one mindanao - october 11, 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

Dahunog festival caps children’s month celebration in Dipolog

Frank P. GumaponWestern Mindanao

Today’s issue... Thursday, October 11, 2012 Vol. 2 No. 41

page 4

Aquino keynotes 4th International Outsourcing Summit in Makati City; vows support for Business Process Outsourcing industry 9

MS Monoy, Caraga RegionNANIE Up For Lease21Cooperative Dev’t. Agency cites DavNor coop sector23 Jeanevive Abangan, Southern Mindanao

17 N. Cotabato receives P43-M worth of medical supplies, equipment

NPA rebel killed in Surigao Norte encounter

Dani Doguiles, Central Mindanao

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NCIP celebrates Indigenous Peoples Month, 15th IPRA anniversary this October 27 Alma L. Tingcang , Western Mindanao

Creativity and tourism spin Hallyu globalization29 Noemi G. Bernardino-Edaga, Western Mindanao

4ID launches youth organization for peaceNorthern Mindanao31

Arturo M. Cruje, Caraga Region

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Comelec reminds voters of Oct 31 deadline for registrationJopat D. Nano, Northern Mindanao33ARMM, GSIS, DBM ink MOA to settle GSIS payables of teachers in the region ARMM36

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Thursday, October 11, 2012 4 ONE MINDANAO


This city’s “Dahunog” festival, which runs for eight years now, is primarily designed to develop the children’s talents in music using wind instruments and drums. For the past eight years, the city government through its city tourism office in collaboration with the city tourism council spearheaded the holding of the “Dahunog sa Dipolog” festival which falls on the first week of October each year. “Dahunog” is a Visayan term for rumbling or reverberating sounds. Year after year the Dahunog festival has succeeded in drawing foreign and domestic tourists who would watch the interschool parade band competitions with elementary and high school students as participants. Clad in colorful costumes, the band members would regale the

spectators with their breathtaking performances in music and dances that go in harmony.

Tribute to children

Assistant City Information Officer Leonor Ruiz-Rabino told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that the Dahunog festival is one of the major entertainments for the

Innate talents and skills among children may vary

but these should be nurtured and developed to bring out the best in them.

by Frank P. Gumapon

Thursday, October 11, 2012 5ONE MINDANAO


children’s month celebration in the city. Aside from the parade band competitions, Rabino said, there’s also a search for Miss Teen Tourism to be participated in by high school students. Children below six years old will also vie for “Little King and Little Queen” titles. “By and large, Dahunog festival is an avenue for children and youth to show off their talents not only in music but also in arts,” Rabino stressed.

Child-friendly city

The city government’s efforts in

looking after the welfare of children have paid off as it emerged as the regional winner in the search for child-friendly city sponsored by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). A children’s center has been set up to provide shelter to abandoned and street children. The city leadership also sees to it that children aged zero to five years old are given immunization against preventable diseases like polio, TB, hepatitis and others. The city council, on the other hand, has also passed laws supportive of the welfare of children like the anti-smoking ordinance that prohibits smoking in public buildings, places and parks.

Thursday, October 11, 2012 6 ONE MINDANAO

8th Dahunog festival Six high schools and seven elementary schools have participated in the recently concluded parade band competitions with the following winners in the secondary level: Zamboanga del Norte National High School band - champion, Saint Mary’s Academy – second place, and San Istanislao Kostka of Manukan

town- third place. For the e lementary level, the w i n n e r s were Dipolog City pilot

Demonstration School – champion, Estaka Central School – second and Manukan East Central School – third.

Miss Teen Tourism 2012

The search for Miss Teen Tourism 2012 was joined by gorgeous teenagers from 11 public and private high schools. The winners were Quennie Joy Ebal of Saint Mary’s Academy - Miss Teen Tourism 2012, Alessa Turner of Global Springs of Learning Academy – Miss Eco-Tourism, Justine Rey de la Cruz of Zamboanga del Norte National high School – Miss Travel Adventure, and Fatima Flores of Dipolog Community School – 1st Princess.

Thursday, October 11, 2012 7

ACROSS THE NATIONPresident Aquino cites the contribution of the country’s cooperatives in improving the lives of the poor and marginalized sector

President Benigno S. Aquino III underscored the

contribution of the country’s cooperatives in improving the lives of the people, especially the poor and marginalized.

“The cooperative model has, time and again, proved significant in lifting our people from poverty, providing them with opportunities for personal and financial growth,” the Chief Executive said in his message to the Philippine Cooperative Center (PCC) on the occasion of its 11th National Cooperative Summit on Wednesday.

