one mindanao - may 17, 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

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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Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)ViceMayors’LeagueofthePhilippinesBldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephoneno.(085)341-5285/360-1239Telefaxno.(085)341-2370Cellphoneno.0917-7188834Email:[email protected],[email protected],phBlogspot:www.piacaraga.blogspot.comFacebook:PIACaragaUpdates,PIAAgusandelNorte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur

Cover Story

Lindy finds hope in 4Ps

Stella Maris V. BarcelonCaraga Region

Today’s issue... Thursday, May 17, 2012 Vol. 1 No. 259

page 4

Grace Almedilla, Southern Mindanao

Aquino says retail convention serves to further strengthen industry players and stockholders’ role in nation building and progress

8Zambo Int’l Airport interior design contest good for investment, tourism

DA Secretary Alcala meets ComVal Farmers12SoCot villages eye declaration of state of calamity15

DOLE-Caraga to ink MOA with stakeholders, organizations on occupational safety, health

Dani Doguiles, Central Mindanao

Danilo S. Makiling, Caraga Region

Michael D. Cajulao, Western Mindanao

Dipolog bats for strict implementation of waste segregation policy30Franklin P. Gumapon, Western Mindanao

OWWA chief to OFW dependent scholars: “Bring honors to your parents”24Ritchel Molero, Caraga Region

Production of crops, fruits and vegies in NorMin, up 44.70% in 201134Rutchie C. Aguhob, Northern Mindanao

27Pangavukad Festival ng Kidapawan City, nagsimula na 16 SJDuerme, Central Mindanao

23OWWA-10 releases assistance to dependents of deceased OFWs32Apipa P. Bagumbaran, Northern Mindanao

6 9 11 13

18 21 26 32

4 Thursday, May 17, 2012 ONE MINDANAO

She walked fast to the side counter, carefully putting back the documents inside her plastic envelope making sure all things

are intact, then, she carefully counts her money bills that the teller gave her.

Cover StoryLindy finds hope in 4Ps

She is Lindy M. Amoguis, 36 years old and a mother of two children. Lindy is one of the 4,317 Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries from Purok 6, Barangay San Roque, City of Bislig, Surigao del Sur. Before Pantawid Pamilya came to Bislig City, Lindy was worried what the future holds for her two children-Andressa, 12 years, Mae Ann Rose, 11 years old and for the baby that is still inside her womb. “Sometimes I am worried of the thought when the baby arrives;

we have no money for vaccination, and check-

up. Where will we get the money then,

when we are

a l r e ady having difficulties meeting our daily consumptions,” expressed Lindy. Her husband, Danilo is a farmer and earns a maximum income of P3,000 a month, which is not enough for a family of four. In December 2011, Lindy saw a glimmer of hope when the local officials of Bislig City announced and posted the potential beneficiaries of the program in their respective barangays… she was overjoyed when she saw her name on the list.

by Stella Maris V. Barcelon

Thursday, May 17, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 5

Lindy said during one of their community assemblies, the Municipal Link Officer (MLO) presented to them the conditions of the program. “When I read the conditions, those were exactly what I want my children to have.” Lindy wants her children to be healthy and educated. She is now assured for the regular vaccination and check-up for her baby, because the program has a monthly cash grant of P500.00 for health. “With the cash grant I can buy milk and vitamins for my children,” Lindy also added that even before the program, she often went to the health center for her pre-natal check-up. “The money I have saved for my delivery has been gradually depleted. Some of it has already been used to buy food. I was also planning to use the remaining savings for my children’s school dues, but now I don’t have to do it because with this cash grant that I receive, I can already pay

their school dues. The release of cash grant is

so timely because classes are about to end and

we need to pay their s c h o o l

fees,” Lindy shared with a smile while putting her P2,200 cash grant in her purse. Lindy just received her first Pantawid Pamilya cash grant for the months of January, February, and March, amounting to P3,300.00. With Pantawid Pamilya, Lindy is ready to face the life ahead. Aware that the program is only for five years, Lindy said, “I will make sure that what the government has given to us will be used on education and nutrition of our children.” Lindy got her umbrella from the side table, slowly getting herself up while holding her belly. With some few steps Lindy reached for the door, for a while, she stopped and reached for her pocket slightly clutching it, just to make sure her purse is still there, then she smiled and went out full of hope and optimism.

6 Thursday, May 17, 2012ONE MINDANAO

ACROSS THE NATION

In his speech keynoting the 7th Tindahan ni Aling Puring Sari-Sari Store Convention held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on Wednesday, the President

told the participants that they could count on the government as a partner in the upliftment and betterment of their lives. And this, the President

said, has started with the easing of requirements needed to put up a small business.

He pointed out that the usual practice of having to

Aquino assures sari-sari store owners of continued government assistance

President Benigno S. Aquino III assured sari-sari store owners, micro, small and medium enterprise advocates and entrepreneurs of continued government support in their endeavors in order for them

to effectively run their respective businesses.


go from office to office just to get the required papers to register a business has now been made easy through the Philippine Business Registry and Business Name Registration System.

