One Mindanao - October 16, 2012

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESEDITORIAL BOARDExecutive Editor …….. EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI

Managing Editor …….. ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao

Associate Editors …… NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX

OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Officer-in-charge, PIA Caraga Region

ELAINE O. RATUNIL Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X

Regional Desk Editors Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Copy Editor ............... Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Layout Artists ……… Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Zener R. Dumaguing, PIA Region X

Senior Layout Artists : Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region

Editorial Adviser :

SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038Cellphone no. 0908-8843404E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]: www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA WesMin Info BlizTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIAIX

Northern MindanaoGraces’ Building, Antonio Luna StreetCagayan de Oro City 9000Telefax No. (08822) 72-66-83Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594Cellphone 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]

Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN) Provincial Capitol Compound Bautista 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)Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phBlogspot: www.piacaraga.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

Cover Story

Camiguin Island opens Lanzonez Fest

Jorie C. ValcorzaNorthern Mindanao

Today’s issue... Tuesday, October 16, 2012 Vol. 2 No. 44

page 4

Aquino earmarks P8.59-billion for Framework Agreement transition program 8

lovely a. carillo, Southern Mindanao

Islamic Institute supports peace agreement 18Anti-Red Tape Law Implementation in 14 LGUs Appraised 20 DILG -Caraga, Caraga Region

GPH-MILF Framework signing ushers dawning of peace -- Antonino

DA 12 spearheads training on supply value chain in Soccsksargen

Dani Doguiles, Central Mindanao

Mini-Hydro Power In Pangaylan Pushed 23 PIO-Agusan del Norte, Caraga Region

TESDA urges drivers to undergo TESDA assessment 26 Gideon C. Corgue, Western Mindanao

No rotating brownout in CdO, says city official

Lorebeth C. Requiroso, Northern Mindanao29

Shahana Joy Duerme, Central Mindanao

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Housing agencies to hold weeklong fair in Oro Apipa P. Bagumbaran Northern Mindanao30

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Tuesday, October 16, 2012 4 ONE MINDANAO

Camiguin Island opens Lanzonez Fest

“Buahan” as it is fondly called, were mostly grown in the backyards of local folks here. It is a yellow grapelike fruit that grows in clusters or bunches. Local agriculturist says it is a seasonal crop and only bears fruit in the months of September to November. Now as the 3rd week of October draws near, where the festival is annually set, the island prepared a weeklong festivity highlighted by a lively and colorful extravaganza of traditional dances (tableau presentation) on Saturday, October 27.

Most performances portray the tale of the fruit and how it gets so sweet, while fairy dancers at the same await to astound the crowd with their grace and beauty. One can expect dances of all sorts during the festivity, as it features a Music and Kabog (Bats) showdown, Kalanrakas sa Kabataan (Charivari-Street Dancing), Kalanrakas for the barangay category, and festival king & queen and diwata (fairies) showdowns. Visitors may also take pleasure of the island’s best products and handicrafts which will be showcased

After thirty three years, drums

here are still beating festive tunes everywhere as locals prepare for the yearly thanksgiving in dances, for its continuous yield of the sweet luscious lanzones fruit, named to be the

by Jorie C. Valcorza

Tuesday, October 16, 2012 5ONE MINDANAO

i n the Agro-Industrial Technology Trade Fair (UGMAD). Others activities prepped up includes the Mutya sa Buahanan (Miss Camiguin Tourism) 2012; rondalla and folk dance competition; sports tournament; TRASHion; On the spot painting contest; cooking contest; kiddies’ theater, draw &

tell contest; variety shows, jobs fair and the docu fest 2012 which brings in government services like pre-processing of passport documents, issuance of NBI clearance and NSO SECPA, renewal of PRC licenses and Visa Extension Services. The “Buahanan 2012” celebration is set to open this Sunday, October 21, bannering the theme “ Kinaiyahan Atong

Ampingan, Kalamboan Alang sa Tanan” (Care for nature, everybody’s success). This festivity is among the province’s top tourist come on, apart from the Lenten Walk around the island dubbed as “Panaad“ and summer season treat.

