portation of drugs and medicines under RA 9502,” the EO 54 stated. The EO will take effect immediately upon publication in a newspaper of gener-al circulation. (CO)


Surigao to celebrate Bonok-Bonok Festival 2011SURIGAO CITY, Sep. 8 (PIA) -- Tourists, neighboring townsfolk and covering journalists will once again be treated to a cultural festivity as Surigaonons will showcase not only their rich culture but also their unique rhythm through the staging of the Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival 2011 on Friday, Sept. 9. The Bonok-Bonok is a ritual dance originated from the Mamanwa tribe which has passed down through the generations and still being practiced today in honor of their patron Saint San Nicolas de Tolentino. Ten contingents from various barangays, schools and towns in the province have confirmed their participation in the two categories- the Bonok-Bonok based and Free Interpretation.

The participants confirmed to join the Bonok-Bonok based category include R.C. Ouano Memorial Elementary School-Barangay Cagniog, Barangay Washington, Barangay Mat-I, Barangay Manjagao, and Barangay Rizal in cooperation with B. Vasquez Central Elementary School and Rizal National High School. For the Free Interpretation category, the participants include

Surigao Norte National High School, Municipality of Tagana-an, Municipality of Alegria, Barangay Lipata, and Barangay Buenavista. Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr., the event guest speaker, is expected to grace the opening rites of the festival along with other local officials headed by City Mayor Ernesto Matugas and Gov. Sol Matugas. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

1st Siargao Adventure Race set

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) -- It’s more than a race, it’s an adventure!

by Fryan E. Abkilan

by Nora CL Molde

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Agusan del Sur education program reap another successAGUSAN DEL SUR, Sept. 8 (PIA) -- Two new doctors paid a courtesy call and thanked Agusan del Sur Gov. Adolph Ed-ward Plaza for the invaluable help they have received from the provincial government. Recently passing the doctor of medicine board examination, they are now rendering medi-cal services at the D.O. Plaza Memorial Hospital (DOPMH) in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. The two were re-cipients of the scholarship grant of Agusan del Sur provin-cial government.

by David M. Suyao

In line with Surigao del Norte Governor Sol F. Matugas’ thrust to promote Siargao as a Sports Tourism destination, the municipality of Santa Monica will be hosting the 1st Siargao Adventure Race on October 4 to 6. According to Santa Monica Mayor Rosalinda Penera, the race will be a one-day racing series of various disciplines such as mountain biking, off-road/trail running, trekking and fishermen’s boat paddling which will take the participants to the different tourist spots of the town. The race is expected to gather 60 competitors. They will have the opportunity to enjoy the scenic view of the town, passing through its coastal areas, mangrove forest, hills, caves, and white sand beaches. Also according to Mayor

Penera, as a highlight of this year’s ‘Araw ng Santa Monica” celebration, the race aims to promote Santa Monica as an alternative tourist destination in Siargao Island. It also aims to develop responsible ethics among outdoor enthusiasts and cultivate a spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship. Conservation of the coastal environment is also given emphasis through a unified effort of coastal clean-up and mangrove planting, Penera added. Winners of the race will receive a total prize of Php100,000 and medals while non-winning participants who clock-in before the designated cut-off time for each category (beginner/master’s) will also receive Finisher’s medals for conquering the race course. It will be a 3-man team with a registration fee

of P1,000, inclusive of full-board meals, events shirts, and transfers within the island. The race will start from the town’s port area and end at Alegria white beach. Other highlights of the 3-day event also include Budols Fight, Sapao-Sapao Festival, Agri-Aqua Fair, Coastal Clean-Up, mangrove Planting, Launching of Life Saving Games, and Santa Monica Discovery Tour. The event is organized by the municipality of Santa Monica, Surigao del Norte, provincial government of Surigao del Norte, First district of Surigao del Norte, Philippine Surfing Federation in partnership with the Department of Tourism and sponsored by the San Miguel Corporation. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

1st Siargao... from page 9

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Dr. Heide Mondejar from the municipality of Talacogon graduated from the Dr. Jose P. Rizal School of Medicine – Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan while Dr. Kenneth Sagrado from Prosperidad graduated from the Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) in Iligan City. “I am very glad and proud that we reap another fruit of our struggles and dreams. Aside from having another two new doctors, I feel very elated because our time and efforts and the resources of the government were not wasted. We can now fill up the need of doctors in the DOPMH who will address one of our thrust in government service which is the delivery of quality health services,” Gov. Plaza said. Dr. Joel Esparagoza, chief of the DOPMH was also glad that the two passed the doctor ’s board. He said the two doctors will be a big help to DOPMH, the lone tertiary hospital in the province. Dr. Esparagoza said he

