one mindanao - april 9, 2012

PIA REGIONAL OFFICES

Executive Editor …….. EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI

Managing Editor …….. ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Caraga Region Officer-in-charge,PIARegionX

Associate Editors …… NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX

OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII

Regional Desk Editors Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Elaine O. Ratunil, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Copy Editors Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region Nora C. Lanuza Molde, PIA Caraga Region

Layout Artists ……… Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Zener R. Dumaguing, PIA Region X

Senior Layout Artists Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region

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ATTY. JOSE A. FABIADirector-General

Philippine Information Agency

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Cover Story

Pushing forward despite obstacles

Gervacio Dauz, Jr.Caraga Region

Today’s issue...Monday, April 9, 2012 Vol. 1 No. 231

page 4

Claim folders review and process is tedious but makes DAR processes easier and faster10 David M. Suyao, Caraga Region

ANECO conducts Power Forum in Butuan

16Jennifer P. Gaitano, Caraga Region

DOT asks media to help them by highlighting negative news less17Michael Vincent D. Cajulao, Western Mindanao

Phl, Qatar to sign agreements during State Visit of Emir 8

Zam Norte gov’t allocates P50-M for 2012 Disaster Preparedness PlanAlfonso T. Ruda, Western Mindanao

Literacy Coordinating Council accepts nominations for nat’l literacy tilt19 Jorie C. Valcorza, Northern Mindanao

LGU Clarin now the “Bayong Capital” of Mis. Occ.20 Pat Nano, Northern Mindanao

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North Cotabato’s peace camps to reach 25,000 kidsDEDoguiles, Central Mindanaoao

Educ’l scholarship ng Malungon patuloy sa pagtulong sa mga nangangailangan24Central Mindanao

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4 Monday, April 9, 2012 ONE MINDANAO

Those who continue to strive amid the trials in life are usually destined to succeed in the long run.

Cover Story

Pushing forward despite obstacles

Of those who got this winning attitude, Melojean A. Guilao is surely part of the club. Guilao was originally enrolled as an Environmental Management student at the Caraga University. However, she found out later that she was not cut out for it –

for lack of monetary resources to fuel her dreams and because

it was not her passion. She also got pregnant

unexpectedly in 2002 with her

first child. B u t

w h i l e

things were not going her way, her neighbor Arnel took interest in her and they ended up married in 2004. The union resulted in to another child for Guilao. With the turn of events, Guilao collected herself to start anew, starting with taking care of her husband and her children. And after nurturing her family full-time for six years, she decided to seek a career for herself to aid the needs of her growing family. The opportunity came when she heard about a tech-voc scholarship under the I-CARE Program of Agusan del Norte 1st District Rep. Jose Aquino and TESDA. Eventually, she was rewarded the grant, which allowed her to enroll

by Gervacio Dauz, Jr.

Monday, April 9, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 5

on the course Food and

Beverages Services at the Butuan City Colleges (BCC) here. The program, though short, enabled her to clinch a Level II National Certification. From the opportunity, Guilao learned may of the fundamentals of the trade like skirting, flow in taking orders and attending to the guests in a function, among others. Her passion and dedication also did not go unnoticed as BCC School Pres. Remedios Famador picked her as material protégé. She was then

hired to act as an Assistant Trainer for FBS.

Guilao also juggled her time as head of the lineup

during catering season for Freddie Cinco’s

Blue Chef catering business.

But what she had

achieved already did not stop her to seek for more practical training. As advised by Famador, she applied as an on-the-job trainee (OJT) at the nearby Prince Hotel – one of the newest, grandest, and by far the tallest here. Afterwards, her dedication as an OJT impressed hotel manager Edgardo T. Magalong and he opined for her to submit her application papers. She then became a regular trainee and eventually, a regular employee. But barely a year as a regular employee, she already started playing the role of a supervisor. At a blooming age of 29, Guilao admitted that she felt that life’s been kind after all. According to her, the hardships she experienced only spiced up her life and made her more patient and dedicated, but still dreaming with both feet on the ground. At the bottom line, her gratitude went to her alma mater and the school president who pushed her with confidence. “Thank you also TESDA for opening for me the door of opportunity,” she added in a sincere manner.

6 Monday, April 9, 2012ONE MINDANAO

ACROSS THE NATIONPresident Aquino leads Commemoration of 70th Araw ng Kagitingan in Bataan

President Benigno S. Aquino cited the unrelenting support of the government to the Filipino veterans who fought for the country’s liberty and sovereignty several decades ago as he underscored the

importance of cooperation among nations to attain global peace, progress and development.

