Tagum gears to become business-friendly city

By: Tagum City Information Office

CITY OF TAGUM, DAVAO DEL NORTE—Mayor Allan L. Rellon last week bared his administration’s ultimate goal of making this city a premier business hub that is friendly to businessmen and investors so as to provide more jobs for Tagumeños.

The local chief executive shared this thought in the sidelines of the blessing and inauguration of the newest Toyota Store in the Philippines, which is located along National Highway, Barangay Canocotan, this city, last December 11, 2013.

Mayor Rellon said it’s important for the local government to package the city as a good place for business, citing it would flourish the economic activity and would drum up the employment opportunities for Tagumeños.

The 6th City Council under the leadership of Vice Mayor Geterito Gementiza is currently working on the City Investment Code that will give leeway for potential investors such as tax holiday and tax incentives, among others.

Infrastructure development will also be prioritized by the local government so as to complement its objective of a viable city for business.

On the other hand, Mr. Michinobu Sugata, the president of Toyota Motor Philippines, said they see Tagum as one of the emerging cities to do business with, stating its prime location as a crossroad in the northern part of the Davao Region.

Toyota Tagum is a world-class full dealership facility that will cater the needs of Toyota owners in Northern Mindanao and is actually the third facility to rise in Mindanao, following the stores in Davao and General Santos City.

As of press time, big investments are already pouring in the city such as the one-billion peso international port in Madaum that is expected to generate 500 jobs by next year as construction begins.

Both Robinsons and SM Malls have also showed their interest in investing in Tagum.  (Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum)

OIC backs implementation of GPH-MILF framework deal

Conakry, Guinea – The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressed its support to the full implementation of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and called for the integration of peace gains achieved in the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

In a resolution adopted during the 40th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers held on December 9 to 11 here, the body urged the OIC Secretary General “to exert his efforts to find common grounds between the Parties to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the 1996 Agreement on the implementation of the 1976 Peace Agreement and develop a mechanism to ensure that the gains of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement on the implementation of the 1976 Peace Agreement are preserved and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and its Annexes are fully implemented with the end goal of integrating the gains achieved in these peace agreements in the Bangsamoro Basic Law.”  

Signed by the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in October 2012, the FAB serves as the blueprint for the establishment of the Bangsamoro political entity that will replace the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The Bangsamoro Basic Law, once ratified, will enable the entrenchment of the new region.

The OIC also recognized “the peace efforts between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front for reaching a comprehensive agreement that would help improvement of the situation of Muslims in Mindanao region” and hoped that the FAB “would be concluded in line with 1976 Tripoli Peace Agreement.”

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Rafael Seguis, Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Undersecretary Jose Lorena, Office of the Executive Secretary Undersecretary Nabil Tan, Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria Alex Lamadrid, and Atty. Zoilo A. Velasco of DFA represented the Philippine government in the OIC meeting.

Seguis remarked that based on the OIC resolution, “it seems that the organization is accepting the FAB as the framework or mechanism for convergence of the two peace tracks with the MNLF and the MILF.”

The OIC sits as an observer in the GPH-MILF peace negotiations. It also facilitates the Tripartite Implementation Review of the 1996 FPA between the government and the MNLF.

“The OIC apparently is accepting already the convergence framework being proposed by the GPH,” Seguis added.

Meanwhile, he confirmed that MNLF faction chair Nur Misuari, who has a standing warrant of arrest in the Philippines, “was not present in the meeting and there was no MNLF delegation that showed up.”

 Next tripartite meet

Seguis, who had an opportunity to deliver a statement at the plenary, appealed to the OIC members to support the continuation of the 5th Tripartite Implementation Review meeting. The said meeting, which was supposed to be held last Sept. 16, was postponed upon the request of Misuari “due to the incident in Zamboanga City.”

“The Government is committed to pursue the implementation of the substantive agreements reached by the parties during the Tripartite Implementation Review,” he said adding that the FAB, which was signed last year, envisions a future Bangsamoro region that is “neither exclusive to the MNLF nor the MILF.”

The holding of the next tripartite meeting was supported by the OIC who, in its statement, called on its Secretary General and the Peace Committee for Southern Philippines (PCSP) to hold another session of the tripartite meeting to overcome “pending major difficulties.”

New GPH-MILF milestone

Seguis also conveyed to the OIC the recent milestone in the Philippine peace process with the signing of the GPH-MILF power-sharing agreement.

“The Annex on Power-Sharing recently signed already opens up the possibility of converging the achievements of both GPH-MNLF and GPH-MILF peace processes, setting a path for a coordinated implementation of both peace agreements for the benefit of the entire Bangsamoro,” he stated.

Quoting from the last provision of the annex, he pointed out that it calls on the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) to “undertake an inventory of the powers and consider the proposed recommendations from the review process of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement for possible inclusion in to the Bangsamoro Basic Law…”

The GPH and the MILF will hold their next round of talks in January to finalize the remaining annex on normalization and an addendum on the Bangsamoro waters. The BTC for its part has been conducting consultations with various stakeholders of the Bangsamoro in drafting the Basic Law. 

