Dugang P88.55 M gihatag ni P-Noy sa Comval alang sa pabalay

Mihatag na sad karon si Presidente Benigno Aquino-III ug dugang P88.55 Milyones alang sa pabalay sa Compostela Valley, ug maoy hatagan niini kadtong Typhoon Pablo Victims nga wa na gyoy balayng kapuy-an tungod totally damaged ang ilang balay human mahiagom sa grabe ka kusog nga pagkuso-kuso sa giilang usa sa pinakangilngig nga bagyo sa kalibutan.

Sa malampusong Provincial Development Council(PDC) Meeting niadtong Biyernes Hulyo 26,2013 gisulti mismo ni PDC Chair Gov. Arturo “Chiongkee” Uy sa iyang paghatag ug “short briefer” nga pinaagi sa opisina sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) si President PNoy mihatag karon sa Comval ug dugang P88,550,000.00 alang sa pabalay ilalom sa ilang “Modified Shelter Assistance Program”.

Kining kwartaha gamiton alang sa “On Site Construction” sa unang 1,265 pamilyang Comvaleño nga totally damaged sa bagyo ang ilang balay apan diha nahimutang sa lugar nga deklaradong “Build Zone” kon “safe for habitation” sa Gobyerno. Ang kada balay adunay Budget nga P70,000.00 pesos alang sa materyales. Way labot niini ang budget sa labor component pinaagi sa Cash for Work nga magagikan gihapon sa DSWD.

Ang construction dumnalahon sa probinsiya, ug matud ni Gov. Uy nga sundon gihapon ang GK Way nga pamaagi sa pagtukod nga diin patabangon gihapon niya sa “On Site Construction” ang community.

Sa laing bahin, gisulti karon ni Vice Gov. Manuel “Way Kurat” Zamora nga aprobado  na sa Comval SP ang Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) sa DSWD ug sa probinsiya alang sa gihisgotang P88.55 Milyones nga pundo sa pabalay. Gawas nga aprobado na ang  MOA, gihatagan sad sa Comval SP si Gov. Uy ug Authority sa pagpirma niini ilallom sa naaprobahang reslolution nga giduso ni SP Member Atty. Arvin Dexter Lopoz atol sa 4th Regular Session sa 6th Sanggunian niadtong Miyerkules Hulyo 24,2013.

Mibuto pabor sa naaprobahang resolution sila SP Members Tyron Uy, Ramil Gentugaya, Atty. Ruwell Peter Gonzaga, Cesar Richa, Macario Humol, Paul Galicia, Joseph Jaoud, Neri Barte, Moran Takasan, Felisa Navarro ug uban pa. (gmc/ids comval)

Statistics agencies to be merged with onset of new law

DAVAO CITY July 31 (PIA)- If ever it becomes a law, the proposed Philippine Statistical Act will merged different statistical agencies under one body.

National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) Secretary General Dr. Jose Ramon Albert said the proposed law which has been approved by the Senate and is just waiting for the signature of the President will merge NSCB with the National Statistics Office (NSO), the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics of the Department of Agriculture (DA-BAS) and the Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-BLES) under one statistical body- the Philippine Statistics Authority which will be headed by the National Statistician.

The proposed law aims to reorganize the Philippine Statistical System by centralizing in one body the statistics-generating agencies of the government. The body will be attached to the National Economic Development Authority for policy coordination.

"There will only be one who will release official data or official statistics in order to ensure quality statistics." says Gervacio Selda, executive director of the Statistics Research and Training Council (SRTC). under the act the SRTC would be constituted as the  Philippine Statistical Research and Training Institute (PSRTI) which would conduct an independent review of statistics released by the PSA.

Carmelita Ericta, NSO administrator said under the law the positions of the head of offices of the NSO, NSCB, BAS, BLES will be abolished. She said the PSA can post its staff in government agencies when their expertise is needed.

She also said the law can answer the issues of the agencies being undermanned, of the present 70% of the NSO positions are filled while 50% for the NSCB.

The proposed law which began as House Bill 6229 was certified as urgent by President Benigno Aquino III and was passed by the Senate under the 15th Congress last June 6.

Meanwhile regional statisticians are welcoming the anticipated passage of the law. "We wholeheartedly welcome it." says Jaime Paller, Regional Director of NSO-XI.

It will also address the dual personalities of statisticians working for the line agencies under DA and DOLE who are torn between the mandate of their mother departments and being part of the Philippine Statistical Association.

One of the key essence of the law was to separate data-gathering and data-vetting function from the regular functions of these Departments. This would result in a more accurate and reliable statistical data which contributes to the formulation of policies and programs that addresses the country's social and economic development issues.

The heads of the country's statistical bodies were in Davao City last week as they graced the presentation of the 2012 Economic Performance of the Davao Region, an annual tradition held by the National Economic Development Authority in conjunction with the regional statistics-generating offices. The presentation was held last Thursday (July 25) at the Department of Social Welfare and Development-XI conference hall. (PIA/RG Alama)

Pablo-hit LGUs realize need to prepare better

TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, July 31 (PIA):   Typhoon Pablo-hit Local Government Units (LGUs)  have realized the serious need to strengthen their preparedness for disaster and to  adapt to extreme weather conditions to survive.

