one mindanao - may 14, 2012

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESExecutive 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

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Cover Story

Balangay Festival: a celebration of color, prestige and cultural heritage

Robert E. RoperosCaraga Region

Today’s issue... Monday, May 14, 2012 Vol. 1 No. 256

page 4

Nida Grace B. Tranquilan, Caraga Region

Aquino to address National Transport Conference in Marikina Monday13

CdeO–Invest Mancom, TWG conveneINVEST official cites CdeO’s prospects as an economic hub

Surigao del Sur Prov’l Gov’t supports National Greening Program19Surigao Norte to hold ‘Pagkaong Surigaonon’ Food Fest 20

NIA earmarks P25M for irrigation system rehab in Dipolog23

Fryan E. Abkilan, Caraga Region

Franklin P. Gumapon, Western Mindanao

Northern Mindanao

Local officials support “Matutum Biodiversity Corridor Proj” in Tupi, So. Cot31Pops Gumana-Fruylan, Central Mindanao

Army honors retirees25 Northern Mindanao

GenSan health office underscores 4-S strategy to fight dengue32Cathy Apelacio, Central Mindanao

26

Nora Aunor concludes shooting of new film in Tawi-Tawi37Rene V. Carbayas, Central Mindanao

DSWD, Zamboanga partner for Cassava prod’n project 22 Claro A. Lanipa, Western Mindanao

Photo Creditsjsl_bxu1206 - santa cruszan

Yul Nakila Jimenez© TERRA NOSTRA IMAGES

12 14 16 21

24 27 29 35

4 Monday, May 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO

Aside from the summer season, other reason why it is fun to spend vacation

in the Philippines is because of the festivals and street parties that are held in many places of the country as the month of festivals not only continues to entertain local and foreign tourists, but also brings prestige to the cultural heritage that Filipinos must be proud of.

Cover StoryBalangay Festival: a celebration of color, prestige and cultural heritage

For cheerful and peace-loving Filipinos, May is considered the most colorful month of the year as different festivities are held in most provinces of the country, showcasing talents, skills and cultural heritage of the people. In Butuan City, one festival that described the bravery and artistry of the Butuanons is featured in time with the city’s annual fiesta celebration in honor of patron saint – Senior San Jose (Saint Joseph the Worker). Held on the 19th of May, the

city government, through the city tourism adopts the whole

month as

Balangay Festival month, named after the balangay boats, the first wooden watercraft ever excavated in Southeast Asia. Also known as the Butuan boat, this artifact is an evidence of early Filipino craftsmanship and their seamanship skills during pre-colonial times.

by: Robert E. Roperos

Monday, May 14, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 5

The Balanghai Festival is also a

celebration in the city to commemorate the coming of the early migrants that settled the Philippines, on board the Balangay boats. When the first Spaniards arrived in the 16th century, they found the Filipinos living in well-organized independent villages called barangays. The name barangay originated from balangay, the Austronesian word for “sailboat”.

Opening of the month-long Festival In time with the nationwide celebration of Labor Day on May 1, 2012, the city government opened the month-long Balangay Festival with the ceremonial cutting of ribbon to signal the opening of Trade Fair in one of

the thoroughfares of the city. Aside from the

city’s local products,

showcased in the trade fair are products from other provinces not only in the region but as well as in Luzon and the Visayas regions. The trade fair is open from 8:00 in the morning until 12:00 midnight daily, including Saturdays and Sundays. Patterned from the “Night Café” in Cagayan de Oro City, the trade fair does not only featured clothing, souvenir items and dry goods but also foods and delicacies that entice visitors to have a taste of it. The exhibits will run until May 31, 2012. After the trade fair opening, local officials and guests proceeded to the


carnival, a ten-minute walk from the trade fair. Located at the Butuan City SPED Center Grounds, children will now have the chance to experience riding on ferry’s wheel, merry-go-round, and other fun rides. After haggling and shopping at Trade Fair, there’s more fun just at the corner, where amusement rides at the Carnival awaits everyone. Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. led the ceremonial opening of two of

the many featured events of the festival.

Balangay Festival Silver Year Mayor Amante has declared March 9, 2012 to March 8, 2013 as the Balangay (wooden boats) Festival Silver Year. As per Proclamation No. 1, series of 2012 signed by the city’s chief executive recently, it stated that the balangays of Butuan have been declared National Cultural Treasures by former President Corazon C. Aquino through Presidential Proclamation No. 86 dated March 9, 1987. The proclamation also stated that the balangays, since its proclamation as National Cultural Treasures have become the centerpiece of tourism activities and an icon of the annual fiesta celebration of the city. With March 19, 2012 marking the 25th year of its proclamation, the Sangguniang Panlungsod has expressed its sentiments to declare


March 9, 2012 to March 8, 2013 as the Balangay Silver Year, the proclamation stated. Meanwhile, in line with the year-long celebration, the Sangguniang Panlungsod also passed SP Resolution No. 220-2012, adopting the official logo of the Balangay Festival Silver Year Celebration. Thus, the City Tourism Council sponsored a logo-making contest for the aforementioned celebration, where the logo entry encircling a balangay boat with waves and the Year 2012 in the center and with the words “Balangay Festival Year” written in the upper inner silver circle and the words “Butuan City” written in the lower inner silver circle won the contest.