The PCC, in partnership with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), is holding the 11th National

Cooperative Summit starting on Wednesday at the Atrium of LimKetKai Center in Cagayan de Oro City. The three-day event will end on October 12.

The theme for this year’s gathering of cooperative leaders is “Cooperative Enterprises Build a Better Philippines”

“As the biggest assembly of cooperative leaders nationwide, this summit holds strategic importance in charting new directions

8 Thursday, October 11, 2012

to advance the principles of cooperativism,” President Aquino said.

He averred that this year’s gathering addresses the need for integrated community enterprises that support members’ livelihood and encourage productivity and entrepreneurship.

“May you continue to change lives

and fulfill your role as a catalyst for development. May you remain guided by the values of passion, integrity, and excellence in your endeavors as, together, we realize our collective goal of a better future for all Filipinos,” he said. PND (js)


Aquino keynotes 4th International Outsourcing Summit in Makati City; vows support for Business Process Outsourcing industry

President Benigno S. Aquino III keynoted Tuesday night the closing

session of the 4th International Outsourcing Summit organized by the Business Process Outsourcing Association of the Philippines in Makati City and vowed to support the industry for its continuous growth.

Industry leaders raised some concerns being faced by the outsourcing companies in the Philippines. But the President said his administration has been addressing most of those concerns.

“Let me assure you that a lot of those concerns are presently being addressed and we will give you a detailed answer to all the concerns that were raised,” the President said in

his message during the event.The President said the Technical

Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), under the leadership of Director General Joel Villanueva, has been assisting the industry for it to grow further.

He noted that the government is investing in its people to arm them with the skills they need not only to gain

10 Thursday, October 11, 2012

entry into the industry, but also to flourish and rise up the ranks as long-term professionals.

According to the President, one of the government programs is the Industry-based Training for Work Scholarship Program, in which the administration allotted P500 million last year. The government made significant progress in this undertaking and as of August this year, more than 26,500 Filipinos have graduated from the program, and 11,600 of them have already been hired.

“We are also looking at other avenues through which we can train those who aspire to enter your industry. Through the work of the Commission on Higher Education, we have been able to implement BPAP’s proposal of making available a 21-unit BPO specialization track to I.T. students,” the President said.

Schools like the University of Makati and Asia Pacific College are offering the track, and the government

is hopeful that the program will be successful in preparing students to join BPO companies.

Aside from training the available workforce, the President emphasized that his administration


is also committed in building the necessary infrastructure to optimize BPO operations. He added that reforms in the telecommunication industry also created a competitive environment for major industry players.

“As you can see, your assistance in ensuring that no Filipino is left behind on the straight path to equitable progress, is being reciprocated with assistance from the government. Perhaps as your industry grows, the Filipino’s role in them can diversify into professions that are higher up the value chain, and in our country,” the Chief Executive said.

The President also expressed his gratitude to the BPO companies operating in the Philippines for trusting the Filipino workers.

As a result, the industry posted $11 billion in revenue in 2011, with 113,000 new jobs created, the President said adding that this also made the Philippines the number one contact center industry in the world,

having surpassed India in 2010.In 2016, President Aquino said

he expects the BPO industry to make $25 billion, while employing around 1.3-million Filipinos.

BPAP is the umbrella association for the IT-BPO and GIC (Global In-House Center) industry in the Philippines, serving as the one-stop information and advocacy gateway for the BPO industry.

The association plays a pivotal role in sustaining rapid growth of the IT-BPO and GIC industry by working to ensure an enduring supply of high quality labor, supporting service innovation, and providing country visibility.

Among the participants who joined the 4th International Outsourcing Summit include representatives from Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, China, Colombia, Denmark, Greece, India, Japan, Malaysia, The Netherlands, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, United Kingdom, United States, and Vietnam. PND (as)

Thursday, October 11, 2012ONE MINDANAO 12

Aquino hopes that business process outsourcing companies would invest in Mindanao to spur development

President Benigno S. Aquino III said he hopes that business process outsourcing companies would soon

invest in Mindanao especially with the recently concluded framework agreement between government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

In his speech during the 4th International Outsourcing Summit in Makati City on Tuesday, the President acknowledged the contribution of the sector as an all-important driver of inclusive growth particularly by extending prosperity outside the traditional hubs of commerce and industry.

Most BPO companies are investing in the so-called Next Wave Cities, which include Santa Rosa in Laguna, Lipa in Batangas, and Dumaguete.