At the close of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) Summit held in Tagum City in Davao del Norte, local chief executives of Typhoon Pablo-hit provinces of Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley and selected municipal and barangay governments shared life changing lessons learned from super typhoon Pablo experience. They all shared  the realization  to prepare even better.

Davao Oriental Provincial Gov. Corazon Malanyaon acknowledged “preparedness” as necessary to survival.

“Climate change is real. Hence, preparedness to disaster, calamity and extreme weather conditions is a must and the need to adapt to this change is necessary for survival,” she said in giving learning experience before participants of the Regional DRRM Summit held at the Bulwagan ng Lalawigan ng Davao del Norte.

Malanyaon also viewed changes to lifestyle as requisite to readiness to disaster  as she asked people to be more receptive to warnings and signals “of impending event that might affect the lives, security and property of the community.”

Citing the front location of Davao Oriental to the Pacific Ocean, she further called for a change in attitude among her constituents whom she wanted to  build a more resilient community of people who possess moral and spiritual strength.

“Resilience to calamity lies not only on physical preparedness but also on moral and spiritual strength.  If the affected people are willing to help themselves, support shall come and  calamity can be surmounted,” she  pointed out.

Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of Compostela Valley Governor Arturo T. Uy, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council  (PDRRMC) executive officer Raul Villoceno admitted the need for the province to strengthen its disaster preparedness and response capability.

Villoceno pointed out the need to reduce vulnerability and exposure of communities to all hazards by relocating families to safer locations and mitigating the impact of future disasters through dredging river banks.

He saw the need to increase the level of awareness of the community to the threats and impacts of hazards, risks and vulnerabilities.

Along this line, the provincial government of Compostela Valley hatched the plan to train and organize a team of facilitators to conduct disaster risk reduction management at the community level in all barangays.

Preparedness has to go down to the community level so folks would come to  understand and realize the risks that they are confronting “and decide what they can do to minimize the impact of disasters” he said.

To better prepare the communities, Villoceno said  setting up early warning system, identifying evacuation sites, formulating disaster preparedness and response plan, conducting micro mitigation activities, doing drills and simulation exercises, and organizing first responders at the community level are necessary measures. (PIA XI/ Jeanevive Duron-Abangan)

UP College Admission Test, 03-04 August

The 2014 University of the Philippines College Admission Test (2014 UPCAT) is set on 03-04 August 2013 (Saturday-Sunday) nationwide.

Last-minute applications and other concerns will be entertained on Friday, August 2 at the appointed Test Centers nationwide. Each applicant will take the Test in only one session out of the four sessions spread out over the two days.

The 5-hour Test covers areas in Language Proficiency, Reading Comprehension, Math, Science, and Essay-writing.  The morning session starts at 6:30 A.M. while the afternoon session starts at 12:30 P.M.

Applicants must be in the Test Center at least 30 minutes before the examination time.  

The UPCAT Test Centers in Mindanao are Zamboanga del Norte National High School (Dipolog City), Southern Mindanao Colleges (Pagadian City), Western Mindanao State University (Zamboanga City), Capitol University (Cagayan de Oro City), MSU - Iligan Institute of Technology (Iligan City), Bukidnon

State College (Malaybalay City), Camiguin Polytechnic State College (Mambajao, Camiguin), Misamis Occidental National High School (Oroquieta City), Digos City National High School, Tagum City National High School, University of the Philippines Mindanao (Davao City), Notre Dame University (Cotabato City), Mindanao State University (Gen. Santos City), University of Southern Mindanao (Kabacan, North Cotabato), Notre Dame of Marbel University, Sultan Kudarat Polytechnic State College (Tacurong City), Father Saturnino Urios University (Butuan City), Agusan del Sur National High School (San Francisco, Agusan del Sur), Surigao State College of Technology (Surigao City), and Jacinto P. Elpa National High School (Tandag, Surigao del Sur).  (UPMin)

BRGY. MALATIVAS UG SOUTHERN DAVAO FOUNDATION DAY, DUNGAN GISAULOG

Mark Anthony Gellor/Erwin Cubio – CIO Panabo

Panabo City, Davao del Norte - Laing tuig na sab sa pagpasalamat ug pagpa-ambit sa nadawat nga grasya sa Barangay Malativas ug Southern Davao atol sa ilang Foundation Day kaniadtong July 25, 2013.

Gisaulog sa barangays Malativas ang ika-20th Founding Anniversary ug ika-64th sa Barangay Southern Davao ug kini giduyugan sa nagkadaiyang kalihukan ug aktibidades nga giandam sa barangay council.

Sa barangay Malativas gisugdan ang kalihukan sa barangay pinaagi sa Trade Fair nga nag-promotar sa nagkadaiyang produktong agrikultura sa barangay.

"Mas bibo ang atong celebration karon. Mas naka-andam kita og mga activities nga makalingaw sa katawhan, duna tay gidugang ug kini ang pagpartner nato sa GMA Kapuso Network" matud ni Barangay Kapitan Samuel Dacalus.

Dugang pa ni Brgy. Kapt. Dacalus nga gina awhag ang mga taga Barangay Malativas nga naay mga produkto nga mo-display sa ilang products aron matabangan nga ma-market kini. Naay mga organic vegetables sama sa talong, upo, ampalaya ug uban pa.

