Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Livelihood trainings gikalipay sa kababayen-an sa Talikud


Davao del Norte Provincial Information Office

Madasigung migama sa ilang mga produkto ang mga miyembro sa people’s organizations nga gi-organisa ilawom sa Ugmad Komunidad program ni Gob. Rodolfo P. del Rosario, didto sa duha ka mga barangay sa isla sa Talikud, Island Garden City of Samal, niadtong Hunyo 21-22, 2012.

Mga fashion accessories gamit ang poka shells ang nahimong sentro sa trainings didto sa Brgy. Linusutan nga gitambungan sa kapin 20 ka mga miyembro sa LACAD kon Linusutan Achievers Association for Development.

Si Brgy. Capt. Eugene  Muaña, Jr. sa Brgy. Linusutan, nagpadayag sa iyang pasalamat sa programa ni Gob. del Rosario .
“Kon kini magmalampuson, kining mga poka shells nga abunda dinhi sa among baybayon, mahimo na unyang mapuslanon.  Pwede na unya namo kini ibaligya sa mga resort nga daghan kaayo dinhi sa among isla,” matud ni Kapitan Muaña.

Samtang sa kasikbit nga barangay, way pu-as ang pagtuon usab sa paggam og mga produkto gamit ang coco midrib sa mga miyembro sa UDA, kon Ugmad Dadatan Association. Si Kapitana Charito Tacsanan, nga mao usab ang Presidente sa maong kapunungan nalipay sa pag abot sa maong skills training sa ilang lugar.

“Kining plato ginama sa coco midrib, dako kaayong tabang dinhi namo ilabi na kay umaabot na ang among Araw ng Dadatan celebration. Nanghinaut kami nga tabangan pa kami sa probinsiya aron ma-improve pa ang kalidad niini,” sulti ni Kapitana Tacsanan.
Ang laing duha ka mga barangay sa Talikud nga mao ang Cogon og Sta. Cruz ang karon naka linya na usab alang sa laing livelihood trainings.

Gikatakdang mulunsad usab og trainings ang Ugmad Komunidad sa lain pang mga barangay sa mainland province sa sunod nga mga bulan.#

St. Peter Life Plans pours 3.8 million pesos for LGU Tagum’s reforestation program


By Tagum City Information Office

CITY OF TAGUM, DAVAO DEL NORTE - St. Peter Life Plans is elevating its corporate social responsibility a notch higher as it partnered with the City Government of Tagum for a joint three-year environmental venture to the tune of 3,800,000 pesos.

The two parties represented by City of Tagum Mayor Rey T. Uy and St. Peter Life Plans (SPLP) President and CEO York B. Vitangcol formally inked the Memorandum of Agreement on June 27, 2012 at the Energy Park in Barangay Apokon which cemented their partnership dubbed as “St. Peter Green Program.”

Under the program, SPLP shall provide, allocate, allot and distribute funds, resources and financial support for the purpose of developing, financing and sponsoring tree planting efforts for sustainable reforestation programs.

Said amount will be used for further development of the 50-hectare Tagum Botanical Park in Barangay San Agustin and shall include the following: cost of seedlings, site preparation, maintenance and contingency.

In his remarks prior to the signing of the agreement, Mayor Uy heralded the city government’s reforestation efforts and hailed SPLP for choosing Tagum as a venue for exercising its social responsibility.

“Thank you so much for being a part of the solution, for your social responsibility and rest assured that proper accounting and auditing will be strictly followed,” the local chief executive said.

Uy also stressed the city’s green brigade are now reaping fruits, judging by the decline of the annual average temperature and by the occurrence of fogs every early morning.

He said that aside from the massive reforestation efforts of the local government, the conversion of four-stroke tricycles to two-stroke as compliance to the Clean Air Act led to the reduction of carbon emission in the city.

In an interview, President Vitangcol also expressed his gratitude to the City of Tagum for letting them exercise their CSR in their quest to replenish the woods they had used for the production of their caskets.

“In every region that we are operating in, we search for local government units wherein reforestation and tree-planting is emphasized,” Vitangcol shared on why they chose Tagum as their partner.

He also hailed Mayor Uy for his exemplary “green” leadership which he labeled as a “legacy for future generations to emulate.”

“What we are doing right now is a real landmark that our kids will enjoy 20 years from now,” he added.

The 50-hectare Tagum Botanical Park is nestled on the sprawling site in Barangay San Agustin and will be planted with locally-grown trees as well as tropical trees coming from India, Australia, Indonesia, South Africa, Papua New Guinea and Malaysia.

A part of the park will be called “St. Peter Soul Trees Forest” in recognition to St. Peter Life Plans.
Mayor said the Tagum Botanical Park will be fully-developed by the year 2020. Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum


Forum slated to discuss biotechnology with communicators


DAVAO CITY, June 27 (PIA):   Myths about biotechnology will be answered tomorrow (June 28) during the Scientific Forum on Biotechnology for Communicators that will be held at the Grand Regal Hotel.

The forum  will provide participants information on scientific breakthroughs and trends of biotechnology  for them to deepen their understanding about biotechnology.

It aims to promote positive development on biotechnology as well as seek multi-sectoral cooperation for the promotion and advocacy of such scientific field of study.

Working behind the forum are Biotechnology for Life Media and Advocacy Center (BMARC),  Biotechnology Coalition of the Philippines (BCP) and the Philippine Information Agency XI.

House Representative Angelo Palmones of the AGHAM  Partylist is expected to grace the forum   to deliver his  keynote address.