Mutya Hong Butuan – elegance of a true Butuanon beauty Touted as the longest-running and most prestigious beauty pageant in the city and the entire region, Mutya Hong Butuan exemplifies the true beauty of Butuanon youths of today vying for the most coveted title,

and becomes the Ambassador of Goodwill for the city.

To formally p r e s e n t

this year’s batch of candidates, a fashion buffet featuring the 11 official candidates was held on May 6, Sunday. Mutya candidates did the catwalk on the ramp, clad with the houte couture created by two renowned Butuan fashion designers, and a top Manila-based designer. C a n d i d a t e number one is Maria Arvie L. Baguhin, a first year Mass C o m m u n i c a t i o n student at Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU), the first and home grown university i n the city. A veteran when it comes to beauty contests having joined three of them, winning in two local contests, and placing 3rd runner-up in the Miss STEP national level. Her greatest dream is to finish her studies and be a broadcaster. C o m i n g in next is Bexly Beryl B. Onod, a 19 year-old AB in Mass Communication student at Saint Joseph Institute of Technology,


the only ISO-certified school in the city. When interviewed by the organizers, the future journalist said she joined the competition to develop self-confidence and enhance her self esteem.

T h i r d candidate is Lovely Mae Erika C. Monzor. Love, as fondly called by her family and friends, is 16 years old and dreams of

travelling around the world after she finishes her studies. She describes herself as a simple person, and really enjoys meeting and working with a lot of different people. She is a first timer in beauty contests who thinks that beauty pageants can help develop one’s personality. J o a n n a Patricia C. Ong is candidate number four. She is tall, pretty, charming and smart, who

wants to be a

doctor someday. At 16, she believes that anyone who has beauty and brains should join at least one beauty contest in her lifetime. One of her wishes is to wear the Mutya Hong Butuan crown, like two of her relatives who were previous winners of this beauty tilt. The fifth candidate is a registered nurse who wishes to help in the expansion of the church where her father is the church pastor. Her greatest dream is to be a prosperous servant to God… She is Loujane Gray Y. Radaza. Make way for candidate number six, Rachel Monique A. Torralba, a true blue Butuanon having come from two families whose family names cream PIONEERS. She is a BS in Business Administration M a r k e t i n g Managemen t student at Agusan Business and Arts Foundation, Inc. who is hoping to be a flight stewardess, and


to have a financially stable family in the future. She idolizes her mother for her strength and fortitude amidst the many challenges facing her family. Carla N. Exclamador was born in Libertad, Butuan City 17 years ago and believes in the motto “Simplicity is Beauty”. No wonder she describes herself as simple. She is the 1st runner-up of the Mutya Hong Libertad pageant, held during the barangay’s fiesta celebration on January 13, 2012. Will she make it also in the Mutya? In her desire to duplicate what her sister, Mary Ann has achieved being a Mutya Hong Butuan titleholder, candidate number eight – Kathlyn Q. Lawig tries her luck this year. She is a second year A c c o u n t i n g Te c h n o l o g y student of

FSUU, who is not a

novice to

beauty contests having participated in three previous contests which brought her the crown as Miss Urios 2008. Candidate number nine is Inah Sophia A. Dionen, a 16 year-old lass who was born in Quezon City to a Butuanon parents. She counts reading, surfing the net and watching TV as her hobbies and wants to be a CPA-Lawyer someday, along with her dream of being able to travel around the

world. She was Miss Timber City Academy in 2009 who claimed that she can’t live without a cellphone and a laptop. Describing herself as simple, friendly, outgoing and God-fearing is 16 year-old Janine Lara Arellano, candidate number 10, who loves w a t c h i n g movies and hanging out with friends. She is a fourth year student at the Agusan National High School and wants to be successful in


her chosen profession and wishes to travel around the world someday. Last but not the least is 16 year-old Jesslei Vemm Piquero, a fresh high school graduate from the Agusan National High School. She describes herself as perceptive and observant, not boisterous and very determined. She wants to finish her studies and land a good job and to be crowned Mutya Hong Butuan. With the wit, poise and experience that the 11 candidates of this year’s Mutya Hong Butuan possess, judges will definitely find hard in choosing the winner. Who will be this year’s titleholder? Find out… come, witness and feel the excitement at the coronation night on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gym. D-day

