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Children tackle sexual, reproductive issues in storybooks

Military honors President Aquino With testimonial parade and review

Senator Villar bares smugglers use ‘cold stores’ in illicit trade

Sec. Soliman receives Outstanding Professional Award from PRC

Local Government Secretary Sarmiento pushes for “scaling up” of efforts in building resilient LGUs

DICT exec cites competent talent needed in BPO industry

Camiguin celebrates annual water festival

OCD 12 hails shake drill participants

DAR-assisted farmers gain P2.2-M from selling coffee beans

Food and Drug Admin to strengthen LGU partnership, improve processes

DENR holds tree planting on Arbor Day

DOLE shores up alliance with stakeholders in tourism zone

PRO-9 lauded for attaining PGS compliance stage

Lumad evacuees return home to Lagonglong town

Released Filipina hostage presented to Duterte

Incoming PCOO chief to strengthen presence of government media nationwide

DICT launches Tech4ED centers in Ipil town

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NationalNews

MindanaoRound Up

OLIVIA T. SUDARIAREGIONAL DIRECTORPIA SOCCSKSARGEN

According to the 2013 National Demographic and Health Survey, one in every ten Filipino girls aged 15 to 19 begin childbearing. Also in the same year, the Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS) revealed that the incidence of teenage pregnancy has leaped from merely 6.3 percent in 2002 to 13.6 percent in 2013.

It is for this reason that Save the Children, an international organization that promotes the welfare and protection of children, undertakes programs projects that improve knowledge of adolescents on the sexual and reproductive health issues such as teen pregnancy, gender-based violence, and early marriage.

Just recently, Save the Children South Central Mindanao Program embarked on a project Teens Writing for Teens on Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (TW4T-ASRH) Story Writing Contest that resulted in the production of 16 storybooks -- all authored and illustrated by children.

What is outstanding in this initiative is the fact that the stories were written by teenagers -- including indigenous peoples and Maguindanaons -- which could most likely translate to better credibility among their fellow adolescents; thus, greater acceptance of the information highlighted in each story.

For this laudable effort, Save the Children, along with its partner the United Nations Population Fund, and the people behind the TW4T-ASRH project deserve a salute.

OLIVIA T. SUDARIAREGIONAL DIRECTORPIA SOCCSKSARGEN

PHILIPPINE INFORMATION AGENCYSOCCSKSARGEN (Region XII)Baustista Bldg., Zulueta Street, Koronadal City, South CotabatoContact no. (083)520-0249

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Children tackle sexual, reproductive issues in storybooksKORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – In her storybook entitled “Buhay Kinse ng Batang IP” 15-year old Abigail Paralejas of Maitum, Sarangani province narrates the story of Vanessa Tiba, a 15-year old lumad girl, who was forced into an arranged marriage and at a young age had to contend with problems on pregnancy, motherhood and discrimination as she –along with her also teenaged husband Jericho -- struggled to finish high school and college.

Meanwhile, Norodin Dalaten Jr., a student of the Lutayan National High School in Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat province in his book “Vea Mother? Majorette?” tells the story of third year high school student Vea who became pregnant with boyfriend Mark, also a high school student. Vea was forced out of their home and later suffered miscarriage. Despite the experience, she continued her studies and finished it.

Paralejas’ and Dalaten’s books are only two of the 16 winning storybooks that the children’s

welfare nongovernment organization Save the Children and the United Nations Population Fund

(UNFPA) launched in General Santos City on June 20.

Said books were written and illustrated by 10 to 18-year old children from Sarangani, Sultan

Kudarat and North Cotabato under the Save the Children’s Teens Writing for

Teens Project on Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (TW4T-ASRH) Story Writing Contest that kicked off in November, 2015.

“Being teenager in a community where about 90 percent of the residents are indigenous people, I know of a number of IP teenagers who were arranged to be wed,” Paralejas said.

Dalaten, a M a g u i n d a n a o n , disclosed that his story was based on an experience of a fellow student.

“Teenage pregnancy occurs in our school and

in our community,” he noted Mario Vargas, OIC program manager of Save

the Children South Central Mindanao said: “The project aims

to contribute to the Philippine Government’s Adolescent Youth and Development Program’s overall goal of addressing ASRH issues, specifically the prevention of teen pregnancies, gender-based violence and early marriages.” Same 16 books, along with 14 other titles authored by children in Save the Children sponsored areas Quezon City were launched in a national event at The Elements Centris in Quezon City on June 22.

