Cover story:

The Davao City Night Market

Pres. Aquino leads launch of expanded anti-HPV vaccination campaign

Soldiers participate in Bukidnon Lumad schools’ launching

South Cotabato to kick off agri aid after May 9 elections

DTI launches Negosyo Center in Plaridel, MisOcc

“Boil drinking water to prevent noro & rotaviruses,” DOH advises

Drainage unit ready for rainy season

DOT 12 encourages residents of the region to help promote tourism

DOH hosts media forum on HIV

Pres. Aquino graces mountain museum in Davao Oriental

“Register online and avail DepEd’s SH voucher program,” DSWD9 urges Pantawid G10 completers

DOE, PIA strengthen safety awareness of Liquefied Fuels, LPG in Ozamiz

PNP identifies all areas in Lanao del Sur under election watch list

Volunteers hold candidates forum in Iligan

PPCRV conducts ‘BAKLAY 2016’ for credible, peaceful elections

Police vows non-partisanship in May 9 polls

Comelec official to voters: Come to the polling place early

All systems go for May 9 polls in Zambo. Sur

ZNPPO signs Oath of Non-Partisanship

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PHILIPPINE INFORMATION AGENCYSouthern Mindanao (Davao Region)Ground Floor Kanto Motors, Bldg.,Quimpo Blvd., New MatinaDavao City 8000

Telephone no. (082)297-0991 / 301-8580Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 - 304-2044Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950Email: efelbanbuena@yahoo.com

Efren Elbanbuenacluster head, pia Mindanao

On Monday, May 9, more than 50 million Filipino voters will troop to their precinct to elect the president, vice president, 12 senators, congressman as well as their local chief executives (governor, vice governor, sangguniang panlalawigan members, city/municipal mayor, city/municipal vice mayor and city/municipal sanggunian members). This is quite a tedious election process because this is a national election.

But this is very crucial because we will elect the president and vice president who will lead us in the next six years. It is also very important for Filipino voters to think many many times who shall be elected that can lead us to a better future of our country. Preferably, we envision a president who possesses experience in governance, integrity, concern for the protection of environment, and promote the general welfare of Filipino people.

For us, Mindanawons, May 9 election is very important. It is our opportunity to elect a president who has a vision to make Mindanao as a center of development. Mindanao is regarded as the bread basket of the Philippines’ agricultural economy and now as a frontier to ASEAN through the BIMP. Never in the Philippine political history that we have elected a president who is identified as a Mindanawon, except, that we elected the late Vice President Emmanuel Pelaez who is from Mindanao.

Let us go out and vote. Let us exercise our right and perform our duty as a true Filipino. Let us protect our right of suffrage by ensuring that we will have an honest, orderly and peaceful election.

Padayon Mindanaw alang sa kalinaw ug kalamboan!!!

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The Davao City Night Market

An open drainage canal runs from the Freedom Park towards the Quezon Boulevard junction. Within the canal banks Neem, Mahogany trees and Hibiscus shrubs which provide shade and beauty to the avenue. In the late 1990s there were plans to establish an evening promenade for tourists in the avenue with night market and sidewalk cafes. It was in 2013 when the City Council of Davao approved the night market ordinance. One of the night market was established in Roxas. The idea of having night

Roxas Avenue is a wide thoroughfare that connects

the main street of C.M. Recto, formerly Claveriaand Quezon Boulevard. Its points of interest include Clifford Park which is named after Col. Thomas Edgar Clifford who died during the liberation of Davao in World War II; Millennium Park, the city’s freedom park; Marco Polo Hotel, the college campus of Ateneo de Davao and the Post Office.

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The Davao City Night Market markets was to address the problem of sidewalk vendors that had congested San Pedro Streets and the City Hall area. The avenue was selected because it was wide and was underutilized during the evening as it had little vehicular traffic. The Roxas Night Market at firstwas met with opposition from street vendors relocated from San Pedro as it would be depriving them of their livelihood. At that time, Roxas Avenue was devoid of human trafficas compared to the busy San Pedro Street. In the Roxas Night Market, vendors were provided with 1.5 x 2 meters of space paying a rental fee of 25 pesos per day. From 5 p.m. vendors would start setting up their stalls as the six-lane-avenue would be reduced to two. The vendors’ apprehension would later fade as the night market attracted droves of people. Today the night market is one of the major destinations in Roxas Avenue, making it one of the liveliest places in the city at night. In 2015 the night market contributed P4-million for the city’s coffers. The night market is divided into sections. Brand new merchandises is

located in the

westernmost side near the Millennium Park. This is where you’ll find clothes, footwear, bags, cellularphone accessories, fashion accessories and DVDs. This is also where the famed massage therapists ply their trade. After the Padre Gomez intersection isthefoodsectionwhereonecanfindstreet food, barbeque stalls and ice cream carts. This is where one can fall in line and wait for hours at the famous Mang Danny’s ice cream. Aside from stalls,youcanfindbarbequeeateriesand restaurants along the avenue. Passing the Artiaga intersection is the ukay-ukay stalls where one can get bargains for second-hand clothes, shoes and bags. There is a planned expansion where the night market will go all the way to the junction of Quezon Boulevard. Currently there are 690 vendors in the night market. Vendors selling accessories number 180, food vendors about 160, ukay-ukay vendors number about 350. Among the planned improvements include stall for decorative lighting, uniform, signages, landscaping and nightly band performances. The night market in Davao has indeed grown from a desolate street to one of Davao City’s top nightly attractions. (Rudolph Alama/PIA11)

