One Mindanao - August 14, 2014

1st Iligan Rescue Olympics fosters teamwork Lorry V. GabuleNORTHERN MINDANAO

THURSDAY, AUGUST 14, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 241

Government ready to protect relatives of Maguindanao massacre victims, says Malacañang

NATIONAL

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NORTHERN MINDANAO

SOUTHERN MINDANAO

CARAGA REGION

WESTERN MINDANAO

CENTRAL MINDANAO

500 leaders attend full disclosure policy, disaster consciousness confab in MisOcc

Soldiers help build homes for typhoon Pablo victims

TESDA-13 chief welcomes new player in technical education, skills dev’t training

Surigao City biz group commits to enhance consumer welfare

Bayog MDRRMO conducts training on disaster risk reduction management

Search for 2014 Model OFW Family in ARMM opens

NorthCot LGU helps marginalized families avail more NFA rice

‘Gambler’ rebuilds life with DSWD

Bayog town attains zero crime following KKK implementation

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Information to Empower Filipinos

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Van Jorain O. Rufin

Robert E. Roperos

DTI-Surigao del Norte

Gideon C. Corgue

Olivers Ross Rivera

Shahana Joy E. Duerme

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Oliver B. Inodeo

Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

Claro A. Lanipa

1st Iligan Rescue Olympics fosters teamwork

1stIligan Rescue Olympics fosters teamwork

As a highlight to the observance of the 2014 National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM), barangays in

Iligan city competed in the 1st Iligan Rescue Olympics. Four barangays battled in the two-day competition, running a gauntlet of events that included first aid and vehicular extrication, high angle rescue and water rescue. Wefindthiseventforallvolunteers/rescueresponderstohavecamaraderieamong rescue teams in the city,promote the importance of refreshertrainings,andstrengthentheteamworkineachresponseteams,saidLambertoS.Macapagal, Iligan city disaster riskreductionandmanagement(ICDRRM)Officer. For the first aid and vehicularextrication,thescenariowasavehicularaccidenttookplaceatMandulogBridge.One patient was reported to be seenunconscious with blood coming fromhisheadandarm.

In the high angle rescue, thereis an unconscious patient in need ofemergency response in a rooftop on

by Lorry V. Gabule

COVER STORY

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1stIligan Rescue Olympics fosters teamwork

a three storey building in barangayHinaplanon.Afterreachingthepatient,the stairs suddenly becomes notpassable. The responders must nowrappelthroughthefrontofthebuildingin order to bring the patient to thehospital. For water rescue, about 50metersfromtheshorelineinbarangayAcmac,thereisacapsizedrubberboatand twovictims insideandneedanimmediate rescue wherein one ofthem is unconscious and the otheroneisconsciousbutanon-swimmer. Meanwhile,MacapagalsaidtheICDRRMCOfficeiscommittedtomakeIliganCityaresilientcommunity. It has been working side byside with the different barangays intraining their BarangayDisasterRiskReductionandManagement(BDRRM)

Response Team with necessaryassistanceequipping themto respondinemergencies. He said it has been almost fouryearssince itstartedtomaterialize itscommitment.Almostallofthebarangaysin Iligan City had been trained. Butbecause of the city’s environment iscontinuouslydegrading,thestrengthof

thecalamitiesalsovaries. Hence, the city government ofIliganencouragedallthebarangaysinthecitytohavearesponseorrefreshertraining,saidMacapagal. FirstinIligantohappen,andonlylimited barangays responded to theinvitation, but we are hopeful and wechallenge more barangay participantsto join in the next Olympics, saidMacapagal. Further,thecompetitionhelpstheorganization in disseminating theseideals and also serves as a tool tomeasure the effects of the trainingsgivenandwhathasstilltobedoneforthefuturetrainings. ICDRRMO cited the steadfastsupportofitspartnerprojectproponentstoincludetheBureauofFireProtection(BFP) who took charged of the FireFightingandFireRescueTechniques;PhilippineCoastGuard(PCG)onWaterRescue;PhilippineRedCross(PRC)onVehicularAccidentExtricationandFirstAid;andICDDRMOonRopeRescue. BarangayTibangawasproclaimed

over-all champion among other threeparticipating barangays Dalipuga,UpperTominobo,andVillaverde. Prizes at stakewere 1,500 cashplus trophy, 1,000 cash and 500.00cash for the first, second and thirdwinners, respectively. The panel oftheboardof judgeswascomposedofrepresentatives from ICDRRMO,BFP,PCG,andRedCross. A get-together-dinner and theawardingceremonywerewitnessedbyemployeesofthecitygovernmentduringthe Monday flag raising ceremony attheBuhanginanHillsAmphitheatre,cityhall. MayorCelsoG.RegenciahandedovertheprizesandlaudedthesuccessoftheOlympicsinitiatedbyICDRRMO,especiallytheparticipatingbarangays. Among activities for the NDCMmonth included were motorcade forawareness, the national simultaneousearthquake drill, fire drill, and forum/lectureonDRRMatthebarangayandinschools.

