one mindanao - february 16, 2016

PIA Regional Offices

One Mindanao

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST

GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region

LAYOUT ARTISTSMARY MAY ABELLON, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region XZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region XDAISY JANE APIT, PIA Region XIII

EDITORIAL ADVISERSSEC. SONNY B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

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

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

ASSOCIATE EDITORS NOEMI B. EDAGARegional Director, PIA Region IX

THELMA B. OLIVERRegional Director, PIA Region X

OLIVIA T. SUDARIARegional Director, PIA Region XII

oung, old couples wed during Pag-IBIG Fund’s free civil wedding

Cover Story

By: Dominic I. Sanchez

today’s news

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2023

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Pres. Aquino to meet with potential investors in California

53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) battalion has new commanderBy: Gideon C. Corgue

Government to improve power situation in Mindanao

14 18

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PNP-ICPO advisory council goes basic ‘e-Learning’

Power firm cited for occupational safety, health

22 BFP-Gensan says erring establishments will be fined

By: DTI-Surigao del Norte

By: Greg Tataro Jr

By: Lorry V. Gabule

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Surigao Norte town to implement online business registration

TESDA helps rebuild houses through carpentry training in SurSur

SOCCSKSARGEN CARAGA

INFOCUS NATIONAL

WESTERN

NORTHERN

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DSWD-ARMM turns-over capital seed fund to 33 SEA-K in BasilanBy: Felipe M. Fernando

35By: Catherine T. Apelacio

4 February 16, 2016One Mindanao

ZAMSURECO-I bags 6 awards in2015 Lumens Award for outstanding ECs By Gideon C. Corgue

Cover Story

Because of its

steadfast commitment to deliver better and quality services to member-

consumers, theZambanga del Sur Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ZAMSURECO-I) has won six awards during the Lumens Award for the Outstanding Electric Cooperatives (ECs) for 2015 in an awarding rites at the Philippine International Convention Center, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City last Dec 2.

5February 16, 2016 One Mindanao

The Lumens Award

The Lumens award, which is organized by the National Electrification Administration (NEA), is an annual recognition of best performing ECs nationwide.

In an interview with ZAMSURECO-I general manager and chief executive officer, Engr. Jose A. Raul Saniel,he said “the awards are given to those luminaries in the field of rural electrification and who continue to inspire and make a difference in the lives of many people.” “The NEA recommends all the awardees for their outstanding performance. It recognized the

efforts in going beyond the ECs’ electrif ication duties,” Saniel q u o t e d N E A Administrator Editha S. Bueno as saying. Saniel said NEA recognized ZAMSURECO-I’s outstanding improvements

in its performance resulting in a significant level of improvement in the category.

Special Awards

During the event, Saniel said ZAMSURECO-I garnered the following awards: Electric Cooperative of the Year Award, Special Award for the Triple A Electric Cooperative, Best in Collection Performance Award, Sunshine Electric Cooperative Award (Special citation for regions and ECs with highest number of sitios energized to attain the committed 32,441 sitios), General Manager of the Year Award, Special Citation for EC Leadership For Having Actively Participated and Supported The Agency’s Strategic

By Gideon C. Corgue


Programs, Commitments and Policies.

“We are happy that the coop was given the Secretary Francisco G. Silva Leadership Award, a citation given for the extraordinary efforts in uplifting the overall operations of the EC through outstanding leadership qualities,” Saniel declared. “We are very proud that ZAMSURECO-I received these awards from NEA in the 2015 Lumens Award, recognizing its efforts in providing better services to its consumer-members,” Saniel maintained.

“We are very lucky also that from among the 120 ECs in the country,

ZAMSURECO-I was able to reap these awards despite the challenges that we have encountered in our operations especially the power supply problem,” the manager added. Saniel also attributed the coop’s achievements to the management, employees and stakeholders saying, “We attribute the remarkable achievements of the coop to the strong and incessant support and partnership between the management, employees and stakeholders and the sound implementation of the policies and programs by the board of directors.”

7February 16, 2016 One Mindanao 7

100% collection efficiency

“Saniel attributed the success to the active support of stakeholders particularly the member-consumers. “If they would not pay their electric bills the EC could never achieve the 100 percent collection efficiency,”he said.

The EC, Saniel said, was able to sustain the 100 percent collection efficiency award in 10 consecutive years.