“What’s unique about the books from Mindanao is that up until this time, no book has been written that tackle adolescent sexual and reproductive health issues involving IP teenagers,” said Anna Marie Mejicano, who headed the project implementation for Save the Children South Central Mindanao Program. A number of the child authors and illustrations are Blaan and Maguindanaon.

“By producing these books, Save the Children intends to intends to increase access of adolescent boys to information regarding adolescent sexual and reproductive health,” Cathy Manzano, project coordinator for TW4T, explained.

“Copies of these books will be distributed to partner schools as well as schools and institutions in Save the Children-sponsored areas. We are also looking forward to popularizing these books through different means such as production of plays,” Manzano added. (DEDoguiles)

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Led by Acting Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda, the AFP expressed its gratitude to President Aquino for his leadership and for supporting the implementation of the modernization program that improved the capability of the military. Also present were service commanders Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año of the Philippine Army, Vice Admiral Cesar Taccad of the Philippine Navy, Lt. Gen. Edgar Faliorina of the Philippine

Air Force, and former chiefs of staff, officers and non-commissioned personnel of the AFP. In his speech, President Aquino thanked the AFP for its dedication to ensure the safety of the Filipino people. President Aquino said the government spent P65.89 billion for the AFP’s Modernization Program. During the ceremony, President Aquino was presented the AFP Coat of Arms plaque and the Presidential Saber.

Military honors President AquinoWith testimonial parade and review

The Armed Forces of the Philippines

(AFP) on Monday (June 27) paid tribute to outgoing Commander-in-Chief and President Benigno S. Aquino III during a testimonial parade and review held in his honor at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

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President Aquino also handed out the Presidential Legion of Honor awards to Lt. Gen. Miranda (with rank of commander) for his service as AFP Acting Chief of Staff, and Presidential Security Group (PSG) head Rear Admiral Raul Ubando (with the rank of officer) for his service during the 2015 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit. Rear Admiral Ubando also received the Presidential Medal of Merit as former Senior

Military Assistant (SMA) to President Aquino and as PSG commander. The other recipients of the Presidential Medal of Merit were Brig. Gen. Jose Caparas (SMA to the President); Lt. Col. Justino Ramolete, Maj. James Erasmus, and Lt. Bryner Las (Junior Military Aide de Camp to the President); and Maj. Xavier Celestial for composing the Presidential March. The Presidential Unit Streamer with Ribbon was presented to the 32nd Infantry Batallion (32IB),

1st Infantry Division (1ID) of the Philippine Army for extraordinary accomplishment during the siege by rogue members of the Moro National Liberation Front in September 2013 in Zamboanga City. The award was received by LTC Ramon Flores, commander of the 32IB, 1ID. The President was assisted by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin during the presentation of awards. (PCOO)

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Senator Villar bares smugglersuse ‘cold stores’ in illicit tradeSenator Cynthia A. Villar bared that smugglers are using ‘cold stores’ in their illicit trade as she called on the Cold Chain Association of the Philippines (CCAP) “to police their own ranks.” While going around the country to inquire on agricultural smuggling, Villar said they found out that smugglers were paying cold stores in the provinces to reject for storage the crops or harvest of farmers or farmers’ groups and cooperatives. “Once local produce were rotten, the imported ones, including those smuggled, would be saleable,” she said. Villar said they earlier got reports about this nefarious practice of smugglers that adversely affected our farmers and the agriculture sector. She said they found out the cold stores were empty although they were earlier informed they’re full. “I pointed this out because I do not want CCAP and its members to be dragged in the smuggling issue,” said Villar. “I know that like any legitimate and upstanding organizations, you can police your ranks. You also represent their individual and collective interests in

policymaking, standards-setting and industry development,” further stated Villar. She also acknowledged that the concerted efforts of the two industries– agriculture and cold chain companies will surely result to more business and economic gains.” Speaking during the 14th annual general membership meeting and training conference of CCAP, Villar lauded the importance of the services provided by cold chain companies to the agriculture sector. “I cannot overemphasize that your role in the supply, storage and distribution of both chilled and/or frozen food products is very crucial,” she said. Villar said CCAP also aims to achieve effective handling, storage and distribution of products with the consumer in mind. “Let us continue to dialogue and form linkages since we have a common goal of ensuring food security in the country. To

achieve that goal, all of us should be stakeholders. On the matter of food security, we should be helping each other. With our concerted efforts and coordinated actions, nothing is impossible,” said Villar. She likewise said agricultural stakeholders are upbeat the industry will receive the much-needed boost under the Duterte administration with Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol as agriculture secretary. (Senate)