“Hindi po ba’t noon, kulang na lang ay tumambling ka patungo sa iba’t ibang opisina, sa iba’t ibang sulok ng ating mga bayan para lang makakuha ng mga papeles tulad ng PAG-IBIG at SSS? Imbes na gobyerno po ‘nung araw ang tutulong sa inyo, parang sila pa ang naghahatid ng perwisyo. Ngayon po, napabilis na natin ang mga proseso para sa business registration sa pamamagitan ng ating Philippine Business Registry at Business Name Registration System,” the President said.

He added that the simple task of getting a business permit is now undergoing tweaking and fine-tuning in order to make it easier.

“Mayroon na rin po tayong SME Caravans na nag-iikot sa iba’t ibang

rehiyon ng bansa upang mahikayat ang ating mga kababayan na magnegosyo o kaya ay mapalago ang kanilang kasalukuyang negosyo. Sa katunayan, mula po Abril ng 2011, umabot na sa dalawampu’t apat na lugar sa iba’t ibang panig ng bansa ang nabisita ng naturang Caravan. Halos labing-walong libong Pilipino po ang nakiisa sa atin dito,” he added.

The President said that the easing of rules and requirements of putting up a business in the country has been felt around the world and is seen with the increasing confidence international business communities have on the country to invest here.

“Maging ang ibang

bansa, ramdam na rin ang pagbabago sa Pilipinas. Dahil sa mabuting pamamahala, patuloy na tumataas ang kumpiyansa ng mga negosyante—lokal man o dayuhan—na mamuhunan sa atin pong bayan,” the President said.

He enjoined all Filipinos to make their dreams for themselves and their families a reality by investing their skill anjd fortitude in becoming a business owner and entrepreneur.

“Ang pangarap, magsimula man sa pira-piraso, ay posibleng makamit kapag tinambalan ng sigasig at pagsusumikap. Sama-sama po nating paunlarin ang ating bayan tungo sa mas masaganang kinabukasan,” the President said.(RCK)


Aquino says retail convention serves to further strengthen industry players and stockholders’ role in nation building and progress

President Benigno S. Aquino III lauded the holding of the 7th Tindahan ni Aling Puring Sari-Sari Store Convention at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on Wednesday, saying the event provided industry players, members and stockholders a chance to

improve and manage more effectively their businesses for increased profits through exchanges and interactions with experts, top managers and producers.

In his speech keynoting the event, the President also said the retail convention showcases the important role retailers and small store owners play towards nation building and progress.

“Sa ika-pitong pagkakataon, muling magsisilbing entablado ang programang ito upang kilalanin ang mahalagang papel ng mga negosyante ng micro, small and medium enterprises sa kaunlaran ng ating ekonomiya,” the President said.

He pointed out that the retail industry plays a significant role in the nation’s overall economic health as it comprised 13 percent or P1.3-

trillion out of the Philippines’ P9.7-trillion gross domestic product (GDP) for 2011.

“Tandaan po natin: marami sa sektor na ito ay nagmumula sa micro, small and medium enterprises, o sa mga maliliit na negosyong tulad ng mga sari-sari store,” the President said.

He added that because of this important role, retail companies such as the Puregold Price Club, Inc., owner of the famous retail chain Puregold and lead convenor of the event, has provided its members, store owners and stakeholders a chance to improve on their business.

“Dito, personal niyong

makakaharap at makakausap ang mga kapwa ninyo negosyante, maging ang inyong mga trade suppliers at product manufacturers. Pagkakataon po ito para makipag-ugnayan at magbahagi ng mga ideyang pangkaunlaran sa isa’t isa,” the President said.

“Sa pamamagitan naman ng mga training, seminar, at workshop, maaaring mapayabong ang inyong kaalaman at kakayahan sa pagnenegosyo. Matuturuan kayong mas maging epektibo na sa tamang pamamalakad ay mapalago ninyo ang inyong mga tubo,” he added. (RCK)


LGUs, Mindanao fishers receive P13M aid

President Benigno C. Aquino III led the awarding of citations and handing over of P13 million worth of rural assistance for the best performing local government units and one people’s

organization (PO) in implementing the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) projects. Aquino bestowed the awards and assistance during the “Parangal sa mga Bosing ng Kanayunan” awarding ceremony at MRDP’s People’s Organization (POs) Congress held on Monday at the Grand Regal Hotel, Davao City. The President was assisted by Secretary Proceso Alcala of the Department of

