Philippines - City and Province in the Philippines

Properties of Renato Corona

2012-01-26T08:50:00.003+08:00

Some of the properties acquired by Supreme Court (SC) Chief Justice Renato Corona and his wife, Maria Cristina Corona were divulged during the sixth day of the impeachment trial against the Chief Justice before the Senate Impeachment Court on Wednesday.

During her testimony, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Kim Jacinto-Henares authenticated a certified true copy of a certificate authorizing registration (CAR), showing the buyer as Cristina Corona dated Sept. 16, 2005 and valid until 2006 with acquisition cost of P9,159,940 for a property in Global City, Taguig City, particularly Bellagio Condominium property.

Also presented was a certified true copy of a CAR with name of the buyer spouses Renato Corona and Cristina Corona on a 303.3 square meters (sq. m.) property in Bellagio valued at P14,510,225.00 dated Dec. 17, 2009 valid until 2010.

It was also disclosed that a property in the name of the buyer Renato Corona and Cristina Corona with acquisition cost of P2,508,000 dated Dec. 8, 2003.

Likewise, a CAR showing the seller as Cristina Corona of a property consisting of a parcel of land measuring 1,200 sq.m. costing P18 million dated Oct. 22, 2010.

Henares also authenticated a CAR showing a 260-sq.m. property sold on March 12, 2010 with selling price P8 million.

She testified on the shares of stock in the Palms and Country Club, Inc. dated Dec. 5, 2011 with selling price of P700,000, whose buyers are spouses Renato Corona and Cristina Corona.

Salary and Assets of Renato Corona

2012-01-26T08:48:00.002+08:00

The prosecution team of the House of Representatives on Wednesday said it has proven that the salary of Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona was not enough to afford his acquired properties, citing the testimony of Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Kim Jacinto-Henares.

Marikina Rep. Romero Quimbo, one of the prosecution’s spokesmen, in a press briefing, claimed the chief justice accumulated P200 million worth of properties "that are not supported by his compensation income."

"Malinaw na umabot ang assets (sa halagang) hindi naman kaya suportahan ng kanyang sahod... Sa kabila ng pagpapababa ng value, malaki pa rin ang disparity sa salary niya at sa assets na accumulated niya," he said.

In today's impeachment trial, Henares testified that the chief justice earned up to P657,000 during his tenure at the Supreme Court.

She also said that Corona did not file income tax returns (ITRs) from 2002 to 2010, but stated there was nothing wrong with this as the chief justice was on the "alpha list" of the Supreme Court.

Henares said that the Alpha List was being submitted to the BIR at the end of every year. It enumerates all employees of an employer and how much tax was withheld from their income.

Based on the testimony of the BIR chief and the documents submitted to the Senate impeachment court, Quimbo said the House prosecution was able to establish that the chief justice has no other means of income besides his earnings at the SC, since his assets are declared through the alpha list and not through ITRs.

He noted that under Republic Act 1379, or the Forfeiture Law, assets that are larger than one’s income are "presumed to be ill-gotten."

Corona Impeachment Explained

2012-01-26T08:46:00.003+08:00

The defense team of embattled Supreme Court (SC) Chief Justice Renato Corona on Wednesday said that they take exceptions to the "smoke and mirrors" trick Movement 188 alluded to in its news release launching a "grassroots campaign to explain all eight charges to their constituencies."

Defense Spokesman Atty. Ramon Esguerra objected to the allusion saying that, the defense did not know a thing on "smoke and mirrors" tricks.

Esguerra was a former Undersecretary of the Department of Justice (DOJ).

He said that "we are in the profession of upholding the Constitution and defending the rights of CJ Corona. We are for what is right and doing it the right way."

The defense team was not into "sidetracking the proceedings from evidence uncovered in the trial's first week already establishing the impeached magistrate's guilt," he said.

Esguerra suggested for Movement 188 "to have their eyes on the ball" because no offer of evidence has been made hence no guilt has been established.

He asked Movement 188 that as signatories of the "verified" impeachment complaint, they should explain first to the Impeachment Court and later to their constituents what Article II covers.

"How many of the 188 have personal knowledge of the charges found in the complaint? If you agreed to the charges, do you also agree that the sequence is immaterial? Were the 188 complainants able to review the evidence purported in the verified impeachment complaint and peddled by the prosecution?," Esguerra asked.

Wealth and Assets of Renato Corona

2012-01-26T08:34:00.003+08:00

Presiding officer Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile on Wednesday explained the impeachment court ruling disallowing the prosecution from introducing evidence on the alleged ill-gotten wealth in the impeachment trial of Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona.

”Ill-gotten is a conclusion, so they have to present evidence. That’s why the factual matter that requires evidence is in paragraphs two and three,” Enrile said after the day 6 of the impeachment trial adjourned at 5:15 p.m.

During the trial, Enrile allowed the prosecution to introduce documents, through Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) commissioner Kim Henares, including certificate authorizing registration (CAR) of the properties purchased and sold by Corona and wife Cristina.

”We allowed paragraphs 2.2 and 2.3 because these are connected in the 2.4. So whether these unreported and excluded assets are ill-gotten wealth or legally-gotten wealth, they’ll have to be decided once the evidence of the assets is already evident,” Enrile said.

Under Article 2 of the impeachment complaints, the paragraph 2.2 refers to Corona’s failure to disclose to the public his statement of assets, liabilities and net worth while 2.3 questions the respondent’s non-inclusion in his SALN some of his properties.

On the other hand, the prosecutors accused under paragraph 2.4 the respondent of having accumulated ill-gotten wealth, acquired assets of high values and keeping bank accounts with huge deposits.

”On the assets not included, they (prosecutors) have to prove it and that’s what they are doing now. Now, if it is legally-gotten, or illegally-gotten, that’s the conclusion. They have to show basis that he has bank deposits and which bank and not subpoena the bank without evidence,” Enrile further explained.

Richard Gomez Was Unfaithful to Dawn Zulueta

2012-01-26T00:08:00.001+08:00

by Marinel Cruz, PDI

Dawn Zulueta revealed that she could have ended up with Richard Gomez if he had stayed faithful.

"We had potential," the actress said during a media gathering for "Walang Hanggan," the ABS-CBN series that reunites the former lovers on the small screen. "[Unfaithfulness] takes a toll on the girl in any relationship. She doesn't know where she stands. It's possible that the guy loves her but can't help himself. He probably doesn't have emotional attachments to the girls he dates on the side. Still, that's hard to accept. That was how I felt."

The couple were last seen in the 1991 hit drama, "Hihintayin Kita sa Langit," directed by Carlitos Siguion-Reyna.
Dawn, now married to Davao del Norte Rep. Anton Lagdameo Jr., said she was glad Richard settled down with Leyte Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez. "It takes a certain kind of a woman, like Lucy… she has so much confidence to allow her husband to work with an ex. He's so lucky," Dawn said.

Real Property Taxes in Pangasinan, Philippines

2012-01-25T20:38:00.001+08:00

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) has extended for another six months or up to June 30, 2012 the period of condonation of interests, penalties and surcharges on unpaid realty taxes within the province of Pangasinan.

This was provided for by an ordinance proposed by Board Member Von Mark Mendoza when the one-year condonation as per Ordinance No 152-2011 approved by the SP from May last year expired last December 2011.

Board Member Mendoza said the extension was on account of the numerous appeals from taxpayers who failed to avail off the condonation when this was first offered.

Mendoza said the extension was made in order to accommodate those who failed to meet the Dec. 31, 2011 deadline.

It was Gov. Amado T. Espino, Jr. who asked the SP to enact Ordinance No. 152-1011 condoning interests, penalties and surcharges on unpaid real property taxes, responding to the earlier call of taxpayers for certain relief.

That ordinance was intended to help mitigate the payment of real property taxes based on another ordinance prescribing a scheme of payment of real property tax based on staggered implementation.

Records showed that when the condonation was offered from May to December last year, some landowners were not able to pay within the period.

Corollary to this, Provincial Assessor Nestor Quiambao, said that although some municipalities have not yet remitted their collection on realty taxes, tax collection in Pangasinan has registered an increase of P269 million in 2011 as a result of the implementation of the condonation on unpaid realty taxes.

Filipina Sentenced to 52 Years in Prison for a Crime

2012-01-25T20:37:00.001+08:00

A former employee of a travel agency in Dumaguete City was sentenced to suffer a total of 52 years imprisonment after she was found guilty beyond reasonable doubt for three counts of qualified theft lodged before the Regional Trial Court Branch 34 in Negros Oriental.

RTC Branch 34 Judge Rosendo Bandal, Jr. identified the accused as Cherie Mae Catan-Hipe, who was accused of pocketing more than P100,000 in cash in three different transactions of Eight Wonders Travel and Tours Inc, owned by Elsie Lee of Super Lee Plaza.

Court records show that Hipe, with grave abuse of confidence, with intent of gain and without the consent of the owner, took P31,109.00, which was paid by one Davida Manugas, a client of Eight Wonders Travel and Tours Inc. to apply for her Philippie Airlines ticket for a one-way flight from Manila to San Francisco, California in the United States of America.

A certain Geates Hay Picken also paid P51,712.50 to apply for his Qatar Airways ticket for a round trip flight from Cebu to Doha to Manchester to Doha to Cebu and the third client, Tony Casling paid P23,850.00 to apply for his Cathay Pacific Airways for a one-way flight from Cebu to Hong Kong to Auckland, New Zealand, all to the damage and prejudice of the travel agency.

In a 14-page decision, Judge Bandal imposed a total of 52 years imprisonment for Hipe, ordered her to restitute to Eight Wonders Travel and Tours Inc. the total amount of money she pocketed and to pay P20,000 in exemplary damages and another P20,000 in moral damages.

Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichong for Governor in Negros Oriental

2012-01-25T20:30:00.001+08:00

Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichong of the 1st district of Negros Oriental has reiterated her intention to run for governor of Negros Oriental in the forthcoming local and national elections in 2013.

On a scale of 1 to 10, Rep. Limkaichong rated the probability of herself running for governor in 2013 at 8, which means that she is almost sure of challenging incumbent Governor Roel Degamo and former Finance Secretary Margarito Teves.

In an interview, Limkaichong confirmed that she is considering Mark Macias as her probable vice gubernatorial tandem.

The first district solon believes that Macias, son of the late Gov. Emilio Macias II, has the competence, integrity and sincerity, among other qualifications, in running the affairs of the Provincial Board.

Limkaichong said everything is running smoothly in her sorties all over the province together with Macias and that the people are very receptive of their tandem.

However, a lot of things can still happen from today up to the filing period for candidacies, adding that Macias can also run as Board Member.

In Dumaguete City, Limkaichong said she maintains good relationships with Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria, who is a member of the Nationalist People's Coalition but considered an ally of the Liberal Party to which she belongs.- PNA

Cast Away at Apo Island, Negros Oriental Philippines

2012-01-25T20:24:00.001+08:00

A man who set out to sea in a styrofoam box last week was rescued on Monday off Apo Island in Dauin, Negros Oriental after strong ocean currents carried him away from his intended destination, the province of Cebu.

The man, who identified himself as Reynaldo Roque, 31, married, of San Isidro, Leyte, had left Sitio Canday-ong in Barangay Calindagan here likely several days after he was rescued on MOnday. He seemed to be not in his right state of mind when interviewed by police investigators, said SPO4 Joel Alcala, deputy police chief of Dauin.

Alcala said Bantay Dagat personnel in Apo Island found Roque adrift in a styrofoam box on Monday dawn and rushed him ashore. He was turned over to a police personnel assigned at Apo Island, who, in turn, brought him to the Dauin police station.

Roque was mostly incoherent during police investigation, but despite his perceived mental illness, Alcala said the man disclosed that he was wandering around Dumaguete for awhile, sleeping at parks and scrounging for food to survive. Sometimes he would go for days without food, he further claimed.

Before that, he found his way to Mabinay town, about two hours drive north of this capital, but was also made to ride a passenger bus back to Dumaguete.

The man also claimed he wanted to go to Cebu, where he has a cousin, to seek employment but that he did not have fare money.

Fire in Iloilo, Philippines Eats 190 Homes

2012-01-25T20:22:00.001+08:00

Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog here is eyeing the purchase by the city of the 1.8-hectare lot in Barangay Tanza Esperanza, site of last Sunday's big conflagration that razed down 190 houses and partially burned 10 more.

Mabilog said he is seeking to reach the lot owner, reportedly the Bedaña family to offer and purchase the lot so that the city government could start implementing site development in the area including a major roadway.

The fire in Tanza Esperanza razed to the ground some 80 percent of the houses, affecting 227 families and 1,140 persons. Neighbor barangays Tanza Timawa Zone 2 posted 27 totally burned and eight partially burned houses while Barangay Malipayon suffered 62 totally burned and four partially burned houses.

The city government is maintaining several relocation sites for the informal settlers taken out from the riverbanks and other danger zones. The bulk of relocated families are currently at the San Isidro relocation site in Jaro district, this city.

Sinking Boat in Dumaguete City, Philippines

2012-01-18T15:47:00.001+08:00

A month has passed since the cargo ship M/V Ever Transport III ran aground off the coast of Barangay Calindagan here last December 17 but it seems no effort has been made to salvage it until today.

Despite reassurances from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), public concern has surfaced anew over the possible effects on the marine environment and potential risks to mariners and the public with the vessel still not being retrieved from its current location.

The Steel Ray Salvaging Services has won the bid over another contender, the Uni-Orient Pearl Ventures, Inc., to salvage the grounded cargo ship, but its application for a permit from the PCG national headquarters has yet to be approved, Lt. Commander Agapito Bibat, chief of the PCG station in Dumaguete disclosed Wednesday.

According to Lt. Commander Bibat, the application for a permit to salvage is now sitting at the desk of the PCG Commandant at their central office for signature. Without such permit, the Steel Ray Salvaging Services cannot commence its operations to refloat and tow the M/V Ever Transport III, a cargo ship with a gross tonnage of 494.87 owned by Kheri Lines, Inc. based in Zamboanga City.

The Ever Transport III, which listed on its port side and with almost half of the ship submerged in water at high tide, has reportedly not shown signs of being dislodged from its original position since it ran aground last month due to tropical storm Sendong, as based on GPS plotting, said Bibat.

Philippine Broom - production of walis tambo

2012-01-18T15:46:00.001+08:00

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has recently granted at least P1 million to residents involved in the production of walis tambo (reed broom) in this municipality.

DOLE provincial officer Engineer Pedro Fernando, Jr., said the grant was given to a group of broom makers in Barangay Maugat here.

This, as the broom making industry received another big boost as various agencies, including the local government unit (LGU) led by Mayor Arvin Salonga, featured walis tambo during the celebration of the 169th Feast of San Antonio Abad that culminated on Tuesday.