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President Aquino leads ceremonial turnover of assault rifles to Armed ForcesPresident Benigno S. Aquino lII led the ceremonial distribution of

newly acquired assault rifles to selected military personnel at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Thursday.

The acquisition of the rifles is part of the government’s efforts to modernize

the Armed Forces by enhancing the firearms capability of its soldiers,

Across the Nation

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especially those on the front line.In his speech, President Aquino

said the military could now depend on their guns -- and not just their guts – in serving and protecting the state.

Illustrating the military’s poor defense capability, he recalled a story shared to him by Marines guarding the Kalayaan Island Group.

He said there was an instance when the soldiers were forced to paint a coconut trunk black to deceive their enemies, who were pointing real cannons at them.

“Sa pagtitipon natin ngayon, pinapatunayan nating tapos na ang panahon kung saan dinadaan na lang sa tibay ng loob at diskarte ang pagtutupad sa tungkulin—tunay ngang kinakalinga ng estado ang mga kawal ng bayan,” he said.

The government has acquired a total of 50,629 assault rifles for the AFP.

The President said the first batch of 27,300 rifles was delivered last July, while the remaining 23,329 units will be delivered in December this year.

The acquisition of new firearms is part of the Joint Philippine Army–Philippine Marine Corps Assault Rifle Acquisition Project under

the AFP Modernization Program.Under the project, the AFP will

receive a total of 50,629 units of M4 rifles, 44,186 of which will go to the Army and 6,443 to the Navy.

Due to a transparent bidding process, President Aquino said the government was able to generate an estimated P1.2 billion savings from the project.

The approved budget for the contract was about P3.19 billion but the government acquired the rifles for only P1.94 billion.

The President said the savings will be used to procure another 12,657 assault rifles for the Philippine Army, to be delivered also in December.

The budget for the acquisition of rifles was sourced from the AFP Capability Upgrade Program, which was organized in 2012.

President Aquino was joined by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and AFP Chief Gregorio Pio Catapang during the event.

In his opening remarks, Catapang thanked the President for the acquisition of the rifles, saying that soldiers are still using early models of M16 and M16A1 rifles, which were used during the Vietnam war. PND

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“One of the things that we have really implemented is to make sure that the witnesses are covered under the Witness Protection Program,” Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a press briefing on Wednesday.

“That is very important for us—to protect them. And for those who are not covered by the Witness Protection Program, we would ask them and request them to join the program, so that they will not be put in harm’s way,” he added.

Lacierda advised those being offered money in exchange for their silence to file a complaint in court so that the Department of Justice could conduct an investigation.

“Otherwise, we won’t be able to act on it,” he said.

Lacierda however said it is not clear when the bribery attempt was made, considering that the prosecution has rested its case in the trial of the massacre.

The public, he said, is waiting for the defense to present its evidences. PND

Government ready to protect relatives of Maguindanao massacre victims, says Malacañang

The Department of Justice is ready to provide protection to the families of the victims of the Maguindanao massacre, following

reports about an attempt to bribe the widow of one of the victims, a Palace official has said.

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Philippines lauds European Union’s peace and development efforts in MindanaoA top Malacañang official has lauded the programs of the

European Union (EU) to promote peace and development in the Mindanao region, especially in the areas of poverty alleviation, promotion of human rights, and good governance.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said on

Wednesday the EU has been an active partner in the peace process in Mindanao and has


provided grants to civil society organizations that spearhead programs in peacekeeping and monitoring, confidence- and peace-building actions, as well as facilitate workshops and dialogues among stakeholders in the region.

“The EU is a member of the International Monitoring Team and has been a major development partner in Mindanao,” Coloma said. “We thank the EU for its decision to double its bilateral assistance to the Philippines of up to P19 billion for the next five years.”

Coloma’s statement comes on the heels of the visit of Lady Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Vice President of the European Commission, who visited the Philippines last month to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the EU and the Philippines.

According to data from the Department of Trade and Industry, the EU is the largest investor in the Philippines by stock, with total investments amounting to an estimated P440 billion, which have created an estimated

400,000 jobs in the country.Data from the Board of

Investments show net Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) flow from the EU amounted to about P645 billion last year, up from P551 billion in 2012. The EU bloc is the country’s third largest trading partner.

Coloma expressed appreciation to the EU for the bullishness in the country with increased investments in recognition of the significant reforms implemented by the Aquino administration to strengthen transparency and good governance. Early this year, the EU lifted its sanctions on Philippine carriers.