In his speech during the 70th Commemoration of the Araw ng Kagitingan here on Monday, the Chief Executive said that war veterans and their respective beneficiaries can now easily avail of medical assistance from the additional almost 600 hospitals across the

country that were recently accredited by the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC).

“Kung hindi pa po ninyo nababalitaan, hayaan ninyo na ako na ang maghatid ng good news para sa inyo… ito pong ika-31 ng Marso mas madali nang makatatanggap

ng benepisyong pangkalusugan ang ating mga beterano. Limangdaan siyamnapu’t siyam (599) na ospital po sa buong bansa ang na-accredit ng Veterans Memorial Medical Center bilang regional o provincial extensions,” the President said.


“Lumawak na rin po ang

mga serbisyong maaaring i-subsidize

ng VMMC… pati po operasyon sa katarata, coronary andiogram at cardiac bypass kasali na,” he added.

The President also assured the veterans present during the occasion of the on-time and exact delivery of veterans’ pension after the implementation by the government of the direct remittance servicing system and the cleansing of the pensioners’ list.

“Dahil rin po sa ipinapatupad na direct remittance pension servicing system, mas mabilis at mas husto nang matatanggap ng mga beterano ang kanilang pensiyon, nilinis na rin po ang mga talaan ng mga pensiyonado nating kababayan upang masigurong ang pera ay nakararating sa dapat nitong hantungan… iyan po ang ilan sa mga paraan upang kilalanin natin ang kagitingan ng ating mga beterano na ginugunita

natin sa araw na ito,” the President said stressing the undeniable benefits of unity and cooperation among nations.

“Ngayon nabubuhay na tayo ng mapayapa at natutuhan ang aral ng kasaysayan... walang maidudulot ang karahasan, hindi matatamo ang kaunlaran kung hindi makikipag-ugnayan sa mga karatig bansa, nasa interes ng lahat ang pakikipagtulungan,” he added.

After the arrival honors accorded him, President Aquino proceeded to the Colonade Area for the Wreath Laying Ceremony where he offered flowers in honor of the fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country and people, seven decades ago.

Present during the event that was anchored on this year’s theme: “Beterano Tagasulong ng Tunay at Walang Humpay na Pagbabago,” were former president Fidel V. Ramos, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Japanese

Ambassador Toshinao Urabe, US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Leslie Bassett and other local officials.

Also in attendance were Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Jesse Dellosa, Philippine Airforce Commanding General Maj. Gen. Lauro dela Cruz, Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, Philippine National Police Chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome and Navy Flag Officer In Command Rear Admiral Alexander Pama.

This year’s theme exemplifies the role of the veterans, who, despite having significantly contributed already to the attainment of freedom, peace and democracy, continue to do more for the country in various capacities.

Prior to his message, the President spearheaded the awarding of the winners of the Oratorical, Painting and Essay Writing Contests that were held in line with this year’s celebration. (JCL)


In a statement released on Monday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the agreements that will be signed in the areas of labor, tourism, agriculture, trade and investments, will further enhance the relations between the two countries

“His Highness the Emir’s visit affirms the advancement of political and economic ties between the Philippines and Qatar. We are looking forward to discussing ways to

achieve more positive growth in the realm of trade and investment and increasing opportunities for our Filipino workers,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said.

Malacañang is rolling out the red carpet and pulling out all the stops for the Emir’s visit, his first to the country, and is ready to accord him and his delegation the traditional Filipino hospitality and warm welcome.

A State Dinner will be held in honor of His Highness, the Emir as well

as full military honors and 21-gun salute upon his arrival in Malacañang.

The Emir’s visit marks the vibrant and dynamic partnership between the Philippines and Qatar that have spanned for 31 years.

The State of Qatar is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and is the richest country in terms of GDP per capital. Qatar is host to an estimated 175,000 overseas Filipino workers. (RCK)

Phl, Qatar to sign agreements during State Visit of Emir

The Republic of the Philippines and the State of Qatar will

sign several agreements during the State Visit to the Philippines of His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar on Tuesday, April 10.

Monday, April 9, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 9www.piacaraga.blogspot.com http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-Caraga-Updates/165374590187484

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DepEd to accept entries for the 2012 Nat’l Literacy Award

The Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga,through the Literacy Coordinating Council

(LCC), will be conducting the 2012 National Literacy Award (NLA) and is still accepting entries until April 23 for the regional level.