“We are also hard at work to make even more places in the Philippines ripe for investment. With the recently concluded framework agreement with the MILF, we are very hopeful

Thursday, October 11, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 13

that there will come a day, in the not too distant future, when we see a number of IT-BPO companies operating in the Bangsamoro,” the President said.

The President keynoted Tuesday afternoon the concluding session of the global outsourcing summit organized by the Business Process Outsourcing Association of the Philippines (BPAP).

“The jobs you create in these areas, obviously, take on a multiplier effect that goes a long way in developing the countryside.”

The President announced last week that the Philippine government and the MILF was nearing the forging of a Framework Agreement on peace aimed at ending the conflict that has spanned two generations and has taken the lives of more than 100,000 Filipinos.

The Framework Agreement laid down the ground work for achieving the “final and enduring peace in Mindanao” by enjoining all stakeholders to support the implementation of the needed “structural reforms, the chief executive said.

Under the Framework Agreement, a new “political entity” will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and will be named “Bangsamoro.”

Government negotiators and representatives of the MILF who had been holding peace talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, will soon

come out with the draft guidelines on the Framework Agreement soon, the President said.

The BPO industry posted $11 billion in revenue in 2011, and created 113,000 new jobs, according to the President. This robust growth of the industry also made the Philippines the number one contact center industry in the world, having surpassed India in 2010.

In 2016, President Aquino said he expects the BPO industry to make $25 billion, while employing around 1.3 million Filipinos.

The BPAP, which is the umbrella association for the IT-BPO and GIC (Global In-House Center) industry in the Philippines, plays a pivotal role in sustaining the rapid growth of the IT-BPO industry by ensuring steady supply of man power, supporting service innovation, and providing country visibility. PND (as)


200 farmers to receive P31.4 million as compensation for NIA irrigation project By Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- After 10 years of waiting, owners of farms submerged during the construction of the Malitubog-Maridagao Irri-gation Project Phase 1 will receive payments for damages.


200 farmers to receive P31.4 million as compensation for NIA irrigation project

A statement from the office of North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza said the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) through its provincial office has released a check of P31.4 million as full payment and settlement for 214 farmers.

The farmers belong to the Nagkakaisang Samahan ng mga Magsasaka ng MalMar (Nagkasamma), a group formed to address the concern on damaged crops and submerged areas caused by the Malitubog-Maridagao

Irrigation Project Phase I.

N a g k a s a m m a President Naser M. Ali received the check for the organization.

Based on records, the farmer group filed a complaint in September 2003 at the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples Regional Hearing Office, Region XI following the submersion of more than 730 hectares of agricultural lands in barangays Ugalingan, Gen. Luna, and Nasapian in Carmen town.

Governor Taliño-

Mendoza, who chairs the Implementation, Monitoring, Advisory Group for MalMar, assisted the group by following up the case with the NIA Central Office to ensure that the affected farmers are compensated.

MMIP Phase I is a foreign-assisted project financed by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation to irrigate more than 10,000 hectares of land in Carmen and Pikit in Cotabato, and Pagalungan and Motawal in Maguindanao.

93 couples say “I do” on Koronadal City’s charter day By Aida Agad

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- “I do’s” echoed at the city’s Rizal Park as 93 couples exchanged vows at the mass wedding officiated by Koronadal City Mayor Peter B. Miguel.

This mass wedding is part of the free services of the Programang Bayanihan para sa mga Mamamayan (PBM) offered by the city government to residents as it celebrates the 12th

Charter Anniversary on October 8, 2012.

It was the first time in the city’s history that a mass of 93 couples were given blessings in a public ceremony, the city information office said.

The couples came from the 27 barangays of Koronadal City.

Miguel advised the newly-wed couples to remain steadfast in their married life and to uphold the eight core values which the city government


promotes as a strong foundation for progress and development.

He also urged residents to be guided by the values of love of God, love

of country, respect, integrity, discipline, c o m m i t m e n t , stewardship, and competitiveness.

Koronadal City is a third class C o m p e t i t i v e

City declared as component city on October 8, 2000. It has a total land area of 27,700 hectares and populated by 163,908 in 25, 557 households (2006 CHO Survey).


N. Cotabato receives P43-M worth of medical supplies, equipmentBy Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato-- The provincial government of North Cotabato has received P43 million worth of medical equipment and sup-plies from the Michigan-based relief organization World Medical Relief Inc. (WMR).

WMR’s second batch of donations in support of the health programs of Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza and the provincial government arrived this week, following an earlier shipment on September 19.