He also commended the EU’s call for a peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

“We are one with the EU in its position to ...oppose any unilateral attempt by any party to assert its territorial or maritime claims through the use of intimidation, coercion or force,” Coloma added.


75 uncalibrated weighing scales confiscated thru ‘Operation Timbangan’ in Iligan cityby DTI Iligan

ILIGAN CITY - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in collaboration with the Local Price Coordinating Council of Iligan City (LPCC-Iligan) has confiscated 75 units of uncalibrated weighing scales in a random ‘Operation Timbangan’ on August 12 at Pala-o and Central markets, this city.


75 uncalibrated weighing scales confiscated thru ‘Operation Timbangan’ in Iligan city

The monitoring team was spearheaded by the Permits and License Division of the City Mayor’s Office and the Economic Enterprise Development and Management Office (EEDMO) thru the Market Supervisor’s Office. Priority areas covered were the Bagsakan 1 and 2 and the wet market-stalls and stores selling vegetable, fruits, fish, rice, meat, dressed chicken, groceries and feeds, as well as meat shops. Also, roadside fruit vendors stationed along Cabili Avenue and Mercado Street were part in the monitoring. Out of 296 stores/stalls monitored, 72 stores were issued Notice of Violation for using uncalibrated weighing scales or a compliance rate of 75.67 percent to weights and measure.Compliance is primarily determined by the presence of the 2014 gold sticker. The sticker is a proof that

the weighing scale was checked annually. This year’s compliance rate is a marked improvement and a good indication that the market vendors were now more aware of their responsibility to use duly calibrated weighing scales in their selling activities, as compared to last year’s compliance rate of 54.53 percent only. “Before buying goods by weight or measure, always check the presence of the 2014 sticker with gold band and that the scale is on zero before you are served,” said Ruel B. Paclipan, provincial director, Department of Trade and Industry-Iligan City/Lanao del Norte. For the consumers, be vigilant of your rights to be afforded with the best value of your money, Paclipan said.

500 leaders attend full disclosure policy, disaster consciousness confab in MisOccby Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental - More than 500 barangay leaders of Misamis Occidental attended the Provincial Summit on the Full Disclosure Policy (FDP) and Disaster Consciousness Congress held at Naomi’s Botanical Gardens, Ozamiz City, last Aug. 7-8.


Focused on the theme: “Kalihokang Alerto sa Misamis Occidental (KAMO)-Kaabag sa mga Barangay Batok sa Nagkalain-lain nga Hulga sa Atong Panahon (Alert Activities of Misamis Occidental- Partner of the Barangays Against the Different Threats of Our Time),” the summit was participated by the 490 barangay captains from both the First and Second Congressional Districts of the province. It was also attended by Members of the Provincial Board led by Gov. Herminia M. Ramiro and the following officials of Liga ng Mga Barangay (LMB): Rodin M. Romualdo, Region 10 LMB President, Edmund R. Abesamis, National LMB President and Lorenzo B. Zuniga, Jr., LMB Secretary General. Meanwhile, participants were given an overview of the FDP of the Department of Interior

and Local Government (DILG), as contained in Memorandum Circular No. 2013-140, by Sanivier G. Patoc, DILG Provincial Director of Misamis Occidental. Patoc also discussed the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) and the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) No. 10632, an “Act to Postpone the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Elections.” Included in the discussions/presentations were the Smoke-Free Campaign and Nutrition Updates of the province and the enforcement of RA 9262 or “The Act on Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC).” On the other hand, Gain Paul De Barras, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Coordinator discussed the mechanics of KAMO and the salient features of RA 10121 or “The Philippine Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.”

‘Gambler’ rebuilds life with DSWDby Oliver B. Inodeo

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - A beneficiary of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here revealed that she was engaged in illegal gambling that almost ruined her family life.


‘Gambler’ rebuilds life with DSWD

Now she says she has turned her life around and is advocating for reform, helping other beneficiary use cash grants prudently. Marjorie Yecyec, a parent advocate of DSWD Northern Mindanao, said her life changes when her family becomes beneficiary of Pantawid Pamilya in 2008 under Set 1. Marjorie, who lives in Macabalan in this city, believes that the DSWD has taught her to work harder, to be diligent in what she does and to be participative in community works.“The Family Development Session has changed my life dramatically,” said Yecyec, who also disclosed that she used to drink alcohol before with her neighbors. “The FDS teaches us on how we can improve our lives and protect ourselves from risks, especially when our City Link Majalalil Flores and other resource speakers discussed on various topics like disaster preparedness, family relationships and marriage, good and effective parenting, community participation, health, among others,” she said. Marjorie, a barangay police officer and community health navigator of the Department of Health, claimed that she has more time now with her four daughters despite her hectic schedule. Marjorie, along with her neighbor and fellow parent advocate, Elsa Sabellana, is a regular resource person for DSWD during interviews with media practitioners.

Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program is a human development program of the national government that invests in the health and education of poor households, particularly of children aged 0-18 years old. It provides a monthly cash grant of a maximum of P1,400 for qualified households provided that they comply with the conditions set by the program. Families who fail to comply with certain conditions will not receive the benefit corresponding to the conditions and are given reminders by DSWD, the implementing agency of the program. “With the Pantawid Pamilya cash grants, I am no longer worried about whether I can send my children to school and provide for their health needs. I can now save some of our money, find more ways to earn more,” said Yecyec. She added that “with Pantawid Pamilya, I can make a difference in my home and in my community!”


CSC Caraga pushes institutionalization of PGS By Venus L. GarciaBUTUAN CITY –After completion of the initiation, compliance and proficiency stages of the Performance Governance System (PGS) Pathway, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Caraga pursued its position for the institutionalization of a competency-based human resource system.


In May 2010, the CSC adopt-ed the PGS, the local adaptation of the Balanced Scoreboard de-veloped at the Harvard University. In treading the PGS process, the CSC has directed its vision, iden-tified a new core purpose and set of values, and outlined strategic objectives and measures lead-ing to the fulfillment of its vision. “Thus, PGS is gearing towards improved public service delivery and establishing transparent and accountable system of gover-nance,” said CSC Caraga region-al director Resurreccion Pueyo. Pueyo said that when CSC adopted the PGS, the agency re-

stated its vision, mission, and core values. A strategy map was crafted that outlined the direction of becoming the Asia’s leading center of excellence for strate-gic human resource (HR) and or-ganizational development (OD). “We wish to align CSC’s new initiatives, thrusts and programs to the national leadership. PGS is centered to the objectives of shaping high performing, compe-tent and credible civil servants - more citizen and client-centered; more strategic in terms of for-mulating and implementing poli-cies; more results-oriented that overly-focused on procedures;


and more empowering and en-trepreneurial,” remarked Pueyo. Strategic initiatives un-der PGS were carried out to re-spond to the growing need for reform. CSC, as the lead imple-menter of Anti-Red Tape Act or ARTA, sought to promote trans-parency, simplify procedure, and expedite transactions. Pu-eyo underscored that it is neces-sary to keep effective practices to prevent graft and corruption. Starting July 2010, the CSC has administered the Report Card Survey (RCS), a mecha-nism provided in the ARTA used to rate agency performance and client satisfaction in terms of frontline service delivery. Agencies are rated for compli-ance with the requirements of ARTA and client satisfaction. Pueyo revealed that part of its creative program is the conduct of ‘ARTA Watch,’ where CSC offi-cials make a surprise visit to the frontline service offices at noon

time to check their compliance with ARTA such as the posting of Citizen’s Charter and observance of the ‘No Noon Break’ policy. Also, in terms of ensuring fairness and efficiency in perform-ing quasi-judicial functions, CSC targeted to shorten the resolu-tion time for administrative cas-es, from 60 days as prescribed by the 1987 constitution to 40 days. Included in the array of ob-jectives also are ensuring effi-cient management of financial resources and cultivating part-nership with local and interna-tional institutions measured by the number of priority programs implemented through technical cooperation with local and inter-national partners, stated Pueyo. PGS is a performance man-agement and measurement tool that aims to translate organiza-tional goals from ‘qualitative and word-based interpretations’ to ‘measurable targets and metrics.


Sunico said following in the trail blazed by the province of Surigao del Norte with the pio-neering establishment of a local-ly-initiated manpower training center back in 1993, the pro-vincial government under the dynamic leadership of Gov. Sol Matugas has created another

flagship infrastructure devoted to skills development – the PCTC. The TESDA chief of the re-gion also emphasized that with the mining sector as the major partner of the provincial govern-ment in this private-public part-nership (PPP) initiative, a new ground has been broken in the

TESDA-13 chief welcomes new player in technical education, skills dev’t training By Robert E. RoperosBUTUAN CITY - Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Caraga regional director Dr. Florencio F. Sunico, Jr. said the agency warmly welcomes the newly-inaugurated Provincial Community Training Center (PCTC) in Bad-as, Placer, Surigao del Norte, as new player in the field of technical education and skills development (TESD) in the region.


