one mindanao - march 17, 2014

Even in captivity, teacher Cathy’s thoughts are with her pupilsMichael Vincent D. CajulaoWESTERN MINDANAO

MONDAY, MARCH 17, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 141

President Aquino leads 109th PMA Commencement Exercises

NATIONAL

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Page 4

NORTHERN MINDANAO

WESTERN MINDANAO

CENTRAL MINDANAO

SOUTHERN MINDANAO

Civil Service Commission launches Computerized Exams in R-XI

South Cotabato to roll out employee locator system

499 Out-of-school youths in Ozamiz benefit from SCALA

Malaybalay CDRRMO gets new rescue vehicles, equipment

Over 500 families benefit from NorthCot’s outreach program

Gov’t troops vows to wipe out lawlessness in South PHL

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21

14 15

22

34

Shahana Joy E. Duerme

Rio Adam T. Opiala

Joey Sem G. Dalumpines

Information to Empower Filipinos

10 6 12

Danilo E. Doguiles

CARAGA REGION

DTI Surigao Norte steps up campaign on Consumer Act

Caraga RCC bares job opportunities, workers development initiatives

25 26

Susil D. Ragas

Jennifer P. Gaitano

Rene V. Carbayas

“Buntis Congress” benefits 300 IDPs 35 Jocelyn P. Alvarez

Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

Even in captivity, teacher Cathy’s thoughts are with her pupils

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Even in captivity, teacher Cathy’s thoughts are with her pupils

Aperson’s greatness is measured in

times of great distress.

This is how Cathy Mae B. Casipong, a 23-year old public elementary school teacher, can be described after she expressed her worries not for her own safety but, instead, for her little pupils in Sibuctuc Island, Barangay Limaong, east of the city. She was released by her kidnappers last March 11, in the nearby town of Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay after almost 3 months of captivity. In a press briefing at theCityHall, teacher Cathy tearfully narrated

how worried she was, foremost, for her pupils whom she’s devoted her love and efforts. “I was thinking who will be teaching them in every day that I’m not with them because I know how interested those kids to learn. They would often come to me and say they don’t have pencils and papers, and I would tell them not to worry, I will bring some next time for them to write. They would come early each day to school to learn even if they have not eaten anything that is why it’s so painful for me that

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

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they kidnapped me,” teacher Cathy narrated with tears welling up in her eyes. Cathy, on board a banca (boat) with two other teachers, was kidnapped on December 18, 2013 while on their way to buy gifts for the children for their Family Day party, a celebration that had never realized. “I apologize for the botched Family Day celebration for the kids. I have not forgotten my promise to them. I told the kids, tomorrow is our party and I want all of us to be happy sinceit’smyfirsttimetocelebrateitwith you,” she recounted. Mayor Beng Climaco-Salazar, touched and moved to tears by teacher Cathy’s story, said: “The kidnappers did not only kidnap teacher Cathy, but they also robbed the children and their family of a celebration that would have made

them happy.” She also urged all barangay officials and residents of the cityto help in protecting the teachers assigned in their areas. “Our teachers are our heroes. Theysacrificedtoearneducationinorder to teach our pupils, particularly in the far-flungbarangays.Weaskthe barangays to commit themselves, together with the parents, in protecting our teachers who give our children education. They only have their hearts set to teach our children so that they will have a bright future,” Climaco-Salazar said. Mr. Joel Marcos of Department of Education-Zamboanga City said they will be transferring Ms. Casipong to a school nearer to her residence to help her recover from the trauma.

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President Aquino renews commitment for defense modernization, livelihood for soldiers

President Benigno S. Aquino III assured the members of the armed forces of government support so that they could

have the tools and skills to perform their duties more effectively.

Across the Nation

The President said in his message during the commencement exercises of the Philippine Military Academy here on Sunday that the government knows the needs of the soldiers and it is doing everything to improve their conditions.

“Ang hangad po natin: Bigyang lakas din kayo na paunlarin ang inyong sarili at

inyong pamilya. Patuloy tayong naglalatag ng mga hakbang upang hindi kayo mapag-iwanan ng panahon sa kasanayan bilang sundalo at sa kakayahang itaguyod ang magandang kinabukasan,” the President said in his message.