Speaking for the WMR, Ambassador Dr. David Lee Zarate expressed his appreciation for Gov. Mendoza’s resourcefulness and commitment to deliver quality health service to her constituencies.

Zarate said ,10 dialysis units have now been donated to the province of Cotabato but more are coming as other shipments are due to arrive in November and early next year.

Earlier report from the Office of the governor,

the dialysis units will be distributed to the following hospitals: Cotabato Provincial Hospital in Amas, Kidapawan City; M’lang District Hospital; Fr. Tulio Favali District Hospital in Tulunan; Arakan Valley District Hospital in Arakan; New Cebu District Hospital in Pres. Roxas, Dr. Amado Diaz Hospital in Midsayap; Aleosan District Hospital and Alamada District Hospital.

In May this year, the local chief executive, together with her husband, TUCP Party List Representative Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza and several government doctors visited the WMR headquarter in Detroit, Michigan, USA to formally

seal the partnership for the delivery of health services in the province.

During the ceremonial turn-over and blessing of the medical equipment attended by the chiefs of hospital and key officials of the province, Gov. Taliño-Mendoza said, she wants the hospitals to be properly equipped to serve them when the need arises.

WMR is a private non-profit organization which operates exclusively for charitable purposes including the distribution of medical-dental equipment and supplies to third world and developing countries.

The provincial government spends P1.5M for every shipment as its counterpart.


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Infra programs endorsed during RDC full council meeting in AgSurby David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR --- Six region-wide infrastructure programs presented during the Regional Development Council (RDC) meeting were endorsed for approval and implementation.


Among the infrastructure programs presented by the Chairman on Infrastructure Development Committee, Agusan del Sur Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza, were the request that the Department of Agriculture (DA) will fast-track the release of funding for the rehabilitation of the Mam-on farm-to-market road in the municipality of Cagwait, Surigao del Sur; the request for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for proper endorsement of surveyors to the concerned local government units (LGUs) and that a representative of each LGU be included in the survey team; the five priority tourism-related

infrastructure projects of Surigao del Sur for funding under the 2013 General Appropriation Act. Another programs that were endorsed were the enjoining of the Caraga LGUs to institutionalize a system of registering/ recording of tourists thereby improving their qualification for the tourism road infrastructure project prioritization criteria; requesting Gawad

Kalinga to support the relocation of the 32 affected families in the Dona Helene area; proposed Siargao Island Agri-Eco Tourism Nautical Highway. The one that was deferred for endorsement and subject to further discussion by the committee was to request the DOT to declare the entire Caraga Region as a tourist destination area, excluding the declared mineral reservation and watershed areas. A program which was deferred for endorsement shall be discussed thoroughly in order that declared mineral reservation and watershed areas shall be properly identified for strict implementation.


NPA rebel killed in Surigao Norte encounterby Arturo M. Cruje

SURIGAO DEL NORTE -- One communist rebel was killed in a clash with troops of the 30th Infantry Battalion Monday morning at Gigaquit town, this province, an army official said.

Lt. Col. Vincent B. Iringan, Commanding Officer of the 30IB said the encounter occurred around 8:56 a.m. at Sitio Boy Banwa, Barangay Camam-onan when the troops of Alpha Company led by 2LT Rogelio De La Rosa, Jr., stationed at Brgy. Mahanub in Gigaquit, while patrolling and visiting said sitio were fired upon by more or less 20 New People’s Army (NPAs) believed to be members of SPP 16A, Guerilla Front 16, North Eastern Mindanao regional committee. A 15-minute fire fight ensued. Iringan said no one was killed nor wounded on the government side. On the other hand, one NPA member was killed and one bandoleer with four magazines loaded with 160 rounds of ammunition for AK47 Assault

Rifle was recovered after the clash. “Our troops were on their way to Sitio Boy Banwa purposely to conduct peace and development works that would help the populace of the said sitio. The attack made by the NPA is a clear manifestation of their resistance to the development efforts in the province of Surigao del Norte and their disregard for the welfare of the people,” Iringan said. He called on other NPAs to surrender and return to the folds of the law. “Instead of the continuous fighting and conflicts it would be better if we will join hands, unite and help each other in achieving sustainable peace that is conducive to the development of our country,” Iringan said.


