volume 2. | number 6 january-april 2019

THE GENERALSTHE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY

VOLUME 2. | NUMBER 6 JANUARY-APRIL 2019

THE GENERALSTHE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY

VOLUME 2. | NUMBER 6 JANUARY-APRIL 2019

Mayor rivera bags Outstanding

MindanaOnOn in gOvernance

& Leadership award

oplan pailaw: 23,000 gensan

hOusehOLds granted LegaL eLectricaL

cOnnectiOn

CoMeleCcOnducts

vOter’s educatiOn rOadshOw

GSCpo receives

swat gears frOM

MayOr rivera

Whale Sharks are not only an incredible tourism attraction. They are an indicator of a

healthy ocean and indispensable in maintaining the balance in the marine ecosystem.

Jane Gollon-RiveraChairperson, Gensan Tourism Council

Whale sharks are gentle giants identified by the unique spot

patterns on their bodies. They are listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, from vulnerable to endangered.

Recently, a total of 14 whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) were seen and documented in Sarangani Bay. The Task Force Butanding Gensan disclosed that the recent documentation of whale sharks in the said area made the Philippines as the second largest

City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera immediately responded to the call for conservation and he directed and designated members of the Butanding Habitat Conservation Technical Working Group (TWG) sometime in March of this year through Memorandum No. 03, series of 2019.

Environmental stakeholders were pushing for the declaration of the city’s coastal waters as a critical habitat of whale sharks. City Councilor Shandee Llido said that they are working on the passage of an ordinance that will properly protect the habitat of whale sharks in the area. She also said that the move was based on a recommendation from the Task Force Butanding-GenSan, which spearheaded efforts to protect at least 14 to 16 whale sharks that have been spotted within the Sarangani Bay.

The task force has tasked

editOr-in-chief: ROMBEL SARRIA CATOLICOassOciate editOr: JOSE APONESTO III

Managing editOrs: ERLINDA ABARA, KENNETH JAY TAMPACnews editOr: CHRISTOPHER GIL SULIT, OLLYRIE MENDOZA, ANGELICA CARGO, FRITZ SALANIO

phOtOJOurnaList: RUSSELL DELVO, JAN REY LIBUNAO, MARK LLOYD LU GARY JOHN CABINTA, NICO PONTINO

LayOut artist: GARRY DIAMANTE OLASIMANcOntributOrs: GANDHI KENJIYO, ROJESSA SACEDA

cOnsuLtants: ATTY. ARNEL A. ZAPATOS, JENNIFER ALEJANDROATTY DONNA ANN T. BALBOA, RILIMIN H. SANDOVAL

the generaLseDiTorial STaFF

known population of whale sharks in the world, according to the Wildbook for Whale Sharks, a global online library that provides a visual database of whale shark encounters around the world.

These whale sharks or “butanding” spotted surface feeding in the waters adjacent to Silway, General Santos City were officially tagged as P1597, P1598, P1599, P1601, P1603, P1604, P1606, P1607, P1608, P1609, P1614, P1615, P1616 and one in Kiamba, Sarangani (P1605). This is in addition to two whale sharks P-640 and P-641 that were

Llido, Sarangani Bay protected area superintendent Joy Ologuin and Sarangani-Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office technical services division head, Dr. Rosalinda Cortez, to lead the crafting of the proposed ordinance.

DENR XII Regional Executive Director Nilo B. Tamoria also met with some members of the Task Force Butanding Gensan, a composite team responsible for the protection and conservation of whale sharks at the Queen Tuna Park.

“This is an urgent concern because we need to ascertain that these whale sharks should be protected while they are still in our area. We should come up with measures for their protection because there is a possibility that they will be harmed if we will not act the soonest time,” Director Tamora said.

What can the Generals do to further the conservation and protection of not only

EvEry

Counts

documented in General Santos City by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Region XII and the City ENRO in the year 2014 making up a total of 16 whale sharks documented in Sarangani Bay.

Moreover, the Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute (LAMAVE) recently reported that the Philippines has a whale shark population of at least 1,600 which dislodged Australia as the country with the second largest known population of whale sharks in the world.

the butandings but as well as other marine life?

We should intensify our information drive in the community on the presence of whale sharks in the area and the prohibited acts as stipulated in Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act and other related laws in order to preserve such creatures and other marine life.

Let us help and volunteer to participate in the activities of “butanding” research team composed of environmental advocates and personnel from Sarangani’s Environmental Conservation and Protection Center, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region 12, the Protected Area Management Office of the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the General Santos City Tourism Council.

We need to support the Environmental Conservation and Protection Center (ECPC) that leads the research team together with DENR and the LGU Gensan to gather relevant data that would help in the conservation and protection of these whale sharks.

Let us inform immediately our authorities if there are new sightings of whale sharks and other endangered species for proper and prompt action.

We could further gather information that will greatly help the drafting of ordinances and the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the conservation and protection of endangered species to back up and localize our own initiatives to preserve the butandings and other marine life. (CPIO/CFS/RSC)

LGU Gensan’s Response to the Call of Time

The Official Publication of the Local Government Unit of General Santos City

2 THE GENERALSVOL. 1 NO. 5

City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera along with Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte, Cagayan De Oro City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno and Iligan City Mayor Celso S. Regencia received the Outstanding Mindanaonon award in Governance and Leadership Excellence during the awarding ceremonies held at Luxe Hotel, Cagayan De Oro City on March 7, 2019.

The Mindanao Governance and Leadership Excellence Awards by the Mindanao Daily and Veterans Bank is aimed at giving due recognition to government leaders and private sector achievers for bringing fame and honor to their communities.

Rivera is honored for his

Mayor rivera bags Outstanding MindanaOnOn in gOvernance & Leadership award

commendable public service, effective leadership, consistency in governance as city mayor, and as a paragon of political will in action.

As city mayor of Gensan, he significantly contributed in the growth and development of Gensan through his flagship programs and projects like CLEAN Gensan, AKLAT and AMPING which makes Gensan livable city for all Generals towards nation building.

Aside from his sterling performance in governance, he is noted for not receiving his salary from day one as city councilor and up to the present as city mayor. He is allocating his salary to the PTCA of all public schools in the city.

Under his helm, the City of General Santos received various national awards like 2017 Galing Pook Award, Top 14 Highly Urbanized City and No.9 as the Most Improved LGU among HUCs

in the 6th Regional Competitiveness Summit, 2018 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index Awards, and 2018 Seal of Good Education Governance. It also got the 3rd place in Best in eGov Business Empowerment Award 2018.

Mayor Rivera thanked the award giving body for the recognition bestowed on him.

“While I am glad and elated for the award, I am also reminded that as public official, I should discharge my duties and responsibilities zealously with or without reward or even off the camera,” he emphasized.

The award’s night ended merrily with some public officials, honorees and media personalities who gathered in one roof celebrating Mindanao’s pride in governance and leadership excellence. (CPIO/RSC)

Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera bagged this year’s prestigious Gawad Parangal presented by the Association of Local Social Welfare Development Officers of the Philippines (ALSWDOP) for his outstanding service in promoting and upholding social services in the city.

After a thorough screening and validation by the ALSWDOP, Rivera’s continued initiative and support to social welfare endeavors in the city earned him the Outstanding City Mayor of the Philippines distinction.

City Social Welfare and Development Officer Rebecca Magante emphasized that Rivera has always been giving priority to all social protection projects and thrusts of the General Santos City Social Welfare and Development Office.

“Of all the mayors that I served and partnered with in the city, Mayor Ronnel is quite different and I personally saw how he went beyond his mandate and he is even sacrificing a lot, even his personal resources just to help and serve the people of Gensan. The best talaga si Mayor Rivera, “ Magante said.