Kabahin sab sa aktibidad sa barangay ang Basketball GMA Kapuso tali sa Brgy. Malitavas Council, indigay sa pagkanta, Brgy. Talent Showdown ug daghan pa.

Sa pikas bahin, ang Barangay Southern Davao wala nagpalupig sa mga gilatad nga mga aktibidades. Luyo niini gikalipay sab ni kapitan Jose Resurrection ang kalampusan sa Fun Run ug ball games mga aktibidades nga ang tumong sa pagpalapad pa sa kampanya sa pagpaugnat sa kusog.

Matud pa ni Kapitan Resurrection nagpahigayon usab ang Public Employment and Services Office ug Job Matching sa mga tao nga interisado maka kita ug trabaho hango sa ilang kwalipikasyon.

Pagkagabii pahitaboon ang macho gay contest, amateur contest ug cultural night dugang kalingawan sa taga Barangay Southern Davao.

Rellon donates wheel chair to needy patient

By: City of Tagum Information Office

In line with the administration’s goal of a strengthened Social Services and the promotion of a God-centered, people- oriented and more humane governance, program anchored on his EAGLE WINGS program, Tagum City Mayor Allan L. Rellon personally awarded on Monday, July 29, 2013, a wheelchair to Mrs. Julieta Dapa of Purok Maharlika, Barangay Cuambogan, Tagum City.

The 63-year old mother of eight (8) was chosen by the local chief executive as the second recipient of the wheelchair, which was part of the three sets that were turned over to Mayor Rellon by Vice President Jejomar Binay, after hearing and subsequently experiencing firsthand, the heart-wrenching plight of the former market vendor.

Aiming to lessen the suffering that befell Mrs. Dapa who became immobile after figuring in a hit and run motorcycle accident in 2008 and thereafter suffered a stroke, Mayor Rellon hoped that the wheelchair donated by the city would serve to improve the recipient’s limited mobility and help boost her family’s disposition.

Also present during the awarding of the wheelchair were City Social Welfare and Development Officer Nora Lupiba, Project Development Officer II for IP/Muslim Affairs Xylee Labastida and Project Development Officer II for Gender And Development (GAD) Anthonet Leones. Richi D. Gulle of CIO Tagum

Rellon lauds Tagum’s police force, security officers

By: City of Tagum Information Office

 CITY OF TAGUM, DAVAO DEL NORTE—Mayor Allan L. Rellon praised the full force of the Philippine National Police-Tagum City Police Office led by the newly-assigned Chief of Police Solomon de Castilla for its successful pursuit against lawless elements and its continued support to his administration’s crusade against criminalities.

 The local chief executive led in the awarding of cash incentives to the men in uniform who helped in apprehending two suspects alleged to be involved in drug operations in the city.

“This proves that our strategy to make Tagum secure and peaceful is effective,” Mayor Rellon told city employees during their flag-raising ceremony last July 29, 2013 where the simple awarding ceremony was held.

The police arrested last June 5, 2013 two suspects identified as Tomas Cañas and Madeline Plama at Abellera Compound in Pioneer Avenue along with methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly referred to as shabu worth 360,000 pesos, one .45-caliber pistol and other drug paraphernalia.

The two were charged in violation of Section 11 and Section 12 of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

Among those who were recognized during Monday’s simple ceremony are erstwhile PSupt. Epe Rillo, Deputy Chief of Police Alvin Saguban, PSI Fernando Casiano, Police Inspector Leah Cassandra Pama, SPO1 Gene Beñares, SPO1 Bregido Lagula, PO3 Cyrian Matobato, PO2 Loyd Mark Wamilda, and four other personnel under PNP’s intelligence unit.

Likewise, Mayor Rellon also trumpeted the achievement of the newly-minted Security Management Office (SMO) under the supervision of its chief, Ret. Police Officer Elmer Rellon, for the apprehension of several personalities with dubious actions, including one person who is driving a single motorcycle with no plate number and two others charged with qualified theft.

“We wish to congratulate our police officers and our SMO and for this, we are determined to strengthen more our support mechanism,” Mayor Rellon said, citing the vibrant cooperation between the PNP and the SMO, the so-called force multipliers, as a vital tool in achieving his agenda on peace and order.

It can be recalled that the fulfillment of genuine peace, security and safety, as anchored on his pet advocacy dubbed as EAGLE WINGS Program, is among his administration’s priorities in his first 100 days in office.

Mayor Rellon disclosed that a generally secure and peaceful Tagum will lure more investors in the city as well as vouch the city’s reputation as a vital hub for events and conventions, especially that the city will be the host city of the Mindanao Qualifying Leg of the Batang Pinoy Games this August 27-31, 2013 and the National PRISAA Games next year. (Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum)

Kapalong hosts 1st career guidance advocacy

KAPALONG, Davao del Norte, July 29---  The Municipal Government of Kapalong through the Public Service Employment Office (PESO) in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) held its first ever career guidance advocacy for the Kapalong-Talaingod Cluster at the Kapalong Gymnasium last July 23, 2013.

All guidance counselors and coordinators from the different public and private schools in Kapalong and Talaingod  actively participated the one day congress with  more than a thousand  4th year students in attendance.

The students were dressed in different attires of their choice which manifest the persona that they wish to become after taking vocational or college courses.