The forum will bring to the panel a battery of speakers.  Among them are  Dr. Candida Adalla, director of Biotechnology Program Implementing Unit of the Department of Agriculture, to  discuss “The Trends and Development on Biotechnology;  and Jenny Panopio, special project coordinator of CEARCA to discuss Science Communication: Building Consensus  on Crop Biotechnology.

Other speakers are Joel Paredes, program director of BMARC, to talk about the “Challenges in Communicating Biotechnology; Abraham  Manalo, executive secretary of Biotechnology Coalition of the Philippines; and PIA Regional Director Efren F. Elbanbuena.  (PIA XI)

CENRO teams to fan out city as plastic ban starts


DAVAO CITY-  The City Environment and Natural Resources Office will deploy four teams to fan out across the city to catch violators of the Plastics Ban which will be fully implemented tomorrow June 28, 2012.

In 2009 the City passed an ordinance which bans the use of non-biodegradable plastics and polystyrene containers which are utilized as food and beverage take out containers. The implementing rules and regulations of the ban was set out in 2010 with a 2-year grace period which ends June 27, 2012.

In a press interview at Club 888 media forum in Marco Polo Davao held last June 27, CENRO chief Atty. Joseph Felizarta said that teams will be deployed to malls, manufacturers of plastics, vendors, and city’s markets. The CENRO chief also said he expects resistance from some establishments particularly in the markets.

These teams will issue citation tickets to those found violating the plastic ban. First time violators will be meted out a penalty of P300. The citation tickets will contain the name of the violator, the violations and the specific location.
“ We are ready, in fact dugay na mi ready (We have long been ready )” Felizarta said. His office estimates that about 31,000 to 34,000 business establishments expected to comply with the ordinance among these are more than ten plastic manufacturers in the city.

He said that Davao City is the first local government to have a City Ordinance which bans the use of non-biodegradable plastics as food and beverage containers.  Felizarta said that though some local governments have issued bans on plastics they are still just executive orders. (PIA 11/RG Alama)


Panaghiusa tumong sa DavNor inter-LGU tourney


ni Noel Baguio

Magsangka ang onse ka mga team nga mi-representar sa tanang dakbayan ug lungsod sa lalawigan sa inter-LGU youth basketball tournament.

Apan giklaro ni Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario nga tinguha sa four-game, semi home-and-away series matag Sabado ang panaghiusa, sportsmanship ug pag-uswag sa panlawas ug panghunahuna sa mga kabataan. Kini, matud pa niya, nahisubay sa iyang programa nga P.E.O.P.L.E. 

Pinaagi sa usa ka mensahe nga gibasa ni SKPF President ex-officio Board Member Eugene Katrina Estrada, gibatbat sa gobernador nga giduso sa probinsya ang integrated sports development program aron sa paglambo sa disiplina, confidence ug leadership, sa samang higayon nga ginapahilayo niini ang kabataan sa makadaot nga bisyo sama sa druga ug pag-apil sa krimen.

Atul sa paglusad sa tournament sa Rotary Covered Court in Tagum City sa milabay nga June 23, 2012, gipildi sa Samal team ang Carmen sa score nga 102-72. Midaog gihapon ang New Corella kontra Asuncion, 94-65, samtang giparok usab sa Tagum City ang Talaingod, 100-64.

Si Provincial Sports Coordinator Giovanni Gulanes mipahayag nga apil ang opening sa mga kalihokan sa kasaulogan sa ika-45 Araw ng Davao del Norte. Ipahigayon ang playoffs niini sa umaabot nga weeklong celebration sa adlawng natawhan ni Gov. del Rosario sa Septyembre 1.

Ang mga personahe nga mitambong milangkob nila Congressman Teddy Casino sa Bayan Muna Partylist, Board Member Atty. Joey Millan, Board Member Dr. Alfredo De Veyra, Mayor Joseph Nilo Parenas sa  Asuncion, Mayor Nestor Alcoran sa New Corella ug Assistant Provincial Administrator Romulo Tagalo.


Comval gisaulog ang National Arbour Day, empleyado nagtanom ug 4,000 kahoy


Aron makab-ot ang “20 Million 15 Trees” ilalom sa Provincial Greening Program nga gipatuman ni Gov. Arturo “Chiongkee” Uy sa tibuok probinsiya sa Compostela Valley, gisaulug sa tibuok probinsiya ang National Arbour Day ug atol niini gihimu sa ikaduhang higayon sa mga kabaranggayan sa 11 ka mga lungsod ang Simutaneous Tree Planting.

Manguna sa maong kalihokan ang mga empleyado sa kapitolyo, mga national line aegencies ug ilalom sa pagpanguna ni Gov. Arturo “Chiongkee” Uy ilang natanum ang mokabat 4,000 ka punoan sa kahoy sa Lamdag Agro-Eco-Tourism Complex sa Brgy. Pasian, Monkayo niadtong Hunyo 25,2012 - ang adlaw nga saulogon sa tibuok  Pilipinas ang National Arbour Day.

Kauban sa mga empleyado sa kapitolyo sa pagpananom ug kahoy ang mga empelyado ug mga dagkong opisyal sa National Line Agencies nga na-assign sa probinsiya sama sa DepEd, DENR, NCIP, DPWH, TESDA, NIA, DILG, LTO, NFA, COMELEC, ug uban pa.

