One Mindanao - January 17, 2014

Binalbal Festival: Masquerade Ball-Tudela StyleRutchie Cabahug-AguhobNorthern Mindanao

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 101

Palace says government agencies working to stop human trafficking

NATIONAL

8

OUR COVER

Today’s news...

Page 4

CENTRAL MINDANAO

RDC 12 pushes for the transfer of regional-line agencies to Koronadal City

89 scholars to join PSHS in Region 12 next school year

17 18

DENR-RPAO

Jorie C. Valcorza

Shahana Joy E. Duerme

Danilo E. Doguiles

NORTHERN MINDANAO

DENR 10 achieves all 2013 targets

Camiguin records rise in investments

12 14

CARAGA REGION

SOUTHERN MINDANAO

WESTERN MINDANAO

Popcom, LGU-Butuan ink PopDev Cooperation

DAR holds web-based LTI Tool Orientation in Surigao del Sur

Mall activities for Autism Consciousness Week

DPWH-9 implements over P5-B project in 2013

PNP Zambo Sibugay has 72 newly-promoted PNCOs, PCOs

22 23

31 33 35

Angie Balen- Antonio

Nida Grace P. Barcena

Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

Alma L. Tingcang

Page 6

Page 9

Page 10

Page 15

Page 20

Binalbal Festival: Masquerade Ball-Tudela Style

OUR COVER

COVER STORYBinalbal Festival: Masquerade Ball-Tudela Style

The tradition of neighbors wearing masks of any kind, such as, fairies, dwarfs, medieval figures, and the

like, to greet neighbors and share whatever food they have for the New Year has lived on in Tudela, a coastal, rice-producing town in Misamis Occidental.

For the fun of it and lack of a better term, this masquerade, which has been called “Binalbal”(like witches) Festival, not because they are witches” but because of the masks they wear, is actually an occasion of jubilation and thanksgiving of the town people for all blessing

received during the year and pleadings for graces in the incoming year. For more than five decades now, “Jan. 1, has always been the day and time to renew our friendship, to bridge gaps, to meet long lost relatives and to simply

enjoy life with our loved ones,” Mayor Estela R. Obot-Estaňo, said. These and the chances of being together with our loved ones are very precious gifts from God. “No matter what the complications, I hope we remain happy, because in essence, happiness is not expensive. It is in simple things that we feel truly

By Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

5

happy surrounded by our families and friends,” she said. Meanwhile, this year’s theme of the Binalbal Festival focused on “Makanunayong Pagsadya ug Panagdait sa Kalig-on ug Hugot nga Panaghiusang Tudelanhon Luyo

sa Kinaiyahan ug Tawhanong Kakulang (Sustainable Celebration of Harmonious and Friendly Relations for Stronger, Closely United People of Tudela Amidst Threats of the Environment and Lack of Human Resources).” The festival started with a Pamukaw (Wake up Serenade) at 6:00 a,m., Jan. 1, followed by the assembly of participants at the Raagas Park at 12:30 p.m., and parade to the Municipal Plaza where the final showdown was held at 1:00 p.m. To spice up the occasion, the participants were categorized into individual and group entries with corresponding cash prizes for winners and consolation prizes for non-winners. Individual entries included the Robot (Mechanized Toys), Dagkung Prutas (Giant Fruits), Labing Kataw-anan (Most Comical) and Super Heroes/Disney Characters. Included in the group entries were the Ethnic Costume, Black Knights,

Duwendes (Dwarfs), Engkanto (Fairies), Foreign Costume, Karusa (Floats), Kalag (Zombies) and Arches.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2014 6

President Aquino lauds DSWD’s response to recent calamities

President Benigno Aquino III extolled the dedication and commitment of the employees of the Department of Social

Welfare and Development (DSWD) in attending to recent disasters during the 63rd anniversary of the agency held in Quezon City on Thursday.

Across the Nation

In his speech, President Aquino lauded the steadfastness and resilience of DSWD employees who remained

focused on their duties despite criticisms in light of the successive calamities that hit the country last year.


“Hindi naman po kalabisang sabihin na kung minsan, kulang sa konsuwelo ang trabaho ninyo, sana ho kung minsan lang. Madalas, mas marami ang batikos kaysa pasasalamat, mas mahaba ang listahan ng reklamo kaysa papuri. Sa kabila nito, natutuwa ako, nabibilib ako, na wala akong nababalitaang isa man sa inyo na nagwagayway ng puting bandila para sabihing ‘sumusuko na kami’,” he said.