already passed requests for the position of Medical Officers for the two new doctors. The two new doctors also signed contract of service in front of Gov. Plaza, signifying their sincere willingness to serve the people of Agusan del Sur by working at the DOPMH for eight years. At present, the provincial government of Agusan del Sur has 234 scholars for the school year 2011-2012. Under resolution No. 465 series of 2011, authored by Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Cesar Alonde, 207 scholars were confirmed and approved for the first semester of school year 2011- 2012. The budget will be taken from non-office appropriations in the approved annual budget for the year 2011. Of the 207 scholars, 97 are full blooded indigenous students who will avail of free, full tuition fee, free board and lodging with allowances and they must be enrolled in Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture

and Technology, and the Philippine Normal University. These 97 scholars came from all over the province, with two scholars per municipality. Non-natives 70 scholars will have the same privileges as that of the 97 indigenous scholars. Another 12 are taking medicine enrolled in different medicine schools all of their choice all over the country. Another ten are nursing scholars, eight are persons with disability, five are taking up doctorate degree and another five, masteral degree. In order to complete the 234 scholars, Resolution No. 433 authored by SP member Cesar Alonde was passed. It is a resolution confirming the 27 scholarship grantees of the Agusan del Sur distance learning scholarship program at the University of the Philippines Open University (UP-OU) effective school year 2011-2012 whose budget will also be taken from non-office appropriations in the approved annual budget for 2011. Courses for the distance learning ranges

Agusan del Sur... from page 10

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During Wednesday’s airing of Caraga in Focus, a regular TV program of PIA-Caraga, Pastor Oran, Jr., Alien Control Officer of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said his office is monitoring the activities of these foreign nationals to ensure that everything is placed in order. Hundreds of Chinese nationals are in Caraga Region at present and they have been extending their visas monthly, while few Indian nationals are recorded because most of them are already having a Temporary Residence Visa (TRV), Oran said. He said a foreign national can be a holder of a TRV if

they have married to Filipino or Filipina. Like the American, Japanese and other foreign nationals, if they are married to a Filipino national, they can also apply for a permanent residence. “We call them immigrant… Non-quota immigrant by marriage, that’s the precise visa name of these kinds of nationals,” Oran said. However, the immigration official of the city said those who are extending their visas can only apply for a minimum of one month and a maximum of two months. “Thus, if their visas are already expired and they were not able to apply

for an extension, they will be considered as illegal stay or unauthorized stay… but I believe that most of the foreigners here especially the Chinese are coming to our office to extend their visas,” Oran said. Meanwhile, Col. Efraim Oropel, BI Technical Assistant for Intelligence said the immigration bureau is strengthening its information and advocacy campaign addressed to foreign nationals telling them of their responsibilities while they are in the country. “We are not scaring them but we are just telling them these things for their own protection,” Oropel said. (PIA-Caraga)

Immigration monitors foreign nationals in CaragaBUTUAN CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Immigration (BI) assured that foreign nationals residing in Caraga Region are monitored, not only to make sure they are following the laws of the country but also to ensure their protection.

by Robert E. Roperos

DepEd Caraga celebrates Teachers’ Month CampaignBUTUAN CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) -- In line with the celebration of the World Teach-er’s Day (WTD) on October 5, the Department of Education (DepED) Caraga fetes the Teacher’s Month Campaign (TMC) starting September until October 5.

The campaign with the theme “My Teacher, My Hero,” aims to show the important role of teachers and the service and commitment they render to the students and to the community.

In addition, the activity also promotes respect for the teachers by letting the people know the significance of educators in the country. TMC activity also aims to

call the attention of the students to take a teaching course so that they could add up in the workforce and help in giving quality education to the youth. (MRA with reports from DepED-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

by Maria Rebecca Ayaton

from Master of Development Communication, Master of Arts in Education, Diploma in Mathematics Teaching, Master

of Arts in Nursing, Diploma in Computer Science, Diploma in Science Teaching, Diploma in Language and Literature

Education, Diploma in Social Work and Master in Social Work, to Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Studies. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Agusan del Sur... from page 11


Pagadian’s hosting of MinBizcon will put the city in the Philippine map, says Mayor Co

PAGADIAN CITY, September 8 (PIA) – Mayor Samuel S. Co ex-pressed optimism that the hosting of Pagadian City of the 20th Mindanao Business Conference hopes to make the city part of the Philippine Map. Speaking before the crowd of corporate businessmen and women from Mindanao, Co in his message during the opening of the Trade Exhibit at the City Commercial Center