Morever, Magante mentioned that Mayor Rivera also cares for the caregivers (social workers) by fully implementing the Magna Carta for Social Workers that spells out the benefits and priviliges accorded to them.

Among his accomplishments and innovations are his flagship program C.L.E.A.N Gensan (Creating a Livable

Kabus nga Residente sa Gensan which gives monthly allowance and tuition fee subsidies to poor but deserving students.

Further, his brainchild the Auxiliaries and Medical Program for Individuals and Needy Generals (AMPING) ensures fast and efficient delivery of health and other social services to financially- challenged individuals who are less fortunate.

During his term, there is an increase as to the number and extent of accessibility to Early Childhood Care Development (ECCD)day care centers, the institutionalization of Purok Laban Krimen(PLK)-Pamilyang Ayaw sa Droga (PADER), Likay Droga and his interventions on the Children in Conflict with the Law(CICL) and recently the installation of the Bahay Pag-Asa.

With due consideration of inclusivity, fairness and equal protection, he expidited the establishment of the Office of Persons with Disability(OPWD).

Mayor Ronnel Rivera and Mayor Mauricio Damogan are this year’s outstanding local chief executives in the highly urbanized city category.

DSWD Secretary, Hon. Rolando Joselito D. Bautista handed over the awards to the awardees and the awarding ceremony was held during the 23rd National Social Welfare and Development Forum and General Assembly at Waterfront Hotel, Salinas Drive, Lahug, Cebu City. (CPIO/RSC)

gensan Mayor rivera

awarded gawad parangal 2019

Environment for All Generals Towards Nation Building), Alay sa Kabataang Generals Lahat ng Alaga at Talino(AKLAT)-Edukar or Edukasyon Alang sa mga


3THE GENERALSNEWS

Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera graces the inauguration and blessing of the new building of Police Station 1, with the PNP Chief PGen. Oscar David Albayalde on February 18, 2019.

The ceremonial cutting of ribbon and unveiling of commemorative plaque was headed by Albayalde. It was then followed by the turning over of key by the representative of Sen. Emmanuel D. Pacquiao, Mr. Michael Bren E. Manansala.

This new building was materialized through the efforts of Sen. Manny Pacquiao, the Local Government Unit of

South Cotabato Filipino -Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (SCFCCCI) recognized the efforts and support extended by Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera to all noble endeavors for the City of Gensan during the celebration of the 40th Anniversary and 41st -42 nd Induction Ceremonies on February 11, 2019 at Greenleaf Hotel, General Santos City.

As enunciated by the Chamber’s president, Mr. Cyril Ang, he acknowledged the mayor’s significant contribution to all the undertakings of the Chamber. “I personally thank Mayor Rivera for he is always there helping and giving his support to the activities and programs of this organization,” he said.

The occasion was attended by various Chinese entrepreneurs all

South Cotabato Filipino - ChineSe

Chamber oF CommerCe reCognizeS rivera

throughout the province of South Cotabato. Some of the guests even lauded the business -friendliness of the City comparing some trends in the nearby cities and municipalities especially on the imposition of tax and other revenues.

The mayor, likewise, during his inspirational message reciprocated the commendation by the Chamber and emphasized the big help that the SCFCCCI has contributed as a partner of the LGU Gensan in the City’s economic development and directions.

He said, “It is not easy when we only have the meager resources of the government. And it is through our partnership that our plans will become attainable.”

Towards the end of his speech, the mayor reiterated the role of the

business sector especially the Chinese Chamber as development partners.

It has been noted through the years how the Chamber and the government partnered together in effecting positive change in the community.

As can be recalled and evidently happening, the chamber and the LGU both envision to bring together this City to its greatest heights of economic development.

(CPIO/AC/RSC) Photo by : Mark Lloyd Lu

Mayor rivera graces PNP statioN 1 buildiNg iNauguratioNGensan, and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Albayalde, in his message, thanked Sen. Pacquiao for the generosity of pushing through this project. He also acknowledged the vital role and support in carrying out the mandate of the PNP in this city by the local chief executive , Hon. Ronnel C. Rivera.

He ended his message by encouraging the PNP personnel present to remain steadfast in their mission and to discharge their duties and responsibilities zealously and faithfully. “Remember our

government is trying its best to provide everything that we need, so in return we need to do our job and go beyond if possible, “ Albayalde said.

As can be recalled, the mayor was lauded several times by the GSCPO for his all-out support to the noble endeavors of the PNP in maintaining the peace and order of the city.

Rivera in an interview, thanked Sen. Manny Pacquiao for the big help that he has been giving to the city. “I am happy that Sen. Pacquiao is always there helping General Santos City in whatever capacity that he can be of help. Especially this newly erected building is a living testimony of the senator’s kindness,” the mayor told the interviewers.

Also present during the inauguration were PNP Regional Director Eliseo Tam Rasco, City Director Raul S. Supiter, PNP Regional Chaplain Col. Jaime C. Serina, III and DPWH District Engineer Rey R. Francisco.

The newly blessed building is expected to be operational immediately after the inauguration to best serve the Generals. (CPIO/RSC)Photo By: Mark Lu



The city government of Gensan, through the aid of the National Housing Authority (NHA), relocated thirty (30) affected families from the razed community in Brgy. South at a housing site in Upper London, Brgy. Bawing on Tuesday, January 15.

On December 28, 2018, Purok Islam of Brgy. Dadiangas South was consumed by fire which affected 161 families.

Affected residents had temporarily stayed at Ireneo Santiago National High School of Metro Dadiangas.

After almost three weeks, the National Housing Authority granted the mayor’s request for shelter.

These shelters were provided with essential amenities like electricity and water.

Hon. Ronnel C. Rivera gave his heartfelt gratitude to the National Housing Authority for the units. He also gave encouraging words to those families who lost their houses and other property to keep on going, that their lives must go on.

Mr. Rock Garay, the barangay captain of Brgy. Dadiangas South was

National Housing authority turns over houses to December fire victims

A successful launching of Malasakit Center was conducted at the Dr. Jorge P. Royeca City Hospital last February 04, 2019 with the presence of the local government officials headed by City Mayor Hon. Ronnel C. Rivera and Vice-Mayor Shirlyn Bañas, together with the honored guests and visitors, Mr. Christopher Lawrence “Kuya Bong” T. Go, TV Personality Mr. Philip Salvador, and Executive Sec. Michael Lloyd L. Dino.

Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop where those in need of medical assistance may avail of already existing government funding from partner agencies such as Philhealth, DSWD and PCSO. It aims to help facilitate and streamline government processes on medical assistance which is extended to those who need it the most.

“…I’m very interested in putting up kining atoa nga Malasakit Center, and of course we are very glad because dako gid nig tabang di lang sa Gensan, but to the whole region, ” City Mayor Rivera said in his welcome remarks.

Statistics show that a significant number of indigent and poor Filipinos continued to have no access to adequate health services. But the NO ACCESS is attributed not to the non-availability thereof but to its non-accessibility due to the actual distant locations and duplicitous requirements of the various concerned government offices. For these and in order to concretize the President’s directive to help the poorest of the poor, the Malasakit Center is conceptualized.

“This actually aims to help the poor, at the same time, money and effort for a more streamlined process. This is what Malasakit Center is all about. With the initiative of the former Special Assistant to the President(SAP), Mr. Bong Go, we already opened 21 Malasakit Centers all over the Philippines starting from Visayas... The General Santos City Malasakit Center is the 22nd Malasakit

genSan malaSakit Center iS now openCenter in the Philippines, ” Sec. Michael Lloyd L. Dino said as he presided the turn-over of financial assistance.