Among the major thrusts of his administration is to give the members

7 MARCH 2014 | PAGE

Across the Nationof the Armed forces the weapons and tools they need to be more effective.

For instance, he said that the bidding for the purchase of two new twin-engine naval anti-submarine helicopters has started.

The military is also replacing Vietnam War-era rifles with the acquisition of 63,000 assault rifles for the soldiers in the next few months, he said.

The government is also ready to buy 12 lead-in fighter trainer aircraft from South Korea that will be used for the country’s territorial defense operations.

Prior to this, the military has bought modern ships for sea patrols, eight Sokol combat utility helicopters, three Navy helicopters, and other new military vehicles, he added. He also said that the government targets to buy eight additional combat utility helicopters that will be used for search and rescue and disaster-relief missions before he steps down from the presidency.

Aside from modernizing the military, the administration has programs for soldiers such as housing and livelihood, the chief executive said. “Sa ngayon po, nasa 54,449 na abot-kayang tahanan na ang ating naipagawa para sa mga miyembro ng ating unipormadong hanay,” he said.

Sa pagsasanib-puwersa naman ng Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of the Interior and Local Government,

Department of National Defense, umuusad na rin ang ating programang pangkabuhayan para sa ating mga aktibo at retiradong mga kawal,” he added.

Under the government’s livelihood program, areas in three military camps – Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, Camp Kibaritan in Bukidnon, and Camp Peralta in Capiz will become plantations for bamboo, coffee, cacao and palm oil.

“Tunay pong sa pag-angat ng ekonomiya ng bansa, mas nabibigyan tayo ng pagkakataong suklian ang serbisyo ng ating mga kawal ng bayan,” he said.

The President is in Baguio City Sunday to lead the 109th graduation rites of PMA’s Siklab Diwa Class of 2014. PND

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President Aquino leads 109th PMA Commencement Exercises

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the graduation rites Sunday of the Philippine Military Academy Siklab Diwa Class

of 2014 encouraging the cadets to observe the academy’s Honor Code even outside the learning institution when they start their respective assignments.

In his message here in Fort del Pilar, the President said he is confident that the PMA’s Siklab Diwa Class will live up to the principles of adhering to their oath when they start to serve the people.

“Batid ko nga po: Dangal ang isa sa mga haligi ng istitusyong ito—ang dangal ng pagiging kawal, ng pagsusuot ng inyong mga uniporme, at ng pagsaludo sa ating bandila; ang dangal ng pagkakaroon ng isang

9 MARCH 2014 | PAGE

Sandatahang Lakas, na talaga pong nabawi na ang paghanga at tiwala ng ating mga mamamayan,” the President said.

“Kaya naman ang hamon sa ating lahat: Kung tungkulin nating pairalin ang Honor Code sa loob ng istitusyong ito, panindigan din sana natin sa labas ng PMA. Kung bawal magsinungaling sa klase at sa kapwa kadete, ‘di ba’t hindi rin dapat hayaan ang sinuman, kapwa man sundalo o karaniwang mamamayan, na linlangin at paikut-ikutin ang kapwa at ang Saligang Batas?”

As the cadets shunned cheating in class while inside the PMA, the President said he expects them to avoid corruption such as when procuring military weaponry. If a cheater is being punished in class in the PMA, he asked the graduating cadets to help the government go after those who abuse the trust of the people.

After spending

four years inside the academy, the cadets will start to experience the harsh conditions outside when they step out of Fort del Pilar, the President said. There are challenges that lie ahead, the chief executive noted, adding that he hopes the cadets will apply the principles they learned in the academy not to give in to temptations in the real world.

“Bilang Commander-in-Chief, umaasa akong kung gaano ka-automatic sa inyo na ilapat ang teorya at taktikang inyong natutuhan sa tunay na bakbakan, ay siya rin sanang tatag ng inyong prinsipyong itakwil ang mali, at pumanig sa katuwiran,” he said. PND

10MARCH 2014 | www.pia.gov.ph PAGE |

WB to review DA’s poverty alleviation program in Mindanao

The World Bank (WB) will conduct a review on the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) of the Department of Agriculture (DA)

this month to assess its impact on boosting the productivity of farmers and fisherfolk and improving the capability of local government units to deliver basic agricultural services in the region.

The review which will start on Monday intends to look into the progress of the projects implemented under the MRDP.