6 Tuesday, October 16, 2012

ACROSS THE NATIONPresident Aquino’s sincerity made Framework Agreement possible, says Iqbal

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front wants to seize the opportunity to complete the Framework Agreement with the government while President Benigno S. Aquino III whom it describes as “a very reliable

partner” is in power.“We have a very reliable partner

in the person of President Benigno S. Aquino III. We want to finish everything before his term ends

for practical purposes, we want to finish the process,” MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal said in a joint press conference with

Tuesday, October 16, 2012 7

government chief negotiator Marvic Leonen in Malacanang on Monday.

The two negotiators held the joint press conference after they signed the Framework Agreement in Malacanang earlier, which was witnessed by the President, Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Abdul Razak, MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ibrahim and other partners.

Iqbal was responding to questions whether how important is it for the MILF to have the agreement implemented by 2016.

For his part, Leonen said the Aquino administration is committed to the peace process because the agreement contains the political commitment of the President, noting the President’s intention was to seal the deal as early as possible.

“The President wanted an agreement early enough so that it can be implemented, it can be assessed, and in the next administration it is a legacy

that can be improved,” Leonen said.In his opening statement Iqbal

gave President Aquino, MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ibrahim, the Malaysian government credit for making the agreement possible. The MILF believed and trusted the government especially because of the President’s ‘matuwid na daan’ or ‘straight path’ policy, he said.

The Framework Agreement will put an end to 40 years of conflict in Mindanao that resulted to hundreds of casualties. The MILF started negotiating with the government in 1997.

President Aquino is expected to issue an executive order following Monday’s signing of the Framework Agreement to create a Transition Commission.

Leonen said both panels will be returning to Malaysia to iron out the annexes of the Framework Agreement that will include decommissioning and disarmament of the MILF. PND (as)

8 Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Aquino earmarks P8.59-billion for Framework Agreement transition program

President Benigno S. Aquino III has earmarked P8.59-billion that will be used to fund the transition processes that will be stipulated in putting up the Bangsamoro political entity

now that the Framework Agreement between the government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front has been finally signed.

In his speech before the formal signing of the Framework Agreement in Malacañang on Monday the President said that the additional amount for the Transition Investment

Support Plan was on top of the P12.93-million already allocated in the General Appropriations Act.

“This year the government has committed 8.59 billion pesos for

Tuesday, October 16, 2012 9

Aquino earmarks P8.59-billion for Framework Agreement transition program

the Transition Investment Support Plan, on top of the 12.93 billion pesos already allocated through our budget,” the President said.

The amount, the President added, would be used to “map out the detailed steps, detailed commitments, and detailed programs that will lead to the fulfillment of our long-term goals.”

“We are committed to enabling our partners to transform themselves to a genuine political party that can help facilitate the region’s transition towards a truly peaceful and progressive place. We are committed to giving the region its rightful share, confident that it will redound to the benefit of all citizens, and will not just line the pockets of a very select few,” the President said.

The Framework Agreement defines the nature, structure, and powers of the political entity called the Bangsamoro that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. PND (rck)

Tuesday, October 16, 2012ONE MINDANAO 10

President Aquino witnesses the signing of Framework Agreement between GPH and MILF

President Benigno S. Aquino III witnessed the historic signing of the Framework Agreement between the

Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in ceremonies held in Malacañang on Monday.

President Benigno S. Aquino III witnessed the historic signing of the Framework Agreement between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in ceremonies held in

Malacañang on Monday.The GPH-MILF Framework

Agreement serves as a roadmap for the creation of a Bangsamoro entity that will replace the current Autonomous Region in Muslim

Tuesday, October 16, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 11

Mindanao and lays down the groundwork to achieve lasting and genuine peace in Mindanao.

“Today, we sign a Framework Agreement that can finally seal genuine, lasting peace in Mindanao. In full view of the Filipino people, and witnessed even by our friends from different parts of the world, we commit to peace: A peace that will be sustained through democratic ideals; a peace that heals and empowers; a peace that recognizes the many narratives of the Filipino people, and weaves them into a single, national aspiration for equitable progress,” the President said in his speech keynoting the event.