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

This was learned during the regional orientation on the NLA held recently at the DepEd-Caraga Regional Conference Hall attended by the representatives of the member-agencies in the government, institutions, and private stakeholders. The 2012 National

Literacy Award is in consonance with the celebration of the Annual Literacy Week on September 2 to 8, as per proclamation No. 329. According to LCC Secretariat Head Dr. Norma Salcedo of DepEd, the NLA has two categories: Outstanding Literacy

Program Award, which is given to a literacy program being implemented by a civil society organization, non-government organization, private organization, or educa t i ona l / a cadem i c institution which has positive impact on learners and the community; and Outstanding Local


Claim folders review and process is tedious but makes DAR processes easier and fasterby David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, -- A Claim Folders Review and Process (CFRP) seminar/workshop which was was conducted on March 12-15, 2012 by the provincial office of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

Government Unit (LGU) Award which is also given to LGUs (highly urbanized city, component city, component independent city, Class A municipality, and Class B municipality), which have developed and which have efficaciously made a positive impact on their barangays and the quality of life of their people. Salcedo further said that the award aims to recognize the best practices for implementing literacy programs or projects which help alleviate poverty, provide livelihood, address welfare needs, promote freedom, and make education facilities

accessible. “With the National Literacy Award, we sustain, expand and institutionalize literacy efforts by motivating and recognizing individuals, institutions and the local government units through awards and appropriate recognition. We also encourage the development and replication of innovative, creative and indigenous literacy programs,” said Salcedo. Nominations and selection of regional winners shall be conducted not later than April 10 to 30. Announcement of regional winners will be on May 2, 2012 and the regional

entries must be submitted to the LCC Secretariat on or before May 15. Any entry not received by said date will be disqualified fro the short-listing process. Ms. Marilyn Antiquina of DepEd-Caraga reminded the representatives of the different municipalities in the region to strictly comply with the requirements and to submit the entries on or before the deadline of submission so it will be screened and processed. The LCC Head Secretariat, Dr. Salcedo, or DepEd-Caraga Regional Office should be contacted for more information.


The CFRP aimes to expedite land acquisition and distribution (LAD) process, analyze the nature of the LAD balance in the province, clear up the data base, and put things in order for easy retrieval of data and speedy processing. The activity kicked off with a briefing facilitated by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Central office thru Regional Action Officer Gerardo C. Balista of Field Operations Office and Andrea Abatay of the Bureau of Agrarian Reform Information and Education (BARIE ) . Groupings followed wherein 18 teams were formed into two groups. The team was composed of a Municipal Agrarian Reform Officer (MARO) who acted as a reviewer and one staff as an encoder for the inventory to be more effective. The province of Agusandel Sur brought 458 claim folders covering 5,254 hectares. These landholdings belong to different priorities up to phase 3-A of Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program

(CARP) coverage, including back logs from phase 1 up to phase 2-B of Land Acquisition and Distribution (LAD) balance of DAR Agusan del Sur. Due to time constraint however, only 436 folders were reviewed. “The result of the CFD is alarming as it turned out that out of 436 folders, 335 claim folders with 3,234 hectares were tagged as problematic while only 101 claim folders with 929.23 hectares were found out to be workable. These folders though are subject for further review of the MAROs concerned , ” Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Project Officer (CARPO) Cristino Samputon, Chief of

Operations Division said. With the conduct of claim folder distribution (CFD), DAR personnel learned to appreciate the importance of the claim folders review as this can truly assist them to process the CFs promptly. MARO Ruth Galvez of San Francisco also said The CFD is really beneficial as claim folders now can be traced easily, lacking documents can be readily seen and it minimize errors. Documenting the claim folders are truly tedious but we must do it to ensure quality output. We felt that every datum we put in the system is very essential including the minutes detail. As a result, we have to work harder after seeing that


ANECO conducts Power Forum in ButuanBUTUAN CITY – To update the member-consumers of the Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative (ANECO) on the power crisis in Mindanao, a Power Forum was conducted recently at the ANECO Multi-Purpose Hall, this city with participants from the government agencies, business sector, local tri-media, and private individuals.

there are lots of lacking documents for processing of claim folders. Galvez added that by way of CFD, hand in hand with the excel-based system that we have if fully established, we are hopeful that the claim folders processing will rush up for the benefit of all our agrarian reform beneficiaries, bringing social justice by transferring to them the lands they actually tilled, to have a security of tenure and likewise ensure just compensation to affected landowners so they may shift their capital from agriculture to industry to boost our local and national industrialization