NANIE Up For Leaseby MS Monoy

Agusan del Norte --The Nasipit Agusan del Norte Industrial Estate (NANIE) is up for lease of P3.00 – P5.00 per square meter according to SB Ordinance No. 008 – 2012. Said ordinance was enacted to encourage more investors to locate their business in the area, improve its industrial activities and uplift the economic condition of the Nasipitnons. Determining the rate of rental fees will be considered by the following: 1. The terms and conditions of the contract, including the duration of the lease; 2. The impact of the project to the local economy and to the social well-being of the people in the community; 3. The physical condition of the area being leased, whether it

is raw, semi-developed, developed or fully developed; and 4. All other conditions that the municipality shall deemed worthy to consider. The monthly rental fees will increase every 5 years and a fixed rate of P5.00 per square meter lease on temporary basis or for short duration only. Thru the efforts of Board Member Joseph E. Tomaneng, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved Sanggunian Resolution No. 208 - 2012 for the flexible rental rates of NANIE.


DAVAO CITY- The Department of Public Works and Highways in the Region is expecting a bigger infra-structure budget for 2013. DPWH Region XI Director Mariano Alquiza said that for 2013 there will be an allocation of P7.280 billion worth of projects spread out across the different engineering districts in the region. About P4.2

billion was allocated for the region in 2012. According to Alquiza the increase in the infrastructure budget is in line with President Benigno Aquino’s promise in his 2012 State of the Nation Address that by 2016 all national roads should have been paved. The regional

director guesting at the weekly Kapehan sa SM at Café Rhysus in SM City Davao last Monday (October 8) said the 2013 projects are geared towards paving national roads in the region. Compostela Valley District Engineering Office has an allocation of P1.22 billion, Davao Oriental 2nd DEO was allotted with P1.219 billion, Davao del Sur second

Bigger infra budget for 2013by Rudolph Alama


TAGUM CITY- The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) has noted the exemplary performance of the cooperative sector in Davao del Norte. Addressing the recently held Cooperative Month opening rites held in Sto. Tomas, CDA Regional Director Elma Oguis revealed that the sector delivered highest performance on membership, total assets and in net surplus. CDA XI data on cooperative performance showed that cooperative membership in Davao del Norte swelled at a rate of 68 percent increase in 2010, expanding membership to 159,444 from 94,698 in 2009. The same data showed that

Davao del Norte’s cooperative sector marked the highest total assets of P5.203 billion in 2010, posting more than 13 percent increase from P4.6 billion in 2009.

In 2010, Davao del Norte also hit the highest percent increase of 72 percent in net surplus at a value of P199.165 million. In 2009, CDA registered only P115.9 million net surplus of the cooperative sector in Davao del Norte. Davao del Norte ranked second to Davao City in terms of loan portfolio at the rate of 42.6 percent increase in 2010, lending out a total of P2.729 billion from only P1.9 billion in 2009. It still came next to Davao

DEO with P1.179 billion, Davao del Norte P1.1 billion. Alquiza said that Davao City will receive P1.6 billion in infrastructure funds these will be spent on paving national roads particularly in the City’s 3rd district which received the lion share of the infra funds with P742-million. He said that among the 2013 projects is the expansion of the R. Castillo and Quezon boulevard road improvements which was started in

2012. However much of the focus would be on paving 10.87 kilometers of unpaved national roads. According to Alquiza, they have received marching orders from DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson that by the end of December all 2013 projects will be bidded out. Meanwhile Alquiza said that the Ulas flyover project under the Presidential Bridge program will be started January of next year.

Cooperative Dev’t. Agency cites DavNor coop sector by Jeanevive Abangan


City in deposits generated hitting P897.854 million in 2010, posting 3 percent from 2009 deposits registered at P869.557 million. Though Davao del Norte ranked second next to Davao City in terms of capital share or members’ equity, it posted the highest increase at a rate of 37 percent hitting P1.097 billion from P798 million in 2009. Meanwhile, Oguis encouraged cooperative members in Davao del Norte to help the coop sector double the membership figure as this formed

part of the improvement agenda set by member cooperatives. “We can reach this if each will recruit at least one,” she said. She made the call to expand membership while discouraging the organization of new cooperatives, saying the Philippine Cooperative Code lays down “stringent requirements” for registration. So far only 357 cooperatives have been able to re-register based on requirements set the Cooperative Law.

Regional Gallery

Davao City’s Osmena Park beside the Sannguniang Panglungsod Building, site of the original settlement built by Christian pioneers during the mid 19th century


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Under-privileged residents receive medical attention, school supplies By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Hundreds of residents of Tumalutap Island, east of the city, received medical attention and school supplies last Sunday (Oct. 7) during a civic-action outreach program initiated by Task Force Zamboanga (TFZ), in collaboration with Department of Health IX, the City Local Government, national line agencies, non-government organizations (NGOs), and the Joint Special Operation Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P).