In a street dancing competition held here, participants wore costumes decorated by materials used in producing walis tambo such as panicles of tiger grass, bamboo sticks and strings to highlight the booming industry.

Tiger grass grows in abundance, particularly in swampy areas, in this town.

"Really, it's more fun in this part of the country where people go to the streets and witness the excellent performance of our students in street dancing," Dr. Angelita Salonga-Esquivel, co-chair of the fiesta celebration,said.

While the showdown was ongoing, several stalls that offered solely walis tambo with appropriate markings that showed they were made in this town were on display at the vicinity of the municipal gymnasium.

Gawad Kalasag Awards

2012-01-18T15:44:00.001+08:00

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has conferred the "Gawad Kalasag" Awards to individuals and organizations, who have shown exemplary service in saving lives and properties in Region 1 during the onslaught of calamities last year.

The awardees were led by the Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1) headed by Police Chief Superintendent Franklin Jesus B. Bucayu, who received Certificates of Recognition from the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council 1 (RDRRMC1).

The occasion was made during the recent Regional Awards Recognition of Excellence in Disaster Risk Management and Humanitarian Assistance held at the PRO1 Grandstand recently.

Gawad Kalasag is the recognition scheme of OCD in its search for excellence on disaster risk management and humanitarian assistance. It aims to recognize the outstanding performance of Local Disaster Coordinating Centers (LDCC's), private volunteer organizations, non-government organizations, donor agencies, and other stakeholders, in providing humanitarian response and assistance to affected communities.

The ceremony was spearheaded by the OCD Regional Office 1 under the leadership of Director Melchito M. Castro, who is also the chairperson of RDRRMC1.

"Gawad Kalinga also aims to recognize individuals, groups or institutions that have shown exemplary courage, heroism, self-sacrifice, and bravery against all odds in times of natural and human-induced emergencies and disasters," said Director Castro.

Other PRO1 personnel who were also awarded individual recognition included Police Chief Superintendent Roman A. Felix, Deputy Regional Director for Administration; Police Senior Superintendent Mansue N. Lukban, Deputy Regional Director for Operations;

Police Senior Superintendent Reynante G. Partible, chief of the Regional Police Community Relations Division (RPCRD); Police Senior Superintendent Alejandro M. Valerio, Jr., Battalion Commander of the Regional Public Safety Battalion 1 (RPSB1); Police Senior Superintendent Noel B. Amoyen; and Police Superintendent Angelito D. Dumangeng, acting chief of the Regional Operations and Plans Division (ROPD).

Bamban to Moncada Towns

2012-01-18T15:43:00.001+08:00

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is fast tracking the improvement, widening, and concreting of the 53-kilometer road which starts from Bamban to Moncada towns.

The P790-million road project, which started October last year, is expected to be completed middle of this year.

DPWH regional director Antonio Molano said about 35 percent of the project is already completed.

To ensure the speedy completion of the project, DPWH assistant project engineer Edwin David said they are closely monitoring the construction, in close coordination with the affected local government units (LGUs) and the Traffic Management Group.

David said utility service providers such as the Tarlac Electric Cooperatives (Tarelco) 1 and II, telecom networks (PLDT, Smart, Globe) and water utilities have committed to transfer their facilities in order that the construction work will proceed without interruptions.

Motorists are also advised to take the alternate route at La Paz (SCTEX) to their destinations, he said.

The road project runs through three congressional districts of Tarlac.

In District 1, the scope of work from Paniqui to Moncada town consists of widening, bridge construction, upgrading, and asphalt overlay. The project costs P147 million.

District 2 project covers the widening and upgrading of road, the construction of canals, and asphalt overlay from Tarlac City to Gerona. Construction of the infrastructures would cost P412 million.

In barangay San Rafael, Tarlac City, one kilometer of the road is to be upgraded by at least half a meter to address the perennial problem of flooding in the area. This area had been identified as the lowest portion in the Tarlac segment of the Manila North Road (MNR).

2012 Sinulog in Cebu, Philippines

2012-01-11T09:17:00.001+08:00

Communications Officer
Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc.
Tel. no. (63 32) 418 7234 loc. 504
Email: Haidee.Emmie.Palapar@rafi.org.ph

Prayer is best way to celebrate Sinulog

The Feast of Sto. Niño on Jan. 15 is full of festive food, overflowing drinks, and street
parties. But nothing beats a solemn prayer to celebrate the day, according to two Sto. Niño
devotees.

Gloria Enclonar, who has been a devotee since she was 19 years old, said that beyond
the food and the dances, people must remember prayer as still the best way to thank the Holy
Child.

"Prayer is still the best gift for Sto. Niño and the best way to celebrate. For me, I would
complete the novena masses every year even under threats of a storm," she said in Cebuano
during the Pagtuki episode last Saturday.

Pagtuki is the radio program of Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), which airs every
Saturday, 10-11 a.m. at dyLA.

Enclonar said that she personally experienced the miracle of the baby Jesus when she
was 35 years old. The doctor had informed her of her difficulty to get pregnant. A believer in the
power of prayer, Enclonar asked Sto. Niño to grant them even just one child.

Now, she and her husband are raising their three biological children.

For Julia Maru, another Pagtuki guest who has been battling breast cancer for three
years, the miracle of Sto. Niño is manifested through the love and support of her family.

She continues to encourage her three sons to celebrate the Sinulog by attending the
novena masses.

"My Sinulog will be complete when I attend mass and give thanks to Sto. Niño. For me,
prayer is most important of all our Sinulog activities," she said in Cebuano.

Karl Damayo, exhibitions and museum collections officer of the Casa Gorodo Museum
of RAFI, said that Sinulog is really intended for giving thanks to Sto. Niño.

"The Vatican acknowledges the Sinulog as a prayer through a dance. There are only two
dancing prayers recognized by the Vatican. The other one is in Spain," he said.

KALAHI-CIDSS Project for newly-chosen municipalities

2011-12-21T20:20:00.003+08:00

The Department of Social Welfare and Development recently conducted a forum on Conditions and Precedents of the KALAHI-CIDSS Project to provide newly-chosen municipalities with the framework, design, implementation process and key requirements for enrollment to the Project.

The Local Government Unit Forum was intended to provide mayors and their key officials the basic knowledge on how KALAHI-CIDSS is implemented so that these local government units can "make informed decisions" on their inclusion in the project.

The municipalities of Kapalong, Davao del Norte and Pantukan, Compostela Valley will join KALAHI-CIDSS in January next year after they were chosen during the municipal selection process held in July this year.

The forum was also a way of communicating the LGUs with "opportunities to engage the Provincial LGUs and the KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Project Management Office around the possible provision of technical assistance and other forms of support in KC implementation."

"The forum provided the mayors the venue where they could get the much-needed knowledge in assessing the dynamics in KALAHI-CIDSS implementation," said DSWD Regional Director Ester A. Versoza, also the KALAHI-CIDSS regional project director.

Versoza said the forum also allowed the department to link up with the municipalities not only for the implementation of KALAHI-CIDSS but also for other poverty reduction programs.

KALAHI-CIDSS or Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services is a World Bank-funded project which utilizes the Community Driven Development (CDD) approach.

Donate Caskets to Sendong Typhoon Victims in CDO and Iligan City

2011-12-21T20:20:00.001+08:00

by Gideon C. Corgue

The provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur donates 100 handmade caskets for victims of the flood-affected area who died in a deadly flash floods that hit Iligan City in Southern Philippines.

Provincial information officer Leo Santillan said Governor Antonio H. Cerilles on Tuesday has ordered the provincial warden to immediately prepare funeral caskets for the victims.

Santillan said the caskets handcrafted by the 103 inmates of provincial jail were loaded in 5 dumptrucks delivered and turned-over this morning to a morgue n Iligan City.

Santillan said the caskets were intended to the victims in Iligan saying that it is near compared to Cagayan de Oro, whose people and properties also suffered death and destruction brought by typhoon Sendong.

OIC-provicial warden Arnell Joe Arcoy was impressed with the carpentry skills of the inmates adding that they have successfully produced the number of caskets as ordered by the chief executive despite the short number of hours given to them.

Arcoy closely supervised the inmates in making the caskets inside the Zamboanga del Sur reformatory center.

The efforts exerted is a show of unity between the government and civic organizations who manifested their great concern over the well-being of those who were victims of flashfloods Santillan said quoting Cerilles.

Despite the vicissitudes and turbulence in life, we, Filipinos still have the courage to rise up, Santillan added.

Seaweed Summit in Philippines

2011-12-21T20:19:00.001+08:00

by Thelma C. Bicarme and Max Prudencio

To further develop the seaweed industry in Cagayan Valley region, several plans have been laid out during the recent Seaweed Summit in Region 2, participated by representatives from national and local government agencies, state universities and colleges and non-government organizations.

Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Seaweeds Action Officer, Dr. Evelyn Ame said seaweed resources here are faced with threats and constraints which impeded its full development and optimum utilization.

Ame likewise laments that the seaweeds present in region 2 generally have low utilization as a food source.

"Seaweeds are highly nutritious and can help address nutrition problems among our constituents, sadly, these are hardly utilized except in the coastal communities," the seaweeds expert said.

"The open-access regime still exists, which if left unchecked, can eventually lead to lesser productivity. The gracilaria industry, on the other hand, suffer from low price as the seaweeds are mainly dried and shipped out of the region," Ame said.

To address these concerns, BFAR, with the assistance of other government agencies shall focus on the expansion of production areas, distribution of drying equipment, conduct of demos on seaweed processing and utilization, conduct of research on seaweed tissue culture and standardization of drying technique.

BFAR shall also create seaweed sanctuaries, pass resolution for regulated gathering and conduct massive information and education campaign on importance of seaweeds as alternative livelihood.

Philippine Football Players Play for Sendong Typhoon Victims

2011-12-21T20:18:00.001+08:00

Philippine Football Players Play for Sendong Typhoon Victims

There is a reason to go back to the field on Christmas eve.

Football players will play a weekend more on Saturday, this time to raise funds for the flood victims of the devastating Sendong which recently hit Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City and claimed some 1,000 lives.

Dubbed DFAid II, the fun games will be staged at the Davao Crocodile Park football complex with four football fields playing simultaneous games. It will be the second DFAid football-for-a-cause after the first one last July 7 to help raise donations for the flood victims of Matina.

DFAid II is organized by the Davao Football Community and Bravetower Events Promotions in cooperation with Davao Football Association (DFA), Davao Crocodile Park, Mindanao Travel Channel, and ABS-CBN.

"Yes, we are going back to the football field on Christmas eve to help the flood victims. We celebrated our Christmas party on the same day the floods hit Cagayan de Oro and we felt we need to go back and play, not to celebrate but to help," said Boboy Arrieta of the DFC after declaring that there will be football games this Saturday.

The DFC has already declared no games on Saturday after the completion of the three-leg DFC tournament and its Christmas party last Sunday.

Neil Bravo of sports firm Bravetower said he spoke to Davao Crocodile Park Football Academy coach Christian Ea who was in Cagayan de Oro with the Metro TMS club in the ongoing Philippine Futsal League Mindanao and was told of the situation in the calamity-hit city.

Bravo was told by Ea that there were even reports that there were some players and referees whose families perished in the floods.

"We hope that our football community will respond the way they did during the first DFAid. Maybe even more this time because of the gravity of the situation and the spirit of the Christmas season," Bravo said.

He added that Davao Crocodile Park president Sonny Dizon expressed elation over the social responsibility shown by the sports community.

ABS-CBN Davao through DXAB head Andy Rara already responded to receive and deliver the donations to Cagayan de Oro.

DFAid II will be a fun games format with teams playing 7-a-side. All four fields will be used simultaneously. Registration will be P500 per team with all proceeds going to the flood donations. Players and even non-players are encouraged to bring foodstuff, clothing, and bottled water which are the immediate need of the flood victims.

Activities at FARMC national level

2011-12-21T20:17:00.001+08:00

by Thelma c. Bicarme and Max Prudencio

The Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (FARMC) in region 2 recently elected its new representative to the planning, consultation and related activities at the FARMC national level.

The newly-elected representative, Alexander Agra, the current chairman of the Municipal of Claveria, together with his alternate, Eminio Albindo of MFARMC Sta. Ana, shall represent the fisherfolk of region 2 at the national level.

As Regional FARMC Chair, Agra said his priority would be to initiate the mandatory registration of all municipal fisherfolk and work for their accreditation at the department of labor, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and other relevant government agencies.

Likewise, Agra said that he will also recommend for the conduct of continuous enhancement training for current MFARMCs and the training for Deputy Fish Wardens.

The creation of FARMC is mandated at the national level and in municipalities abutting municipal water, and it intends to institutionalize the major role of the fisherfolk and other resource users in the planning and formulation of policies and programs for the management, conservation, protection and sustainable development of fisheries and aquatic resources.

Meanwhile, Senior Aquaculturist Venchito Villarao, BFAR 2 focal person for the Integrated Coastal Resources Management Project, disclosed plans to reactivate the Babuyan Channel Integrated FARMC early next year as measure to have a unified approach towards the management of the Babuyan Channel and expedite the resolution of issues affecting the area.

Floods in Bulacan State University, Philippines

2011-12-21T20:16:00.001+08:00

by Jose Mari M. Garcia

College students in low-lying Bulacan towns struggled to travel from their homes to attend classes during the previous massive flooding only to find out that Bulacan State University (BulSU) was also submerged.

With this perennial flood woe, the BulSU Board of Regents recently approved an P18 million budget to elevate the roads inside the main campus here and to repair the clogged drainage system which triggers backflow of rancid-smelling seepage.

BulSU president Mariano De Jesus said the fund came from the savings of the 20,000-strong university which was spawned from the development fee paid by the students.

"I am embarrassed seeing the students wade through flood waters while I'm in the comfort of my car. So when I saw that there was fund which can ease the problem, I decided to take action," said De Jesus.

When it rains, water pumps are placed in the main and second gates of the university to seep the flood which reached two-feet high and divert it to the roads outside.

Students were relieved at the said plan of the school.

"This plan to repair the road is beneficial. Our problem is that the flood outside the university is higher so the water is collected here inside. If this will push through, this will be a big help," said Lyndon Saguinsin, a fifth year in Civil Engineering.

Third year Journalism student Katherine Mae Corbillon was delighted as this flood problem has has been there ever since she entered the 107-year old university.

Doctors to the Barrios Program

2011-12-21T20:15:00.001+08:00

Ten young medical graduates were recently deployed to 10 doctor-less municipalities in Eastern Visayas under the 'Doctors to the Barrios' program, Department of Health Region 8 director Edgardo Gonzaga said.

Gonzaga said the doctors were assigned in fifth and sixth class municipalities namely, Limasawa in Southern Leyte; Jipapad in Eastern Samar; Hinabangan, Tagapul-an, Santo Nino and Matuguinao in the province of Samar; and Laoang, Silvino Lobos, San Antonio; and Gamay in Northern Samar.