“This agreement not only marks a new chapter in our history; it now defines the very path we take as a people – one where opinions are heard and hope is shared; where understanding and consensus breed meaningful solutions for all stakeholders; one where every child is offered the opportunity to shape his own destiny,” he added.

He pointed out that much work remains to be done as the details of the Framework Agreement need to be ironed out in order to achieve the goals of the agreement.

“We have commitments to fulfill, people to lead, and dreams to achieve. The details to be laid out in the annexes, in particular,

provide us with a solid opportunity to expand the common ground whose principles we have already articulated through the agreement. I am confident that our faith in each other, and in the Filipino people, will not waver, and in fact will only grow even stronger in the years to come,” the President said.

“We are now at the beginning of a comprehensive agreement that will map out the detailed steps, detailed commitments, and detailed programs that will lead to the fulfillment of our long-term goals. We are committed to enabling our partners to transform themselves to a genuine political party that can help facilitate the region’s transition towards a truly peaceful and progressive place,” he added.

The Framework Agreement was signed before the presence of President Aquino, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak and MILF chair Al Haj Murad and by the chief negotiators of both sides, Marvic Leonen (GPH) and Mohagher Iqbal (MILF). (PNA)


DOLE chief launches “Child Labor-Free Barangay” in Soccsksargen RegionBy Dani DoguilesKORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato-- Department of Labor and Employment secretary Rosalinda Baldoz yesterday arrived in General Santos City for the launching of the department’s Child Labor-Free Barangay Program in Soc-csksargen Region.


DOLE 12 regional director Chona Mantilla said, the event is in line with their efforts to eliminate to child labor as mandated in Republic Act 9231 or Anti Child Labor Law.

At the launching at Barangay Bula gymnasium, Baldoz signed a memorandum of understanding with Gensan LGU, Barangay Bula LGU, DepEd, Marcellin Foundation and other stakeholders for the promotion of child labor-free communities.

She also distribute educational supplies to identified working children in said barangay and released livelihood assistance qualified parents of the child workers, who according to reports from DOLE 12

are mostly involved in selling goods.

Twenty-one parents received starter kits for micro businesses, which Director Mantilla said are intended to provide families income under condition that they will not send their children again to help earn a living.

Starter kits are for chorizo making, kakanin (puto and kutsinta) making, fish barbeque and dried fish production, mini carenderia, fish jigging, dress making, and fried banana and bibingka making.

The kits amounted to a total of P104,693.

Baldoz also awarded Labor Standards Compliance Certificate to Yellow Bus Line Inc. (YBL) plying routes from

Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato to Davao City.

YBL is the first bus company in Region 12 that has complied with Dept. Order 118-12 governing the employment of drivers and conductors in public utility bus transport industry.

YBL also received certification for complying with DOTC Dept. Order 2011-25 requiring public transport drivers to undergo training and assessment by TESDA. Of the 194 drivers of YBL, 193 have already been assessed. Of those assessed 143 drivers have been awarded National Certification III.

The secretary also turnover 14 wheelchairs for recipient persons with disability. The project is being implemented in partnership with the Mahintana Foundation, corporate social responsibility arm of Dolefil Inc.

She also visited the 20-member SAFII Wives’ Club, a successful recipient of DOLE 12’s PRESEED program.


GPH-MILF Framework signing ushers dawning of peace -- AntoninoBy Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Secretary Luwalhati R. Antonino, chair of the Mindanao Development Community, said signing of the Agreement on the Framework for Bangsamoro yesterday, “truly ushers the dawning of peace and forging ahead of broader collaboration for accelerated progress and transformation.”

In a press statement, Antonino lauded President Benigno Aquino III for pursuing lasting peace in Mindanao.

She said, the Aquino administration has never wavered in its stand that war is never an option and that peace is a central ingredient of the country’s future.

Government peace panel chair Marvic Leonen and Moro Islamic Liberation Front peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal signed the agreement yesterday afternoon in Malacanang.

The event was witnessed by President Aquino, MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak who arrived in Manila yesterday.

Antonino added that the Framework Agreement would allow the transformation of areas that had gone through the “Worst of age-old armed conflicts.”