It was also stated that the project was spearheaded and championed by the former SAP, Hon. Christopher Lawrence “Kuya Bong” Go and the financial assistance was worth more or less 300 million pesos every month.

“…but the office of the President does not stop there. As of this time, the opening of more than 40 Malasakit Centers is now in the pipeline. Patunay na ganyan po kapursigido ang ating Presidente, at ang ating SAP para

sa pagpalawak ng proyekto para sa mamamayang Pilipino, ” Mr. Dino added.

The program also was given priority by Mr. Go during his inspirational speech and he gave some travel experience packages to Baguio to the ten patients (beneficiaries) who were present during the ceremony. The activity was ended by unveiling the logo of the Malasakit Center and the City Mayor and Vice Mayor, together with the Barangay Captains, Kagawads and City Councilors had a lunch meeting with Mr. Bong Go. (CPIO/CFS/RSC)

also present during the ceremony and was also thankful for the units that the families received.

For those who were not qualified to be given shelters, they will still receive financial assistance, foods and other benefits.

This is a very great opportunity for these families to be given a new hope and privilege to rebuild and restart their lives as they receive their new homes. (CPIO/OM/RSC)


5THE GENERALSNEWS

The Local Government Unit of Gensan has turned over at least 39 day care centers to the barangays of the city in a span of 6 years under the leadership of City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera.

The construction of these centers is under the Bottom’s Up Budget program of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) with the help and support of City Social Welfare and Development Office and some socio -civic organizations like RD Foundation.

City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera has made education one of the top priorities of his administration.

It is his dream and his direction that no child should ever be left behind in the educative process.

“This is the only thing that I can give that will last for a lifetime and can be a passport of the kids to climbing the ladder of success. At a young age, they can be educated at the very next door of

The Local Government Unit of General Santos City launched the GSC Central Materials Recovery Facility at the GSC Integrated Ecological Solid Waste Facility in Brgy. Sinawal on February 19, 2019 under the leadership of City Mayor Ronnel Rivera with the help of Ferdinand Pareja, Acting Department Head of Waste Management Office.

DENR ASec for Field Operation Western Mindanao Jim Sampulna, EMB Assistant Director Minda Osorio, FASPO Director Lourdes Wagan, DENR XII RED Nilo Tamoria, EMB XII Regional Director Alex Jimenez, UNIDO National Project Manager Haidee Piniero and Dr. Carmela Centeno graced the inauguration.

City Councilor Elizabeth Bagonoc, the Committe Chairperson on Climate Change Adaptation and Environment was also present during the launching along with Hon. Lourdes Casabuena.

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), Global Environment Facility (GEF) and other visitors were welcomed by a jovial presentation from the drum and lyre corps of the Holy Trinity College

Gensan.The City’s Central Material Recovery

Facility was implemented by the UNIDO and the DENR-EMB under the project “Demonstration of Best Available Techniques and Best Environmental Practices in Open Burning Activities in response to the Stockholm’s Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants”.

This is a five-country project in the Asian region including the countries Cambodia, Laos, Mongolia, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.

UNIDO is implementing this project among Southeast Asian countries and General Santos City was chosen as the project site of the Philippines.

This is the first large scale mechanized Material Recovery Facility in the entire country and was fully funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

The purpose of this project is for the country and even the world to avoid the health and environmental impact of dangerous chemicals.

The CMRF has a capacity of 5 tons per hour with the following components: waste conveyor and segregator, compartments for segregated recyclable waste, plastic shredder, bottle crusher, cement and plastic

mixer, cement bricks maker, biodegradable granulator, gantry mixer and bio vibrator/separator machine.

City Mayor Rivera warmly welcomed the guest and thanked everyone who worked behind the scene in order to achieve the CMRF.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to the GEF for funding this project and to UNIDO in collaboration with the DENR for working with the Local Government of General Santos City... Ito ang naging bunga ng ating pagsisikap, surely this will improve our environment and contribute to the help in the way of living of our constituents here in our beloved city,” the Mayor said. City Mayor Rivera and ASec Sampulna led the unveiling of the mark. In an interview, the city mayor reminded all the citizens of Gensan to be responsible of their own garbage.

“Ini-encourage ko ang lahat na maging responsable tayo sa mga basura natin dahil in the end sa atin pa rin ang balik nito,” Mayor uttered.

After the program, the visitors had a tour in the plant and witnessed how the wastes are segregated by section as Engr. Bernabe Archeta, designer of CMRF explained the function of each section.

(CPIO/ OM / RSC) Photo By: Jan Rey Libunao

gensan city gov’t turns over 39 day care centers

their houses. Dili na nila kinahanglan pa maglisod ug adto sa layo, “ Mayor Rivera said.

From 170 day care centers, there are now 209 and more are to be built.

First Lady Jane Rivera gave thanks to the teachers for their dedication to teach the children for the latter to have a better future.

“Salamat sa dedikasyon ng mga day care teachers para maturuan ang mga bata. Salamat sa gobyerno dahil sa programang ito nakakasiguro kayo na ang

puso ni Mayor para talaga sa inyong mga bata, para sa edukasyon,” Mrs. Rivera said.

Brgy. Chairman Jesus Diaz of Purok Filomena, Calumpang was grateful to the city government because finally they have a day care center in their purok.

“Nagpapasalamat ako dahil sa ilang buwan ng paghihintay natin narito na talaga ang day care center sa tulong ng mga lider ng barangay at lungsod. Maraming salamat,” Diaz said.

Other barangays were also very thankful for the day care centers as these provide the venue in honing the potentialities of the kids at early stage of life.

The teachers and parents were also delighted that everything was materialized through the support of the City Mayor. The main goal for this BUB Day Care Center is to build an efficient environment to nurture and develop the minds of the children.

The simple turn over ceremonies of the BUB day care centers was done in the respective barangays in the city were BUB day care centers are built. (CPIO/OM/RSC) Photo by: Jan Rey Libunao

general SantoS City openS materialS

reCovery FaCility



More than 23,000 families now enjoy legal electrical connections. Thanks to the local government unit of General Santos’ Oplan Pailaw program, according to estimates from the City Housing and Land Management Office (CHLMO).

The CHLMO made the statement during the distribution of certificates to beneficiaries of the Oplan Pailaw on March 22, 2019, at Purok 9, Upper Labay.

Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera led the opening of the first Gensan’s Busog Lusog Talino (BLT) kitchen at Datu Acad Dalid Elementary School(DADES), Buayan, General Santos City on March 22, 2019.

The GenSan’s BLT aimed to serve meals to 810 undernourished children from DADES and five other different schools nearby.

The Jollibee Group Foundation in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Gensan, Dep Ed and RD Foundation constructed the new building to host the BLT kitchen at the said school.

“It is an aid to the School-based Feeding Program (SBFP) of the Department of Education, managed and operated by some parent volunteers who were trained to prepare and cook standardized recipes,” Dr. Farnazo mentioned.

During the inauguration , City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera acknowledged the kind indulgence of the

Mayor rivera opens gensan’s 1st blt kitchen

of Purok 9, Upper Labay were given access to legal electrical connection under Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera’s Oplan Pailaw Program in coordination with the South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (SoCotECo II).

Under the Oplan Pailaw, the Department of Education Gensan (DepEd Gensan) has reported notable increases in the National Achievement Test, an evidence of effectivity and efficiency of education.

This means pupils can

now study their lessons at night because they now have electricity in their homes.

The Bureau of Fire Protection Gensan (BFP Gensan) has also reported reduced fire incidents in areas covered by Oplan Pailaw by as much as 91%.