Kon ipunon ang tanang kahoy nga natanom sa tibuok probinsiya sa unang pagsaulog sa National Arbour Day (June25) kini miabot ngadto sa kapin 107,000 ka punoan. Apan sa  tibuok tuig sa 2011 miabot gyod sa 3,444,448 ka punoan ang gidaghanon sa kahoy nga natanom sa mga katawhang Comvaleño. (gilbert cabahug/ids comval)

Rep. LAGDAMEO UNVEILS PROJECTS IN CARMEN DAVNOR


CARMEN, DAVAO DEL NORTE-As the Municipality of Carmen celebrated its 44th Founding Anniversary last June 18, 2012, Cong. Anton F. Lagdameo, Jr. of the 2nd District of Davao del Norte fulfillED his commitment of providing services to the peopleby inaugurating several significant projects benefiting not only the residents of this fast improving municipality but also its adjoining localities.

In a simple unveiling ceremony done during the municipality's founding anniversary culmination program, Cong. Anton F. Lagdameo, Jr. led the cutting of ribbon showing the perspective and pictures of accomplished projects, duly assisted by Carmen Municipal Mayor Marcelino Perandos and Vice Mayor Abet Sarin along with Sanguniang Bayan Members, provincial officials, investors, guests and residents of the locality.

Lagdameo, through his Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), initiated in the successful implementation of projects such as the P5-M concreting of the Public Market-Terminal to Carmen National High School Avenue,P3-M Lapaz Resettlement Project,  over P100-M worth of Drainage, River & Irrigation projects thru the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), the distribution of one (1) mini-ambulance unit per barangay for the 20 barangays of Carmen, including the forthcoming Construction of the ABC Hall among several projects lined up for the municipality.

The congressman is also instrumental in finally getting a P20M funding from the National Housing Authority headed by Vice President Jejomar Binay for the purchase and development of a 10 hectare lot Relocation Project also in the municipality.

These projects along with other notable projects from the national government, provincial and non-government organizations helped a lot in upgrading the status of the locality into a 1st Class municipality.

During the program, Carmen Mayor Marcelino Perandos gave a Plaque of Appreciation to the congressman for his various implemented Barangayanihan projects which magnanimously contributed to the progress of Carmen.

The mayor also gave a brief yet meaningful message thanking all offices who have in one way or another helped in the realization of Carmen’s development aspirations. (Edwin C. Lagumbay, Jr.)

Davao Light apologizes for the emergency power outage yesterday, June 26


Davao Light & Power Company apologizes for the power outage yesterday, June 26, which resulted due to a broken grounding line along Circumferential Road.

Davao Light's Corporate Communications Officer, Ross Luga, said that the outage which started at 9:13 AM has affected customers in some parts of downtown areas and those residing from Bacaca going to Diversion road.

Also affected by the service disruption were the electric utility's main offices; Ponciano Office, Rondez Engineering Center and its ERA Substation.

Hospital lines serving Limso, Davao Doctors, Brokenshire and Davao Medical School Foundation have also experienced the power interruption.  

Gradual restoration of power supply began at 9:59 AM and at 11:47 AM all affected areas have been fully energized.

Davao Light deeply apologizes to its customers for the inconvenience brought about by the emergency service interruption, hence, was not able to make prior notice. The company's emergency maintenance crew has exerted all efforts to restore power within the least possible time.

Loss prevention seminar set July 4 in Davao City


DAVAO CITY – The Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Davao Region will hold a seminar in a bid to prevent losses in retail business.

Tagged as Retail Best Practices Series: Loss Prevention Strategies for the Retail and Services Industries, the activity is slated on July 4, from 9:00am until 5:00pm, at the Kadayawan Hall of the Royal Mandaya Hotel in Davao City.
DTI Regional Director Marizon S. Loreto said this particular seminar is very important for the retail industry players as this will give them inputs on how to improve their operation so that they will prevent losses.

“PRA is a pro in terms of retail industry operation considering that its membership is composed of highly-respected institutions in the industry,” she said.

PRA is the nationally recognized retailers association in the Philippines, counting among its members the major players in the local retail and shopping center industry like SM, Robinsons, Rustan’s, Shopwise, Mercury Drugstore, National Bookstore, Automatic Center, Ayala Center, Araneta Center, Goldilocks, Penshoppe, Bench, Abenson, Rusty Lopez, Celine, Manel’s, to name a few.

“Since this is the first time for PRA to conduct this kind of seminar in Davao, local entrepreneurs who are into retail business must really take advantage of this rare opportunity,” Loreto said adding that DTI’s support and efforts at helping upgrade the skills and competencies of the retailers are very well-regarded to raise the retailing standards in the region.

Furthermore, PRA secretary general Evelyn Balmeo Salire said the organization is very optimistic about the impact of the seminar to the local retailers.

“We strongly believe that retailers in this region will benefit from this program and we in the PRA encourage you to participate and benefit from the new learnings you can gain from this offering to help your business grow fast,” Salire said.

A registration fee of P700 from each participant will be collected to cover cost of food at the venue. PRA and its partner will shoulder the cost of the training particularly for the speakers, materials, and other logistics needs.

Interested participants may contact Julian B. Loquinario of DTI-Davao’s Investment and Industry Development Division (IIDD) at 224-0511 local 417. (DTI11/JenMendoza)


PDEA XI Celebrates International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT)


 By the virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 264, every 26th Day of June is proclaimed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT).

In line with this celebration, the Preventive Education and Community Involvement Division (PECID) of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office XI led by DIRECTOR III EMERSON R ROSALES, Regional Director initiated various activities on the said date.

