One Mindanao - January 13, 2016

PIA Regional Offices

One Mindanao

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038Cellphone no. 0919-9994516E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]: www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA WesMin Info Bliz

Northern MindanaoGraces’ Building, Antonio Luna StreetCagayan de Oro City 9000Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594Telefax no. (08822) 72-66-83Cellphone no. 0928-5204305, 0917-3084969E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]: www.pia-10.blogspot.com

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)Ground Floor Kanto Motors Bldg.,Quimpo Blvd., New MatinaDavao City 8000Telephone no. (082) 297-0991 / 301-8580Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 / 304-2044Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950E-mail: [email protected]

SOCCSKSARGEN RegionBautista Bldg., Zulueta St.Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506Telephone no. (083) 520-0249Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phWebsite: www.piacaraga.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur, Pia Dinagat Islands Power FM - CaragaTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

REGIONAL DESK EDITORS FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IXALMA L. TINGCANG, PIA Region IX ELAINE O. RATUNIL, PIA Region X RUDOLPH IAN G. ALAMA, PIA Region XI DANNY E. DOGUILES, PIA Region XII FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region

COPY EDITORSFRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga RegionVENUS L. GARCIA, PIA Caraga Region

SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST

GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region

LAYOUT ARTISTSGIDEON CORGUE, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region XZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region XDAISY JANE M. APIT, PIA Region XIII

EDITORIAL ADVISERSSEC. SONNY B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information AgencyEXECUTIVE EDITOR EFREN F. ELBANBUENACluster Head, Southern, Western &Central MindanaoRegional Director, PIA Region XI

MANAGING EDITOR ABNER M. CAGACluster Head, Northern & Northeastern MindanaoRegional Director - PIA Caraga Region

ASSOCIATE EDITORS NOEMI B. EDAGARegional Director, PIA Region IX

THELMA B. OLIVERRegional Director, PIA Region X

OLIVIA T. SUDARIARegional Director, PIA Region XII

28ARMM

ARMM optimistic for more investments, jobs in 2016

29 DSWD-ARMM resumes distribution of Pantawid program cash grants

Free public Wi-Fi, Tech4ED program: Increases connectivity, transforms lives

Cover Story

By Emmanuel D. Taghoy

today’s news

Malacañang welcomes lates SWS survey results on hunger

15

46 Mayor Beng bares vision: “A world-class Zamboanga”

By: Dominic I. Sanchez

Bangsamoro process outcome crucial to Europe and rest of the world – Deles

18 23 Confab celebrates Mindanao experience

24 University emerges top performing nursing school in PH with 100% passing rate

35 NorthCot LGU pushes for stronger commitment to public service this 2016By: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

38 SurSur CSC reiterates call for 2016 “exams”By Greg Tataro Jr

SOCCSKSARGEN

CARAGA

INFOCUS

WESTERN

NORTHERN

13 18 22

26 36

44

NATIONAL

By: Ian S. Embradura

By: Apipa P. Bagumbaran

39 Pinoy mountaineer reaches Mt. Hilong-hilongBy Brian Ceballo

33

32 Cateel hosts young journalists confab 32

SOUTHERN

4 January13, 2016One Mindanao

Free public Wi-Fi, Tech4ED program: Increases connectivity, transforms livesBy Mary May A. Abellon

4 January 12, 2016One Mindanao

5January 13, 2016 One Mindanao 5

6 January13, 2016One Mindanao6 January13, 2016One Mindanao

7January 13, 2016 One Mindanao 7

Technology can become the wings that will allow the educational world to fly farther and faster

than ever before. It offers vast opportunities and major breakthroughs in the field of human inventions and discoveries. It provides solutions to intricate human problems making it simpler, easier andthe fastest way.


Technology connects us to the different parts of the world, and unites us with other people and communities. This magnifies our strengths andweaknesses in every problem that comes in our way.

With the advancement of technology, Wi-Fi internet access becomes a must in this digital world. People could easily access to devices like computers and cellphones with the use of Wi-Fi.

Wireless networking

technology

Wi-Fi is the name of a popular wireless networking technology that uses radio waves to provide wireless high-speed internet andnetwork connections. It is used for different purposes such as data transmission and wireless communication which is faster and more consistent internet access.

This technology makes all connections seamless where it connects devices to the internet

8 January13, 2016One Mindanao8 January13, 2016One Mindanao

9January 13, 2016 One Mindanao

such as laptops, cellular phones, printers, thermostats, light bulbs, home security, monitoring and control systems, appliances and automotive products making lives better.

The Wi-Fi network allows access from anywhere in the building like when an employeemay take his laptop from an office to the conference room without losing network connectivity.


Free Wi-Fi internet access

The provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte is a recipient of the “Free Wi-Fi Internet Access in Public Places,” a project of the national government through the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Information and Communications Technology Office (ICTO) which will be installed this year.

This project is implemented across the Philippines to accelerate economic, social and educational opportunities with a budget of over a billion pesos.

It aims to reduce the

growing “digital divide” under the overarching e-Filipino Program of the government, thereby improving the delivery of critical function of government services and providing efficient and effective ICT infrastructure and information systems to the public.

“This Wi-Fi connectivity will be installed in public places that are open and accessible to the general public such as schools, libraries, parks, plazas, in local and national government offices, barangay centers and gymnasiums,” ICTO Team Leader Samuel M. Montallana said in an interview.