(C3) said for so long a time now, “Pagadian was simply lying in the corner”. It even seemed not part of the Philippine Map. Except for being the capital city of the province of Zamboanga

del Sur – it is known for no other fame, much more for any business opportunity. Co said “a dream for development and grandeur is illusion if it remains in the mind

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by Gideon C. Corgue


forever. Yet, a dream for development and grandeur is a seed of success if it is freed from the mind then make it work without reservations and make it win without hesitations. I find your presence the exemplary realization of this.” The chief executive said yesterday “we ventured on a dream of making Pagadian becoming the “Little Hongkong of the South” and making its people just a step lower than angels.” “You challenged

me to take the first step to business opportunity. Tomorrow as you may come again, you shall witness this dream coming true. Pagadian will be in the map – not just a humble city, but a city to live, to behold and hope for,” Co assured the public. Co admittedly said that at first, he even doubted to sponsor a big and grand business conference. “Truly, it took me a lot of guts, reservations and self-esteem to sponsor a big event like this but with your presence, it has

signified that we made it,” Co added. He thanked the Department of Trade and Industry for spearheading the trade exhibit, as part of the line-up of activities of the 20th MinBizCon saying that the event for once in a lifetime will surely bring fame and glory to the city. Thirty five (35) exhibitors have participated in the trade exhibit located at the 2nd floor of the C3. (ALT/GCC/PIA9-Pagadian)

BIR locks 5 big stores in Zambo City

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) – The Bureau of Internal Revenue IX temporarily closed five big department stores here for failing to pay their taxes.

by Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

BIR Regional Director Atty. Rozil Lozares personally led the closure of the stores after the owners of the stores did not remit P54 million worth of expanded value added

tax (EVAT) for this year. The closure order was served to owners of Shoppers’ Plaza, Shoppers’ Emporium, Shoppers’ Central, Shoppers’ Square, and Shoppers’ Center.

He said this is all part of the bureau’s “Oplan Kandado”, aimed at going after tax evaders and putting a halt in their operation. Lozano said they gave 48 hours for the

Pagadian’s hosting.. from page 13

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owners to comply with the order but was not given proper action by the management. However, BIR is giving the store owners five days to settle all their taxes, taking into consideration the hundreds of employees now affected by the closure. “We are giving the owners five days

to settle at least five percent of the basic tax so I can recommend to the Commissioner to lift the order”, Lozares said. At least 300 employees were rendered jobless with the closure order but if the owners pay the required minimum amount set by BIR they will all get back to work.

BIR IX is also monitoring other business establishments in the region for wrong declaration of EVAT collection. Other business establishments in other cities in the region were also closed for the same violation, according to Lozares. (MVC/PIA9-Zambo City)

Region 9 soon to benefit drought tolerant rice varietiesZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) - - Rice farmers in the region may soon benefit from the result of a study done by the researchers from the Office of the City Agriculturist (OCA) that identified the best rice varieties suitable to be planted in rain fed areas in Region9.

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez

Department of Agriculture (DA)-OCA will soon make available in Zamboanga City and Region 9 “drought tolerant certified rice varieties,” that has the unique capacity to submerged and withstand drought. DA in its press statement said “three of the 12 registered drought resistant varieties planted during the trials yielded good grains and were recommended

for field trial managed by the farmers in the different rain field areas in Zamboanga City.” DA statement further said, if theses drought resistant rice verities are proven viable, it will be recommended for adaptation for seed and rice productions fallowing the technology used in the study. DA explained, “The three varieties were thoroughly evaluated by the researchers and were also chosen on the spot by the

farmers present during the field day, from among the fully grown 12 varieties in the rain fed areas planted where the study was conducted.” DA revealed, the 12 registered drought resistance rice varieties were provided by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Philippine Rice Institute (PhilRice) purposely to look for the best varities suitable for this region. (JPA/DA/PIA 9-Zambo City)

BIR locks.. from page 14


Pag-IBIG fund calls on member employees to comply with mandatory on line registration

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) - - Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) or Pag-IBIG here calls on all its member employees to com-ply with the mandatory on line registration/enrollment. Pag-IBIG sa id the on l ine reg is t ra t ion i s encouraged as the Fund i s on i t s s tage of preparat ion o f the second batch o f the Pag-IBIG permanent members ID number generat ion . In a press statement, Pag-IBIG said “at the end of a successful online enrollment, the system, shall generate and issue a Registration Tracking Number (RTN) which the

employee can start using for their remittances.” “The RTN will be eventually replaced with a permanent HMDF ID,” reads the press statement. Member-employees are however advised to print the Members Data Form (MDF) for their file and submit a copy to the Pag-IBIG Fund office. Pag-IBIG fund enumerated the various benefits of online registration that

include: facilitates of the issuance of MID number; facilitates consolidation of accounts; updating of member’s information ; enable number-based transaction processing data to be populated to other systems; accurate profiling, immediate posting of payments, eliminate mis-posting of payments, pay anywhere thru its partner collecting banks and payment centers. (JPA/HDMF /PIA 9-Zambo City)