The doctors are part of the 73 doctors who were recently assigned in various regions of the country namely, Northern Mindanao, 12; Western Visayas, seven; Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, seven; Ilocos Region, six; Cagayan Valley, five; Mimaropa, five; Cordillera Administrative Region, four; Central Visayas, four; Zamboanga Peninsula, three; Central Luzon, two; Calabarzon, two; Bicol Region, two; Caraga, two; Davao, one; and Socsargen, one.

Said doctors were trained by the National Telehealth Service Program, a collaboration of the Department of Health (DoH), the Department of Science and Technology, and the University of the Philippines Manila, in using telemedicine applications to support their practice in doctor-less and single-doctor communities.

They were trained to do tele-referrals to refer difficult to handle medical cases to specialists in government-run Philippine General Hospital.

Gonzaga said that telemedicine is bringing more Filipino doctors to the barrios. The government is now using information and communications technology to expand the scope of public healthcare services to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

Due to the absence of doctors in rural communities, indigent patients have to travel long hours to seek medical attention from clinical specialists in provincial or city centers.

Seal of Good Housekeeping

2011-12-21T20:14:00.003+08:00

Another feather in the cap for the municipality of Bayog!

Mayor Leonardo L. Babasa Jr. received yesterday, December 20, 2011 another award from the Department of the Interior and Local Government in a simple ceremony held at TIMMULCO Bldg., this municipality.

DILG Regional Director Paizal O. Abutazil arrived in the municipality to award the "Seal of Good Housekeeping" in behalf of DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo who was tied up with the relief operations in Visayas and Mindanao as an aftermath of typhoon "Sendong." Abutazil came with Provincial Director Abcede H. Asjali, Al Haj, Elmer L. Egama and Rhea A. Romanos, both DILG 9 staff.

Bayog bagged the award for passing the standard of good governance set by the DILG: compliance with the Full Disclosure Policy, no adverse findings from the Commission on Audit, and how the municipal officials run the local government in various aspects.

With this award, Bayog will get P1 million Performance Challenge Fund which Mayor Babasa received yesterday. This means the local government will benefit from the LGSP wherein LGUs will receive more assistance from other national agencies.

The awarding ceremony was also attended by the legislative body headed by Vice Mayor Romualdo Goding, barangay chairmen of the municipality's 28 barangays headed by Hon. Cesar A. Dela Cruz, President of the Liga ng mga Barangay, department heads and other key officials.

Public Warned on Swindlers in Isabela, Philippines

2011-12-21T20:14:00.001+08:00

Public Warned on Swindlers in Isabela, Philippines
by Merlito G. Edale, Jr.

The Isabela Police Provincial Office has called on Isabelinos to be careful against swindlers who are operating in the province, following the arrest of some of members of said syndicate in the province yesterday.

Police Senior Superintendent Franklin Moises Mabanag said the arrest of the suspects is the result of the vigilance of the public in reporting to the police the dubious activities of the syndicate.

Mabanag said the modus of the suspects is the exchanging of fake checks to business establishments wherein they were caught at San Mariano, Isabela.

Police in the province believed that the apprehended seven-member swindling syndicate in the province is only a part of a big syndicate operating not only in the province but in other parts of the Luzon.

The suspects are now at the police custody and a three-count case of swindling has been filed against them at the province's prosecutors office.

Mabanag has called on Isabelinos to report to the police those people who are doing doubtful financial transactions using fake checks.

He said swindling syndicates tend to take advantage of the holiday season when employees encash the checks they received from their employers.

Bayog and the City of Makati Agreement

2011-12-21T20:13:00.001+08:00

by Bernadine Astillero-Gabawan

BAYOG, Zamboanga del Sur, Dec. 21 (PIA) -- Hon. Leonardo L. Babasa, Jr., Municipal Mayor of Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur joined Hon. Jejomar Erwin S. Binay, Mayor of Makati City in signing an agreement marking the establishment of a twinning relationship between the municipality of Bayog and the City of Makati on November 23, 2011 at the 22nd Floor of the Makati City Hall.

Bayog was one of the 11 municipalities who entered into an agreement with Makati City on the said date where they expressed a common desire to promote and foster strong special ties, mutual understanding, friendship and goodwill.

The eleven municipalities are: Bato, Catanduanes; Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur; Cuartero, Capiz; Hinunangan, Leyte; Gen Nakar, Quezon; San Jorge, Samar; Sta. Cruz, Marinduque; Tadian, Mt. Province; Talisay, Camarines Norte; Tolosa, Leyte; and Virac, Catanduanes.

These municipalities share the same objective with the City of Makati in creating an atmosphere in which economic and community development can be implemented and strengthened. They have the common desire to strengthen friendship, mutual understanding through exchanges in science and technology, culture and arts, tourism, planning and urban development, commerce/trade and industry, education and sports development, environmental protection, public health and social services among others of common concern.

Relocation Sites for Sendong Typhoon Victims

2011-12-21T20:10:00.001+08:00

Relocation Sites for Sendong Typhoon Victims
by Precie Catherine C. Cuarto

The government is preparing safe relocation sites for the victims of tropical storm 'Sendong,' an official from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said Wednesday.

According to Cdr. Edgardo J. Ollet, Chief of NDRRMC-Office of Civil Defense, 49,441 families or 276,400 persons are staying in evacuation centers as of this morning.

As part of President Bengino S. Aquino III's thrust for poverty alleviation, Ollet said a cluster was formed to take charge of the relocation procedures to ensure that survivors will have a humane living condition after the deluge.

The cluster is composed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, National Housing Authority, Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and local government units (LGUs).

Ollet said President Aquino's order was not to let anyone go back to the hazard-prone areas. Public lands which will be granted by LGUs to survivors will be further examined by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of DENR to ensure that the soil is safe from liquefaction and possible landslide.

How to Make Coconut Tree Healthy and Profitable

2011-12-21T20:08:00.001+08:00

How to Make Coconut Tree Healthy and Profitable
by Ninfa B Quirante

Some 4, 900 bags of coconut fertilizers have been delivered to 10 municipalities in Samar under the National Coconut Productivity Program (NCPP).

In an interview, Samar's Coconut Development manager Emi Acasio said that the fertilizer is needed to make the coconut trees productive and bear quality fruits.

"The coconut fruit becomes heavier and the coconut meat thicker if the tree is fertilized," he told radio listeners in a phone patch interview, Tuesday.

As the province of Samar is divided into 10 coconut development areas; each area received 490 bags.

"These were directly delivered to the areas by a forwarder commissioned by PCA," added Acasio.

Aside from the fertilization of coco trees, another project under the NCPP, the Participatory Coconut Planting Project (PCPP), is also ongoing, the PCA director said.

Under the program, a farmer who plants a coconut tree is paid, this scheme starts when he plants the seedling and he gets P5.00. When the coco tree grows to a meter or so he is again given a certain amount; for a desired growth, a farmer gets paid, and all in all, a farmer is paid at least P30.00 just to make sure that the trees are surviving.

"Whats more, he can utilize the planted coconut, it is like saying that the government pays you for being a coconut farmer," said Acasio.

Relative to this, Acasio urged Samarnons to plant more coconuts.

How to Boost Local Halal Industry

2011-12-21T20:07:00.001+08:00

by Perlita Changco

In a bid to boost the local halal industry, the local government unit is pushing for the construction of a modern slaughter house in Cotabato City, Mayor Jojo Guiani, Jr. announced.

The Sangguniang Panlungsod has approved the P30 million appropriation for the implementation of said project by early next year.

Guiani said, as counterpart of the city government, negotiations are underway with barangay officials and private landowners for the donation of the construction site through a memorandum of agreement (MOA).

The official said, the project would not only provide livelihood opportunities for many residents but also boost the local economy through possible export of quality beef and sheep meat slaughtered and processed in said modern facility.

Guiani said the slaughter house forms part of the city government's efforts to push and institutionalize the halal industry in the area.

Cinematography Workshop in the Philippines

2011-12-21T20:06:00.001+08:00

Students of different schools in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi have undergone a four -day cinematography workshop conducted by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) at the Beachside Inn and Restaurant, which culminated last Dec 12.

Tawi-Tawi provincial information officer Abdel Nasser Tahang reported that the Introduction/Refresher to Basic Cinematography training program is aimed to inculcate basic knowledge on the components of cinematography or film making to its participants.

The workshop was attended by about 80 participants from the different colleges and secondary schools in the premier town, namely, Mahardika Institute of Technology (MIT), Tawi-Tawi Regional Agricultural College (TRAC), Mindanao State University (MSU), Abubakar Computer Learning Center Foundation Incorporated (ACLCFI), Notre Dame of Bongao (NDB), Tawi-Tawi School of Arts and Trade (TTSAT), Tawi-Tawi School of Fisheries (TTSF), and some volunteer employees of the provincial government of Tawi-Tawi and other LGUs.

It was learned that the decision to hold a seminar in Tawi-Tawi highlights the pledge of the FDCP to instill basic knowledge and understanding on how the people will undertake and achieve cinematography in this Southern island province of the archipelago.

Tahang said the workshop was the second FDCP activity in the province following its film festival by the Sineng Pambansa last September wherein about 10 films were shown to the people of Tawi-Tawi, which underscored the commitment of the FDCP "to bring Filipino films to Filipinos, wherever they may be in the scattered islands of the archipelago, or in their overseas communities," FDCP said in a statement.

Christmas tree made from sacks, dried coconut flowers and gihoy

2011-12-21T20:05:00.001+08:00

A parol crafted purely out of old newspapers, a Christmas tree made from sacks, dried coconut flowers and gihoy (midribs) and accentuated with plastic soda bottles caps, and a Belen fashioned out of dayami (rice straws), were declared First Prize Winners in the first-ever Kamundagan Festival conducted by the Catanduanes State Colleges Without Borders (CSCWB), a Social Networking Site of CSC alumni.

The contest was co-sponsored and facilitated by the CSC Federated College Student Council (FCSC) headed by its president Glenda Rima on December 16, 2011 at the CSC main campus. A total of P30,000 cash prize was provided by CSCWB. It was generated from the donations of its members who are all alumni of CSC and working elsewhere around the globe.

Eight Student Body Organizations from five CSC colleges and three departments, including four recognized fraternities and sororities at CSC participated in the contest. The CSC-FCSC also gave additional P500 for the consolation prize, other administrative costs, and work force requirement.

The complete list of winners and their cash prizes are: Parol Making Contest – First, College of Arts and Sciences SBO (P3,000); Second Place – College of Health Sciences (P2,000); Third Place – College of Technology-Department of Industrial Technology (P1,000); Consolation Prizes – College of Technology-Department of Engineering (P500); College of Business and Accountancy (P500).

Christmas Tree Making Contest: First Place – Department of Engineering SBO (P5,000), Second Place – College of Health Sciences (P3,000) and College of Arts and Sciences (P2,000); Consolation Prizes – College of Technology-Department of Technology (P1,000); College of Business and Accountancy (P1,000), College of Technology-Department of Information and Communication Technology (P500)

Belen Making Contest: First Place – Beta Kappa Pho (P5,000); Second Place – Alpha Kappa Rho (P3,000) Third Place – Tau Gamma Phi/Sigma (P2,000), and Fourth Place – Alpha Phi Omega (P1,000)

The CHS Christmas Tree is made of banig (caragumoy mat) and decorated with plastic pharmaceutical bottles and further accentuated with gold painted dried mana£o (wild orchid) leaves. The Department of Information and Communication Technology's Christmas tree is composed of compact discs symmetrically attached to a net.

Solid Waste Management in Philippines

2011-12-21T20:04:00.003+08:00

by Merlito G. Edale, Jr.

This Isabela town will not stop its solid waste management even during the upcoming holiday season as the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO) will continue to ensure 24/7 that the municipality will not incur volume of waste materials before, during and after the holiday season.

Municipal Environment and Natural Resources officer Henry Magno said he has already instructed his men to work double –time even during holiday season as more waste materials will be produced by households in preparation and after the celebration of Christmas and new year.

"I have instructed my men to work even during the holiday season to ensure zero waste," Magno said.

The municipality is champion on solid waste management for several years now and will continue to practice waste segregation.

OFW Family Day

2011-12-21T20:04:00.001+08:00

by Neil D. Lopido

Despite heavy rains caused by tropical storm "Sendong," the celebration of this year's OFW Family Day in Eastern Visayas last December 17 was successful, the regional Overseas Welfare Workers Administration informed the Philippine Information Agency 8.

OWWA-8 information office Florence D. Panao said that some 739 overseas Filipino workers and beneficiaries participated in the annual celebration with some who traveled from as far as Northern Samar and Southern Leyte just to show and experience the joy and value of togetherness despite the distance and bad weather condition.

Though it was expected that at least 1,500 OFWs and their beneficiaries will attend the event, still OWWA-8 through director Ma. Evangelina V. Filamor was confident to say that the activity was successful.

One of the highlights of the whole day activity include the awarding of a former OFW from Isabel, Leyte in the name of Victor Villegas who was represented by his son and wife, as a gesture of salutation to the achievements and heroic contributions to the country's economy. The award received include a cash donation of P5,000 and a check amounting to P5,000 plus a Noche Buena package, Panao said.

Other activities which highlighted the event, she said, include games and raffle of prizes like netbook computer, refrigerator, washing machine, rice cookers, oven toasters, cellular phones, USB flash drives, cellcards, t-shirts, and bags of Noche Buena packages.

Greening Program of the National Government of Philippines

2011-12-21T20:02:00.003+08:00

by Ruel M. Orinday

In line with the greening program of the national government, the community environment and natural resources office (CENRO) has planted about 190,000 forest and fruit trees in various areas of its responsibility.

Ramil Gutierrez, officer-in-charge forest management sector of CENRO Pagbilao said, the areas planted by forest and fruit trees were roadsides of the towns of Sariaya, Tayabas and Pagbilao including schools in Lucena City.

Under the protected area community based resource management agreement program, the area planted was Mount Banahaw San Cristobal in barangay Mamala, Sariaya, Quezon.

Other areas planted were Quezon Protected Landscape specifically in barangay Malicboy Pagbilao, Quezon and barangay Malinao Ilaya in Atimonan, Quezon; Barangay Ilayang Palsabangon, Pagbilao, Quezon and barangay Rosario, Mauban, Quezon.

Gutierrez also said the tree planting activities which started in January to December 2011 were conducted in partnership with the different local government units, rotary clubs, students, Department of Education and civil society.

The DENR is also targeting 500,000 seedlings (trees and fruit bearing trees) to be planted in 2012 in 1,000 hectares through the national greening program. The national greening program aims to increase household incomes, enhance environmental stewardship, improve general well-being of communities, increase economic activity, increase interest in technology and business development and increase production of crops and forest-based materials, increase environmental stability and sustain provision of ecosystem goods and services.