He added that 3rd to 6th class municipalities will benefit from this project. In Zamboanga del Norte, there are 18 municipalities who are beneficiaries of this project, namely: La Libertad, Labason, Liloy, Manukan, Mutia, Piñan, Polanco, Roxas, Rizal, Salug, Sibutad, Sirawai, Tampilisan, Jose Dalman, Baliguian, Godod, Bacungan and Kalawit. Moreover, he stressed that the LGUs are tasked on the maintenance and security of the Wi-Fi routers.

Meanwhile, Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Information Officer Roberto N. Pinsoy said

that this project will empower the people in rural areas through connectivity.

“They will be connected for educational and employment purposes. They can even communicate with their loved ones who are in other places, they can access public services available online, students can do their research, the out-of-school youth (OSY) can enroll and study in the Alternative Learning System (ALS) of the Department of Education (DepEd) and even in Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA),” he added.


According to him, this project will also benefit those who are in trade and commerce and in agriculture through Tech4ED program of ICTO.

Tech4ED program

“This is not just an ordinary Wi-Fi project but it has a program called Tech4Ed. Tech4ED is an anchor of the free Wi-Fi connectivity project of ICTO where the different services of the government could be accessed,” Pinsoy emphasized.

Through this program, it enables people to upgrade their digital literacy, increase their knowledge and skills set for employment, access health professionals for proper healthcare, start source of livelihood, to become entrepreneurs, to open markets outside their communities, create agri-tourist destinations and to contribute to economic growth.

He explained that the role of the provincial government is to provide and establish Tech4ED centers. Local government units (LGUs) are encouraged to establish their own Tech4ED centers because they will now

have Wi-fi connectivity.

For the part of the government,this will enable them to provide women and homemakers new prospects for income generation and social advancement towards gender equality and to initiate capability build-up in rural communities through skills-matched trainings.

This will deliver equal and direct government services to all, especially in rural areas.

“The use of free Wi-Fi as provided by the government would be meaningless without this program because people may only use it for chatting and browsing in facebook, twitter and other forms of social media,”Mr.Pinsoy stressed.

With this project, the goal of the national government to bring the nation especially the countryside into the mainstream of inclusive growth and development throughout the Philippine archipelago would be realized.


MANILA-- President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday graced the opening of the Manila branch of Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), the first foreign bank to operate in the country, which is seen to attract more foreign investors.

First foreign bank to operate in PH seen to attract more investors

“This ceremony represents the beginning of a new chapter of SMBC’s ties with the Philippines, one that cements your position in our local banking industry,” President Aquino said.

The President recalled that it was during his visit to Japan

in December 2013 that SMBC suggested the liberalization of the Philippine banking industry, which led to the passage of Republic Act (RA) No. 10641. SMBC is the first foreign bank approved for a Philippine operating license under this new law.


One Mindanao14 January 13, 2016

Approved on July 15, 2014, RA 10641 allows the full entry of foreign banks into the Philippines.

President Aquino admitted that the country has some catching up to do compared to its neighboring countries in the ASEAN, in terms of foreign direct investments “likely due to the unstable political and economic atmosphere prior to our administration.”

However, the good news, he said, is that the Philippines “gained momentum in the past five years” for partners such as SMBC. Japan is the country’s top trading partner with a trade volume of USD 19.15 billion in 2014, and a top source of IPA-approved (Investment Promotion Agency) foreign investments in the same year. According to the President, this is made evident in the sheer number of Japanese firms that have established themselves in the country, such

as Toyota, Tsuneishi, and the International Wiring Systems Philippines--a wiring harness company based in Tarlac that is working under the Sumitomo Group.

Furthermore, the Japanese clothing retailer Uniqlo has established 27 out of an initial target of 200 stores in the country.

The opening of SMBC’s Manila branch, Aquino said, would help facilitate the entry of Japanese investors in the country. “SMBC’s operations in the Philippines will create even more opportunities for all of us. You (SMBC) already have a well-established reputation in Japan; some of your clients may already be eyeing our country for their expansion plans,” he said.

The central bank has approved five other foreign banks to operate in the country under RA 10641. (PRC-PIA/PCOO/PND)


MANILA -- The Palace on Monday welcomed the results of the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing a decrease in the number of Filipino families experiencing involuntary hunger.

Malacañang welcomes lates SWS survey results on hunger

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the SWS fourth quarter 2015 survey results revealed “a four-point drop equivalent to an

estimated 900,000 families”.

“In the latest tranche of results released today (Monday) from its fourth quarter 2015

One Mindanao16 January 13, 2016

survey, the Social Weather Stations reported a decrease in the number of Filipino families experiencing involuntary hunger. From 15.7 percent in September 2015, the figure fell to 11.7 percent last quarter—a four-point drop equivalent to an estimated 900,000 families. This decrease brings the average hunger rate for 2015 to 13.4 percent. This is 4.9 points below the 2014 average of 18.3 percent, and is also the lowest annual rate for the series in 11 years,” said the Palace official.

Secretary Lacierda also noted that the SWS last week announced similar overall declines in self-rated poverty and food poverty, with the annual averages for both series—50 percent and 35 percent—currently at their lowest levels since 2011 and 1988, respectively.

“As the north star of the current administration, inclusive

growth has long been guiding our government in its various endeavors. The main goal is to include everyone in the nation’s rise. In line with this, the Aquino government has been making valuable investments in such sectors as health, education, social services, and job skills development. These priorities are reflected in our 2016 budget,” he said.