Agriculture that spearheads the implementation of MRDP in 26 provinces covering 225 municipalities and 1,920 barangays in Mindanao. In his message after the awarding rites, Aquino thanked DA and all other key stakeholders of MRDP including the POs for being partners of the government

in fast-tracking progress in Mindanao. “Kasama ang People’s Organizations, tuloy-tuloy na po tayo sa paghahatid ng liwanag ng pag-asa at masaganang bukas sa bawat sulok ng Pilipinas (Together with people’s organizations, we continue to shed light and hope towards a prosperous


future for the Philippines),” he told about 1,200 participants of MRDP POs Congress. The President handed over the Best Performing PO award to Doyos Eastern Coast Fishermen Consumers Cooperative (DECFISCOCO) of the municipality of Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, Region 8, for successfully implementing MRDP Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD) project. DECFISCOCO Chair Tito T. Garcia received on the coop’s behalf, P1 million worth of post-harvest facilities. DA said that from the P200,000 grant from DA-MRDP, the cooperative comprising of fisher folk members has learned to maximize meager financial resource through efficient and transparent procurement system. The coop now owns 11 pump boats as fishing vessels which have increased their catch from barely five kilograms a day to at least 50 kilos daily. Among the recognized LGU was the municipality of Salay in Misamis Oriental of Region 10, for its good construction and management of all the farm-to-market road projects under MRDP Rural Infrastructure project. Salay LGU represented by Mayor Romeo L. Gue, Sr. also received P5 million-worth of rural infrastructure assistance.

The LGU of Mati City, Davao Oriental in Region 11 was conferred of the Best Performing LGU award for its outstanding implementation of MRDP Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD). The LGU was able to cause an increase of its farmers’ income through the cattle and goat production projects. Aside from the award, Mati City LGU received through Mayor Michelle Marie Denise N. Rabat, P2.5 million worth of rural infrastructure projects. Another LGU awardee was the municipality of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte of Region XIII for implementing MRDP’s Natural Resources Management (NRM)-Agro Forestry Management project that provided alternative income to its beneficiaries. The project has brought about the organization of the Jamiguitan Farmers’ Cooperative to implement the Community-Based Agroforestry Project to protect and conserve the Jamiguitan watershed. For these achievements, the Nasipit LGU was given the award and the P1.5 million worth of Natural Resources Management Sub-project which were accepted by Mayor Roscoe Democrito B. Plaza. The President also handed over the Best LGU

award to Mayor Rolando P. Garcia of the municipality of Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat of Region 12 for implementing the MRDP NRM-Mangrove Rehabilitation and Management project. Garcia accepted the P1.5 million worth of NRM sub-project. In Region 9, the Best Performing LGU was accorded to the municipality of Roseller T. Lim, Zamboanga Sibugay, for implementing the MRDP-NRM Fish Sanctuary Management. R.T. Lim Mayor Michel Arnada Pioneda received P1.5 million worth of NRM sub-projects for the said town which was also bestowed of a special citation for its rural infrastructure project implementation under MRDP. Another special citation was conferred to the LGU of Libungan, North Cotabato in Region XII for its exemplary performance and overall sustainable management of CFAD. Libungan Mayor Manuel dela Serna represented the municipality in the awarding rites. DA said more than 3,500 POs have been organized under MRDP through its CFAD and NRM components, benefiting around 124,866 households from CFAD alone.


Planned Davao sales mission to Beijing cancelled by Rudolph Alama

The planned June sales mission to Beijing spearheaded by the

Department of Tourism Region XI (DOT-XI)has been cancelled as tensions between the two coun-tries over disputed areas in the West Philippines Sea spills over to tourism. Eden Larano Chief Tourism Operations Officer of DOT-XI said that they had been advised by the tourism attaché in Beijing that the schedule of the sales mission is “too close for

comfort.” The Davao Cultural Festival in the Chinese capital was supposed to be held from June 11 to June 30. Though there has been no official memo yet from their Chinese tourism counterparts however Chinese travel agencies and tour operators had been advised to suspend promotions to the Philippines Larano however clarified that there is no travel ban issued by the government of China barring its citizens to visit the country.

The travel cancellations started in May 10 amidst concerns on the safety of Chinese citizens amidst protest actions against China, an offshoot of the standoff between the two countries at the disputed Scarborough Shoal, a reef 124 nautical miles west of Zambales. According to figures from the Department of Tourism about 1,500 to 2,000 Chinese tourists have cancelled their flight to the country


since May 10. Among those affected included bookings in Boracay, Bohol and Cebu. Larano said that they had hoped to equal or surpass the success of the previous sales mission to Beijing held in June last year. The 2011 Davao Cultural Festival held in Marco Polo Beijing resulted in Davao being featured in Chinese broadcast media particularly the Chinese national television network CCTV, attracted interest among Chinese tour operators

and travel agencies plus a chartered flight of Chinese executives on a company incentive visit.China is the fourth largest market for Philippine tourism next to South Korea, the United States and Japan. In Davao Region China ranks third in the East Asian market next to Japan and South Korea. An average Chinese tourist stays in the country for 3.5 days and spends about P4,000 per day. (PIA/RG Alama)