It has also been noted that purok and sitios covered under the Oplan Pailaw experienced an increase in positive local economic gains because of electrification.(CPIO/ST)

OPLan PaILaW: 23,000 GenSan hOUSehOLdS GRanTed LeGaLeLeCTRICaL COnneCTIOn

Jollibee Group Foundation, “On behalf of the Local Government Unit, I thank you for the help and I just want to tell you that we will replicate it through a subsidy from the LGU, so expect more schools at least 2 schools to have same like this BLT soon”.

Ms. Grace Mercado, the Operations Director of Jollibbee Mindanao highlighted the company’s and the City Government’s commitment to support

DepEd School Feeding Program through this Central Kitchen and related needs.

She encouraged the parents, teachers, DepEd and Barangay officials to continue collaborating to help ensure that the children in Datu Acad Dalid Elementary School will be served well.

Executive Assistant, Mr.Philip Pabelic referred to the DADES BLT Central Kitchen as “a dream come


7THE GENERALSNEWS

The program was graced by Vice Mayor Shirlyn Bañas-Nograles and Indigenous People’s Mandatory Representative Lucio Cawayan along with local barangay and city officials.

A CHLMO official says that around 17,942 were granted legal electrical connections in 2017 in addition to the more than 8,000 applications in 2017 and more or less 4,000 for this year.

During the same program almost 40 residents

true” after two years since the benchmarking in Valenzuela where the BLT Central Kitchen of Jollibee Group Foundation was seen by the LGU team.

On the other hand, Dep Ed Regional Director and the concurrent SDS Allan Gabriel Farnazo said that, “The processes and discussions might have been challenging for the team who made this BLT a reality...I am grateful to have witnessed during my term the inauguration of this Central Kitchen.”

He added that he believed it is efficient model to help enhance the School-based Feeding Program implementation.

Various institutional partners which flocked at the event were Jollibee Group Foundation team, headed by Ms. Grace Mercado, Dep Ed Regional Director and other Dep Ed Officials, and Mr. Lu Bernandino , the school personnel, feeding program coordinators, parents, city and barangay officials. (CPIO/RSC)

As part of the commemoration of Gen. Paulino Santos’ 80th landing anniversary in our city, Parangal 2019 awarded the first batch of pioneer-settlers and descendants of the town who are still alive today.

The said activity was held at the Phela Grande Convention Center last February 26, 2019 with the presence of our City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera, granddaughter of Gen. Paulino Santos Ms. Marissa Santos - Munday Tay, the

The 13 th Bantayog-Wika for Blaan dialect that serves as a symbol of the rich tradition, culture and dialect of Blaan was unveiled here in Gensan today.

The Bantayog - Wika project of Sen. Loren Legarda in partnership with the Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino (KWF) aims to put up monuments of the native languages of the country through physical structures that will serve as treasure chest of knowledge, wisdom, values, practices, traditions, and history of the Filipinos.

City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera was very glad of this initiative and he hoped that the monument will be a symbol of our patronage for our culture and an inspiration to promote and empower our Blaan Brothers and Sisters.

The 13 Bantayog-Wika was built through the concerted efforts of the

and Koronadal City.The program was also graced by

the Gen. Paulino Santos’ granddaughter. Ms. Marissa Santos-Munda Tay who gave a message and followed by that of the City Mayor.

The history of the city was also presented via audio-visual presentation, as well as the interviews of the awardees before the said Parangal night.(CPIO/CFS/RSC) Photo by: Nico Pontino

tri-people of GenSan and the invited settlers with their descendants gathered to honor the pioneer-settlers.

Members of the Pioneers and Descendants of General Santos City were delighted and so thankful for the mayor’s concern and full support to all the noble endeavors of the organization.

A total of nine awardees, now in their 90s, received the statuette of General Paulino Santos during the awarding from the General Santos City

PaRanGaL 2019 LaUdS GenSan PIOneeR SeTTLeRS

13th Bantayog - Wika unveiledOffice of Sen. Loren Legarda, Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino (KWF) , Local Government Unit of General Santos City and the Mindanao State University. It was erected at the vicinity of Plaza Heneral Santos fronting Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Hon. Fulong Lucio D. Cawayan in his speech said on behalf of the entire indigineous people in the City that he felt elated because they were given importance by the KWF, LGU Gensan and by the Office of Sen. Legarda.

He further acknowledged the mayor’s full support to all the activities and programs of the IPs. He narrated that from his assumption of office since day one, the mayor was very accommodating to all his requests.

The unveiling of the 13th monument which contains Andres Bonifacio’s poem

Pag-Ibig sa Tinubuang Lupa was written in Baybayin and the masterpiece was translated in Bla’an dialect.

City Councilor Shandee Theresa Llido-Pestano was very optimistic that the marker can add as one of our tourist attractions in Magandang Gensan.

The simple ceremony was timely in celebration of the 30th Edition of Kalilangan and the 80th Founding Anniversary of General Santos City.

Other attendees who graced the occasion were Hon. Virgilio S. Almario, National Artist of KWF, Dr. Debbie M. Cruspero, Director of Sentro ng Wika at Kultura, City Vice Mayor Shirlyn Banas - Nograles, City Councilors Ramon Milleza, Salvador John Dendam, Rosalita Nunez and some key officials of the City. (CPIO/RSC)



City Mayor Ronnel Rivera, LCR Head, Isabelita Tablizo and Executive Assistant Bai Janena Tito led the turn over of early registrants of marriage and birth certificates.

Four certificates of live birth and six certificates of marriage were turned over to the recipients.

Mr. Tahir Kusien Abdulhamid, 68 years old, happily received their marriage certificate after 45 years.

The City Mayor gave thanks to those who were behind the Rehistro Project and aimed to impart this program to other LGU’s.

“Nagpapasalamat ako sa LCR at ICCAD for this partnership ng Rehistro Project. Tuloy-tuloy na ito at sana atin tong mainstitutionalized para mareplicate ng iba pang mga LGU lalung-lalo na dito sa Mindanao para makatulong sa mga

General Santos City Police Office received SWAT gears from Mayor Rivera on February 08, 2019 at City Mayor’s Conference Room.

City Administrator Arnel Zapatos led the turnover of the gears saying that it was last year that they initiated the buying of arms for the Special Weapons and Tactics Team and donated 17 tavor rifles as they also found out that they still needed gears.

12 sets of SWAT gears worth 1.5 million equipped with a kevlar helmet, vest, pads for elbow and knees, and earplugs were donated. Also included was an eyewear that costs P10,000.

City Director Police Sr. Supt. Raul Supiter was thankful and said that a speed boat was also donated to them to be used by the police officers.

According to Zapatos, the gears will be given to the inventory team of the

PNP and 10 colt rifles will follow after the election ban.

“We will be donating 10 colt rifles 556 16 inches. The intent of granting this equipment was initiated during the time of the previous city directors that came in before CD Supiter assumed the office. And the plan was to give five rifles per station.

We are starting with 10 so there will be two stations recipient of the two rifles. In the initial planning in the last two years, these will be given to the two outskirt police stations,” Zapatos said.

“If the PNP would like to continue purchases, then we will be giving the same to all police stations. Yun yung nasa programa but if there are other additions as discussed earlier, we can always change the priorities,” he added.

City Mayor Rivera also announced that 8 patrol cars are already in ISUZU office and are now ready for turnover.

Free On-Time regisTraTiOn fOR IPS and MUSLIMS OPenS

“Yung walong patrol cars niyo nasa ISUZU na, for turn over na lang yun at napirmahan ko na yung Notice of Award,” the mayor said.

PSSupt. Supiter said that those patrol cars will be used by the police officers to improve their service.

“Salamat Mayor. Yun nga ang pinagbibida ko sir tuwing inninterview ako kasi parating na yung patrol cars na ilalagay natin sa mga checkpoints natin para ang pag responde ng mga pulis ay umaarangkada,” Supiter told.