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The Chief Executive noted that the nationwide vaccination campaign against HPV is part of government effortstofightcervicalcancer,whichclaims 12 lives each day in the country. “Kaya naman pinalawak natin ang programang ito; mula sa implementasyon nito sa mga

paaralan lamang, ipinapatupad narin natin ito sa buong komunidad simula noong nakaraang taon. Suma-tutalpo, ang target namabakunahan ng Phase 1 at Phase 2 ng programa: 690,000 nakababaihan, mula 9 hanggang 10 taonggulang, sa 47 na probinsya, kasama na ang Iloilo,” he said.

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Pres. Aquino leads launch of expanded anti-HPV vaccination campaignPresident Benigno S. Aquino III on Tuesday (May 3)

led the launch of the nationwide Expanded Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Community-Based Vaccination

Program, aimed at combating cervical cancer in the country.

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Pres. Aquino leads launch of expanded anti-HPV vaccination campaign

The President also reported that the government has already launched an anti-dengue vaccination campaign that targets school children across the country. “Nito pong Abril, inilunsad natin ang dengue vaccine immunization sa mga public schools sa Region 3, 4-A at NCR (National Capital Region),” he said. “Ito po ang mga lugar na unang tinutukan dahil sila ang may pinakamaraming insidente ng dengue. Ang sabi ng apo sa akin, hindi 100 percent maiiwasa na ng pagkakaroon ng sakit gamit ang bakuna. Pero sa tulong nito, 93 percent ang nabawas sa severity o malubhang epekto ng dengue, at 81 percent naman ang na ibaba sa hospitalization ng mga nagkaroon dengue.” He said that according to Health Secretary Janet Garin, pentavalent vaccines against hepatitis B, meningitis and pneumonia, which have been sold to the private sector since 2003, have been made available to the general public for free since 2012. “Ang pneumonia vaccine para sa bata na meron na rin sa pribadong sektor noon pang 2006, ay librena ring naipagkakaloob sa publiko mula noong 2013. Isipin din ninyo: 1985 pa available sa pribadong sektor ang booster dose para sa measles, mumps at rubella. Nito pong 2015, sinimulan narin natinang school-based immunization laban sa mga ito, pati na rin sa tetanus at diphtheria,” he added. The President further noted that under his term, the budget of the Department of Health has increased by more than 300 percent. “Gamit ang pondo ng ito, pinaunlad natin ang mga pasilidad pangkalusugan sa ating bansa. Sa ilalim ng ating Health Facilities Enhancement Program, P682.54 million na ang inilaan natin sa pagpapaunlad ng 94 barangay health stations, 46 rural health units at urban health centers, at 12 na ospital dito sa Iloilo. Mula naman 2010

hanggang 2015, nag-deploy tayo ng 12 na doktor, 1,456 nurses, 263 midwives, 2 dentista, 4 nutritionists, at 20 public health associates sa inyong mga liblib na komunidad,” he said, adding that PhilHealth now covers 1.8 million Ilonggos. The HPV, the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract, causes a range of conditions in both females and males, including precancerous lesions that may progress to become cancerous. Although, the majority of HPV infections do not cause symptoms or disease and resolve spontaneously, persistent infection with high-risk HP genotypes may result in disease. In women, persistent infection withspecifictypesofHPV,mostfrequently types 16 and 18, may lead to precancerous lesions, which, if untreated, may progress to cervical cancer. The HPV vaccines should be introduced as part of a coordinated and comprehensive strategy to prevent cervical cancer and other diseases caused by HPV. The HPV vaccination is a primary prevention tool and does not eliminate the need for screening later in life, since the vaccine does not protect against all high-risk HPV types. (PCOO)

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Soldiers participate in Bukidnon Lumad schools’ launchingMALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Soldiers of the 8th Infantry Battalion and 403rd Infantry Brigade of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division participated in the April 27 launching of the construction of 40 IP schools in the province of Bukidnon, held at Brgy. Bancud, Malaybalay City. Provincialofficialssaid39ofsaidschools were funded through KALAHI CIDSS while one school was funded through the Assisi Foundation. The activity also kicks off the “Brigada Eskwela” that is initiated by the Department of Education. Both the 8th Infantry Battalion and the 403rd Infantry Brigade are active participants in the “Brigada Eskwela” activities in

the province of Bukidnon. Recently, it has been discovered that NPA cohorts hiding behind legal organizations and left-leaning groups have been funding the creation of communist schools which radicalize the minds of the Lumad children in the guise of IP schools in the province of Bukidnon. The “Brigada Eskwela” kick off