“The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is very much encouraged with this monumental progress in the peace process, and thus, endeavors to pursue all efforts to address the imperatives for Bangsamoro and in the context of Mindanao’s overall transformation, consistent with the President’s agenda for development and inclusive growth,” the MinDA chief said.

She believes the agreement also brings promise for Bangsamoro business leaders to

respond to opportunities that abound in both domestic and international markets, and with the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-the Philippines-East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) as the integration platform.

A series of exchange of business missions and trade exhibits between Mindanao and Malaysian investors have been firmed up for possible forging of investments, with more than 50 Mindanao-based companies and exhibitors taking part in the Business Forum for Mindanao Opportunities in Kuala Lumpur in November and the BIMP-EAGA & IMT-GT Consumer Fair 2012 in Melaka, Malaysia in December this year.


There may still be many hurdles before peace and progress is achieved but Antonio believes “with unity and understanding, we can achieve our shared

vision for Bangsamoro and for Mindanao.”

“We have always believed that armed conflict can end through peaceful means, and with this development,

we can look forward to achieving unifying peace and inclusive progress for Mindanao, and fulfil the many promises for its people.,” she said.

DA 12 spearheads training on supply value chain in SoccsksargenBy Shahana Joy DuermeKORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- The Agribusiness Marketing and Assistance Division (AMAD) under the Department of Agriculture (DA) 12 conducted a training on supply value chain analysis held recently at General Santos City.

The said training was attended by municipal, city and provincial agribusiness coordinators in Region 12.

Bai Dido T. Samama, AMAD Chief said that the training is a significant tool in identifying the part of agriculture chain process which needs assistance from farm inputs to market products.

“We would like the participants to determine the operations involved in the distribution of agri-fishery products from the farm to the end consumers,” Samama

explained.She also noted that

knowing the nature of value chain would lead to determining the importance of agribusiness c o o r d i n a t o r s ’ relationship and role which they play to the chain as agribusiness frontrunners.

Highlight of the training was the workshop on supply chain analysis headed by Trade and Industry Development Specialist Rectoniel Reginio who also gave lecture about the topic.

Meanwhile, DA 12

Regional Executive Director Amalia J. Datukan stated that the analysis of supply value chain will be used for strategic planning for better implementation of DA’s projects and programs.

A supply value chain is an array of activities for the department operating and collaborating with other specific industry in order to deliver agri-fishery inputs into end products or services.

These products and services pass through the activities in the chain in order to gain value.


SEC-Davao to construct new building

DAVAO CITY- The Securities and Exchange Commission in Davao is building a new home in a portion of its property. Javey Paul Francisco SEC-Davao director said that they are going to bid out the construction of a 2-storey building which is worth P30-million. The site will be a 1,000 square meter property located at the back of its former building. Francisco said that the new building will be smaller than the old building, the new building will be a 750

square meter office which will house the extension office of SEC. they are eyeing that construction will begin by next year. The old building which is a subject of litigation after structural defects were found and subsequently abandoned was deemed too big for the office. According to Francisco the old building was built in accordance to the planned reorganization of SEC with different line offices that will be housed in a big building, however the reorganization didn’t push through and some functions of the SEC were transferred to other government agencies. For one, intra-corporate disputes was transferred to the regular courts, the old building used to house the hearing rooms when the SEC still practiced quasi-judicial functions. SEC Davao aside from covering Region XI also has jurisdiction over adjacent regions like Region XII, XIII and parts of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao or ARMM.

By Rudolph Alama


Islamic Institute supports peace agreementDAVAO CITY- The Al Qalam Insti-tute of Ateneo de Davao Univer-sity has declared its support for the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro which was signed in Malacanang yesterday by the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “it is well crafted but we just want to be sure that all voices of the people will be heard as we cannot allow the same mistake that happened before during the GRP - MNLF peace talks,” Al Qalam Institute of Ateneo de Davao University director Mussolini Sinsuat Lidasan said. Al Qalam, which means pen, is an institute that aims to bring understanding of Islam among the Muslims and non-Muslims. It was formally launched in November last year during the Eidl Ahda, an event that commemorates an act of obedience by Ibrahim to Allah. Lidasan however said the negotiators have to consider several points for the successful implementation of the peace agreement. On top of that, he said, is to consider the sentiments not only of the MILF but also of the other religious minorities like the “kamaasan/minatoa (Folk Islam), Sufis, Ahmadiyahs and tablighs who may not have a common view on many things.” “They may be subjected to both political and