Highlighting the festival is the Grand Balangay Theater

Float Parade on May 19

– the feast of the city’s patron saint. Participated by private and public organizations and government regional offices, this is a parade of Balangay boat replica floats, being used as a stage for an artistic performance depicting the life, history and culture of Butuanons. Local theater artists will perform live parading on the city’s main avenues in their interpretation of this year’s theme: “One Boat, One People, One Butuan”. Last year’s winner, the Bureau

of Internal Revenue (BIR) Regional Office will again vie for the title and is expected to


give a good fight as they will defend the title they won. However, 2010 winner and last year’s 2nd placer – the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will surely do everything to take back what they own. Will the championship roving trophy, made from paper mâché and designed by a Butuanon, be handed down to the new winner, or will it remains in the hands of the defending champion? This is a must see event on May 19. Santacruzan To cap the month-long festival and a traditional activity of the month for Filipinos, this year’s “Santacruzan sa Butuan” features comely lasses

representing women, biblical and historical icons in the search for the grail. Mutya Hong Butuan beauties will lead the list of sagalas, with the title holder as “Reina Elena” while last year’s winner will portray the role of “Reina Emperatriz”. Passing on the major city streets, this year’s “Santacruzan sa Butuan” promises a celebration of color, beauty, and religious culture and heritage that Butuanons can be proud of. So what are you waiting for? Come and celebrate the Balangay Festival in Butuan City and experience the fun, beauty and excitement in this month of festivals, as we say… “It’s more fun in the Philippines… Butuan: Ato ini, kadyawon ta”.

12 Monday, May 14, 2012ONE MINDANAO

ACROSS THE NATION

In a press briefing aired over government-run radio dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Sunday, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said Filipinos should be responsible enough to clean their surroundings all year-round.

She said the spread of

the dengue virus is not confined only during the rainy season but also during the hot summer months.

“Kahit mainit ang panahon na nararamdaman natin ngayon, dapat patuloy ang ating paghahanda para maiwasan ang dengue. Sana ipatupad pa rin

natin ang ating paglilinis sa ating kapiligiran dahil nagsisimula naman sa atin yan,” Valte said.

She added that the Department of Health is in the thick of coordinating its anti-dengue campaign with local health units, specifically in Zamboanga

Malacañang calls on Filipinos to keep surroundings clean to prevent spread of dengue

Malacañang called on all Filipinos anew to do their share in preventing the spread of the dreaded dengue virus by keeping their surroundings clean and free from stagnant water, a known

breeding source of mosquitoes that carry the virus.


City, where an outbreak has recently

been reported.“Nakikipagtulungan na

po ang ating Department of Health doon sa local health units diyan para naman po maapula ang pagkalat

ng sinasabi nga po nilang dengue outbreak,” Valte said.

“Hindi lang po kasi ‘pag tag-ulan nagiging delikado tayo sa dengue. Kahit tag-araw, kahit medyo tag-init ay

kailangan tuloy-tuloy ang ating paghahanda at siguraduhing ang ating kapaligiran ay hindi pagbabahayan ng mga dengue-carrying mosquitoes,” she added. (RCK)

Aquino to address National Transport Conference in Marikina Monday

President Benigno S. Aquino III will address the transport leaders and stakeholders who will be participating in the National Transport Conference at the Marikina Hotel and Convention Center on Monday, May 14.

The President, who will be joined by Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, is expected to deliver a message that is in line with this year’s conference theme: “Buy as One Movement.”

This year’s National Transport Conference aims to encourage transport

organizations to purchase and choose a single product brand in order to avail of volume discounts under a cooperative setup for such incentives.

These products include spare parts and equipment as well as fuels and lubricants.

The conference, which

will be hosted by 1-United Transport Koalisyon, will be participated in by the various transport groups such as the Provincial Bus Operators Association of the Philippines and the Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines. (RCK)


Mindanao situation improves, fast tracking of additional power supply in the region still needed – Almendras

The Pulangui IV is back online adding 200MW

to the Mindanao grid after undergoing repairs and rehabilitation of the headrace channel which started on April 17.

“The successful repairs and rehabilitation is completed nine days ahead of schedule. We have received reports indicating that there are no more rotating blackouts in Mindanao for the past two days.” DOE Secretary Jose Rene Almendras announces. “We congratulate


the National Power Corporation (NPC) and their contractors who have completed the repairs way ahead of schedule. We also wish to thank the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, the electric cooperatives and distribution utilities who supported our initiatives to bring about these solutions. We look forward to your continued support as we address the solutions for 2013, 2014 and subsequent years ahead,” Secretary Almendras adds. S e c r e t a r y Almendras, however, notes that while the situation in the said region improved, the Mindanao power situation is still at a critical level. “I must insist that the power supply in Mindanao is still critical as there are no contingency reserves. Thus, in the event of a failure in any of the power generation equipment, this will

automatically result to a shortfall and blackouts. Therefore, we must not be complacent. We must continue to acknowledge the urgency of increasing the generation capacity in Mindanao,” Secretary Almendras stresses. To be able to address the critical power supply, Secretary Almendras enumerates the important initiatives that must be pursued: 1. Resolution of the problems in operating and rehabilitating the Iligan Diesel Power Plant that could add 100 MW in 7-8 months; 2. Rehabilitation and transfer of 120 MW of privately owned power barge generation; and3. The most cost efficient and speedy rehabilitation and transfer to Mindanao of the 96 MW of power barges presently operated by NPC; “It is important to highlight that despite the

absence of curtailment resulting to rotating blackout, we should focus on the urgent measures that we have to follow through,” Secretary Almendras says. Thus Secretary Almendras appeals to all the people in Mindanao and the local government units to cooperate and support these initiatives. “We must accelerate new power generation projects, both traditional and renewable energies,” he notes. He adds that there are several generation projects, including renewables, in Mindanao which should have been started in 2010 and could have contributed to the Mindanao power supply by early 2013, that are still not implemented. “We appeal to everyone to allow these initiatives to be started and accelerated as soon as possible.” Secretary Almendras stresses.