“The opportunity for a genuine and comprehensive peace in Mindanao is just within arm’s reach. We ask OIC’s help in realizing this, mindful of the new realities and of no less than the best interest of the entire Bangsamoro people,” said Seguis. (OPAPP)

Conakry, Guinea – The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressed its support to the full implementation of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and called for the integration of peace gains achieved in the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

In a resolution adopted during the 40th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers held on December 9 to 11 here, the body urged the OIC Secretary General “to exert his efforts to find common grounds between the Parties to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the 1996 Agreement on the implementation of the 1976 Peace Agreement and develop a mechanism to ensure that the gains of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement on the implementation of the 1976 Peace Agreement are preserved and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and its Annexes are fully implemented with the end goal of integrating the gains achieved in these peace agreements in the Bangsamoro Basic Law.”  

Signed by the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in October 2012, the FAB serves as the blueprint for the establishment of the Bangsamoro political entity that will replace the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The Bangsamoro Basic Law, once ratified, will enable the entrenchment of the new region.

The OIC also recognized “the peace efforts between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front for reaching a comprehensive agreement that would help improvement of the situation of Muslims in Mindanao region” and hoped that the FAB “would be concluded in line with 1976 Tripoli Peace Agreement.”

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Rafael Seguis, Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Undersecretary Jose Lorena, Office of the Executive Secretary Undersecretary Nabil Tan, Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria Alex Lamadrid, and Atty. Zoilo A. Velasco of DFA represented the Philippine government in the OIC meeting.

Seguis remarked that based on the OIC resolution, “it seems that the organization is accepting the FAB as the framework or mechanism for convergence of the two peace tracks with the MNLF and the MILF.”

The OIC sits as an observer in the GPH-MILF peace negotiations. It also facilitates the Tripartite Implementation Review of the 1996 FPA between the government and the MNLF.

“The OIC apparently is accepting already the convergence framework being proposed by the GPH,” Seguis added.

Meanwhile, he confirmed that MNLF faction chair Nur Misuari, who has a standing warrant of arrest in the Philippines, “was not present in the meeting and there was no MNLF delegation that showed up.”

 Next tripartite meet

Seguis, who had an opportunity to deliver a statement at the plenary, appealed to the OIC members to support the continuation of the 5th Tripartite Implementation Review meeting. The said meeting, which was supposed to be held last Sept. 16, was postponed upon the request of Misuari “due to the incident in Zamboanga City.”

“The Government is committed to pursue the implementation of the substantive agreements reached by the parties during the Tripartite Implementation Review,” he said adding that the FAB, which was signed last year, envisions a future Bangsamoro region that is “neither exclusive to the MNLF nor the MILF.”

The holding of the next tripartite meeting was supported by the OIC who, in its statement, called on its Secretary General and the Peace Committee for Southern Philippines (PCSP) to hold another session of the tripartite meeting to overcome “pending major difficulties.”

New GPH-MILF milestone

Seguis also conveyed to the OIC the recent milestone in the Philippine peace process with the signing of the GPH-MILF power-sharing agreement.

“The Annex on Power-Sharing recently signed already opens up the possibility of converging the achievements of both GPH-MNLF and GPH-MILF peace processes, setting a path for a coordinated implementation of both peace agreements for the benefit of the entire Bangsamoro,” he stated.

Quoting from the last provision of the annex, he pointed out that it calls on the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) to “undertake an inventory of the powers and consider the proposed recommendations from the review process of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement for possible inclusion in to the Bangsamoro Basic Law…”

The GPH and the MILF will hold their next round of talks in January to finalize the remaining annex on normalization and an addendum on the Bangsamoro waters. The BTC for its part has been conducting consultations with various stakeholders of the Bangsamoro in drafting the Basic Law. 

“The opportunity for a genuine and comprehensive peace in Mindanao is just within arm’s reach. We ask OIC’s help in realizing this, mindful of the new realities and of no less than the best interest of the entire Bangsamoro people,” said Seguis. (OPAPP)

Davao Sur People Commits to Sustain Army’s Peace and Development Program

DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur – The people of Davao del Sur has committed this Thursday morning to sustain the gains of the Army’s Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP) after its successful province-wide implementation.

The Davao del Sur Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC), composed of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division and the Provincial Police, have declared Davao del Sur liberated from the influence of the insurgent New People’s Army.  The program, which started in October 2008, led to the surrender of 18 NPA regulars, four party members and 10 militias and withdrawal of allegiance to the NPA of some 2,280 members of the NPA underground mass organizations.

“This progress was achieved due to the united efforts of all people in the province with the unwavering support from the local government,” said Eldie Aguirre, President of the Tri-Media Association of Davao del Sur. 

Aguirre added that he felt confident with the province’s Army and Police as they are focused in people-centered initiatives directed to protect the people from atrocities committed by the NPA.

Currently on the sustainment and development phase, the PDOP is being supported by the Provincial Government in implementing 123 sustainable livelihood programs spread across conflict-affected areas.  Through the Needs Assessment Survey (NAS) conducted by the Army’s Peace and Development Teams, the province became a recipient of five Serbisyo Caravans of the Association of Regional Executives of National Agencies (ARENA) XI with tens of thousands of beneficiaries, the highest among all provinces in the region.