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Soldiers participate in Bukidnon Lumad schools’ launching

focusing on authorized IP schools in Bukidnon holds the potential to prevent such groups from radicalizing the minds of the IP children and truly give them the education that these Lumad children deserve. Meanwhile, the 8th Infantry Battalion has been helping the Department of Education, the LGUs and the Lumad communities through its “Dependable Peacebook” Project, which is focused at donating and distributing children’s books to schools which are in IP dominated communities inorder to promote good moral values and discourage violence as means of solving problems. In his statement, 1Lt. Erwin P. Bugarin(INF)PA,commandingofficerofCharlie Company, 8th Infantry Battalion who attended the event, emphasized the importance of education for every child especially the Lumads. He also assured the participants on the Philippine Army’s commitment to support the government’s thrust of allowing every child the right to education. “Education is a right and not just a need. Hence, education is not just for one, it is for everyone. Such right is for all, regardless of age, race or tribe. In support to this, the Philippine Army extends its service. Instead of carrying firearms,webringwithusonly threethings; a pair of helping hands, a strong will to serve, and a passionate heart for the people. ‘Serving the people, securing the land’. Every soldier abides and lives by this Army core purpose instilled onto our hearts, minds and souls.” Lt Bugarin said. (Norman Tagros/PIA10)

South Cotabato to kick off agri aid after May 9 electionsKORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato - After the national and local elections on May 9, the provincial government here will immediately begin handing out agricultural production support to farmers affected by the drought, an official announced. Justina Navarrete, provincial agriculturist, said the provincial government hasmadereadycertifiedriceandcornseed,vegetable seeds, coconut seedlings and other production inputs to be distributedto farmers hit by the El Nino that started in November, 2015. A list of beneficiaries has beenprepared and will be used as basis in the relief operations, she added. However, Navarrete clarified thatthe provincial government can not provide for 100 percent of the farmers’ needs to recover losses from almost seven months of dry spell. “For each hectare, the provincial governmentcanonlygive1sackofcertifiedseeds,” she noted. In the past few days, a large part of South Cotabato and other provinces of SOCCSKSARGEN haveexperienced moderate to heavy rains. “We are urging the farmers to begin land preparation and get ready for the distribution of theseeds,” Navarrete said. When South Cotabato declared state ofcalamityonMarch21,theOfficeoftheProvincial Agriculturist reported that the El Ninohas affected 9,380 farmers and at least 11,011 hectares of rice, corn, high valuecropsandinlandfishponds. After the Commission on Elections favored South Cotabato’s petition to be allowed to use its QuickResponse Fund, the provincial government began handing out rice packs to drought-hit families onApril 27. At least 85,000 families are being targeted for the rice distribution being managed by the PhilippineRed Cross. (Danny E. Doguiles/PIA12)

DTI launches Negosyo Center in Plaridel, MisOccPLARIDEL, Misamis Occidental - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Misamis Occidental provincial office recently launched a Negosyo Center in Plaridel town. The launching ceremony was held in front of the Negosyo Center at the Plaridel Bagsakan Center, Northern Poblacion, Plaridel, Misamis Occidental. The center shares the huge Bagsakan Center Building with the Municipal Economic Enterprise DeveLopmentOffice(MEEDO),thelocalwater district, some MSME tenants and the Integrated Bus Terminal. Negosyo Center-Plaridel is the first local government unit (LGU)based Negosyo Center opened in the province. The launching is the third in Misamis Occidental, 11th in Region 10 and 158th in the country since 2014 in the continued implementation of Republic Act 10644, “An Act Promoting Job Generation and Inclusive Growth through the Development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)” otherwise known as the “Go Negosyo Act” authored by Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino. Dignitaries who came to the launching included a representative of Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino, Simon Aquino-Valencia, DTI Trade and Industry Regional Director Linda O. Boniao, Sectoral Representative of the cooperative sector of the National Anti-Poverty Commission Gadwin E. Handumon and Negosyo Center Regional Coordinator Maria Cristina S. Gabia. Others in attendance were the representative of the Provincial

Governor--Gerardo O. Robin, Oroquieta City Branch Manager of the Land Bank of the Philippines Lily Nine P. Singson, and Oroquieta City Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Eric C. Avila. Provincial Caretaker Jane Marie L. Tabucan acknowledged the presence of partners of potential and existing MSMEs, civil society organizations (CSOs), barangay officials and localgovernment unit (LGU) team of head ofoffices,divisionchiefsandstaff. Among others, the lady caretaker highlighted the warm and exceptional support of Mayor Diego “Nonoy” C. Ty throughout the process until this launching. Director Boniao echoed the mandate of the agency underscoring business development through the Negosyo Center which will be responsible for promoting ease of doing business

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DTI launches Negosyo Center in Plaridel, MisOcc

and facilitating access to services such as business registration assistance, business advisory, business information and advocacy and monitoring and evaluation for MSMEs in the municipality and nearby towns. Establishment of the Negosyo Centers in the country was made possible through the efforts of Senator Bam Aquino who is compassionate to the MSME sector; hence, deserving of everyone’s gratitude, she said. In his keynote speech, Aquino-Valencia expressed his joy and excitement to arrive in this part of thecountry forthefirst timeandhasthanked the hospitality of the good people of Plaridel especially by Mayor Ty. Valencia took pride of the accomplishment of Senator Bam Aquino saying “RA 10644 really seeks to address poverty across the country.” He said that to the burning desire of the senator to help his countrymen, he once said he would retire once the bill is signed into law. However, as the bill was finallypassed, approved and signed, the senator said it was a challenging point for him to draft more bills that could really help the Filipino people raise their quality of life. Plaridel town mayor Ty said he is very thankful to the Department of Trade and Industry officers and staffthat helped his administration bring another milestone accomplishment for his constituents. “The fact that Negosyo Center-PlaridelisthefirstNClaunchedinthemunicipality in our province is itself a distinction, and we are honored to that,” said the Mayor. He also emphasized that although he has been talking to the senator’s representative Simon Aquino-Valencia over the phone for quite a long time, it was his first meeting with him