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Sec. Robredo to focus investigation of fire incident in Butuanby Robert E. Roperos

Interior and local government Secretary Jesse Robredo assured the public that the national government will focus

on the investigation of the early morning fire which gutted at least five establishments here on Wednesday. In a press conference conducted Saturday at the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP)

office here, Sec. Robredo said the marching order given by President Benigno S. Aquino III is for him

to conduct thorough investigation on the incident, citing that whoever is responsible should


answer consequences what was accorded with the law. “The marching order of the President is for the government to conduct thorough investigation on the matter… at papanagutin ang dapat managot (those responsible will be held liable),” he said. When asked what is the stand of the government on the issue of the old equipment and facilities of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) which hinders the personnel to respond in case of fire, Sec. Robredo stressed the government will continue to modernize the fire bureau not only in terms of equipment and facilities but as well as the manpower capabilities of the personnel. The DILG chief pointed out that aside from equipping the bureau with the latest equipment and facilities, personnel must be well equipped through skills enhancement in

responding not only in case of fire but as well as in any emergency cases where they are needed. However, Robredo said BFP will be more effective if fire prevention must be prioritized and not

on how fast the fire fighters respond to the incident. “Prevention is better that suppression,” Robredo said. Further, the DILG chief said the national government should see to


it that the management of Novo Jeans and Shirts will also do their part in extending whatever assistance they can give to the families of the victims. Robredo also instructed the local BFP here to submit report on the investigation they conducted on or before Wednesday next week. To start the independent investigation on the matter, Sec. Robredo along with a team from the Bureau

of Fire Protection (BFP) Fire Arson Investigation Section conducted an initial inspection at the building. Afterwhich, he led

the distribution of financial assistance to families of the victims as Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. witnessed the event.


Surigao del Sur Prov’l Gov’t supports National Greening Programby Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur-- The provincial government of Surigao del Sur strongly supports the National Greening Program (NGP) of President Benigno S. Aquino III. Under the program, the national government aims to plant 1.5 billion trees to 1.5 million hectares by 2016. According to Marjorie Pagaran, provincial government office staff, Governor Johnny Pimentel issued Memorandum Order No. 55 addressed to all the Provincial Department

Heads to support the NGP, thus, implement the tree planting activity to be participated by the provincial government employees here. Earlier report said 500 seedlings of Caballero species from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) were planted on Friday (May 4)

morning along the national highway from Kinahugan Bridge, Tandag going to Brgy. Balibadon, Cortes the first town in the northern part this province. During the conduct of the said activity, the heads from different department made sure that services to the public were not delayed.


Surigao Norte to hold ‘Pagkaong Surigaonon’ Food Fest

SURIGAO CITY -- Surigaonons and visitors will be treated to the locals’ purely distinct tasting dishes as the “Pagkaong Surigaonon” (Surigaonon Food) Food Festival will officially open on May 13-15, 2012 at the parking area inside the Provincial Sports Complex, this city. According to Prov’l Economic Enterprise Development and Management Officer Graciela Mante, the event is one of the series of activities in celebration of the 111th Founding Anniversary of Surigao on May 15, showcasing the exquisite food expertise of the province’s very own Surigaonon caterers. “Guests can witness their glamorous display and enjoy their sumptuous

eat-all-you-can offer from Sunday, May 13 to Tuesday, May 15,” Mante said. Meanwhile, Mante also urged representatives of each municipality to exhibit their cooking prowess as well as hotel and restaurant skills by joining the following contests on May 14 and 15 to include, Table Skirting, Table Setting, Flower and Fruit arrangement, Surigaonon Cuisine

Cooking Contest, Gigaquit Rhum Mixing, Kinilaw Preparation, and Surigao Native Delicacies. To register, Mante said they have to visit the PEEDM Office at the Provincial Sports Complex. The event is proudly organized by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte headed by Gov. Sol Matugas in partnership with the Surigao Caterers’ Association.

by Fryan E. Abkilan


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Pulangi 4 repair completed; Zambo brownouts lessened

“The rehabilitation of the Pulangi 4 hydroelectric power plant in Bukidnon has finally been completed, and was initially supplying 200 megawatts of its 255-MW installed capacity to the entire Mindanao grid as of last week,” announced Energy Undersecretary Josefina Asirit during a dialogue initiated recently by Mayor Celso Lobregat in City Hall in a bid to address the many problems arising from the power crisis that hit Mindanao since January.