“Today’s Joint Area Clearing Completion Ceremony only signified that the Army will further strengthen its efforts in ensuring that peace and security within the province is fostered and sustained.  With the successful implementation of the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan in Davao del Sur, the Army will continuously engage all stakeholders in opening up space for a convergent and collaborative effort in attaining our common goal of a just and lasting peace and sustainable development in this province,” said Lieutenant General Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command.

During the ceremony, peace and development partners of the Army were recognized for their invaluable contribution to the success of the PDOP.  Representatives from the religious, academe, media and civil society sector including the program’s beneficiaries talked about their experience with the Army’s program, the impact it brought to the lives of the people and to the former NPA rebels, and their commitment to sustain the gains of PDOP.

Father Sonny Villahermosa of the Diocese of Digos and speaking in behalf of the religious sector said that back in 2012, he was surprised to see a group of b’laan leaders and Gagmay Kristohanong Katilingban (GKK) or Basic Christian Community who went to Malita and returned happy to the hinterlands.  They were part of the Army’s Peace Building Seminar who received livelihood assistance.

“I commend our military and the LGU for addressing the needs of the people.  The religious people is one in our peace effort and always in solidarity with the Army and the LGU in our pursuit for the peace and development initiatives in the province,” added Father Villahermosa.

“The peace education is mandated and integrated in all schools’ curriculum and we are grateful of our partnership with the Army in teaching our future leaders the value of peace.  We have seen how the Army is accepted by the students and we look forward for more years of partnership in spreading the culture of peace,” added Tessie Miralles, Assistant Vice President of University of Mindanao Digos Campus and speaking in behalf of the academe sector.

“The journey to peace is long and most rewarding.  It is not simple and quite high.  But with the full commitment and the Bayanihan effort of the Province together with its people and all stakeholders, we can sustain the gains of PDOP,” said Governor Claude Bautista.

DavNor 4H Club to hold fun-run for Yolanda victims

TAGUM CITY, Davao del  Norte, Dec. 16 (PIA)--- The Davao del Norte chapter of 4H Club initiates a fun-run to help  club members who have become Typhoon Yolanda victims.

Dubbed as DavNor Run 4Hers’ Race,  the fun-run is slated on Nov. 22 to start at 5:00 a.m. Tagum  City New City Hall.

The activity is organized by the provincial government of Davao del Norte, city government of Tagum, the Provincial Sports Office, Tagum Runners Club and the Volunteer Leaders ‘s Association of the Philippines Davao del Norte Chapter which supervises the 4H Club.

Volunteer Leaders Association Davao del Norte Chapter President Cenen Banal said proceeds of the fun-run will go to the  members of Tacloban.

Registration to the fun-run requires participants to pay P300 inclusive of a singlet, racing bib, finishers certificate and light breakfast.

Banal directs interested participant  to register at Tagum City Hall,  Gaisano Mall of Tagum, Gaisano Grand Mall of Tagum, NCCC Mall of Tagum, at the Provincial Sports Office and at the Provincial Planning and Development Office. (Jean D. Abangan, PIA)

Panabo LGU Conducts Human Trafficking Symposium For Students

PANABO CITY, Davao del Norte, Dec. 16 – The Local Government Unit through theSocial Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has organized an awareness symposium on Human Trafficking: Alamin at Sugpuin last December 12, 2013 at the Davao del Norte State College.

DSWD’s focal person on child labor and child trafficking Miss Lorna D. Oñate said that students should understand the reality of human trafficking because it will help them become aware about this kind of activity. She added that the symposium will help students spread information to others who are ignorant about human trafficking.

During the symposium, both high school and college students were educated about the overview on human trafficking and its punishments under the RA 9208 Anti Trafficking in Persons Act. They also learned how the government can help victims through legal actions and medical aid.

Charize Castrence from the DNSC Laboratory School said “The symposium helped me become aware about this kind of activity. At least I know what to do if this happens in my community”.

Furthermore, Lorna Oñate emphasized that the indigenous and below educated individuals especially in Mindanao and the Visayas are the most vulnerable victims of human trafficking.

The most recent report was on July 2013 when five young girls were rescued from their recruiter who took them from their hometown in Bukidnon and kept them for three months in Sto. Tomas.

The City Social Welfare and Development Office encourage everyone to report immediately to the nearest police station about any human trafficking activity within the city or in any area.  (By Michael Angelo A. Resueño, CIO Panabo)

Davao Oriental commemorates Pablo onslaught

DAVAO ORIENTAL, December  16 --- One year after the onslaught of Super Typhoon Pablo, residents of the three hard-hit towns rallied with provincial government on Wednesday, Dec.4 in marking the first anniversary of the disaster, which according to the provincial government, has defined Davao Oriental as a province.

While typhoon Pablo is now being regarded as a mere part of the province’s history, the provincial government exalts the acts of heroism and generosity of the many people who helped in recovery and rehabilitation efforts.