Parents were also enjoined to participate much that they are the foremost to understand the importance of guiding their children on what careers to pursue.

 “I’m thankful that we are invited to this kind of gathering because this would guide us  specially our children to decide on what really the course they should take up after their high school,”  Josephine Paraiso, a parent stressed the importance of the event.

Melanie O. Mandin, president of the guidance counselors of Kapalong discussed the Career Pathways based on Holland’s Theory while Career Planning and Career Talk were facilitated by the representatives from DOLE/PESO, Department of Science and Technology, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. 

No less than the Regional Director of the Commission on Higher Education, Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr.  presented CHED’s scholarship programs. The Administration of the local college of Kapalong was also given the chance to promote the college’s courses being offered. 

Vice Mayor Ma. Theresa R. Timbol, representing Mayor Timbol in the opening program recognized the effort of PESO Kapalong represented by PESO chief  Edwin E. Ganiera and the core of guidance counselors and partner agencies of their effort in promoting career guidance in the municipality. 

“Rest assured that the local government will continue to support this endeavor and we look forward for another round of gathering like this to ensure that our students would really be guided of their career path,” Vice Mayor Timbol bared.

Timbol added that the career guidance advocacy is a concrete manifestation that the LGU is supporting the national government’s developmental effort of addressing the mismatch of the available human resources and the jobs required by our industries. (Christie Jean Ganiera,MIO Kapalong)

USWAG ComVal trounces DepED in Nabunturan bball league

COMPOSTELA VALLEY, July 29 ---Vincent Sambas hit the dagger from the rainbow territory in the last 1:00 minute of the final quarter to secure a getaway lead past DepED, 82-76 in the 1st Mayor’s Cup Inter- Agency Open Basketball Tournament Championship Game last July 22 at the jampacked Nabunturan Covered Court in celebration  of the 56th Araw ng Nabunturan.

Crowd-favorite DepED  who topped all the way in the first three quarters of the import –decorated tourney struggled downtown when Sambas with a game-high 20 points, shot perfectly 5 out of 5 from the arc  including the killer trey that ignited a breakaway for USWAG to take the driver’s seat at crunch time.

“It was our defense and teamwork that mattered most in our victory,” said Sambas, a native of Nabunturan who is a consistent sharp shooting gunner point guard.’

DepED fielded younger and faster trio in Angelo Morilla, Kelly Maranan and Eduardo Advincula, all scoring double digits. Maranan led all scorers with 20 points.

DepED was earlier a picture of a winnable whose fastbreak transitions and perimeter drives were unstoppable including that of Morilla’s highlight pass to Advincula for an alley-hoop. It was simply a statement of firepower that wowed the crowd and threatened the hefty USWAG.

 But signs of fatigue crept closer to the endgame that set their offensive fire dying and defensive wall collapsing because they all played fulltime. Only Borres, Santiago and Nistal served as breathers for less than three minutes for DepED while USWAG capitalized on their deeper bench to sap DepED’s powerhouse.

‘We could have maintained the lead until the final minutes and took home the trophy but we became loose in defending the shooters from firing the treys in the crucial moments, and that’s why we lost’, said Coach Allan Taray of DepED in an interview.

Taray also expressed dismay over dubious calls from the referees at the time when DepED was taking control of the life cycle. He said USWAG committed too many travelling violations which the referee failed to call. Thrice were also foul calls, he said, that were not supposed to be awarded against DepED players. Such situation lost DepED’s focus in the game.

The game also turned out to be physical when DepED was leading by 14 points in the first quarter, 33-19.Bothered, USWAG’s Gani Gisma hit Christopher Nistal  on the cheek and was called for a technical foul.

Forward Cablas also had a second motion against Velasco that drove coach Taray inside the court to stop Cablas from attacking Velasco.     

 Both team players got off the bench toward the center court during verbal tussle. Referee Alfetche though succeeded in pacifying at that time the players and crowd became loud. Velasco took the charities but missed.

USWAG, a team of the Provincial Government of Compostela Valley led by Provincial Sports Coordinator Francis P. Secuya, continued their chase to taste the lead until they came closer by five points, 40-35, at halftime. The surge continued in favour of DepED until Allan Palaca’s two consecutive treys put USWAG down by three in the last 6:29 of the final quarter, 62-65. Cablas then, hit the jumper to move them an inch closer of snatching the lead, 64-65.And lately,the tide changed in favour of USWAG going to the end.

With last two minutes remaining, lights suddenly went off in the gym and it took the organizers half an hour to restore power for game resumption. Reenergized DepED tried to recover the momentum, but it was too little, too late. Their hope to regain the lead was shut down by USWAG’s big men Bago and Gisma who controlled the boards for stabs underneath the basket.

More hurting was when Sambas swished a trey and another to seal the triumph before he was fouled out in the last 16 seconds.

USWAG bagged 5,000 cash plus a Mayor’s trophy. DepED settled for 3,000 pesos and DANECO was good for 1,000. Other categories included the Top 40, Inter-High Schools and Inter Barangays. The tournament was sponsored by Nabunturan Integrated Cooperative, Local Government Unit of Nabunturan and other partner institutions of this town. (RITCHELL ‘JONG’ CRUZ, SP III Manat National High School)

Tagum Mayor spells out dev't. agenda with councilors

TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, July 29--- With the city’s existing several committees and various board compositions, Mayor Allan L. Rellon eagerly meets the coordinating council of ELA (Executive-Legislative Agenda).