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The Outstanding Professional of the Year Award is given by PRC annually since 1997, to recognize the achievements and services of professionals in their respective fields of endeavor. During the awarding ceremony held at the Manila Hotel, Sec. Soliman was also conferred the Eric Nubla Excellence Award, besting other Outstanding Professional Awardees this

year. The Nubla Award is given to a single professional who embodies the values of professionalism, integrity, responsibility, competence and excellence that PRC stands for. Sec. Soliman was honored for her commitment, dedication and exemplary service as DSWD secretary from 2001 to 2005, and 2010 to 2016.

“I am grateful for these recognitions which PRC bestowed on me. I shall treasure as I step down as DSWD Secretary,” Sec. Soliman shared. She added, “Though I am leaving the Department, I will always be always be social worker and will continue to work towards the empowerment of the poor and vulnerable sectors of society.” (DSWD)

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman was recognized as the Outstanding Professional of the Year Award (Outstanding Social Worker) by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC), in acknowledgement of her life work in the social work field.

Sec. Soliman receives OutstandingProfessional Award from PRC

Sarmiento said that among important efforts that should be made are the retrofitting of bridges in support of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH); utilization of the Geographic Information System to simulate if a structure is on top of a faultline; and stricter enforcement of compliance to the new Building Code. “We should move forward and scale up our kind of thinking na sana pagdating ng panahon, we can be as prepared to deal (with disasters) as Japan. What is a supertyphoon for them is a disaster for us because of the way we build our houses. We have to accept and adapt to the fact na ang lugar natin ay bagyuhin,” he said. Sarmiento was one of the guest officials who formally opened the 2nd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) with the Ceremonial Button Pressing at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City last June 22, 2016. He convened with other officials in the NDRRMC and CSO representatives for a briefer and press conference. He

shared about the disaster response and risk reduction (DRRM) initiatives of the Department that serves as co-chair in the Council, emphasizing the need for an “orchestrated response” to disaster risk and reduction (DRRM) on the local scale. The Secretary mentioned DILG’s Oplan HANDA or Handa sa Aksidente at Disaster, a program at the household level that introduces each household member to the hazards that will affect them, and provides them with a step-by-step plan to act on these hazards; the Department’s talks with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to encourage State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) to put up their own respective DRR institutes where Local Chief Executives (LCEs) may undergo training; and the facilitation of visits to NDRRMC command center, where the LCEs could keep updated and also learn from each others’ experiences. “Every year nag-iimprove po tayo, at nag-iinvest din ang gobyerno sa mga kagamitan na kailangan natin,” Sarmiento said, citing the acquisition of

four more C130 helicopters to add to the lone unit that was used during Supertyphoon Yolanda; a brand new C295 aircraft; and the newly arrived BRP Tarlac, the country’s first strategic sealift vessel, which can hold equipment and supplies during a time of calamity and act also as makeshift floating hospital for Department of Health (DOH) staff and volunteers in case of damage to hospital structures. The DILG numbered among the many attendees from the member agencies of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC); representatives from neighboring ASEAN countries; civil society organizations (CSOs); and the media in what proved to be a smooth, efficient, well-executed event of the NSED that morning. The earthquake drill meant to simulate a scenario in which a Magnitude 7.2 earthquake occurred along the West Valley Fault–the worst case scenario that could happen for Metro Manila and nearby provinces. (DILG)

Local Government Secretary Sarmiento pushes for “scaling up” of efforts in building resilient LGUsSecretary Mel Senen Sarmiento of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has underscored the need to ‘scale up’ not only in disaster preparedness, but also in building the resilience of communities.

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DICT exec cites competent talent needed in BPO industry CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – An official from the Department of Information Communication Technology (DICT) cited during the launching of the ICT Skills Training and Internship Center in Cagayan de Oro on June 23 that among the challenges in the Information Technology – Business Process Outsourcing (IT-BPO) sector is the availability of competent talent.