“The review seeks to continue assisting DA in achieving the project objectives by assessing the projects’ performance status and trajectory as the program is

expected to end by December this year,” MRDP Program director Lealyn Ramos said in a statement.

The evaluation which is undertaken twice a year is the eleventh review mission of the WB since the program started in 2007, according to Director Ramos.


WB to review DA’s poverty alleviation program in Mindanao

The WB, in its previous review in September, commended the program for its efficient disbursement rate and timely implementation of its projects.

The MRDP has attained an overall accomplish rate of 85.26 percent from its components namely rural infrastructure, community fund for agricultural development, and natural resources management.

The rural infrastructure (RI) obtained an 84.25 percent accomplishment, while the 87.55 percent was accomplished under the Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD) and 88.87 percent under the natural resources management (NRM).

The RI component has a total of P 4.51 billion worth of sub-projects of which, P 2.51 billion were completed and PhP2 billion are ongoing.

Among the infrastructure projects that were implemented include the construction of 855.44 kilometers of farm-to-market roads and 496.2 linear meters of bridges which is crucial in bringing the farmers’ produce to the market.

A total of 2,242 hectares of communal irrigation projects/systems were also constructed and rehabilitated providing sufficient water to increase production of rice farmers.

On the other hand, the CFAD component completed P 948.14 million worth of sub-projects which

include livestock production, small infrastructure, postharvest facilities, integrated farming systems, crop production, and fishery sub-projects which benefited a total of 175,666 members of various people’s organizations in Mindanao.

Meanwhile, the NRM component has implemented sub-projects worth P 146.76 million consisting of agroforestry, riverbank stabilization, fish sanctuary and mangrove rehabilitation sub-projects.

The agroforestry sub-projects covered at least 2,367 hectares including areas in Linamon, Lanao del Norte and Jamiguitan in Agusan del Norte.

Around 648 hectares of mangrove areas were also rehabilitated including areas in Surigao del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay.

“With these numbers, MRDP has made significant contributions in promoting inclusive growth and supporting poverty alleviation efforts in Mindanao,” Deputy Program Director Arnel de Mesa said.

MRDP2 is a poverty alleviation initiative of DA implemented in 225 towns in Mindanao. Its total funding of US3.90 million is sourced out from the US.75 loan portfolio from the WB and the equity share of the national government and partner LGUs.


CDO pays tribute to Juana on Women’s Dayby Recthie T. Paculba

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – To highlight women’s contributions in nation building, the Cagayan de Oro City local government held various activities on Women’s Day which include a Solidarity Walk, poster making contest and Hataw at the City Tourism Hall on March 8.


With the Women’s Month theme, “Juana, ang Tatag Mo ay Tatag Natin sa Pagbangon at Pagsulong,” the International Women’s Day celebration was graced by Presiding Judge of the Regional Trial court Branch 19 Evelyn G. Nery, various women’s groups, government and non-government organizations. As the keynote speaker, Nery mentioned notable empowered women who made a big difference and have shown empowerment even in the early times like Deborah--the first woman judge in the bible to whom men in Israel lined up to just to listen to her wisdom and let her lead the troop in fighting their enemies. In the recent time, the presiding judge identified some more inspiring women who made the world a better place live in such as Margaret Thatcher—the iron lady of Great Britain, Hillary Clinton—United States Secretary of the Defense and in the Philippines she mentioned the former presidents Corazon Aquino

and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Kim Henares, Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago and Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales of the Sandiganbayan who remarkably left a legacy in their own fields. However, she shared that even with these

notable contributions, many have trampled on women’s rights and a lot of people have forgotten that a woman has her rights and these rights were given to her the moment she was born. “Our dignity comes from the fact that we are daughters of God; we are God’s creation,” Nery said. She also stressed the five causes of women abuse and these include ignorance, lack of information, fear, shamefulness and failure to remember that God empowers her. To surmount these kinds of abuse, Nery pointed out that women should be given the right to education and equal treatment in terms of giving a certain position in an office or organization without resorting to ‘sextortion’—giving of opportunities in exchange of favors; physical abuse for that matter. Furthermore, the present Juana (Filipino women) according to Nery is beautiful, strong, intelligent and God-fearing who can definitely


499 Out-of-school youths in Ozamiz benefit from SCALAby Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental – At least 499 members of the Pag-Asa Youth Association of the Philippines (PYAP) benefited from the Sharing Computer Access Locally and Abroad (SCALA) Project in the city.