“Marami kayong hinarap na trahedya at pasakit pero nananatili kayong tagapagsulong ng pagbangon ng mga kapwa ninyo Pilipino. Dahil diyan, personal kong pinasasalamatan ngayon ang bawat isa sa inyo sa tapang at dedikasyong ipinakita ninyo habang ginagampanan ang inyong tungkulin,” he added.

President Aquino specifically cited the Zamboanga crisis, earthquake in the Central Visayas and the devastation of Super Typhoon Yolanda in the Eastern Visayas as among the calamities and problems addressed by the DSWD last year.

President Aquino likewise commended the dedication and hard work showed by Secretary Dinky Soliman at the height of the calamities.

“Pati ho ang ating butihing kalihim, kung minsan nagme-meeting po kami nakapikit na siya. Pero tumatango naman at sumasagot naman sa tamang oras. Minsan lang ho nagpa-pause ako at hinihintay ko lang hong dumilat naman po,” he recalled.

Aside from the efforts of the agency in promoting social welfare, the President also stressed the department’s mandate in advancing development in the country.

He underscored the nearly 4 million households that have been assisted by DSWD through the Pantawid Pamilya Program. He also cited the 334,158 households that have been part the Sustainable Livelihood Program; the P1.53-billion pension for senior citizens; P2.85-billion spent for the Supplemental Feeding Program to feed 1.45 million children; and the 3,541 household beneficiaries of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services or KALAHI-CIDSS.

He noted that the government is targeting about 841,000 households that will benefit from the KALAHI-CIDSS, which aims to empower ordinary citizens to actively participate in community projects that will reduce poverty.

“Sana po huwag kayong magsawa na makipagtulungan sa akin upang maibalik ang pagtitiwalang ipinagkaloob ng mamamayang Pilipino. Sa husay ng trabaho ninyo dito, nararamdaman kong magiging mas malawak, mas mabilis, mas pangmatagalan pa ang magagawa nating pagkalinga at pagpapaunlad sa kalagayan ng ating mga kababayan—ang ating mga boss—kahit na gaano pa ito kahirap,” the President said. PND


The government expressed its determination to fight human trafficking and has instructed concerned agencies to

intensify their efforts in addressing it.


“I would like to emphasize that our government is determined to stop human trafficking in all its forms and manifestations through concerted action by all concerned government agencies in cooperation with other countries,” Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a press briefing on Thursday in Malacanang.

Reports said Australia, the US, and the UK are investigating child sex abuse cases in the Philippines.

Asked if the Palace will instruct the NBI and the PNP to look further into the child sex abuse issue, Coloma said that even before the publication of the report, the government has been working to address it.

“Let me point out that even before the publication of this report, the government has already committed itself to doing everything that needs to be done through an inter-agency effort, through legislation, and through other administrative measures to stop this trafficking,” Coloma said noting that the matter is a top priority for the government.

The government is also addressing cyber crimes happening in the country, he said.

One of the major initiatives is the crafting of the Cyber Crime Prevention Law which has been brought to the attention of the Supreme Court for clarifications. PND

9FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2014


More than 9,000 ship passengers stranded due to bad weather -- PCGThe Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Friday said that a total of 9,291

passengers from different ports in Bicol, Visayas, and Mindanao have been stranded due to bad weather condition prevailing in that part of the country.

In particular, the stranded passengers were from Cebu, Maasin, Masbate, Sorsogon, Camarines Sur, and Surigao.

The PCG has temporarily suspended sea travel in some parts of the archipelago due to big waves and strong winds brought about by the low

pressure area (LPA) which developed to Tropical Depression “Agaton,” the first storm that hit the country this year.

“Agaton” was spotted 150 kilometers northeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur as of 12 p.m. Friday.


Young inventors showcase Innovative science products at RICE by Trevie Lorenz Espinosa

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Anti-theft devices, seawater-to-drinkable water converter, automatic rain shield, solar power bank for cell phones and other gadgets were just some of the innovative products of young inventors from different schools in Region 10 showcased in the opening ceremony of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE) held January 15 at the SM Event Center here.