A photo/drug exhibit and film viewing will be seen at Victoria Plaza, J.P Laurel Ave. Davao City. The highlight of the celebration is the Community Outreach Program (Medical and Dental) at Barangay Centro Agdao Barangay Hall. The outreach program is a joint effort of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office XI, 10th Infantry Division of Philippine Army Eastern Mindanao Command, Westmont Pharmaceutical Division of United Laboratories and Barangay Officials of Barangay Centro Agdao.

The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT) brings a story message throughout the world, that dangerous drugs is really a serious problem and a menace to the society. Throughout the world, this menace gravely affects the peace and order of the community and the country as a whole.

This with the message “let us take part in our fight against dangerous drugs”. With everyone working together having a single advocacy against dangerous drugs, we can all achieve a drug free nation. (pdea)               

DavNor tourney fosters unity among youth


TAGUM CITY- Eleven teams representing the various Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) chapters in Davao del Norte were pitted against each other in a friendly inter-LGU youth basketball tournament.

Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario said the four-game, semi home-and-away series, which seeks to attain unity and harmony among the youth, is in line with his development agenda P.E.O.P.L.E.

 “We hold this event for our youth to possess a sound body and a sound mind, foster unity and sportsmanship, and develop friendships,” the governor said, in a message read by SKPF President ex-officio Board Member Eugene Katrina Estrada.

Del Rosario added the province is pursuing an integrated sports development program in order to provide a forum for the youth to learn skills such as discipline, confidence and leadership, while also offering a healthy diversion from harmful misconducts, such as drug abuse and involvement in crime.

During the tournament launching at the Rotary Covered Court in Tagum City on June 23, 2012, the Samal team easily clinched a strong victory over Carmen, 102-72. New Corella also repulsed Asuncion, 94-65, at the same time as, Tagum City humiliated Talaingod, 100-64, in the following matches.

Provincial Sports Coordinator Giovanni Gulanes said the kick off activity was held as part of the activities lined up for the 45th Araw ng Davao del Norte celebrations.

The playoffs will be among the highlights of the weeklong celebration of Gov. del Rosario’s birthday on September 1.
Other guests include Board Member Atty. Joey Millan, Board Member Dr. Alfredo De Veyra, Mayor Joseph Nilo Parenas of Asuncion, Mayor Nestor Alcoran of New Corella, City Councilor De Carlo Uy and Assistant Provincial Administrator Romulo Tagalo.(Noel Baguio)

Canoe Racing in Madgao River opened Eco-Tourism Month Celebration


ASUNCION, DAVAO DEL NORTE, June 26 – The people of Barangay Sagayen, in the town of Asuncion, Davao del Norte got to witness the festive annual Canoe Racing in Madgao River last June 21. The said race launched the Eco-Tourism Month to promote the proposed river cruise.

The momentous occasion highlighted with a theme: “It’s more fun boating in Madgao”, which includes other activities such as: rivers clean-up drive, clearing of planted trees and bamboo growing along Madgao river bank. The Canoe Racing was first held last 2005 and recently followed in 2011.

This time, many supporters got to watch the whole competition on either side of the river or cheered on the Sagayen Bridge. Various games in different categories were competed in this year’s race, namely: singles for men and women, doubles for women, and bamboo raft race or also known as “lumba sa kawayan nga gakit.”

Asuncion takes pride of its Madgao River which was launched among the prime tourist destinations of the province. It contains marine resources such as Carp and tilapia. A fresh water prawn called “uwang” can also be found here.

Through the Municipal Tourism Office, Asuncion Mayor Joseph Nilo Parreñas projected the Madgao River to be comparable as the river cruise in Loboc, Bohol. With the support of Gov. Rodolfo P. del Rosario’s program called Ugmad Komunidad, necessary actions are now ready to develop this area.

Present in this significant event were: SB Chair Tourism Junie Mae Miranda, Brgy. Capt. Eduardo Fullante, Asst. Provincial Administrator Romulo Tagalo, Provincial Tourism Officer Noel Daquioag, and Municipal Tourism Officer Servando Lawas.(Ladenice C. Tolibas/DavNor PIO)


Friday, June 22, 2012

Garbong lungsoranon giawit sa Himig Turismo


TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, June 22 – Nagkanindot ang pag-awit sa katahum, ilhanan ug garbo sa kalungsuran sa padayong pag-arangkada sa jingle contest Himig Turismo DavNor sa mga lungsod sa Probinsya sa Davao del Norte.

Bibo ang mga kanta  sa upat ka mga banda nga misalmot sa gipahigayon nga Himig contest sa Lungsod sa Kapalong, isip kabahin sa kasaulogan sa ika-45 nga Araw ng Davao del Norte.

Nasungkit sa Big Ribbon Band ang kadauggan pinaagi sa awit nga miagni sa katawhan sa pagpasigarbo sa ilang matahum nga dapit, samtang ga-alima sa tradisyon ug kahinguhaan niini.

Malaumon si Mayor Edgardo Timbol nga modaug ang maong banda sa umaabot nga grand finals sa Kapitolyo sa anniversary night sa Hulyo 1, 2012.

Ang champion makadawat ug cash prize nga P10,000, samtang ang second ug third placers mobitbit ug  P7,000 ug P5,000 nga premyo.

Samot nga nalingaw ang katawhan sa Kapalong pinaagi sa concert nga gi-sponsor sa San Miguel Beer.