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez

75% of Zambo City jeepney drivers avail Pantawid Pasada CardsZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) – The Bureau of Internal Revenue IX temporarily closed five big department stores here for failing to pay their taxes.

by Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

Noche said there are now 1,200 cards distributed out of the 1,610 allocated in the city alone. “We have accomplished 75% of our target beneficiaries. There are only 410 remaining cards in our office”, Noche said. Noche also reported that Region 9 ranks 3rd in the distribution of the cards nationwide.

However, other provinces in the region reported a low turnout of beneficiaries. Zamboanga del Sur District Officer Emmanuel Barretto said jeepney drivers and operators in his area show lack of interest in claiming their assistance card. The Panatawid Pasada Program Fuel Assistance was first given to tricycle drivers

with P150.00 cash thru the local government units. For jeepney drivers, the assistance will be thru the card which will be load with a one-time P1,050.00 fuel assistance. As per LTO data, the bulk of the beneficiaries in the region come from Zamboanga City with more than 85%. (JPA/MVC/PIA9-Zambo City, with news from Allen Abastillas)


Mambajao kicks off early festivity for town fiesta by Jorie C. Valcorza

CAMIGUIN, Mambajao, Sept. 8 (PIA) – “Mambajao sa Bag-ong Dekada (Mambajao in the New Decade)” has become the theme for the town’s devotional fiesta, this coming Sept. 11, in honor of St. Nicolas, its patron saint. As early as Sept. 1, nightly shows have been sponsored by the dif-ferent schools, national government offices, and private companies in the municipality, among the activities lined-up for the celebration.Each presentation follows a theme, from the 60’s, up to the present and each night, town folks were entertained by dances based on their assigned theme for the night. This has been a reg-ular practice in the town as the fiesta celebration nears. It never dries out of showcase as everybody cooperates to be able to offer something good for the festivity. Activities like ground demonstrations, drum and lyre exhibitions, res-cue and fire drills, sports

tournament, painting contest, and walk for a cause are just some of the activities initiated. On top of this is the selection among beautiful ladies from the town, who gets to wear the crown and win the title as Ms. Mambajao 2011. Meanwhile, aside from fun and games, the Kabataang Liberal ng Pilipina (KALIPI), a group of out-of-school youths, were also given the chance to run the Bagsakan Center, to in-novate any product or service they can think of and take the opportunity of earning some extra money as the celebration is at its peak. Likewise, last Sept. 2, KALIPI members were given a lecture and dem-onstration on vermin cul-

ture by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to educate local them on the alternative way of producing organic fertilizers using worms. “All of these are just part of the local govern-ment unit’s (LGU) thrust of turning the town as the tourism center of the is-land province,” Mayor Ma. Luisa Romualdo said. She said fiestas has always been a well celebrated event in any part of the island, espe-cially on the month of May, when almost ev-eryday, barangays from all over the province take turns in hosting a fiesta, where houses welcomes guests and unfamiliar faces alike to partake the food serve as a way of thanksgiv-ing. (PIA 10)


SSS revives member’s ID to improve service deliveryCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 8 (PIA) --- The Social Security System (SSS) had been issuing modern identifi-cation (ID) cards to its members for easy and convenient trans-actions. “We started produc-ing, last July, the new Uni-fied Multipurpose Identifi-cation (UMID) cards which uses biometric technology in capturing the data,” Atty. Edwin Halo, SSS-Cagayan de Oro Branch head, dur-ing a recent “Talakayan sa PIA,” said. Apart from identifi-cation purposes, Halo said the UMID card,which con-tain contactless chip and magnetic stripe that stores information can also be used for other transac-tions, such as, withdraw-ing SSS benefits and loan proceeds from automated

teller (ATM) machines and SSS kiosks. He explained that the production of the UMID cards involve three (3) stages, namely: data capturing using biomet-rics, assignment of com-mon reference number (CRN), and the UMID pro-duction itself. With this, he an-nounced that their branch is open for the live cap-turing of data of all SSS applicants in the city. Due to problems en-countered in the ID card fa-cility last year, SSS stopped the production of members’