He further said that the poverty-alleviation initiatives, such as the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program, continue to empower the citizens toward achieving their full potential.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development has estimated that the program has enabled 1.5 million households—or about 7.5 million Filipinos—to rise above the poverty line, he said.

Lacierda said the government


will ensure that the public would continue to benefit from the country’s progress.

“Rest assured that in the following months, the government will continue to make sure that all our countrymen feel the positive effects of the nation’s recent progress under Daang Matuwid.

In this way, by focusing on each citizen, the administration ensures that our people are collectively empowered to rise above individual challenges and achieve the Filipino dream,” he concluded. (PCOO/PND)

filephoto: philstar.com

18 One Mindanao January 13, 2016

Bangsamoro process outcome crucial to Europe and rest of the world – Deles

MANILA – The passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law pending in Congress since September 2014 will help curb the growing threat of religious extremism not only locally but even among international communities, according to Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles, of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

“[T]he success of the Bangsamoro peace process can help us arrest the spread of extremism around the globe

by showing clearly that an Islamic movement can address its grievances and pursue its interests through a legitimate


mode of democratic political engagement while still remaining within the country’s territorial integrity and constitutional framework, and without losing their culture and identity,” Deles said in a message during the Regional Consultative Meeting for Heads of Posts in Europe organized by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in Manila. The message was delivered by Undersecretary Luisito Montalbo. The OPAPP head added that the outcome of the Bangsamoro peace process was crucial not only to the Philippines but to the global community as this would send a message to leaders of religious groups that the Philippines fully recognize and respect Islam. “[The completion of the peace negotiations] can show the global ummah that even Muslim minorities can thrive and contribute to development through the mutually-beneficial interaction of distinct cultures,” she stressed. Deles also noted the steadfast commitment of the international community to support the Bangsamoro peace

process, especially the passage of the BBL, as a solution to the decades-old Bangsamoro armed struggle in Mindanao. “[J]ust in October of last year, top diplomats representing at least twenty-four (24) countries led by ambassadors from the European Union, United Kingdom, and the United States released a strong statement of support for the peace process,” the OPAPP secretary recalled. “In December last year, the EU vowed continued support for the peace process, pledging 275 billion pesos to allow for a smooth transition and to create conditions for the establishment of the autonomous region of the Bangsamoro, through the BBL,” she added. Deles appealed to the European officials for the continued moral and material support from all the stakeholders in the peace process, the civil society and the foreign nationals on the success of the peace negotiations. “The way forward will not be easy, and we will need all the help we can get if we are to move the peace process leaps and bounds closer


to our goal of a just and lasting peace in Mindanao.” “I am certain that, in this regard, the Philippines has a message that the world is eager to listen to. For sure, they are watching in Europe what is happening to our peace process,” she said. “With democracy, we devalue brute force and violence.

With dialogue, we discredit extremism’s claim that there is no alternative to terror.” Not giving up on BBL The peace adviser said she remained optimistic that the proposed BBL would be passed under the Aquino administration despite the legislative delays


due to quorum woes and the Mamasapano incident last January 2015, saying that the completion the Bangsamoro peace roadmap is still ‘realistically possible.’ “Delays are, understandably, of great concern for communities on the ground. With every passing day of delay, they grow more anxious. With each new unmet deadline, they ask – will this mean a return to war? With firm hope and unwavering courage, we say: no, not under our watch,” Deles said. “We did not come so far and so close only to give up now. Doing so risks yet another round of dashed expectations and the prospect of losing the people’s faith and trust. We say this not on the basis of unguarded optimism or naiveté: we have hope and courage because the two parties remain very much committed to and willing to work hard for the peace process – and the milestones we reached in the implementation of the CAB, even without an enacted BBL, attest to that.” According to her, various sectors of the society were

backing up the Bangsamoro peace process by taking different actions through forums in different parts of the country, and sending statements of support for an undiluted BBL. “We cannot give up, because families cannot be torn by war yet again; because communities on the verge of recovery cannot revert to their broken state. We dare not and we will not give up, because hopes and lives and dreams hang in the balance.” “Despite the challenges, we have basis for real hope. We still believe. We remain courageous in the face of challenges. We continue to work and pray hard so that in our remaining months in office, the peace process can move closer and closer – Insha’Allah – towards its successful conclusion, towards a bright new dawn of peace, of prosperity, of harmony, for the Bangsamoro, for Mindanao, and for the Philippines,” she concluded.

22 One Mindanao January 13, 201622 January 12, 2016One Mindanao

CAGAYAN DE ORO – Preparations are underway for the 2nd National School Deworming Day (NSDD2) in the province of Misamis Oriental.

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) Misamis Oriental in partnership with the Division of Misamis Oriental of the Department of Education (DepEd) will conduct series of orientation on harmonized schedule and combined mass drug administration for selected neglected tropical diseases (NTDs),

for second round of NSDD2 to all DepEd elementary and secondary nurses with elementary extension schools and elementary school clinic teachers to be held in Cagayan de Oro City. With its successful NSDD Day last July 29, 2015, the Department of Health (DOH), in coordination with DepEd through the Health and Nutrition Center (HNC), will have its second round

of NSDD on January 27. NSDD targets to increase the number of dewormed school children to guarantee that more children will be free from helminthiasis or parasitism for better health and school performance.

By: Michelle Love R. Hilario

All set for 2nd National School Deworming Day in MisOr


Confab celebrates Mindanao experience

ILIGAN CITY – Believing in the idea that Mindanao is the Land of Promise, a group of young and dynamic employees of MSU-IIT came together to organize the first TEDx event in the Institute, the fourth in Mindanao.