The turnover of SWAT gears took place after the City Peace and Order Council Meeting where they discussed about updates on Policy Compliance Monitoring System, Traffic Management (Speed Limitations Policy/Guidelines), Utilization of 2019 Funds and Situational Reports on Peace and Order. (CPIO/OM/RSC) Photo by : Mark Lloyd Lu

GSCPO receives SWAT gears from Mayor Rivera

City Government opened Rehistro Project:Free On Time Registration for IPs and Muslims at NCMF Hall on February 13, 2019.

Rehistro Project is under the office of our city mayor through Indigenous Cultural Communities Affairs Division in support and in partnership with the Local Civil Registrar Office to provide assistance to IP and Muslim people to register their birth, marriage and death certificates.

This is headed by CMO-ICCAD Division Head Jocelyn Lambac-Kanda and LCR Department Head Isabelita Tablizo.

City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera, City Councilors Shandee Llido-Pestaño and Rosalita Nuñez and Executive Assistant Jonathan Blando were present during the launching along with City Councilor Lucio Cawayan, the Committe Chairperson on Indigenous People.

nahihirapang magparehistro,” the mayor said.

The requirements for delayed registration of marriage are certification from the solemnizing officer including the details and reason of being unregistered, affidavit from Public Attorney’s Office, ID/Cedula and birth certificates with the birth certificates of their children.

For delayed registration of birth certificate, the requirements are verification, affidavit, Voter’s ID, certificate from the Chieftain or Ustadz, Immunization or Form 137, ID/CEDULA or any available document.

For delayed registration of death certificate of their loved ones, the following are needed: Affidavit, Letter/Certification from Ustadz, and barangay certification specifying the cause of death. (CPIO/OM/RSC)


9THE GENERALSNEWS

Generals2019Appreciate

Colorful. Mirthful. Modern. This is what the Kalilangan Festival 2019 has become

as commended by most citizens of General Santos.

The festival had its closing ceremony last March 03, 2019 at the Oval Grand Stage attended by Generals, tourists and bloggers, and local government officials and employees.

The Kasadyagan sa Kalilangan Street Dancing Competition was the highlight event of the closing ceremony as the five grand finalists competed and amused the crowd with their unique concept performances and costumes.

Meguyaya Festival of Upi, Maguindanao hit the champion slot of the event and was followed by the LGU Datu Piang Cultural Dance & Ensemble as 1st Runner-up and Kiamba Central School Sped Center of Kiamba, Sarangani Province as the 2nd Runner-up.

People who witnessed the celebration also commended the said festival as they were asked, “What can you say about the Kalilangan Festival 2019?”

“Satisfied man kasi ano… sadya sya, tapos maraming mga bago… tapos makulay… mga 3 years ago wala nako kaattend ug ing-ani, Kalilangan, karon lang ko ulit naka-witness aning closing program so lingaw man sya… makalingaw usab sa tanan pati na sa mga visitors,” Henry James Inocente, an HTC intern who served as one of the force multipliers during the event said.

“Sa akoa… yung kahapon yung nagpazumba sa SM, tapos nandoon yung Kamikazee pagkagabi,” he further said when he was asked his favorite event in the whole Kalilangan Festival 2019 was.

Millennials and other generals also expressed different comments on the question “What can you say about the Kalilangan Festival 2019?”

“Lingaw kaayo sya te kay daghan kaayo kag matan-aw nga klase-klaseng divisions pag magsayaw sila… daghan kaayo kag makita nga mga kalingawan,” a senior high student said.

“Akong maingon lang sa Kalilangan kay so far, nindot kaayo sya karon, wala

FESTIVAL syay kanang mga nangyari gud na lain or anything na makahatag ug mga threat sa mga tao, so ana lang,” a GenSan citizen said.

The Festival Director Mr. Ralph Layco also extended his gratitude to all the staff, organizers and sponsors, especially to our City Mayor, Ronnel C. Rivera, who helped them stage the Kalilangan Festival a lot bigger, better and louder.

It has also been said that they would make the next Kalilangan Festival more fun and intense if they would be chosen again as organizers of the said event. (CPIO/CFS/RSC)

Photo by: Jan Rey Libunao



This year’s Parada ng Lahi

highlighted the unity of the Generals despite their

differences as it was held on February 27,2019 at Plaza Heneral

Santos.Parada ng Lahi is a yearly event

participated in by the government employees including the teachers of the Department of

Education, members of Philippine National Police, Joint Task Force and other sectors.

The program aims to recognize the efforts of our ancestors through the leadership of General

Paulino Santos. It is amazing that despite their differences, the Generals became one in order to achieve their dreams for the city.

The first part of the program was a parade in which the government workers showcased their cultural attires.

The second is the wreath laying led by the grand daughter of Gen. Paulino Santos represented by Ms. Marilou Munda at the monument of Gen. Paulino Santos.

City Mayor Ronnel Rivera, in his message, recalled how Gensan has progressed from glory to glory and acknowledged the efforts of the city’s

pioneers for the success of General Santos City nowadays.

“We have gone too far. The roads are paved. The economy is booming. Let this Parada ng

Lahi be a reminder that our ancestors have worked hard together and withstood

challenges amidst diversity to create new opportunity and new direction,”

the Mayor said. (CPIO/OM/RSC) Photo by Jan Rey Libunao

PARAdA nG LAhi 2019hiGhLiGhTS UniTy AMidST diveRSiTy


11THE GENERALSNEWS

GeneRAL SAnTOS And OTheR CiTieS iMPROve SkiLLS in LOCAL ReSOURCe MObiLizATiOn And inTeRnAL AUdiT

GeneRAL SAnTOS CiTy WATeR diSTRiCT And RURAL WATeR SAniTATiOn ASSOCiATiOnS enhAnCe WATeR SAfeTy PLAnninG

(Upper left) Ms. Geraldine De La Paz, City Budget Officer of Zamboanga City presented their re-entry plan for existing Local Economic Enterprises. (Upper right) Representatives from the eight CDI partner cities during the workshop. (Lower left) USAID/SURGE’s Public Financial Management Consultant Dr. Rufo Mendoza explained the importance of local resource mobilization.

(Left Photo) Engr. Michael G. Gabales, Division Manager, General Santos City Water

District discussed the possible entry of contaminants in the water supply system of the Rural Waterworks

and Sanitation Associations. (Right Photo) Key officers and management staff of

REFORMVILLE Waterworks and Sanitation Association with

facilitator from the General Santos City Water District

reviewing and updating their WSP.

On March 18-19, 2019, 23 local government representatives from General Santos City and other USAID Cities Development Initiatives (CDI) cities of Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Legazpi, Puerto Princesa, Tagbilaran, and Zamboanga participated in the Domestic Resource Mobilization Workshop conducted by USAID’s Strengthening Urban Resilience for Growth with Equity (SURGE) Project in Manila. Through the workshop, the participants gained deeper understanding on concepts and tools for effective local resource mobilization for Local Economic Enterprises (LEEs). LEEs are ventures

Five (5) Rural Water and Sanitation Associations (RWSAs) of General Santos City now have updated Water Safety Plans that will enable them to ensure delivery of safe drinking water. This was the result of the review and finalization workshop on March 27 to 29, 2019 facilitated by the USAID/SURGE Project, in collaboration with the General

NEWS BITS

Strengthening Urban Resilience for Growth with Equity (SURGE) Project

wholly or partially owned by the local government that generate revenue or income through the sale of goods or services to meet a perceived constituency demand. During the workshop, each city assessed their existing and proposed local enterprise ventures, identified the challenges of its establishment and operations, and drafted an operational plan for managing their own LEEs. Participants likewise acknowledged the significance of a well-prepared feasibility study and a detailed business plan for an effective LEE that will contribute to the quality service goals of the local government unit.