The 48-year-old manager,who only assumed office on January 21, 2006,was also cited for his untiring efforts and commitment to the Sitio Electrification Program, consistent exemplary leadership qualities and achievements in managing thecooperative.

Performance measures

Saniel said the performance measures of the awardees are evaluated on the following criteria: service excellence, operational

performance, corporate social responsibility, sustainability and best practices.

Prior to the selection of the luminaries, Saniel saidthe ECs were supervised by NEA and were rated on their performance based on the following criteria: amortization payment, system loss, collection efficiency, non-power cost and barangay energization. NEA Administrator Editha S. Bueno served as guest speaker during the awarding rites. She was joined by former energy secretary Jericho Petilla, and former secretary Francisco G. Silva of the Presidential Adviser on Rural Electrification.

One Mindanao8 February 16, 2016

PH exports to EU increase by 27%

MAKATI CITY -- Philippine exports to the European Union (EU) increased by 27 percent. Under the Generalized System of Preferences Plus (EU-GSP+), the Philippines can now export 6,274 eligible products duty-free to the EU market.

FILEPHOTO OF http://investphilippines.gov.ph/

Prior to December 2014, the Philippines was covered by the

regular EU-GSP, which provides zero duty to only 2,442 products.


The Philippines was granted beneficiary country status under the EU-GSP+ in December 2014.

Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Adrian Cristobal Jr. lauded stakeholders on their efforts to fully utilize the EU-GSP+.

“The country’s beneficiary status under the EU-GSP+ is a result of what was a fruitful collaboration among government, the private and labor sectors, and industries. We urge local businesses to continue expanding their market presence and establish a stronger foothold in the EU market,” he said.

Monitoring report from the European Commission

During the first six months of 2015, total exports to EU under the GSP+ amounted to €743 million while total exports in the previous year under the

GSP amounted to €584 million, according to the first EU-GSP+ monitoring report endorsed by the European Commission (EC).

In the three quarters of 2015 alone, the electronics industry’s exports to the EU increased by €42.7 million, exports of aircraft and spacecraft parts grew by €6.9 million, exports of optical, photo, and medical equipment pegged an increase of €9.6 million while exports of animal/vegetable fats and oil rose to €7.3 million compared to exports during the same period in 2014.

Since its acceptance in the preferential tariff scheme, DTI has been conducting stakeholder consultations and information sessions around the country to enable local firms to acquire technical knowledge on rules of origin and knowledge on export product standards under the EU-GSP+. This includes more than 180 information sessions


of “Doing Business with the European Union using the GSP+” in the major export cities of the Philippines such as Cebu, Davao, General Santos City, and Angeles City.EU-GSP+ an essential achievement of the Philippines

Trade Undersecretary Dr. Ceferino Rodolfo said that being a beneficiary of the EU-GSP+ program is an essential achievement of the Philippines’ strategy to sustain and nurture

the country’s trade and i n v e s t m e n t relations with Europe.

According to the European U n i o n ’ s m o n i t o r i n g report, the Philippines has been making good progress

on the implementation of its commitments under the EU-GSP+. The Philippines beneficiary status under the GSP+ necessitates the ratification and implementation of the 27 international treaties and conventions on human rights, labor rights, environment, and governance.

“While we are making headway on our commitments under the GSP+, we will continue to build competitiveness locally while encouraging foreign


companies to invest or consider investing in the Philippines,” Rodolfo said.

Working with the labor department

The DTI has been working with the Department of Labor and Employment on tripartite consultations with labor unions in the tuna industry to improve workers’ rights and working conditions to meet the stringent requirements of the EU. Both

government agencies are also working on a Certification and Decertification Workers’ Rights Review Board for garments exporters that would facilitate the accreditation of manufacturers before they avail of preferential tariffs.

The EU ranks as the Philippines’ 4th largest trading partner, 3rd largest import source, and 4th largest export market. Major exports of the Philippines

under the EU GSP scheme include crude coconut oil, canned tuna, pneumatic tires, spectacle lenses, relays, preserved fruits, board and similar cabinets for electric control or the distribution of electricity, and ballasts for discharge lamps. (DTI)


RANCHO MIRAGE, California -- President Benigno S. Aquino III will meet today (Monday in US) with top executives of three big Los Angeles-based companies, following his participation in the special summit organized by US President Barack Obama with leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) here at Sunnylands.