By: Ian S. Embradura

The orientation will be conducted on the following schedule and batches of participants: nurses from Jasaan to Lugait towns (January 7-8), clinic teachers from Opol to Initao (January 14), clinic teachers from Naawan to Lugait (January 15), Nurses from Magsaysay to Balingasag (January 18-19), clinic teachers from Balingoan to Magsaysay (January

20), clinic teachers from Balingasag to Kinoguitan (January 21), and clinic teachers of Claveria, Jasaan, Villanueva, and Tagoloan (January 22). Meanwhile, PHO MisOr urges all parents to make sure their children from Kinder to Grade Six to be present at school for NSDD2.

TEDxMSUIIT through six talks on different promises provided the platform of sharing the idea that Mindanao is not what is commonly reported on news. One of the driving force of the group is to combat negative publicity about Mindanao. As witnessed by 100 onsite participants from all walks of life--students and professionals, plus live stream viewers, TEDxMSUIIT has fulfilled its aim. First speaker Professor Imelu G. Mordeno, a clinical psychologist and an expert in disaster preparation, trauma, and mental health-related issues shared about the Mindanaoan’s resiliency on natural calamities

and man-made disasters. Mordeno emphasized that it is through one’s faith and love in his homeland that the people of Mindanao have the promise to stand and remain strong no matter the catastrophes. Sharing about the choices that she has made as a woman, Anak Mindanao Partylist Representative Sitti Djalia A. Tubarin-Hataman talked about how her choices have become who she is right now–a wife, a mother, and a congresswoman—and so can every other woman in Mindanao, in this land where women’s choices are heard because they matter.

Talaandig princess and painter Salima


Saway-Agraan shared the stories of her people by showing three soil paintings. Using soil as medium is the best way to capture and represent the Talaandig culture according to Saway-Agraan. In her talk, she shared how different kinds of soil can be used as colors on canvass ensuring the idea that from the soil we live on, comes our stories. Dumingag Municipal Mayor, Nacianceno M. Pacalioga shared how through collective leadership, the municipality has risen from being a 4th class municipality to being a 2nd class municipality. The growth of the municipality is all due to the shared idea of the Dumingag people to consciously support and practice organic farming. The Institute Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension Jinky B. Bornales shared how Physics can explain randomness in life. Through various researches conducted, Bornales shared that “there is always a way of contributing to the body of knowledge despite the random events that surround us every day.” The event ended with Palanca

awardee and Professor German V. Gervacio who shared on the reality in myth and the myth in reality. The beloved comical writer talked about the promise of literature in terms of the merits of truthfulness in our myths, however unreal reality is repackaged. TEDxMSUIIT In the Land of Promise was made possible by Louis Mark Plaza (CED-IDS); Sittie Noffaisah Pasandalan, Amado Guinto, Jr., Honeylet Dumoran (CASS); Pamela Resurreccion, Safa Manala-o, Marlo Novino (CBAA); Lemuel Velasco (SCS); Zarina Villadolid (OVCAA); and 40 volunteers. TEDxMSUIIT was sponsored by Cebu Pacific, PBCom, Mapalad, and Tedts Diner. Looking forward to another TEDxMSUIIT, the team has already started evaluating and reporting to TED on the conduct of the first TEDxMSUIIT held on November 27 at CASSalida Theater. TEDxMSUIIT is the team’s way of celebrating Mindanao Week of Peace, which annually happens from the last week of November to the first week of December.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The College of Nursing of Xavier University (XU) in Cagayan de Oro CIty continues to soar high.

University emerges top performing nursing school in PH with 100% passing rate


XU ranked number one top performing nursing school with a 100% passing percentage for the November 2015 Nursing Licensure Examination (NLE) along with the University of Santo Tomas and Mariano Marcos State University. Out of the 65 XU successful passers, two graduates landed in the top 10. May Karren T Deutzmann garnered a score of 84.60%, earning her the ninth place, while Rhea Mae G Mecisamente scored 84.40%, taking the 10th spot together with 15 other graduates. Data from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) showed that 9,114 out of 18,500 passed the NLE administered by the Board of Nursing in the cities of Manila, Bacolod, Baguio, Cabanatuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Dagupan, Davao, Iloilo, Laoag, Legazpi, Lucena, Pagadian, Tacloban, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga. PRC requires at least 50 examinees and at least 80-percent passing rate for a school to be declared as top-performing. The national passing rate is 49. 26%. XU president Fr Roberto C Yap SJ expressed his congratulations to the new XU nurses and his gratitude to the faculty and staff of the College of Nursing. “Congratulations to our new XU nurses! In your healing profession, may we see reflected what Pope Francis beautifully describes as “... the tenderness of God. This same tenderness is present in the lives of

all those persons who attend the sick and understand their needs, even the most imperceptible ones, because they look upon them with eyes full of love (Message for the 24th World Day of the Sick 2016),” Yap said in his message to the academic community. “We thank once again Dean Ramona Heidi C Palad, the faculty and staff of the College of Nursing for the excellent guidance and support they steadfastly provide our students,” he added. Since it was recognized by the Commission on Higher Education in 1992 and graduated its first batch in 1993, XU – College of Nursing continues to strive “to remain the country’s leading provider of quality nursing education to help Filipinos both local and global clientele the best health service in the world.” This achievement came on the heels of the declaration from the Commission on Higher Education, recognizing XU’s Agriculture program as a Center of Excellence, and the Chemical Engineering, Literature, and Biology programs as Centers of Development. (XU)


Lanao del Sur Provincial Capitol opens birthing center

Expectant mothers may now avail of the services like Normal Spontaneous Delivery (NSD), Maternity Care Package and other

Philhealth maternity benefits at the Provincial Capitol with the upgrading of the provincial government’s health clinic to a birthing center on December 10, 2015.