ID resulting to the suspen-sion in the issuances of al-most half million ID cards, he further explained. Meanwhile, Halo dis-closed that SSS will con-duct a Pensioners Day on Sept. 9 at SM City to honor all SSS pensioners. “This is a symbolic act to show that SSS will not stop in taking care of the pensioners even long af-ter they receive their pen-sions,” he stressed. The Pensioners Day, he added, is also part of the month-long celebration of SSS 54th anniversary. (PIA10)

Phil. Army accepts applicants for the Of-ficers Candidate Course Class 40by Major Eugenio Julio C. Osias IVCAMP EAVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, Sept.8 (PIA) – The 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (4ID,PA) has announced the conduct of examinations for those interested to join the Of-ficers Candidate Course (OCC) Class 40 for Calendar Year 2012. Maj. Victor A. Fe-lix, Commander of 4ID, said qualified applicants will undergo a one (1) year leadership train-

ing at the Officer Can-didate School, Training and Doctrine Command, (TRADOC) PA, in Camp O’Donnel, Sta. Lucia,

Capas, Tarlac. “They will then have the chance to be com-missioned by the Presi-dent as 2nd Lieutenant

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in the Regular Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), upon completion of such train-ing,” Felix said. Applicants must have passed the required written examinations for the OCC to be conduct-ed by the Army Testing Office before undergo-ing physical fitness test, physical/medical exami-nations, and PA Officer Selection and Admission Board (PAOSAB) inter-view. Interested appli-cants must be a bacca-laureate degree holder, natural born Filipino citi-zen, at least 152.4 cm (5’0”) for both male and female, without pending case in any court of law. He/she must also be physically, mentally, and psychologically fit for training, single, nev-er been married and has no legal obligation to

support a child, and be-tween 21 and 24 years old on the date of ad-mission. While on training, the candidate officer will receive a pay and al-lowances equivalent to that of a 2nd Lieutenant with a monthly gross of Php29,867. He/she will also receive insurance and healthcare benefits, bil-leting and housing privi-leges, job security, lead-ership and other skills trainings. Among others, he/she will also have the op-portunity for career ad-vancement based on per-formance, opportunities for post graduate studies both within the country and abroad, and an op-portunity to lead in the Army. Interested appli-cants are advised to proceed to the following

venue of examination and bring along initial re-quirements such as: National Statistics Office (NSO) copy of birth certificate, transcript of records/ollege Diploma, one (1) piece of 2x2 col-ored ID picture with white background and identifi-cation Card (ID) for reg-istration. The convening date for examinations are as follows: Sept. 12-13 – Headquarters (Hqs.), 1003rd CDC, 10th RCDG, ARESCOM, PA, Camp Bahian, Impalambong , Malaybalay City. Sept. 14-15 - Hqs. Division Support Area, 4ID, PA, Bancasi, Bu-tuan, City and Sept. 16-17 - Surigao State Col-lege and Tech Surigao City and every Monday to Wednesday, at Hqs. ARC for Mindanao, Camp Evangelista, Patag, this city. (4CMO/PIA-10)

Mayor Emano thanks Sen. Villar for allo-cating P2-M for projects in Cag. de Oroby Lorebeth C. RequirosoCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 8 (PIA) -- Mayor Vicente Y. Emano expressed his gratitude to Senator Manny Vil-lar for allocating Php2.0 million from his senatorial fund for the city government.

Phil. Army.. from page 18

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T he Mayo r s a i d t h e amoun t , wh i c h was r e c e i ved by t h e c i t y ye s t e r day, wa s unexpe c t ed . “Wala ko kini damha nga hinabang, labi na kay wala man ako makatabang sa bootan nga senador sa iyang pagdagan pagka Presidente sa nasud sa milabay nga pili-ay (I

did not expect this help from Sen. Villar, espe-cially because I was not able to help him in his bid to run for President during the last elec-tion),” he said. Mayor Emano said that this is not the first time that the city received an allo-cation from the Sena-tor.

“Hinumduman nga sama sa mga hinabang sa mga mi-labay nga mga pana-hon, hag-as na lang mo-abot ang mga ta-bang ni Sen. Villar (It can be recalled that like in the past, help from Senator Villar just come unexpect-ed,” the mayor added. (CIO/PIA-10)

PDEA-10 arrests 2 in illegal-drugs trade by Juliet Cagaanan

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 8 (PIA) – Two (2) more individuals were arrested by the Philippine Drug En-forcement Agency (PDEA), region 10, after a successful buy-bust operation at Osmeña Ext., Barangay 26, here, at about 9:30 p.m., last Sept. 5. Regional Direc-tor Roberto S. Opeňa of PDEA-10 said the opera-tion resulted to the ar-rest of William D. Cepe-da, male, 43 years old, single, motorela driver and his live-in partner Loren S. Dy, female, 42 years old, single, job-less. Bought from the suspect was one (1) piece heat-sealed transpar-ent plastic sachet con-taining white crystalline substance believed to be

shabu by an undercover PDEA agent who acted as the poseur-buyer. Also recovered from his possession and con-trol was one (1) piece heat-sealed transpar-ent plastic sachet con-taining white crystalline substance suspected to be shabu, four (4) piec-es used aluminum foil strips with suspected shabu residue and one (1) piece colored green lighter with improvised foil needle attached.