Deputy Executive Director Monchito B. Ibrahim, eInnovation Group of DICT explained “there are many jobs unfilled because we lack people who have the skill.” Ibrahim said that Cagayan de Oro is becoming one of the IT-BPO hubs in the country and among the top 10 next wave cities. This means that the city is open for business and has the qualified people to work in the industry. He added that the BPO sector does not just comprise call centers but also include financial accounting, legal and health transcription, and virtual assistance, among others. “The IT-BPO sector contributes 9 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country,” he said.

M e a n w h i l e , Mindanao Cluster II Director Evamay Dela Rosa shared that it’s not enough to provide trainings alone but connect our trainees to entities who are looking for workers. That way, we will not only be able to address the need of the trainee for employment, but also the need of business entities in finding employees that matches the skills required. She added that in the BPO sector, according to IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), the hiring rate is only around 5-10 percent. This means, of the 100 applicants, only around 5-10 percent are hired citing communication skills as one of the factors. There are around 500 thousand jobs available online waiting for takers. Dela Rosa explained that

if residents here qualify for these online jobs, they no longer need to go to faraway big cities to leave their families for work. This will not just benefit the families but the local economy as well, she said. Further, the center already has the 1st batch of trainees to begin 4 July 2016. She said the training is free; trainees must only complete the modules and be serious about it. Aside from the trainings, Dela Rosa said, the center can also cater to individuals who need to do government transactions online such as online application for NBI clearance among others. The center is complete with 20 computers sponsored by the Filipino and Chinese Love and Care Foundation through the help of Asus Technology Philippines.

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Dela Rosa also said that this is in partnership with RIS Philippines. For his part, Cagayan de Oro Mayor Oscar Moreno lauded the launching of the center. He said this will provide

more opportunities for employment in the city. However, he reminded regulatory bodies to safeguard online transactions so that no one will be taken advantage of.

For interested applicants (group or individual), please visit the DICT office at Toribio Chavez St., Cagayan de Oro City or call them at (088) 880-1761. (Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat)

Released Filipina hostage presented to DuterteDAVAO CITY – Marites Flor, the Filipina who was taken hostage by the Abu Sayaff in Samal Island was released by the Abu Sayaff dawn of June 24.

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Flor was later presented to incoming President Rodrigo Duterte at the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) headquarters in Davao City later that day. “They treated us like dogs, like kids. They beat us up, when we make mistakes,” Flor recounted her ordeal during the captivity. Flor alongside her Canadian partner Robert Hall, fellow Canadian John Ridsel and Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad were taken at gunpoint in a resort in Samal Island,

Davao del Norte in the night of Sept. 21, 2015. Ridsel and Hall were later beheaded by the Abu Sayaff after they failed to give ransom within the specified deadline. Flor was awakened from her sleep and taken to the residence of Sulu Governor Sakur Tan. I n c o m i n g Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said no ransom was paid for her release. Dureza fetched Flor from Zamboanga. The incoming President said that the

kidnapping must stop. “I don’t want to quarrel with anybody but there will be a time, I do not want to say, that I will have to confront Abu Sayaff,” Duterte said. The incoming President was at the DCPO headquarters to witness the turn-over of command of the Davao City Police Office leadership. Police Senior Superintendent Michael John Dubria took over as Davao City police chief from Senior Superintendent Vicente Danao. (RG Alama)

OCD 12 hails shake drill participantsGENERAL SANTOS CITY - The Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) 12 hailed participants to the 2nd quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED), describing them cooperative and receptive. At 9 a.m. on Wednesday (June 22), more than 4,000 students, faculty members and staff from Lagao National High School joined the nationwide earthquake drill doing their duck, cover, and hold as tremors hit them. Some students also served as members of the medical team, giving first aid to the victims. The school served as pilot site for the regional shake drill, which lasted about 30 minutes while GHQ Grandstand,

Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City was the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council or NDRRMC’s operations center. OCD-12 Regional Director Minda Morante, Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC)-12 chairperson, said the activity was another feat toward making sure that the country’s disaster preparedness in on track. She said the drill

“aims to educate people on the importance of preparedness against earthquake hazards.” Earlier, Morante said that people are more vigilant nowadays than they were years ago due to the fact that the country had been hit by huge disasters- the like of Yolanda, Pablo, Sendong- that resulted in the loss of many lives and properties. People learn from those harrowing experiences, she said, adding that “we don’t want another Yolanda”