Surigao City biz group commits to enhance consumer welfare By DTI-Surigao del NorteSURIGAO CITY - The local business community here signified their commitment to improve delivery of services to their customers and partake on the responsibility to enhance the welfare of consumers during the Business Forum on Consumer Welfare sponsored by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) held on August 8, 2014 at Parkway Hotel, this city.

history of local government skills training provision in the region, making the PCTC one of a kind. “The opening of a new train-ing facility in a strategic location in the mainland area of the prov-ince is eagerly anticipated by the various TESD stakeholders par-ticularly the broad sector of the unemployed youths and adults, as it seeks to expand access to training opportunities in the un-derserved localities,” Sunico said. The official further stressed the advent of the PCTC is ex-pected to consolidate the efforts of the provincial government in pursuit of its manpower develop-ment thrust, as it confronts age-old issues of mismatch and skills gaps in the growth sectors of the economy and builds its capacity to compete in the labor market, both

in the domestic and global fronts. With the establishment of the training center in the prov-ince, Sunico said that TESDA is committed to fully provide tech-nical support to the training center’s operations, even as it strengthens its oversight and au-thority role over the other local training institutions in the region. Sunico bolstered that as TES-DA broadens access to skills train-ing programs and intensify efforts at making TESDA programs and services relevant, “we continue to play an engaged role in local ini-tiatives to ensure that the efforts of all TESD providers are coordi-nated, integrated and aligned to our strategic thrust of providing opportunities in human capital investment for inclusive growth.”


Surigao City biz group commits to enhance consumer welfare

The activity aimed to enlighten the entrepreneurs, business man-agers and their representatives on the benefits and advantages of im-proving the way they conduct their business particularly along the con-text of observing consumer protec-tion laws and welfare mechanism. During the forum, Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Rodrigo R. Matabaran explained the overview of the activity and stressed that the purpose of the activity is to enhance capabilities of business es-tablishments to undertake customers-centered operation that will improve the benefits and welfare of consumers. “More so with the upcom-ing ASEAN economic integration by 2015, the business sector will be fac-ing some challenges considering the increasing competition with the free flow of goods, services and invest-ments among member countries. This further sets the imperatives to level up the quality of service of the private sector and the government alike to keep the pace of current economic realities,” Matabaran said. Other topics discussed dur-ing the said forum include fair trade laws, product standards and con-sumer complaints procedures among others by Trade and Industry De-velopment Specialist Josephine D. Gabutin wherein she stressed the importance of religious compliance of fair trade laws to serve better their customers and avoid fines and penalties resulting from violations. Also various issues were raised during the forum including avail-ment of privileges of senior citi-

zens and sub-standards prod-ucts in the market among others. Surigao del Norte Consumers Organization (SUNCO) president and retired colonel Nestor Mindaña, dur-ing the open forum pointed out that establishments must extend the dis-count privileges entitled to senior citi-zens, while Surigao Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (SFCCI) press relation officer Benito Lim sug-gested that the government must ad-dress standards compliance at the manufacturers and importers level since the local establishments such as hardware and other traders merely buy what is available from their suppliers. Meantime, in her closing re-marks, Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (SCCI) president Concepcion R. Paqueo expressed her thanks to the DTI management head-ed by provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan for undertaking the activity as she learned some relevant guide-lines in conducting business within the backdrop of consumer welfare and protection, and she also encouraged the business community to be sen-sitive on the needs of their custom-ers that can result to some beneficial impacts on their operation in terms of continuing customers’ patronage. A total of 48 participants repre-senting the Surigao Chamber of Com-merce and Industry (SCCI), Surigao Filipino Chinese Chamber of Com-merce, Surigao del Norte Consum-ers Organization (SUNCO), Claver Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Claver Consumers Organiza-tion and various business establish-ments participated the said forum.


Package of P2-M shabu busted in Panabo

DAVAO DEL NORTE- An estimated P2-million worth of suspected sha-bu was seized yesterday (August

13) in Panabo City as the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) intercepted a package containing the drugs, which was transported through a local courier. PDEA Regional Director Emerson Rosales confirmed that a tricycle driver residing in Brgy. San Francisco, Panabo City identified as Ruel Gomban Reas (36) claimed the package containing the suspected shabu in a branch of a local courier in the city at around 4:00 in the afternoon yesterday.

Director Rosales said that they received a report from Manila

by Michael Uy


stated that a package containing drugs will be delivered through a local courier. “Upon the arrival of the package in the airport (Davao International Airport), our K9 dogs verified the presence of drugs in the package,” Rosales said. The package contained four sachets of suspected shabu placed in the soles of two pairs of sandals. Rosales assessed the drug to weigh around 200-250 grams with a street value of P 7,500 – P 9,000 per gram. Dir. Rosales said that they are still tracing the sender of the package although it stated that it came from a certain Mariama Antis of Baliwasan Tabuk, Zamboanga City. “We are still confirming on the details on the sender since the package arrived from Manila,” Rosales said. He said that there was already a coordination from Manila and elsewhere in the Philippines with regards to the transportation of the drugs. “Transporting drugs through a local courier is not new in the