Pres. Aquino to meet with potential investors in California

While in Los Angeles, the President will have a series of business meetings with officials of Walt Disney International, Western Digital Corporation, and AECOM’s Enterprise Growth

Solutions. President Aquino will meet first with Andy Bird, chairman of Walt Disney International, to discuss “the investment policies


and the climate in the creative sector, particularly game development and animation”.

“I think the President will also welcome an exchange of ideas on how the Philippine government can continue to support and develop the industry,” Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Cuisia, Jr. said in an interview.

The President will then meet with Stephen Milligan, chief executive officer of Western Digital Corporation.

Ambassador Cuisia said that President Aquino and Milligan will discuss in the meeting how Western Digital Corporation can expand its operations in the Philippines.

Western Digital is a data storage solutions company. It has a plant in Laguna Technopark with more than 10,000 employees.

“They are quite a large employer in the Philippines. The President will also explore with them the possibility of their setting up shared services in the Philippines,” Cuisia said.

President Aquino will also be meeting with Michael Donnelly, Group President of AECOM’s Enterprise Growth Solutions. “I think the President intends to find out from Mr. Donnelly how the government can help them in expanding the hiring and training of Filipino engineers because they are interested to expand their operations by partnering with private sector clients with respect to infrastructure development,” Cuisia said.

On February 17, President Aquino will meet with members of the Filipino-American community and speak about the Philippines’ achievements under his watch. (PCOO/PND)

14 One Mindanao February 16, 2016

Government to improve power situation in Mindanao

MANILA -- The Inter-Agency Task Force on Securing Energy Facilities (IATFSEF) is fast-tracking the resolution of the right-of-way issues to the restoration of transmission Tower No. 25, which remains isolated since the rehabilitation crew is being denied access by the claimants/landowners.

The situation has impeded Agus Hydroelectric Plant Units 1 & 2 from supplying about 80 megawatts of cheaper power to Mindanao consumers and providing reliable power supply

reducing, if not eliminating, rotating brownouts.

Apart from the provision of inexpensive power from hydro, the IATFSEF is exhausting all means


to immediately return the benefits of host communities from the sale of the electricity from Agus 1 & 2.

Under the Energy Regulations 1-94, host communities of power generating facilities are granted a share of P0.01/kWh of electricity sales to be used for projects that will uplift the living conditions of the communities.

If the transmission tower remains unrepaired, this will result in unutilized electric power generated from Agus 1 & 2, depriving people in affected areas to undertake projects such as electrification, livelihood, health (i.e., ambulance, clinic equipment), social infrastructures (i.e., roads, sports court), and reforestation.

Recognizing the significant benefits that the Mindanaoans are losing, the government calls on all concerned individuals and local government units for their utmost cooperation for the speedy rehabilitation of the damaged transmission tower and vigilance in preventing

activities that threaten the security of energy facilities across the country, especially with the nearing national and local elections. The IATFSEF is composed of the Department of Energy, as lead agency, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Justice, the Department of National Defense, the Department of Public Works and Highways, Presidential Communications Operations Office, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Land Registration Authority, National Electrification Administration, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, National Power Corporation, National Security Council, National Transmission Corporation, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine National Police, Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and Mindanao Development Authority.(DOE)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA 10) Misamis Oriental Provincial Office provided various skills services as its contribution to the 5th Serbisyo Caravan in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental on 3-4 February 2016.

By: Louise Franche J. Hortelano

TESDA 10 provides services in 5th Serbisyo Caravan

The team was led by Director Leo V. Velez with Gerry Constantino C. Quiblat, and Regine Rex L. Acain, TESDA’s supervising technical education skills development (TESD) specialists and Cirilo A. Macalam,

Jr., Kinoguitan National Agricultural School (KNAS) administrator. Hiyasmin A. Apao, Gingoog City’s community training and employment coordinator (CTEC), was the team’s source of information for the caravan’s


details. TESDA Misamis Oriental together with various Technical Vocational Institution (TVI) providers and their services extended particularly (KNAS) – Food Preparation Demo, Lorenz International Training Academy, Inc. (LITAI) - Haircut, Lipunan Family Health Center, Inc. (LFHCI) – Body Massage, Global Mindanaw Polytechnic School, Inc. (GMPSI) – Body Massage, Orient Star Manpower Training Center, Inc. (OSMTCI) – Shakoy and Binangkal Preparation, and St. Nazarene Technological School, Inc. (SNTSI) – Nail Care Services, and various government agencies went up to barangay Kalipay, on the first day of caravan, February 3, to deliver and demonstrate socio-economic services to the residents of the barangay. In addition, TESDA conducted an orientation and consultation on Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB) and on the scholarship programs: Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) and Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA). The event started in the morning and was graced by the presence of Gingoog City Mayor, Marie L. Guingona and other dignitaries involved. DepEd Secretary, Bro. Armin A. Luistro, the keynote speaker, inspired the residents of his peace advocacy, the promotion of the new basic education thru K to 12, as a tool for improving the lives of every Filipinos especially the Lumads and