throughout those years and he could not help but express his whole-hearted thanks to the support the senator has extended to his administration and to the people of Plaridel. Provincial Administrative OfficerGerardo O. Robin who represented Governor Herminia M. Ramiro congratulated the local government unit of Plaridel for the significantaccomplishment. Robin said the message of the lady governor of continued support to all worthy projects for the people of Plaridel and the people of Misamis Occidental. Meanwhile, the NAPC sectoral representative welcomed the establishment of the Negosyo Center which as he said, is expected to spur economic development in the place that will eventually impact on poverty alleviation. He congratulated the DTI, the LGU, Provincial SMED Council, the Negosyo Center Industry Partners and all the stakeholders for this accomplishment towards realization of inclusive growth. The Provincial SMED Council and the DTI earlier determined three Negosyo Centers to be established in 2016; namely, Negosyo Center-Tangub, Negosyo Center-Plaridel and Negosyo Center-Jimenez taking into account the economic growth areas in the province. The Provincial SMED Council was represented during the launching by the president of the Oroquieta City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. Provincial Caretaker Tabucan thanked everyone for their presence and for the success of the launching while she also hinted that it is always the convergence of efforts among all stakeholders that will keep the center working in its full potential. (Methusael Lumantas/PIA10)

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“Boil drinking water to prevent noro & rotaviruses,” DOH advisesZAMBOANGA CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) here yesterday (May 3) advised residents to be careful with their drinking water, whether they come from the faucets or even from water refilling stations, as cases of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) continue to be documented and has reached outbreak level. “We have collected samples of water and we discovered fecal materials,” said DOH division chief Dr. Agnes Mabolo. Dr. Mabolo said that to be safe, people must first boil their drinkingwaterforfiveminutes. “We advise you to boil your drinking water, regardless of whether it’s from the water district or from the waterrefillingstations,”shesaid.Sherevealed that 70% of the patients get their water from the refillingstations. According to thehealthofficial,they noted majority of the cases come from the following barangays: Mampang, Sta. Catalina, Sta. Barbara, Talon-Talon, Pasonanca, San Roque, and Upper Calarian. Earlier, the City Health Office(CHO) has expressed alarm over the increase in cases of diarrhea brought about by the norovirus. Dr. Mabolo clarified that based on theirfindings,therearemorecasesoftherotavirus, which is a common disease in the Philippines. Norovirus on the other hand is common in the United States. “They exhibit the same symptoms,

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“Boil drinking water to prevent noro & rotaviruses,” DOH advises

but rotavirus is less resistant than noravirus,” she explained. She advised the regular use of alcohol and hand sanitizers, and to practice good hygiene and sanitation. Meanwhile, a task force to help address the outbreak here will be created composed of the DOH, the

CHO, and the Zamboanga City Water District, pending the issuance of an executive order from Mayor Beng Climaco-Salazar. “The main function of the task force is to ensure that our drinking water is safe,” Dr. Mabolo said. (Dominic I. Sanchez/PIA9)

Drainage unit ready for rainy seasonDAVAO CITY - The Drainage Management and Demolition Unit (DMDU) of the Davao City government is ready for the onset of the rainy season. Yusop Jimlani, chief of the DMDU said the personnel is doing canal cleaning and de-clogging as requested by thebarangayofficialsof thecity.He said they are following the request of the barangay in cleaning up the canals. Jimlani also appealed to the public not to throw their wastes in the canals as it is the one of the main sourceofflooding. According to PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration) the El Niño is expected to gradually weaken from March to May and return to neutral

condition by May to July which is the onset of the rainy season. Apart from cleaning and de-clogging, the drainage improvement project in the city implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is nearing completion. Among the completed projects include the rehabilitation and improvement of the maindrainalong Quirino Avenue, Camus, Legazpi, F. Iñigo, Ponciano, Bonifacio, Torres and Jacinto Extension Streets. (RG Alama/PIA11)

DOT 12 encourages residents of the region to help promote tourism

DOT 12 regional director Nelly Nita Dillera noted that with the help of the people, tourism sector could be promoted especially to those who give negative comments in the region

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato - The Department of Tourism (DOT ) here in the region is encouraging the people of SOCCSKSARGEN to be advocates of tourism.