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that will paralyze an entire province or city. This is the reason why, she said the NDRRMC through the OCD conducted the drills and is holding this quarterly “to gauge how far have we gone in terms of disaster preparedness and how fast can we respond during disaster occurrence.” Director Morante also cited that the exercise can help stakeholders determine which area to improve and where or what to focus on more. Aside from commending everyone

who joined the activity, from government offices to private organizations to individuals, Morante also thanked DRRM partners who acted as drill evaluators, namely: PNP-RMU XII, BFP-Gensan, JTF-Gensan, GSCPSC, CDRRMO Gensan, and DepEd-Gensan. Asked about the drill, City DRRM officer Dr. Agripino Dacera said the conduct of the drill was smooth only that the school’s evacuation site “lack space” as it becomes easily congested. As of June 24, OCD-

12 noted in its partial report 82,710 individuals from different schools, private and government offices from all over SOCCSKSARGEN joined the nationwide drill. It said the number still keeps coming. It also encourages all government and private organizations and individuals to share their photos and videos doing the duck, cover, and hold at social media using the official hashtag for this year’s NSED #Pagyanig. (CT Apelacio)

The MOA signing, which was held recently at Casa Mea Hotel here, was attended by eSociety Deputy Executive Director Beatrice Quimson, Ma. Teresa Camba, DICT regional director for Mindanao cluster 1, Mayor Eldwin Alibutdan, Councilor Ramses Olegario, representing Vice Mayor Anamel Olegario, and 55 barangay employees who will serve

as center managers. Center manager also underwent a two day training to equip them with knowledge and skills in running the centers. The Tech4ED Project is an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology-Information and Communication Technology Office (DOST-ICTO) eSociety division aimed at bridging the digital gap by improving

access to ICT and digital opportunities for the underserved areas in the country and vulnerable sectors such as out-of-school youth, entrepreneurs, persons with disability and senior citizens. Tech4ED segments include eEduSkills, which delivers e-learning on demand; eAssist, which offers content on digital literacy, financial

DICT launches Tech4ED centers in Ipil townIpil, Zamboanga Sibugay – Twenty nine Tech4ED centers will soon be put up in the 28 barangays here and one in the municipality after the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT)-9 inked a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the local government unit of Ipil to effect the implementation of said centers.

The San Juan sa Hibok-hibok Festival 2016 kicked-off on June 23 with sports event at the Lagundi Beach in Mambajao town. A fluvial procession highlighted the festivity—locals splashed colorful decorations on their pump boats as they go around the coast for the religious ritual.

Camiguin celebrates annual water festivalMAMBAJAO, Camiguin – The island-province of Camiguin celebrated anew one of the biggest and oldest tradition where people gather for picnic and games at the beach in honor to the feast of St. John the Baptist held every 24th of June.

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literacy, and ICT for career development and entrepreneurs; and eGovServ, which provides convenient access to online government services. “The Tech4ED platform does not only provide access to technology and information. It also contains various content catering to the needs of people from all walks of life like the Persons with Disability (PWD), job seekers, students, educators and many

more,” said Dir. Maria Teresa Camba. DED Bettina Quimson explained “Tech4ED project aims to provide equal opportunities, especially to those who lack access to technology and information. The project contains different services which cater to the needs of different audiences. It aims to integrate an employment portal which will help people assess the best jobs suited for their qualifications, skills and experiences.”

For his part, Mayor Alibutdan said: “This project is the right tool to capacitate Ipilenos in far-flung barangays in order to address poverty in our town and province.Ipil is the first municipality in Mindanao Cluster 1 to implement the project in all of its barangays. Mindanao cluster 1 is composed of Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi. (Rhea Grace A. La Plana)

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in the province that everybody partakes, locals await year after year, leaving almost every shore occupied with families enjoying the water and food they bring along for family and friends. One of the biggest crowd is in Mambajao as the local government units and national line agencies pool together in one area to witness the games, water sports competition, search for Mr. & Ms Hibok-hibokan, later capped with a shower party. (Jorie C. Valcorza)

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Incoming PCOO chief to strengthen presence of government media nationwideDAVAO CITY - Incoming Presidential Communications Operation Office Secretary Martin Andanar has mulled over strengthening the presence of government media nationwide, starting in Davao City being the broadcast hub of Mindanao.