A total of seven schools (from secondary to tertiary levels) entered the contest particularly Misamis Occidental National High School-Oroquieta, Philippine Science High School-Main, Philippine Science High School-Central Mindanao Campus, Gusa Regional Science School, Misamis Oriental General Comprehensive High

School, Liceo de C a g a y a n University and Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan University. One of the science products showcased in the contest-exhib i t was PSHS-Central Mindanao Campus’ Desalinator Kit for Natural Disasters.

It is a box-like device used to separate freshwater from saltwater in order to have drinkable water. According to the young inventors from PSHS-Central Mindanao, the device is best used when living in


DENR 10 achieves all 2013 targets

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Region 10 (DENR 10) has exceeded its targets for 2013, reporting 104 percent achievement rate for the year.

by DENR-RPAO

Regional Executive Director Ruth M. Tawantawan said “Region 10 turned the challenges into opportunities to better our best in 2013 as espoused by our Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje.” She said that close coordination with various stakeholders was undertaken to resolve issues confronted by DENR in Northern Mindanao. Tawantawan thanked all DENR partners from the local government units, non government organizations, academe, military, police, Indigenous People’s, industry, youth, media,

religious and civic groups and communities for the support extended to DENR in the implementation of its programs, projects and activities. “As we embark on another challenging year, we hope that we continue to enlighten the people to act now to save our environment,” Director Tawantawan added. Looking back, the Forest Management Service (FMS) accomplished 101% of its targets in 2013. The FMS is tasked to perform three of the six priority programs of the department namely the National

coastal areas, especially if when in a time of water unavailability due to natural calamities. The contest-exhibit has six categories: the Outstanding Invention or Tuklas Award, the Outstanding Utility Model, the Outstanding Industrial Design, Outstanding Creative Research and the Outstanding Student Creative Research for secondary and tertiary levels. Moreover, the sole winner of

the competition will qualify for the National Invention Contest, to be held this year. The three-day Regional Invention Contest and Exhibit is spearheaded by the DOST Region 10 and its Technology Application and Promotion Institute, Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines and Innovative and Technical Support Office, pursuant to Republic Act 7459 or known as “Inventors and Invention Incentives Act of the Philippines.”


Greening Program (NGP), Anti-Illegal Logging Campaign and “Balik Probinsya” Program. A total of 25,795 hectares were established and planted with 13,530,025 various species of both indigenous/premium forest and fruit tree seedlings. Region 10 accomplished 109% on the implementation of the NGP. Under the anti-illegal logging campaign, DENR 10 was able to confiscate 318.05 cubic meters of various species of logs, lumber and flitches. Some 8,600 linear meters of rattan poles, 16 units of conveyances, two motorcycles and one chainsaw were confiscated by DENR and its partners from the military, police, local government units, civil society organizations, communities and other concerned groups. Characterization of the Bulanog – Pigkutin watershed containing an area of 19,517 hectares was conducted last year. The Bulanog - Pigkutin watershed is one of the eight sub-watersheds of the Cagayan de Oro River Basin. DENR also updated the integrated watershed management plan of the Mandulog watershed with an area of 82,500 hectares. Director Tawantawan clarified that there are Central Office-based funds released to the region during the third or fourth quarter of 2013. The funding for the reforesting of some 3,000 hectares in the hinterland barangays of Cagayan de Oro City under Republic Act 10452 sponsored by Congressman Rufus B. Rodriguez (2nd district of Cagayan de Oro City) was released early part of December

2013. Initial activities undertaken include ground validation for the identified planting sites and meetings with People’s Organizations (POs). Other Central Office-based funds released during the 3rd and 4th quarter of 2013 include the 8,000 hectares NGP sites of the Bukidnon Forest Inc. and 362 hectares plantation assisted by the Heneliban Foundation, Inc. in the province of Bukidnon. The Land Management Service (LMS) surpassed its targets by 111%. Some 3,733 residential free patents were awarded to qualified beneficiaries. These patents were transmitted to the Register of Deeds. The target for the year was 3,468 patents. Cadastral Survey Projects were implemented in 23 municipalities/cities in the region. This activity is intended to provide correct data baseline as for the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) distribution. Meanwhile, the Protected Areas, Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Service (PAWCZMS) implemented seven major programs and projects namely Protected Area (PA) Management, Biodiversity Conservation Program, Tarsier Conservation Program, Philippine Eagle Conservation Program, and Marine Resources Management through the Integrated Coastal Management Program, Sustainable Coral Reef Ecosystem Management Program and Wetland Management. The sector got 100% of its targets for CY 2013. The accomplishment of the year was highlighted with the proclamation of Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park


Camiguin records rise in investmentsby Jorie C. Valcorza

MAMBAJAO, CAMIGUIN – Camiguin reported a 20 percent rise in investment, last year, with P586-million worth of capital recorded.