DA Secretary Alcala meets ComVal FarmersCOMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE-----Department Secretary of Agricul-ture Proceso J. Alcala paid a visit to the province last May 15, 2012 and had a dialogue with the officials led by Governor Arturo T. Uy during a working lunch held at the Provincial Capitol. He then proceeded to the ACN Gymnasium in Poblacion Nabunturan for a Farmers Consultation and Farmers’ Field School Mass Graduation of more than a thousand farmers. He was warmly welcomed by the local officials, heads of national agencies, Agriculture Program Coordinators, farmers, growers, producers, fisherfolks, members of Rural Improvement Club, 4-H Club, Irrigators’ Association, and other guests.Other activities were the turn-over

ceremonies of DA Production Support, MRDP Project & BSWM Funded Project, and the Sectoral Consultation (Rice, Corn, HVCDP, Livestock and Fishery Sectors). Secretary Alcala has graced several activities of many other provinces nationwide and targets to visit more provinces in the coming months purposely to address the needs and concerns of the farmers, fisherfolks, and the local officials. His department spearheads the nationwide observance of the Farmers’ and Fisherfolks’ Month in the whole month of May. As its share the province of Compostela Valley has joined the celebration through the conduct of a livestock technology and Negosyong Pinoy Caravan for the livestock farmers. (grace almedilla, ids-comval)


It’s all systems go for SarBay FestBy Jun Ramos

GUMASA, Sarangani– A bigger and grander Sarangani Bay Festival awaits water sports enthusiasts, beach lovers, partygoers, tourists and locals alike as the biggest beach festival in Mindanao takes off Friday (May 18) and peaks with the sunset-until-sunrise party.


“This year’s SarBay is expected to be the grandest and hopefully the biggest in the country in terms of visitors and tourist arrivals,” said Larry Asparin, acting coordinator of Sarangani Tourism and Investment Promotions Center.

“Preparations have been done right after last year’s SarBay to address the gray areas specifically the venue, security, waste management and water supply,” Asparin said.

The SarBay main venue this year is a three-hectare space between White Haven Resort and Rosal Beach Resort. It will host the events, stores, “tent

city” and parking space. The Zumba Party has

been replaced with a Beach Dance Marathon Party due to issues raised by a former proponent, sportswriter Lito delos Reyes.

“As the co-chairman of the Sarangani Bay Festival 2012, we have acknowledged the concern of Lito de los Reyes about the Zumba Party,” Michelle Solon said in a statement.

“There are Zumba Parties in the entire country such as the ones done in Boracay, Manila, Puerto Galera, Cebu, etc. We have taken note of his concern and passion for the Latin inspired dance. At such the Sarangani

Bay Festival organizers have now changed the event to a Beach Dance Marathon Party to be enjoyed for free on May 19, 2012. I thank Lito de los Reyes for his deep concern, because it helps the Sarangani Bay Festival even become better and more successful,” said Solon, who also chairs both the provincial tourism council and Region 12 tourism council.

SarBay Fest kicks off with the 15-kilometer “Sarangani Bay Invasion 2012” or swim-across-the-Bay from Maasim to Glan on May 18. It is the longest open ocean swimming competition in the Philippines and


SoCot villages eye declaration of state of calamityBy Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – Local government officials in Norala and Tupi towns are considering declaration of state of calamity to be able to immediately extend assistance to affected families and implement appropriate recovery efforts.

Chairman Ruben Francisco of Barangay Matapol, Norala said he met with the village council yesterday to decide moves to help the families affected by a twister the other day and discuss appropriate measures for recovery.

“Six of our seven puroks (sub-villages) were affected by the very strong winds,”

Francisco said, affecting at least 43 houses and a chapel.

“Based on our initial estimates, damage was valued at P218,000,” he said. “ Damage to crops, including palay, was estimated at about P100,000.”

Francisco said, they are initially considering giving P1,000 to P5,000 fund aid to affected families.

The twister, according to the village official, tore off roofs of houses and uprooted trees.

No lives were lost in the incident.

Besides Matapol, Barangay Simsiman was also struck by the very strong winds around 3:00 p.m. Monday afternoon, following a heavy downpour.

Reports that reached

probably in Asia.Hobie cats will be

in Gumasa with other water sports activities like skim boarding, Bombo Bancarera and the 1st Jetski Offshore Adventure.

In addition, a new SarBay Fest activity is the paragliding in Maasim. The Sarangani Paragliding Club will organize a fun fly paragliding accuracy

landing competition on May 18-20.

The rest of the events and activities are: Smarts’ Run for the Environment, Beach Dance Marathon, Sarangani Swim Challenge, Sand Sculpture, Coastal Clean up, Scubasurero, Artificial Reef Deployment, Bay Fair, Health and Wellness, Sayaw Sarangan: Hataw sa Tag-araw,

Beach Volleyball, Beach Football, Skim Boarding Clinic, Poi and Zip Clinic, Pinta sa Baybayon, Fire Dancing Exhibition, Bay Bodies, Summer Party at the Bay (with Beat Lab DJ’s), Bombo Radyo Bancarera and the all night beach party from sunset until sunrise. (Jun Ramos/SARANGANI I N F O R M A T I O N OFFICE)


PIA 12, say that at least 19 houses in Barangay Simsiman sustained damages.

Norala’s Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) assured assistance to the affected families once the affected villages have submitted their reports.

Meanwhile, Tupi LGU have also promised assistance to the families affected by flashfloods and landslide that occurred in remote Sitio Tucay-el, Barangay Cebuano also on Monday afternoon.

Emil Sumagaysay, disaster coordinator of Tupi MDRRMO, reported that 56

families were affected. One house was totally damaged while 24 other sustained partial damage, several farm animals were also reported lost from the flashflood and landslide in the area.