He said the first task for him is to complete the composition of the office of the PCOO in Davao City. Andanar said that next in line is Cebu City while Manila comes third since the PCOO office in Manila is existing already. “The challenge now is to put in good people in Davao which will be led by incoming Assistant Secretary Bam Garcia,” he said. Andanar clarified that coming up with a broadcast system for

Davao City remains a part in their wish-list since they haven’t talked about investments yet. He said the aim is to come up with highly-competitive radio and television broadcast station for Davao City. “It is a plan that I still need to bring to the Cabinet and the President who has the power to decide on how fast we can build the broadcast system,” Andanar said. He also thought of rationalizing the

operation of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and the Philippine News Agency (PNA) to improve their efficiency. “For example in the rental, both PIA and PNA are renting separate buildings and pay separate water and electricity bills. It is very expensive,” Andanar said. He said it can be best if the two offices are situated in one building with the corresponding broadcast facility there. (Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

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DAR-assisted farmers gain P2.2-M from selling coffee beansBAGUMBAYAN, Sultan Kudarat - About 86 trained farmers from this town delivered and collectively sold coffee produce to a multinational coffee-buying company in Tagum City, gaining an income of over P2.2 million.

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The collective selling of the coffee beans dubbed “test marketing” was organized by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in partnership with the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) to eliminate local traders in the marketing chain, according to DAR officials. Zeljik Psalm Maraon, DAR-CRS facilitator, said the participating farmers come from the DAR-CRS assisted associations of KM14 High Value Crops, Masiag Farmers and Coffee Growers, Monterverde Coffee Growers and Kanulay P4MP Association. Maraon added that the net weight of the coffee beans reached 28,689.33 kilos. “The farmers earned a gross income of P2,215,360.13 as a result of directly selling their consolidated coffee produce to Nestle Philippines,” he said. He added that crucial to gaining more income were the incentives given by the company to the coffee farmers upon delivery of their coffee produce. “Nestle gave an incentive of additional P1.50 per kilo to the

total kilograms of coffee beans delivered, and an additional P1 for every kilo of coffee beans passing the company’s moisture content test,” Maraon added. However, he said that most of the coffee beans delivered failed to meet the highest quality standard for coffee products, thus lowering their opportunity for a higher income. “Only 3,259.48 kilos or about 11.36 percent of the total delivery met the quality standard of grade 1, which has the highest buying price of P76.50 per kilo,” he said. “About 25,370.54 kilograms or 88.43 percent were classified under grade 2 which has an equivalent buying price of P74.50 a kilo, while about 59.31 kilos or 0.21 percent of coffee beans delivered were classified under grade 3 which has a buying price of P72.50 per kilo,” Maraon added. According to Rhea Marie Betque, chief agrarian reform program officer (CARPO) for Program Beneficiaries Development Division, the test marketing achieved the immediate goal, which DAR- CRS

aimed to attain under the Linking Smallholder Farmers to Market (LinkSFarM) project. She added that LinkSFarm aimed to increase the competitiveness of farmers’ products and open them to more opportunities in adding value to their produce. “By eliminating the local traders in the market chain, coffee farmers gained incentives as an added value to their produce thus increasing their income,” Betque said. She added that the incentive given by the buying company is enough to defray hauling costs of coffee beans from Bagumbayan town to Tagum City. Meanwhile, during the post-delivery assessment, the farmers agreed to aim for a grade 1 quality for their coffee produce. The group also resolved to improve their practices in harvesting as well as in performing proper sorting, drying and floatation of coffee beans. (JJDael-DAR-SK/ACAgad-PIA 12)

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Chief Supt. Eduardo Serapio M. Garado, deputy director for Directorate for Plans and chairman of the technical working group on PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030 commended the Police Regional Office (PRO9) for the conferment of the PGS compliance stage award on the PNP units during the awarding ceremony last June 21 at the PRO-9 office, Camp Col. Romeo Abendan, Barangay Mercedes here. The PGS is a process that assesses the overall performance of the Philippine National Police (PNP) units across the country based on their accomplishments of their target through the implementation of strategic initiatives.

Garado, the event’s keynote speaker, congratulated the unit commanders who received their PGS compliant status certificates especially the four units who got the silver eagle awards, namely, the Zamboanga City Police Office, Regional Public Safety Battalion, Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office, and Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office. He also expressed his gratitude to the members of validation team who painstakingly conducted the performance audit and the multi-sectoral panel members of advisory council who conducted the revalida. Garado said that the PRO9 has a functional scorecard that facilitates the effective

PRO-9 lauded for attaining PGS compliance stageZAMBOANGA CITY – The Philippine National Police (PNP) units in the region have received accolade from a police official after they hurdled the compliance stage of the Performance Governance System (PGS).