“It is my strong desire to meet the Mother of all Councils”, Rellon said as he emphasized the importance of ELA in his administration.

ELA is a collective plan mutually developed and agreed conscientiously by both the Executive and the Legislators. ELA too is considered as the most powerful vehicle of effective governance in every LGUs.

Mayor Rellon laid to city solons his EAGLE WINGS thrust as the topmost priority programs in the formulation of policies and legislative measures for the city.

On budget concern, Rellon is decisive to meet the CY 2014 conservative target of 911 Million. He vows to live his advocacy and crusade in protecting people’s money.

As a result, in line with P-Noy’s “Daang Matuwid”, he is determined to pin down culprits of any previous projects if COA finds it anomalous or having irregularities.

He vows to make Tagum an investor-friendly city by revisiting the tax code on regulatory fees, surcharges, and the 5% annual increase to be reviewed by the former budget officer Mr. Dean Briz and former economic enterprise manager Mr. Lowell Brillante.

Mayor Rellon allows the entry of Van transportation in the city with a valid yellow plate as this would generate millions of income for the city with a reminder not to pick up passengers along highways as this has been prohibited by LTFRB on the basis of Terminal-to-Terminal provision.

The LCE opted to make all heavy equipment functional through repairs and delay for the meantime new purchases to save and redirect the remaining funds of his predecessor.

He has already deployed his taskforce on drainage maintenance, PRIM (Purok Road Improvement Maintenance) to take care of grassroots communities and the schools’ improvement with SIM (School Improvement Maintenance).

He strengthened the working condition of engineers by eyeing on projects that should be partly done by administration and partly by contract.

Mayor seeks support to revise the Purok Code, repeal the City Investment Promotion Code and the amendment of Code of Economic Enterprises on the provision to activate the Economic Enterprises Regulatory Board.

Working with the New City Legal Officer of Tagum Atty. Armando Seras, Mayor Rellon orders the recall of RPT (Real Property Tax) and the clamor of tricycle drivers on MTOP (Motorized Tricycle Operator Permit) renewal after 3 years.

Rellon strongly orders the stoppage of Land Auction of the previous administration as he sees it discriminatory and disadvantageous to his constituents.

With the rising population of the city due to immigration, the Mayor strengthens the housing program to cater the shelter needs of the less fortunate.

Rellon is firm on the representation of Indigenous People (IP) in the Sanggunian and shall take oath on August 01 under the watch of City Councilor (IP ex-officio) Datu Rudy Onlos.

Mayor Rellon is raising the burial assistance of war veterans from 3 Thousand to 10 Thousand and for Senior Citizens from 3 Thousand to 5 Thousand.

He will formally appoint the head of Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) as Mayor Rellon dignified them by providing a conducive office for oldies in Sangguniang Panlungsod Building of Tagum.

As a strong advocate of education, Mayor Rellon desires to continue the city’s scholarship on CESPRO (College Education Scholarship Program) and CIVOTESPRO (City Vocational Technical Education Scholarship Program).

As Doctor of Public Administration, Mayor Rellon redirects the City Agriculture’s Office (CAGRO) to its proper function and will now primarily focus on food security. The City’s Environment Natural Resources Office (CENRO) shall take charge of landscaping and sanitation on street sweeping, garbage disposal, and dumpsite management.

Mayor Rellon will continue the new slaughterhouse project and he is determined to continue the New City Hall only after COA (Commission on Audit) advice base on their findings and evaluation.

Recently, as strongly admonished by COA, the New City Hall is being cordoned under pending investigation with regard to the financial status of Tagum’s ailing icon. (Cromwell Bonghanoy, CIO Tagum)

Regional summit on disaster risk reduction and mgt. set for LGU execs

DAVAO CITY, July 29 – A regional summit on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management for Local Chief Executives in the region will be conducted on July 30-31, 2013 at the Bulwagan ng Lalawigan, Provincial Capitol, Tagum City, Davao del Norte.

This is in compliance to the President’s directive to conduct the National DRRM Summit for all LCEs all over the country. The same shall also be a venue to launch the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan of region XI.

Participants of the summit shall include all Provincial Governors and City and Municipal Mayors of all LGUs in the region, including Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers, Planning Officers and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council members and partners.

The two-day summit shall have the following priority areas of concern that will be tackled: State of DRRM in the Philippines, Climate Change Adaptation, Financing and Allocation of DRRM, Utilization of DRRM Funds, Reviewing the LCEs Roles and Responsibilities in DRRM and DRRM Tools of the four stages of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (Prevention and Mitigation, Preparedness, Response and Rehabilitation and Recovery) to be presented by DOST-PAGASA.

At the same time, selected LGUs who were affected by Typhoon Pablo last December 2012 shall present their respective DRRM Learning Experiences and Challenges.

These are the provinces of Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley, Municipality of Baganga in Davao Oriental and Barangay Andap, New Bataan, ComVal Province. (MIO-Sta. Cruz/Julius Paner)

Trade official makes pitch for Mindanao during Phil Icon

DAVAO CITY– Trade and Industry Undersecretary Ponciano C. Manalo, Jr. has called on investors to pour in their resources in Mindanao for it offers vast opportunities.