Road Project of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)

2011-12-21T20:02:00.001+08:00

by Joie L. Ceballos

Jabonga Mayor Glicerio Monton expressed optimism that the road project of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) will boost the economy of Barangay Baleguian in Jabonga, this province.

"This is a rich barangay, with rice as the major crop, and will prosper with this road", said Monton during the recently held turn over ceremony of the NRJ Baleguian – Bagang Farm-to-Market Road.

DAR-Regional Director Faisar Mambuay and Agusan Norte PARO Andre Atega handed pertinent documents to Mayor Monton during said activity.

Mambuay said that the 1.9 km road will benefit 250 agrarian reform beneficiaries and many other farmers and settlers in the barangay and its neighboring areas, and is expected to help them in their daily life.

For Barangay Kagawad Losantos Edilo, the project is an answer to a long dire dream and thanked DAR for its continuing effort of providing development for the farmers.

Also, Engr. Marybeth Burgos, representing Regional Director Danilo Versola of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), cited that the realization of the project speaks of the good relationship of the national and local government offices, particularly DAR and DPWH and the LGU-Jabonga.

Utilizing Pig’s Manure For Fuel

2011-12-21T20:01:00.001+08:00

by Carmel Chammag

A project in Banaue, Ifugao utilizing pig's manure for fuel was given a P 1.36 million grant by the Productivity Enhancement Program or KR2 program managed by the National Economic Development Authority – Cordillera Administrative Region (NEDA-CAR).

The project entitled "Promoting Bio Gas Technology at the Grassroots Level, " covers 10 barangays namely: Bocos, Poblacion,Viepoint,Taman, Amganad, Batad, Poitan, Kanakin, Bangaan, Dudigan with about 100 household beneficiaries. The project will start January 2012 and is expected to be completed in a year.

The Memorandum of Agreement ( MOA) for this undertaking between the local government unit of Banaue and NEDA-CAR was held last December 16, 2011. Mayor Jerry Dalipog of Banaue sign the MOA on behalf of Banaue LGU while Director Leonardo N. Quitos, Jr. signed on behalf of NEDA-CAR. Also present during the MoA signing were Banaue councillors Joel Bungallon and Jun Dumar.

During the MoA signing, a check worth P1.08 representing 80% of the P 1.36 million was turned over by Director Quitos to Mayor Dalipog. The remaining 20% or P272,000 will be given upon completion of the project.

The technology for bio gas is not new, however, it will be the first time that this undertaking will be pioneered on a barangay wide level.

The bio gas technology would make use of manure from pigs to be deposited to the bio tanks where it will be processed into fuel. PVC pipes will be connected from the bio tank to the households to supply the households with fuel. Part of the project is also an Information and Education Campaign (IEC) for the households beneficiaries on the use of bio gas technology and hog raising livelihood project. About 20 bio tanks will be constructed around the coverage barangays and approximately 100 piglets to be distributed to 10-15 households.

Free Clinic and Accreditation to Licensed Basketball Referees

2011-12-21T20:00:00.001+08:00

by Maritess B. Beñas

Members of the World Federation of Basketball and the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP) conducted free clinic and accreditation to licensed basketball referees and aspirants in the province last week here.

The clinic and accreditation was carried out by three licensed international referees and clinicians from the World Federation of Basketball and the SBP who came all the way to Abra to attend to the more than 70 participants here.

In an interview with the local media here, Daniel Soria, the SBP area head who came with Mr. Rocky Britanico and Mr. Reggie Valenzuela from the Philippine Basketball Association and Philippine Basketball League (PBA/PBL) in Manila, said the clinic and accreditation is conducted every two years for two reasons: first, for the referees to renew their licenses and second, for them to be updated of the changing rules of basketball.

The rules of the international federation of basketball change every so often that the referees have to be updated of these rules because basketball is global.

The SBP program on accreditation and licensing aims to enhance the referees skills and knowledge and push for the continuing movement and development of the basketball players because the performance of the basketball players is highly dependent on the referees' signals. The players must have a correct and common interpretation of the whistle of the referee.

The SBP conducted lectures, written examinations and practicum tests to the 70 referees and aspirants. Many of the participants are already trained and licensed referees who needed to renew their license.

Soria said there are a lot of potentials in Abra who can already go to the national and international levels of basketball.

Project on network of universities and research councils

2011-12-21T19:59:00.001+08:00

The National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP), in collaboration with the Ateneo School of Government of the Ateneo de Manila University, recently worked out a project on network of universities and research councils.

The three-year project entitled "Universities and Councils Network on Innovation for Inclusive Development in Southeast Asia (AUNIID-SEA) started last December 1, 2011.

Dr. Ellie Osir, program specialist of the regional office of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC Canada), initially met with NRCP executive director Dr. Cecilia P. Reyes as the projects new leader/coordinator.

The project aims to support universities and councils in Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Vietnam. They will be assisted by the network through NRCP in re-orienting their teaching, research priorities, and research agenda-setting.

Highest case detection and cure rate of tuberculosis (TB)

2011-12-21T19:58:00.001+08:00

The Center for Health Development (CHD)-Calabarzon region of the Department of Health (DOH) recently awarded Rizal province for achieving the highest case detection and cure rate of tuberculosis (TB) in the whole region.

In a letter to Rizal Gov. Jun Ynares, Director Juanito Taleon of CHD-Calabarzon region said that the province is receiving an achievement award for being the regional champion with the highest TB case detection and cure rate during the 6th Tuberculosis program regional recognition rites held recently in a famous resort hotel in the province.

The award is the second recognition given to Rizal province. Rizal Gov. Jun Ynares said that the award is another manifestation of our unrelenting efforts to totally control the spread of the disease among the province's vulnerable constituents.

In a related development, the provincial government of Rizal has scaled-up its anti-TB program by collaborating recently with various government agencies and private groups and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU). The MOU signing marked the public-private partnership initiative in providing access to TB care and management and ensures all people can avail of the TB treatment.

Valenciana Festival

2011-12-21T19:57:00.001+08:00

Thousands of Gentriseños including local and foreign tourists witnessed and joined the much awaited 2nd Valenciana Festival which was held at the town plaza.

Mayor Luis "Jon-Jon" Ferrer IV and Cavite Councilor's League President Morit Sison led local officials in tasting the special cuisine made of rice, vegetables, saffron, chicken, and seafood.

The primary objective of this festival is to promote cultural awareness, attract local and foreign tourists and investors as well. It also to support the government's One Town, One Product (OTOP) campaign.

Valenciana is famous all over the province that the food itself has become a favorite staple in almost every gathering.

Valenciana is a special cuisine of Gentriaseños that was inherited from the Spaniards during the early times. The dish is derived from the Paella Valenciana, which originated in Spain. It is a one-pan peasant's dish made of rice, vegetables, saffron, chicken, and seafood.

Lacierda to Palparan: Surrender now

2011-12-21T19:56:00.003+08:00

Lacierda to Palparan: Surrender now

Come out, come out wherever you are.

Retired Major General Jovito Palapran, formerly so bold and brazen, and lavishly coddled by the former administration, is now a fugitive from justice.

Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo and Justice Secretary Lila de Lima have formed a joint task force composed of the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation for the purpose of finding, arresting, and detaining the fugitive Palparan.

While he no longer has men under his command, and while he can no longer behave with impunity, it is incumbent upon Mr. Palparan to submit to the authorities and face the charges in court. We would hope that he will face the music and face the charges. Surrender now.

Christmas treat by lowering power rates

2011-12-21T19:56:00.001+08:00

by Cristina Arzadon

The Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative (INEC) is giving its consumers a Christmas treat by lowering power rates by P0.60 per kwh (kilowatt hour).

The adjusted rate will be reflected in the December billing making power rates at P8.80 per kwh from a previous rate of P9.40 per kwh.

Engr. Renato Balintec, Inec general manager, said the new power rate is a result of lower power costs that INEC bought from power suppliers like the spot market.

"This is also in line with the principle on supply and demand such that when there is an oversupply and under consumption, the result is lower power cost," Balintec said.

"For example, because of traditional Holiday vacations, we expect lower power consumption when government offices and other businesses close down for the Christmas and New Year breaks," he added.

He noted that the cause for high cost of electricity in the previous months was due to a power shut down of the Malampaya Gas which supplies power to major areas in Luzon including Metro Manila.

"When Malampaya gas shut down, our rates increased by P0.40 because big power plants stepped into the shoes of Malampaya to produce electricity that it should have generated. These plants were using expensive crude oil," he said.

Balintec said Malampaya has resumed its operations resulting in a reduction of power costs.

Achievements of the OFWs

2011-12-21T19:55:00.001+08:00

by R.G. Cadavos

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Regional Office 8 gathered at least 739 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) throughout Eastern Visayas Region to participate in the annual OFW Family Day, December 17.

OWWA RWO 8 officer-in-charge director Ma. Evangelina V.Filamor in her report, Tuesday said that the gathering was attended by OFWs from as far as the uppermost part of Northern Samar to the municipality of Pintuyan in Southern Leyte.

"The joy and value of togetherness of the said celebration and a chance to take home major and consolation prizes were enough reasons for them to push through despite the distance and the bad weather," Fillamor said.

"We were expecting as many as 1,500 OFWs and their beneficiaries as evidenced by the number of pre-registrants who confirmed their attendance to the said activity. But the bad weather prevented them to do that. Nevertheless, we are confident to say that even if Sendong swept Eastern Visayas, the 2011 OFW Family Day was a success," Filamor said.

The occasion was a salutation to the achievements of the OFWs to the country's economy, she said. This year's OFW Family Day highlighted fun, games, and raffle.

Oplan Iwas Paputok

2011-12-21T19:54:00.003+08:00

The Department of Health (DoH) and the provincial health office including the Cavite Provincial Police Office (CPPO) and at least 14 local agencies joined hands in the recent launching of the "Aksyon: Paputok Injury Reduction" (APIR) aimed to make the holiday season safe and joy for everyone.

APIR or "High Five" in English (formerly called "Oplan Iwas Paputok) is an all-out campaign against prohibited firecrackers in this premier province.

Provincial Health Office head Dr. George R. Repique and Provincial Epidemiologist, Dr. Nelson C. Soriano led the recent APIR conference at the session hall in Trece Martires City. It will be implemented before, during and after the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

During the conference, Superintendent Michael B. Secillano, chief of CPPO for branch operation was quoted in saying that "APIR is for everyone to heed and keep the Christmas and New Year celebration safe and healthy to one and all. We have to remind everybody about the risk or hazards of exploding firecrackers so that we can go on high five after the season."

Meat Safety in the Philippines

2011-12-21T19:54:00.001+08:00

by Aurora J. Casimpan

As preventive measure against the expected influx of unsafe meat in the market this holiday season, local government units (LGUs) in Eastern Visayas are urged to reactivate its Task Force Bantay Karne (TFBK) by the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) in the region.

NMIS regional technical director Dario Bonifacio Canillas informed that only cities and provincial capitals in the region have active TFBK. Since it is expected that demand for meat products would rise during the holidays and that the 10 personnel of NMIS would be unable to cover all markets in the region, the active participation of LGUs would boost the drive against errant traders of unsafe meat in the locality.

Canillas disclosed that an LGU task force is composed of the city municipal mayor as head, with members coming from the veterinary office, local police, non-government organizations, social welfare office, municipal health office, and Sangguniang Bayan chairperson on committee on health and laws.

The function of the task force is to set up a checkpoint near markets to deter illegal meat traders to ply tainted meat.

Although TFBK of LGUs is functional year round, it is told to strengthen its monitoring function every December in anticipation of the high demand for meat during the Christmas season.

The responsibilities of the task force also include strengthening the checking of illegal slaughtering and hot meat distribution and sale within the municipality and inspection of pertinent documents of all meat products.

Proper waste management through different school activities

2011-12-21T19:53:00.001+08:00

In support to the advocacy of Mayor Doy Leachon towards sustainability of the Green Calapan program, the Holy Infant Academy (HIA) complied with the city ordinance on proper waste management through different school activities.

Otherwise known as Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 or RA 9003, the HIA thru the joint efforts of Fr. Nestor J. Adalia, school director, and Alona V. Cueto, school principal, adapted a child-friendly waste segregation project, by practicing the least use of plastics and implementing the smoke ban in all premises of the school and the cathedral.

Themed "HIAns in action for Life", the school launched the "HIAns in action for Clean and Green campaign" which resulted to different activities anchored to the six undertakings of the Green Calapan program namely: No Smoking, No Plastic Use, Earth Hour, Tree Planting, Clean City, and Materials Recovery Facility.

In compliance with the No Smoking Ordinance, Sto. Niño Cathedral Parish and HIA prohibited smoking on parking areas inside the school and the church compounds.

As part of implementation of the No Plastic Policy, the canteen stopped using plastic drinking straws for softdrinks. The school also discouraged the use of Styrofoam - whenever there are celebrations the students are encouraged to bring their own containers.

Actively pushing the goal of instilling among students the right practice of waste segregation, the School Council of Students (SCS) distributed to each classroom two new trash bins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes; and boxes for papers which can still be recycled.

Moreover, garbage disposal areas of the school were specified. Located in these areas are groups of bins secured in structured plywood and covered with tarpaulins having cartoonish designs to get the attention of children of the designated areas to throw their trash.

Festivities and gift-giving in Philippines

2011-12-21T19:52:00.003+08:00

Festivities and gift-giving welcomed the residents of this premier municipality with recent opening of the 678 Wet and Dry Market located along Molino Boulevard. It is the biggest wet and dry market in Bacoor.

678 Wet and Dry Market, with around 600 tenants is situated on a two-hectare project which encompasses the 678 Commercial Complex; the wet and dry and the 678 Sakayan Terminal.

It transforms the concept of a conventional marketplace into a community center that caters to all the needs of the nearby residents.

The complex is designed to be sustainable with the buildings properly distributed and a landscape that dedicates more than forty (40) percent of the land area to open spaces such as pocket gardens and park areas.

The Sakayan Terminal on the other hand, will serve various routes in and around the province and other parts of Metro Manila.

The market also supports a no-plastic bag policy and will use recyclable paper bags and other biodegradable materials for packaging.

Avoid indiscriminate firing during Christmas

2011-12-21T19:52:00.001+08:00

The 1,568 police force from 4 cities and 19 municipalities were ordered to seal with tapes their firearms to avoid indiscriminate firing during the Yuletide season.

It started last December 16 and will last up to January 2.

The said order came from Cavite Police Director Senior Superintendent John C. Bulalacao as he reiterated his earlier call to the men and women in uniform and to the civilians that those who fired their guns indiscriminately will be meted with the filing of appropriate charges and immediate detention.

"We are reminding everyone about the hazards of gun-firing. We will not tolerate indiscriminate firing. Policemen and civilians will be arrested, charged and detained if ever they will be caught firing their guns," Bulalacao said.