“One year seemed too short to regain some semblance of normalcy and healing from our Pablo experience,   yet, we have done and achieved so much.  But all these would not have been possible without the unstinting and dedicated support of our partner agencies, both national and international,   government and private,” Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon told an audience of thousands in the three towns still recovering from the devastating storm.

She lauded the quick response of the Philippine Army, DSWD, together with humanitarian organizations in working with the provincial government in the efficient delivery of relief goods to the affected areas up to the remotest villages.

Governor Malanyaon, during the commemoration service, listed several steps the provincial government has taken to expedite the province’s recovery and rehabilitation.

She said that the smooth flow of the response to typhoon Pablo was made possible through the early mobilization of emergency relief operations as well as the crafting of the province’s comprehensive rehabilitation and development framework plan dubbed as the Building Back Better Agenda, which eventually became the basis of business proposals and rehabilitation projects, including the provision of permanent shelters.

At the affected towns, continuous constructions of permanent shelters have been underway, to complete initially more than 7,000 shelters committed by the national government. To date, there are about a thousand shelter homes which will soon be turned over to their respective beneficiaries, while families with partially damaged homes have received Emergency Cash Assistance (ESA) ranging from P7, 000- P10, 000, depending on the extent of damage.

Aside from the national government, Gov. Malanyaon thanked the several foundations and charitable institutions who extended help to provide permanent homes for homeless typhoon victims, which include PLDT-Smart Foundation under MVP Group of Companies, Gawad Kalinga, and Tan Yan Kee Foundation. Other shelter donors include Senator Cynthia Villar and Sen. Ralph Recto who will also put up shelter units in resettlement sites in Cateel which are currently undergoing land development.

Debris Management, on the other hand was also an outstanding success. Aside from clearing of the debris through cash and food for work programs, projects on converting debris to livelihood, through production of other products with commercial value, were implemented. These include driftwood processing, rosary–making out of coco-beads, carpentry workshop and material recovery facility and fiber-board processing facility.

Meanwhile, aside from the short-term livelihood already implemented in the areas through the assistance of the Department of Agriculture, Governor Malanyaon also bared the forthcoming industries that will soon be put up in the province, intended to revive the local industry and economy.

Through the industry networks and contacts established by the provincial government, several companies signified interest to invest and locate in Davao Oriental. These include the Indonesia-based Indofoods of the Salim Group of Companies and the Thailand-based Univanich Company, who are both interested to put up Palm Oil Plantation in the affected areas. Another investor, Design, Invest Develop (DID) Group of Companies, a Dutch-Caribbean giant conglomerate expressed their interest in investing in energy projects, sewerage and water treatment facility, solid-waste facility and tourism-related projects.

 “Our experience with Super typhoon Pablo is indeed a defining moment for Davao Oriental.    It has tried the extent of our courage,   undaunted spirit and resiliency as a people.   It has measured mankind’s capacity for goodness and generosity.   It has tested the foundation of our governance and leadership.   And, I am proud to say that we have stood up to the challenge as we joined hands with our supporters and partners and with the Almighty’s guidance and providence,” said Governor Malanyaon.

“We still have to continue with our rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts for the Pablo areas of Davao Oriental.   Our “Building-Back-Better” agenda is still a long way to go.  But having  gone through the birth pains of this year,  and having  put in place operational mechanisms,   we are  positive that we can  harness more resources and partners…  we can do more … and,  we can do better in the subsequent  years,” she added. (Karen Lou Deloso, PIO)

Davao Oriental bags 5th Regional Gawad Kalasag Award

DAVAO ORIENTAL, December 16 (PIA) —For the fifth consecutive year, the Province of Davao Oriental was conferred with the Gawad Kalasag Award for being the region’s Best Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

The prestigious accolade was handed over by the Office of Civil Defense Regional Director, Ret. BGen Loreto G. Rirao to no less than Davao Oriental’s chief executive Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon on Thursday, Dec. 12, during the OCD’s 15th Gawad Kalasag Awarding Ceremony at the Apo View Hotel in Davao City.

“This is a great honor for us to have our efforts of preparing for probable disaster and reducing potential risk acknowledged in the region,” said Gov. Malanyaon.

During her speech, she bared that behind the coveted award was the painstaking planning strategies and the sacrifices of people who responded to disasters, especially during the typhoon Pablo, which challenged Davao Oriental’s already established elite disaster response.

Gov. Malanyaon underscored the important role ‘preparedness’ has played for the fast and seamless disaster response. She recalled that days before typhoon Pablo, several teams from the province were deployed to conduct massive evacuation especially for those living in the hazard zones. While food packs were prepared ready for distribution, heavy machineries were also pre-positioned, anticipating slashing winds to topple electric posts and trees which may block roadways.

The province also leveraged on important structures that placed order and direction into its actions through mobilization of a Central Incident Command Post (CICP) at the provincial level, which served as the center for coordination, information and communication for all emergency relief operations, while counterpart Incident Command Posts (ICP) in the three municipalities were also established and mobilized to quickly reach far-flung barangays and sitios.

“Indeed, the Command Posts that were operationalized were instrumental in ensuring that timely and relevant information were gathered, urgent concerns were addressed, emergency reliefs were dispatched with exigency,   security and order were maintained”.