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monitoring attained by the PNP units through their identified and validated accomplishments. The awarding and conferment ceremony, Garado said, “is meaningful saying that it recognized the remarkable accomplishments of the PNP units based on the PNP PATROL Plan 2030.” “ Y o u r accomplishment against wanted persons, illegal drugs, loose firearms, illegal logging, illegal fishing, illegal gambling, and among others has improved,” Garado pointed

out. “It also shows that good governance and genuine peace is being attained in region 9 as highlighted by your crime statistics from January to June this year,” he added. The PNP official said their accomplishments were complemented by the sustained partnership and collaboration with their partners especially the local government units and other stakeholders. “Your continuous engagement with them is worthy and would definitely bring back the

trust and confidence with the community by soliciting their support and assistance,” the official stressed. Garado said PNP chief Police Direcctor Ricardo Marquez commended the awardees for their utmost dedication adding that their accomplishments is leading the PNP to be closer in the attainment of their vision of becomingly highly capable, effective and credible police service by 2030. (Gideon C. Corgue)

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In her message, Dr. Rosette Vergaire, FDA OIC-deputy director-general said some reforms would be made in the FDA, and among these is the launch of the Unified Licensing Requirements and Procedures. According to Vergaire this is a big step that will cut down the time spent for processing the licensing of a product and it also reduces the number of requirements for products to be approved by the FDA. Products to be licensed by the FDA include processed food, drugs, cosmetics and medical devices. “The streamlined processes will help businesses grow,” Vergaire said, adding, “among the streamlining initiatives is the use of Electronic Portal

application process. The objective of the unified licensing requirements is to help ensure the availability and accessibility of quality and safe health products in the market. The FDA is also seeking to strengthen local government partnership, as Vergaire said “it cannot possibly cover MSMEs (micro, small, medium scale enterprises).” With involvement of the local government, FDA can help MSMEs in complying with the requirements set by the office. Vergaire said she did not want the FDA to be just known as strict enforcers of the law but also as partners of the MSMEs in their businesses.

“We don’t want them to hide when we come, but we want them to welcome us as partners who will help them in complying with the requirements,” she said. As part of the initiative, the 53rd anniversary in Davao City is part of the office’s “Provincial Visits” which aims to bring the services of the FDA closer to the people. The ceremony was graced by personnel from the FDA, partner agencies and representatives from the local government unit led by Councilor Rachelle Zozobrado, who represented City Mayor now President-elect Rodrigo Duterte, Councilor Marissa Abella and Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre. (RG Alama)

Food and Drug Admin to strengthen LGU partnership, improve processes

DAVAO CITY - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) celebrated its 53rd anniversary with a program in Davao City held today (June 24) at the Sangguniang Panglungsod.

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Temporarily sheltered at the capitol ground of Misamis Oriental, the displaced residents left their homes due to the presence of the government troops and waited for a dialogue with the military. They demanded a written deal that the government troops will no longer stay in their communities during operations. The evacuees decided

to go back home to their homes after their meeting with military officials went smoothly on June 23. While inside the capitol compound, the evacuees were provided by the provincial government of Misamis Oriental with basic necessities such as food, medicines. Considered as their last supper while in the premises, the capitol also

provided with a meal from a fastfood chain as a gastronomic treat to them as visitors of the provincial government. Evacuees, did not went home empty handed as the provincial government sent along with them food packs containing rice, canned goods, including corn and vegetables seeds. The evacuees left their homes on June 5 and took

Lumad evacuees return home to Lagonglong townCAPITOL COMPOUND, Misamis Oriental – Lumad evacuees from a mountainous village in Lagonglong town, Misamis Oriental are now home since 24 June 24, 2016.

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shelter at the Lagonglong municipal gymnasium after the troops from the 58th Infantry Battalion entered the community. A few days ago, they had relocated to the provincial capitol grounds. During the dialogue facilitated by Governor Yevgeny Vincente Emano at the capitol training center, the evacuees, belonging to the Higaonon tribe, had asked the military to pull out their troops and refrain from setting up a detachment in sitios Camansi and Tapol in Barangay Banglay. Colonel Jesse Alvarez, commanding officer of the army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade, said they are teaching soldiers to be culturally sensitive and about human rights. Alvarez also encouraged the villagers to file a complaint in case of abuses so as to give justice to their complaint. He said they need details of the complaint so they can investigate. He also said the residents should not think that all soldiers are abusive.