The infrastructure and facilities sector brought in more than half of the pie or worth P286-million investments in the province, followed by the services sector with P262-million, trading at P38-million, and P.5-million from the manufacturing sector. Data of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) showed that these investments, together with the government’s employment program, generated more than 20,000 jobs last year. Top investments in the province for the year 2013 include operations

in the line with agriculture for new rising farms, tourism support services, commercial arcade, trade, and more. The province is likewise intensifying its local products potential into the international market. Eyed to be supported under the Export Pathway Program (EPP) of the government are the items showcased in last year’s International Food Exhibition (IFEX), to include the Maestrado Tablea (Cacao Choco), Soling’s (Peanut Brittle) Food Products, and the Vjandep Bakeshop’s Pastel (milk bun) which will penetrate China and Hong Kong markets, this year.

in Misamis Occidental as an ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Heritage Park. This brings to two ASEAN Heritage Parks in the region. Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park in Bukidnon is the first proclaimed ASEAN Heritage Park in the region. The Ecosystems Research and Development Service (ERDS) also implemented 18 Research, Development and Extension Projects (RDEPs). Seven of the 18 ongoing

RDEPs were completed in 2013. The General Administrative and Support Services (GASS) garnered 110% of its accomplishment for CY 2013. The men and women of the Administrative and Finance divisions, Human Resources Development Division, Legal Division, Planning and Management Division and the Regional Public Affairs Office were instrumental in surpassing the targets.


GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- Some 407 police commissioned and non-com-missioned officers in Soccsksargen Region recently received promotions, an officer of the Police Regional Office 12 announced.

PNP promotes 407 police officers in R - 12By Danilo Doguiles


PSupt Romulo Estocapio, public information officer of PRO 12, told Philippines Information Agency the newly promoted formally received their new ranks on Monday, January 13 in a mass oath-taking and donning of ranks at the regional headquarters in Barangay Tambler, this city.

Among those who were upgraded to higher positions were 49 police commissioned officers (PCOs) and 362 police non-commissioned officers (PNCOs)

Of the PCOs, 4 police chief

inspectors were promoted to police superintendents and 6 police senior inspectors were upgraded to police chief Inspectors.

Meanwhile, 10 former police inspectors are now police senior inspectors and 25 former senior police officers (SPO) 4 are now police inspectors.

On the other hand, among the PRO 12’s PNCOs, 11 SPO3s got the next higher position as SPO4 while 51 SPO2s were promoted to SPO3; 12 SPO1s to SPO2; and 3 Police Officer (PO)3 to SPO1.

The largest bulk of promoted personnel consisted of 233 PO2s who are now PO3 and 54 PO1s who are now PO2s.

Deputy Director for Operations PSSupt Sergio Dimandal, who represented OIC Police Regional Director Manolito Labador at the ceremony told the newly promoted officers: “Since you believe in yourself that you deserve this promotion, walk tall and be fair.”

He also reminded them of their sworn responsibility to keep the public safe and emphasized that their promotion is could with much bigger responsibilities that they must fulfill.

In response,PSupt Joefiel Siason, the most senior among the promoted officers,


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato—The Regional Development Council (RDC 12) continues pushing for the long delayed transfer of all regional-line agencies to Koronadal City, the regional center and seat of Soccsksar-gen Region.

RDC 12 pushes for the transfer of regional-line agencies to Koronadal CityBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

This, according to RDC 12 acting chair and National Economic and D e v e l o p m e n t Authority (NEDA 12) regional director Arturo G. Valero is to create easy access to government services.

“With this, it is appropriate to fast track budgeting process so that all agencies can fully transfer to Prime Regional Center (PRC) situated in Barangay Carpenter Hill,” Valero added.

On March 2004, President Gloria Macapal-Arroyo signed the Executive Order No. 34 series of 2004, designating Koronadal City as the center of Region 12 and the

seat of the regional government.Koronadal City planning and

development officer Engr. Agnes D. Daguro revealed that 36 regional-line agencies already acquired lots at the PRC.

Out of this number, six have

thanked all who have been part of their promotion and encouraged his fellow police officers to be more dedicated with their work.