Climate Change Adaptation

Meanwhile, as part of the disaster mitigation strategies, climate change adaptation is also becoming a crucial area of concern for the province, especially now that is already part of the typhoon belt.

“We cannot control nature, but we can regulate the activities of our people and direct utilization of our resources so as to mitigate, if not control the possible disastrous effects of natural forces. This is through our preparedness plans,” she said.

As a result, the province in collaboration with partner agencies has agreed to integrate Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation (DRRCCA) in the Local Development Planning, which elicited the updating of the Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan that involved land use modification, data updating, and re-zonification.

And as its firm commitment, the province is helping municipal LGUs to chart out their respective Municipal Comprehensive Land Use Plan while mainstreaming Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation measures in their respective development plans.

Other projects that the provincial government is embarking on to restore the province’s environmental resources are mangrove rehabilitation, coastal cleanup, solid-waste management, dumpsite development and watershed rehabilitation.

Governor Malanyaon said that in retrospection with the province’s typhoon Pablo experience, from preparation to the emergency response to early recovery and now on its rehabilitation undertakings that it had honed the province to be doubly mindful for the things to be considered in crafting preparation strategies to meet the challenges of emergent extreme weather events such as super typhoon bringing havoc to localities in its path. <By Karen Lou Deloso, , PIO>

Davao hosts 1st Mindanao Organic Festival

DAVAO CITY, Dec. 16 (PIA) – The 1st Mindanao Organic Festival has gathered about 40 exhibitors from the various areas in Mindanao starting today (December 16) up to December 18 at Abreeza Mall to showcase organic foods and products.

The organic foods and products on display are coconut water, rice, coco-sugar, banana, vegetables, and other processed foods like peanut butter, banana chips, etc.

The People Collaborating for Environmental and Economic Management (PCEEM) has organized the festival which is anchored on the theme “Organic Farming: Healthy Environment and Healthy People.”

PCEEM said in a press release that the event was initiated “to remind all of us to take care essentially of our environment and address the insufficient supply of foods through the use of ‘Organic Farming’.”

“The immense devastation brought about by climate change such as floods, heavy rains and earthquakes made us realize that it is very essential for us to ponder on ways to bring back the health of our mother nature,” it added.

PCEEM urged the public to participate in the three-day event and “patronize our safe, healthy and environment-friendly products made in the various parts of Mindanao.”

The other activities to be featured simultaneously in the festival include Christmas décor Making, Organic Cooking and Beverage Making, Essay and Poem Making, Poster Making and Photography to be participated in by high school and college students from all over Mindanao. (PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon/PCEEM)

DC Councilor urges conversion of Speed limit E.O. into City Ordinance

DAVAO CITY, Dec 16 (PIA) A local legislator cited the need to convert the executive order setting the speed of all vehicles within the city limits to an ordinance to make the policy permanent.

City Councilor Leonardo Avila III, chair of the City Council Committee on Transportation said the Executive Order No. 39 of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte runs after reckless driving and not solely on the violation of the speed limit.

He said though the order can be enforced immediately, it still needs legislative action to make the policy permanent with the corresponding ordinance as its basis.

“We need to make the policy permanent just like the other novel legislations like the Smoking and Firecracker  Bans being imposed in the city,” Avila said.

He said the executive order needs one month before a thorough evaluation is done to determine its impact on the local economy.

He said the executive order on the speed limit draw mixed reactions from the motorists.

“Many motorist notice the slow pace of traffic within the city.  There are some who demand for more speed limit signs especially on the corresponding speed limit per route,” Avila said.

He said the motorists need information on the corresponding speed limit per road stretch which must be implemented immediately.

Avila underscored the need for signage every 500 meters of the city roads given that it is a highway requirement even internationally.

Mayor Rodrigo Duterte signed in October 29, Executive Order No. 39 Series of 2013 tempering the speed limit within the city limits as he invoked the interest of public safety and order.

Under the new executive order, all motorists must observe maximum allowable speed at 60 kilometers per hour only from Sirawan to Ulas Crossing, Lasang to Panacan, Calinan to Ulas Crossing, Carlos P. Garcia Highway-Macarthur Highway to Panacan; 40 kilometers per hour only from Ulas to the bridges of Generoso and Bolton, Panacan Crossing to J.P. Laurel Avenue-Alcantara Junction, Ma-a Road from the Diversion Highway to the MacArthur Highway; and 30 kilometers per hour from J.P. Laurel Avenue-Alcantara, Buhangin Crossing Milan, C.P. Garcia Highway-Bacaca and C.P. Garcia Highway -Angliongto Street to the bridges of Bolton and Generoso.

He said the existing traffic laws are no longer responsive to the current traffic situation in the city due to many factors as a result of urbanization.

Duterte stressed that Local Government Code of the Philippines grants local government units the power to regulate traffic on all streets and bridges within their territorial boundaries and to enact measures that will enhance the public health, safety, convenience, maintain peace and order and promote the general prosperity of its residents.