religious persecution in an attempt for them to be forced to conform,” he said. This can also happen to other religious groups like the IP and Christians who may be forced into accepting a singular form of spirituality and will ultimately result in religious persecution which we are trying to avoid, he added.He said multi-people consultation should be done in order to avoid the isolation of the grassroots traditional leaders, the IP and the Moro Datus. “There is a need for a more inclusive mechanism of governance and that the voices of these traditional mechanisms of governance long ignored by traditional politicians must again be asserted and respected,” he said. Lidasan said the Filipino people should also determine if opting for a parliamentary government will cure the political ills or merely opening a can of worms just like Pandora’s Box which will result to a more complicated government system. In effect, he said, this can lead to a civil war instead of a sustainable peace. Lastly, Lidasan said, it should not be the MILF that should speak on wealth-sharing and resource allocation but the traditional constituents like the ancestral domain holders, locally-owned big businesses and traditional farmers. “The government should not


look into the Muslims as one group alone or the Bangsamoro,” he said. According to him, there are at least 13 Islamized ethnic tribes including the Badjao, Iranun, Jama-mapun, Kalagan, Maguindanao, Maranao, Molbog, Palawan, Samal, Sangil, Tausug and Yakan. Lidasan said the Council of Elders should be empowered. Both the GRP and the MILF should recognize the historical roots of the Muslims and the IPs. “Even the MILF knows the composition of the council of elders of each tribe,” he added. But since it is the MILF which is the signatory to the Framework Agreement, he suggests the conduct of a multi people consultation through the academe and universities that has anthropological and sociological data. While the Framework Agreement has been met positively in most areas in Mindanao, Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chair Nur Misuari claimed it runs counter to

the previous tripartite agreements which were signed between the GRP and the MNLF and recognized by the international community. Among the signed peace agreements are the Tripoli Agreement in 1976 which was signed by the GRP-MNLF and which established “Autonomy in Southern Philippines” and which specified the 13 Autonomous areas, the Jeddah Accord in 1987 and the Philippine Agreement in 1996. “He (Misuari) has a valid comment, but the Tripoli Agreement went beyond its purpose and existence; the MNLF had their chance in 1996, but studies show that it did not work,” Lidasan said. The Framework of Bangsamoro Agreement will include his concerns, but not on its totality because his concerns were address by congress by a series of enactment of laws; all agreements must conform to the will of the people via enactment of laws from congress and ratification of the people, he added.(lovely a. carillo)


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PCSO turns over P200T worth of equipment to Regional PNP Hospitalby Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY --- The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has turned over P200,000 worth of dental and X-ray equipment to the Regional Police Office 13 Regional Hospital. Attending the turn over and memorandum of agreement signing between PCSO and the PNP were top PCSO officials from Manila led by PCSO General Manager Jose Ferdinand M. Rojas II and PCSO

Mindanao Operations Manager Carlito Kho, with Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. and PhilHealth Regional Vice President Johnny Sychua. Also in attendance were top regional PNP


officials led by Caraga PNP Director CSupt. Carmelo E. Valmoria and the officers, staff and personnel manning the police regional hospital official led by Supt. Victor EL Dominguez, chief regional health services 13. In his welcome message, Supt. Dominguez called the activity a historical one and pointed out that it is a tall order for the PNP to operate such a hospital. He called the regional hospital of the PNP here as the second beautifully structured police hospital built outside Camp Crame. The medical facility is just waiting to be furnished with all the necessary equipment in order to fully operate. He also said it is just fortunate that concerned agencies such as the PCSO had envisioned helping equip the facility to make it fully operational. Rojas II for his part said that donation of such equipment by their office to the PNP regional hospital was

their way of heeding the call of President Aquino to provide “universal health care” to everyone, which includes the police and their dependents. Rojas said that upon his arrival he went around to take a look at the facility together with Valmoria and found out was that the hospital still needs more equipment in order to be fully operational. He added that the equipment recently