“Atong gidala ang kalihokan sa 45th Araw ng Davao del Norte sa kalungsuran aron mabati sa atong katawhan nga kaparte jud sila sa atong selebrasyon,” Sulti ni OIC-Provincial Administrator Normal Lumain. (PIO-DavNor/Noel Baguio)

Pro-poor programs spur community participation, social involvement


DAVAO CITY, June 22 – Program participants or beneficiaries of government pro-poor initiatives have demonstrated improved involvement in community events and even expressed enhanced relations with other community members.

Moreover, participation in community projects showed a marked increase in self-esteem and family unity among project beneficiaries.

Some beneficiaries have even surpassed program expectations realizing and proving to all that they can do more if they just put their mind and heart into it. When people feel trusted and respected, they are happy and they tend to give more of themselves, motivated to achieve more.

Learning to grow

Tungod sa kagamay sa akong grado, naningkamot gyud ko makatoon sa seminar atubang sa mga kadagkoan. Nadungagan ang akong kahibalo pinaagi sa seminar. Motambong ko kon dunay ipatawag nga meeting (The fact that I am a mere elementary graduate, I willed myself to learn during seminars which really helped me. Also I attend meetings),” shares Susan Campa, 36, of Palma Gil, Talaingod. A mother of three, Susan is a barangay health worker (BHW).

She is also president of Self-Employment Assistance Kaunlaran Association (SKA) , a parent leader of Pantawid Pamilya while her community is a recipient of KALAHI-CIDSS potable water system.

Felix Sotto of Mabuhay, Laak, stressed, “Kinahanglan ang pagsalig sa kaugalingon aron makapadayon. Kon walay disiplina, dili mkapadayon (We need self-confidence to advance. Without discipline, we cannot move forward).” Felix, 60, is a farmer, member of SKA and active in his church.

For Marites Reambonanza of Magdum, Tagum City, her involvement in DSWD’s SKA changed her life socially and economically.

Daghan mi’g nakat-onan ug hinay-hinay pud na-develop among self-confidence. Sa among grupo, maminaw mi sa matag usa aron magkasabot. Kon dunay diperensya, mag-istorya ug motuman pud sa sabot (We learned a lot and gradually developed our self-confidence. We listen to each other and try to patch up whatever our differences).”  

Started in December 1996, Magdum SKA has evolved from a mere livelihood group into an active community partner that engages in lending, catering and meat processing. Marites serves as treasurer of Magdum SKA which regularly participates in and supports barangay affairs. 

Marites said the capability building opportunities helped members of Magdum SKA to be proactive. Moreover, they have learned project management and simple accounting, and they have become creative in their management style and in formulating organization policies.

Hipolito Molo heads the Garments Services Cooperative of Baguio District, Calinan, Davao City. His group just completed the Module One Basic Business Training conducted by the Philippine Social Enterprise Network (PhilSEN) through DSWD. He is positive his groups will sustain its good record as a SKA whose members have developed socially and economically with their garments and plastic bag production ventures.

Anam-anam naabri ang huna-huna. Nahagit ko nga kahibalo diay ko(Gradually my mind broadened. I was amazed of my ability),” recounts Joan Emely Duran, 28, and a high school graduate from Brgy. Amorcruz, Laak. Joan also receives subsidy from Pantawid Pamilya.

Janebeth Engalan, SKA treasurer also of Amorcruz, Laak and  secretary of Pantawid shared, “Nadugangan ang akong kahibalo. Kon wala ko kaapil sa SKA, wala ko kahibalo pag-process sa banko (I’ve learned more. Had I not joined SKA, I wouldn’t have known how to transact in a bank).”

For Agnes Veñalon, president of SKMS SEA Kabayan, Matina, Davao City, “Sa una, wala gayod mi pagpakabana. Nakalihok kami sa among kaugalingong negosyo tungod sa DSWD. Nahimamat namo ang mga tawo nga wala pa namo mailhan. Karon kahibalo na mi mosayaw, kanta, mo-apil og sports activities ug mo-socialize (We were indifferent at first. Then DSWD taught us basic business skills. We met new people and learned to dance, sing, join sports activities and socialize).”

Way of life

For most of the recipients, their involvement in government programs and even in non-government initiatives has developed them to really stand up and speak for themselves. Monthly or weekly meetings are a treat they come to look forward to and for some, these events have become a way of life.

Daghan makat-onan sa kada bulan nga FDS (I’ve learned so much from the monthly FDS –Family Development Session of Pantawid Pamilya),” admits Conchita Lagoy, 51. Conchita is a BHW, secretary to SKA Sto. Nino in Talaingod and a Pantawid parent leader.

Maribeth Tibay, 31, from Salawao, Talaingod recounts, “Ang eskwelahan napuno og tawo ug and health center napuno pud og tawo. Bisan unsa kalayo baktason para moadto gyud og health center (The school and health center were filled up. Despite the distance, people would hike just to reach the health center).” 

A farmer, Maribeth is also a Pantawid parent leader and treasurer of Sto. Nino SKA. Her community now enjoys a potable water system through KALAHI-CIDSS which also brought a community library, tribal housing units, corn mills, day care centers, among others to the people of Talaingod.

Magdum SKA president, Angelina Birondo admits, they have succeeded because they are always willing to listen and learn from DSWD project development officers assigned in their area. She said she has learned to share and cooperate in a group atmosphere. Likewise, she has developed high regard for herself and has learned to understand and appreciate her fellow members.