He said Executive Order No. 39 is still based on the precept of Section 35 of the Republic Act 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code of 1964 which states that a person driving a motor vehicle on the highway shall drive at a careful and prudent speed not greater nor less than, is reasonable and proper, having due regard for the traffic, width of the highway under the existing condition; and no person shall drive any motor vehicle upon a highway at such as speed that will endanger the life, limb and property of any person, nor at a speed greater than will permit him to bring the vehicle to a stop within the assured clear distance ahead.

Duterte ordered the Traffic Management Center, Traffic Group of the Davao City Police Office, Land Transportation Office 11 and the Highway Patrol Group assigned in the city as lead implementing agencies backed up by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board 11 and the Department of Public Works and Highways-Davao City. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

Peace and Development Outreach Program, cited as one of the growth factors in the development of Davao Region

DAVAO CITY, Dec 13 (PIA) The military’s Peace and Development Outreach Program has covered 70 percent of the total number of barangays throughout the region in its effort to reduce the impact of insurgency in the countryside.

Major General Ariel Bernardo, commander of the 10th Infantry Division said the PDOP has cleared 1,191 barangays throughout Davao Region with 181 more being attended to while 484 barangays remaining to get in touch with.

He said the objective is to ensure unhampered delivery of government services to the people given the normal peace and order condition even in far-flung barangays.

“Hopefully, we no longer consider peace and security situation as the one that impedes the development that we intend to realize in Davao Region,” Bernardo said.

Governor Corazon Malanyaon of Davao Oriental affirmed the impact of the PDOP in her province.

She recalled that since the PDOP was launched from 2010 to 2012 in Davao Oriental, the province was declared and affirmed as insurgency free.

Malanyaon underscored that peace in an important factor for the realization of development that benefits the people.

“Davao Oriental which was once a war-torn area, is now relatively peaceful because of the synergy of effort among local governments and the PDOP of the Philippine Army,” she said.

Two days ago, the military through the 10th Infantry Division handed over the peace and security responsibilities to the Davao del Sur Provincial Government, after declaring it insurgency free.

Bernardo and Malanyaon were among the development stakeholders convened at the SMX Convention Center to witness the launching of the Updated Davao Regional Development Plan 2014-2016, and its accompanying documents, the revalidated Regional Development investment program and the update Results Matrix.

Margarita Songco, deputy director general of the National Economic Development Authority delivered the keynote speech in behalf of Neda Sec. Arsenio Balisacan with the region’s local chief executives, key government agencies, civil society organizations, academe, business groups and the people.

Carrying the slogan “PRO Davao,” the  updated plan will chart Davao Region’s development until 2016 and will pave the way for attaining the region’s vision as the nation’s rising global frontier.

PRO Davao stands for productivity, resiliency, opportunities. . . Driving, accelerating ventures and accords onwards 2016. (PIA 11- Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

Regional NPA landmine factory discovered

 NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – 163 pieces of landmines were recovered by the government troops in a regional NPA landmine factory in Sitio Mampait, Brgy Kauswagan, Loreto, Agusan del Sur Wednesday (Dec. 11) afternoon. A generator set was also recovered. 

The residents of the said Barangay reported the site where the landmines were manufactured and kept by the NPA. “We do not want the NPA, they bring us more sufferings in our families here. We want a peaceful barangay for our families”.

A civilian said

It can be recalled that from 2010 up to this date, a total of 453 NPA landmines exploded where 128 people were killed, 325 wounded and destroyed many civilian properties and government facilities in Eastern Mindanao.

The recovered landmines can injure or kill thousands of civilian and can destroy a city by its devastating impact when detonated at the same time. The use of landmine is a violation of the provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian law (CARHRIHL).

Eastern Mindanao Command Commander Lt. General Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III commended the civilians for reporting the NPA landmine factory and locations of the landmines in their village. “This is the biggest NPA landmine factory discovered so far. Indeed, the timely recovery of NPA landmines by our troops saved lives of the public.

The NDF wants to talk peace with the government however they still continue to manufacture weapon of mass destruction. It is clear that the NDF are not really sincere about peace after all. Your AFP-PNP will continue to safeguard the people from NPA extortion, deception and intimidation”. Lt. Gen Cruz said. (Eastmincom)

DC malls joins forces for Davao Fun Sale

DAVAO CITY- Major shopping malls in Davao City have joined hands to take part in the first city-wide shopping frenzy in the country, the Davao Fun Sale.

Slated from March 14 to April 16, 2014, the big Davao Fun Sale is a city-wide sale which offers fantastic discounts, freebies and prizes. Participating shopping centers in the city include Abreeza-Ayala Mall, Gaisano Grand Mall, Gaisano Mall of Davao, Gaisano Mall of Toril, NCCC Mall, Robinson’s, SM City Davao and SM Lanang Premier.

“This is the Department of Tourism-XI’s response to the unprecedented growth in the retail industry of Davao City these past couple of years,.” Said Assistant Secretary Art Boncato of the DOT.

More than the dream of making the city number one when it comes to shopping and dining, this endeavour also aims to improve the image of Davao as a thriving destination for business and investment.” Boncato added.