Dr. Alinader Minalang, head of the Integrated Provincial Health Office, along with his assistant, Dr. Shalimar Sani-Rakiin, handed the instruments and devices to be used in the birthing center to Governor Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong, Jr. through his medical officers, Dr. Mangoda Dima, Dr. Alejandrito S. Descallar and Dr. Imelda Gandamra-Taib. Aside from maternal care, the center has outpatient, pediatric and dental services. It also offers free laboratory, X-ray, ultrasound, and free medicines to indigent patients. Underscoring the

commitment of the provincial government of Lanao del Sur to provide quality health care to its constituents, governor Adiong said the opening of the birthing clinic will enable expectant mothers to have access to essential health services that will ensure their well-being and their babies survival. (PIO-Lanao del Sur/APB/PIA-10)


ARMM optimistic for more investments, jobs in 2016MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The Regional Board of Investments in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (RBOI-ARMM) is expecting to draw more investments this year.

Atty. Ishak Mastura, RBOI-ARMM chairperson, said the agency is targeting to generate at least P900 million worth of investments and 900 new jobs in 2016, conservative figures considering what the regional government has achieved last year. RBOI-ARMM posted P6.5 billion worth of new projects in 2015, way over its original investments target of only P700 million announced early last year. Within this month, RBOI is expecting to approve a P1.3 billion oil palm plantation in Maguindanao, thus the year’s targets could be topped

within the first quarter. There are also new ventures in the pipeline including a P45 million industrial waste treatment facility in Polloc, Maguindanao and an P80 million water facility. The region’s economic potentials – rich in raw materials and an emerging market for goods and services – have been generally overlooked by the business sector in previous decades but this has changed significantly in recent years. Atty. Mastura said investors continue to put money in the region because of their trust in the good


governance initiatives of the present ARMM administration. He said the ongoing peace process also augments investors’ confidence in the region. According to him, 2015 was the best year so far because the region has posted the highest value of investments in the 26-year history of ARMM.” Last year, RBOI recorded an increase of 70 percent in the total value of investments registered compared with P3.867 billion in 2014. Likewise, 4,894 jobs were created, 43 percent higher compared with 3,433 new jobs registered in 2014. RBOI-ARMM approved eight major investment projects in 2015 led by Al-Sahar Agri Ventures Inc., a Cavendish banana plantation in Maguindanao with a P3.7 billion project. It was the largest single investment in the history of the ARMM. Chan C. Mining Inc. also invested P742 million for a nickel ore project in Tawi-Tawi, Lamsan Power Corp.,

meanwhile, had a 5.5-megawatt power plant expansion project worth P687 million in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. Other investors in the region are Tawi-Tawian Petroleum Trading Corp. in Panglima Sugala. Tawi-Tawi; DS3 Fuel Tanking and Services Inc., a petroleum project operating at Polloc Free Port, Parang, Maguindanao; Maguindanao Enegry Farms Inc. based in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao for a 474 hectare-napier grass plantation; Matling Industrial and Commercial Corp., a cassava starch milling plant in Malabang, Lanao del Sur; and Southsea Industrial Energy Corp, an oil refinery project in Simunul, Tawi-Tawi. Sixty-five percent or P4.3 billion of the combined value of the new projects approved by RBOI-ARMM in 2015 is agri-based while 24 percent or P1.5 billion, are energy related. The rest or P742 million is on mining and quarrying.(BPI/APB/PIA-10)

DSWD-ARMM resumes distribution of Pantawid program cash grantsMARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DSWD-ARMM) resumes the payout of cash grants to beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Maguindanao after months of delay.

The release of payout for Period 6 covering the months November-December in 2012 and for the

same period in 2014 to 22 towns of Maguindanao will start on Thursday, January 7.


Towns in Maguindanao’s first district where qualified beneficiaries would soon receive cash grants are Barira, Matanog, Parang, Datu Blah Sinsuat, Upi, Sultan Mastura, Sultan Kudarat, North Kabuntalan, South Upi, Mother Kabuntalan, and Datu Odin Sinsuat (Dinaig). Those in the second district are as follows: Datu Hoffer, Shariff Saydona, Datu Unsay, Datu Saudi, Datu Piang, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Guindulungan, Talayan, Talitay, Pagalungan, and Pagagawan. Rahima Datumanong Alba, DSWD-ARMM office-in charge, said the delay of the payment of grants for unpaid periods started when conduit Globe Exchange Inc. (GXI) failed to replenish the fund from the previous payouts to its merchant partner Loaded Marketing. She explained that before the suspension of the payout in October 2015, the DSWD, through conduits GXI and Loaded Marketing, was paying Period 5 (September-October) and

Period 6 (November-December) of 2014 as well as unpaid grants starting Period 6 of 2012. Based on DSWD-ARMM data, GXI has previously released a total of P373,852,600 cash grants to 120,286 beneficiaries in Maguindanao. The Land Bank of the Philippines serves as the sole authorized disbursement agent of the DSWD for the

nationwide distribution of cash grants. It also authorized money transfer agents to deliver the grants. The choice of conduits went through a bidding process undertaken by the Landbank Head Office Bids and Awards Committee. 4Ps is the national government’s flagship poverty alleviation initiative, providing grants to the poorest households in order to improve health, nutrition and education of children. The cash grants comprise P500 per month per household for health and nutrition expenses and P300 per child each month for educational expenses. Households with three qualified children would receive P1,400 monthly. Sec. Alba said DSWD-ARMM closely monitors the distribution of cash grants to the beneficiaries across the region. (BPI/PIA-10)