Task Force Zamboanga Chief Col. Buenaventura Pascual, in an activity report released to PIA, said the main objective of the activity is to uphold and promote humanitarian services in areas and residents classified as economically unstable in terms of income generation and capability to pay medical services. A total of two hundred forty six (246) individuals benefitted from the medical checkup and consultation, 70 of whom also availed of the free tooth extraction. The group also distributed 355 ball pens and pencils and 355 pieces of notebooks for the school children, 150 pairs of new slippers, 130 pieces of toys for the kids, and two (2) bundles of assorted used clothing. Col. Pascual also turned over two

(2) boxes of medicines to Barangay Chairperson Carsoma A. Abunawas for distribution to the residents. The activity is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) which seeks to forge partnership with the residents in maintaining peace and security and help spur development in their area. Task Force Zamboanga Chief Col. Buenaventura Pascual, in a previous interview with PIA, said part of IPSP’s strategies are community outreach missions, helping look for livelihood opportunities for those in depressed and conflict areas, and also implement a paradigm shift on the thinking of soldiers. “We are trying to inculcate in the minds of our soldiers that gone


are the days when we are only visible during war. We are here also as partners of the communities by delivering basic services and help them look for livelihood opportunities to help them alleviate their living condition. We want our soldiers to also be sensitive to the needs of the

communities”, Col. Pascual said. IPSP has four important aspects; governance, delivery of basic services, economic reconstruction and sustainable development, and security sector reform to ensure the protection of the state and the people.

NCIP celebrates Indigenous Peoples Month, 15th IPRA anniversary this October

PAGADIAN CITY - The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) commemorates this October, the 15th Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) anniversary with the theme, “IPRA ay Gabay sa Kaunlaran. Isaisip, Ipabatid at Isakatuparan.”

By Alma L. Tingcang


In a media forum, NCIP Regional Director Salong M. Sunggod expressed his gratitude to the media for being their close partners in its advocacy efforts to bring about an empowered indigenous cultural community, Sunggod said RA 8371 otherwise known as IPRA recognizes, protects and promotes the rights of indigenous cultural communities/indigenous peoples. Activities in consonance with the celebration include: Housing assistance program in cooperation with the National Housing Authority and LGU Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur; awarding of Educational Assistance Program to deserving IP students; coconut seeding distribution with the support of the Philippine Coconut Authority, IP community fora; and NCIP staff reorientation program, among others. Aside from this, Sunggod said “NCIP lends support to Schools of Living Tradition and other IP community schools.” The office also offers legal assistance to the IPs.

“Among the frontline services of NCIP is the ancestral land delineation and titling services to its clientele. We also provide social and cultural support services as well as livelihood and entrepreneur projects,” Sunggod explained. “There are other various services offered by the office,” he added. He further said because of the low educational capability of the IPs, they likewise sponsor capability and skills training to its clientele. “We are working not only towards the recognition of the rights of our indigenous peoples but also to improve the lives of our IPs, following the mandate of President Benigno C. Aquino III which is “Daang Matuwid.” “We are serious in our campaign for “Daang Matuwid” and we will not hesitate to file charges against those erring employees,” he opined. Sunggod also asked the media to be vigilant and to report whatever alleged irregularities committed by NCIP personnel for proper investigation and action of their office.


While KOCCA is focused in the promotion of the efficient growth and development of domestic creative content industries, MOFAT keeps its focus in achieving “Global Korea.’ KOCCA specializes in a variety of content such as broadcasting, games, animation, comics and character licensing to expand the reach of the Korean wave; MOFAT compliments KOCCA by advancing its diplomatic priorities. Another force that contributes to Hallyu globalization is the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO). This office is tasked to promote Korea as tourist destination since 1980. Combined all together, KOCCA, MOFAT,KTO and KF are the forces that makes Hallyu a global phonomenon. The recent ASEAN media delegation visit to the ASEAN-Korea Center had Globalization of Hallyu as its theme. Under this exchange program, Secretary General Ambassador Chung Hae-Moon exchanged views with ASEAN

Creativity and tourism spin Hallyu globalization By Noemi G. Bernardino-Edaga

PAGADIAN CITY - At the fore of Hallyu’s phenomenon are the combined efforts of Korea Creative Contents Agency (KOCCA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MOFAT), Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) and Korea Foundation (KF) among others.

delegation on the outlook of ASEAN-Korea relations and globalization of Hallyu or Korean wave. Needless to say, the outlook of ASEAN-Korea relations and globalization of Hallyu is achieved as evident in the patronage of Korean tele drama, artists, fashion, music, dance and comics by ASEAN member countries. For one, the Philippines picked Korea as the shoot location of “Kimmy Dora,” a Filipino comedy film written by Chris Martinez directed by Joyce Bernal and played by Eugene Domingo.