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being part of Mindanao, known as war- affected place. “We don’t have to be Ms. Tourism in a pageant, we don’t have to be a tourism ambassador for us to be able to promote Region 12,” Dillera emphasized adding that by being proud of what the region has to offer is a good way of being part of tourism. Further, she said that knowing something positive about the region and sharing it to other people could help advance tourism. In a recently launched Flavors of SOX, Dillera said that aside from the natural resources, food is also a plus point in the region when it comes to tourism. “From food to natural sites like caves, rivers, beaches and many others, SOCCSKSARGEN Region is a world class spot,” the regional director stated. She also emphasized that what

makes the tourist spots and food in the region more interesting is the culture behind these. Region 12, according to Dillera is home to cultural groups where the rich culture blends with the beauty of nature. With this, the department does not only encourages the people to promote tourism but also to protect the culture of the minorities in tourism spots. Meanwhile, this year, tourism in the region will be focusing on four themes namely, SOX Summer, Treasures of SOX, Flavors of SOX and the First People of SOX. This according to Dillera is to offer to people an overall experience not only of nature but nature at its best emphasizing cultural groups that make the place delicious because of the foods and colorful because of the arts and crafts. (SJ Duerme/PIA12)

SOCCSKSARGEN Region’s Department of Tourism invites visitors to enjoy the region’s many destinations, including Lake Sebu (in picture) where they could take pleasure from the priceless experience with the Tboli culture, cuisine or simply take a day off in it’s tranquil lake.

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DOH hosts media forum on HIVIPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – The Health Promotion and Communication Unit of the Department of Health-9, in coordination with the Provincial Health Office conducted a media forum on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)yesterday at Roderic’s Resort, this municipality. The activity also aimed to create more awareness on the Philippine International Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome(AIDS) Candlelight Memorial on May 14. “According to Department Memorandum No. 0136 from the DOH Undersecretary, Dr. Vincent Y. Belesario, Jr., the AIDS Day is a global event to commemorate those who died of AIDS. All are encouraged to light candles from 6:00 o’clock to 7:00 o’clock in the evening. Schools, establishments and officesareencouragedtodisplaybannersatthe facade from May 9 to 14 to show support to the event,” Ms. Clarissa A. Jose, Regional HIV program coordinator quoted. Ms. Jose said, “from 1984 to present, there were 24 HIV cases reported in Zamboanga Sibugay. They were given proper medication. We have two HIV proficientmedical technicians in the province who are well-trained to check and test high risk patients.” The Department of Health urged everyone to get to know more about the

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Pres. Aquino graces mountain museum in Davao OrientalDAVAO CITY- President Benigno Aquino III personally graced the formal opening of the Mt. Hamiguitan Natural Science Museum in San Isidro, Davao Oriental held yesterday (May 4). The President in his speech highlighted forest area protection, capacity-building for management, wildlife enforcement, eco-tourism and biodiversity monitoring in the conservation of the Mt. Hamiguitan Range and Wildlife Sanctuary (MHRWS) where the museum is located. He also cited the P236.36-million for the construction 4.9 kilometer access road which includes a 40- meter lineal road to provide access to the natural park. “Sisigla ang local na turismo na maghahatid ng oportunidad sa mga taga Davao Oriental particular nasa San Isidro, Alam nyo po kada isang foreign tourist arrival tinatayang may isang trabahong nililikha para ating kababayan Filipino.” (This will enliven local tourism and bring opportunities to the people in Davao Oriental particularly in San Isidro. Do you know that one foreign tourist arrival is estimated to create one job for Filipinos,) the President said in his speech. The President arrived at around 3 o’clock in the afternoon who proceeded to tour the P42-million museum after the unveiling the Mt. Hamiguitan marker. He was accompanied

consequences of AIDs, practice safe sex, know one’s status, have HIV testing for the public good as DOH health programs are anchored on the theme “TSeKAP: Tamang Serbisyo para sa Kalusugan ng Pamilyang Pilipino.” M e a n w h i l e , Development and Management Officer Dr.Augusto Manolo G. Alpichi said the DOH will put up 28 health stations in Sibugay to cater to the needs of voters, poll watchers, teachers and all those directly involved in the election process on May 9. These will be located in the schoolprincipal’sofficesorschool clinics. The nurses are part of the nurses’ deployment program of the government. “There are four development management officers (DMO) in theprovince. Each DMO takes care of four municipalities as we have a total of 16 municipalities.For Sibugay, there are 130 health packages which include stethoscope, thermometer, dressing kit and other apparatus which cost P34,000 per kit,” according to Alpichi. (Rhea Grace A. La Plana/PIA9)

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Pres. Aquino graces mountain museum in Davao Oriental

by Mindanao Development Authority Chair, Secretary LualhatiAntonino. Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon, Davao Oriental First District Representative Nelson Dayanghirang and San Isidro Mayor Tina Yu along with provincial and municipal officials welcomed thePresident during his visit. The natural science museum is the centerpiece of the 128-hectare eco-park and interpretation site which includes a research center, cabins for researchers and tourists, campinggrounds,butterflysanctuary,

mountain trails, souvenir shop and restaurant. The eco-park is part of the Mt. HamiguitanBufffer zone. The MHRWS was inscribed as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO onJune23,2014.ThefirstandonlyUNESCO inscribed mountain range in Mindanao. It is the home to 1,380 species of plants and animals of which 341 are considered endemic. Most famous of its attraction is the 225-hectare pygmyforestfilledwithbonsaitrees. (RG Alama/PIA11)