all Indigenous People (IP) of Gingoog City, Agusan del Norte and Claveria. He also stressed the importance of government agencies in merging to convey the services to the people, as indicated by priorities. Cagayan de Oro City Mayor, Oscar S. Moreno, chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council – X, arrived at the area in the afternoon. The activity was highlighted by the distribution and turning over of health and basic services equipment to the residents of the barangay thru LGU Gingoog. On the second day 4 February, the caravan continued at Lugod Gym, Poblacion, Gingoog City attracting an estimated 20,000 people from over 50 barangays seeking government basic services. Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) together with other government executives were present in the occasion. All Gingoog City Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) providers in cooperation with CTEC Gingoog, KNAS, and TESDA X MisOr PO representatives led by Dir. Leo V. Velez participated the event. The caravan with the theme: “Serbisyo alang sa katawhan; Kalambuan sa dakbayan! Let’s go na! Serbisyo na!” was an effort and initiative of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) and the City Government of Gingoog.


PNP-ICPO advisory council goes basic ‘e-Learning’By: Lorry V. Gabule

ILIGAN CITY – Members of the City Advisory Council of the Philippine National Police-Iligan City Police Office (CAC- PNP ICPO) revisited the PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030 thru Basic e-Learning.

Council members had an on-line reading and review at their own pace of the five web-based learning modules about the PNP Peace and Order Agenda for Transformation and upholding of the Rule Of-Law (PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030), following thereafter, proceeded to an on-line examination to check on their levels of understanding and knowledge of the Plan 2030. The members are also required to give their comments in the short essay. A certificate of completion shall automatically be issued to the examinee. PSupt Enrico J. Engreso, deputy city director for administration and chairman of the center for police strategy management unit (CPSMU), said that they encouraged the council members to undergo this Basic e-Learning to enrich more in its capacity as advisory-body and this shall be part of the Proficiency Stage of the Plan 2030. “We really appreciate the utmost participation of the council members, despite their hectic schedules, spared

their time on pursuing with the Basic e-Learning,” said PSupt Engreso during CPSMU and Advisory Council Meeting on February 5, 2016 at ICPO headquarters, Tipanoy, this city. The five web-based modules include Performance Governance System (PGS)-PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030; Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) Analysis; Customer Analysis; Gap Analysis; and Environmental Scanning. PNP’s vision by 2030, states that it shall be a highly capable, effective and credible police service working in partnership with a responsive community towards the attainment of a safer place to live, work, and do business. The creation of the CAC is to serve as an advisory body of the PNP-ICPO and significantly contributes to the implementation of the PNP’s Integrated Transformation Program-Performance Governance System (PNP ITP-PGS 2030). CAC is composed of representatives from the religious


Power firm cited for occupational safety, healthVILLANUEVA, Misamis Oriental – The Philippine College of Occupational Safety (PCOM) cited energy-firm STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI) for its superior occupational safety and health (OSH) programs and practices.During a benchmarking visit to the 210 MW (net) SPI Mindanao Coal-Fired Power Plant at the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate in Villanueva town, Misamis Oriental, PCOM National Vice President Dr. Ricardo Balagot said SPI’s OSH programs and practices “are worth emulating.” Since start of its power plant operations in 2006, SPI sustained a safe and healthy work environment by achieving more than four million safe man hours with zero lost time

due to accident and zero occupational-related illnesses among its workers. “SPI is a good model and our OSH practitioners could really learn a lot from them,” Dr. Balagot said. For more than four years now, medical doctors enrolled at PCOM for OSH-certification and accreditation come to SPI’s power plant to acquire on-site learning and insights on current best industry practices. (SPI)

sector—parish priest as chairperson, the Department of Education schools division superintendent as vice-chair to include Office of the City Mayor and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) city director. Members are from the business sector-Chamber of Commerce in Iligan, president of the Association of Barangay Captains (ABC), representative from the Association of Retired Police, the Imam, and from the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). Council members is composed

of sectoral leaders or individuals known for their integrity, probity and leadership that pledged to support Iligan City Police Office-Philippine National Police (ICPO-PNP) in the successful implementation and monitoring of the police strategic transformation roadmap. The institutionalization of PGS in the PNP is an important undertaking of its organization as it enhances its role in promoting the country’s global competitiveness, primarily through its work in the field of peace, order and security.