He ended his message by saying: “Tungkulin nating pagsilbihan at

panatilihin ang katahimikan ng ating pamayanan. Let us make Region 12 a safer place to live, work and do business.” (DEDoguiles-PIA 12/ WBVillaflores-PRO 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato-- Eighty-nine grade six pupils from Soccsksargen Region and other parts of Mindanao and Luzon have quali-fied to enroll at the Philippine Science High School – Soccsksargen Re-gion Campus (PSHS-SRC) in Barangay Paraiso, this city, in the coming school year.

already contructed office buildings and transferred to the area, one is currently constructing its faciliest while others are still in the process of signing Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the city local government.

The RLAs which have to the PRC include the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Bureau of the Treasury (BOT).

On the other hand, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) has an on-going construction for its building while the Department

of Labor and Employment (DOLE) had its groundbreaking ceremony on November 25 last year.

Daguro said that other agencies have not yet transferred due to problems on funds for the construction of the office, yet these agencies are working out on the problem.

Meanwhile, South Cotabato 2nd District Rep. Ferdinand L. Hernandez pointed out to operationalize the role of Koronadal City as the seat of the region not only because it is mandated in the executive order but also of its location and security.

“With the Prime Regional Center, key benefits such as employment generation will be given to people. To realize this, we have also to support and promote regional growth amidst our differences and political affiliations,” Hernandez emphasized. (SJDuerme-PIA12)

89 scholars to join PSHS in Region 12 next school yearBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

Said number comprised those who took the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) of the PSHS National Competitive Examination on October 12, 2013, passed, and qualified as

freshmen students or Grade 7 in the K-12 system of PSHS-SRC at the opening of classes in June.

Dr. Zenaida P. HR Laidan, DOST 12 regional director confirmed in a press


release to the Philippine Information Agency 12, these consist of 76 qualifiers from the Soccsksargen Region and the rests were from Davao Region, Marawi City, and Quezon City.

Twenty five are from General Santos City, 23 from South Cotabato 10 from Davao City, 6 from Koronadal City, 6 from Tacurong City, and 4 each from Cotabato City from Kidapawan City and Sultan Kudarat province.

Two students are from North Cotabato and another two from Sarangani.

Three students are from Marawi City, Tagum City, and Quezon City

Laidan said, the PSHS annually offers the scholarship to interested top ten percent of the graduating elementary grade pupils from duly recognized schools by the Department of Education (DepEd) to apply for the scholarship.

A Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) designed to measure Scientific Ability, Quantitative Ability, Abstract Reasoning and Verbal Aptitude of the pupil is administered only once for the examinees to qualify for the scholarship.

The PSHS, which operates as an attached agency of the DOST, is a specialized public high school system that focuses on high quality science-based education and training, that continuously contribute to nation-building by creating a critical mass of

scientists and engineers.PSHS-SRC started its operation

last year. Its campus is located, adjacent to

the state-of-the-art Philippine National Halal Laboratory and Science Center of DOST-12, being constructed in Barangay Paraiso.

Still under construction, PSHS-SRC, according to PSHS Executive Director Dr. Josette Biyo, will be a “smart campus” which could cost at least P200 million when completed.

When completed, the campus will feature modern academic buildings, complete research and laboratory facilities as well as dormitories or housing facilities and will also establish alternative learning centers within the campus to cater to the needs of other “gifted students” in the area.

“This is part of the efforts to put up a PSHS campus in every administrative region across the country to bring closer to the grassroots quality education highly focused on science, technology and mathematics,” Dr. Laidan said.

PSHS-SRC is the country’s 12th and the third in Mindanao; the other two are in Northern Mindanao and the other in the Davao region.

Students at PSHS system are subsidized by the national government. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12/DOST 12)


Local governance reforms shared in Delgosea conferenceBUTUAN CITY -- Winfried Wicklein, Principal Country Specialist of Asian Development Bank (ADB) Thailand and one of the speakers during the Democratic Local Governance in Southeast-Asia (Delgosea) Conference held on Thursday in Bangkok, Thailand has shared his company’s reforms on decentralization.

By Jennifer P. Gaitano


“ADB has worked on decentralization reforms in a number of ASEAN countries, mainly by addressing the fiscal and administrative dimensions to bridge the gap between discretion and accountability. Examples include the Philippines and Indonesia, which are fairly advanced on decentralization reforms, and Cambodia where the initial decentralization frameworks are being established,” said Wicklein.