Santos City Water District (GSCWD), and the Philippine Association of Water Districts (PAWD). The Water Safety Plans will help the RWSAs manage quality standards of drinking water using risk assessment and risk management from the water source to the consumers. The five RWSAs are Mabuhay Waterworks and Sanitation Association, Mayo Nueve Waterworks and Sanitation Association, San Roque Rural Waterworks and Sanitation Association, Conel Waterworks and Sanitation Association, and Reformville Waterworks and Sanitation Association.

The GSWCD will assist in enhancing the capacity of the RWSAs in their operations particularly in actual pipe repairs, water meter design and installation, maintenance of standpipes, detection of pilferages, and pumps operation and maintenance. On the other hand, the RWSAs will support the water district on watershed and septage management.

This was followed by the Orientation Workshop on Internal Audit on March 20-21, 2019. During this workshop, the cities’ representatives gained a deeper understanding of the concepts, processes and tools in relation to internal audit functions. The value of internal audit was also emphasized in promoting effective, efficient, ethical and economical operations in the local government. At the end of the workshop, all cities committed to form the Association of Local Government Internal Auditors (ALGIA) and to conduct organizational meetings and the Internal Auditors Forum.



beTTeR LAnd infORMATiOn MAnAGeMenT WiTh diGiTAL CAdASTRAL dATAbASe

fARM TOURiSM STAkehOLdeRS RAMP UP MARkeTinG effORTS

On February 20-22, 2019, the USAID/SURGE Project, through the Land and Governance Innovations Consultants, Inc., conducted a training on Digital Cadastral Database in General Santos City. Twenty-three (23) local government staff from the offices of planning and development, assessor, information communication and technology, disaster risk and reduction management, and engineering of General Santos City and Cagayan de Oro City participated in the training.

The participants learned how to utilize the Geographic Information System (GIS) in building the digital cadastral database of their respective cities. The digital cadastral database is a database of land records containing textual, scanned documents, maps, and spatial data created and stored within a GIS.

It provides the information with all parcels and political boundaries covering a municipality, city, or any political unit. The digital cadastral database is useful for tax mapping, urban planning, and disaster response, among others. USAID/SURGE assists the city governments of General Santos and Cagayan in organizing and using land information as a means to achieve inclusive economic growth and resilient urban development.

General Santos City’s farm tourism stakeholders formulated projects and activities to promote farming sites as alternative tourist attractions during a market planning session on February 15, 2019, organized by the USAID/SURGE Project, SOCSKSARGEN (South Cotabato, Cotabato Province, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos) Farm Tourism Association, and the General Santos City government. Thirty (30) representatives from farm tourism sites, tour operators, hotels, and local government offices participated in the session. Among the project and activities that were proposed are 1) holding of the National Farm Tourism Summit in General Santos City this year; 2) marketing of existing farm tourism sites as part of local tour packages; 3)

NEWS BITS

Strengthening Urban Resilience for Growth with Equity (SURGE) Project

(Left photo) Dr. Randi Alampay, USAID/SURGE Project tourism expert, facilitated the market planning session. (Right ohoto) Thirty (30) stakeholders from various farm tourism sites and farm tourism-related businesses participated in the market planning session.

identification and accreditation of new and prospective farm destinations; and 4) showcasing farm tourism in major travel fairs and exhibits. The stakeholders also identified other support activities such as 1) training on basic tourism frontline services for farm tourism operators; 2) upgrading of basic facilities and amenities; 3) and advocating for more local government assistance through infrastructure

support and local incentives. Farm tourism and meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibits (MICE) are two priority sub-sectors for the development of the tourism industry in General Santos City. In 2018, USAID/SURGE formulated strategic action plans for the city’s farm tourism and MICE, which were turned over to the city government for incorporation into the City Tourism Master Plan.

Staff from the city governments of General Santos and Cagayan de Oro learned how to use Geographic Information System in building their Digital Cadastral Database.


13THE GENERALSNEWS

I found my love in the South.In the farthest region, the

twelfth, the brown mountains witnessed my grief. Matutum would smile at me, fogged up every dawn, when the trees are covered with dew. I dined and dated the Highlands, overseeing Sarangani. The constellations I fathomed from where I was twinkled the same — but they twinkled with hope. With love. Hope to find a love of my own.

I found my love in the South.Thirteen was my age of

reckoning. “You had to leave the speeding streets of Cebu,” said my mother. Peculiar as it seems, but I spent my youthful days in the North; where cars speed through sleepless cities where skyscrapers rise. Though the buildings thrived with life, I couldn’t put a finger why I felt empty. I lacked a life I didn’t know I

had to live. Perhaps I lacked a love I didn’t know I needed.

I found my love in the South.Ante Meridiems became my

favorite. It’s the dusty, cold gust caressing my skin every morning that made me forget about the big metropolis I called home.

I found my love in the South.In the farthest city of the region,

Plaza Heneral Santos witnessed how I danced with her. Her eyes are the color of brown fertile soil, like in the far rural parts of Region 12. The slopes of her body are the hills of Polomolok. She sang to me dearly, like using the melodies of the tribes.

I found my love in the South.And came a time when love

just was not enough to keep the promises — it was not enough to make the place easier to live in without missing home.

South:

I found my love in the South.I sought relief in the highest

zeniths of Kalonbarak, where Matutum comforted me in my disposition. The hills wiped my tears whenever I’d miss her presence. The warm summer nights of the twelfth region embraced me... and the traditional symphonies became my friend. My listeners.

I found my love in the South.And here the tunas taught me

to rejoice and swim in the currents of the southern seas. The growth of this region taught me that I could outgrow heartbreak — that I could outgrow my past. In a new place, there is uncharted misery. But in a place like Region 12, there is regained joy.

I found my first love in the South, and the South became my love.

Dyulliana Anushkah Toyogon



The underwater natural treasures presented some 9 hard and soft corals including “new discovery” made by Mr. Weber of more than 40 of marine species found only in Barangay Bula.

He launched the first Bula Coral Reef Exhibit during the 37th Araw ng Bula where he encouraged awareness and concern among the Generals. He also asked everyone to participate in the preservation, conservation and protection of the rich, bountiful coral reefs.

Underwater, the world teems

with marine life. Mr. Weber’s collection of corals, sea anemones, comet fish, clown fish and tiny wonders such as Christmas tree worm corals all come alive in this spectacular biodervisity. Isn’t it amazing? It is such a great way to explore the richest that is hidden in our seas.

Mr. Webner and his team still continue to explore as many species as they could find in Bula waters. The great biodersity we have in GenSan is truly one-of-a-kind.

Tourist attraction comes in several features. These are landmarks, extreme adventures, beauty of nature among others. The recent Bula Coral Reef Exhibit of Mr. Rudi Weber, a scuba enthusiast, revealed

the treasures in Barangay Bula have truly augmented the dwelling places of all fishes and other marine animals where they cohabit and breed, and as such continually make the marine environment a place of huge value.

Jennifer Alejandro


15THE GENERALSNEWS

During the turnover of patrol cars and assault rifles to the PNP, General Santos City Police Director PSSupt. Raul Supiter extended his gratitude to the City Mayor of Gensan, Hon. Ronnel C. Rivera, on March 18, 2019 at the City Hall Drive.

“There is a need to have a stronger working relationships among the LGU, the PNP, the Armed Forces, the Joint Task Force Gensan, the barangay officials and other stakeholders and of course the community in order to attain a safer community. On behalf of the GSCPO and the PNP, my heartfelt thanks to the Local Government of Gensan, particulary to the Hon. Mayor Ronnel Chua Rivera,” PSSupt. Supiter uttered.