. The system is really useful because it will serve as a snap shot of a claim folder in a flick of a finger. “The said CFD is indeed helpful as the claim folders, being classified as workable or problematic, can be worked out as early as possible. Upon examination of the folders, we will know what type of intervention is appropriately needed without much delay,” provincial agrarian reform officer (PARO) Paysal B. Tumog of Agusan del Sur said. “I would like to commend our Secretary and the rest of his staff for coming up with

this monitoring tool, a nifty, valuable and very effective tool that will help us realize our target. With this and with the support of DAR personnel, we are hopeful that we will be able to deliver our piece of cake the earliest possible time,” PARO Tumog ended. The seminar/ workshop was attended by the PAROs of Agusan Sur, CARPOs Operations and staff, PMEU personnel , all MAROs in the province with their staff and personnel from LTI Division of DAR Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Province of Dinagat Islands.


During the power forum, 1st District Butuan City-Las Nieves Cong. Jose Aquino II also shared his ideas and answered some questions asked by the attendees. Aquino said that he really want to seek solution to this power crisis being experienced in Mindanao especially in the province by getting support from other power plants that would supplement the need of the electric cooperatives. He also expressed his gratitude to ANECO for initiating the Power Forum and hoped that another forum will still be conducted so others in the different barangays will know the situation. Cong. Aquino further said that during the Earth Hour last March 31, 2012, it contributed good impact to energy saving. According to him, 386 megawatts was saved in Luzon, 75 megawatts in Visayas, and 150 megawatts in Mindanao. He then stressed that the public must observe the Earth Hour daily for us to save more power. Also, ANECO Gen. Manager Mr. Horacio Santos, bared that ANECO officials went to Davao City on Tuesday and had a briefing on the power crisis with officials from the Department of Energy

(DOE). He further stressed that it is very important that people here would know that there is indeed a power shortage especially that the Pulangi Hydro Power Plant will shut down this month. He then asked for the public’s understanding. GM Santos also announced that after April 9 (next week), the province will experience power curtailment in different schedules until April 30. He also revealed that with the use of the power barge in Nasipit, there will be a little but due increase of the electricity rate. He then asked for the understanding of the public. Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative (ANECO) Pres. Dioscoro Boco recalled that in 2010, Butuan City along with the other regions in Mindanao has experienced 3-6hours brownout because of power shortage but now - 2011 “we’re fortunate that we only experience a very short time power loss. This is also because of the help of the TMI plant /barge situated in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte where we get the source of our power. We are also looking forward

to get partnership with other power plant so we can sustain our power for the next coming years,” said Boco. Meanwhile, Engr. Darwin Daymiel, Account Manager of ANECO’s Technical Services Department also presented the power situation in the province of Agusan del Norte. He mentioned along his discussion that the major causes of power interruption are the following: Generation deficiency due to power plant’s technicall problems; Transmission system technical problems; Distribution system technical problems; & Load shedding or curtailment. “Whatever the cause, be assured that the energy sector is doing their best to continuously improve power services,” said Daymiel. Participants were informed that ANECO will send power curtailment advisories, schedules thru text messages and with the help of the local tri-media.


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Pagadian to join the entire nation in the celebration of ‘Araw ng Kagitingan”By Gideon C. CorgueOfficials and

employees of provincial

and city government, national government agencies, civic and non-government organizations will converge at 7 o’clock in the morning today in front of Rizal monument, city hall complex to celebrate the “Araw ng Kagitingan” (Day of Valor) with this year’s theme “Beterano: Tagasulong ng Tunay at Walang Humpay na Pagbabago”.