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DOE, PIA strengthen safety awareness of Liquefied Fuels, LPG in OzamizCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Energy – Oil Industry Management Bureau (DOE-OIMB) in collaboration with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-10 recently conducted a briefing in Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental on Liquefied Fuels (LF) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) laws, rules and regulations to inform and empower the stakeholders to become more cautious especially on the safety of LF and LPG products in their areas. DOE-OIMB Officer In-ChargeDirector Rodela I. Romero said it is important to follow every precaution set by DOE to ensure the safety of every individual as well as observe the Republic Act No. (RA) 8479 otherwise known as “The Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act of 1998.” “All gas stations should comply with product quality and safety signs, among others,” Romero said. On the other hand, lawyer Angelito V. Agoncillo of DOE-Hearing Division, talked

onregulatoryframeworkspecificallyonpenalties and corresponding fines incase gas stations do not comply with requirements. He said one of the most common illegaloffensesisadulterationofliquefiedfuels. Agoncillo also emphasized the importance in complying with DOE requirements. “We require a person who will engage in the business of retailing LPG to apply for Standard Compliance Certificate (SCC); this certificate is

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DOE, PIA strengthen safety awareness of Liquefied Fuels, LPG in Ozamiz

effective for three years, “he said. Further, Alex H. Rayos DOE-Retail Market Monitoring and Special Concerns Division (RMMSCD) cited the characteristics of LPG. In the Philippines, Rayos said that LPG is essentially a mixture of 60% butane and 40% propane. However, there is a great danger if the released gas is not properly dissipated since it will readily ignite upon contact withsparks,openflame,oranyothersource of ignition,” he added. He clarified that LPG is non-poisonous and environment friendly. Meanwhile, LPG must be handled properlyandmustbeonlyrefilledinthecompany’srefillingplant.Healsourgedconsumers to check the LPG cylinders for proper weight and whether it has correct seal or manufactured legally. Meanwhile, Loralai Capistrano of DOE – RMMSCD emphasized the need for a collaborative action between the local government unit, Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection to put a stop in the illegal trading of “bote-bote” or fuels sold in liters of bottles along the road. Capistrano said that LGUs can pass and implement local ordinances that will support the implementation of DOErulesandregulationsonLiquefiedPetroleum Products and LPG. After the briefing, RusticoElumbaring Jr of the CSI Global Services Corporation led the hands-on demonstration in calibration and sealing of a dispensing pump in a nearby gasoline station. ThebriefingwhichwasheldlastApril 26 was attended by information officers of national governmentagencies, Ozamiz business chamber, media, petroleum and LPG dealers, private individuals and other concerned entities. (Joemides Daquio/PIA10)

“Register online and avail DepEd’s SH voucher program,” DSWD9 urges Pantawid G10 completers IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay - The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office IX urged all Pantawid Pamilya Grade 10 completers to avail the Senior High voucher program of the Department of Education thru online registration. Pantawid Regional Information Officer Ivan Eric Salvador said basedon the generated results of Compliance VerificationSysteminRegionIX,thereare more than 23,000 monitored children who have completed their junior high school education in 655 high school facilities region-wide. The registration in the said program will ensure educational financial support for senior highschool.Qualified recipientswhocamefrom public junior high schools (JHS) and state universities and colleges (SUC/LUC) JHS are entitled for 100% voucher value. Meanwhile, 80% full voucher value shall be given to Grade 10 Education Service Contracting (ESC) grantees who have completed their JHS in ESC participating schools. The Senior High School Voucher Program (SHS VP) is a mechanism to provide financial assistance to senior

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high school students in line with DepEd Order No. 11 series of 2015. It envisions to be a long-term program of the government that will empower students with choice to pursue their desired senior high school education. This form of public-private partnership is expected to enhance dynamism and diversity in the education system and to provide private schools with financial resources needed for thetransition to a 12-year basic education system. DSWD Regional Director, Atty.Araceli F. Solamillo encouraged all Pantawid Pamilya high school beneficiaries to apply and grab theopportunity to get the educational support through the voucher program and enroll in Senior High School ready facilities nearest their area. She stressed out that the upcoming

senior high beneficiaries will still bemonitored and education compliance shall have a great effect once they failed to enroll considering the limited senior high ready facilities in the region. DSWD has already enforced all municipal and city links to assist the Pantawid children in their online application. These beneficiariesare reminded that the deadline for application shall only be until May 6, 2016. The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program has expanded its coverage forchildrenbeneficiariesuntil18yearsofageoruntiltheyfinishhighschool.The said expansion sought to prepare the beneficiaries to be equipped inthe future by acquiring skills which complemented in the Kto12 program of DepEd. (Alma Tingcang/PIA9)

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PPCRV conducts ‘BAKLAY 2016’ for credible, peaceful electionsILIGAN CITY — Around 2,000 residents of this city joined the BAKLAY (Walk for A Cause) spearheaded by the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) here recently. Rev. Fr. Rosito M. Claro, PPCRV provincial coordinator for Iligan City and Lanao del Norte, said BAKLAY stands for “Botar Alang sa Kalambuan, Lihok Alang sa Yanong katawhan.” “We have initiated this activity, expressing the people’s cry for a fair, clean, honest and peaceful election on May 9, 2016. The walk ended at the

city public plaza for a program and a Citizen Signing of Covenant,” Fr. Claro said. He said they encouraged those who joined the walk to wear white T-shirt with a reminder at the back of the shirt “My Vote is Not for Sale.” The voters were also reminded to shun candidates involved in vote-