CSC XI calls for neutrality among gov’t employeesDavao del Norte- Civil Service Commission officer urged public employees and officials to ob-serve political neutrality starting January 10 as the election cam-paign commences. “Being a government em-ployee does not end after office hours” said Ms. Leilani Parel, CSC-Region XI Division Chief on Public Assistance and Liaison Di-vision, during her guesting at the Kapihan sa Kapitolyo yesterday afternoon. She emphasized that nobody from the public office should be involved in any partisan-political activities during election period. Wearing of campaign shirts, wrist bands, any info-paraphernalia, attendance to rallies and making messages/stories to defame a candidate must be avoided. Any public employee or official once proven guilty will face suspen-sion of up to six months for 1st offense and dismissal from office

for 2nd offense. Ms. Parel bared that on the start of the election campaign, transfer or movement of employ-ees from one office to another is prohibited. A total gun ban (which in-cludes bearing, carrying and transporting firearms and deadly weapons will also be implement-ed nationwide, unless authorized by the Commission, so withthat of the security personnel or bodyguards of a candidate.

The Civil Service Commission and the Commission on Elections hope for a peaceful election thus, they are asking people’s coopera-tion to properly observe the said measures startingJanuary 10 to June 8, 2016.(DavNor PIO)


Cateel hosts young journalists confabCATEEL, DAVAO ORIENTAL – This majestic town of Davao Oriental which is home to one of the coun-try’s most beautiful waterfalls and which was once badly hit by super typhoon Pablo is a proud host to the region’s biggest gathering of young journalists. For the first time, this once sleepy town have successfully hosted the four-day 2016 Regional Schools Press Conference from January 6 to 9. Local government officials here says it was the biggest event so far in their municipality, and it was an opportunity for them to showcase its people’s resiliency after being hit by a monstrous typhoon more than three years ago. The event was also an opportune time for them to showcase their unique ecotourism destinations. Many of the 3,500 delegates from Davao Region’s public and private schools were awed upon arriving in this town as they came to see the majestic Aliwagwag Wa-terfalls, touted to be the country’s most beautiful waterfalls. Top officials of the Department of Education (DepEd) as well as the participants say that they were “very impressed” that a small town of Cateel once badly devastated by a typhoon has the capacity to hold an event of this scale. For the first time, this once sleepy town have successfully

hosted the four-day 2016 Region-al Schools Press Conference from January 6 to 9. DepEd Regional Director Atty. Alberto T. Escobarte lauded the Provincial Government as well as the Local Government of Cateel for their effort in the successful con-duct of the conference that helped buoy the department’s bid in shap-ing young minds on responsible journalism and freedom of the press. Cateel Mayor Camilo T. Nu-ñez referred this event as the New Year’s ‘big bang’ for his town, as it became a defining moment in high-lighting Cateel’s potentials in terms of eco-tourism and investments and in showing its hospitality to the rest of the region and the country. Governor Corazon N. Malan-yaon said that this event is a big opportunity for her leadership to contribute in the growth of campus journalism and in honing the crafts of the young future journalists. Meanwhile, she also said that the coming of the RSPC to Cateel is “very overwhelming” knowing that the town was one of the municipal-ities that was hard-hit by typhoon Pablo in December 2012. (DavOr PIO)


DA gears up for cloud seeding operations By: Danilo E.Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Jan 13 — The regional field office of the Department of Agriculture here eyes to begin cloud seeding operations next week, an official of the agency con-firmed.


Zaldy Boloron, regional tech-nical director for operations of DA 12 confirmed in a radio interview that personnel from the Bureau of Soil and Water Management (BSWM) are here to conduct final assessment prior to the cloud seeding.

“Next week, we could imme-diately begin cloud seeding,” he said.

Cloud seeding is a process of manually spreading salt or dry ice on clouds to help trig-ger precipitation and induce rain.

DA has identified cloud seeding as one of the miti-gating measures against the ef-fects of El Nino phenomenon.

Initially, according to Bolo-ron, DA will conduct at least 10 cloud seeding sorties across different parts of SOCCSKSAR-GEN Region, targeting areas that are most affected by the prevailing dry spell such as Sa-rangani and South Cotabato provinces.

Each flight, he estimated, costs Php45,000.

Specifically for the cloud seeding operations, DA 12 has allotted Php 6 million, Boloron said.

Last week, Provincial Agricul-turist Justina Navarrete con-

firmed that an estimated 7,000 hectares of rainfed corn and rice farms in South Cotabato are in danger of losing produc-tion if the dry spell persists.

She, however, assured that supply is sufficient for the ir-rigated areas.

In a report in December, last year, Regional Executive Di-rector Amalia Jayag-Datukan announced that DA 12 has earmarked Php44 million for various interventions to coun-ter the adverse effects of El Nino.

These interventions include, seeds and other relief assis-tance that could help farmers restart their production activi-ties and recover losses from the dry spell.