The event will be graced by 1st Infanty (TABAK) division commander BGen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, Governor Antonio H. Cerilles, Mayor Samuel S. Co, and ZamboSur Veterans District commander Claudio F. Porio, who will gave their respective messages. CityadministratorRufinoAmorsaid the city government who used to celebrate significant occasionssince time immemorial encouraged the participants to instill in their hearts and minds the greatness of FilipinofightersduringWorldWarIIwho valiantly fought for the country’s freedom and independence. The City administrator said today’s activities will have messages, layingoffloralofferingsat the veteran’s marker, and the simultaneous singing of “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” which are instruments for participants to remember the bravery and sacrifices of our warveterans who laid down their lives for our country. “The celebration reminded us that they are dear to us,” Amor added. (NBE/GCC/PIA9-Zambosur)


Governor Rolando E. Yebes, who is the Chairman of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC), said the fund will be utilized in the implementation of various programs and projects as part of its preparation for any calamity that may hit the province. Yebes said among the equipment to be purchased include rubber boats and other rescue equipment which he deemed necessary during rescue operation in times of calamity. The Governor said, these equipment is necessary as rescue workers usually find a hard timerescuing flood victims who aresometimes stranded at the roof of their homes due to lack of recue equipment like rubber boats. Among the projects considered by the Governor is the construction of multi-purpose covered courts which will be used as temporary shelter for the evacuees during emergency situations. Yebes said the Zanorte PDRRMC has adopted this measure due to the prevailing unpredictable weather condition. At the same time, the Governor

DIPOLOG CITY - The Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Government has allotted P50-million of its Calamity Fund for the 2012 Disaster Preparedness Plan of the province.

Zam Norte gov’t allocates P50-M for 2012 Disaster Preparedness Plan By Alfonso T. Ruda

wants the people to be always prepared for any eventuality, though he assures the calamity victims of assistance from the Provincial Government. Earlier, the PDRRMC has reminded all Local Government Units in the province to adopt safety measures in their locality based on the geo-hazard map released by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources indicating areas vulnerable to flashflood andlandslides in their area. It maybe recalled that early this year, several barangays in Dapitan City were flooded and the rescueworkershadadifficultyinretrievingflood victims due to unavailabilityof rubber boats that will be used in the rescue operation. (JPA/ATR/PIA9-ZamboNorte)


“If media will not highlight it, it will not affect the city’s tourism”, DOT-9 Acting Regional Director Mary June Bugante said when asked about the effect of the spate of recent shootings in the city on their tourism program. She asked media to lessen their focus on crime stories and, instead, focus on positive news. “Please help us by not highlighting too much on crime stories. Let’s highlight the positive rather than the negative”, Bugante appealed to the media. The number of shooting incidents have increased with the recent being the incident involving a president of a local university here in broad day light. A press release from Peace Advocate Zamboanga, a

non-government organization here, revealed that there are now over 60 shooting incidents reported for this year. Zamboanga City Mayor Celso Lobregat has also echoed Bugante’s call to the media to shift much of their focus to positive news that will help the city. Lobregat, in the past, has repeated the same call as negative news will not help the city in attracting tourists and investors to come in the city. Bugante said media play a big role on attracting or dissuading tourists to come to the city. She said tourists will not know of the shootings unless it is highlighted by the media. (NBE/MVC/PIA9-ZBST, w/ news from R.G. Go)

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

DOT asks media to help them by highlighting negative news less

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Department of Tourism-9 (DOT) appealed to local media here to help them promote the city by not dwelling too much on negative news.


PCOO calls for volunteers to join Bayani Challenge 2012

The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), through its flagship project “Pilipinas Natin (PN)” is at the forefront again, this time calling for volunteers to join Bayani

Challenge 2012 which will run simultaneously in five provinces, namely Cagayan De Oro, Iligan, Dumaguete, Masbate, and Mindoro, from April 9 to 14. Withatheme“Pilipinas,NgayonNa!” thisfive-dayactivity intends toawaken the “bayani” in every Filipino and test how far one would go in the spirit of volunteerism for community development. This project also wishes to highlight the urgency of coming together for a common cause, which is to build a better Philippines for

the coming generations to enjoy. “It is inherent in every Filipino to care and this is our chance to show the world that together, we can build a strong nation,” PCOO secretary Sonny Coloma said in a press statement, adding, “we can start by caring for our own town or city and eventually level up by helping other communities


through acts of volunteerism and “bayanihan” (working together), that’s why I encourage one and all to take part in our Bayani Challenge and experience the vibrancy and passion that the Pilipinas Natin family has towards nation building.” The event’s highlights include building of houses and schools, fun and learning activities with the kids, love for the environment and health mission. PN has also laid down other recreational activities like photography sessions, sports competition, bayanihan race, cooking demo, and concert, to serve as breather to participating volunteers. PCOO,throughitsOfficeofSpecial

Concerns (OSC), in partnership with Gawad Kalinga, hopes to mobilize 2,000 volunteers (from the youth, government, and non-government organizations) in each province, which means a total of 10,000 volunteers across the country to create an impact on 3,640 families. Interested participants should first form a team of 15 volunteersand register online at www.bayanichallenge2012.blogspot.com. Then, they can choose the area and activity where they would want to participate.Aconfirmationemailwillbesent containing information regarding what to bring and the detailed activity plan.