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22buying and other irregularities. “One good vote is all we advocate for this BAKLAY activity. Vote according to your will and your own choice, not according to the amount handed by the candidates in exchange of your vote,” Fr. Claro said adding “elect those who are willing to serve the people in a simple way, not those who want to serve to make their pockets full.” With PPCRV, other speakers during the program include representatives from the Commission on Elections, the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine Army, Iligan City Police Office, and Diocese ofIligan represented by Bishop Elenito D. Galido. Different parishes of Iligan including Lanao del Norte joined the event, with the participation of the civic/religious organizations, sisters and priests from different

congregation, private schools, and concerned individuals. “One thing that makes this BAKLAY unique is we let the citizens sign a covenant instead of the regular Peace Covenant Signing executed by all political candidates,” Fr. Claro. “This time, we call it in our vernacular dialect ‘Baruganan’ of which you sign with integrity. The Baruganan statement specificallystressed that as a citizen of this country, you are against election fraud and irregularities during the conduct of election, and be watchful to effect a peaceful, fair, and honest casting of votes on the day of May Election 2016.” “Boto Ko Dangal Ko, Ipagtatanggol Ko simply means my vote is my integrity for which I stand,” Fr. Claro concluded. (Lorry Gabule/ PIA10)

Police vows non-partisanship in May 9 pollsKORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato - Police authorities in South Cobato have pledged to remain neutral in the upcoming national and local elections. South Cotabato police director PSSupt. Franklin Alvero, led police troops of the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office in the signing ofthe Oath of Non-partisanship on Monday, May 2. In an interview, PSupt. Rogelio Abran Jr., SCPPO deputy director for operations, said taking the oath

of non-partisanship reminds police officers to refrain from any activeparticipation in political activities that would constitute campaigning. Instead,policeofficers,shouldprotect and maintain the integrity of the ballots and the credibility of the elections. The pledge reads: “We the

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Police vows non-partisanship in May 9 polls

members of the Philippine National Police do hereby pledge that we shall not engage in any partisan political activity during the upcoming national and local elections. “We shall be free from any party affiliation or exhibit any bias togroup, party or cause. “We shall uphold the will of

the electorate b y p r o t e c t i n g a n d maintaining the integrity of the ballots and the credibility of the elections. “Toward this end, we shall conduct ourselves as professional policeofficersworthyofthetrustandconfidence of the Filipino people.” (DEDoguiles/PIA12)

All systems go for May 9 polls in Zambo. SurPAGADIAN CITY – With only a few days left before the May 9 national and local elections, the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Commission on Elections and Department of Education assured the public that they are ready for the successful conduct of elections in the province.

Top level officials of the PNP,AFP, Comelec and DepEd on Saturday attended the final conferenceof the joint peace and security coordinating council (JPSCC) presided over by provincial director Senior Superintendent Michael Nicolas at the conference room of Zamboanga del Sur Poilice Provincial Office, CampAbelon, Tuburan District here. Police Senior Superintendent Michael Nicolas, police provincial

director, said the JPSCC came up with the best practice to ensure safe, credible and honest elections. Nicolas encouraged the council to be united saying that the elections are an important event. “Let us be united in all our actions for this is a very important national event. We want that this endeavor be successful and the voters be heard thru the ballots as they exercise the right of suffrage,” Nicolas urged.

Nicolas said the JPSCC plays “a very critical role in the elections that the international and local communities are watching for.” Chief Inspector Acer Noah Aniversario, chief of operations, also said the PNP and AFP laid down their security plan to ensure a peaceful, orderly and honest balloting. Aniversario said the plan includes deployment of personnel and the delivery of vote-counting machines (VCM)to the polling centers.The JPSCC is providing/assigning two policemen per polling center since the order from the higher headquarters is to implement the ratio of 2:1 meaning, two policemen in one poling center. Nicolas said the JPSCC is now ready to deliver the VCMs from Ozamis City to the polling centers. It has been the policy of the Comelec that the electronic voting and counting equipment should be delivered to polling stations days prior to election day and be issued to designated persons using appropriate handover procedures and documentation.

PNP identifies all areas in Lanao del Sur under election watch listMARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - All areas in Lanao del Sur were placed under election watchlist by the Philippine National Police (PNP). Police Chief Inspector Abubakar Alah, Police Community Relations officerofPNPLanaodelSur,said27municipalities were identified underCategory 2 Election Watchlist Areas (EWAs)while16areaswereclassifiedunder Category 3. PCIAlahsaidareasareclassifiedunder Category 2 when there are serious armed threats posed by organized threat groups in the areas. Category 3 EWAS on the other hand, are areas where politically motivated violent incidents are likely to occur due to intense political rivalries and the presence of armed groups. Placed under Category 3 are Marawi City and the towns of Butig, Bacolod Kalawi, Balabagan, Balindong, Marogong, Maguing, Masiu, Madalum, Malabang, Pagayawan, Tamparan, and Tugaya. As a result, PNP is further intensifying the conduct of checkpoints and chokepoints operations in the entire province to confiscate loosefirearmstoensurethatsuchfirearmswill not be used during elections.