Kidapawan assesses sources of drinking water By: Danilo E.Doguiles

KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, Feb 16 — The city govern-ment here is conducting a drinking water assessment in its jurisdiction.


The assessment, according to a report from the City In-formation Office, aims to de-termine which potable water sources are in danger of dry-ing up due to the on going dry spell brought about the El Nino phenomenon.

This is also in accordance with the order of City Mayor Joseph Evangelista to make sure that the residents in the city have sufficient supply of drinking water in case the dry spell would intensify.

On February 2, the Sang-guniang Panlungsod approved Resolution No. 16-029 and Resolution No. 16-030 placing the city under state of calamity and authorizing the city may-or to use portion of the local risk reduction and management fund for the implementation of the El Nino Calamity Inter-vention program.

Just recently, a team com-posed of personnel from the City DRRM Office, City Health Office and City Engineering Of-fice visited sources of drinking water such as wells, springs and others to examine their current conditions.

The activity is part of the water system assessment that started in the last quarter of

2015. Mayor Evangelista empha-

sized that the city govern-ment would not only make sure that there are sufficient drinking water but also en-sure that water and the sources are clean and safe.

The city government is also coordinating with the Kidapawan Water District to guarantee supply of potable water in the barangays. For this initia-tive, the city LGU has pur-chased water tanks that could be used to store and distribute water to affected villages.

According to DOST-PAGASA, the dry spell is expected to intensify in March and will continue until June. (DEDogu-iles-PIA 12 with report from Kidapawan City Information Office)


BFP-Gensan says erring establishments will be fined

GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Feb 16--- The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) here has found several establishments not conforming to the fire safety standards prescribed under Republic Act 9514 or the Fire Code of the Philippines.

By: Catherine T. Apelacio

The agency has recently initi-ated an inspection where it has discovered various erring estab-lishments, said General Santos City Central Fire Station (GSC-CFS) Fire Marshal Senior In-spector Jeraniel Taporco,

Taporco, who just recently as-sumed GSCCFS chief, said they are intensifying their inspections of nightclubs, bars, and other similar establishments around the city.

“During the inspections, some of the establishments were found with violations of fire safety regulations that could prove dangerous to their pa-trons,” he pointed out.

The authorities looked at the means of egress, fire exits, fire alarms, emergency lights, elec-trical installations and available fire extinguishers.

According to Taporco there are establishments with insufficient

means of egress, obstructed fire exits, and even no fire exits.

“Some of the establishments do not conform to the provisions of the Fire Code of the Philip-pines,” he said.

GSCCFS explained that means of egress refers to the “continu-ous and unobstructed route to exit from one point in a building, structure or facility to a public way.”

It said that establishments found violating the Fire Code will face administrative fines and even closure.

The agency also warned other establishments here to start evaluating their fire safety prac-tice now based on what the law prescribes because they will be conducting another round of inspection very soon. (CT Apel-acio-PIA-12 General Santos City with report from PCChan-GSC-CFS)


Claver OFWs, dependents undergo 4-day IT trainingBy: Jean Pearl Millones

BUTUAN CITY-- In order to keep its members abreast with today’s digital age, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) mobilized a four-day Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Skills Training Seminar to the members of Claver Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Family Circle.


A total of 32 OFWs, active and inactive, and beneficiaries attended the training at the Claver Municipal Convention Hall, municipality of Claver on February 9-12. To make the most use of today’s technology, the Internet and the World Wide Web Modules were lectured, among others. The ability to access the internet makes communication with their loved ones working abroad easier. The Modules on Computer Fundamentals 1 and 2, Microsoft Office including its basics: Word, Excel and PowerPoint were discussed by OWWA Information Technology (IT) Instructor Vincent B. Mahinay. Digital Media Fundamentals, Web Design Fundamentals, Word Processing Fundamentals, and Presentation

Fundamentals were likewise taught. A hands-on execution of the modules was incorporated in the training to facilitate an interactive learning. Mahinay encouraged the participants to continue practicing what they were taught in the training to fully capacitate themselves with the IT. The same ICT modules are offered for walk-in clients: OFWs, their beneficiaries and dependents, in the Regional Welfare Office. Interested applicants may register at the regional office and are required to submit the accomplished form with 1x1 photo, proof of OWWA Membership (Official Receipt, OWWA I.D., O.E.C., Passport), and Proof of Relationship to OFW.