Opeňa said the sus-pects are now temporar-ily detained at PDEA-10 Office for booking and documentation while confiscated drug and non-drug evidences were brought to the PNP Crime Laboratory for comprehensive exami-nation. Appropriate charg-es of violation of RA 9165 is now being pre-pared for filing appro-priate charges in court. (PDEA/PIA-10)

Mayor Emano... from page 19


Breast cancer survivors, advocates to converge in educational forum

DAVAO CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) – Breast cancer survivors and advocates will converge for this year’s Silver Linings, an educational forum aimed to empower cancer survivors, their family and friends, as well as the public.

by Mai Gevera-Macapagat

Initiated by the ICanServe Founda-tion, the forum will bring in famous per-sonalities like Senator Loren Legarda, Karen Davila, Maritoni Fer-nandez, Bibeth Orte-za, Melissa De Leon, Patty Betita, and Jim Paredes to speak be-fore participants dur-ing the breakout ses-sions. With a minimal registration fee of P100, participants will have the chance to listen to experts talk about Breast Cancer 101, managing the side effects of cancer treatment, what to

expect five years af-ter remission, exer-cise and eating right, cancer causing foods, looking good during cancer, breast can-cer in the young, and many more. Local personali-ties like Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte will be around to support the cause as well as Dawn Zulueta. Both are supporters of ICanServe’s “Ating Dibdibin” barangay-based breast cancer screening program. Participants are also given access to a free breast clinic. Silver Linings is

collaborating with Davao partners such as Smiles, Living Hope, Amuma, Davao Associations for Can-cer Awareness Inc and the Department of Surgery of Davao Doctors Hospital. For pre-regis-tration, interested individuals may vis-it www.icanserve-foundation.org or get registration forms from Grand Regal Hotel front desk, Ristorante Spirale, Buona Terra Deli, Blugre Coffee, SM City and Matina Town Square. (PIA-11)


More women die sans RH Bill – advocatesDAVAO CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) – Davaoeño advocates and supporters of the reproductive health beefed up the crusade for the expeditious passage of RH Bill, stressing that the more the legislation is delayed, more women are dying.

by Carina L. Cayon

Women and men, including youth and Catholic advocates representing the gov-ernment, civil society organizations, busi-ness sector and the communities yester-day staged a symbolic and celebratory cer-emony for the launch-ing of the Purple Rib-bon Campaign. The City Popula-tion Division of the City Health Office and the group of Catholic la-ity called Catholics for Reproductive Health (C4RH) spearheaded the campaign to call on legislators, partic-ularly the Congress, to finally decide favor-ably and promptly on RH Bill. Either clad in pur-ple shirts or wearing

purple ribbons, over 300 Davaoeños gath-ered late afternoon on September 7, at Peo-ple’s Park in Davao City to express their support and clamor in various presentations such as cultural shows and purple candle and torch parades. “The more we prolong the passage of the RH Bill, the more women are dying,” stressed Jeff Fuentes, Davao Coordinator for the Purple Ribbon Campaign which was launched simultane-ously with Baguio City, Iloilo City and Quezon City. “The conclusion of the 11-year old de-bate on the RH bill is now in the hands of Congress. The women

and men of the 15th Congress must be re-minded that it is their responsibility to re-solve the impasse and allow each member to vote on the bill,” he said. Fuentes bared that studies have shown 11 women die everyday due to preg-nancy related compli-cations. “One is even too much,” he told the Davao media in a press conference held in the morning yester-day. Davao City Coun-cilor Leah Librado-Yap said that it’s high time that the Senate and Congress pass the Bill for the local govern-ment to enact on it making more people understand including

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the church and cler-gy. Librado-Yap said the RH Bill is the key element to address pregnancy-related mortality. F u e n t e s though expressed optimism that the Bi l l wi l l eventual-ly gain the favor-able nods of the undecided legis-lators consider-ing its inclusion to the priority l ist of President Benigno Aquino. “Nowhere in the history of the RH bill where political lead-ers, including the President, cabinet secretaries, and con-gressional leaders, have openly endorsed the bill,” he stated.