The ADB has valued transparency through giving support to full disclosure of official documents by local administrations; implementation of financial management information systems.

As to accountability, Wicklein bared that own revenue collection, performance monitoring systems

for service delivery, and instruments for dialogue and feed back for local constituents were achieved. As to the efficiency, proliferation of performance-based grants, is linked to the achievement of minimum standards on financial management; evaluation mechanisms of local government that assist in determining the quality of capital investments.

Wicklein elaborated that the general trends on a more recent policy dialogue on local governance and decentralization reforms include: enhanced focus on performance–based monitoring tools that allow adequate accountability of local government to their constituents; support to the implementation of information


Popcom, LGU-Butuan ink PopDev CooperationBUTUAN CITY - Strengthening partnership between the Commission on Population (Popcom) and the local government of Butuan on the integration of population concerns into plans and programs city-wide has been formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by both parties on January 9, 2014, this city.

Popcom represented by the Executive Director Juan Antonio A. Perez III and the City Mayor Hon. Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. recognized the relevance of MOU for technical cooperation on Population and Development (POPDEV) Integration in local governance.

As cited in the MOU, Popcom

shall provide technical assistance to the LGU in developing appropriate tools, processes, methodologies to be integrated in the local development plans.

Popcom Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano disclosed that the population and development integration is a population management

By Angie Balen- Antonio

disclosure and transparency policies at the sub-national level; design and implementation of performance-based infrastructure funds for local governments; and sustained emphasis on gender mainstreaming in policy formulation and implementation.

“It is important to take a long-term view on relatively new transparency and accountability processes and systems to become institutionalized at the local level,” stressed Wicklein.

There is also a need to continue to create enabling conditions for social accountability initiatives to take root at the local level through

ongoing reforms in fiscal, regional administration, own source revenues and public financial management issues while capacity building efforts should include not only the national and local institutions, but also the local citizen groups to equip them with tools for meaningful interaction with local officials.

Wicklein also emphasized that for decentralization to work, local constituents must be able to convey their preferences and priorities for service delivery to local representatives and to monitor the actions of local governments.


strategy that enable institutions to create an enabling environment for people to achieve their development goals through well-planned and happy families.

“Recognizing the importance and necessity of integrating population dimensions in development initiatives can contribute to policies and programs that will help government attain a well-managed population,” he

quoted.Acting on its role, Popcom

also turned-over various IT equipment to the Population Office of Butuan in support of the institutionalization of the population program.

It can be recalled that POPDEV Integration was adopted as among the strategies in the City’s Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP), and in the Congressional – City Development Agenda.

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

Information to Empower FilipinosDAR holds web-based LTI Tool Orientation in Surigao del Sur

TANDAG CITY -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) conducted a 2-day orientation on the Web-Based Land Tenure Improvement (LTI) Operational Tool to technical personnel of DAR-Surigao del Sur.

The web-based LTI tool is a tracking system used to find easily the records of the status of the lands acquired or covered under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).

The tool is being developed to provide streamlined data processing support to Land Acquisition and Distribution (LAD) activities in the field offices.

The system caters the following Land Acquisition & Distribution (LAD) processes such as: identification and

documentation; land survey; land valuation and land distribution.

“Trainers from the Management Information System of DAR Central Office served as the resource speakers of the activity,” said DAR information officer Myra Yu.

She also added that the land transaction accomplished by their office will now be incorporated in the system where each beneficiaries has a corresponding folder’s name that can be easily to accessed.

Dominga MallongaDOST-Caraga Regional Director

for more details visit us DOST National Website: http://www.dost.gov.phDOST Caraga Website: http://caraga.dost.gov.ph


Brgy. Marayag still exists; large portion remains despite debris flow

DAVAO ORIENTAL—Large portion of Barangay Marayag in Lupon, Davao Oriental has remained after a debris flow swept one purok of the barangay, a geologist of the Mines and Geo-sciences Bureau (MGHB) XI said. In an interview, MGB chief geologist Beverly Brebante said only the central purok Madasigon of Barangay Marayag was affected by

the rush of flood water and debris which she assessed as “debris flow” occurrence that happened on January 12, 2014 at 4:00 a.m. Based on her initial assessment after her ocular visit on Jan. 14, Brebante said the debris flow burst from tributary creeks that got clogged with accumulated debris carried by huge volume of floodwater as a result of the low pressure area (LPA) induced heavy

rains. The debris flow spread 150 meters wide and 220 meters long, carrying one-meter to two-meter thick mud with boulders, stones and logs, she said. Brebante declared the area run over by the debris flow as “no build zone” but she was able to immediately identify two sites for relocation near the affected purok.