Florencia Ponte of Magdum SKA used to raise hogs and was too shy to even just talk to other people much more attend meetings. Her friends in the group helped her overcome this by making her speak out her mind, and giving her the responsibility to manage the funds for their Christmas party. She said she has earned their trust and they earned her respect. Now, she has no reason to be timid. She has improved and her life is much better and she always looks forward to their Tuesday meetings. 

Giving back

As program recipients immerse and learn from community projects, they commit to continue their involvement and support. Maribeth said she’ll work harder, attend trainings, be always active and learn to socialize while Susan promised to conform to program policy and be a model recipient. Morever, she would encourage others to attend assemblies and not be absent.

Conchita Lagoy, a BHW, parent leader for Pantawid and secretary to Sto. Nino SKA in Talaingod, shares Susan’s enthusiasm to adhere to program conditions and remain an active project member.  “Magtuman gyud sa mga pamalaod. Kogihan ko motambong ug mopa-ambit sa kauban.  Kinahanglan mag-aktibo sa buluhaton sa barangay aron masayod sa mga kalihokan (I really follow rules, attend meetings and share what I know. We need to be mindful of barangay affairs so we’ll be informed).” Conchita hopes to attend more livelihood seminars.

Further, Maribeth assured, “Maningkamot ko nga dili masayang ang hinabang sa gobyerno para sa amoa (I will strive so that government assistance will not be in vain).”

Teresita Cadungog of Palma Gil, Talaingod said she will share her time and be socially active. She says she is mindful of her obligations. Teresita is treasurer of Pantawid and a member of SKA.

As GKK president, Pantawid parent leader and SKA president, Lilan Libayao said she will permanently be active in community undertakings. She also promised, “Mapadayon ang maayong prinsipyo ug batasan (Continue to radiate fine attitude and values).” Lilan hails from JBL, Talaingod.

Other poor communities in the cities of Tagum and Davao, Laak, Talaingod and other municipalities in Davao Region also enjoy capital assistance through Sustainable Livelihood Program, sub-projects of KALAHI-CIDSS, subsidy from Pantawid Pamilya, hot meals through Supplementary Feeding, Social Pension for indigent senior citizens, Rice Subsidy for farmers and fisherfolks, among others. (DSWD-11/Carmela Cadigal-Duron)

Binay disappointed over failure to arrest Globe Asiatique owner, co-accused


Vice President Jejomar C. Binay expressed disappointment over the failure to apprehend Globe Asiatique (GA) president Delfin Lee and his co-accused in the syndicated estafa case filed by the government before a Pampanga court.

“The victims of Globe Asiatique are demanding justice. I am disappointed that Delfin Lee remains at large a month after the court ordered his arrest,” Binay said in a statement issued from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

"I hope that our law enforcement agencies will double their effort to find Lee and his co-accused," he added.

The Vice President had described the case against Lee as proof of the Aquino administration’s determination to pursue the campaign against graft and misuse of government funds.

Last May 22, Judge Amifaith Fider-Reyes of the Regional Trial Court Branch 42 in San Fernando, Pampanga issued warrants of arrest with no recommendation for bail against Lee and other GA officials.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) had filed syndicated estafa charges against Lee after an investigation ordered by Binay revealed that GA used "ghost borrowers" and fake documents to obtain over P6.5 billion in loans from the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG).

In October 2010, after he was named housing czar, Binay directed Pag-IBIG to investigate the fraudulent loans obtained by GA during the previous administration. The agency then filed a complaint against Lee and several others before the DOJ.

Earlier, Binay questioned the issuance by a Pasig Regional Trial Court of an injunction order covering the syndicated estafa case and another case for “double sale” filed by Pag-IBIG and DOJ against Lee. The Court of Appeals (CA), however, struck down the decision last month. (Office of Vice-President Jejomar Binay)

Outdoor Electrical Safety Tips


DAVAO CITY, June 22 – Electricity can be very useful as it lights our homes and operates major appliances. However, if handled improperly, it can be a potentially dangerous force that can cause injury and death.

Hence, Davao Light and Power Company provides its customers safety ways on how to play safe around electricity even when you are outdoors to prevent accidents and fatalities:

-Don’t climb power poles or towers, or trees near overhead power lines. Remember, that these lines are bare and live, thus, should be considered dangerous;

-If a person or object comes in contact with a power line, don’t touch the person or the object. Call Davao Light at telephone no. 229.3572 and 911 immediately;

-If your vehicle comes in contact with a power line, stay inside the car, and warn others not to touch the car or the downed line. If you must leave your vehicle, jump clear to avoid being in contact with the car and the ground at the same time;

-Kite flyers should make sure all kites are flown in wide open areas without overhead electric wires. The same safety rules apply when flying balloons, or any other toy that takes to the air; and,

-Watch for overhead wires when doing outdoor work - especially if using a ladder, tree trimming equipment, pool skimmer, or any long tool that could connect with electric lines.

Outdoor electrical safety begins with common sense.  If you see downed wires or any related situation that may pose danger to you or to other people, stay away from it and report it immediately to Davao Light at 229-DLPC (3752).

Ignorance is not an excuse, hence, always take these things to the experts first and never try to fix or solve them by yourself. (DLPC)

DavNor guv wants gender-responsive governance


TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, June 22 — Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario mobilized his Gender and Development (GAD) program for the realization of a gender-responsive governance.

Program Coordinator Antonia Dagala said the governor wants to put in place a gender-responsive governance in his term.

To this end, the Provincial Government under the office of Gov. del Rosario launched the Magna Carta of Women caravan Tuesday in Capitol, Tagum City as an initial step.