“While the lead-ers of the Catholic Church were able to expand their allies in Congress, RH champi-on-legislators remain superior in numbers and arguments,” said Fuentes who is also the Davao Chapter coordinator for C4RH. Fuentes also claimed that majority of Filipino Catholics and other religions have expressed sup-port to RH and RH Bill according to surveys. This only signifies that “there is nothing contradictory between religious foundations and the principles promoted by RH,” he said, raising the im-portance of popular-izing the thought that “religion and repro-

ductive health are not enemies but are mu-tually complementing each other in the light of celebrating human freedom and human rights.” C4RH is a move-ment organized by a group of Catholic lay leaders who believe that “Catholicism and Repro-ductive health promote the same principles of respect for human rights and human dignity.” Aside from the cultural presentation and candle lighting, the groups earlier held a motorcade which gathered about 100 supporters who made their voice heard as they pass through the major thoroughfares of Davao City. (PIA-11)

Davao youth group unifies support to RH BillDAVAO CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) – A mixed group of youth from three barangays here has shown assertion on their reproductive health rights as they unified support with the adult advocates to push for the passage of RH Bill.

by Carina L. Cayon

More women... from page 22

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The young RH advocates who formed and called themselves “HAPY on ASRHR” was among the Davaoeño advocates and supporters who staged various actions yesterday to intensify the campaign in favor of the RH Bill during the Purple Ribbon Campaign launching in the city. The HAPY on ASRHR which stands for Hizon-Angliongto-Pampanga Youth on Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights, has a membership of 58 adolescents aged 13-27 years old. The Hizon, Angliongto and Pampanga are barangays of Davao City. “We are here to show that the youth have also the rights to reproductive health,” said HAPY on ASRHR president John Carlo Olmoguez who is 21 years old.

Olmoguez said that their organization was purposely organized in October last year with the help of Davao-based Development People’s Foundation, to carry the advocacy and promotion of reproductive health and rights for the youth sector. He told the Philippine Information Agency that the group is recognized by the respective barangay councils which signified their support to the youth through a memorandum of agreement. Olmoguez said that they have been conducting training and seminars for the youth within their communities that cover various health issues such as sexually transmitted infections, human immunodef i c iency v i r u s / a c q u i r e d immune deficiency

syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and reproductive health. HAPY on ASRHR secretary Gem Buela, 24, said the group is also capable of providing peer counseling to teenagers who would seek advices on problems such as early pregnancy, romantic relationship and domestic violence. Buela said they would refer such cases to appropriate service providers from the local government and non-government organizations. She bared that the organization is also handling responsible parenting forum for the parents in the communities and that there is regular film viewing every Sunday concerning topics on reproductive health. H o w e v e r , Olmoguez said their advocacy is not an easy chore, saying that they encounter a

Davao youth... from page 23

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lot of challenges along the way. A c c o r d i n g to him, the group received discrimination and d i s c o u r a g e m e n t from some parents and grandparents of teenagers whom HAPY on ASRHR is inviting to involve in their activities. For HAPY on ASRHR vice president Gino Gudmalin, the hardest part of promoting their cause is to be silent as pro-RH when inside the

church. Gudmalin, 25 yrs. old and a member of the Parish Youth Apostolate, said that while he has his personal stand on RH, he would not want to cause arguments with the blatant opposition of the parish leaders on the issue. “I will just go on with what I believe in regarding reproductive health, at the same time continue being a Catholic,” Gudmalin

stated raising the need for the youth to be made aware of their reproductive rights. For almost a year of existence, the HAPY on ASRHR was able to gain 35 membership from Barangay Pampanga, 20 from Barangay Hizon and three from Barangay Anglingto. The organization has a mixed of female and male members covering the sectors of students, out-of-school youth and the working. (PIA-11)

DOH holds 7th leg of LBK during Comval Family Health FairNABUNTURAN, Compostela Valley, Sept. 8 (PIA) – “Walang Iwanan sa Biyaheng Kalusugan!” (No one should be left behind in the journey to good health). Such was the battlecry of government officials during the sev-enth Leg of the Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan (LBK) health promotion cara-van of the Department of Health (DOH) at Maco

Municipal Gym in Maco, Compostella Valley on September 2-3. The province aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates. Thus, this year’s Family Health Fair – which is be-

ing held simultaneously with Day 2 of the DOH’s LBK today – “focuses on the health of mothers, newborns, children and families; nutrition, fam-ily planning and healthy lifestyle,” said Compos-