           

Manalo, who is handling the Trade and Investment Promotions Group (TIPG) of the department, said during his recent visit in the city for the 1st Philippine Investment Conference (Phil iCon) that Mindanao offers vast potentials for investments.

            

Manalo added that Mindanao is a top investment priority for agriculture, agro-industrial food processing, manufacturing, and tourism.

            

“As the saying goes, agriculture and Mindanao go together like horse and carriage,” he said.

            

Manalo identified a few examples of how the island-region can leverage agriculture into agro-industrial opportunities.

            

He said tropical fruits like coconut, mangosteen, banana, pineapple, and papaya are global favourites.

            

Per data gathered by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Philippines ranked third among the biggest coconut-producing countries, next to Indonesia and India. Eight of the top 10 producing coconuts in the country are in Mindanao.                     

Meanwhile, the country was rated first in global share production of copra while coco coir and coco peat are considered traditional export staples.

            

“Today, beyond traditional coconut exports, value-added products such as desiccated coconut, virgin coconut oil, and now coconut water have started to show significant year-on-year growth. Indeed, coconut has re-emerged as the tree of life,” he said.

           

Harping further on the enormous potential of coconut, the trade official said the coconut derivatives have now become sought-after ingredients even in high-end cosmetics while the coconut milk and water have been gaining popularity as a healthy beverage in the world market.

            

Apart from coconut, Manalo said, carrageenan is also another investment opportunity that can be considered especially that it is farmable in the island-region.

            

In 2011, the country was the world’s top carrageenan producer in terms of production capacity, at 36, 630 metric tons per annum accounting for 40.7 percent of total world production capacity.

            

“We are the world’s largest exporter of carrageenan, a US$5 billion global market, and as demand for food, organic as well as processed, increases, we are identifying this is a definite for investment opportunity,” he said.

            

Manalo said the list for agro-industrial opportunities is long, thus, more are still in store for Mindanao apart from coconut and carrageenan.

            

“Last month (May), our Trade Office in Germany, through our Commercial Attaché, participated in the international Private Label Manufacturing Association’s Conference in Amsterdam. Coming out of the conference, we are excited at the great potential for developing this sector as product differentiator for Philippine exporters,” he said.

            

Manalo said the conference on Private Label Manufacturing opens doors for huge market potentials in China, the US, and France. These contract manufacturing prospects are vast for tuna, salmon, and processed fruits and vegetables. (DTI-11/JenMendoza)

Tagum Mayor vows to finish city hall built by previous administration

TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, July 29—Mayor Allan L. Rellon is determined to finish the construction of this city’s iconic new city hall during his term, stressing that it’s high time that the said building should now serve its main purpose.

“I’m doing my best to preserve the 231 million pesos,” said the local chief executive, referring to the amount of money secured by the local government through a loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines.

Expressing confidence that the money would ensure the city hall’s completion, Mayor Rellon said this is among his administration’s priorities since the general Tagumeño populace and even those outside the region is eagerly awaiting for its completion.

“Kayang tapusin (It can be completed), and we are determined to finish it because I know the city hall does not only represent Tagum City but it also represents the entire region and even the entire Mindanao,” the mayor told architect-members of the (UAP) United Architects of the Philippines-North Davao Chapter during their 3rd Induction of Officers and New Members of UAP Davao Chapter led by its President Architect Benjamin K. Pangalinan, Jr. last July 25, 2013 in Miko’s Brew.

True to his advocacy on consultative and participatory governance, Mayor Rellon asked for support for the Region XI-based architects in guiding his administration to matters related to their field.

“I do believe that your sector will contribute a lot to our city in our quest for continuing development.”

As of press time, the new city hall is being cordoned to give way to the Commission on Audit (COA) which is currently assessing the said building, as well as auditing the multi-million peso funds used for its construction.

Mayor Rellon said this is a welcome development so he will be guided in his future course of action through recommendations from COA regarding the completion of the said building. 

Based on the estimates from the project manager City Architect Julius Imboy, the building is now 70% completed. (By Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum)

Military welcomes top rebel's capture

EASTERN MINDANAO COMMAND, Camp Panacan, Davao City, July 29 (PIA) The military welcomed the capture of one of the alleged top rebel leaders in country by the authorities in a joint operation at the old terminal at Barangay Zone 3, Digos City, Davao del Sur early morning Sunday (July 28).

Lt. General Ricardo Rainier Cruz, commander of the EastMinCom assured Maria Loyda Tuzo Mapatoc will be treated well under custody and will be accorded fair trial.

He said the 39th Infantry Battalion under 1002nd Brigade, 10th ID is providing the requirements of Magpatoc while the Davao del Sur Police Provincial Office through its Children and Women’s desk is assisting her needs while under custody.

Cruz said the Digos City Police Office is also preparing the documents for the filing of formal charges against her.

“This is how our justice system works. Magpatoc as the alleged over-all leader of FSMR  and previously with NEMRC could be held liable under RA 9851 or Crimes against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and other crimes against humanity under provisions on the Responsibility of the Superior of a non-state insurgent organization on all the atrocities/violations committed,” he said.