OIC-Provincial Administrator Norma Lumain described the activity, in her welcome address, as the “symbolic act of the Governor” to express his principle in governance as enshrined in his six-point development agenda, P.E.O.P.L.E.

As guest speaker, Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Regional Director Alberto Sipaco, Jr., representing CHR Commissioner Ma. Victoria Cardona, discussed among women leaders from various sectors in the province human rights and the salient points of RA 9710 or the “Magna Carta of Women.”

Making this law not just known to Dabaonon women but also understood is one of the goals of the caravan, which is set to hit the road to all three cities and eight municipalities of the province on July 19 this year until October. First stop is the town of New Corella.

Information dissemination and education, encounter of different women groups, focus group discussions of GAD focal points and women leaders, and generation of sex-gender disaggregated data are the expected outputs of the caravan which will be used to assess the real needs of Dabaonon women so that the government can properly address them.

When asked of her impression of the caravan, Brgy. Capt. Marites Timbol who is the wife of Kapalong town Mayor Edgardo Timbol is optimistic. 

“The caravan increases awareness and strengthens our advocacy to inform our women of their rights,” Madame Timbol said. Projects of the local government will also be made gender-responsive at the same time, she added.

After the caravan, a summit will be organized in November with the business sector and civic organizations as a prelude to capability building, which is the next step towards gender-responsive governance. (PIO-DavNor/Mera Grace E. Apuya)

Himig Turismo sings out community beauty, pride


TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, June 22 – The on-going provincial tourism jingle contest, dubbed as Himig Turismo DavNor, continues to churn out happy tunes that depict community, beauty, pride and identity.

Four homegrown bands belted out upbeat songs on positive sense of local identity and belonging that is being reinforced by the natural beauty of the place, as the Himig series made its third stopover in the municipality of Kapalong on Wednesday night.

The Himig competition, along with the danceport contest, were part of the second  LGU-based nighttime activity highlighting the 45th Araw ng Davao del Norte celebrations.

A rousing free concert sponsored by San Miguel Beer further entertained the crowd at the Municipal Hall Grounds.

The Big Ribbon Band, whose strongly-accented cheerful melody encouraged residents to take pride in the various attractions of their town while maintaining local traditions and identities, won the jingle event.

Mayor Edgardo Timbol believed the band has the potential to make it to the provincial finals slated on the anniversary night of July 1, 2012 at the Capitol Grounds.

The grand winner will take home a cash prize of P10,000, while the  second and third placers will also secure P7,000 and P5,000, respectively.

OIC-Provincial Administrator Normal Lumain said the Himig’s aim of promoting community belonging and pride bodes well to this year’s Kadagayaan festival.

“Atong gidala ang kalihokan sa 45th Araw ng Davao del Norte sa kalungsuran aron mabati sa atong katawhan nga kaparte jud sila sa atong selebrasyon (We have brought the festivities to the LGUs so that our people will truly feel that they are a part of our celebration),” she said. (PIO-DavNor/Noel Baguio)

PDEA boosts coordination of anti-drug ops in DavNor


TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, June 22 – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in the province strengthened its coordination with the Police Provincial Office by deputizing about a hundred anti-narcotics police officers in the province.

PDEA Provincial Officer IO3 Clodito Canada said the drug buster cops are tasked to conduct in-depth investigations and subsequent raids of supposed drug lairs in the barangays, in coordination with the PDEA.

Atty. Bhen Joseph Tesiorna, Legal Retainer of PDEA-XI revealed the deputation is in line with the PNP’s strict standard operating procedures, which bar police personnel who are not members of any anti-narcotics unit from conducting planned anti-illegal drug operation.

He explained the planned anti-illegal drugs operations include buy-busts, search warrants and clandestine laboratory operations, maritime and airport interdictions, marijuana eradiation operations and other similar police operations.

Tesiorna emphasized the need for greater synergy between PDEA and the PNP, among other law enforcement agencies, in carrying out anti-drug operations, pursuant to Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Under the law, he said PDEA remains the lead agency in the government’s campaign against illegal the proliferation of prohibited drugs.

Yet, while the PNP, NBI and other law enforcement agencies continue to conduct anti-drug operations in support of the PDEA, the said agencies shall coordinate with the PDEA before conducting all anti-drug operations.

Otherwise, such agencies should inform the PDEA of their anti-drug operations within 24 hours.

Canada bared 43 barangays of the province are presently affected by the drug menace, with the narcotics making their entry in the barangays of Madaum in Tagum City, Cabaywa in Asuncion town and Tibal-og in the municipality of Sto. Tomas.

He said his office, together with the PNP has already successfully conducted a total of 35 anti-drug operations from January to May this year, resulting to the filing of cases in court and confiscation of 30 grams of shabu and 3,592.3 grams of marijuana.

He also urged the reactivitation of the anti-drug abuse councils from the city, municipal down to the barangay level “since the communities are our first defense against prohibited drugs.” (PIO-DavNor/Noel Baguio)

DILG allots P47M Performance Challenge Fund for Davao Region LGUs


DAVAO CITY, June 22 – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has allotted P47 million Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) as incentives for good governance-compliant local government units (LGUs) of Region XI.

For this year’s PCF release, priorities are the LGUs belonging to the 1st-3rdincome class municipalities and cities.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo said, “In this region, I am so pleased to announce that all local government units passed theSeal of Good Housekeeping (SGH). Because without the SGH, there will never be PCF.”