One relocation site recommended is in Purok DTM which is about about 200 meters from Purok Madasigon and one at the Redulla property (still within Purok Madasigon), about 300 meters away from the debris flow site. Her declaration as “no build zone” was based on her findings that such place had been experiencing debris flow, though in small degree, every after about 10 years. “Considered nga no build zone na jud na siya. (That ultimately can be considered as no build zone,),” she said. Meanwhile, Lupon Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) and Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer Cirila Cobero in a separate interview denied reports that the entire Marayag was washed out. She, however, confirmed reports that major facilities of the barangay were damaged particularly the health center and the day care center which she said both got filled with mud and logs. She also revealed that the old barangay hall was swept away by the strong flood current last Sunday and that the new Marayag Barangay Hall got half-filled with debris and mud.“Dili na jud magamit. (They can no longer be used.)” she said referring to the barangay hall, the health and the daycare centers. The debris flow in Marayag rendered 65 houses as totally damaged and 135 houses, partially damaged.Lupon executive assistant to the

mayor, Benjamin Pacites Jr viewed families with partially damaged houses as “homeless” as they are required to leave their place ”because the area they used to live has now become a disaster prone area.” On the other hand, Cobero attributed the low level of casualty in Barangay Marayag to the disaster preparedness and the close disaster pre-emptive monitoring that the local government had made even prior to the onslaught of the debris flow.She revealed that there was “zero casualty” when the debris flow occurred on Sunday as the local government enforced pre-emptive evacuation.T wo were monitored dead due to drowning the following day when the victims crossed a creek with surging floodwaters, she said. She also said that the local government was quick in deploying the needed equipment particularly, pay-loader and backhoe, on the day of the debris flow occurrence to open landslide-roads leading to the Marayag, about two hours away from Lupon poblacion. “Our mayor went there and brought along relief goods,” she said in vernacular. The 701st Infantry Brigade also sent, on Sunday, the 28th Infantry Battalion to assist the local government unit in responding to the emergency situation in Marayag. Provincial Governor Corazon Malanyaon also recently visited the area to assess the situation. (PIA XI/ Jeanevive Duron Abangan)


Mall activities for Autism Consciousness Week slatedDAVAO CITY- The Autism Con-sciousness Week which will be celebrated on January 19-25 will feature several mall-based activi-ties. Slated to be held this January 19 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. the program is an inspirational talk followed by an Angel’s Walk to be held at the SM Lanang Premiere. The talk will be held at the Cinema 6 then will be followed by an AngelsWalk towards the mall’s fountain court. A stress management workshop will be held on the 23rd at the SM City Davao Annex (Ecoland) Event Center. The activity is aimed for parents and guardians caring for persons with autism. Registration is for free and will open at 5:30 p.m. A Sensory Friendly Movie screening will be held on January

25, 2014 at SM Lanang. For a ticket priced at P100, persons with autism can watch the movie The Nut Job in a moviehouse recreated to have a comfortable setting with special audiences. Characteristics of the movie screening will have a well-lighted cinema, a lower sound volume, PWAs allowed to bring their own snacks and welcoming audience to get-up, dance, walk, shout, sing during the screening. The Autism Consciousness Week activities is organized by the Autism Society of the Philippines in cooperation with SM malls. The event is intended to help promote awareness of autism among Filipinos through the participation of individuals, private and public institutions. (PIA/RG Alama)


ZNPPO holds mass oath-taking for 177 new police non-commissioned officersBy Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - The Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Police Office (ZNPPO) recently held mass oath-taking for the 177 newly promoted police non-commissioned officers.