Sumagaysay said, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the Mines and Geoscience Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 12, have already sent personnel to conduct ocular inspection help assess the damage and help the affected villagers.

Tupi LGU is also considering declaration of state of calamity

for this part of the municipality as well relocation of families in the area to prevent further damages or loss of lives.

Assistance is also being prepared by the South Cotabato Provincial DRRMO and the Department of Social Welfare and Development-12 for the affected villages in two municipalities.

DSWD 12 disaster operations focal person Bonifacio Selma said, the department is prepared to extend help to affected families if augmentation to municipal and provincial LGU aid is necessary. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)

Pangavukad Festival ng Kidapawan City, nagsimula naLUNGSOD NG KORONADAL, South Cotabato — Pormal nang sinimulan noong lunes, Mayo 14, ang Pangavukad o Flower Festival sa lungsod ng Kida-pawan na siyang magtatagal ng dalwang linggo.

Ang “pangavukad” ay isang katutubong salita na katumbas ng salitang

“namumukadkad” sa wikang Filipino.

Ang nasabing pagdiriwang noong

lunes ay ginanap sa pavilion ng city hall na siyang dinaluhan naman


nina Association of Cotabato Tourism Officers President Mark Adrian Rabara, City Mayor ng Kidapawan Rodolfo Gantuangco at mga local na opisyal ng naturang lungsod.

Isa sa mga pinakahiyas ng selebrasyon ang garden show kung saan tampok ang mga bulaklak, pananim, at mga garden landscapes ng mga lokal na flower growers, landscape artists, ornamental plant growers at

bonsai growers. Maliban

dito,magkakaroon din ng photo exhibit at mga paligsahan sa flower arrangement, paggawa ng landscape at bonsai decors.

N a k a s e n t r o ang Pangavukad Festival sa temang, “Kidapawan City: Flourishing for

environmentally and socially-responsive citizens.”

Ang Pangavukad Festival ngayon ay ika-anim na taon ng pagdiriwang ng lungsod ng Kidapawan na nasa paanan ng Mt. Apo, ang pinakamataas na bundok sa bansa. (SJDuerme/PIA 12)


Public urged to hone nationalism at home towards peace-building By Rene V. Carbayas

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles called on the public to hone nationalism starting with themselves and within

their own homes to help create a community of peace.


In a press statement, Deles pointed out that “the work of nation-building, the work of developing a Philippines that the Filipinos really care for, that’s the job of everyone.” Deles made this call as she spoke before students of the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) in a lecture entitled “Piecing Together the Peace Process: The Status of the Philippine Government Negotiations with the CPP/NPA/NDF, MNLF and MILF” held in Quezon City. Participants were composed of senior military officers, government officials and executives and individuals from private sectors. Deles emphasized that the Philippines, even by sheer geography inevitably is going to be a country of different cultures, the one who lives in the central plains of Luzon and the one who lives in a small island in the Visayas is going to have a different perspective. “Unless there is some appreciation that in fact this rainbow

of cultures is going to enrich me instead of scare me the way it is done now – “Matakot ka sa Bumbay, matakot ka sa Moro” – the racism in this country does not make for peace.” She reiterated the need for the public to have a stake in the on-going peace processes in the country because it is not just the job of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) alone and that for a peace agreement to be lasting and durable there has to be broad ownership, it cannot be owned only by those who sit on the table. During the lecture, Deles presented the big picture being covered by the current administration’s peace plan including the on-going peace talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the recently agreed upon 10 Decision Points on Principles signed by the two parties at the 27th Formal


Exploratory Talks held in Malaysia last April. With the document made public, she appealed to Filipinos to take part in this process: “Look at it, study it, and if you have questions – ask.” Just as she restated that as part of the President’s mandate, the current peace process always strives to be inclusive and transparent. “We have our panels going around doing consultations. We are working with both Houses of Congress. We are consulting with former Supreme Court justices, and we are having frequent consultations with civil societies and LGUs (local government units),” she said.

As part of its efforts to extensively reach out to the ground, OPAPP recently opened a Communications Office stationed in Central Mindanao. Despite the difficulties ahead, the presidential adviser remains optimistic about the direction the talks are going. “If you look at the starting positions, we are quite distant from each other. But I tell you - if people are practical, if people are thinking of moving ahead and finally coming to an agreement I think there is a possibility of an agreement here.” (JPA/RVC-PIA9 ZBST)


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DepEd-Caraga boosts teachers skills for K to 12by Jennifer P. Gaitano

As support to the Aquino administration’s Philippine Development Goals 2011-2016, the Department of

Education (DepEd) Caraga is strengthening skills of teachers in the region to cope with the implementation of the K to 12 Basic Education Program. Teachers for the basic education are currently undergoing

simultaneous training on the program’s curriculum, Conchita

Ubay, elementary education chief, said during the 2nd Quarter


Meeting of the Regional Development Council – Social Development Committee (RDC-SDC). “DepEd is holding a mass training for Grade-1 teachers on the implementation of K to 12 Basic Education Program. It starts today up to May 28, 2012. The training is being conducted in different venues spearheaded by the different Division Offices of Caraga Region,” said Ubay. The K to 12 Basic Education Program aims to upgrade the education system in the Philippines to make it competitive with other countries in the world.