Of this number, 328 were females, 171 were males, of whom eight were persons with disabilities (PWD), Ludie Salud A. Raras, City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) Officer, said. Likewise, 322 of them, 193 males, 129 females and a PWD, are already working, 96 have gone back to formal school while the rest are seeking for jobs in other places, Raras, said. She also said most of the SCALA graduates have been hired as

Encoders of the Community-Based Information Management System (CBMIS) of the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO). Others have been referred to the different government agencies, such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Public Employment and Services Office (PESO) for job opportunities. Implemented by the Engineers Without Borders (EWB) of Canada

surpass all the challenges in life. Aside from Nery, solidarity messages were also heard from the Barangay Women Development Council (BWDC), Touch Foundation, Gabriela, Filipina and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Women from BWDC, Indigenous People (IP), Muslim community, Philippine Army, Violence Against Women committee and solo parents also imparted their experience on

how the community empowered them and made them fully realize their strengths by giving them certain positions in their respective offices and organizations. According to the Philippine Commission on Women, the International Women’s Day is observed to recognize women’s contributions to all society and promote gender equality.


499 Out-of-school youths in Ozamiz benefit from SCALA

Zubiri said he wants the CDRRMO to be equipped to aid rescuers in carrying out its mission to save lives and properties. The newly-acquired equipment amounting to nearly P7.5 million includes three rescue vehicles and a 35-horse power motor rescue boat. Alan J. Comiso, CDRRM Officer, said the equipment would greatly enhance the capability of rescuers especially that the operations unit is now moving fast in building up expertise by involving themselves in tough trainings on search and rescue.

“With the augmentation of the right tools, we will be better equipped in the field,” he said. Meanwhile, KABALIKAT Radio Communications Group (KABALIKAT-RCG) president Rev. Father Veneracion P. Balansag Jr. asked God’s favor and protection when he led the consecration and blessing rite attended by CDRRM committee members and news media at Bukidnon Diner in Casisang village, this city. Father Balansag is also a new member of the CDRRM council representing the KABALIKAT-RCG.

by Rio Adam T. Opiala

Malaybalay CDRRMO gets new rescue vehicles, equipment

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon - Malaybalay City Mayor Ignacio W. Zubiri recently turned over rescue and emergency equipment to the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO).

and the Local Government Unit (LGU), the SCALA Project is handled by the City Youth Information and Communication Technology Training Center for Out-of-School Youths (OSY) and Youth With Disabilities (YWD). Under the SCALA Project, an OSY-beneficiary undergoes a 10-month training program in computer

operations that would prepare him/her for job opportunities, not only for domestic employment, but also abroad. Meanwhile, she said the SCALA Project receives an annual budget of Php320,000 from the LGU for the operations of the training center.


Davao needs ladder trucks for high-rises- BFP

DAVAO CITY- Davao Region needs fire ladder trucks that could reach high-rise buildings this according to the Bureau of Fire Protection. Fire Inspector Nestor Jimenez of the Intelligence and

Investigation Branch BFP-XI bared that the region has more than 40 high-rise buildings more than 20 of these buildings are located in Davao City.

by Rudolph Alama


Jimenez said their definition of a high-rise is a structure about 15 meters and above in height or a building of about 5 stories and up. He said currently the region has at least two fire ladder trucks. However these truck ladders can only reach five floors. “They were purchased in 1981, when the tallest building in the City was Maguindanao Hotel.” Jimenez said. The now closed Maguindanao Hotel is a seven-storey structure and for many years was the tallest

building in Davao City. However high-rise hotels, condominiums and office buildings has been built in the city with more high-rises under construction. Jimenez said only the BFP has the ladder trucks, even Davao City’s Fire Auxiliary Service of the Central 911 and the volunteer fire brigades has no ladder capability enough to reach tall buildings. He said that ladder trucks are very expensive fire-fighting equipment as they cost about P20- P40 million. But according to him the