Great deals will be offered by the participating malls per week during the Davao Fun Sale. March 16-23 will focus on health and beauty products, March 24-30 for electronics and gadgets shops, March 31- April 6 for home appliances and travel, April 7-16 for active lifestyle and fashion.

Aside from retail products the Davao City Tourism Operations is also inviting visitors during the city-wide sale to sample local cuisine in a food festival handled by the Restaurants Association of Davao Inc.  The activity aims to have 100 restaurants and food outlets throughout the duration of the sale.

To complement the Davao Fun Sale, airline company Cebu Pacific will have a special Davao hub seat sale before the year ends. With direct flights to Davao from Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, Puerto Princes and Dipolog- visitors from all over the country can easily experience the Big Davao Fun Sale thru Cebu Pacific.

The Big Davao Fun Sale is spearheaded by the participating malls, in cooperation with DOT-XI, the City Government of Davao and the Philippine Retailers Association. (PIA/RG Alama)

DOE warns public of illegal solicitation

Taguig City -- The Department of Energy (DOE) warns the public and energy stakeholders of unscrupulous individuals posing as Secretary Carlos Jericho L. Petilla and certain DOE employees soliciting money for supposed aid to typhoon Yolanda survivors and the rehabilitation in the calamity-stricken areas, as well as those taking advantage of the holiday season to fund occasions.

The DOE notes that government officials and employees are not allowed to solicit money in accordance with the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (Republic Act 6713).

With these occurrences, we encourage everyone to report any form of communication from these individuals, and verify the authenticity of these messages with the DOE through the Office of the Secretary’s official numbers: 840-2134 and 840-2008. (DOE)

DavSur opens Christmas celebration

DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur, Dec. 11 (PIA) – The official lighting of the giant Christmas tree and stars hanged on trees at the capitol grounds signified the opening salvo of the month-long Yuletide celebration in the province.

The evening atmosphere at the capitol compound when the lights are switched on could be described as wonderland where anyone would enjoy a walk and a breath of fresh air.

The opening of the Christmas celebration on December 5 was led by Governor Claude P. Bautista who was joined in by his family and the local officials of the province.

As part of the Yuletide season, Gov. Bautista also intends to prepare gift-giving activities for the disaster affected families particularly those who dwell in coastal areas.   

Another part of the celebration is the CapitOlympics which kicked off Monday with seven colors representing clustered offices.

From the entrance of the capitol grounds, provincial government employees marched all the way to the center area of the main capitol building where different yells were presented.

Competition of various games like basketball, volleyball, dart, tennis, chess, and badminton is scheduled on December 13.

All the games are part of the 1st Governor's Cup that started November 8, this year.

Marivic Hubac, the executive assistant of the governor, said the Christmas project is a gift by the provincial government for the people of Davao del Sur.

All preparations were initiated by the Benjamin Bautista Sr. Foundation through Lorna Bautista-Bandigan.

The governor believes that with this gesture, he can manifest his sincere commitment in shaping up Davao del Sur as a province of peace-loving people bestowed with abundant natural resources, good climate, vast agricultural lands, several tourist destinations, rich in marine life and cultural heritage. (LGU-DavSur/Nilda Aniñon)

Davao City sets Torotot festival

 DAVAO CITY- Sans firecrackers and pyrotechnics during New Year’s eve, the City Government of Davao in partnership with Smart Communications is organizing the first Torotot Festival.

Torotot which means toy horn in Filipino and is used for joyful occasions and celebrations will be centrepiece of the Davao-only event initiated by telecom giant Smart Communications.

Arnold Dellosa, regional sales manager –south Mindanao for Smart says that the Torotot Festival will be a unique and exhilarating spectacle of lights and sounds, where people armed with torotots will greet the New Year with fanfare and noise.

Guesting at Club 888 media forum at Marco Polo Davao (Dec. 11) Dellosa said that event will also be aiming for the Guinness World Record for number of toy horn blowers, the current record to beat is 6,900 in Japan, the organizers are expecting 10,000 people.

Due to Guinness World Record requirements they are looking for confined areas in downtown Davao which would be accessible to people. Dellosa said they are eyeing the car park at SM City Davao.

Aside from New Year’s revelry and horn blowing, there will be inter-barangay contests where the barangay with the largest torotot contingent will be receiving cash prizes, there are also awards for most creative torotots and inter-barangay dance contest. Davao-based performers will also be on hand to entertain the crowd.  

Davao City is one of the strictest local government unit in enforcing firecracker ban in the country. The city is well known for its tranquillity during New Year’s eve in contrast to other localities in the country where residents celebrate with firecrackers and pyrotechnics. (PIA/RG Alama)

Mindanao Film Fest opens with Gerry de Leon film

DAVAO CITY- “The Moises Padilla Story.” A 1961 film by celebrated Filipino film director Gerardo de Leon will open the 9th Mindanao Film Festival today (Dec. 4) Gaisano Mall Cinema 6 at around 8 p.m.

The film which stars then matinee idol Leopoldo Salcedo and action star Joseph Estrada tells the true-to-life story of Moises Padilla, a political underdog  who fought against the tyrannical rule of a powerful governor in 1950s Negros. The film was chosen as the country’s entry to Best Foreign Language Film category at the 34th Academy Awards (Oscar’s).