In implementing the program, the following phases have been adopted: a) Universal kindergarten was offered starting school year 2011-2012; b) New curriculum for incoming Grade 1 as well as for incoming high school students (Grade

7 of HS Year 1) will be offered starting 2012-2013; and c) Senior High School education will be provided by school year 2016-2017. The key roles in the implementation of the K to 12 Basic Education Program is played by DepEd together with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and TESDA.

The local government units, private sector, government agencies, civil society organizations and other concerned parties are expected to take the challenges on the roll out of the program.


In a statement, DOLE-Caraga regional director Ofelia Domingo said the signing of MOA aims to help prevent tragedies in the workplace by f creating ties between the stakeholders and organization for the welfare and well-being of the workers and their families. The official added the convergence aims to instill awareness among stakeholders and the general public to practice and be vigilant on the occupational safety and health disciplines that are deemed necessary to avoid the same incidents

that happened recently here and in Surigao City that left 24 fatalities, 17 of which died due to the Novo Jeans and Shirts fire tragedy, and the other seven persons died by suffocation under the estimated 25-meter closed for operation mine-pit, all found lacking on safety awareness, discipline and practices as well as lack of protective equipment. Stakeholders who were invited to sign the agreement include the Organization of Safety and Health Network (OSHNET)-Caraga, Occupational Safety

and Health Center (OSHC), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Caraga, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Caraga, Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Caraga, Butuan City government, Chamber of Mines Caraga Region, Inc. and Butuan City and Agusan del Norte Chambers of Commerce and Industry. The event will take place at Luciana Convention Center, this city on May 18, a day before the city’s fiesta in honor of patron saint, St. Joseph the Worker.

DOLE-Caraga to ink MOA with stakeholders, organizations on occupational safety, healthby Danilo S. Makiling

BUTUAN CITY -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Caraga Regional Office is set to convene stakeholders and organizations for the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH).


During her recent visit here to award the scholarship grant amounting to P220,000 in time with the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of OWWA, the official challenged the scholars

to graduate Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, or Summa Cum Laude. “Study hard... inspire each other and the youth around you. Bring honors to your OFW parents. There is no better gift you can ever give to them,

than this,” Dimzon said. Three wives of OFWs were also provided with death and burial assistance which totaled P460,000. “We know no amount of money is equivalent to anybody’s life, but this is only one

OWWA chief to OFW dependent scholars: “Bring honors to your parents”

BUTUAN CITY –- Overseas Workers Welfare Administrator (OWWA) Administrator Carmelita S. Dimzon challenged overseas Filipino workers (OFW) dependent-scholars not only to finish their education but to graduate with honors and exemplary recognition to inspire the youth and bring honor to their parents.

by Ritchel Molero


of the myriad services OWWA is providing you in your state of loss and grief. The cash assistance we are giving you is “little” but we are hopeful that this will help you start and augment your earnings in the near future,” Dimzon stressed. Luciana Cortes, one of the death insurance beneficiaries is thankful for OWWA benefits. Her husband, Albino Cortes, died of Acute Massive Aspiration Syndrome in Papua New Guinea on

Feb. 26, 2012. Moreover, more than 60 Caraganon participants of the Entrepreneurial Development Training

were encouraged by Admin. Dimzon to invest and engage in business emphasizing that being an OFW is not a lifetime job.


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May is Natural Family Planning MonthBy Claro A. Lanipa

The month of May is being celebrated as Natural Family Planning Month pursuant to Department Circular No. 50-A, series of 1995 of the Department of Health (DOH).


The Natural Family Planning program of the government is a health intervention program and an important tool for the improvement of the health and welfare of mothers, children and other members of the family. It also provides information and services for the couples of reproductive age to plan their family according to their beliefs and circumstances through legally and medically acceptable natural family planning methods. The program is anchored on the following principles: Responsible Parenthood which means that each family has the right and duty to determine the desired number of children they might have and when they might have them. And beyond responsible parenthood is Responsible Parenting which is the proper upbringing and education of children so that they grow up to be upright, productive and civic-minded citizens. Respect for Life. The 1987 Constitution states that the government protects the sanctity of life. Abortion is NOT a Family

Planning method. Birth Spacing which refers to interval between pregnancies (ideally 3 years) will enable women to recover their health, improve women’s potential to be more productive and to realize their personal aspirations and allows more time to care for children and spouse/ husband, and; Informed Choice that is upholding and ensuring the rights of couples to determine the number and spacing of their children according to their life’s aspirations and reminding couples that planning size of their families have a direct bearing on the quality of their children’s and their own lives. The objective of the month-long activity is to promote the use of Natural Family Planning through advocacy in close coordination with government agencies, non- government organizations (NGOs), local government units (LGUs), academe, religious and other sectors to reduce the health risks to women and children due to short birth intervals, and too frequent pregnancies and childbirth. (ALT/CAL/PIA9)

Zambo Int’l Airport interior design contest good for investment, tourismZAMBOANGA CITY - Having an attractive and orderly airport can help increase investments and improve tourism, Director Teresita Socorro Ramos, Vice Chair of the Regional Development Council 9 said, during the launching of the Zamboanga International Airport Interior Design Contest on Tuesday, May 15.