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is asking for a data on the region’s high rise buildings as to determine the need for more capable ladder trucks. There is a P3.4 billion-modernization fund allocated by the DILG for the Bureau of Fire Protection to purchase modern fire trucks. With this fund the BFP has received brand-new Austrian-made Rosenbauer Fire Trucks, which are deployed to various local government units in need of firefighting equipment. (PIA/RG Alama)


DAVAO CITY- The Civil Service Commission in Davao Region formally launched its computer-ized examination program Friday aimed at encouraging citizens to take the test as passport to gov-ernment service and to offer the exam as tool for hiring employees in the private sector. The activity was graced by Civil Service Commissioner Nieves Osorio and Fernando Porio, Director IV of the CSC. Osorio said the computerized examination (COMEX) is another manifestation by the CSC to provide quality service to the public in the area of examination administration. “The COMEX streamlines the whole examination process from the application by a prospective examinee to the actual exam and release of the test results. It provides wider reach and better opportunities for interested applicants from other parts of the country enabling them to take the examination close to home,” she said. Osorio said the COMEX will enter into a wide area network system. She said every regional office has a testing center connected to a local server and all local servers will be connected to the national server

at the CSC national office. Osorio admitted that the program is dependent to the availability of stable power supply. She said online registration can be done any time of the day, at the inter cafe or at home. Osorio said prior to the taking of exams, the applicants’ biometrics will be examined thoroughly to avoid impersonation. She also said that the test results will be known one hour after the exam. Atty. Anabelle Rosell, director of the CSC 11 said that computerized exam at the CSC 11 will be conducted every Thursday. She said the examinee must register first online prior to the actual extracting of his biometrics on the day of the examination. Rosell assured that the system is fool-proof from impersonation and cheating. “Examinees will have choices of taking the exam through pencil and paper based set on April and October or the Comex every Thursday,” she said. Fernando Porio, director IV of the CSC said the Comex will only cost P680 per examinee. He said that the examinee can retake the exam if he cannot pass it the first after three months. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

Civil Service Commission launches Computerized Exams in R-XI


COTABATO CITY ---His Eminence Orlando Cardinal Quevedo, OMI, DD, said being the first cardinal in Mindanao highlighted the real meaning of his new appointment.

Being a Cardinal is a position of servanthood -- QuevedoBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme


In his thanksgiving mass Tuesday, Quevedo said that being a cardinal means to go out and serve further.

“Being a cardinal is not about a position of power and honor, it is a position of servanthood,” he said.

According to him, he was called by God to be of service to the people, to uplift them from everything that oppresses them especially from sinfulness.

“Being a cardinal, I am called for a deeper mission, a mission to promote the context of serving and loving mostly in a land that needs to be healed,” Quevedo added.

He also emphasized that even though he is a cardinal in Mindanao, he will reach out to other religious leaders of different tribes.

Meanwhile, he called for prayers and solidarity for him to perform his

tasks as he believes that with support and collaboration, he can be in touch with the needy particularly those who are poor in spirit.

On the other hand, President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino, III lauded Quevedo for his strong foundation of deeper faith and affection to people.

Aquino highlighted Quevedo’s contributions in the country especially during the Marcos dictatorship.

“Quevedo joined us in the battle for democracy to end the abuse of power and to fight for the rights of the people. He also took initiative in advancing peace among tri-people in Mindanao through peaceful dialogues,” he noted.

With Quevedo’s new title, the president is optimistic that the Philippines is on its way of changing for the better. (SJDuerme-PIA12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- The provincial government of South Cotabato is set to implement soon a computer-based system that would monitor the location of the provincial government employees during working hours.

South Cotabato to roll out employee locator system

Provincial Administrator Danilo Supe in a recent press conference said the Provincial Planning and Development Office expects to begin installation of the Employee Locator System in all offices under the provincial government, including those located outside of the provincial capitol compound, next week.

“Once the system is installed each employee can be tracked wherever they go during office hours,” Supe said.

Developed by the Information Technology Unit of the PPDO, the locator system requires an employee to encode identification number as destination and purpose as well as scan a finger for biometric data before leaving the office.

Upon return to the station, the same employee needs to repeat the process of encoding ID number and fingerprint scanning.

Once the system is fully operational, Supe added, this should address the problem regarding some employees

gallivanting or going out of the office for unofficial purposes.

It is also seen as a replacement to the “pass-slip system” which he describes as only effective for employees assigned inside the capitol compound.