Surigao Norte town to implement online business registration By: DTI-Surigao del Norte

ALEGRIA, Surigao del Norte– In its desire to improve delivery of services to local business community, the municipality of Alegria, Surigao del Norte will be implementing an online business registration in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte provincial office. In preparation of the said conduct, the municipal government requested the DTI provincial office for a briefing on online business registration last January 28, 2016 wherein, a total of 28 local officials and employees of the municipality attended the briefing held at the

Alegria Women’s Center. During the said briefing, DTI technical staff explained the mechanics and requirements of Online Business Name Registration. DTI senior trade specialist Rodrigo R. Matabaran, explained that by virtue of Act No. 3883


otherwise known as the Business Name Law, individuals doing business using names other than their personal names will have to register with the DTI. Hence, business owners have to register their business name before applying for business permits with the local government. The online business registration will be done using the DTI Enhanced Business Registration System (eBNRS) flatform at the DTI website. On his part, mayor Dominador Esma, Jr. appreciated the effort of DTI and committed to support the initiative to extend vital services to their business constituents in Alegria which

is along the business permits and licensing system (BPLS) streamlining program. He said that in localizing the conduct of the said online business registration will, in a way, help the local business owners reduce their cost of doing business by saving on travel expenses in going to Surigao just to have their business name registered or renewed at the DTI office. Esma hoped that some of the requirements needed for the implementation of the online business name registration will be undertaken as soon as possible within this year to serve the micro-entrepreneurs in the municipality.

TESDA helps rebuild houses through carpentry training in SurSur By: Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur– In a joint undertaking with concerned government agencies and instrumentalities, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) provincial office here has continued to make a dent by carrying out its mandate.

Recently, the said agency headed by provincial director Rey Cueva had added another

feather in its cap by holding a five-day “Training Cum Production in Carpentry NC II”


filephoto from http://errcm.blog.com/

for 28 participants whose houses were said to be “washed out” by Typhoon Agaton, the first storm to hit the province in 2014, it was learned. The activity was held in Barangay Bolhoon, San Miguel, 31 kilometers south, this city. According to Cueva, the training aims “To develop skilled carpenters through Community-based Training” and “To rebuild 28 houses washed out by Typhoon Agaton through training cum production process.” The Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO), LGU San Miguel, Philippine Army, Barangay LGU-

Bolhoon, Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU), and their office were cited as “sources of funds” by the TESDA provincial chief. Busy a couple of weeks earlier a series of commitment, the TESDA here had also been host to the 2016 Planning and Budgeting Exercises for TESDA Caraga Execom Members at La Entrada, San Agustin town on January 14-15.


Dipolog CPO beefs up drive vs criminalityDIPOLOG CITY – To ensure peace and order and to help curb criminality in the city, the Philippine National Police (PNP) through the provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte has recently turned-over 80 units of handheld radios to the City Police Office (CPO) here.

By Franklin P. Gumapon


These handheld radios, which cost P1.76 million, were released to the provincial government after it made a request to the PNP headquarters that the province be given 200 handheld radios and five repeaters. The PNP also gave the province a repeater worth P1.5 million, which will be installed at Linabo Peak in Barangay Lugdungan this city. Police Inspector Ryan Macapagal of the Communications and Electronics Office, PNP-9, also disclosed that additional radio sets and repeaters will follow for the municipal police stations in the area.

Macapagal added that the PNP aims to improve the communication equipment and facilities of the police as part of its Peace and Order Agenda for Transformation and Upholding of the Rule of Law (P.A.T.R.O.L) Plan 2030. Moreover, the CPO has also received a patrol car from the city government to further improve its services to the public. Governor Roberto Y. Uy also pledged to give the city police motorbikes to be used in securing the lives and properties of the residents and guests from other places.


By Gideon C. Corgue

GUIPOS, Zamboanga del Sur– The 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion, Philippine Army has a new commander replacing Lt. Col. Alvin Luzon who is now assigned at the Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) in Zamboanga City as unified command staff.