donated may only just be the beginning. More equipment will be coming in the future, he said. He added that the PCSO is committed to upgrade the regional hospital with the necessary equipment and facilities for DOH accreditation. It is the policy of the new PCSO management to give prior opportunity to the people of Mindanao, he also said. He disclosed that PCSO is even contemplating to donate an ambulance or even a mobile clinic to the region, like what they did to Camp Crame. Mayor Amante for his part called the occasion “very momentous” as it addressed the much-needed services to the poor and to the community and at the same time addressed the problem of peace and order. He also pointed out that without peace there will be no development. This strengthened more the ties between the LGU and the PNP,


Anti-Red Tape Law Implementation in 14 LGUs Appraised

BUTUAN CITY -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government of Region XIII recently appraised the implementation of Republic Act 9485, otherwise known as the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) of 2007, in six cities and eight municipalities of the region.

by DILG -Caraga

he said. He went on to emphasize that the law enforcers’ function are so vital in all peace and order efforts. The mayor manifested that aside of the P8 million peso LGU assistance to the PNP, he will also find ways to complement the sharing of the medical equipment and supplies donation from the World Medical Program to the hospital. He disclosed that the city received two 40-footer container vans filled with such equipment and supplies from the aforesaid program. The mayor also announced that on December 17 this year, the World Medical Relief Global President will be

coming over to Butuan City to turn over the P43 Million HCT scan donation to the Butuan City Medical Center. This will be in line with the LGU’s efforts to make Butuan City the center for cancer detection in the island. There will only be one of such equipment for the Visayas and Mindanao and St. Luke Hospital in Metro Manila had just acquired its first unit two weeks ago, Amante said. This will make Butuan City not too far behind from the medical centers in Metro Manila, Amante, who is also a medical doctor himself, said.


The said law aims to promote transparency in government transactions with the public by simplifying procedures and formulating service standards to observe in every transaction. The DILG, in executing its supervisory power over LGUs, is responsible in monitoring the implementation of the ARTA and compliance to the Citizen’s Charter and other required elements. The appraisal was done using a survey questionnaire designed to measure the compliance of the LGUs to R.A. 9485, and to determine the level of client satisfaction. An analysis was then made from the survey results and an implementation report was generated. The said report was afterwards presented to the concerned LGU officials and functionaries as well as representatives from civil society organizations during the “Governance Forum Towards Transparent and Efficient Frontline Services” organized by DILG last October 18, 2011 in Butuan City. The survey, among others, showed that majority of the LGU personnel were aware of the citizen’s charter as the official document of LGU service standards or pledge of public commitment communicated to the citizens. On the other hand, many LGU client-respondents were still unaware of the LGU service standards committed to the public in spite of the LGU initiated efforts to notify the public. During the forum, the LGUs were able to plan actions in order to improve their compliance to ARTA.

Ms. Lilibeth A. Famacion, Assistant Regional Director of DILG Region XIII, delivered the opening and closing message during the forum. She reminded everyone that the taxpayers are the most important visitors in our offices; they are not interruption in our work, but are the purpose of it, and they deserve the best treatment. The new Junior Professional Officer of AECID Region XIII, Mr. Javier Garcia, also came during the forum and gave a message about AECID and its support to good governance. Both the survey and the forum are part of the activities under the Strengthening Local Governments in the Philippines Project implemented by the Local Government Academy (LGA) and DILG in partnership with the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation or AECID.


Mini-Hydro Power In Pangaylan Pushedby PIO-Agusan del Norte

Agusan del Norte --In an effort to contribute to the electricity consumption of Agusan del Norte residents, provincial and local officials of Barangay Pangaylan-IP are pushing for the construction of a mini-hydro power plant in the Asiga River.