A total of eight Isuzu patrol cars worth Php 1.3 million each and ten M4 assault rifles were turned over during the ceremony.

Previously, the Local Government Unit of Gensan donated 17 tavor rifles and gears to the PNP on February 08,

POLICe CITy dIReCTOR SUPITeR GIve ThankS TO CITy MayOR RIveRa

2019.The police city director said that

with these addition of patrol cars and rifles, the PNP can be more effective and motivated in performing their mandate.

The mayor said that he had instructed the City Administrator Atty. Arnel Zapatos to procure more patrol cars for the city police because peace and order is the priority concern of the city.

He also shared his plans for the city to improve its security.

“This week, we’re going to receive yung ating consultant’s communication na gagawin para sa ating police force. Ang gusto ko kasi sa communication nila yung dapat may mga GPS na so we will know kung saan naka station yung mga police,” Mayor Rivera said.

The city mayor encouraged everyone to support and work for peace.

“Peace and order ng city is

the main concern ng ating Local Government, of course like everybody said na hindi lang ito concern ng ating kapulisan, ng Joint Task Force Gensan, ng ating LGU, ng ating barangay officials but concern nating lahat ito, that is why kailangan tayong magtulungan para ma achieve natin yung tahimik at peaceful na siyudad, especially Gensan is a very highly urbanized city,” he added.

The turn over ceremony was witnessed by City Councilors Rosalita Nuñez, Shandee Pestaño, Vandyke Congson, Lourdes Casabuena, Jose Orlando Acharon and Dominador Lagare along with Edwin Año, son of DILG Secretary Eduardo Año and Ms. Beth Nograles of DILG-Gensan.

Furthermore, the city mayor also declared that the Local Government Unit of Gensan will donate 30 ambulances to the barangays for their effort in addressing the concerns of their constituents. (CPIO/OM/RSC) Photo by: Russell Delvo



counted while undervoting shall still be counted by the machine.

The ballot has a security feature which is called the timing marks. Atty. Mitchor reminded the voters to be careful in filling up the ballot.

“It is very important that you will shade only the circle corresponding the name of the candidate. Kasi if masulatan yung mga timing marks sa gilid, the whole ballot will be invalidated. Sa overvote, mainvalid lang ang particular position kung saan nag overvote not the whole ballot. Pero kapag nasulatan yung mga timing marks sa gilid, it will be invalidated,” Mitchor narrated.

One important feature of the Vote Counting Machine is the VVPAT or the Voter’s Verifiable Paper Audit Trail commonly known as the Voter’s Receipt. It shall be returned by the voter after viewing it. Bringing of Voter’s Receipt outside the precinct is prohibited and is

General Santos City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera reaffirmed his commitment to support the Madaris education in the city during the first general assembly of Asatidz (Madrasah teachers) held at the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) Social Hall in General Santos City on January 9, 2018.

Rivera pointed out the need for strong cooperation between the Asatidz and the city government to improve the implementation of Madaris education in the city. He expressed gratitude to the Asatidz for providing relevant education to the young Muslims and molding them to become better and responsible citizens of the country. Madaris Project is one of the component projects of the City Mayor’s Office- Indigenous Cultural Communities Affairs Division (CMO-ICCAD).

Under this project, around 3,622

Mayor rivera reaffirms support to Madaris education

COMeLeC COndUCTS vOTeR’S edUCaTIOn ROadShOW

The Commission on Elections conducted the Voter’s Education Roadshow as the info drive of the basics this Midterm election and the demonstration of the Vote Counting Machine on February 18, 2019 during the LGU Flag Raising Ceremony at Oval Court.

The demonstartion was led by Atty. April N. Mitchor, Election Officer of General Santos City.

City Mayor Ronnel Rivera and City Councilors Alberto Pacquiao, Rosalita Nuñez, Vandyke Congson and Shandee Llido-Pestaño witnessed the said Voter’s Education and Roadshow.

The positions to be voted this coming election are 12 Senators, 1 Partylist, 1 Representative for the House of Respresentatives, 1 City Mayor, 1 Vice Mayor and 12 City Councilors.

Overvoting will be considered invalid and all the votes shall not be

considered as an election offense as well as taking pictures of it and the ballot.

LGU Employees and City Councilors tried feeding their sample ballots into the machine.

Mitchor clarified that if by chance the ballot will be considered invalid and it is by the fault of the voter, he/she will not have the chance to have another ballot.

The VCM Roadshow is a region wide activity as part of COMELEC’s Voter’s Education Campaign. Mitchor also said that the COMELEC is serious in implementing the Fair Elections Act and they are monitoring those who violated their rules and regulations.

“The COMELEC are monitoring those who violate their rules at tayo rin dito sa local dapat sumunod tayo lalo na yung mga kandidato sa mga pinopost na mga campaign materials. Mayroon itong sanction, pwedeng makulong, magbayad ng fines at pwede ring maging ground for disqualification whether may magreklamo o wala. The COMELEC can file a case of election offense,” Atty. Mitchor said.

The national and local election day will be held on the second Monday of May- May 13, 2019. Voting will start from 6am until 6pm in the evening.

During the election day, there will be a priority lane for senior citizens, heavily pregnant women and PWDs.

The Certified Voter’s Lists are already posted in the COMELEC Office and will be posted to each of the barangays of the City to inform the voters of their respective precincts. (CPIO/OM/RSC) Photo by: Jan Rey Libunao

Madaris pupils and students learn Arabic literacy and Islamic values education during Saturdays and Sundays facilitated by 138 Asatidz in 38 Madaris centers located in 15 barangays of the city. Some Madaris centers are also facilitating adult literacy classes to educate Muslim parents who are interested to learn in writing and understanding Arabic.

During the assembly, the Asatidz reorganized the General Santos City Madaris Federation and identified their priority activities for this year among which was the conduct of Musabaqa or the citywide sports and literary competitions by April 2019.

The city mayor also acknowledged the big role of the Asatidz in maintaining peace and order in the city. As manifestation of his gratefulfulness,

he will provide a free uniform for all the Asatidz.

LGU Gensan has been supporting the Madaris for almost two decades now by providing monthly honorarium and capacity-building trainings to the Asatidz. “Pasalamat mi Kay Mayor Ronnel kay dako iyang pagtagad namu. First time sa history sa Madaris na nahatagan mi ug uniform na magamit namu sa amuang pagtudlo,” said Ustadz Mouchtar Alangan, the newly elected President of Madaris Federation.

Shari’a Counselor and CMO-ICAD Division Chief Jocelyn Lambac-Kanda,MPA, divulged the plans of the division for the year 2019 to provide both the Muslims and the Indigenous Peoples of the city with the programs and activities responsive to their needs.(CPIO/JLK/RSC)


17THE GENERALSNEWS

The city became in tune with the global observance of United Nation’s quest for water preservation and management as it celebrated World Water Day with a theme, “Hawak Kamay, Tubig Kaagapay” last March 20, 2019 at the Atrium of Veranza Mall.

World Water Day (WWD) is usually celebrated worldwide on March 22 of each year to remind the world of the importance of freshwater to mankind and to advocate sustainable management. Its celebration dates back to the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development where an international observance for water was recommended. The United Nations General Assembly responded by

“Barangayan” is a service-based program initiated by the Honorable City Mayor which genuinely aims to bring government and other social services closer to the people. Utilizing the CMO-Integrated Barangay Affairs as the auxiliary arm of the project, it has been seen as an effective tool of manifesting the heart of the government which is public

designating 22 March 1993 as the first World Water Day. It has been held annually since then.