53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) battalion has new commander

Lt. Col. Virgilio Hamos Jr. took over as commander of the 53rd Infantry Battalion, which is based in Camp Major David P. Sabido in Poblacion, Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur effective Feb. 1. Hamos, who is Luzon’s

mistah at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Bantay-Laya” (Protectors of Freedom) class of 1994, was previously assigned at G3 (operations), Philippine Amy headquarters. In his message, Luzon said


“the unit extends the same support and sense of duty to the incoming commander.” As his mistah, he knew Hamos as a hardworking and dedicated leader.

“I am confident that with Lt. Col. Hamos, the team “MATAPAT” will continue to tread the way and ready to face the challenges posed by rapidly changing security environment,” Luzon announced. “He is the perfect commander who shall continue with our motto: Sa 5rd IB Hindi Pwede ang Pwede Na,” Luzon said adding “excellence is the MATAPAT’s way of life.” Luzon said: “I may be leaving but I am not saying goodbye.” “I bid you farewell to prepare, be ready and to continue my journey in military service. As in the sports of Golf, the most

important shot is the next one,” he added. Luzon expressed his profound gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed greatly to the remarkable accomplishments during his stint as commander of the unit. He particularly thanked the officers and enlisted personnel whom he claimed to have contributed significantly to the unit’s successes. “These accomplishments were made because of you,” the teary-eyed

commander declared. Meanwhile, Hamos expressed his gratitude to the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division for giving him the opportunity to lead the unit. “I would like to express my gratitude to the leadership of the 1st Infantry Tabak Division for giving me the opportunity to


By Felipe M. FernandoLAMITAN CITY, Basilan – The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DSWD-ARMM) led the turnover of capital seed funds to 33 Self-Employment Assistance-Kabuhayan (SEA-K) associations in Basilan recently.

DSWD-ARMM turns-over capital seed fund to 33 SEA-K in Basilan

lead this unit. Though, it is not an easy job to be at par with the outstanding performance of my predecessor,” Hamos said. Hamos however, vowed to pursue the programs and activities, which were started by his predecessor. “To the outgoing commander, rest assured that what you have started will be pursued with much dedication,” Hamos assured. “I will build upon your accomplishments. I will do what

an officer must do that is, to accomplish the mission. To the men and women of the 53rd IB I offer you my full commitment to serve. I will work with you, struggle with you, and fight with you.” The event was attended by the Tabak commander, Major General Gerardo Barrientos Jr., the event’s keynote speaker, Governor Antonio Cerilles, local chief executives, and other stakeholders.

The program turned-over P250 thousand capital seed fund to each of the 33 SEA-K in the province in a simple turnover ceremony held at the Datu Dizal Cutural Center last Feb. 3. The DSWD said such fund would help develop sustainable income to families for community development.

In her message, Mayor, Rose Uy Furigay thanked the ARMM Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman and Provincial Governor Jum Akbar for ‘they are leading forces and the backbone in the implementation of the program.” “It is in this line of work that we continue to engage partners like the DSWD-ARMM to sustain


our efforts for community development,” the mayor said in a written message read by her assistant Joey Leonardo. “I am looking forward to where all community will really be progressive and has largely contributed in increasing production and labor market in the city of Lamitan and the entire province of Basilan,” she added. DSWD-ARMM Regional Secretary Rahima Datumanong-Alba and Assistant Regional Secretary Hadja Pombaen K. Kader and the PSWD personnel were also present in the said event. Rahima said the regional governor had asked the DSWD to be visible and show sincerity in providing social welfare services to the constituents in ARMM. “For Basilan we have around 50 associations who will be receiving the grant. But for now we are turning-over the funds to 33 associations, the rest will be

receiving later,” she said. The 33 associations in Basilan include 11 from Lamitan City, two from Maluso town, five from Akbar, four from Tuburan, three from Al-Barka, two from Ungkaya Pukan, one from Lantawan and five from Mohammad Adjul. Meanwhile, Provincial Assistant Administrator Nurkaisa Alidain challenged beneficiaries to sustain the livelihood projects. She said the program must be continued to improve the quality of living of the community. DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), which started in 2011 is a community-based capacity building program that equips the participants to actively contribute to production and labor markets by looking at available resources and accessible markets to improve socio-economic status of poor families by creating more employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.

one mindanao - february 16, 2016

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