by Vic Larato


Asirit, a lawyer, said the rehabilitation, which cost the state-run National Power Corp. P11 million, was completed days ahead of the original target date of May 17. “You are better off now with Pulangi plant plus the onset on the rainy season. That’s why you no longer experience rotational blackouts starting today,” Atty. Asirit told the power stakeholders attending the dialogue at City Hall conference room. Jesus Castro, project supervisor of the Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative (Zamceclo), explained that the re-operation of Pulangi hydro-plant significantly reduces the duration of the brownouts in the

city from 8-9 hours daily last month to probably 1 hr, and if the city’s energy demand stabilizes with the 18MW contracted power from the Therma Marine, Inc. , he projected with confidence that starting next month of June and onwards there will be no more rotational brownout in Zamboanga. Lobregat said the dialogue was an offshoot of a series of meetings here and the energy summit in Davao last April 13 in the hope of finding short, medium and long-term solutions to the energy situations not only in Mindanao but also in Zamboanga City. (JPA/VL/CIO/PIA9)

DSWD, Zamboanga partner for Cassava prod’n project

Around 600 households and farmers in the province shall be tapped for the Cash-for-Work program who shall be paid P2,000 monthly for the planting and growing

of cassava root crops. The project shall be tested in six municipalities for a 10-month period. These municipalities are Pitogo, San Miguel, Kumalarang,

By Claro A. LanipaPAGADIAN CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur has recently inked a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for a Cassava Production Project which aims to benefit the farmers of the province.


Mahayag, Aurora and Pagadian City. Each area will have 100 farmers and beneficiaries and they shall also earn the produce. DSWD’s role is to transfer funds in the amount of P3 million to the provincial government which shall be disbursed as cash-for-work for the farmers in accordance with project guidelines. DSWD shall also identify, organize and mobilize households who are covered by the Pantawid Pilipino program as target beneficiaries as well as monitor the implementation and provide technical assistance. The provincial government, led

by governor Antonio Cerilles through its agriculture office shall identify target areas and take the lead in the conduct of orientation and training of target beneficiaries on cassava production. The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office will also take part in the convergent effort by assisting in the social preparation of identified beneficiaries through the conduct of Family Development and Better Quality of Life Sessions (FDS and BQLs). Farmers will start to train on June in time for the July planting season. (ALT/DSWD9/PIA9/CAL)

To get the project implemented soon, the Dipolog City council has recently passed a resolution authorizing city Mayor Evelyn T. Uy to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with NIA Regional Irrigation Manager Alejandro L.

Alberca. The P25M shall be used to repair and rehabilitate the irrigation canals of the Dipolog Communal Irrigation System (DCIS), which covers around a thousand hectares of rice land. (JPA/FPG/PIA9)

NIA earmarks P25M for irrigation system rehab in Dipolog By Franklin P. Gumapon

DIPOLOG CITY - The National Irrigation Administration has allocated under its CY 2012 extension project P25 million for the rehabilitation of the irrigation system in this city.


1,000 residents benefit army’s MEDCAP

At least 1,000 people benefited from the free Medical and Dental Civic Action Program (MEDCAP) at Impalambong, Malaybalay City.

With the theme “Serbisyuhan ang katawhan ug panalipdan ang yutang natawhan (Serve the people, protect and defend homeland),” MEDCAP was organized by Alfa Battery, 10th Field Artillery Battallion, Assault Armored Battalion (10FAB, AAR) of the Philippine Army. Army First Lieutenant (1Lt.) Dee Jay P. Balisi, who facilitated the MEDCAP event, said that a total of 1,078 residents were served. “Of this number, 158 availed of the dental extraction, 106 boys aged five to 12 were circumcised, 86 availed of the free haircut, 208 were benefited of the medical check-up, and 520 village folks availed of the feeding program” he explained. Other patients also received medicines, while those who were waiting in line were served “arrozcaldo” (ginger flavored rice-chicken soup delicacy)–which was dished up

in coordination with the National Food Authority (NFA). A series of films entitled “Knowing the Enemy” were also shown and an artillery piece and armor asset were also displayed at the venue. In his message during the opening program, Lieutenant Col. Jose Valentin Y. Panadero, 10FAB, AAR Battalion Commander, said the activity was aimed at delivering basic services to uplift lives in the neighborhood that could help attain peace and


development in the community. “This MEDCAP is wholeheartedly offered to the Filipino people who are ultimate beneficiaries of internal peace and security efforts,” Pandero said.

This beneficial event, which is in line with the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” and Army Transformation Roadmap, was made possible through the help of Malaybalay City Mayor Ignacio W. Zubiri, NFA, Gama Foods 2 Poultry Farm, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, City Health Office, Artillery Foundation of the Philippines Incorporated-Northeastern Mindanao Alfa, 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade, 4th Division Training Unit, 43rd Civic Military Operations Company, private individuals and key government organizations, Lt.Col. Panadero further said. (JDPB,Alfa Battery, 10FAB, AAR, Phil. Army)

Army honors retireesCAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City - Army’s 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division conducted a testimonial parade in honor of the retiring military personnel at the Division’s Grandstand last May 4 here.