In a resolution approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan authored by Honorable Lorito Q. Maragañas, the Body expresses its absolute support to the project and is asking the Department of Energy for its approval to immediately start construction. The hydro plant which is expected to generate 8,000 to 10,000 kilowatt-hour of electricity, will be constructed by the Equi-Parco Construction Corporation. The Sangguniang Bayan of Santiago also gave their strong recommendation. To recall, on September 26,

2010, a joint site inspection and assessment of the proposed project was made by 2 engineers of Filipinas Renewable Energy Development Corporation (FRENDCO) along with the technical staff of Equi-Parco in an objective to develop a reliable and cheap source of electric power that will supplement the electric power requirement of the whole province of Agusan del Norte. It is located approximately 3 kilometers east of the town of Santiago and 2 kilometers from Barangay Pangaylan-IP, part of the franchise area of Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative (ANECO).


The study proved that the river is a great potential for energy source. “Utilization of the water resources of Asiga river for electric generation will be beneficial to the inhabitants of Barangay Pangaylan-IP in terms of livelihood and infrastructure projects,” Punong Barangay Luzmindo P. Casawitan said. Provincial officials believe that the hydro power will boost the socio-economic endeavors of the Municipality of Santiago and the province as a whole. In an effort to contribute to the electricity consumption of Agusan del Norte residents, provincial and local officials of Barangay Pangaylan-IP are pushing for the construction of a mini-hydro power plant in the Asiga River. In a resolution approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan authored by Honorable Lorito Q. Maragañas, the Body expresses its absolute support to the project and is asking the Department of Energy for its approval to immediately start construction. The hydro plant which is expected to generate 8,000 to 10,000 kilowatt-hour of electricity, will be constructed by the Equi-Parco Construction Corporation. The

Sangguniang Bayan of Santiago also gave their strong recommendation. To recall, on September 26, 2010, a joint site inspection and assessment of the proposed project was made by 2 engineers of Filipinas Renewable Energy Development Corporation (FRENDCO) along with the technical staff of Equi-Parco in an objective to develop a reliable and cheap source of electric power that will supplement the electric power requirement of the whole province of Agusan del Norte. It is located approximately 3 kilometers east of the town of Santiago and 2 kilometers from Barangay Pangaylan-IP, part of the franchise area of Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative (ANECO). The study proved that the river is a great potential for energy source. “Utilization of the water resources of Asiga river for electric generation will be beneficial to the inhabitants of Barangay Pangaylan-IP in terms of livelihood and infrastructure projects,” Punong Barangay Luzmindo P. Casawitan said. Provincial officials believe that the hydro power will boost the socio-economic endeavors of the Municipality of Santiago and the province as a whole.


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Tourism USec taps LGUs to support tourism effortsBy Franklin P. Gumapon

DIPOLOG CITY - As the Aquino administration aims to bring in 2 million tourists by 2016, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is now tapping the support of the local government units (LGUs) to realize such a goal. Tourism Undersecretary Ma. Victoria Jazmin in a press conference held recently in Dapitan City said the DOT needs the support of the local government officials to promote tourism industry in the country.

Jazmin told the local press that “infrastructure support is vital to tourism development and that the LGUs can greatly help in this aspect.” She also said that under


the National Tourism Development Plan, the development of tourism industry shall be altogether implemented in the three major clusters, namely, North Philippines, Central Visayas and South Philippines. Jazmin underscored the importance of convergence not only with the national government agencies (NGAs) but also with the LGUs to boost tourism industry in the country. To improve connectivity, the DOT has also tapped the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Communication and Transportation (DOTC) to provide for the needed infrastructures like

roads, bridges, airports and ports. The tourism official also said the LGUs have to meet the two conditions set by the DOT to promote tourism in their respective places. These are safety and cleanliness. Moreover, she cited the 5As the tourists are seeking to find in a destination such as access, accommodation, amenities, attractions and activities.


Provincial director Eulalio Lumactod said applicants can register and take the assessment (written exam) at the TESDA provincial office where the evaluation/assessment is being conducted daily. Lumactod said applicants will be issued and NC II and III once they are evaluated as competent by their assessors. “The NC is one of the requirements before a certificate of public convenience (CPC) is issued. Lumactod said drivers of public utility buses should be certified by TESDA with a Driving National Certificate (NC) III upon passing the assessment while jeepney drivers or drivers of other modes of public land transportation should be certified by TESDA with a Driving National Certificate (NC) II. The TESDA chief said Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has issued Department Order No. 2011-25 or the inclusion of driver proficiency standard as an additional requirement

in the application of regulatory powers of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to issue certificates of public convenience to jeepney, van and bus drivers. The order also aims to ensure safety of passengers of public utility vehicles. The CPC is one of the requirements of bus, van and jeepney drivers in the renewal of their driver’s license in the Land Transportation Office Lumactod said those who are interested to take the assessment must apply in the office and must bring the following requirements: Examination fee of P400.00 and 2 pcs. passport size non-computer generated pictures ( front view position with collar and white background). For further details, applicants are advised to visit TESDA office at Dao, Pagadian City or call at tel. nos. 214-1234, and mobile nos. 090870289931, 09157039775.