Apart from these aids, DA 12 and partner agencies and local government units con-ducted activities to help farm-ers prepare against the effects of El Nino.(DEDoguiles-PIA 12)


By:Shahana Joy E. Duerme

NorthCot LGU pushes for stronger commitment to public service this 2016

KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, Jan. 13-- The provincial gov-ernment here is pushing for a stronger commitment from its work-force to provide quality and efficient services this year.

In line with this, Governor Emmylou Mendoza noted that with right attitude comes the commitment of being a public servant.

“The New Year should also mean a ‘new you’ where every-one should leave behind what-ever is bad including habit and character,” the governor said emphasizing that professional-ism and commitment are among the keys to better work perfor-mance.

She also stated that as public servants, everyone should move forward in giving their best for public service.

Meanwhile, Mendoza thanked the provincial government’s em-ployees for being active partner in delivering the services for the people for the past years. She also asked them to commit themselves once more in adher-ing to the “SerbisyongTotoo”

advocacy.“May we all have renewed

hearts and commitments in the service of making a better, more dynamix and progressive prov-ince this 2016,” Mendoza said. (SJDuerme-PIA12 with report fromLGonzales-NorthCot Provin-cial Government)


DAR, XU hold product quality enhancement, product processing clinic activities for ARB orgs Corine G. Munion

& Leigh Ann G. Orapa

AGUSAN DEL SUR - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) thru Program Beneficiary Development in cooperation with Food Technology Department (FTD) of Xavier University, Cagayan de Oro City recently conducted the Product Assessment, Product Clinic and Orientation on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) held at the processing center of Sta. Maria ARB Multi- Purpose Coopera-tive (STAMERBEMCO) in Sta. Maria, Prosperidad, this province for the sweetened kaong and KAAGAP Multi-Purpose Cooperative (KAAGAPMUCO) of Hubang, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur for its virgin coconut oil products.


These activities were under the Up-Valuing of ARB Products of Partnership Development Program. The officers and staff of STAMARBEMCO and KAAGAPMUCO attended the said product development activities. Sylvia T. Aguhob, chair of FTD from Xavier University and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) accredited specialist personally gave lectures and proceeded with the evaluation, assessment, and critiquing during the actual processing of the mentioned products. A final discussion followed at Navarro’s Function Hall, SFADS. The product development serves to assess the products of the above- mentioned cooperatives during production, ensure that the standard operation procedures in the production are being followed and to make sure that the products are suitable for food consumption ready for the market. “This project is very useful for us in the production of our goods because we are able to evaluate and observe the correct procedures in food handling, among others,” Acila A. Coyoca excitedly beamed. Introduction to HACCP was discussed thoroughly

emphasizing therein the importance of the hazard analysis and critical control point of every procedure during the actual production. The size, color, appearance, and tastes are the most critical where customers will at a quick, remember a certain product. The overview on GMP was also shared as part of the requirements to the application in Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) for the cooperatives to have license to operate (LTO). This is the greatest achievement that every businessman seeks for. “We strive to assist our ARB organizations for them to be able to compete not only in the local business community but also nationally and internationally if given the opportunity,” said Corine Munion, Provincial Marketing Assistance Officer of DAR Agusan del Sur.


SurSur CSC reiterates call for 2016 “exams”

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Civil Service Commission (CSC) Provincial Office, this province, has reiterated its call on in-terested applicants for any of the 2016 examinations administered by their agency.

By Greg Tataro Jr

Ruth Beniga, provincial director, made the gesture through the leaflets she provided dubbed as “2016 CSC Examination Schedule.” These are for Fire Officer and Penology Officer as well as for the first and second rounds of Professional and Sub-professional which application periods run from November 23, 2015 to January 22, 2016; November 9, 2015 to February 25, 2016; and May 9, 2016 to September 1, 2016, respectively.

This year, the examination dates are likewise set on March 13, April 17, and October 23, respectively. However, Beniga said that while the place of examination for the fire and penology officers would be held in Butuan City, on the other hand, Tandag City would also be one of the venues for the first round of exam for the professional and sub-professional. In addition, the information regarding the said exams also


Pinoy mountaineer reaches Mt. Hilong-hilong By Brian Ceballos

contains important reminders like: Know your room assignment; Bring valid ID on exam day due to “NO ID, NO EXAM RULE” policy; Report at 7:00 a.m. to the testing center since “Gates of testing

venues shall be closed at 7:30 a.m.;” Examinees that arrive later than 7:30 a.m. shall NOT be admitted; and Cell phones are not allowed on examination day.

BUTUAN CITY -- Dr. Gideon Lasco, Pinoy mountaineer and World Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature Philippines Ambassador and partner advocate for Philippine Forest Protection Program, together with his team, successfully reached the summit of Mt. Hilong-Hilong, peaks 1 2 3 last Jan. 2, 2016.


Together with the climbers of Cabadbaran City led by Fredgie Fcd Dacera who accompanied them, the group started their climb using the Mahaba Trail in Sitio Masundog going all the way to the top of Mt. Hilong-hilong. The said mountain is the highest peak in Caraga Region, covering 80-100 hectares and also known for its handful of waterfalls, and home to different species of animals and ecologically threatened flora. It is still a neophyte destination but is slowly gaining ground as it is becoming a popular site for mountaineers because of its unspoiled beauty and challenging trail going to the top. “I am very fortunate to see this rainbow from Peak 3 (1921m) of Mt. Hilong-Hilong! This is the land of the Philippine eagles, and

one of the few expanses of tropical rainforest that have not been destroyed by mining operations which are rampant in the region. May this view survive a hundred years and beyond! I join the local hikers in Cabadbaran in hoping for the declaration of Mt. Hilong-Hilong as a protected area,” said Doc Lasco. The entry of Doc. Lasco into the scene of Mt. Hilong-hilong will surely promote the site and help boost its potential to become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the coming years. Dr. Lasco launched Pinoy Mountaineer (PinoyMountaineer.com) website in 2007 as a guide for hiking in the Philippines which is a known advocate of environmental issues opposing practices that can affect the environment.