Camiguin bags national HEMS awardby Jorie C. Valcorza

MAMBAJAO, Camiguin - Camiguin province was named as the Hospital Emergency Management Staff (HEMS) national awardee for the 2011 evaluation.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) gave the recognition on Friday, October 5. Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) Chief Felicisimo M. Gomez said the Camiguin General Hospital (CGH) won the award for the province. HEMS is a sub-committee of the DRRMC which focuses on overseeing preparedness and response to health emergencies. Gomez said the response teams have successfully developed

tools to smoothen operations in emergency rescue and cutting ultimately the response time in going to the hospital. The CGH on the other hand have developed a manual in responding to emergencies and initiated trainings, necessary to ensure effective management approach to HEMS.


Camiguin bags national HEMS award

4ID launches youth organization for peaceCAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City - The Army’s 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division has facilitated the launching of a new organization composed of youth leaders from Regions 10 and 13 at the Division’s Grandstand last October 6 and 7.

The “Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through the Youth” (Pointy) was organized after conducting seven provincial-level youth leadership seminars to make youth more responsible, productive, and well-informed members of society. Highlights of this two-day launching ceremony were the peace motorcade, the release of peace lanterns, solidarity night, and the election of officers and board of directors, October 6. On October 7, the formal launching program was held, wherein

the elected officers and board of directors were presented in an oath to uphold the rights and interest of their organization. This was followed with the symbolic presentation of the organization as an officially registered organization by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the symbolic presentation of the organization as an affiliate organization of the National Youth Commission. There was also reading of congress statement by the president of the Pointyt, Grant M. Amoncio. Representatives from the media


sector, religious sector, National Movement of Young Legislators and the military likewise pledged to uphold the rights and advance the interests of the Filipino youth. Government line agencies such as Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Education – Alternative Learning System, Department of Social Welfare

and Development, Department of Labor and Employment, Commission on Human Rights, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine National Police, and National Commission on Indigenous People also pledged to support said youth organization. Pointy has 630 members,

representing all the youth in the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, Bukidnon, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur. Further, it has its respective chapter organizations on these provinces. “These youth leaders will be the future leaders of our country, let us prepare them for the challenges ahead. Helping them become the best is our critical contribution


Comelec reminds voters of Oct 31 deadline for registrationby Jopat D. Nano

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Misamis Occidental urged voter to have their registration validated for the new voting system to be used in the May 2012 elections.

This new system of validation is called the Automatic Fingerprint Identification System, which is attached to the Precinct Count Optical Scan Machine, Cirilo Nala Jr., provincial election supervisor (PES), said. All voters in the province should go to the Comelec offices in the different towns to have their voter’s registration validated before the October 31, 2012 deadline or cut-off, as there will be no more extension for such activity, Nala said. According to the Comelec website, “Old registered voters who have not yet had their biometrics information digitally captured may file for an application for validation, which would enable their photographs, fingerprints and signatures taken using the Voter Registration Machine (VRM). These biometrics information are needed for the printing and issuance of the Voter’s ID card.”

Registration of voters have been suspended from October 1 to 5 to give way to the filing of the certificates of candidacies (CoCs) of those running in the May 13, 2013 national and local elections but has since resumed. Thus, Nala said all legitimate voters who have not yet validated, who have not yet registered and those who want to transfer their registrations should do it before the October 31 deadline. The Biometric System of registration is a very important component of the PCOS, which will be used in next year’s full computerization of the 2013 elections to avoid flying voters, which hounded the previous elections, he said. He added that Comelec offices will be open during the remaining Saturdays of the month for those who cannot have their voter’s registration validated during weekdays.

to the future of our country. Let us impart to them the best practices of leadership to inspire them as they journey as leaders of this organization,” Brigadier General Romeo L. Gapuz, acting commander, 4ID said.

“To our youth, we entrust to you the future of our society, make us proud, and propel our inherited nation forward - peaceful and developed,” Gapuz added. (4CMO/4ID)


ARMM officials prepared to fully support new political entity, says HatamanBy Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY – Officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are squarely behind the efforts of the Aquino administration to forge a “framework peace agreement” with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) before the end of the year, ARMM Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman assured recently.