The office of the CPPO Public Information Office headed by Chief Inspector Romulo Dimaya also urged the citizens to cooperate and report to PPO and to police officers those policemen and civilians who fired their guns indiscriminately.

Help Reduce Philippines' Food Wheat Import

2011-12-21T19:50:00.001+08:00

The government is eyeing the use of 'uraro' as a potential wheat flour substitute to help reduce Philippines' food wheat import amounting to more than $200 million yearly.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is looking into the expansion potential of arrowroot, popularly known as 'uraro,' even as a unique community participation technique has raised yield of 'uraro' tubers.

This is by an average of by 100 percent from four metric tons (MT) per hectare to eight MT per hectare in a pilot program of DA's Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) in Catanuan, Quezon.

'Uraro' thrives anywhere in the country for as long as there's enough moisture. With our program to raise farmers' "sense of ownership" in the project, we're able to help them realize that agriculture can be a lucrative business," said Rosemarie Bautista-Olfato, Department of Agriculture (DA) - Southern Tagalog Integrated Agricultural Research Center (STIARC) assistant manager for technical programs.

The use of organic fertilizer was one of the major interventions of government in raising arrowroot production.

At present, Catanuan's 'uraro' produces only starch. However, with processing interventions, it will subsequently produce flour. The starch is now branded in the market as 'Catanuan's All Natural Arrowroot Starch".

The Philippines has long been in a search for food and wheat-based flour substitutes that may help reduce the country's dependence on food wheat importation. Among these potential alternates are corn flour used in pan de sal, pigeonpea flour used in noodles and pasta, squash flour used in Food and Nutrition Research Institute's (FNRI) 'yellow pan de sal.'

Over the long term, government may also look into 'uraro' flour's use as bread and pastry which are the major food products consumed from wheat flour.

Help Filipinos in Cagayan De Oro and in Iligan Cities

2011-12-21T19:48:00.001+08:00

The local government of Bacoor headed by Mayor Strike Revilla is accepting donation from individuals, groups and businessmen to help their kababayans in Cagayan De Oro and in Iligan Cities who are most affected by typhoon Sendong by donating medicines, clothing, foods and blankets.

The said donation will be turned over to ABS-CBN and GMA relief operation teams for immediate dispatch to the affected areas.

According to Ms. Khei Sanchez, Chief of Public Information Office (PIO) and currently president of the Cavite Communicator's Network (CCN), this move of the local government is a show of support and compassion to the innocent victims of the natural calamities.

Sanchez added that those interested, they may send their donations (goods) to the PIO at the 4th floor of the municipal town building and in Barangay Hall of Molino 3 starting today until Wednesday next week except on December 24, 25 and 26.

NFA Rice in Eastern Visayas, Philippines

2011-12-21T19:45:00.001+08:00

by Neil D. Lopido

With barely 10 days more to go before the year ends, the National Food Authority (NFA) in Region 8 assured that the NFA rice in Eastern Visayas is sufficient - it has stocks of 834,925 bags including the 16,728 bags of iron-fortified rice or I-Rice.

According to Mary Agnes Militante, NFA information officer, as of December 15 of this year, the actual rice distribution in Region 8 was recorded at 1,134,076 bags which is 57 percent of the 1,997,000 bags of rice targeted.

On the other hand, the actual I-Rice distribution in the region reached 399,581 bags as of December 15 with the province of Eastern Samar recording the highest sales at 105,828 bags.

The price difference between NFA and commercial rice in the market is not that much, Militante explained.

As of this writing, the actual palay procurement in Eastern Visayas was already pegged at 23,586 sacks or 152 percent of the 15,500 target for this year distributed as follows: Biliran (8,680 sacks), Northern Leyte (6,420 sacks), Southern Leyte (3,407 sacks), Samar (1,817 sacks), Eastern Samar (1,727 sacks), and Northern Samar (1,535 sacks).

Militante said that Eastern Visayas has the highest number of palay procured among the regions nationwide.

Calamity Fund - 2011 National Budget of the Philippines

2011-12-21T19:44:00.001+08:00

Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad today clarified that the P5-billion Calamity Fund was not vetoed under the 2011 National Budget, adding that the budget for disaster response and management remained intact under this year's General Appropriations Act (GAA).

"No amount of the total Calamity Fund was vetoed. The Aquino administration's capacity for managing and responding to disasters is still robust. In fact, we now have a balance of P1.297 billion from the Calamity Fund ready for Sendong victims," Abad said.

He said that contrary to recent reports, the GAA for 2011 merely cautions against using the Calamity Fund for pre-disaster activities, such as the preparation of relocation sites or facilities and the training of personnel directly involved in disaster management, as indicated in the Conditional Implementation of Special Provision No. 1 in this year's Calamity Fund.

Abad further noted that funds for disaster preparation had been effectively integrated in various agency budgets, including those for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of National Defense (DND).

"In imposing the conditional implementation, the Administration actually ensured the proper use of public funds for disaster management, while allotting sufficient funding for pre-disaster programs to all responsible agencies. We took these into account to maximize government's ability to assist and rehabilitate calamity-stricken areas, as well as to avoid redundancies in public spending," Abad said.

Under the conditional implementation of the provision, President Benigno S. Aquino III stated that using the Calamity Fund for pre-disaster projects and programs "must be weighed against the imperious need of maintaining sufficient provision under the Calamity Fund for actual calamities," and that the conditional implementation will "prevent [the Calamity Fund's] full utilization for pre-disaster activities."

Requirements of Social Pensions in the Philippines

2011-12-21T19:43:00.001+08:00

Requirements of Social Pensions in the Philippines
by Maritess B. Beñas

The Provincial Social Welfare Officer here reminded beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) to comply with the requirements and conditions on the provision of the social pensions and other benefits under the said Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program of the national government or else they will be dropped from the rolls.

Observations on the violations of the policies in the implementation of the program have been the subject of reports and commentaries by the local media here.

PSWD Officer Decimia D. Cabang said that the term conditional cash transfer implies that there are conditions that the beneficiaries have to comply with. Some of the basic requirements is for the beneficiaries to attend the regular seminar-training programs on various concerns such as basic health and nutrition, family planning, as well the attendance of their children to school.

There are now 13 municipalities in Abra where the 4Ps is being implemented. The beneficiaries were identified through the National Household Targeting System (NHTS) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The provincial capital town of Bangued with more than a thousand beneficiaries was recently added to the existing list of 4Ps beneficiaries in the province.

Proper Waster Management in the Philippines

2011-12-21T19:42:00.001+08:00

Proper Waster Management in the Philippines
by Wabilyn C. Mana-od

In their desire to help in the mitigation and lessening on the volume of garbage every day, the Bontoc Market Vendors Association (BOMARVA) started the advocacy on proper waste segregation and decomposition of collected garbages especially at the market vicinity.

The BOMARVA members informed Mayor Pascual Sacgaca about the organization's move to help in the waste management at the market as they asked assistance and support for the implementation of their garbage segregation and decomposition project.

The members earlier voluntarily dug out a compost pit at a private property of BOMARVA president, Ms. Paula Acofo. They will be using some element for faster decomposition. The decomposed output shall be used as a fertilizer by the members.

The mayor signified the support of the municipal government on the initiative of the said organization which is in support to waste management which is among the priority agenda of the administration.

Sacgaca immediately directed the laborers and garbage crew under the construction and maintenance unit of the Municipal Engineering Office to coordinate with the members of the BOMARVA for the scheduled hauling of waste from the market.

According to Acofo, they needed the assistance of the laborers to carry and haul the garbage because most of the members of the organization are elderly. She added that the garbage are properly segregated because all the vendors are informed on the proper waste segregation and that all the containers have their own labels. Further, Soledad Kittong, member of the organization, is also working out and sharing her knowledge in proper waste management.

Organizations Regarding Employee Retirement Plans

2011-12-21T19:41:00.001+08:00

by Dan B. Codamon

The Provincial Tripartite Industrial Peace Council of Ifugao (TRIPC) with the assistance of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) recently conducted an orientation meeting to the Board of Directors (BODs) and Board of Trustees (BOTs) of its member organizations regarding employee retirement plans.

The BOD and BOT participants came from the different sectors representing cooperatives, transport group, retail services, hotel and restaurant, and the academe.

They were oriented about the several retirement plans and schemes that organizations can adopt for the benefit of their employees including the BODs and BOTs as provided in the implementing rules and regulations of the Labor Code of the Philippines.

TRIPC Chairman Hubert Immoliap said that the retirement plan of employees is very important because it gives a sense of assurance and security to the employees that can motivate them for greater productivity and efficiency.

The activity is part of the action plan formulated by the officers and members of TRIPC during their organizational meeting held last 21 June at the DOLE Office.

Meanwhile. DOLE Ifugao Field Officer Alexander Gumabol explained that the TRIPC can serve as a consultative mechanism to generate the views of the sectors regarding policy issuances, venue for implementing government thrust of maintaining industrial peace and advocating for shared responsibility among social partners.

He said that the group had already conducted a series of activities during the previous months after its organization such as orientation on the labor relations, human relations, productivity, seminar on the Code of Ethics of Cooperatives, performance evaluation and monitoring of staff and officers of the cooperatives.

They were also given lectures on the guidelines on the imposition of double indemnity for no compliance with the prescribed increases or adjustments in wage rates, guidelines for the implementation of a drug free workplace policies and Labor Standard Enforcement framework.

Bioethanol industry in the Philippines

2011-12-21T19:40:00.001+08:00

by Danny O. Calleja

The country's bioethanol industry has the potential of generating about 180,000 jobs and generate foreign exchange savings of nearly US$ 800 million by 2015, according to the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) of the Department of Agriculture (DA).

Over the last five years, the BAR has been funding field testing of sweet sorghum varieties in different sites in the country in the vision to make Philippines less dependent on expensive, imported ethanol oil and generate rural jobs, its director Nicomedes Eleazar said in a statement here on Tuesday.

Through this initiative, Eleazar said it is estimated that bioethanol has the potential to generate jobs totaling 179,386 by 2015 and 289,611 by 2020. It may also generate foreign exchange savings placed at US$ 789.3 million in 2015 based on a study of the National Sweet Sorghum Program (NSSP).

"Sweet sorghum is a good alternative to other ethanol feedstocks. It can stand alone as a life-giving crop to farmers in far flung areas because it is used to make many food products like juice and syrup. But we will maximize its economic value by producing ethanol from it," Eleazar said.

BAR has already obtained outstanding varieties of sweet sorghum through its partnership with the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and a distillery has also been developed with the assistance from Department of Science and Technology (DOST), he said.

The machine was developed by scientist Sergio Capareda following his recent return to the country after a long stint with Texas University in the United States.

Capareda designed the distilling column and guided its fabrication, while Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) Material Science expert, Samuel Franco designed the furnace.

The NSSP, Eleazar said already sees hope of Philippines' commercial production of sweet sorghum ethanol as several large companies have also positioned themselves for its processing. Among these are Seaoil's Fuel Inc. and Philippine National Oil Company-Alternative Fuels Corp. (PNOC-AFC).

Bugis boundaries of the Kalingas

2011-12-21T19:39:00.001+08:00

by Peter A. Balocnit

A congress of peacepact holders and elders formally asked recently the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to recognize the "bugis" (boundaries) of the Kalingas as an established territory of an "ili" (settlement).

In its resolution to the NCIP, the body during the "bugis" congress held at the Pastoral Center here requested for an en banc approval of the delineated "bugis" of the ancestral domain of the different sub-tribes in the province.

The bugis, according to the Congress, is defined as the territorial boundaries of a particular ili or group of ilis under the "pagta" (peacepact bylaws) of their "podon" (peacepact) and encompasses all lands and natural resources traditionally owned by the sub-tribes by themselves.

The bugis is handed down from ancestors and constitute the ancestral domain to include ancestral lands, private properties, forests, pasturelands, agricultural and residual lands, hunting grounds, bodies of water and subterranean deposits.

The bugis since time immemorial is being self delineated by Kalingas' forebears indicating the significant natural landmarks and recognized collectively by all "pindonans" (peacepact ties).

The resolution also asked NCIP to formally accept the bugis as a native title, its metes and bounds to constitute the same as a legal instrument to show proof of ownership by a particular ili or group of ilis.

Governor Eugene Balitang Inaugurates Barangay Health Center

2011-12-21T19:38:00.001+08:00

by Vency D. Bulayungan

Folks here are grateful as they joined local officials in the inauguration of the newly constructed barangay health center.

Governor Eugene Balitang said that the Pieza Barangay Health station is a milestone in the lives of the people here as this has been the clamor of the residents to meet their health needs.

"It has been our desire to bring services like this to the grassroots and since health is one of our priority agenda, we always see to it that we strengthen the preventive side thru our public health advocacies," Balitang said.

"With the establishment of the said health facility, people will not be hard up in going to the town center to seek for early treatment of their ailments and pregnant women who are about to give birth will be taken cared of and this will save the lives of both mother and child," Balitang added.

The health center is funded under the European Communities-Department of Health (EC-DOH) and the construction started during the administration of former governor Teddy Baguilat Jr, now the congressman of the province.

Increase in Tax Collection of BIR Philippines

2011-12-21T19:37:00.001+08:00

Increase in Tax Collection of BIR Philippines
by Phres A. Evardone

The Bureau of Internal Revenue reported a 12 percent increase in its tax collection this year. This was announced Wednesday by Deputy Commissioner Nelson Aspe during the Communication and News Exchange Forum held at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

Aspe said the collection from January to February this year was P854.5 billion which is around P101 billion higher than the collection for the same period in 2010.

"Even though this 11 month tax collection is P5 billion short of our collection target for 2011, still, this increase is more than satisfactory considering that our gross domestic product (GDP) did not increase by 12 percent" Aspe added.

As for the year-round collection target of P940 billion, Aspe said the internal revenue office is still beefing up its efforts to collect the remaining balance of its 2011 target.

Aspe further said that the operations group of BIR is currently discussing various strategies to reach the P1.66 trillion revenue collection target for 2012.

Tips to maintain good health

2011-12-21T19:36:00.003+08:00

by Vency D. Bulayungan

As the Christmas and new year celebrations draw near, the health department is sharing tips to maintain good health.

Dr. Dino Tuazon, the Municipal Health Officer of Hingyon town, said in a radio interview, that in occasions like this when plenty of foods and drinks will be served, "take anything in moderation."

Tuazon said people sometimes forget the negative effect of eating too much fatty foods and taking in too much alcohol, but he reiterated that the public should always put their health first in order to save on money and avoid spending Christmas or new year at the hospital.

He said that among the leading causes of death in the province nowadays are hypertension and stroke which are often attributed to unhealthy lifestyle such as eating too much fatty, salty foods, no exercise and drinking too much alcohol.