ZNPPO holds mass oath-taking for 177 new police non-commissioned officers

DPWH-9 implements over P5-B project in 2013 By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-9 has implemented infrastructure projects all over Zamboanga Peninsula with over P5 billion budget in 2013. Regional Information Officer Ma. Carla Miñoza of DPWH-9 said

The mass oath-taking and pinning of ranks ceremony was held Tuesday at the Philippine National Police (PNP) provincial headquarters Camp Hamac in Sicayab this city. Led by Sr. Supt. James B. Mejia, provincial director, and other officials of ZNPPO, the ceremony was also witnessed by the families, relatives and friends of the newly promoted police personnel. Among those promoted to SPO4 were Arnold G. Tercena, Amando Sumondong, Robert S. Tingas, Alpha A. Chiong; and Joel E. Diamante of the ZNPPO, Arturo G. Mante of the Aviation Security Group assigned at

Dipolog City Airport, and Ruben T. Sarita from the Crime Laboratory. In his message, Mejia congratulated the newly promoted non-commissioned officers and urged them to do work better. He also reminded them of the corresponding responsibility that goes with their promotion. The simple celebration punctuated with the ceremonial picture taking with Mejia, other ZNPPO officials and the newly promoted personnel with their loved ones. The promotion took effect last December 31, 2013.


“the region has a total programmed amount of P5.467 billion for 1,095 infrastructure projects. As of yearend, the office completed 413 projects, 500 still ongoing, and 182 remaining with contract already processed. As of December 31, 2013, the actual physical accomplishment rate of the projects is 75.02 percent.” DPWH has strived to meet all the demands in the project implementation, especially with the directive of the Secretary Rogelio Singson to fast-track the implementation of high impact projects in the country and to effectively deliver quality infrastructure services to the public in support of the infrastructure program set by President Benigno C. Aquino. DPWH-9 completed eight pro-poor projects while two are still ongoing under the Investment Support Program (ISP) of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao amounting to P1,216,900. For National Road projects, DPWH has paved 86.59 percent of the arterial roads and 59.36 percent for secondary roads for a total of 96.774 kilometers all over region 9. However, the project implementation was not without a hiccup as the 23-day armed conflict between the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and government forces here in the city greatly affected the implementation of various projects. DPWH, instead, diverted all efforts

in responding to the needs of affected families in providing relief assistance, food and shelter to affected residents. The office also provided transport facilities for the evacuation of some victims. Along with other agencies, DPWH-9 now works on the ground to help rebuild the city with Secretary Singson as chairman of the Zamboanga City Roadmap to Recovery and Reconstruction (Z3R). The office will handle the construction of road network, drainage facilities and riverbank protection projects. The past year marked the realization of the “Policy Initiative” of DPWH-9 Regional Director Jorge U. Sebastian Jr., the first nationwide, that all bunkhouses for projects be constructed using the standard 1 classroom plan to be located in the elementary or high school compound nearest to the project location, complete with water supply, two comfort rooms, light and power connection. The bunkhouse and all facilities will be turned-over to the concerned Department of Education (DepED) officials upon completion. As of December 31, 2013, 29 were constructed with 9 bunkhouses completed. “Despite these challenges, DPWH-9 welcomes the year 2014 with renewed vigor, commitment and inspiration that the implementation of infrastructure projects will redound to a peaceful and prosperous region,” said Miňoza.


PNP Zambo Sibugay has 72 newly-promoted PNCOs, PCOs By Alma L. Tingcang

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay - Seventy-two newly promoted police non-commissioned officers (PNCOs) and police commissioned officers (PCOs) took their oath last Jan. 14 at the covered court of Ipil Municipal Plaza. PSSupt. Robert Roy V. Bahian, Philippine National Police (PNP)-Zamboanga Sibugay provincial director said of the 72 who were promoted, 4 are PCOs who took their oath at the PRO-9 in Zamboanga City while the rest are PNCOs. “This is for the 4th Quarter CY 2013 Regular Promotion Program of the PNP,” Bahian remarked. In a simple but meaningful program during the mass oath-taking and donning of ranks witnessed by the provincial command group, spouses, relatives and friends of the honorees, the promotion order was read by PSInsp Mary Grace R. Nevado. A message of inspiration was shared by Atty. Mario Jose T. Cunting, Provincial Director of the Civil Service Commission who was

the guest of honor of the event. Atty. Cunting said only a few are given the opportunity to be in the government service. While there are vast opportunities, the PNP is also confronted with the enormous obligation to preserve the trust of the public. “There is no excuse for us to be complacent. Let us forget about “bahala na” or “pwede na yan”. We are all in a race to serve. A public service that is responsive, accessible, courteous and effective,” Cunting emphasized. The promotion of the PNP officers, according to PD Bahian, is seen to further boost the morale and capability of the police to curb criminality in their area of responsibility.

Documents

One Mindanao - January 17, 2014