In a press release, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) disclosed that the OIC ARMM Governor spoke before an OPAPP-organized general assembly in Pasig City and assured the assembly that ARMM officials are prepared to fully support the establishment of the proposed new autonomous political entity (NPE) that was being envisioned in the peace negotiations with the MILF. Hataman said the series of reforms that he was pursuing in the ARMM were a “part of promoting the peace process in preparing the ARMM for the eventual signing of the peace agreement (between the government and the MILF).” “Kami po transitional lang ang presence namin (Our presence is only transitional),” Hataman said. It can be recalled that President Benigno Aquino III signed into law Republic Act 10153 synchronizing the ARMM elections to the national

polls in May 2013 and authorizing the president to appoint officers-in-charge in the region, thereby providing opportunities for the government to implement drastic reforms. With the synchronized elections, candidates for the ARMM elections are also expected to file their certificates of candidacy next week, Hataman said. Saying that he was optimistic about the success of the peace talks, Hataman pointed out that implementing the needed political and economic reforms in the region was imperative to ensure good governance once the new NPE takes over the existing ARMM structure. In his speech, Hataman commended the OPAPP and the members of the government panel of negotiators for holding a series of consultative meetings with ARMM local officials and for allowing the various sectors in the region to take


ARMM, GSIS, DBM ink MOA to settle GSIS payables of teachers in the regionBy Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – The Autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao, the Government Service Insurance System and the Department of Budget and Management recently signed a memorandum of agreement that crafted a straight deduction scheme from DBM to settle GSIS payables by ARMM. Samira A. Gutoc, chairperson of the committee on education of the Regional legislative Assembly (RLA)-ARMM disclosed that for the first time, the GSIS and the ARMM Government through the Office of the Regional Governor, DepEd-ARMM and the RLA have taken major steps in addressing some P1.7 billion unpaid remittances to the GSIS. “It is a problem that is very

longstanding, and the recent MOA signing (resulting in the reopening of the Basilan and Marawi accounts) with ARMM OIC Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman offers ARMM personnel particularly our supposed “heroes”—the teachers (who mold the next generation) the glimmer of hope after being in the “dark tunnel” for decades,” Gutoc said. She added that the MOA

part in helping ensure the success of the peace process. In the same assembly, OPAPP Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles reiterated the assurance that the contents of the proposed “framework agreement” with the MILF would be presented to the Filipino people before any signing would be undertaken. “We are at an opportune time because we are close to a framework agreement with the MILF,” Deles said. The agreement, Deles explained, is not yet the final peace agreement, but “it will pave the way to several agreements to make sure that people are clear with what the

commitments are towards achieving just and lasting peace.” Deles further emphasized that any agreement reached this year is only the first and easier step. “Implementation is where the real hard and complicated work begins in achieving peace in Mindanao.” “That is why we call on all our people to come together and unite for peace. So that when we finally reach an agreement, every one of us will accompany the process, vigilant against spoilers and those who aim to render useless our gains in the peace process,” Deles said.


is indeed positive news especially for teachers and retirees who have long been suffering and have lost hope in government because of the absence of GSIS benefits. The agreement was also timely as President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared the period from September 5 to October 5 of every year as National Teachers’ Month. “This is a fitting gift for our teachers, our heroes,” Gutoc said. Despite the pending 1.7 billion payable of DepEd-ARMM, GSIS has taken the extra mile to reach out to the Bangsamoro teachers by crafting a straight deduction scheme from DBM to settle GSIS payables. The improved remittance scheme in the ARMM is the kind of problem-solving the ARMM government sees beneficial and practical to address the problem. Gutoc also claimed that the new GSIS remittance scheme received positive feedback from the ARMM areas during the rounds of the RLA’s public consultations on the Organic Act. “We have received positive feedback when we announced the GSIS MOA on automatic deduction

of liability from DBM.” “On behalf of the 15-member Committee on Education, Arts, Culture and Sports Development and the ARMM Government, we thank the GSIS and hope for similar MOAs are signed with other provinces of ARMM,” she said. Close to 1,600 teachers and employees from the Department of Education in Basilan (DepEd-Basilan) who have been suspended by the GSIS since 2004 due to the non-payment of their contributions, may now enjoy their full benefits after the signing of a memorandum of agreement between the Dep-Ed-Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and the pension fund last month. “The agreement takes us a step closer toward the final resolution of this long-standing concern of teachers in DepEd-Basilan. We thank ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman for his partnership with GSIS and finding mutual ways to help restore the active status of our members in DepEd-Basilan,” President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara said.

one mindanao - october 11, 2012

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