Literacy Coordinating Council accepts nominations for nat’l literacy tiltMAMBAJAO, Camiguin - The Department of Education (DepEd) through the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC) is now accepting nominations for the 2012 National Literacy Award (NLA).

Dr. Norma L. Salcedo, head of the LCC Secretariat, announced that the NLA awards this year has two categories, the “Outstanding Literacy Program Awards” for civil society organizations, non-government organization, private organizations or educational/academic institutions and

the “Outstanding Local Government Unit Award” for local governments, which have developed policies, programs, and projects conducive to literacy development. NLA aims to recognize the best practices in implementing literacy programs or projects which help

by Jorie C. Valcorza


alleviate poverty, provide livelihood, address welfare needs, promote freedom, make education facilities accessible, and helped build basic and functional literacy. Nominations and selection of all regional entries will be conducted not later than April 10 to 30, and must be forwarded to the LCC secretariat on

orbeforeMay15. The DepEd and chiefs of its Alternative Learning System are the designated members of the Regional Screening Committee. Salcedo noted that only programs who have been running for at least three years will qualify for the literacy tilt.

LGU Clarin now the “Bayong Capital” of Mis. Occ.by Pat Nano

CLARIN, Misamis Occidental - The local government unit (LGU) of Clarin has added a new name for itself, that of being “The Bayong Capital” of Misamis Occidental, aside from being the “Suman Capital” of the province.

This, after Clarin went into the mass production of “bayong” (native bag) to replace the plastic shopping bags in the markets and allow local weavers to earn more. Mayor David Navarro said these bayongs are made from biodegradable materials,specificallyfromtheleavesof the romblon plants, that are abundant in the area. Mats made of romblon, like that of pandan and the ticog reed, cool and soothe the body. “Being biodegradable, the romblon plants are, therefore, friendly to the environment,” the Mayor added. He said going into bayong production is in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) which conducted the training for the residents who wanted to learn about bayong-weaving and bag-making. The shift from plastic

to natural materials is congruent to a worldwide altered mindset to use itemsmadeofnaturalfibers,asmuchas possible. During the 91st Araw ng Clarin Anniversary celebration, DTI Director Delia Ayano thanked the Mayor for giving importance to the concern for environment protection. (PIO)


Solo parents, abused women undergo livelihood training

The local government of Panabo City in Davao del

Norte recently provided liveli-hood training on coin purse and pouch making to uplift the social and economic condition of solo parents and abused women in the city. Thebeneficiariesunderwentthefree training through the Community Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Program (CSTEP) under the Public EmploymentServiceOffice(PESO). PESO Manager Cher Magallon-Bastida said the training held in March this year gave the participants the op-portunity to be equipped with the coin purse and pouch making skills so they could put up their own business and improve their income. Once the participants are orga-nized, they can also avail of the soft loan scheme being offered under the Poverty Reduction Program of the city mayor. The loan package can be used by the borrowers as start-up capital in their respective businesses.PESO conducted the training together

withtheCitySocialWelfareandDe-velopmentOffice,andincoordinationwith the 2nd District Congressional Office. The training is just one of the many livelihood and skills training in line with the Job Opportunities through Entrepreneurship and Skills Develop-ment (JOESIL) Program of Panabo City Mayor Jose L. Silvosa, Sr., that gears towards improving the living standard of Panaboans. Silvosa said in his message through City Administrator Henry M. Esparagoza, that the participants are fortunate to be beneficiaries of thelivelihood program facilitated by the CSTEP. Esparagoza said the training is part of his Poverty Alleviation Program, one of his flagship projects, which is nowshared not only those who are unem-ployed but also victims of abuses. (CIO-Panabo City Mark Anthony Gellor)


Wage increase in Soccsksargen region takes effect April 18By Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Co-tabato – After complying with the 15-day regulation publi-cation, the new wage order for Soccsksargen Region’s private sector workforce will be effective April 18, the De-partment of Labor and Em-ployment – 12 announced last Wednesday.