This parade in done to show the Command’s gratitude for the services and sacrifices these personnel had rendered for more than 30 years. This is also a farewell for them who have done their part as soldiers of the country. A total of 13 military personnel received this honor, which is only given to a compulsory retiring soldier, which means he had reach the age of 56 years old and have served for 30 years or more. The families of these personnel were also invited to witness this ceremony.

Aside from the honor of being conferred with a testimonial parade, these personnel were also awarded with a certificate of honorable service by MGen. Victor A. Felix, Commander 4ID. “Every soldier counts. They are important part of Team Diamond. It is just appropriate that we give them what they deserved, to be honored for their earnest and devoted service to our country and people. Anyway, these are just simple token these retiring soldiers will remember throughout their lives,” MGen. Felix said.


CdeO–Invest Mancom, TWG conveneINVEST official cites CdeO’s prospects as an economic hubCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Cagayan de Oro-INVEST Project Management Committee and Technical Working Group (TWG) convened on May 3 for a coordination meeting.

This is in relation to the city’s having been chosen as one of the three pilot cities in the country for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) project. Councilor Juan Sia, chair of the City Council committee on commerce and trade, concerned department heads and employees are members of the Invest Project Team in the city. During the meeting, INVEST Deputy Chief of Party Jovie Corazon Importante, cited the city’s distinct role in terms of business and investments. “We are looking at Cagayan de Oro as an economic hub,” she said. The city, together with the cities of Batangas and Iloilo, were selected because of strong potential for growth, with local governments committed to economic reforms and good governance and big and strong human resource base. According to the INVEST deputy, the project will have two

components: to streamline business process and a lower transaction cost and to improve investment planning and promotion in its partner cities. The outcome of this, she said, will increase domestic and foreign investment and enhance the performance of its target cities towards competitiveness. Promote CDO Chair Ruben Vegafria, who chairs the Project Management Committee, said this development is a sign that Cagayan de Oro is going to the direction that it wants to be. (LCR)


PNoy to grace MRDP awards in Davao

President Benigno S. Aquino III will hand over today (May 14)

the “Parangal sa mga Bosing ng Kanayunan” awards to local gov-ernment units (LGUs) and peoples organizations (POs) which exude noteworthy performance in imple-menting Mindanao Rural Develop-ment Program (MRDP) projects. The awarding ceremony highlights the People’s Organization

(POs) Congress which will be held at the Grand Regal Hotel in Davao City, providing a venue for MRDP organized POs and LGUs to be recognized as well as share their experiences, success stories and lessons learned from MRDP implementation. Among the LGUs to receive the award is Silay, Misamis Oriental of Region 10 as the Best Performing LGU implementing the MRDP Rural Infrastructure (RI) Project; Mati, Davao Oriental of Region XI as the Best LGU implementing

the MRDP Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD); Nasipit, Agusan del Norte of Region XIII as Best LGU implementing the MRDP Natural Resources Management (NRM)-Agro Forestry Management; Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat of Region XII as Best LGU implementing the MRDP NRM-Mangrove Rehabilitation and

by Jeanevive Abangan


Management; and Roseller T. Lim (a town), Zamboanga Sibugay of Region IX as Best Performing LGU implementing MRDP-NRM Fish Sanctuary Management. The municipal government of Roseller T. Lim will also be accorded a special citation for its rural infrastructure project implementation while the municipal government of Libungan, North Cotabato will also be receiving a special citation as the LGU to have shown overall sustainable CFAD Management. The only PO to receive the “Parangal ng Mga Bosing sa Kanayunan” is Doyos Eastern Coast Fishermen Consumers Cooperative of Carrascal, Surigao del Sur in Region XIII. It is being cited as the Best Performing PO implementing MRDP CFAD. Other than the awarding ceremony, the POs and LGUs will be sharing best experiences and

practices for others to learn from, and to guide them in undertaking projects rolled out under the MRDP. A program under the Department of Agriculture (DA), MRDP is a poverty alleviation initiative in Mindanao under the Adaptable Program Loan (APL) facility of the World Bank, covering 225 towns in the 26 provinces of Mindanao. Aside from RI, CFAD, NRM, Investment for Governance Reform (IGR) is one of the four major components of MRDP which rolls out a total combined funding of US$123.652 million from World Bank and from GOP-LGU counterparts. MRDP released information says that more than 3,500 POs have been organized through CFAD and NRM components, and that 124,866 households have benefited from CFAD alone. (PIA XI/Jeanevive Duron-Abangan)

facts and figures...

P174-millionweekly losses for banana exporters since March 5 when China started stricter regulations on banana imports from the Philippines.The stricter regulations imposed by China is often believed as an offshoot of the maritime territorial dispute between the two countries in a shoal over West Philippine Sea.