Here in General Santos, with the initiative of the City Mayor’s Office - Integrated Barangay Affairs, the city had a purposeful celebration which focused on Rural Waterworks and Sanitary Associations (RWSA) members, advocate groups, and students as main participants.

The event was graced by the presence of City Councilor Vandyke Congson, USAID-SURGE Senior Evelyn V. Sagun, Mr. Edwin Camacho of USAID Project Wildlife, Vice Mayor Shirlyn Bañas-Nograles, Mr. Francisco Alolor of GenSan Water District, and other government officials and

some LGU employees. “With everything that’s

been happening, especially to the other locality na nagkakaroon ng water crisis, we are just so blessed here in GenSan to have enough water supply for our needs, “ said Ms. Sahara Jho Cabreros, IBA Division Chief

In line with the said celebration, IBA also wanted to intensify the campaign on water conservation here in GenSan.

Ms. Evelyn V. Sagun, USAID-SURGE Senior Specialist, also gave a talk on Water and Sanitation Efforts, shared her experiences when she was in Makati and highlighted how bad it is to have water crisis daily.

Moreover, a Slogan Making Contest highlighting

GenSan CeLeBRaTeS WORLd WaTeR day 2019

service- handing the services which the Generals truly deserve.

The program is a manifestation of the present administration’s commitment to put the people at the center of development. It is a whole year-round activity of joint visits in the 26 barangays of General Santos City. It is a weekly activity where all

service providers go together in the target barangay to provide their various services or products. These visits meant to provide easy access of people especially those living in far flung barangays to government and NGO/PS services. At the same time, the joint visits to the barangays with services and involvement of different agencies maximized the shared resources of both the public and private sector.

2019 marks the 6th year of making government services closer to the hearts of the Generals.

Here is this year’s Barangayan Schedule:

BaRanGayan: 6 yeaRS Of MakInG GOveRnMenT SeRvICeS

CLOSeR TO The PeOPLe

the theme “Hawak Kamay, Tubig Kaagapay” was also conducted. The schools which participated in the contest were the MSU, NDDU and HTC.

The recognition of the 6 Pilot RWSAs was also highlighted during the program. These are the Waterworks and Sanitation Associations coming from Brgy. Mabuhay, Brgy. Conel, Brgy. Fatima, Brgy. Labangal, Brgy. San Jose and Brgy. Calumpang, that underwent in RSWA Tariff Projection before.

Talk on Project Wildlife of USAID, Pledge of Commitment and Message of Support by Vice-Mayor Shirlyn Bañas were also emphasized during the said event. (CPIO /CFS/RSC) Photo by: Jan Rey Libunao



Six outstanding graduates from the Moro and Indigenous Peoples tribes were recognized in the first KISLAP (Kabataang ISlam at Lumad umAksyon tungo sa Pagbabago) Awards.

The award-giving undertaking was part of the Tri-People Youth Leadership Assembly, held at the Raadz Place in Lagao on April 12, 2019, initiated by the City

The Local Government of General Santos City hosted the 17th Citywide Madaris (plural for Madrasah or Islamic school) Musabaqah (intramural), an annual event that gathers Madaris learners of the city for academic and sports competitions. For the first time, the Moro House contest was included which aimed at fostering the Moro culture and tradition.

The event, participated by more than 1,500 competitors and spectators, was held at Mahad Shar-ie Al-Islamie at Purok 7 (Camasi) in Barangay Ligaya, this city, on April 5-7, 2019.

For the Madaris learners, Musabaqah is the most awaited yearly event where they can unleash their best to win both in a variety of academic and athletic individual or group competitions.

In his message, General Santos City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera commended the Asatidz (Madrasah teachers) and parents for their efforts in developing the Madaris education in the city. He said it is among the thrusts of the city government to support both formal and non-formal education of the young constituents of the city.

The local chief executive

Mayor’s Office-Indigenous Cultural Communities Affairs Division (CMO-ICCAD).

The three outstanding Muslim graduates were Al Mojib Macaludos Hassan (Junior High School), Saihanie Mimbantas (Senior High School) and Hashim Munir Ambia (College).

Ambia is a candidate for summa cum laude

also cited other initiatives of the city government on education including the AKLAT and EDUKAR projects that have been benefitting the youth sector.

The support of the city to Madaris education has been coursed through the City Mayor’s Office-Indigenous Cultural Communities Affairs Division (CMO-ICCAD).

Shari’a lawyer Jocelyn Lambac-Kanda, head of the CMO-ICCAD, said the division considered innovations in the conduct of Musabaqah, thus it included holding the Moro house competition which depicts how the shelters of the Moro people in the past look like and what can be found inside those.

“It is an opportunity to educate the young generation on the culture and tradition of the Muslim inhabitants is of this city,” she said.

Lambac-Kanda added, “It is even my first time to see antique items like weaponry, clothes, and brasswares used by our forefathers.”

“Participants of the Moro house competition exhibited mugs, ladle, spoon and forks made of coconut shell and bamboo and these utensils the Moro people

taking up Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communication Engineering at Mindanao State University-Gensan.

Adrian Pomarejos (junior high school), Christian James Escaros (senior high school) and Harold Tambingag (college) were the three outstanding Blaan graduates.

The awardees were

used then,” she added.The Musabaqah also included

parlor games like sack race, palosebo, shooting straw to bottle, eating bananas, egg catching and Sipa sa Manguis.

In his message, Director Gualil Kanda of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, commended the parents and LGU Gensan for their strong support in sustaining the Madaris education in the city.

Guest speaker Sultan Tungko Saikol, Assistant Regional Director of DENR 12, hailed the city government for its holistic approach in supporting the development of Madaris education in the city.

Except for Davao city and Sarangani province, he

chosen for their high scholastic achievements and active involvement in voluntary services both within and outside their schools.

Successful Muslim and IP professionals were invited to deliver their inspiring stories of success in their respective fields of endeavor.

Director Esmaida Andang of MSU-Gensan CETD and Prof. Jovar Pantao, Coordinator of MSU-Gensan’s Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao were the Muslim speakers while Jocelyn Robles-Carino, Superintendent of Sagittarius Mines and Eliazar Balunto, an instructor of Filipino-Canadian Community College Community College Foundation, were the Blaan speakers.

Jocelyn Lambac-Kanda, Division Chief of CMO-ICCAD, urged the assembly participants to persevere in pursuing their goals in life and be actors of change in their own communities.(CPIO/GK)

underscored that the support given by LGU Gensan to Madaris education cannot be found in other LGUs.

The city government provides monthly honoraria to 138 Madaris teachers from the 15 barangays of the city as they serve as facilitators of Madaris classes held every Saturday and Sunday in 40 Madrasah centers.

Part of the LGU intervention is the conduct of capacity-building training of Madaris teachers particularly on teaching strategies and classroom management.

Record shows enrollees for the school year 2018-2019 has reached 3,622. The closing and graduation ceremonies for this school year are to be held in the third and fourth weeks of April. (CPIO/GK)

MOST OUTSTandInG MORO, IP GRadUaTeS ReCOGnIzed In The fIRST kISLaP aWaRdS

lgu genSan hoStS 17th Citywide madariS muSabaqah Cum moro houSe Competition


19THE GENERALSNEWS

paHiBalogina diLi ang pagpanaKit, pagdaKOp Og pagpataY sa

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9147 WILDLIFE ACT

(WHALE SHARK)(RHINCODON TYPUS)

PAGLABAGviolation

PAGDAKOPPAGPATAYPAGPANAKIT

Php 1,000,000.00Php 1,000,000.00Php 1,000,000.00

Pagkakulong 12 yearsPagkakulong 12 yearsPagkakulong 12 years

MULTAfines

SILOTpenalties

Butanding

volume 2. | number 6 january-april 2019

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