TESDA urges drivers to undergo TESDA assessmentBy Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – Drivers of buses, jeepneys and vans who want to have a National Certificate (NC) II and NC III may now file their application/enrollment as the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) announces that it is now accepting applicants for assessment.


LTO-10 holds public consultation on standardization of vehicle license platesby Apipa P. Bagumbaran

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Land Transportation Office (LTO), Regional Office 10, is holding a series of public consultations on the proposed motor vehicle (MV) license plates standardization.

The draft Administrative Order (AO) that sets the guidelines and procedures on the standardization of MV plates was tackled during the consultation which started on October 15 in Cagayan de Oro City.

The MV license plates standardization p r o g r a m entails the replacement of all MV license plates by standardized plates, as well as, the replacement of all license plates every five years thereafter, the LTO-10 said.

Accordingly, the standardization program aims to aid and enhance law enforcement, improve MV registration database system, provide additional revenue source for the government, and deter crime to promote national


No rotating brownout in CdO, says city official by Lorebeth C. Requiroso

CAGAYAN DE ORO – Despite the preventive maintenance shutdown of two generation units of the Steag State Power Inc (SPI), residents of Cagayan de Oro should not worry as this will not result to rotating brownouts.

This was assured by President D. Elipe in his special report during the City Council regular session Tuesday. The councilor, who chairs the committee on energy, said shutdown of the 105 megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental started last Oct. 6 and will last until Oct. 29. Meanwhile the coal

power plant’s Unit 2 105 MW plant is due for shutdown from Oct. 29 to Nov. 4. He assured that during that time, power companies Cagayan Electric Power and Light Company (Cepalco) and Misamis Oriental Electric Service Cooperative (Moresco) can still meet the demands in the city through other

security. The second and third leg of the regional consultation is slated

on October 17 in Valencia City and on October 19 in Ozamiz City, respectively.


Independent Power Producers (IPP) like Minergy. Councilor Elipe noted that there will be an interlapping of shutdown of both units, however, he said this will take place during the holidays where there will be lesser demand for power. He said the public can help minimize the effects by not using much power during peak hours. The councilor called for a meeting with representatives of power companies last Monday to discuss the power situation in the city and other concerns relative to the shutdown of the coal fire plant. Councilor Ramon Tabor, who presided over the City Council regular session, commended the committee for looking into this concern. “This is a very good indication that we are acting on what should be acted upon on matters like this,” he said.

Housing agencies to hold weeklong fair in Oro by Apipa P. Bagumbaran

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The government housing agencies are inviting those who are planning to acquire a house to visit the Housing Fair slated October 22-26, this year.

Grace Ceres B. Saniel, Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) Region 10 Coordinator, said the housing fair will be held at the Training Hall of the Pag-IBIG Cagayan de Oro Office located in

JR Borja-Mortola Streets. She said the city government, the HUDCC together and the other housing agencies such as the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB), National Housing Authority (NHA),


Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF), National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC), Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) will hold clinic to respond to queries and concerns on housing during the fair.

S u b d i v i s i o n and housing developers in the region will also showcase their different housing projects, she added. A joint u n d e r t a k i n g of the housing agencies, the City Government, the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association in Northern Mindanao (SHDA-NM), the Chamber of Real Estate and Builders Inc. (CREBA), and the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), the week-long fair highlights the Shelter Month celebration in the region.

Proclamation No. 662 declared the month of October of every year as National Shelter Month. This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Gaganda ang Buhay sa Sariling Bahay at HanapBuhay.”

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One Mindanao - October 16, 2012

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