DOLE 12 regional Director Chona Mantilla and chairperson oftheRegionalTripartiteWagesand Productivity Board-12 said thatWageOrderRBXII-17wasissued on March 28, 2012.Official publication of the

wage order started on April 4.“Under the new wage order,

the cost of living allowance of P15(mandated inWageOrderRXII-16)wasintegratedinthebasic salary and the new COLA


ranging from P10 - P14 will be implemented in two tranches,” Mantilla said.

Except for workers on the non-agriculture sector, who will get the full COLA of P10 once the wage order takes effect on April 18, those working in agriculture sector will receive P8 per day COLA while those working in the retail/service sector will receive P6 increase at thefirsttranche.

Thus, on April 18 minimum daily wages in the region should stand at P270 for non-agriculture workers, P248 for plantation agriculture workers, P243 for agriculture non-plantation workers, P246 for workers in retail/service establishments employing more than 10 people, and P240 for workers in retail/service sector employing not more than 10 people.

The wage order also specifiesthatthesecondtranche of COLA will be effective December 1, 2012.It specifies that the

second tranche of daily COLA will be P4 for

agriculture plantation sector, P6 for agriculture non-plantation workers, P4 for retail/service sector with more than 10 workers and P6 for retail/service sector with not more than 10 workers.

Once the second tranche of increases becomes effective in December, minimum daily wages should be P270forworkersinnon-agriculture sector, P252for workers in agriculture plantation workers, P249 for agriculture non-plantationworkers,P250for workers in retail/service establishments employing more than P10 people, and P246 for workers in retail/service establishments employing not more than 10 people.

The previous wage order, Wage OrderRBXII-16, becameeffective on October 31, 2010.

“There being no petition, the RTWPB12 resolved to review, moto proprio, the minimum wage rates in the region,” said board secretary Jessie dela Cruz.

Region 12 or Soccsksargen region

covers the provinces of Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and North Cotabato as well as the cities of Cotabato. Kidapawan, Tacurong, Koronadal and General Santos.

Dela Cruz explained that the decision to grant a wage increase was prompted by the results of studies on the socio-economic conditions of the region, public consultations on January 25 and 26 inKidapawan City and General Santos City, respectively, and series of deliberations of the board.

The new minimum wage order, he added, should be implemented “regardless of their position, designation, status of employment and irrespective of the method by which these wages are paid.”

As in the previous wage orders exemption may be granted on certain types of establishments such as those distressed establishments and those whose assets are not more than P3 million, dela Cruz said.


North Cotabato’s peace camps to reach 25,000 kidsKORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- At least 25,000 Grade V school chil-dren from 17 municipalities and lone city of North Cotabato are expected to participate in the second run of the province’s Gov. Lala Summer Kids Peace Camp.

This year’s three-day peace camps began in Pikit municipality on March 9 – 11 where 2,451 children joined.This was followed by peace camps in Aleosan town on March 15 –17andanotheroneonMarch 19 – 21 in Magpet municipality.

More peace camps are scheduled after the Holy Week untilMay including camps in Antipas, Matalam, M’lang, Kabacan, Pigcawayan, Makilala, Arakan, Tulunan, Carmen, Banisilan, Alamada, Midsayap, Libungan, and Pres. Roxas municipalities and in Kidapawan City.

Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza initiated this program last year in partnership with the Department of Education to promote

peace among residents of the province starting while they are still young as well as developing potential leaders among them.

It also aims to motivate children to get involvedandaffirmtheir commitment to the government, help them discover and enhance their abilities and realize their role in the community especially in the government’s goal towards lasting peace.

This is done by gathering Muslim,

indigenous people and Christian children in camps where they are introduced to diverse cultures of the tri-people living in the province, taught leadership skills and important moral values and encouraged to involve in community development.

“There should be no discrimination. Everyone has an equal opportunity. No matter what the sexual orientation, tribe or religion. And if you have discipline in your studies, you will go


far,” Gov. Mendoza told participants in one of the peace camps.

The lady governor also challenged the future leaders of the province to “put into practice what you learn during the summer kids peace camp and serve as role models to the younger pupils when you go back to school.”

Activities during the summer kids camp include lectures and group activities including leadership workshops, sports competitions, lectures on environment and climate change, life skills and emergency preparedness, as well as activities that promote understanding of each other’s social, cultural and religious diversity.

Campers were also

given the chance to exhibit their talents and skills via a talent show and Pabonggahan Night and live theater presentation showcasing cultures in the province.

During the opening ceremonies of the summer kids peace camp in Magpet on March 19, Gov. Mendoza alsoturned-overaP3.5million worth covered court to host Apostol Memorial Elementary School.