country but this is definitely a first in the region,” he added. Sr. Insp. Frederick Deles, OIC Panabo Chief of Police, also said that an incident of drugs transported through a local courier was also a first in the city. Sr. Insp. Deles also revealed that Reas was part of the list of drug suspects that they were closely monitoring in the city. “We busted drug suspects in the city before however this suspect is certainly a part of a bigger syndicate,” Deles said. On the part of the local courier, Rosales said that they will be investigating their personnel for possible involvement in the crime. After the investigation, the PDEA will prepare a case against Reas for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act 9165). Reas and the drugs were still in the custody of PDEA as of yesterday; however, Deles said that the suspect will be detained in Panabo City. (PIA 11, Michael Uy)


Soldiers help build homes for typhoon Pablo victimsDAVAO ORIENTAL– Backing the government’s relentless efforts in providing permanent shelters to typhoon Pablo victims, the Philip-pine Army continues to partner with the provincial and national government in helping build per-manent homes in some areas in the hard-hit towns. Only recently, some 121 new homes, constructed by the Philippine Army,were turned over to beneficiaries in Brgy. Ban-ao in Baganga and Brgy.Alegria in Cateel last August 7. Commanding Officer of the 544th Engineer Construction Battalion, Lt. Col. Eldred Ragpala, said that this milestone is a testament of the Philippine Army’s genuine endeavor to help people restore their lives through ‘bayanihan’. Realized through the Modified Shelter Assistance Program (MSAP), the project implementation is executed through the collaboration of the national and provincial government and the Philippine Army. This program is bent on providing stable and long-term housing for typhoon-affected families in the east coast. While the construction cost was funded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the resettlement site was subsidized by the provincial government, the Philippine Army’s 544th Engineer Construction Battalion, on the

other hand,took charge ofthe labor counterpart. DSWD Provincial Coordinator, Gemma dela Cruz, during the turn over ceremony lauded the soldiers’ assistance in giving people an opportunity to start a new life. To date, there are already about 2,171 houses that have been turned over across the typhoon hard-hit areas of Cateel, Baganga and Boston, including those built by the Philippine Army. Aside from houses, the army’s construction team also helped build schools and other development projects. Davao Oriental Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon reminded the beneficiaries to also offer their counterpart by not only keeping their communities clean, but also help themselves improve their lives by seizing the abounding livelihood opportunities that would aid them break out from the clutches of poverty. Meanwhile, the Philippine Army urged the residents to help preserve the peace and order in their own communities. Lt. Col. Micheal A. Banua, 67th Infantry Battalion Commander, encouraged them to do their fair share in keeping their communities peaceful and become active in the government’s development efforts.(PIO with report from Van Jorain O. Rufin)


Creating friendly spaces for adolescents in clinics, schools, guidance centers pushedBy Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Young people possess a lot of energy that could be channeled to more fruitful and productive endeavor. But when left uncontrolled because of poor guidance and parenting, this energy could lead to misdemeanor and destructive behaviors.


The world observed International Youth Day on Aug. 12. Ironically, in spite of the energies of the young, not much fun fare or spectacle happened. Nevertheless, this is an opportune time for the adult community to look at how the youth in our society are being taken care of and being guided for the future. During the recent multi-sectoral consultative meeting on adolescence and youth reproductive health here in this city, the Department of Health (DOH) reported that there are 20 million adolescents aged 10-19 years old, and that one out of ten women aged 15-19 years old is already a mother. It added that STD, HIV and AIDS, drugs, alcohol and smoking are increasing among adolescents leading to health risky behavior among Filipino adolescents. Risky behavior means diseases and high cost on government health programs.

More than government spending, the future of this country is at stake because most of these young people will be our future leaders. Young as they are, vulnerable and easily swayed, institutions are challenged to shape and form them toward becoming active and productive participant for a better society. Adolescents are confronted with identity issues and sexuality concerns. Parents seldom talk about youth stuffs in the family and the growing kids share all their secrets and growing up escapades among themselves. The internet and the social media became their avenue to explore and discuss personal issues and concerns. This was recognized by concerned government agencies, and initiatives are being tested and created to reach out to more young people.


Last July 11, government agencies and non-government organization, including the academe, the military and police gathered to celebrate World Population Day. The gathering was also an occasion in which the different key government and non-government organizations shared their respective programs related to adolescence and youth reproductive health. At the consultation meeting with the theme, “Investing in Young People”, the stakeholders recognize the need for a youth-friendly space in clinics, health centers, guidance and counseling offices, and even at social welfare offices and barangay halls. Youth-friendly spaces require not only a desk or table or even a corner, but this include personnel that is equipped with skills and knowledge about the needs of adolescents and youth in the community.