He also advised that with the cold weather, the public should always wear protective clothings so that they will not easily get sick. The cold weather has also something to do with diseases such as stroke, he further said.

Safety of all “Simbang Gabi” goers

2011-12-21T19:36:00.001+08:00

by Mhars B. Lihgawon

LAGAWE, Ifugao, Dec. 21 (PIA) -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) has charted a round the clock security measures to ensure the safety of all "Simbang Gabi" goers in this capital town of the province.

Deputy Chief of Police (COP) Inspector Patricio Allaga, Jr said that PNP personnel were assigned to public places on a rotation basis to provide a continuous security to the populace.

"Each shift is composed of three PNP personnel assigned to public places particularly churches and other establishments to maintain peace and order and also to abate the occurrence of criminality," Allaga said.

He happily reported that since the start of the "simbang gabi" last December 16, they did not receive any report or incident of criminality.

Allaga further disclosed that their office is starting the implementation of the "iwas paputok" to avoid unwanted accidents during this yuletide season. He bared that they would conduct inventory of all known business establishments selling firecrackers to advise them to refrain from selling prohibited firecrackers and other hazardous pyrotechnics.

"We will furnish them communications including the banned lists of pyrotechnics for their guidance in purchasing their supplies purposely for sale to the people," Allaga said.

What to Eat During Christmas Holiday

2011-12-21T19:34:00.001+08:00

What to Eat During Christmas Holiday
by Irma A. Guhit

With the holiday season, people are more likely to take in too much of fatty, salty, and sweet foods, which are bad for the health, said Dr. Edgar Garcia, provincial health officer here said.

It is during this season that the provincial health office registers an alarming increase in non-communicable diseases.

Garcia said that people should be aware of the effects of consuming fatty, salty, and sweet foods that if cumulatively consumed, may affect the heart, blood pressure, and blood sugar that will ultimately cause some health problems.

The rainy season had also resulted in the increase of people, especially children, catching colds.

"We should enhance our immune system by eating more fruits, vegetables, and by drinking lots of juice and water," Garcia explained.

Garcia also reminds families to be more aware in food preparation where children will be conscious of consuming only healthy foods and avoid junk foods that are high in salt, additives, and preservatives.

He also reminded the public to refrain from getting wet since the erratic weather now the province has been experiencing for the past two months has made everyone susceptible to water and air borne diseases.

"Admitted here now here in the hospital are cases of people with high fever, colds that may lead to pneumonia if not properly treated," Garcia explained.

The provincial office through its Health Education Management System (HEMS) has been conducting information drives regularly in their barangay health clinics , municipal and district hospitals so that health consciousness should be one of the best awareness to mitigate health problems.

Fliers and information materials have also been distributed in health centers where mothers are provided interpersonal education especially those who are under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) who regularly visit health center.

President Benigno S. Aquino III Blames Illegal Logging

2011-12-21T19:32:00.001+08:00

by Robert E. Roperos

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Tuesday said illegal logging activities partly caused the recent flashflood in Iligan City, which left at least 283 people dead and 406 missing according to a report from the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD).

In his speech during the ceremonial distribution of relief goods at the Iligan City National High School (ICNHS) auditorium, Pres. Aquino said illegal activities must be stopped so that the disaster will not happen again.

He also directed the officials in Mindanao to take action against illegal logging activities in Iligan and nearby areas.

The President and his party arrived at ICNHS grounds at around 11 a.m. to distribute relief goods to flood victims. He was also briefed by National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Executive Director Undersecretary Benito Ramos.

After the engagement, the Presidential party went back to Cagayan de Oro and visited the flashflood victims housed in the evacuation center at Cagayan de Oro City Central School. The group then headed to Dumaguete City to assess the damages and extend financial assistance to the victims of Tropical Storm "Sendong."

In a related development, the Iligan City information office revealed that some 330 relief packs comprising blankets, mats, 3 kilos rice, noodles, coffees, sardines, and corned beefs from the Office of the President were distributed at the school's auditorium.

Meanwhile, data from the CSWD showed that as of December 19, 2011, 28 barangays were affected by the disaster. Families affected already reached 11,396 while houses totally damaged were 2,780 and 2,745 houses were partially damaged. Also, the estimated cost of damage is P195,833,856.

Policy of Mining Free Catanduanes

2011-12-21T19:31:00.001+08:00

by EA Bagadiong

Julie V. Fajardo of the Bagamanoc Rural Development High School bagged the trophy during the 11th staging of the Cesar V. Sarmiento Oratorical Cup held Friday, December 16 at the Provincial Capitol Dome with the theme: " A Policy of Mining Free Catanduanes for Sustainable Environment Protection and Development."

Aside from a trophy, Fajardo also got P10,000 cash and her coach, Alma Villamor also brought home P5,000. They also won the Oratorical Piece Best in Content that earned them an extra P5,000.

The Catanduanes State Colleges Laboratory High School, a four-time CVS champion landed on the second place with Carla Angelica Tulipat and coach Rico Romero taking home the 1st runner-up trophy and P8,000 while her coach got P4,000. Meanwhile, Catanduanes National High School represented by Kathleen Ann Quintal coached by Evelia Malijan ended on the third spot earning a trophy and P6,000 (and P3,000 for the coach).

Non-winning participants from different participating schools received certificates and consolation prize worth P2,000 each.

The board of judges were the following: Atty. Alfred M. Aquino (chairman), Rev. Fr. Paul I. Isorena, Atty. Pamela Joy T. Herrera, Engr. Fernan A. Gianan, Dr. Vietrez D. Abella, Gina B. Pantino, and Zsarmaine Marie A. Sarmiento.

According to Cong. Cesar V. Sarmiento, the theme is just timely as he cites recent attempts to explore and mine the island's underground resoruces. He added that Catandunganons must continuously safeguard the province against the possibility that it will become a mining zone in order to reassess mining's billion-dollar benefits against the irreversible damage it causes.The solon also recalled that he has filed a bill declaring Catanduanes as free from mining.

How to Donate Sendong Victims in Mindanao

2011-12-21T19:29:00.001+08:00

by Jomie Jean O. Apostol

Office of Civil Defense Operations Division Cdr. Edgardo J. Ollet called for the public to send relief/assistance to meet the immediate needs of the victims of typhoon Sendong in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City.

Ollet said aside from food and water purifiers or treatment plants, non-food items such as blankets and mosquito nets are needed because the unclean surroundings might pose health risks for the evacuees. He added that these cannot be considered as second priority but as important as food.

According to Ollet, another concern is the proper tagging of bodies and the shortage of cadaver bags, especially for the unidentified corpses which are already in an advanced state of decomposition. He also asked the non-government organizations to donate additional cadaver bags to the local government on the ground.

Ollet also pointed out that the water in CDO and Iligan are not yet safe for public consumption and given the lack of means like stove and firewood to boil the water with, he encouraged the evacuees to accept the government's help of bottled water.

He also reminded the residents to be careful in using the water because there are dead animals and dead bodies that might have contaminated it. That's why they are discouraging burying the bodies in places near communities to avoid contamination.

Donations for Tropical Storm Sendong can be sent to the following:

Peso: DSWD Donation-3122-1011-84

Dollar: DSWD Donation-3124-0055-81

Account Name: NDRRMC Donated Fund

Account Number: 0435-021927-130

Swift Code: DBPHPMM

Account Number: 36002016

Address: DBP Camp Aguinaldo Branch, PVAO Compound, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City

Account Number: 1432-1046-01

Address: DOH Trust Funds for Grants and Donation thru Land Bank of the Philippines

To donate thru GCash:

To Register: REG [space] 4-digit pin/mother's maiden name/first name/last name/address send to: 2882

Example: REG1234/perez/justine/cruz/199 Batasan Road Quezon City send to: 2882

To Donate: DONATE [space] Amount [space] Amount [space] MPIN [space] DSWD send to: 2882

Example: DONATE 1000 1234 DSWD send to 2882

For those who want to volunteer, you may inquire at:

DSWD Field Office 10

Masterson Avenue, Upper Carmen

Cagayan de Oro City

Tel. Nos.: (088)858-8134, 858-6333

Contact Manny Borres: 0906-6150095

National Resource Operation Center (NROC)

NAIA Chapel Road, Pasay City (beside Airport Police Department & back of Air Transportation Office)

Tel. Nos. (02)852-8081, 851-2681

Contact Francia Fabian: 0918-9302356

NDRRMC Central Office

Contact Person: Ms. Rufina Pascual

Address: Office of Civil Defense, Camp Gen. Aguinaldo, Quezon City

Contact Numbers: (02) 421-1920/0947-525-5536

Region X

Contact Person: Dir Ana Cañeda

Address: Hayes-Coralles St., Cagayan de Oro City

Contact Numbers: (088) 857-3907/0917-622-0901

For Foreign Donations:

Contact Person: Fe Catalina Ea

Address: Constitution Hills, Batasan Pambansa Complex, Quezon City

Contact Numbers: (02) 931-8101 loc. 226

National

Contact Person: Grace Ann Nisteros

Address: Constitution Hills, Batasan Pambansa Complex, Quezon City

Contact Numbers: (02) 931-8101 loc. 220

Regional

Contact Person: Atty. Araceli F. Solamillo

Address: Masterson Ave., Upper Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City

Contact Numbers: (088) 858-8134/(088) 858-6333

DOH-HEMS

National

Contact Person: Merlina Villamin, RN

Address: Bldg. 12, HEMS, OpCen San Lazaro Cpd., DOH Sta. Cruz, Manila

Contact Numbers: 0915-662-4724

Regional

Contact Person: Dr. David Mendoza

Address: DOH-Cagayan de Oro

Contact Numbers: 0999-993-1774/0917-308-8197

Philippine Government Calamity Fund for Sendong

2011-12-21T17:50:00.001+08:00

by Alice Sicat

The government has released a calamity budget of P1.3 billion to help the victims of the recent tropical storm Sendong.

According to Office of Civil Defense Cdr. Edgardo Ollet, the said budget was apart from the P300 million standby fund released by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) three weeks before the onslaught of typhoon Sendong. The said standby fund was a reserved budget for calamities, as PAGASA has forecasted that at least 2 to 3 typhoons are expected to close the typhoon season this month.

The calamity budget will be utilized to help the affected 65,067 families or 348,749 persons in the 13 provinces of Regions VI, VII, IX, X, XI, CARAGA and ARMM.

On the latest report by the Department of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Agriculture (DA), the infrastructure damages amount to almost P1 billion and the agriculture loss and damages amount to around P2 million.

Meanwhile, the latest list of casualties remains at 976. At least 432 individuals were rescued, 46 are still missing and a total of 1,603 people were injured.

The Palace assured the public that if additional disaster-response funds are required, the government has sufficient reserves to augment the calamity fund expedite relief operations to all affected areas and communities.

Website of Philpost Philippine Postal Corporation

2011-12-19T10:28:00.001+08:00

The Philippine Postal Corporation in the region (Philpost-7) is now seen in the net with its official website, wwww.philpost7.com.

Philpost-7 information officer Rachel Betos said the website aims to facilitate customers' concerns the fastest way possible.

They could ask for the rates in sending their mail matters; they can also track and trace their mail status; they can download application forms for business reply permit; postal ID, postage charge account; and they can contact the office through the website without the hassle of going through busy telephone lines, Betos explained.

The website contains the rate calculator in which the customers could now calculate postage charge right on the web. Track and trace system for detailed mail information, Betos continued.

Another information posted in the website is the zip code for fast and accurate mail processing and delivery. News update for latest events and development within the corporation, she added.

Philpost was created under Republic Act No. 7354, or the Postal Service Act of 1992.

It was primarily established to undertake and implement an intensive modernization and development program geared towards improving the country's postal system to best serve its postal needs.

PhilPost has set four (4) major goals to enable it to sustain the postal requirements of the country in the next millennium. They are: global reliability and dependability; market expansion through clientele satisfaction; mutually beneficial labor-management relations; and profit maximization through cost-effectiveness and resource efficiency.

Synergized action plan in delivering government services

2011-12-19T10:27:00.001+08:00

The Western Command (WESCOM), in its effort to come up with a more synergized action plan in delivering government services to the people through cooperation with the stakeholders, held an orientation-workshop on government programs recently with representatives from different agencies.

The 6th Civil Relation Group of the AFP reported that with the presence and input of participating agencies in the workshop held last December 13-14, the military was provided with a better understanding of government programs designed to improve the welfare of every Palaweño.

Among the government programs discussed in the two-day workshop were the cash grant scheme of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and agriculture-related programs of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD), Provincial Health Office (PHO), Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST); the former was designed to alleviate poverty whereas the latter aims to provide livelihood opportunities and increase productivity in agriculture.

Equipped with a deeper knowledge of these programs, WESCOM personnel involved in Civil Military Operations (CMO), in collaboration and partnership with concerned agencies, can better formulate a concerted, efficient action plan in bringing the services provided by these programs to the people that is more in line with the principles of the military's Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan.

Cruz Ablaña, team leader of DSWD-Region IV-B, MIMAROPA Office, explained the processes and mechanisms put in place to ensure the proper implementation of the department's cash grant program called "Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program" (4Ps).

City’s Best Performing Barangay

2011-12-19T10:26:00.001+08:00

by Ramon Dacawi

Imelda Village emerged the city's best performing barangay for the third straight year, this time besting 24 others which qualified for the annual contest sponsored by the city, through the Special Services Division (SSD) of the mayor's office.

For its three-peat, the community led by punong barangay (PB) Arturo Rapelo Jr. won P55,000 cash prize presented during the awards rites last Thursday at the Abada Hall of the Teachers' Camp.

Imelda Village received an additional cash of P30,000 also for having topped earlier the 2010 search for the city's most outstanding "Lupong Tagapamayap." The barangay fast improved on its third-place finish in 2008 and runner-up position in 2009.

Rapelo attributed the twin awards to the human resource development program of the barangay, leadership adjustments to various situations, links with various organizations and proper documentation of programs.

"I am sure the performance you have accomplished will be remembered," city mayor Mauricio Domogan told the awardees after presenting the awards with city councilor Peter Fianza and other officials.

"You are the front-liners in governance hence we can not underestimate the vital role you play," the mayor added.

City Camp Proper under PB barangay Aurora Abellera finished second and received P45,000 while Loakan Proper led by PB Jesusa Vizcaya took the third slot, good for P35,000 cash prize.

Irisan, the city's barangay in terms of area and population headed by PB Thomas Dumalti received P30,000 for finishing fourth while Pinget under PB Teresita de Guzman got P20,000 for ranking fifth.

Irisan added P20,000 to its coffers for its second-place ranking in the "lupon" contest, followed by Loakan Proper which received P15,000 and Pacdal which got P10,000 as incentive.