She explained this

was an incentive to the school for hosting the same event last year.

The said project was funded in partnership with the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) Partylist whose representative, Congressman Raymond Mendoza, was also present during the turn-over ceremony. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12 with report from IDCD-Prov’l Governor’s Office)

Educ’l scholarship ng Malungon patuloy sa pagtulong sa mga nangangailanganMALUNGON, Sarangani -- Tinatayang 103 na ang nagtapos sa kanilang pag-aaral sa ilalim ng Educational Assistance Program (EAP) ng lokal na pama-halaan ng Malungon, Sarangani.

Ang mga mag-aaral na ito ay nagtapos sa iba’t-ibang kurso mula sa pribado at pang-

gobyernong kolehiyo o pamantasan sa General Santos City at Davao City.

Ayon sa tala ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Malungon, mula sa orihinal na 517


government scholars ay matiwasay nakapagtapos na ng kani-kanilang mga minimithing kurso ang 43 mag-aaral noong taong 2010, samantalang 70 namanang nakapagtapos noong 2011.

Ibinunyag din ni Mayor Reynaldo Constantino na aabot na rin sa humigit-kumulang 200 educational scholars mula sa iba’t-ibang religious ministries at mga tribong Blaan at Tagakaolo ang kasalukuyan na ring pinapaaral ng lokal na

pamahalaan.Kaugnay nito ay

naging kapana-panabik din para sa mga opisyales ng 31 barangay na bumubuo ng naturang bayan ang muling pagbabalik ng mga ito sa pag-aaral sa ilalim ng programang Alternative Learning System (ALS) na inilunsad din ng lokal na pamahalaan sa pakikipagkolaborasyon sa DepEd Sarangani.

“I don’t want to be remembered as builder of roads and bridges but as a builder of my people’s verve and character,” ayon kay Constantino.

Dagdag nito patuloy

pa rin ang pagbibigay ng kanyang pamahalaan ng pagkakataon para makapagtapos ng iba’t-ibang kurso ang mga mag-aaral ng Malungon.

Aniya hangad nito na aangat ang kabuhayan ng kanyang mga mamamayan at makatulong din sa kalaonan sa pagkamit ng kaunlaran na nararapat para sa bayan ng Malungon.

Ang pagtatapos ng 103 EAP scholars, ayon kay Constantino ay nangangahulugan ng panibagong pag-asa sa mga nagnanais din tumuntong sa kolehiyo sa pamamagitan ng pagtanggap ng mga panibagong scholars na maaring mapili ng lokal na pamahalaan.

N a g p a p a s a l a m a t din ang alkalde sa ayuda na nagmumula kay Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao na tumulong upang ma-sustain at lumawak ang naturang scholarship program na ayon pa’y nangangailangan ng may halagang P10-milyon na pondo bawat taon. (Isagani P. Palma/MIO-Malungon/ CT Apelacio/PIA General Santos City).


ARMM holds first environment summitby Apipa P. Bagumbaran

Representatives from various sectors in the

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) have gathered in a summit to tackle issues and concerns about the environmental protection.

Members of various national government agencies, n o n - g o v e r n m e n t organizations, peoples’ o r g a n i z a t i o n s , a c a d e m i c i a n s , e n v i r o n m e n t a l i s t s and leaders from the five provinces of the ARMM attended the summit, anchored on the theme “Beyond Disasters: Mainstreaming E n v i r o n m e n t a l Awareness and Advocacy

Through Multi-Sectoral Collaboration,” held recently at the Mamitua Saber Research and Technology Center of the Mindanao State University (MSU) Main Campus in Marawi City. Spearheaded by the ARMM government through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the region, the summit was designed to enhance awareness on the current

state of the autonomous region’s environment. D E N R - A R M M secretary Kahal Kedtag discussed the situation of the environment and the region’s natural resources as well as the actions taken by the ARMM government and the DENR-ARMM to protect such resources. Among the key speakers during the summit were Professor Danilo Mero from the MSU College of Forestry and


Environmental Studies who discussed the importance of watershed management and biodiversity conservation while Environmental Management Bureau-

10 regional director Dr. Sabdullah Abubacar presented the problems and prospects of Lake Lanao. BGen. Loreto Rirao, executive director of the

Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) in ARMM also tackled the mainstreaming of the disaster risk reduction and management act into local development plans.

one mindanao - april 9, 2012

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