These spaces must provide an atmosphere of trust and openness so that young people can comfortably share their personal thoughts and problems. Where there is openness and sharing, there will be opportunity for healing. A healed youth is a better youth. A better youth is a better society. Government agencies like the Population Commission-IX, the Isabela City Schools Division-DepEd, the Department of Health, the Isabela City Government, and the Philippine Information Agency along with non-government organizations like the Nagdilaab Foundation and the USAID programs (Mindanao Health Jhpiego, ENGAGE, MYDev), including the military and other security sectors have forged a partnership in providing consolidated interventions to address adolescence and youth reproductive health issues.


Bayog MDRRMO conducts training on disaster risk reduction managementBy Gideon C. Corgue

BAYOG, Zamboanga del Sur – The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO) conducted on Tuesday a one day training on disaster risk reduction management to barangay captains, school heads, barangay secretaries, and members of Barangay Emergency Response Team (BERT) at the municipal gym here.

MDRRM Officer Abraham Capayas said the training was in compliance with the provision of Republic Act No. 10121 otherwise known as “An Act Strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management System of 2010.” Capayas said the law mandated all local government units (LGUs) to

adopt and implement a comprehsnive disaster risk reduction management plan and strengthen the capacity of the LGUs together with partner stakeholders to build disaster-resilient communities. In the said training, Capayas said, the participants were taught how to formulate a barangay


Bayog MDRRMO conducts training on disaster risk reduction management

disaster risk reduction management plan that would serve as a guide in responding during emergencies. Mayor Leonardo Babasa Jr. in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 staff said the training was part of government’s participatory process where key officials of the barangays should be actively involved in BDRRM planning. “The BDRRM plan that they have formulated will be discussed with their residents during the barangay assembly and consequently will be submitted to MDRRMO for consolidation,” the mayor pointed out adding that “the BDRRM plan will help the people prepare for any disaster, mimimize its impact, and educate them about any impending

natural calamities. Babasa said Bayog is vulnerable to natural disasters, as some of the barangays have been affected by flooding several times due to climate change. “Our municipality is situated between Sibuguey and Dipili rivers. Our barangays will experience severe flooding brought by incessant rains,” Babasa reported. Babasa is confident that with the BDRRM plan, his dream of attaining zero-casualty in times of disaster will be fulfilled. Punong Barangay Allan Malinao of barangay Matun-og thanked the LGU for involving them (stakeholders) in the training. “Nagpasalamat mi sa LGU nga gilakip mi sa maong pagbansaybansay tungod kay ang BDRRM plan amo kining magamit panahon nga makasinati kami ug kalamidad sa among barangay.” (We thanked the LGU that we were involved in this training because the BDRRM plan will be used by us when we experience calamity in our barangay.) Malinao said the adverse effects of climate change has been felt already in their barangay. “Kaniadto talagsa ra ang baha mahitabo sa among barangay apan karon, kadaghan na ug nakadulot ug dakong kadaut sa among mga uma (Before, the floods seldom happened in our barangay but now they occur more often, destroying our farms),” said Malinao, an owner of a 2-hectare farm.


A month after it implemented “Oplan KKK,” not a single crime was reported to have occurred in this town, according to Mayor Leonardo L. Babasa Jr. in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency yesterday. Oplan KKK, which stands for Kalimpyo, Kahapsay ug Kalinaw (Cleanliness, Orderliness and Peace) has been implemented by the municipal government to keep its place clean, orderly and peaceful. “To attain this, we have conducted a house-to-house inspection as to adherence to our policies on solid waste management - the proper disposal of garbage,” Babasa said. “On the other hand, to sustain

our present peaceful environment we have also established checkpoints to monitor the people and visitors coming in and out of our town, thus registering a zero crime rate last month” he added. Mayor Babasa beamed with pride to report that only his town had registered a zero crime rate last month in the entire Zaboanga del Sur. “What we want to instill in the minds of our constituents is that we could only achieve peace and order in our community if we abide by the law. At the same time we want to show and inculcate in our visitors that the residents of Bayog are disciplined people,” the mayor declared.

Bayog town attains zero crime following KKK implementationBy Claro A. Lanipa

BAYOG, Zamboanga del Sur – With its new version of KKK, this town has brought down its crime rate to zero.


ALABEL, Sarangani – Health officials in Sarangani province have started administration of long-term implant female contraception that could pre-vent pregnancy for three years.

Sarangani administers contraceptive implants


The implant, called Implanon, is a small, flexible plastic rod measuring four centimeters long and two millimeters in diameter inserted underneath the skin in the upper arm.

Implanon contains 68 milligrams of the active substance etonogestrel, a synthetic female hormone resembling progesterone.