SSD chief Noel Mabutas praised the two panels of judges who spent months validating the reports of the barangays which competed in the twin contests. He also used the awards program as venue for also citing the city's partner agencies and volunteers in the "Pasadang Pambarangay" grassroots service delivery of city hall.

Increase in garbage output during Christmas

2011-12-19T10:24:00.003+08:00

by Aileen Refuerzo

The city government has prepared contingency plans to address the expected increase in garbage output here with the influx of visitors for the holidays.

Mayor Mauricio Domogan said the city environment and parks management office (CEPMO) under Cordelia Lacsamana will be on hand to tackle this concern even as he appealed to residents and tourists to do their share by minimizing their wastes and sustaining the segregation practice in their homes.

"The holidays will entail additional concerns and that can't be helped so we have to do what we can to address them," the mayor said.

CEPMO solid waste division chief Ruben Cervantes said solid waste workers will report on their usual 22-hour shifts even during the holidays.

"We will have no holiday in our office. Everyone will work double time to handle the expected abnormal volume of garbage," Cervantes assured.

He said the no-holiday work schedule will apply even to street sweepers and maintenance crews stationed at the city market and parks.

At present, the city's biodegradable wastes are processed by the two Environmental Recycling System (ERS) machines.

Rehabilitation of the collapsed retaining wall at Irisan dumpsite

2011-12-19T10:24:00.001+08:00

by Aileen Refuerzo

Mayor Mauricio Domogan expressed hopes that the P110 million approved by President Benigno Aquino for the rehabilitation of the collapsed retaining wall at Irisan dumpsite here will be released soon to ensure early implementation of the project.

"Hopefully the national government will release the fund approved in principle early so the project can be expedited and completed hopefully before the onset of the rainy season next year," the mayor said.

He said the program of work for the project has been submitted to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The project will cover the reconstruction of the retaining wall, which collapsed at the height of a typhoon in August, triggering a trash slide that killed six people.

The new structure is designed to withstand strong typhoons and heavy water flow which toppled the erstwhile protective wall in the area.

Earlier, the mayor formed a technical committee to prepare the plans for the rehabilitation of the wall and other reinforcement measures to strengthen the area.

The committee is chaired by city engineer Leo Bernardez and composed of Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources Environmental Management Bureau (DENR–CAR EMB) regional director Paquito Moreno, DENR– CAR Mines and Geo–Sciences acting regional director Orlando Pineda Sr., city building official Engr. Oscar Flores, Saint Louis University School of Engineering and Architecture Dean Engr. Bonifacio Dela Pena and Non –Government Organization consultant Dr. Virgilio Bautista.

20th Philippine Statistics Quiz

2011-12-19T10:23:00.001+08:00

by Alex A. Lumaque

A freshman student of Capiz State University (CapSU) – Burias, Mambusao campus won the recent 20th Philippine Statistics Quiz (PSQ) – provincial elimination.

Rey Mark Faderogao, taking up Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, bested 17 other contestants from Colegio dela Purisima Concepcion (CPC), Filamer Christian University (FCU), College of St. John – Roxas (CSJ – Roxas) and other CapSU campuses.

National Statistics Office (NSO) – Capiz Public Information Officer Rosiebelle A. Beluso said that other winners of the contest were Richel Lumbo of CSJ – Roxas and Jairus Vincent Paul Sinson of CapSU – main campus who got the second and third place, respectively.

Faderogao received a trophy and a cash prize of P3,000.00.

"The second placer received a medal and a cash prize of P2,000.00 while the third placer also got a medal and P1,000.00," Beluso said in a press release.

Negros Island the organic food bowl of Asia

2011-12-19T10:10:00.001+08:00

by Lorenzo O. Lambatin Jr.

Negros Occ. Board Member Miller Serondo cited the efforts of the province in producing organic products to make Negros Island the organic food bowl of Asia.

In his speech during the recent opening of the 6th Negros Island Organic famers Festival, he said there are now about 3,000 farmer-practitioners who are certified or in the process of converting to organic farming and with almost 50 partners coming from LGUs, GOs and NGOs.

There are also a total of 28 certified producers and processors of various organic products for crops and other products.

Some 81.85 hectares are now certified as organic farms and 185 hectares are in the process for certification for a total of 266.85 hectares.

Certified sugarcane areas have now reached 23756 hectares.

On herb vegetables and fruits certification, 184.84 hectares. have already been covered. About 70.84 ectares are already certified while 114 are in process.

More than 330 hectares coffee plantation are already certified with 284 hectares more are on process for a total of 579.90 hectares.

The province has a total of 1,269.15 hectares of land developed into organic farms.

The Negros Occ. government has certified 6 companies while 11 are in process and have also established 10 pilot organic villages established.

Serondo said it was the late Gov. Joseph Marañon with former Negros Oriental Gov. George Arnaiz and now Congressman of Negros Oriental who signed the MOA to make the island the organic food bowl of Asia way back in April 2005.

Incumbent Gov. Alfredo Marañon., an avid organic farming advocate, strengthened that goal by allocating P10million funding for organic projects and activities.

Republic Act 9593 or the New Tourism Law

2011-12-19T09:54:00.001+08:00

by Julie Fianza

Owners and operators of primary, secondary and related tourism enterprises in the city listened as Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Director Purificacion Molintas and Baguio Country Club General Manager Anthony De Leon discussed salient points of Republic Act 9593 or the New Tourism Law at the City Hall Multi-purpose hall last Wednesday.

Mayor Mauricio Domogan, who delivered the welcome remarks, expressed appreciation for the audiences' concern for the industry and that such should be sustained.

The tourism law was signed mid-2009 by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, as a national policy for tourism as "an engine of investment, employment, growth and national development, and strengthening the Department of Tourism (DOT) and its attached agencies to effectively and efficiently implement the policy…"

The tourism law targets the making of the country as a "world class tourist destination," with links and a cordial working relationship with local and international tourism institutes. This should be done with public and private partnerships, without sacrificing environmental concerns, and that programs should be coordinated within the grassroot levels, Molintas explained.

The law also mandates the formation of a tourism congress, which shall serve as "the private sector consultative body to assist the government in the development, implementation and coordination of tourism policies, plans and programs."

Dairy Goat Project in the Philippines

2011-12-18T19:51:00.001+08:00

by Dan B. Codamon

Fourteen farmer cooperators who started a dairy goat project at Barangay Payawan here recently completed their exposure trips to three provinces in Northern Luzon to gain more knowledge and insights in the successful implementation and management of their endeavor.

Accompanied by Dr. Gloria Evangelio of the Ifugao Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO), the farmer cooperators first visited the Small Ruminant Center and Dairy Processing Center at the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) in the Science City of Munoz, Nueva Ecija then to the Agriculture Training Institute of the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Metro Manila, to the Alaminos Goat Farm in Alaminos, Laguna, the Mendoza Goat Farm in Tarlac City and the JSJ Farm at Gerona, Tarlac. They also got some plants in CLSU which they can propagate for forage of their dairy goats.

The farmers said they learned many things from their exposure trip which they can use in their project and which they can also share to those interested in venturing to dairy goat production.

The dairy goat project started July this year from the P1 million Countrywide Development Fund of Ifugao Congressman Teddy Baguilat Jr. and P500,000 subsidy from the provincial government. This budget was alloted for the training of the farmers in dairy goat raising and the procurement of 126 does and 14 bucks that were given to the farmers as loans.

Each farmer was given nine does and one buck which they will expand by 2012 next year to reach the desired module of 24 does and 1 buck or a population herd of at least 300 does that can be sufficient to produce milk for the dairy project.

The loan will be repaid over a three year period in the form of breeder stocks which will also be given to interested farmers.

Government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)

2011-12-18T19:50:00.001+08:00

The government's Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is successfully implemented in the Cordillera, and will be expanded next year to cover about 58,653 household beneficiaries in all the municipalities and two cities in the region.

According to Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-CAR) Regional Director Leonardo Reynoso, the 4Ps benefits 28,323 poor household beneficiaries and has disbursed a total cash grant of P336,441,500, as of this year.

He said many success stories that they have documented include the program's immediate impact on the family beneficiaries such as the improved participation rate of children in schools and families' compliance on the program's health-related conditions.

The 4Ps, which is also known as Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT), is a poverty reduction and social development strategy of the national government that provides conditional cash grants to extremely poor households to improve their health, nutrition and education particularly of children aged 0-14.

Reynoso disclosed that the 58,653 household beneficiary target of DSWD comprises about 68 percent of the about 79,000 poor households in Cordillera that were identified by the National Household Targetting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) they conducted.

He explained that as much as they want to bring in all the 79,000 poor households into the program, the approved budget hinders them to do so. This is also the same in the national level, wherein of the 5.2 million poor households identified by DSWD's NHTS-PR, so far, only three million of them will be covered by the program.

Reynoso though affirmed that the DSWD will also continue with their convergence program, which means bringing in their two other core poverty programs – the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrity Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) and the Self-Employment Assistance laban sa Kahirapan (SEA-K), to the CCT areas.

Emergence of bibingka and puto bumbong stalls

2011-12-18T19:47:00.003+08:00

Emergence of bibingka and puto bumbong stalls, check; MacArthur Highway glowing in roadside lanterns, check; start of simbang gabi and the lighting of the giant Christmas tree tonight, all check. It is really Christmas time in Bulacan.

Bulacan, headed by Governor Wilhelmino Alvarado and guest of honor Health Secretary Enrique Ona, will light the 35-feet high Christmas tree tonight in front of the Capitol building.

The giant Christmas tree is made of intricate bamboo arcs called singkaban and is adorned with 300 star lanterns, and topped by a 2.5-feet tall star.

Alvarado said the activity aims to put Christmas closer to the hearts of Bulakenyos and to remind them of the essence of humility shown by the birth of Jesus Christ in a stable.

Provincial administrator Jim Valerio said this year's concept of the entire holiday decor is eco-friendliness as the materials used were recycled.

According to the Provincial Public Affairs Office (PPAO), a fireworks display will follow the lighting which will be witnessed by more than 700 Bulakenyos including local chief executives from towns and cities of the province, non-government organizations, college and high school students, and employees of the provincial government.

"As the Christmas tree reveals its true beauty and colors, the Capitol's night sky will be alive and colorful as well with dazzling, colorful fireworks display," said PPAO in a statement.

This fireworks display is also pursuant to the call of Ona in patronizing a pyrotechnics presentation rather than the individual lighting of firecrackers. The Department of Health is advocating the Aksyon: Paputok Injury Reduction program which aims to cut firecracker-related injuries from last year's 972 cases.

Indigent Senior Citizens in the Philippines

2011-12-18T19:47:00.001+08:00

by Lito Dar

More indigent senior citizens are set to benefit from the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) Social Pension Program this coming year.

DSWD-Cordillera Regional Director Leonardo Reynoso said DSWD plans to expand the government's Social Pension Program to more indigent senior citizens nationwide and hopefully, to also bring in other elderly, whose age are lower than current 77 years old minimum age requirement.

Reynoso said they are targeting to bring the number of beneficiaries to 7,000 indigent senior citizens from the present 3,566 beneficiaries. This, however, depends on the 2012 budget appropriations that will be approved by Congress for the said program.

Based on DSWD central office statement, the DSWD has a proposed budget of P1.2 Billion for 2012 to benefit some 185,914 indigent senior citizens, or 46,954 more than this year's 138,960 beneficiaries.

In the Cordillera, a total of P14,281,100 has already been disbursed to all the program beneficiaries in the region.

The social pension program has 1,005 indigent senior citizen beneficiaries in Abra; 440 in Apayao; 72 in Baguio; 563 in Benguet; 363 in Ifugao; 600 in Kalinga and 526 in Mt. Province.

The Social Pension Program, as provided for under Republic Act No. 9994, also known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act (ESCA) of 2010, provides a monthly assistance or subsidy of P500, given on a quarterly basis on the pre-identified beneficiaries who are indigent senior citizens who are frail, sickly and disabled, without any regular source of income and/or support from any member of the family, and not receiving other pension benefits from government and private agencies.

Laws protecting the rights and welfare of women

2011-12-18T19:44:00.001+08:00

by Maritess B. Beñas

The 18-day end violence against women campaign in the province which started last November 25 culminated on December 12 with the conduct of a symposium on the various laws protecting the rights and welfare of women.

The symposium was attended by the officers of the municipal chapters and the municipal focal persons for Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina(KALIPI), and the policewomen in charge of the Women's Desk at the Abra Provincial Command and Bangued Municipal Police Station.

Noemi B. Bachiller, the provincial focal person for the KALIPI and women concerns of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), discussed the various laws governing the protection of the welfare of women and children, they being the most vulnerable sectors of society.

The Philippine Information Agency, on the other hand, stressed the role of the community especially the law enforcers particularly the Women's Desk Officers of the PNP in preventing human trafficking.

There are cases of human trafficking in the province, most of whom were children forced into labor and into prostitution. However, due to the concerted efforts of the concerned agencies in monitoring the illegal activities, the proliferation of child laborers and minors working in red houses have been neutralized.

The symposium also accommodated the Department of Education in advocating for the propagation, consumption and processing of malunggay, tagged as the "miracle vegetable" as popularized by Glorifina Mangoltag, the Nurse-in-Charge in the DepEd-Abra Division Office.

DPWH Project in Leyte, Philippines

2011-12-18T19:43:00.001+08:00

by Bong Pedalino

The provincial government here will acquire a piece of land to be used as a relocation site for families who will be displaced by an upcoming widening project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the city.

There is an ongoing negotiation with the provincial assessor and the owners of the lot, located in barangay Lib-og, this city, for the purpose.

Teopisto Rojas, lawyer and chairman of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP)Committee on Education and Social Welfare, said each relocated family can be assigned at least a 300-square meter lot.

More than 60 poor families whose houses lie along the edge of the national road in barangays Mantahan and Mambajao this city will be affected as soon as the DPWH starts implementing its drainage canal project next month which was also a way of widening the city's streets.

Bidding for this project which cost about P 4.5 million, is expected to be held today, according to District Engineer Carlos Veloso in previous interviews with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

Rojas said the informal settlers in the city will not be the only ones to benefit from the planned acquisition of lot by the provincial government, saying that those living in a mangrove area in barangay Ichon, Macrohon, will also be considered to be relocated.

Importance of liquidation of government funds

2011-12-18T19:42:00.001+08:00

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez

The Social Welfare Department during a recent dialogue with state auditors, accountants highlighted the importance of liquidation of government funds, in line with the President's call for transparency.

Thirty-three auditors from the Commission on Audit (COA), 72 municipal accountants and three supervisor accountants participated in a dialogue initiated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) held in one of the local hotels here.

DSWD Information Officer Narrabelle Bue said in implementing government programs, it is important to have common knowledge and understanding of the COA Rules and Regulations and to strictly implement the rules as expected.

She said that liquidation of program funds downloaded to the local government units is also essential as the president is bent on promoting transparency in the government bureaucracy.