“Anytime a supervisor wants to know the location of a staff, he or she only needs to refer to the locator system. Anybody who is not present in the office but has not logged out may be out for questionable purposes,” he said.

Supe, however, clarified that the system, along with penalties for violations, will only be carried out in full after a trial period to familiarize the provincial LGU employees of its use.

The official estimated that they may be able to install the locator system next week when the fingerprint scanning units arrive.

He said, the employee locator system is part of the administrative reforms Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes would like all departments to carry out for a more effective governance.

By: Danilo E. Doguiles


PIKIT, North Cotabato— A total of 592 families from this town particularly in the conflict-stricken village of Paidu Pulangi benefit from the provincial gov-ernment’s recent outreach program, including medical-dental services and farm animal vaccination.

Over 500 families benefit from NorthCot’s outreach programBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

Cynthia Ortega, head of the province’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center (DRRMOC) said that relief goods were also given to the beneficiary families who were mostly evacuees from nearby villages.

Data from the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) revealed that 565 persons were given free check up while 75 individuals availed of the tooth extraction.

Moreover, 23 young boys were circumcised through the help of military personnel from the 602nd Brigade and the 7th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

Meanwhile, veterinarians from the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVet) conducted deworming, vaccination and vitamin supplementation for a total of 65 farm animals while the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) distributed seedlings and planting materials of various crops to hundreds of farm families.

Abdilla Mangansakan, chairman of Barangay Paidu Pulangi thanked the provincial government of North Cotabato for the help it gave to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the area.

“I would like to express my appreciation to the provincial government and to Gov. Emmylou Mendoza for all her programs that cater to a great number of people like the IDPs,” Mangansakan said.

He particularly mentioned the bancas and gill nets given by the provincial government to many fishermen in Paidu Pulangi during the last quarter of 2013.

These fishermen were heavily affected by series of storm that hit the country last year and were left with nothing after flash floods destroyed their homes and other properties. (SJDuerme-PIA12/JSta. Cruz&RASotto-N. Cotabato Provincial Government)

Besides the locator, the PPDO is also working on a payroll system and a paperless system for other

transactions such as processing of purchase requests. (DEDoguiles with Allan Biwang-PIA 12)


Butuan City plants 1,500 seedlings at “Vision 2020” launchingBy Noel NajarroBUTUAN CITY - The Butuan City government led by Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr.; spearheaded early Sunday morning the “Grow A Million Trees Program,” activity as one of the initiatives in support to its “Vision 2020.”


The 1,500 ten-feet long mahogany and narra seedlings were planted at the 5-kilometer stretch area from Bancasi Rotunda to the boundary of Brgy. Bancasi-Bonbon area. The activity is envisioned to transcend the usual tree planting activity, in a sense that a family or group of five individuals may plant a tree and will nurture and grow the tree specie planted as its own. In this way, planting trees will start to become a way of life for each and every Butuanon.

Among the concepts of the implementation of the “Grow A Million Tree Program” is for the local government to envision with the private stakeholders to be an agent of sustainable, resilient, environmentally sound economic growth and development, providing the people of Butuan, its visitors and investors with pro-active, participative and empowering governance under a united leadership.

The program also envisioned that by the year 2020

“Butuan City will be a model for sustainable, forest-based economy in the country, thereby giving its people the highest per-capita income in Mindanao.”

A tree nurturing guide was provided to every participant which included the following activities: 1) The planted tree seedling will be visited once in every week to make it better

cared-for and valued; 2) During the visits, the condition of the planted tree will be checked. Observed unhealthy or critical condition will be reported to the City Barangay Affairs Office; 3) Before leaving the seedling spot, a yellow ribbon will be tied at the corresponding tree guard to indicate that such seedling had been visited and cared-for for the week; 4) Every 16th day of each succeeding month, a joint simultaneous celebration of the wellness of the tree will be held on site. The monthly celebrations will run for six months.

Another get-together is scheduled on April 16 and the future months to follow.


DTI Surigao Norte steps up campaign on Consumer Act

SURIGAO DEL NORTE -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office here is doubling its efforts in its campaign to raise public awareness of their rights and responsibilities.

By Susil D. Ragas

Just recently, DTI conducted a one-day Consumer Education Seminar in Surigao City on the salient features of Republic Act 7394 or Consumer Act of the Philippines.