The film screening brought upon by the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Committee on Cinema is a tribute to the centenary of the renowned film director who also directed classics such as Noli Me Tangere (1961), Sawa sa Lumang Simboryo (1955) and El Filibusterismo (1962).

He also directed American B-movies cult classics such as Brides of Blood and Women in Cages and was cited as one of the influences of maverick film director Quentin Tarantino.

The 9th Mindanao Film Festival main feature however is the more than 50 short and full-length regional films which will be screened during the one-week theatrical run. The largest ever assembled for the festival.  The 9th MFF will also mark the introduction of an animation category, which aims to put the spotlight on the growing animation industry in Mindanao.

The Mindanao Film Festival will run from December 4-10 at the Gaisano Mall Cinema 6. Awards night will be held on December 9, 7p.m. (pr)

OCD-XI cites need for alternative evac centers

DAVAO CITY, December 3 (PIA) An officer of the Office of Civil Defense has underscored the policy of government to create evacuation centers aside from those traditionally used as places of refuge like schools and gymnasiums.

Loreto Rirao, director of the Office of Civil Defense and chair of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said schools and gymnasiums are not evacuation centers, but these infrastructures are often designated as shelters, because these are the ones available in the locality.

He said that as policy of government, every local government unit down to the barangay must establish its own evacuation center that can stand firm against any calamity.

Rirao said many local government units in Davao Region have already identified areas by which evacuation centers will be constructed next year.

“The Mines and Geosciences Bureau and the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board must consider if the site for an evacuation center is no longer disaster prone,” he said.

Rirao cited the Island Garden City of Samal as one local government unit which has established its own evacuation center that qualifies the standard set by law.

He said that though Davao City is already prepared financially with the construction of evacuation centers, but the various locations still need thorough comprehensive evaluation on soil analysis, tsunami and volcanic eruption. 

Rirao said local government units down to the barangay must have its own evaluation on the need for an evacuation center in their locality.

“Our policy-guideline is for local government units to set up an evacuation center on a disaster-resilient area,” he said. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

DavNor Guv pushes grassroots disaster preparedness,climate change adaption

KAPALONG, Davao del Norte, Dec. 03 (PIA) --- Davao del Norte Provincial Gov. Rodolfo P. del Rosario this morning (Dec. 3) pushed his call for his constituents to prepare for natural calamities as a result of adverse weather conditions due to climate change.

He made an emphatic call “to prepare” in the launching this morning  of Oplan ANDAM which stands for Advocacy on Natural Disaster Awareness and Management held in Barangay Gabuyan in the Municipality of Kapalong.

He reiterated his warning he  had been publicly saying over the radio and on community meetings, urging people to listen to precautions to avoid eventually grieving after either  losing the life of a family or  family property.

“Paminaw sa pahimangno; likaye ang kasubo.  (Listen to advice to avoid grieving.),”  he reminded people of his campaign line for disaster preparedness.  “Mag-andam na ta! (So let’s prepare),”  he said.

Del Rosario cited Oplan ANDAM  as unified efforts of all branches of the provincial government to go out of their way to make communities and even household members internalize climate change adaptation and disaster preparedness, thereby  changing their attitudes towards efforts of government risk reduction.

He also viewed Oplan ANDAM as the answer to the challenge that President Benigno Aquino III calls for local government units to tighten their preparedness and mitigation measures as the country had been  suffering  from the pangs of adverse natural phenomenon.

Meanwhile, in giving the rationale of the event, Provincial Assistant Administrator Romulo Tagalo based  the crafting of Oplan ANDAM on Republic Act 9729 otherwise known as the Climate Change Act of 2009 and on Republic Act 2010 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.

As the executive  director of the Provincial Council on Climate Change Adaptation and DRRM, Tagalo said Oplan ANDAM was aimed at teaching households some simple ways of  adapting to climate change and to reduce the risk to life and property during occurrence of calamities.

Aside from Barangay Gabuyan, the provincial government will roll out Oplan ANDAM to 63 more  flood-prone barangays  in the province starting this month.  The advocacy campaign will continue year-round in 2014.

Aside from holding a program during barangay visits, the Oplan ANDAM will transfer  knowledge to community residents on first aid and basic life-saving techniques through the expertise of   the Provincial Police Office, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and  the rescue team of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management.

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) will coach mothers of household-beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) on water sanitation and hygiene  during emergency situations while the Provincial Agriculture Office will teach farmers on botanical concoction.

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) together with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) will mobilize students, barangay functionaries ,  members of the Barangay  Peace-keeping Action Teams and the Barangay Defense System to do a tree-growing activity.

The Provincial government also identifies 10 family-beneficiaries of 4Ps as recipients of food-for-work, giving them 10-kilo supply of rice every month to nurture  the planted trees.

As power  supply is expected to become scarce  during disaster, the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) will transfer knowledge  and will turn-over units of equipment to produce bio-gas while the Provincial Information Offie (PIO) will distribute information and education materials.  (PIA XI/ Jeanevive Duron-Abangan)