PO summit in Soccsksargen first in MindanaoBy Dani Doguiles and Lito Salvo

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato-- The Regional People’s Organization Congress on May 3 here was not only the first in the entire Soccsksargen Region but also the first PO gathering in the history of the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) in Southern Philippines, DA 12 Regional Ex-ecutive Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan said.


More than 300 individuals attended the summit. Among two-thirds of them were chairmen and members of POs; other participants included local chief executives, CFAD focal persons, municipal and provincial project management implementing units in the region.

“The presence of our mayors is a manifestation of their support to MRDP,” Datukan said.

She added that the collaboration between the POs and their respective local government units assures the success of the implementation of MRDP initiatives.

DA 12 Regional Technical Director and MRDP Regional head Dr.

Jimmy Olivo said “the regional PO summit was designed to prepare the region for the forthcoming Mindanao-wide gathering of POs.”

DA-MRDP’s 1st Mindanao PO Congress is slated on May 14 in Davao City where POs in the six regions in the entire Mindanao will convene to share developments of projects granted to them by the program and to discuss issues and concerns affecting them.

Participants of the regional summit here passed Resolution No. 01, series of 2012 requesting Pres. Benigno C. Aquino III to augment the existing funds of MRDP. They also appealed to local chief executives in the region to expedite

the implementation of the program in their areas.

They also recommend the formation people’s organization that caters specifically to Muslim communities.

The resolution will be presented during the Mindanao PO congress where Pres. Aquino is expected to come.

During her presentation of the general updates of MRDP projects, MRDP CFAD coordinator Shiela Siago pointed out that of the six regions in Mindanao, Soccsksargen has been a consistent top performer with regard to implementation of project implementation.

“Region 12 gets almost a billion from the World Bank where a lion’s share of the amount funded the region’s rural infrastructure projects,” she said.

Soccsksargen Region covers the provinces of North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and Sarangani and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal City, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

RTD Olivo said, “looking at the map of


Central Mindanao, it is already half-filled with MRDP projects.”

Before the summit here ended, a raffle was drawn where the top prizes included two rice threshers, two corn mills, four carabaos, ang laminated sacks (trapal).

At least one thousand banana suckers were also raffled off along with seedlings of mangosteen, marang, guyabano, rambutan, and jackfruit. Provided

by AgriPinoy Rice, Corn, High Value Crops and Livestock programs of DA.

Formal turn-over of these items is slated on May 31, along with the awarding of Gawad Saka regional winners.

MRDP is a medium term development intervention that addresses poverty reduction designed and implemented by DA. The program is funded by the World Bank with the national government

(DA), and the LGUs which provide an equity share.

The program has four components: Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD), Rural Infrastructure (RI), Natural Resources Management (NRM), and Investment Governance Reform (IGR).(DEDoguiles- PIA 12 with report from LMSalvo-DA RAFID 12)

Local officials support “Matutum Biodiversity Corridor Proj” in Tupi, So. CotBy Pops Gumana-Fruylan

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The municipal government of Tupi, South Cotaba-to expressed its full support to the planned establishment of a biodiversity corridor inside the Mt. Matutum Protected Landscape (MMPL) in an effort to preserve and protect the remaining watershed and wildlife in the area.

According to a report from the local government information center, a consultative meeting and planning workshop was conducted recently in the municipality which discussed initiatives to address the continuous wildlife extinction inside the

landscape of the 2,000-meter high volcano due to habitat loss.

The meeting, it said, focused on two objectives: “to harmonize existing e n v i r o n m e n t a l initiative to i n s t i t u t i o n a l i z e Biodiversity and

Eco-Tourism Project on MMPL, and to develop a workable plan to empower the local communities in the sustainable management of Biodiversity Corridor and Eco-Cultural Tourism project in MMPL.”

Dr. Nelson M. Pampolina,


an associate professor from the University of the Philippines (UP) Los Baños, shared with barangay officials and other stakeholders present the significance of instituting a biodiversity corridor not only for wildlife preservation but also to protect the remaining watershed in the MMPL.

“Biodiversity is very essential for our survival, and it is our responsibility to take

care of the natural resources that is given to us by God,” the local government information center quoted Pampolina as saying.

Earlier, Ali Hadjinasser, Protected Areas and Wildlife Division (PAWD) chief of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 12 underscored the importance of establishing a biodiversity corridor

inside the MMPL to protect one of the main sources of water in the region.

He said there are so many threats facing the Mt. Matutum Protected Landscape and one is the massive conversion of forest area into agricultural use which is detrimental to watershed areas.

The PAWD Chief revealed that there is a need to protect the Mt. Matutum watershed as it supplies 30% of the


water requirements of the provinces of South Cotabato and Sarangani, and the City of General Santos (Socsargen).

Meanwhile, Mayor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. also shared his

commitment for the establishment of the said project as he emphasized the value of giving balance to “environment and development.”