Magpatoc carries a bounty of P500,000 for her arrest based on the posters sent to police stations, and government checkpoints on wanted persons nationwide.

Captain Severino David, deputy commander and spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Eastern Mindanao said Maria Loyda Tuzo Magpatoc alias Gwen is  the alleged front secretary of the Far South Mindanao Regional (FSMR) Committee of the rebel movement.

He said Magpatoc is implicated in a series of criminal activities like murder, extortion and kidnapping in the areas of SocSarGen and parts of Davao del Sur, North Cotabato and  Columbio, Sultan Kudarat.

David said Magpatoc was arrested by virtue of the several arrest warrants for cases ranging from murder, robbery, homicide and damage to property.

He said based on gathered information that Magpatoc also became the Front Secretary of North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) early 2000, onwards which also covers the areas of Surigao and Agusan.

David said Magpatoc is also allegedly a member Executive Committee of Komisyon Mindanao or Mindanao Commission, the main party organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines in Mindanao.

“The arrest of Magpatoc is the result not only of the continuous intelligence operations from the various law enforcement agencies but also from the reports of the communities to the 10th Infantry Division’s (10th ID) Peace and Development Teams under Major General Ariel B Bernardo,” he said. (PIA XI-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

Battalion chiefs relates success of peace and development in DavOr

MATI CITY, Davao Oriental, July 29--- Military commanders based in the Province of Davao Oriental bared on Thursday, July 25 the secrets behind the success of the peace and development efforts initiated here by the Philippine Army in tandem with the Provincial Government during the Battalion Commander’s Symposium at Panacan, Davao City, where Battalion Commanders from the 4th and 10th Infantry Divisions and other Operation Control Units of the Eastern Mindanao Command have convened.

Lt. Col. Krishnamurti Mortela, Battalion Commander of the 67th IB operating in the province’s first district and Lt. Col. Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., Battalion Commander of the 28th IB taking charge of the second district, concurred that the synergistic relationship between the Philippine Army and the local government was key in achieving sustainable peace the province now enjoys especially in the rural areas formerly flagged as conflict hotspots.

LTC Mortela noted that under the Philippine Army’s Integrated Community Public Safety System, the military, civilians and police components have merged and worked together. This strategy, he stated, helped in fostering peace and even aid in opening businesses and livelihood opportunities, which provided additional income for the residents in these far-flung areas.

“Peace can be achieved by winning the hearts and minds of the people through immersing in the communities and by taking the lead on livelihood projects,” Mortela said, stressing that the government should eye on the most vulnerable population groups that include farmers, peasants, and the youth.

Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, who was invited as guest speaker to provide insights of the province’s best practices in peace and development divulged that providing the basic needs of the community is imperative in sustaining lasting peace, emphasizing the importance of making the government’s presence and services felt. “I am convinced more than ever that winning peace is just winning the hearts of the people and a simple way of winning the hearts is by being sensitive and responsive to what matters most to them,” she said.

During the session, LTC Mortela divulged that a Barangay Health Station will soon be constructed in a remote village in the first district along with other infrastructure projects. He also said that he was able to source out funds from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) who earmarked 250,000 pesos for livelihood trainings, and has also submitted a 450,000 pesos project proposal for native chicken production in Boston town.

Mortela further urged his fellow military officials to tap assistance from other non-government organizations, both national and international to initiate development projects in the communities since the government’s resources are limited.

LTC Lorenzo of the 28th IB said that the provision of transportation services, manpower assistance to projects, among others were also crucial in maintaining the good image of the army and gives the people confidence on the armed forces presence in their communities, which is to provide aid and security.

Meanwhile, Governor Malanyaon vowed her continued all out support to the peace and development efforts of the Philippine Army. She underscored that the funds allocated for peace and order must be appropriately spent as to how it is intended to be used—a challenge that she gave to the chief executives in her province as to how they would spend their peace and order funds.

During the discussion, Gov. Malanyaon said that the role of the military is to identify the problems in the community and to recommend solutions, while the local government unit defines the projects deemed needed in a certain community.

As the Philippine Army is imminently handing over their area of operation to the LGU’s, both commanders vowed to retain troops stationed at the area of operation and in the boundaries as they have  committed to sustain the peace and prevent insurgencies to permeate the borders.

LTC Mortela noted the significance of sustaining the peace achieved. “If this is not being sustained, it would just die a ‘natural death’,” he said.

The Battalion Commander’s Symposium is a yearly program of the Philippine Army to update its Battalion Commanders on the current policies and thrust. The symposium was also a venue where the participants had the opportunity to discuss critical issues and strategies as well as best practices in peace and development.

Plenary sessions on each of these topics were led by experts in the field, including Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon who shared her province’s best practices on the Provincial Government and Philippine Army collaboration.  (Karen Lou Deloso, PIO Davao Oriental)

GK houses open a brighter outlook for Pablo-hit families

COMPOSTELA VALLEY, July 29 (PIA):  Couple Jhonrey and Ailyn Isang used to stay  at Monkayo Municipal Gymnasium after super Typhoon Pablo caused massive flood that swept their house away in December last year.

Now they are rebuilding their lives with new hope for a much brighter future for their five-year old son, four-year-old daughter and two-week-old baby at Kariyawan Uswag GK Village in Monkayo, Compostela Valley.