By Michael D. Cajulao


Speaking to media, Dir. Ramos said that the contest is a move to improve the airport citing economic development that will result from the project. “Our ports, both air and sea ports, are our doors to those not from here. The look of these can either persuade or discourage investors and tourists from coming back here,” Ramos said. Regional Director May June Bugante of Department of Tourism-9 affirmed Dir. Ramos’ statements on improved tourism in the city. “Tourists immediately notice the airport. This creates an impression of the place. If they have good impression, then it makes them want to come back. This project will really help improve our tourism”, Dir. Bugante stressed. The contest was conceived after the Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) of RDC-9 made

a visit to the airport last year for inspection. The visit made it clear that the improvements made in the airport is still lacking and that further initiatives should be made, thus, the idea of an interior design contest was discussed. Engr. George Ledesma, RPMC-Ad Hoc Committee Chair in charge of the contest, said the need to improve the airport gathered support since the proposed transfer of the airport in the east coast may have to wait for a while due to the lack of funds and vital requirements to justify the transfer. “This contest aims to improve the present airport especially its interior to improve services to the public. We have received a lot of complaints especially in the check-in area. At present, we don’t have any blue print for improvement of our airport. This contest aims to address that issue. We need to have


plan for future improvement of our present airport to make our city more attractive to visitors,” Engr. Ledesma said. “Facilities wise, we know where we are. We still lack some facilities for our airport. What we can do right now is to improve the services for the public that is why we are focusing on four areas of improvement, the check-in, pre-departure, mezzanine and arrival areas,” Ledesma added. Engr. Rodrigo Sicat of the City Planning and Development Office clarified that the plans to improve the present airport does not mean that the transfer of the airport will not be pursued. “The transfer of the airport is still one of the top priorities of the city government. This does not mean that we are abandoning that project. It is part of our long term plans. However, we also need to improve our present airport, as it gives visitors the idea of what Zamboanga City is all about,” Engr. Sicat pointed. As to the budget for the proposed improvement of the airport, Mr. Reynaldo Alforte of the Civil Aviation Authority-Zamboanga International Airport said the contest was already made known to Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP)-Manila. “CAAP-Manila has already committed funds for the improvement of the airport. After the contest, we will be coming up with a proposal for the implementation of the needed improvement,” Alforte said. With the contest officially on,

architects and interior designers in Zamboanga City and the region are all encouraged to participate in the event. Arch. Domingo Abarro III, Dean of Western Mindanao State University-College of Architecture, said the design should focus on the cultural characteristic of the city and the region, most notably, coinciding with the city’s brand name of “Asia’s Latin City.” “The entries should feature Spanish designs, but also integrating other indigenous cultures found here in Zamboanga City and the region. The creativity of designers will be tested here. The challenge is incorporating all that is inherent in Zamboanga City and the region, and making them as one,” Domingo said. For interested participants, registration forms can be secured at CAAP-Zamboanga Int’l Airport. Each contestant should submit a Computer Aided Drafting Design or any computer-generated drawing of floor plans and interior designs, highlighting the four areas mentioned earlier. It should be mounted on a 20” x 30” illustration board. Deadline of submission is on June 28, and a soft copy of the design should also be submitted in a compact disk (CD). Criteria for the contest include creativity and originality (40 percent), presentation (20 percent), relevance to the city/region (30 percent), and passengers’ choice (10 percent). (JPA/MVC/PIA9-ZBST)


Dipolog bats for strict implementation of waste segregation policy

DIPOLOG CITY - The city government through the City General Services Office (CGSO) has again urged the owners of business establishments and residents here to segregate their wastes.

By Franklin P. Gumapon

“No segregation, no collection policy” will be fully implemented in the city starting May 14, according to a public notice issued by the CGSO recently. The city leadership is pushing for the waste segregation program to keep the city spick and span. It can be recalled that the city has for more than a decade been implementing City Ordinance 123, otherwise known

as sanitation ordinance to regulate the maintenance of cleanliness and sanitation in the area. In a related development, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) is presently spearheading cleanup activities in the coastal barangays in support of the ocean month celebration starting May 1-31. (JPA/FPG/PIA9)


Army marks hospital dayby Elaine O. Ratunil Camp Evangelista

Station Hospital (CESH) is

celebrating its hospital day today, where different medical services are being rendered.