Davao youth... from page 24

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tella Valley governor Arturo T. Uy during the opening program of LBK yesterday. In 2008, the prov-ince declared Sept. 3 as Family Health Day through Executive Order 36-2008. This is the fourth year of the celebration of the occasion, said Pro-vincial Health Officer (PHO) Renato Basa-ñes. Doctor Ivanhoe Escartin, Division Head of the National Center for Health Promotion (NCHP) expressed his gratitude to the munic-ipality of Maco and the province of Compostella Valley. “The DOH is very grateful that you warm-ly and wholeheartedly received the LBK health promotion campaign,” he said. He however re-minded the participants that, “This shouldn’t happen only now. After this day, I hope that you will make regular visits to the health centers es-

pecially for checkups and if you are pregnant, and are due to give birth.” He stressed that’s one’s health is his own respon-sibility. “We are happy, ju-bilant and triumphant because of this very col-orful, successful, two-day event,” said Maco Mayor Arthur Carlos Vol-taire Rimando. “This cannot be overemphasized, but on behalf of the people of Maco, from the province to the barangay, down to the grassroots level, thank you,” Rimando said. “Rest assured that our health personnel will take care of the suste-nance of the health of the community,” he add-ed. Basanes said that it’s important for people to be aware of the health services that are avail-able in hospitals and health centers in Com-postella Valley. Uy said, “Health Secretary Enrique T.

Ona’s priority is to equip hospitals and rural health units (RHUs) with infrastructure. We would like to raise the aware-ness of the members of our community that we have the facilities to improve the health of every barangay; our hospitals and RHUs are well-equipped.” Uy also mentioned the desire of the prov-ince to reduce the rate of malnutrition through Bayan-Anihan, which was patterned after the vegetable gardens in the Gawad Kalinga (GK) vil-lage. He said they want-ed to expand this to the barangays in the next few years, to benefit poor families which are in much need of the nu-trition program. Dr. Escartin ac-knowledged the private partners of LBK which are: Victory Liner, Mela-wares, OMF Literature Inc., Air 21, Dakila – Philippine Collective for Modern Heroism, the Al-liance of Young Nurse

DOH holds... from page 26

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Leaders and Advocates International, Inc. (AYN-LA) as well as media partners Philippine Daily

Inquirer, UNTV, Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC), Center for Com-munity Journalism and

Development (CCJD) & the Philippine Press Institute (PPI). (IDS-Comval)

MAPEH teachers in Comval improve dancing skills NABUNTURAN, Compostela Valley, Sept. 8 (PIA) – There is more to folk dancing as found out by 307 Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (MAPEH) Teachers coming from the elementary and secondary public schools all over Compostela Valley. The training cum workshop on dancing skills was held on Au-gust 26-28 at the capi-tol and jointly spear-headed by the provincial government under Gov. Arturo Uy and the De-partment of Education under Schools Division Superintendent Alfonso Gomez. No ess than the members of the Phil-ippine Arts and Cul-ture Education Society (PACES) such as Dance Researcher and Cho-reographer Mary-An-gel S. Alastre, Mark P. Reyes, Bernard Andrew R. Reyes, and their Ex-

ecutive Director Ben-nylito R. Reyes taught them on 14 different Philippine Folk Dances. These are Cariño-sa, Polka sa Nayon, Ku-mintang, Pinal-ayon, Maria Capra Palueña, Sua-Ku-Sua, Ontanay, Tiklos, Kasanduanay, Ragragsakan, Malague-ña, Jota Moncadeña, Jota Batangueña, and Ilocana a Nasudi. Right on their first day, the MAPEH teachers were taught on the basic steps on folk dancing like Con-traganza Step, Brush Step, Tarok Step, Sa-rok Step, Salop Step,

Tortillier Step, Parallel Tortillier, Mazurca Step, Waltz Step, Habanera as well as how to do different Sway Balance techniques. According to Ru-ben Reponte, Education Supervisor for MAPEH, the registration fees are already shouldered by the provincial govern-ment. The 307 teach-ers who underwent training came from the 13 School Districts in the province, 182 of them came from Pub-lic Elementary Schools and 125 from the sec-ondary schools. (IDS-Comval/Fe Maestre)

DOH holds... from page 26


Youth advocates from the Hizon-Angliongto-Pampanga Youth on Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (HAPY on ASRHR) join their adult counterparts in the Purple Ribbon Campaign launching on September 7 at People’s Park in Davao City, to beef up crusade for the expeditious passage of the RH Bill. (PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon)

The youth sector is among the reproductive health advocate groups in Davao City who untiringly and continuously sup-port and campaign for the immediate passage of the Reproductive Health Bill, not only for the benefit of the Davaoeños but also for all Filipinos. The young advocates joined the Purple Ribbon Campaign launching on September 7 at People’s Park in Davao City. (PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon)

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