Among the attendees of the seminar are the women’s group, barangay kagawads and officials, selected national line agencies and 4P’s beneficiaries. The activity is also in line with the Women’s Month celebration, it was learned.

Topics presented and discussed during the session were Eight Basic

Rights and Five Responsibilities of Consumer; Consumer Complaints Handling; Deceptive Sales Acts and Practices; and Household Energy Saving Tips.

Chairperson committee on Women and Family, City Councilor Rise Faith R. Recabo, in her message, lauded the effort of the DTI in organizing the said activity that provides valuable inputs and information as a consumer. She also cited the relevance of women especially when it comes to financial management.



BUTUAN CITY -- The member agencies of the Caraga Regional Coordinating Committee chaired by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through regional director Atty. Johnson Cañete bared various job opportunities and its initiatives for the development of workers.

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

Cañete said some 1,000 beneficiaries in the region have already availed of the DOLE’s Emergency Employment Assistance. DOLE has also other programs and services that caters to the different sectors in the community.

“The DOLE’s Government Internship Program (GIP) continues to serve the fresh graduates in Caraga region who

are jobless and we can have a total of 131 GIPs if the local government units in the different districts will utilize their 3.5-M budget for this program,” said Cañete.

Regional director Petrona Bergado of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) also revealed that their office is focused on the development of the families especially



those who have family member/s working abroad. “We wanted to help the family of the Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) who are left behind to become financial literate since working as OFW is temporary and so we wanted them to establish their own livelihood,” she remarked.

“We conduct different trainings for the immediate families of the Caraganon OFWs which they can use in their livelihood and future businesses,” added Bergado.

Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) Caraga regional director Florencio Sunico reported that more scholarship programs are now being offered by TESDA. He further enjoined interested applicants for scholarship to go to TESDA provincial offices for profiling purposes so that they will be advised what TESDA courses are they going to take in accordance with the demands of the industry here and abroad.

Olga Virginia Demata of the Employees Compensation Commission (ECC) in Butuan City said that their office is continuously conducting in-house trainings wherein they invite different companies and hold the training at the ECC office while with the on-site training, the ECC personally visits the companies and then hold the training at the respective establishments.

“In coordination with other concerned government agencies, we see to it that

workers get the due benefits and compensation from their employers. We do conduct monitoring on these establishments, companies,” stressed Demata.

Lee Christian Jaquit of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) also reported that their office is regularly conducting trainings for the safety of workers. “Next week, we are set to conduct training for the manufacturing industry. The training on Fire Safety is also ongoing which is in line with the observance of this year’s Fire Prevention Month,” he said.

Meanwhile, Rotelo Cabugsa of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) in Butuan City announced that applicants can now apply for board exam online. “We are working on for the prompt release of the board exam results so board passers can also use it for their job applications,” he said.

The RCC will convene the local media again for its monthly briefing on each of the agencies ongoing programs and services, special projects, as well its accomplishments.

Dominga MallongaDOST-Caraga Regional Director

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

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


BFP bats for putting up fire station in every municipalityBy Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – “The thrust now of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is to establish a fire station in every municipality.”


This was disclosed by Supt. Edmundo F. Naraga, assistant regional director of BFP-9, in a media forum held here recently. Naraga, however, said that putting up a fire station in every local government unit (LGU) requires a considerable amount, as each station must have firemen and at least one fire truck. As of now, there are only 167 firemen assigned in Zamboanga del Sur with 13 fire trucks. The province has 26 towns and one city. Provincial Fire Marshall Gerson S. Sisona also bared that these 13 fire trucks were distributed to the following LGUs: Pagadian City – 5, Molave – 2, Tukuran – 1, Aurora – 1, Ramon Magsaysay – 1, Margosatubig – 1, and Dinas-1. The remaining 20 towns have no fire trucks yet. With the BFP’s limited manpower and fire-fighting equipment, Sisona has called on the public to help prevent fire, as “fire prevention is everybody’s business and a year-round activity.” The BFP is now spearheading the fire prevention month celebration with the theme, “Isulong ang Kaunlaran, Sunog ay Iwasan, Kaalaman at Pag-iingat ang Kailangan.”