Col. Catherine N. Gosingan, Commanding Officer of the CESH, said this is a yearly activity of the army’s 4th Infantry Division, conducted every May where beneficiaries are the soldiers, their dependents and those within the vicinity of Barangay Patag, this city. Emphasizing “Health is Wealth,” this activity was supported in by the whole staff and employees of CESH, Rural Health Unit of Patag and the

City Veterinarian

Office. The following services are being rendered:

circumcision; immunization for infants; feeding program for children with third degree malnutrition; digital


rectal examination for males aged 40 years old and above; laboratory examination (fasting blood sugar screening and blood typing); anti-rabies vaccination for dogs; body

mass index determination; minor surgery and tooth extraction. An awarding ceremony is also being held for Private First Class Jose Pepe Saclapos, who was wounded in action during an encounter on May 13, at Salay, Misamis Oriental. His award will be given by MGen. Victor A. Felix at the Station Hospital for his gallantry in action during the said encounter. MGen. Felix said this

hospital day is for the soldiers, their families, and most especially to their children. (Major Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV/4ID)

OWWA-10 releases assistance to dependents of deceased OFWsby Apipa P. Bagumbaran

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Dependents of deceased overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) received livelihood financial assistance from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in Northern Mindanao (OWWA-10).

The checks were personally handed by OWWA-10 Director Petrona Bergado and Atty. Johnson Cañete, regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment during the OWWA-10 anniversary program last May 8. Three surviving dependents received P15,000 assistance each, which they could use to start-

up a sari-sari store or other small business in their locality. Recipients were Lorenza Moring of Balingasag, Misamis Oriental; Masbod Sabdullah of Iligan City; and Estela Cababaros of Barangay Macabalang, this city. The assistance is in line with the Education and Livelihood Assistance Program of the OWWA, which is intended to help the surviving


dependents of deceased OFWs in their livelihood undertakings. The other beneficiary of the program was John Arvin Nagac, who received P8,000 educational assistance for the school year 2011-2012. Loreta Manango of Valencia City in Bukidnon, on the other hand, received the P100,000 social benefit assistance, after the death of her husband Enrique Manango in Papua New Guinea. Under the social benefit assistance, the OWWA will release P100,000 benefits in case the death was due to natural causes or P200,000 in case it is due to accidents. On top of this, a rider of P 20,000 burial assistance will also be received by the surviving dependents. During the program, OWWA-

10, in partnership with the Land Bank of the Philippines, also released checks worth P2.3 million to three beneficiaries who were former OFWs. Antonio Superable of Barangay Balulang received P1 million loan assistance for his motor parts and accessories business, Taher Wahab of Barangay Camaaman-an also received P1 million for his water refilling station, and the remaining P300,000 was released to Mary Glenda Carlos for her hardware and construction supplies business. Meanwhile, Director Cañete appealed to the beneficiaries to take care of the resources given to them. He said the assistance will help augment their existing conditions and later on will be the source of employment in their respective areas.


Production of crops, fruits and vegies in NorMin, up 44.70% in 2011by Rutchie C. Aguhob

OZAMIZ CITY,Misamis Occidental - A combined production of 8,774,530 metric tons (MT) of industrial, non-food root crops, fruits and vegetables was recorded in Northern Mindanao, last year, higher by 44.70 percent compared to 6,063,790MT in 2010.

As reported by the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS), region 10, the industrial and non-food crops posted the biggest increase from 2,602,899MT to 5,127,972MT or 97.01 percent. In turn, among the industrial crops, sugarcane posted the biggest increase, from 2,549,197MT to 5,068,828MT or 98.84 percent, followed by the palm fruit, 18.74 percent, rubber, 5.09 percent, “tuba,” or coconut wine, 4.11 percent and abaca, 3.22 percent. However, production of cashew, cacao and coffee declined by 35.80 percent, 28.49 percent and 1.65 percent, respectively, Engr. Carlito Baclayon, Regional Statistics Officer of BAS-10, said. Likewise, production of root crops also increased from 509,348MT or 590,935MT or 16.02 percent, with cassava posting the biggest increase of 16.68 percent, followed by ginger, 6.74 percent and camote, 6.07 percent, except for peanuts which declined by 5.45 percent. Baclayon said the production of fruit crops also went up, from 2,846,915MT to 2,948,037MT or 3.55 percent, with pineapple and bananas posting increases of 8.63 percent and 1.37 percent, respectively. The rest of the fruit crops, however,

posted negative production: lanzones, down by 77.57 percent, mangosteen, down by 62.66 percent, papaya, down by 27.53 percent, and rambutan, down by 27.21 percent. Also with negative production were: mandarin, down by 24.34 percent, watermelon, down by 9.0 percent, durian, down by 7.90 percent, mango, down by 5.52 percent, and calamansi, down by 0.67 percent. Meanwhile, production of vegetables increased from 104,629MT to 107,585MT or 2.83 percent, with broccoli posting the biggest increase of 15.54 percent, followed by ampalaya, 8.23 percent, eggplant, 8.12 percent, cauliflower, 8.09 percent and pechay, 7.48 percent. The following vegetables also posted increases in production: okra, 6.59 percent, squash, 6.46 percent, gabi, 6.21 percent, stringbeans, 5.39 percent, pepper, 5.37 percent, lettuce, 3.36 percent, habichuelas, 2.92 percent, tomato, 1.23 percent, gourd, 0.42 percent, and cabbage, 0.28 percent. However, negative production was noted on asparagus, down by 60 percent, carrots, down by 1.85 percent, and irish potato, down by 1.82 percent.

one mindanao - may 17, 2012

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