DTI reminds businessmen to register their business nameBy Alfonso T. RudaDIPOLOG CITY (PIA)---The Department of Trade and Industry in Zamboanga del Norte has reminded all business operators in the province to register their business name or renew their registration, especially those registered in 2011.


Mr. Julius Salaveria, Consumer Protection Division Chief of DTI-Zamboanga del Norte during the recent “KapihansaDipolog” forum urged businessmen to register their business with the DTI as it is one of the requirements in getting business permit from the local government units. He said the business name registration is valid for five (5) years. The last business name registration was conducted by DTI in 2011. Failure to renew one’s business name registration is punishable by a 50% surcharge. He also cautioned business operators from hanging signage and using a business name without registering it first with DTI. Salaveria pointed out that registering one’sbusiness name with DTI also serves as protection to both the business owner and consumers. “One’s business name could not just be used by anybody. At the same time, it also helps a customer in seeking redress against any malpractices of some unscrupulous business operators,” he explained. He said that business name registration has 3 scopes: Barangay, city ormunicipality,regional and national. Under businessname registration law, business name registered in the barangay costs

only P200.00 for five years; P500.00 for city or municipality; P1,000.00for regional and P2,000 for national in scope plus a documentary stamp of P15.00. However, he clarified that partnership businesses are to be registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and only the Single Proprietorship iscovered by the DTI. Trade and Industry Officer MailaDenolansaid one of the requirements in business name registration is the Tax Identification Number(TIN) of the applicant from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the registration forms which are available at the DTI office. In another development, Mr. Ceferino J. Rubio recently assumed as the DTI Provincial Director of Zamboanga del Norte. He replaces former DTI Provincial Director Engr. Noel E. Bazan who has been designated as Acting Assistant Regional Director (ARD) of DTI-9 based in Zamboanga City. Rubio was officially installed by DTI-9 Regional Director Sitti Amina M. Jain during the flag-raising ceremony on January 4, 2016 at the DTI Provincial Office, Sta.Isabel,Dipolog City.


ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – In her State of the City Address (SOCA) yesterday (January 12), Mayor Maria Isabelle G. Climaco-Salazar finally shared a feasible and promising vision for the city: “A world-class Zamboanga.” “As we expand Zamboanga City, we not only look at a 3-year plan, but prepare the city for the next 30 and 50 years. We ask ourselves, where do we envision Zamboanga City to go?” said the mayor. Among the many priority programs which were endorsed by the Regional Development Council include a world class seaport to be located at the Zamboanga Ecozone and Freeport Authority, and the long-awaited transfer

of the Zamboanga International Airport, to which the mayor received much applause. “The transfer of the airport is number one in the list, which means that the project will start within the timeframe,” Mayor Climaco-Salazar said. The said airport will be located in barangay Mercedes-Talabaan, and is projected to be completed within six years.

Mayor Beng bares vision: “A world-class Zamboanga”By Dominic I. Sanchez


According to the lady chief executive, the city is due to be “redesigned” and “extended” towards Mercedes, Talabaan, Zambowood, Culianan and Boalan. Stakeholders that include representatives from both local and national government agencies, non-government organizations and civil society groups opined that these developments may well solve the congestion problem in the city, and pave new opportunities for business and economic growth outside the city proper’s 7-kilometer radius. “We entered into a contract with Palafox and associates who will work in the updating of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, the Comprehensive Development Plan, and the Zoning Ordinance. Let us take the opportunity of the expertise of Architect Jun Palafox to bring into reality our vision of a world-class Zamboanga!” said Mayor Climaco-Salazar. In her report, she pointed out radical developments in the city, in spite of falling victim to the infamous 2013 Zamboanga siege. “We have built back better,” she emphasized, saying that Zamboanga looks to be more promising and more resilient than ever. The mayor outlined the increase in local revenues, the presence of new businesses like CityMall and KCC, the creation of thousands of new jobs, and the influx of tourists, among others.

“The sleeping giant of Mindanao has awakened,” she stressed, saying that Zamboanga City now is more than ready to be at par, or even best other cities in the country and all over the world. The mayor also emphasized everyone’s vigilance to maintain peace and security in the region, saying that every resident has a stake in ensuring peace and order. “Threats still remain, and we need to strengthen our defenses. Denying a safe haven for terrorists is a shared responsibility,” she said. Mayor Climaco-Salazar said that without the support of the different sectors, the achievements would not have been possible. “We want everyone to contribute to this dream that we all aspire for.” “Antes pensaba kita dehao kita na maga otro lugar na manada aspeto, pero ahora, ya dale kanatun el oppotunidad para keda igual o mas bueno pa kanila, tiempo ya para dale mira cay mas bueno, mas grande el potential, mas unido, mas mafuerza y mas valiente el Ciudad de Zamboanga!” (Before, we thought that we were left far behind other cities in many aspects, but now, we have been given the opportunity to be like them, or even better. It is time to show the world that it is better, there is more potential, more unity, more strength and more courage here in the city of Zamboanga!)


Documents

One Mindanao - January 13, 2016