Jhonrey begged off recalling how life had been after Typhoon Pablo and before his stay with his family at the GK Village.  He’d only like to look forward to spending their lives at the GK Village, leaving behind the wrought that typhoon Pablo had done to their homes, to his family’s life, and to the lives of countless others who suffered the same fate with him.

The family of Jhonrey Isang was one of  the 50 beneficiaries of the Gawad Kalinga  (GK) housing units which construction was funded P5-million by Malaysian Berjaya Group of Companies Philippines.        

Berjaya separately funded another 50 housing units  of the same amount, in the municipality of Compostela (Compostela Valley).   Same with that in Monkayo,  those were also built through Gawad Kalinga volunteer work tied up with Uswag Comval community work initiative of the provincial government.        

The Kariyawan Uswag GK Village now takes after the name of Berjaya  and renamed into Kariyawan Usway GK Village in honor of the sponsor which sent its country director Paul Soo to join GK founder Antonio “Tony” Meloto and GK Executive Director Jose Luis Oquinena in personally turning over the completely-built housing units to Compostela Valley Gov. Arturo Uy .

In his message, Berjaya Kariyawan Usway GK Kapit-bahayan President  Joreniel Elmedo profusely thanked GK and Berjaya for promptly responding to the need for houses of typhoon-hit families especially those who completely lost their houses.

“We were asking ourselves then, where can we now stay?  But thanks to Berjaya for these houses,”  he said in vernacular as  he rallied his fellow GK housing beneficiaries to take good care of the units  and to harmonious live with others in the GK community.

Aside from encouraging GK neighbors to follow community rules built on respect, harmony and rule of law,  Elmedo asked them to serve as vanguards of environment protection.

Meloto  envisioned the GK Villages to  become a place imbibed with an essence of “Forbes Park” with vegetable gardens on the sides and trees growing in the surrounding area.

Meloto was hoping the GK neighborhood to live peacefully with “no addicts”, “no gambling” with household members living in harmony among themselves and with their neighbors. He was also looking forward to see GK  families engaging in productive livelihood.    

On the other, Soo told GK neighbors of his company’s  long term support for them saying “we are here to become your partner.”

More than just looking at  the accomplished GK houses funded by Berjaya, Soo confessed feeling glad of interacting with GK neighborhood.  He also expressed interest to help GK beneficiaries engage in livelihood “in whatever means the LGU would want us to.”  (PIA XI/Jeanevive Duron-Abangan)

Anti-Trafficking advocacy campaign launched

DAVAO City  -The Advocacy Committee of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) XI Network launched Tuesday the 2013 Advocacy Campaign Against Human Trafficking at the NCCC Mall Atrium.

The Anti-Trafficking in Person (TIP) campaign materials include AVP, posters, stickers and tarpaulins which were also handed over to partner agencies, mall representatives, taxi companies and schools for dissemination.

Following the campaign launch was the Signing of the Pledge of Commitment by all member agencies and stakeholders.

The Council was created in November 2003 under the mandate of RA 9208 and RA 9262. It is a concrete response to the international protocol of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women or CEDAW, the International Human Rights Law, the Humanitarian Law and other human rights instrumentalities.

It is chaired by the Department of Justice with member agencies such as DSWD, DOJ, DILG, DEPED, DOH, DFA, DOLE OWWA, PPA, ATO, PNP, CIDG, NBI, BI, Visayan Forum, Commission of Overseas Workers, IGDD and CSSDO.          

In his keynote address, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte said poverty is the fundamental reason why human trafficking exists. He said it is very odious. The people’s travails and lamentations prevail because there is not much opportunity for money to go around, he said.

Targeting the human traffickers, he emphasized, “Hindi ko talaga kayo palulusutin. Galit ako sa droga, galit ako sa recruiters, galit ako sa kidnappers (I will never allow you to get away with it. I am angry at drugs, I am angry at recruiters, I am angry at kidnappers).” I will always protect people, he stressed.

IACAT XI Network Chair and Regional Prosecutor Antonio B. Arellano also cited poverty as the root cause of human trafficking. He said as long as poverty exists, there will always be persons who will be vulnerable to illegal recruitment.

Director Priscilla N. Razon of DSWD presented the initial gains of the Council such as  increased filed cases in court with 6 convicted, increased/maximized participation of member agencies, heightened awareness on Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, strengthened collaboration and cooperation between and among IACAT XI Network member agencies, availment of complete package of services [one-stop shop] of TIP Victim-Survivors, and increased recovery and reintegration of TIP victim-survivors.

Earlier, the Council signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte, Panabo City Mayor Jose Silvosa Sr. and Davao Del Norte Gov. Rodolfo P. Del Rosario, to respond to the growing concerns against possible incidence of trafficking in persons in their locality.

A MOA was also inked between the Council and Davao Oriental Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon and Compostela Valley Gov. Arturo T. Uy, to replicate the IACAT XI Network in the two provinces.

DILG Director Francisco C. Jose said there is a need to advocate and educate the people down to the barangay level. “We have a long way to go. We invite all, the schools, barangays, to join this campaign and saturate our communities with information against human trafficking. Let’s all work together to end human trafficking.” (DSWD/Carmela Cadigal-Duron)