Dr. Bethea Facelo, a medical officer in Maitum who volunteered services during the mass administration, said certain amount of the substance is secreted daily in the bloodstream causing the uterus lining to thin out, making women incapable pregnancy.

In private and public hospitals, Facelo said, this birth control costs around P5,000; however, women in Sarangani get this free of charge courtesy of the provincial government in partnership with the Department of Health and Family Planning Organization of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Municipal health officer Honorato Fabio reported that more than a hundred women in Alabel town have been inserted with Implanon.

A series of free mass administration is expected to follow in the remaining six towns of Sarangani.

Last year, a number of doctors and health personnel in every municipality

were trained particularly for the administration of the implant contraceptive.

This, according to Fabio, supports the World Health Organization’s promotion for family planning where couples should control their desired number of children at the same time practice proper spacing between child births.

Women’s ability to space and limit pregnancies, he said, would greatly contribute on her well-being and her family.

Among other available family planning methods, this implant contraceptive is recommended especially for busy and multi-gravid women who are scared to undergo ligation.

This activity, is among the highlights of this month’s family planning celebration anchored on the theme “Ang Planadong Buhay ay Maayos na Buhay.” (BCPaoyon- Sarangani Information Office/DEDoguiles-PIA 12)


COTABATO CITY – The search is on for the 2014 Model of Family of the Year Awards (MOFYA) in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Search for 2014 Model OFW Family in ARMM opensBy Olivers Ross Rivera

This annual search is now on its 10th year and is spearheaded by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

OWWA-ARMM OIC Habib Malik said they are inviting stakeholders to nominate their choice model OFW family and be part of this prestigious awards for OFWs.

“We encourage local government units, non-government organizations, peoples’ organizations, community-based socio-civic organizations and religious groups in the autonomous region to nominate OFW families who have shown exemplary performance in their respective professions, and at the same time have a positive impact in their communities,” Malik said.

Malik said that the deadline for nomination in ARMM is set on September 15, 2014.

The official explained MOFYA is an award-giving program designed to give recognition to outstanding OFW families in recognition to the valuable efforts in the face of overseas migration.

“We will select winners for two categories: the Land based category

and the Sea based category,” Malik said.

The winners for both categories in the regional level will represent ARMM in the national search set on December 2014.

Aside from the major award, two special awards such as Outstanding Achievement in Community Projects and Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship will also be bestowed on deserving families.

The success stories of the model OFW families will serve as a guiding light for others to overcome the difficulties of migration and further enhance the image of OFW families in the community.

Last year, the family of Engr. Esmael M. Maulana of Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao was hailed as the national winner of the coveted MOFYA award for the land based category.

For more details and inquiries, nominators may contact OWWA Regional Welfare Office at 2F MAGS Bldg, Quezon Ave. Cotabato City at telephone numbers (064) 4217237/ 4217236/ 09176220140 or email at [email protected]. (ORVRivera-PIA12)


ALEOSAN, North Cotabato -- Families with meager income in North Cotaba-to may now avail of more National Food Authority (NFA) rice in the market.

NorthCot LGU helps marginalized families avail more NFA riceBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

This is after the provincial government opened outlets and rolling stores selling NFA rice. Recently, another outlet was opened in Aleosan town particularly in Barangay Poblacion.

Board Member Loreto Cabaya, Jr., chair of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Agriculture said the initiative aims to help poor families avail of their basic need.

“We have this Resolution No. 391 requesting the National Food Authority (NFA) to allow the provincial government to open a Serbisyong Totoo Bigasan ng Bayan in the municipalities and city of North Cotabato.

“The provincial government takes action and responds to the continuous increase in the prices of commercial rice in the market. The solution to this problem besetting many poor families is by finding ways for NFA rice to be more available and more accessible in the market,” Cabaya added.

Cresilda Campas of Sitio Pinikitan,

Barangay San Mateo of this town was thankful that an outlet which sells affordable NFA rice opened near their residence and was more delighted to know that the well-milled NFA rice costs P33 per kilo while the broken rice costs worth P27 per kilo.

\Under the scheme, a particular family can buy up to five kilos of NFA rice everyday.

Maria Mamites of Barangay Dualing, Aleosan who immediately bought five kilos of rice for her family’s consumption was pleased to know that an outlet is opened which will enable many families to buy the staple.

Meanwhile, Mayor Vicente Sorupia extended his appreciation to the provincial government for its support to his marginalized constituents.

\At present, there are 23 Serbisyong Totoo Bigasan ng Bayan outlets all over North Cotabato. (SJDuerme-PIA12/JSta.Cruz&RASotto-N. Cotabato Provincial Government)

One Mindanao - August 14, 2014

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