“Meaning, to be able to qualify and avail of the PCF funds, LCEs must comply with the government’s full disclosure policy on the use of public funds, exemplary governance and delivery of basic services,” Robredo explained. 

The SGH for LGUs is in line with the Department’s  commitment to aggressively scale up interventions to elevate the practice of good, accountable, participatory and transparent governance; commitment to public interest; and development.  

Regional Director Francisco C. Jose said that SGH-compliant and PCF recipient LGUs may use the fund to jumpstart local development initiatives that are aligned with the national government’s program for the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals such as on tourism and economic development, disaster risk reduction and management and solid waste management.

The PCF may also be used to finance projects such as school buildings, rural health units, water and sanitation system, local roads and bridges, slaughterhouses, flood control, reforestation, postharvest facilities, cold storage facilities and other programs and projects that would enhance local government services.

More importantly, the PCF is not intended as competition among LGUs but to reward them for helping the government attain the MDG of reducing poverty and improving the opportunities for poor households to rise above their current conditions.

Congress earlier allotted some P500 million for the DILG’s PCF funds for the various SGH-compliant LGUs nationwide, giving out P1 to P7 million each to qualified recipients.

Robredo said DILG also intends to set aside funds for those LGUs who will be awarded with the Seal of Disaster Preparedness (SDP).

“Through the SDP program, we will not only provide incentives to LGUs that fared well on disaster preparedness, we will also be able to assess performance gaps, provide policy or program intervention based on the identified gaps, and monitor performance progress,” Robredo explained. (DILG-11/Mika-Chan S. Magtulis)

77 ARMM towns to benefit from potable water projects


By Carina L. Cayon

DAVAO CITY, June 22 (PIA) – Some 77 municipalities in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will benefit from potable water projects set to be implemented by the Aquino administration under the region’s Transition Investment Plan.

President Benigno S. Aquino III assured this on Wednesday during the gathering of the local government units of ARMM held in Davao City where officials discussed on local governance and reforms in the region.

Aquino said initial assessment has been made on the five towns in Basilan, 21 in Lanao del Sur, 34 in Maguindanao, eight in Sulu and nine in Tawi-Tawi as recipients of the projects.

“Ito na nga po ang papatid sa uhaw ng mga komunidad na matagal nang natuyuan ng lalamunan,” he stated in his keynote speech during the ARMM Convention on Local Governance.

The potable water projects are part of the approved P8.59 billion fund which the President committed to fund various projects apart from the potable water need placed under the Transition Investment Plan of ARMM being implemented toward the next ARMM election.

Aquino said the fund also aims to address the needs for health infrastructure, core shelter assistance for families caught in the middle of the political conflict, farm-to-market roads, repair and rehabilitation of roads and bridges and energization of remote areas.

“Makakaasa po kayong nasa likod ninyo ang ating administrasyon, handang alalayan kayo sa inyong pangangailangan,” he assured the ARMM mayors and governors.

“Binigyan po tayo ng pagkakataon upang patunayan sa mga taga-ARMM na ang mabuting pamamahala ay nagbubunsod ng tunay na pagginhawa,” Aquino said.

The President urged the ARMM people not to waste this good opportunity, saying “Huwag nating ipagpabukas pa ang kaya nating isakatuparan ngayon para sa lalo pa nating pag-usad,” he said. (PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon)

Residents of gold-rush brgy. informed of geo-hazard risks


MONKAYO, Compostela Valley, June 22 (PIA) – Residents of gold-rush Brgy. Mt. Diwata in this town were warned Thursday (June 21) of the vulnerability of the area to landslide and earthquake in a forum on geo-hazard conducted by the Directorate on Information of the National Task Force Diwalwal (NTFD).

The Program Monitoring Coordination Center (PMCC) of NTFD through the Philippine Information Agency XI endeavored to take on such activity to emphasize the risks that residents were facing while staying at the 729-hectare Brgy. Mt. Diwata declared by the government as small scale mining area.

Present during the forum were high school students and their advisers, presidents of parents-teachers association, small mining operators, wives of mining workers locally known as abanteros and barangay community workers.

Mines and Geo-sciences Bureau (MGB) Information Officer Cordelia Ea discussed during the forum the vulnerability of Mt. Diwata to landslde while Science Research Assistant Eleazar Jorgio of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) discussed the vulnerability of the area to earthquake.

Interior and Local Government Regional Director Francisco Jose, 25th Infantry Battalion commanding officer Lt. Col. Cesar Molina and from Provincial Board Member Moran Tacasan also joined PIA-11 in waging the disaster mitigation campaign.

They conveyed their common concern for barangay residents to be mindful of the hazard in Mt. Diwata where most of the areas have been declared by MGB to be in high risk condition.

Mt. Diwata Punong Barangay Rodolfo Boyles in the forum expressed common sentiment of residents of their hesitance to leave the area despite constant reminders of national government agencies of the risks they are facing.

“They view it as a way of getting rid of the small scale miners and their families so that large scale miners will take their place,” he said in the vernacular.

PIA XI Regional Director Efren F. Elbanbuena  made it clear that the PMCC , the Information Directorate in particular, had no intention to cast fear among residents of Mt. Diwata nor it wanted to drive them away.

He conveyed the deep concern of the government to keep residents fully aware of the situation in their area, especially about the geo-hazards risks.

Aside from the geo-hazard risks, Elbanbuena also called the attention of barangay officials and the residents as well of the fire risk as more shanties are sprouting in the mountainous gold-rush barangay.  (PIA-11/Jeanevive Duron-Abangan)