The Western Mindanao Command based in Zamboanga City reported that a suspected member of Abu Sayyaf was killed with undetermined number wounded during an encounter with the government troops and Barangay Police Auxiliary Team (BPAT) at Barangay Long Kiaban, Talipao, Sulu last Febr. 14. The encounter is said to be the result of the continuous Joint Law Enforcement Operation of the PNP, BPAT and AFP in close coordination with the Sulu Provincial Government which aims to wipe out lawless elements in the province of Sulu. Marine Brigade spokesperson, Capt Ryan F Lacuesta PN(M), identified the slain Abu Sayyaf as Jul Asmin Sangkula. He said the clashes began early morning in Barangay Long Kiaban, Talipao when BPAT engaged the Abu Sayyaf Group while moving towards Mabahay, Talipao which were immediately reinforced by the government troops that left one ASG killed and several others were wounded, while minimal casualty from the BPAT and AFP was reported. The firefight lasted for about an hour. The AFP together with the PNP and BPAT are still in pursuit operation to eliminate remaining identified lawless elements in the province of Sulu. Meanwhile, another ASG member was apprehended recently in Basilan. In a press release, the Western Mindanao Command reported that a

combined operation conducted by the elements of PNP and supported by AFP in Basilan have apprehended a certain Kudairik Abdulla aka ABU ASSAD/BOBOY on March 5, 2014, around 1:30 p.m. at Lampinigan Island, Isabela City, Basilan. Abdulla is a Basilan-based ASG member under the group of Isnilon Hapilon. He is a son of Nasirun Abdulla who is also an ASG member and brother of Bong Abdulla who was arrested in 2006 and killed during the Bicutan Siege. The suspected ASG has a standing Warrant of Arrest with case no. 16668 for kidnapping and serious illegal detention with ransom issued by RTC-NCR, Judicial Region, Branch-69, Pasig City. He was also involved in the series of kidnappings at Dos Palmas Resort in 2011, Jeffrey Schilling and Tairan in 2001, Jehovah’s Witnesses in 2002, and Tumahubong kidnapping. ABDULLA was immediately turned-over to Headquarters PRO-9 for custodial debriefing and appropriate disposition. The successful operation was made possible through a close coordination between the AFP and the PNP on the ground. Both will continue with their intensified joint pursuit operations to hunt down on other lawless elements and criminals in order to reduce criminalities and eventually restore peace and order in the entire Mindanao.

Gov’t troops vows to wipe out lawlessness in South PHLBy Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – The combined elements of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are now intensifying their operations against lawlessness in southern Philippines with the apprehension and neutralization of suspected Abu Sayyaf members.


DSWD in a news statement said, this year’s Buntis Congress is specifically focused on pregnant internally displaced persons (IDPs) - victims of the Zamboanga crisis last year who are up to now housed at the JFE Sports Complex grandstand. The Buntis Congress was aimed at orienting the participants on women’s health and other concerns related to childbirth and childcare. During the said congress, Dr. Gracia Gacrama, in-house medical officer conducted lectures related to pregnancy and childbirth. An open forum was also conducted with the participants asking questions and sharing tips about pregnancy. Good hygiene, eating a well-balanced-diet and ensuring daily light exercises are also among the topics taken up. Meanwhile, DSWD-FO IX Director Zenaida Arevalo assured the participants of free medical services for IDPs. She advised the women to bring their access cards every time they come for free medical services at the Zamboanga City Medical Center as proof that they are indeed IDPs. The Social Welfare office also

distributed to the participants gift packs containing baby/infant wear, ‘malong’, canned goods, energy biscuits, a pair of slippers, sleeping mats and hygiene kit. The pregnant women also brought home with them 25 kilos of rice (each) from Tzu-Chi Foundation. The Buntis Congress is one of the activities lined up for the women’s month celebration. This year’s women’s month celebration is anchored on the theme, “Juana: Ang Tatag mo ay Tatag natin sa Pagbangon at Pagsulong”, which aims to highlight the strength and resilience of Filipino women who have shown courage and support after surpassing trials and difficulties brought about by the numerous calamities.

“Buntis Congress” benefits 300 IDPsBy Jocelyn P. Alvarez

Zamboanga City - Close to 300 pregnant women participated in the “Buntis Congress” of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 9 held recently at the DSWD conference room.

one mindanao - march 17, 2014

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