The PNP has earlier reported that the presence of threat groups, proliferationofloosefirearms,ridoorfamily feud, and power supply stability are among the challenges in achieving peaceful and orderly elections in the province this May. Meanwhile, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) will give a power briefing to localmedia practitioners and officialsfrom the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Commission on Elections, and Department of Interior and Local Government in the provinces of Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur regarding NGCP’s elections preparations. Beth Ladaga, corporate communications officer of NGCP inMindanao, said they would present the power outlook in May as well as the contingency plan and measures to ensure stable supply of power during elections. ThepowerbriefingwasheldonApril 29 at N Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. (Apipa Bagumbaran/PIA10)

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Comelec official to voters: Come to the polling place earlyKORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato - Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Kendatu Laguialam, has appealed to the voting public to cast their votes early on May 9. “If possible come to the polling precinct in the morning,” Atty. Laguialam urged the voters. This way, he said, they could be unburdened by long queues that usually occur in the last hours of the election day. On May 9, polling precincts will be open from 6:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. “Voters who are in line 30 meters from the polling precinct at the closing time will be allowed to enter the polling precincts beyond 5:00 p.m. and cast their votes,” Laguialam said. Meanwhile, Atty. April Michor, election officer of Koronadal Cityenjoinedvotersto findout theirspecific assigned polling precinctbefore the election day. “As early as now, look for your precincts,” Atty. Michor urged the voters. Sheaddedthatelectionofficeshave provided each barangay a CD of the list of registered voters. Barangay officials have beendirected to print out copies of the said list to be posted in their community bulletin boards. Residents may also refer to

the list of registered voters and their assigned polling precincts at thelocalComelecoffices. “By knowing their assigned polling precincts prior to the election day, voters could save time looking for the rooms where they should cast their votes,” she explained. Voters are also encouraged to write down on paper the list of candidates they are voting for in each position. Michor advised voters against listing the candidates on mobile phones as the use of these inside the polling precinct is prohibited. “Another important reminder, shade the ballot properly so that this will be read by the machine fully,” Atty. Michor said. Voters may not bring pens into the voting area as marking pens will be provided by the Comelec. Data from the provincial officeoftheComelecindicatethatSouth Cotabato, including General Santos City, has over 724,000 registered voters. (DEDoguiles/PIA12)

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Comelec official to voters: Come to the polling place early

ZNPPO signs Oath of Non-PartisanshipDIPOLOG CITY - To remind the PNP of their role in the upcoming national and local election, all elements and support units under the Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial Office (ZNPPO) converged here Monday for the signing of the “Oath of Non-Partisanhip.” ZNPPO Acting Provincial Director, PSSupt. Edwin C. Wagan said with the Oath of Non-Partisanship signing, the whole provincial command vows not to get involved in any partisan political activity in connection with the conduct of the upcoming national and local election on May 9. Wagan said that augmentation forces from the regional command started to arrive since last week and many are still coming. On election day,allpolicepersonneldoingofficeworkswillbedeployedtothefieldtomaximize police presence in areas where they are most needed.

He assured that the local police remains apolitical and always ready to protect the rights of the voting populace and ensure the conduct of a “Secure and Fair Election 2016.” “Let us do our job, what we are tasked to do. We will do our job 24/7,” Wagan stressed. He assured thatthe PNP will be performing only their mandated task, no more, no less. Wagan added that ZNPPO will establish a media center where all media personalities can get an update on the conduct of the election from other parts of the province.(Alfonso Ruda/PIA9)

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Volunteers hold candidates forum in IliganILIGAN CITY — The Soroptimist International (SI) of Iligan recently took the lead in holding a Candidates’ Forum at the Iligan City High School gymnasium.

SI Iligan President Ma. Adoracion Tandoc-Buat said the activity is a “Be Involved Advocacy” aimed at inviting all the local candidates running for congressional and mayoral posts to air their plans and programs for the city, as they were joined by their candidates for vice mayor and councilors. Ms. Josephine Rosero, project chairperson and SI Iligan past president, said the candidates were each given a time slot to present their platforms of government. Some candidates’ plans and programs focused on building an inclusive local governance that is honest, innovative, participatory, service-oriented and others. Other candidates wanted to give highest priority and attention to the city hospital to cater to all especially the poor and the zero billing policy for all indigents must be strictly implemented. They also pushed for all-out war on drugs, construction of farm-to-market roads, education, sports and ecotourism. Commission on Elections (Comelec)-Iligan disclosed that the city has nine contenders for congressional seat, five for

mayor, two for vice mayor, and 57 for city councilor. SI Iligan has invited Comelec and the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) to witness the event. SI president Buat said “some didn’t make it because the schedule was also in conflict with the proclamation rally withthe national candidates of their respective political party. But it was awesome to hear their platforms.” Soroptimist International is a worldwide service organization, working to transform the lives of women and girls through education and leadership. It is committed to a world where women and girls together achieve their individual and collective potential, realize aspirations and have an equal voice in creating sustainable communities worldwide. It is a global voice for women through awareness, advocacy and action. Its mission is to inspire action and create opportunities to transform the lives of women and girls through a global network of members and international partnerships. (Lorry Gabuli/PIA10)

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