“We welcome talks with the residents and we are talking here about peace,” said Alvarez. Further, he said the military has a purpose in going to far-flung places such as Banglay to secure the area as part of the peace and development efforts, and not purely to neutralize the NPA rebels. Alvarez, meanwhile, said they have to refer the demands of the evacuees to the army higher command for consideration. For his part, Lt Col Francis Carandang, commanding officer of the 58th IB, said they are willing to withdraw from the civilian population if there is no more reported presence of the NPA in the area. Fourth Infantry Division spokesperson Capt Joe Patrick Martinez said two soldiers had been reprimanded publicly last year, and were meted out with some restrictions as their penalty. During the reprimand period, they have to go back to the training.

He also said they are not there to kill or to look for trouble. Many of our soldiers had sacrificed their lives to win peace, said Martinez. He said the military are very serious in alleviating the plights of the community. Martinez also said that soldiers were camped about a kilometer away from the villages and do not hamper the movement of the villagers. After all the sides have been heard, Nenita Helogon, secretary general of the Tagtabolon, announced they will return to their community so their children can attend classes and tend their abandoned crops. It was agreed that the military can set up camp in the village, but that it should be a distance away from the residential area. The provincial government provided for the needs of the evacuees in returning home, including transportation. (Elaine O. Ratunil)

Maribel Acama, information officer of DENR-PENRO Zamboanga del Norte, said that PENRO Salahuddin Kaing led the planting of 150 seedlings of narra, mahogany and nigella ornamental trees at Minaog as an advance celebration of Philippine Arbor Day, which is being celebrated every June 25. Acama said similar activities were also simultaneously conducted by other Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices (CENROs) in the Zamboanga del Norte within their respective area

of jurisdiction. Under Presidential Proclamation No.634 series of 2004, Philippine Arbor Day is observed annually every June 25. However, President Benigno Aquino S. Aquino III amended said proclamation and issued Proclamation No. 10176 reviving Arbor Day and mandated all local government units to put up their own nurseries and plant trees anytime of the year depending on the availability of planting materials and suitability of areas to be planted. RA 10176 further requires all able-bodied Filipino, 12 years old and

above to plant a tree every year. To ensure greater survival percentage on the planted seedlings, DENR-PENRO urged the barangay councils to pass a resolution for the protection of the trees from the animals. Kaing appealed to the municipal and barangay officials of the areas where they planted assorted species of forest, fruit and ornamental trees to help in protecting them from animals and any other form abuses. (Alfonso T. Ruda)

DENR holds tree planting on Arbor DayDIPOLOG CITY - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office(DENR-PENRO) has spearheaded a tree planting activity on Friday, June 24, along the roadside at Barangay Minaog this city.

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Just recently, the Regional Coordinating Council of the DOLE 12 oriented resort and restaurant owners, local government officials and other stakeholders in Lake Sebu on the programs and services that DOLE and its attached agencies provide to its clients. OIC Regional Director Albert Gutib said the initiative assists the tourism zone, particularly in line with the capacity-building of resort employees and employers and their customers. “With the cooperation of our employers good relations will be achieved. Thus, there will be improved productivity and economy,” Gutib said.

Gutib also emphasized that besides the resorts, DOLE’s services are also available to souvenir shops, transport services, and workers in the informal sector. Meanwhile, Lake Sebu Mayor Antonio Fungan vowed the local government unit will support DOLE so that the establishments in the municipality will remain labor law compliant. “Just like our tagline “Kemdol, Lake Sebu” which means move forward, we will try our best effort to develop our community as one of the best tourist destinations,” Mayor Fungan said. On Sunday, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz led in the unveiling of a

marker declaring Lake Sebu as labor-law compliant tourist destination. Ten Lake Sebu resort owners were also awarded with a Certificate of Compliance on General Labor Standards and Occupational Safety and Health Standards, including Punta Isla Lake Resort, Nadine’s Lake Resort, Sunrise Garden Lake Resort, El Galong Water Park Resort, Merl Garden Spring Resort, Monte Cielo Resort, Mountain Lake Eco Resort, Mountain Log Resort, Dolores Lake Resort and Supreme Investigative and Security Agency. (DEDoguiles/ DOLE)

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato - The Department of Labor and Employment in SOCCSKSARGEN Region (DOLE 12) is pushing to build a stronger relationship with labor stakeholders in Lake Sebu, an important tourism zone in the region.

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