“We need to balance our development

initiatives with nature, and so I am fully supporting this biodiversity corridor project,” the mayor said. (PGFruylan/PIA-Gensan with reports from LGU Tupi, SoCot)

GenSan health office underscores 4-S strategy to fight dengueGENERAL SANTOS CITY-- Despite the reported decrease of dengue cases in Region 12, the City Integrated Health Services Office (CIHSO) here remains in full alert for possible new cases or outbreak.

by Cathy Apelacio

Dr. Edgardo Sandig, CIHSO chief said health personnel will be on

their toes to monitor and conduct surveillance of any dengue cases

in the city particularly in vulnerable areas bounded by rivers,


are breeding grounds of mosquitoes.

He said the CIHSO is undertaking surveillance on Barangays City Heights, Labangal, Apopong and San Isidro since dengue cases in these areas have increased.

The CIHSO personnel have also been going around barangays here to promote the 4-S strategy which stands for search and destroy; self protection measure; seek early consultation; and say No to indiscriminate fogging.

Earlier, the Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) said Region 12’s dengue cases have dropped to at least 40 percent in the last three months.

It also assured the viral disease is under control in Region 12.

But Sandig said he was not discounting any possible dengue outbreak considering the sporadic change in climate that may trigger the resurfacing of the deadly dengue illness.

Based on DOH-CHD record, the case of dengue in the region as of April this year is 452, lower by at least 300 compared to last year’s record.

The agency also confirmed four deaths this year while only three was posted last year.

In General Santos City and Sarangani, a u t h o r i t i e s d o c u m e n t e d

two deaths each due to complications caused by dengue shock syndrome.

Of the cases, DOH-CHD said 43 percent of these were simple dengue fever while 56 percent has been transformed to dengue hemorrhagic fever, which is more “severe and potentially deadly infection.”

In North Cotabato, it said there were 137 cases of dengue, the highest so far followed by General Santos City at 102; South Cotabato, 78; Cotabato City, 59; Sarangani, 43; and Sultan Kudarat, 33.

According to the regional epidemiology and surveillance unit (RESU), the city of Cotabato has a seven percent increase of dengue cases this year compared to last year.

Although there were two confirmed deaths, General Santos City and Sarangani still highlighted a decrease of 12 and 26 percent in dengue cases, respectively. (CTA/PIA General Santos City)


Gov. Tan approved recently the formulation of a Provincial Tourism Master Plan aimed to establish a clear direction and provide the necessary information and strategies to develop a viable tourism Industry in Sulu. Tan pointed out that the Island province of Sulu has a clear advantage when it comes to tourism

due to its natural beauty, unique environment structure and refined white sand beachfronts much sought by local and foreign travellers. “The people of Sulu are losing so much for years of neglect of this untapped resource, the development of tourism in Sulu can be the biggest source of income and revenue for

Sulu Governor Abdusakur M. Tan and the Provincial Government are now setting their sights in developing tourism in the province.

By Rene V. Carbayas

Sulu keen on developing Tourism Industry


the province and its people,” Tan emphasized. As an initial phase, a Sulu tourism multi- stakeholder’s forum was held on May 9, 2012 at the Provincial Capitol building, Governor’s Conference Room. Those who attended the forum were Regional Director Mary June Bugante of the

Department of Tourism Region 9 and Asst. Regional Secretary Hon. Bai Shalimar Candao of the Department of Tourism–ARMM. The Forum aimed to gather insights into the development and identify potential tourist destinations in the province. (ALT/Sulu-PIO/RVC/PIA9)

The controversial Cannes-film winning director Mendoza said in an interview that “this cultural and dramatic film would portray the people of Mindanao, especially, Tawi-Tawi and that they [the people of Mindanao] are [also] capable of loving.” “That in spite of the troubles and conflicts evident in Mindanao, there are people here, who are capable of loving and are peaceful as well,” Mendoza stressed.

Nora Aunor concludes shooting of new film in Tawi-TawiISABELA CITY - The Superstar Nora Aunor, her co-stars and the film’s crew have just concluded their shooting recently of Brillante Mendoza’s new film entitled “Thy Womb”- a love drama portraying a Bajau couple’s sacrosanct relationship as husband and wife though unblessed with offspring.

By Rene V. Carbayas


Mendoza also said that they have chosen Tawi-Tawi as a location shooting because it delivers the scenario and the characters needed for the film and that this film would somehow. Shooting took place in at least 3 locations: the island-towns of Bongao, Sitangkai and Taganak. Provincial Information Officer Nash Tahang said the locals were elated, honored and grateful to the film-makers for choosing the province to be the location for the Superstar’s new film. Vice Governor Ruby Sahali said that this movie will eventually help pump prime the exposure of the province’s tourism potentials.

“These are the days Tawi-Tawi shines with the superstar,” she said. Aunor plays the lead character as a midwife named Salehah and is co-starred by Bembol Roco as Bangas-an, Lovi Poe and Mercedes Cabral with a support cast from the locals of Tawi-Tawi. The movie depicts the seafaring Bajau tribe of Tawi-Tawi, their culture and tradition and it tells the story of a Bajau woman who is more than willing to endure personal sacrifice for the sake of her eternal love for her husband. (JPA/NT-PIO/RVC-PIA9)

one mindanao - may 14, 2012

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