"The local government specially their auditors and accountants are involved because the DSWD downloads to the LGU the funds specially on social pension, supplemental feeding and rice subsidy," Bue explained.

Bue said the dialogue was aimed at orienting the participants on the guidelines and principles of procurement and financial management system, auditing rules and regulations and to have a unified knowledge of the rules so as "to avoid delays and lapses in the implementation of DSWD projects like rice subsidy, social pension, supplementary feeding and the like."

Pensioner in the Philippines

2011-12-18T19:40:00.001+08:00

by Alex A. Lumaque

About P5 – million worth of social pension has been allocated by the administration Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III for the pay-out to social pensioners in the province.

Based on the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) – Field Office here, there are about 1,255 identified beneficiaries of the Social Pension Program for 2011.

The amount covers the last semester of the year except for the 405 pensioners who will receive their P6,000 pension from January to December.

Each pensioner is entitled to a monthly stipend of P500 on a quarterly basis, as mandated the Republic Act No. 9994 or the "Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010."

Eligible for the program are senior citizens aged 77 years old and above, frail, sick or with disability and without pension or permanent source of income or regular support from relatives to meet their basic needs.

DSWD 6 – Field Office Public Information Officer Eliseo Abucay said that the identification of beneficiaries were based on the DSWD's National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR).

Last May, Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Soliman also led the ceremonial pay-out of social pension to senior citizens at the Governor's Hall of the Provincial Capitol here.

Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH)

2011-12-18T19:39:00.001+08:00

by Venus G. Villanueva

Some 70 indigent patients confined at the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) will receive gift packages from the Provincial Government of Aklan.

According to Jesebel M. Vidal, Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point Person here, the gift-giving will be conducted December 16, to be led by Governor Carlito S. Marquez, Honorary Chairperson of the Aklan Gender and Development Commission (AGADC) and Engr. Roger M. Esto, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator and Vice Chairperson of AGADC.

Marquez and Esto will also be joined by Men Opposed to Violence Against Women Everywhere (MOVE) Aklan Chapter in the gift-giving activities.

MOVE-Aklan has been a partner of the AGADC with the aim to eliminating VAWC in Aklan for several years now.

Identified gift recipients are indigent women and children confined at the Charity, OB and Surgical wards of the hospital.

"The recipient-patients will be receiving towels, blankets and mosquito nets," Vidal said.

Development in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

2011-12-18T19:38:00.001+08:00

Tawi-Tawi Gov. Sadikul Sahali hailed the Aquino administration for allotting P1 billion to the province, out of the P8.5-billion stimulus fund it programmed to hasten development in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

"We are very grateful to President Aquino's administration for providing our province a share of P1-billion from the P8.5-billion stimulus fund for ARMM. The amount will propel our efforts in bringing our province to greater heights," Sahali said, after learning from officials of the Aquino government about his province's share.

Sahali added that the P8.5 billion stimulus fund allotted for the autonomous region under the "ARMM Transition and Investment Support Plan" is derived from the P72 billion saved by the current national leadership from cancelling project contracts under the past regime.

The saving is now termed as a national stimulus package of the Aquino administration, he said.

"Thank you, Mr. President, for your concern and kindness to us. The provincial government and the people of Tawi-Tawi is so grateful for the P1 billion allotted to improve our province's socio-economic condition," Sahali said.

He said that all the projects lined up under the P1 billion stimulus package are geared towards poverty alleviation and improvement of the socio- economic condition of the province, which is known to be the country's poorest zone.

According to him, the provincial offices of DPWH in Tawi-Tawi got P240 million; Department of Health, P140-M; Department of Agriculture, P91-M; Department of Science and Technology, P3.6-M; Department of Interior and Local Government, P80-M; Department of Transportation and Communications, P30-M; Department of Energy, P200-M and their Electric Cooperative, P200-M.

Sahali said the projects funded out of P1 billion will greatly help his province and its people, adding that implementation of the development programs will also provide additional employment to his constituents.

Gift-giving and feeding of 600 families

2011-12-18T19:37:00.001+08:00

Some 600 families in three barangays in three municipalities of the province of Leyte benefited from the Pamaskong Handog 2011 of the Army's 19th Infantry (Commando) Battalion and 82nd CMO (Busilak) Company in coordination with the provincial government.

Held on December 14, the activity was a simultaneous gift-giving and feeding of 600 families in barangays Mahawan of Kananga, Tinaguban of Carigara ,and Tabangohay of Alang-alang, all in Leyte province.

According to 1st Lt. Philip James Hocson, Civil-Miltary Operation officer of 19th IB, the Pamaskong Handog 2011 is a joint initiative which aims to alleviate the condition of indigents and revitalize the Filipino's tradition of gift-giving and sharing during yuletide season. Priorities of the said activity were indigents residing in remote barangays.

Receiving food packs and warm arroz caldo distributed by soldiers is not a common scenario in Brgy. Mahawan of Kananga, Leyte. But for the constituents of Brgys. Tinaguban in Carigara and Tabangohay in Alang-alang, gift-giving is an ordinary venture rendered by the soldiers.

It may be recalled that the 19th IB, in coordination with the Kiwanis Foundation International (KFI), handed out school supplies (notebooks, paper, pens, pencils, and sharpeners) to 133 pre-elementary and elementary pupils of Brgy. Tabangohay on September 28.

Likewise, three boxes of assorted medicines were dispatched for Brgy. Tinaguban during the launching of the Army-led Pamaskong Handog 2011.

Lt. Col. Cabugon, Commanding Officer of 19th IB expressed his gratitude for the support extended by the provincial government of Leyte who co-sponsored the month-long activity.

Substandard and Toxic Toys

2011-12-18T19:36:00.001+08:00

The Department of Health – Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga regional office warns the public on the health hazards that can be acquired on substandard and toxic toys.

Giving gifts especially toys to children this holiday season is already a practice by most Filipinos that is why the DOH is providing tips and warnings to the public in order to a have safe celebration and to avoid the bad effects to one's health.

The DOH suggested that in buying toys, buyers should check on the packaging and look for the following information: License to Operate (LTO) number; name and address of licensee; recommended age of child; and warning signs.

Based on the DOH advisory, a good toy is also characterized by the following: suitable to the child's physical capabilities, mental and social development; appealing and interesting to the child; and well constructed, durable and safe for the child's age.

Also, DOH-Caraga cites the Do's and Don'ts in toy safety, like, checking the labels on the packaging and observe precautions appearing in the labels to ensure the safety of the child; ensure that the child will play with a toy suited for his/her age under adult supervision; dispose plastic packaging accordingly and keep it out of reach of children; for children under age three, do not buy the following toys: balls with a diameter of 1.75 inches or less so as to prevent chocking; that easily breaks into small parts of pieces like glass or brittle plastics.

Furthermore, toys containing small detachable parts or pieces which could become lodged in the throat; with sharp points and edges; with electrical parts, unless supervised by an adult; with parts that could pinch or entrap fingers, toes or hair; with parts put together by straight pins, sharp wires or nails that are exposed and easily detached are not advisable for children under age 3.

Provincial Road Network Development Plan

2011-12-18T19:35:00.001+08:00

Gov. Sol Matugas led recently the 2nd Provincial Development Council (PDC) meeting to update the members of the latest developments in the various programs and projects and programs in the province.

Among the topics discussed are the revised Provincial Road Network Development Plan (PRNDP) CY 2011-2014, Provincial Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks, plans and programs of the National Housing Authority, Mindanao Rural Development Program, updates on the presentation schedule of market values of lands and Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS).

The PDC, which is the highest policy-making body of the province, is chaired by Matugas.

The PDC also discussed the worsening drug problem and electric power shortage in the province. The body agreed to invite the people from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA-13) and National Power Corporation to discuss the two priority matters in the next PDC meeting.

In attendance were the regular members of the council like the municipal mayors, national agencies, provincial offices and non-government organizations, it was learned.

Christmas vacation for public elementary and secondary schools

2011-12-18T19:32:00.001+08:00

The "no collection policy" will still be observed in all public schools in line with the holding of Christmas parties, according to the regional office of the Department of Education here in Western Visayas.

In a radio interview, DepEd 6 Regional Director Mildred Garay said the "no collection policy" still applies even during Christmas parties.

In case there are contributions, these must be voluntary and if these were decided upon by the Parents-Teachers Association, no teachers are allowed to do the collection activities. The collection should be done by the parents and outside the school premises.

"Definitely teachers should not collect fees, to avoid complaints later," said Garay.

She likewise confirmed that the start of Christmas vacation for public elementary and secondary schools is on December 21 and classes will resume on January 3, 2012.

Executive-Legislative Agenda Assessment and Monitoring Seminar-Workshop

2011-12-16T13:00:00.001+08:00

by Jay Vincent V. Demain

In its overall performance last year, the province got a very high rating.

This was revealed during the Executive-Legislative Agenda Assessment and Monitoring Seminar-Workshop held recently at Davao City attended by the provincial government officials and department heads of the local government unit of this province.

The activity was aimed at evaluating the performance of the provincial government in 2010 and to identify what and how it has achieved its goals. This will also serve as basis for future plan of action for the next years to better serve the public.

The rating was the result of the State of Local Governance Performance Report (SLGR) by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for the province using the Local Governance Performance Management System (LGPMS).

The system covers five performance areas and 17 service areas. Performance areas are Governance, Administration, Social Services, Economic Development and Environmental Management.

On the other hand, service areas are composed of Local Legislation, Development Planning, Revenue Generation, Resource Allocation and Utilization, Human Resource Management and Development, Support to Health Services, Support to Education Services, Support to Housing and Basic Facilities; Peace, Security and Disaster Risk Management, Support to Fishery Services, Entrepreneurship, Business and Industry Promotion, Forest Ecosystem Management, Coastal Marine Ecosystems Management, Urban Ecosystems Management, Participation, Transparency, and Financial Accountability.

Export markets in New Zealand and Australia for their products

2011-12-16T12:59:00.001+08:00

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is encouraging local entrepreneurs and producers to explore the export markets in New Zealand and Australia for their products.

The DTI Provincial Office here said that these markets are looking for products such as gifts, decors and housewares and marine products and they also belong to the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Preferential Trade Agreement (AANZFTA).

ASEAN stands for Association of Southeast Asian Nations of which the Philippines is a member.

Under the AANZFTA arrangement, 96.4 percent and 84.7 percent of all products that may be imported by Australia and New Zealand, respectively, can enter their markets duty-free, according to the DTI website- www.dti.gov.ph. This means further reduced costs of doing business for Filipino exporters.

DTI-Iloilo said they facilitated a forum on Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTA) here last September to apprise local producers about export opportunities in the two ASEAN trading partners.

They said that local products have made it to markets in the United States, Japan and Taiwan, so it is high time that Ilonggo producers also ventured to other markets such as Australia and New Zealand especially, given the fact that they have preferential trade agreements, said DTI Iloilo.

Washing of chemical sprayers near rivers

2011-12-16T12:58:00.003+08:00

by Francisco R. Jayoma

Municipal officials of Carmen here are now prohibiting the washing of chemical sprayers near rivers, penalizing those who will violate. This is according to Municipal Ordinance No. 20-2011 authored by Sangguniang Bayan Member Leobel Tomas Luis.

According to the said ordinance, sprayers within the town of Carmen are now strictly prohibited to wash any kind of material being used in spraying pesticides and insecticides for plants specifically mango and/or throw empty containers of poisonous chemicals near the river, creek, sea, brook, deep well, open well, jetmatic hand pump and in any source of potable water supply.

"It is imperative to protect the health and well-being of the community by inculcating proper attitude and instilling discipline in the disposition of waste and garbage," Vice Mayor Wilfredo Taglucop said.

Taglucop tasked Municipal Agriculturist Nimfa Fernando to conduct information dissemination to all mango sprayers of this town regarding the provision of the said ordinance.

For her part, Fernando said it is necessary to ensure health safety of the people as well as to uphold environmental environmental safety of the community. She added that their office will conduct a seminar regarding the proper handling of materials used in spraying plants and fruits especially mango and also throwing of empty containers.

Small and Medium Enterprise Development (SMED) Congress

2011-12-16T12:58:00.001+08:00

by Flor Jackson

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)- Biliran, jointly with the Biliran Provincial Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Development Council (PMSMEDC) conducted a one-day Small and Medium Enterprise Development (SMED) Congress on Tuesday, December 13 at the Naval State University (NSU) Audio-Visual Hall in Naval, Biliran.

The provincial SMED congress, which was attended by businessmen in the province; heads of national government agencies; officers and members of the Biliran PMSMEDC; and NSU students was aimed at promoting the programs, activities, and projects (PAPs) of the government line agencies that nurture the growth and development of the micro small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the province.

Likewise, the provincial SMED congress aimed at providing a venue for the government and private MSME development stakeholders to interact and build up mutual understanding of its distinct roles in the PAPs for the development of the MSMEs.

The activity, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. was attended by Elmer Garado of the Small Business Corporation (SBC) for Region 8, and local representatives of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Bureau of Fire Protection who talked about the functions of their respective agency functions in connection with the development of the SMEs in Biliran province.

Tiburcio Morales Jr. co-chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC) in Eastern Visayas who is also the Biliran PMSMEDC co-chairman and private sector representative in his message, acknowledged the role and contribution of the businessmen in the development of the province.

Morales who represented Biliran Governor Gerardo Espina Jr., PMSMEDC chairman said that strong coordination and cooperation among the members of the business sector, and the concerned agencies will led to the growth of more SMEs in the area.

Development of Caraga Region

2011-12-16T12:57:00.001+08:00

by Robert E. Roperos

Abante Mindanao (ABAMIN) Party-list Representative Maximo Rodriguez, Jr. on Thursday vowed to continue supporting the city government here for the development of the city and the entire Caraga Region.

In a press conference held at the City Mayor's conference room here, Rodriguez said that part of the pork barrel he is receiving will go to the Mindanao Rural Development Project (MRDP). He added the city of Butuan, through Mayor Ferdinand Amante, was able to receive some P1 million for the development of infrastructure projects.

Rodriguez also said the province of Bukidnon as well as in Surigao were also given appropriate budget for infra development.

He emphasized that part of the infrastructure development is the construction of drainage systems that will benefit majority of the people in Mindanao. He said he is happy to note that the city government of Butuan is also pushing for Solid Waste Management System which is in-line with the plans and programs of ABAMIN.

The official also stressed ABAMIN is also supporting the infrastructure development on school buildings as he believed that this is one of the factors in providing quality education to pupils and students in Mindanao.

For ABAMIN, Rodriguez believed that Mindanao is the "Tiger Economy" of the country.

"Mindanao will be the place where food in the country will be sourced out… We are the food basket of the country so infrastructure development on agriculture must also be prioritized," he said.

Rodriguez further said he will be pouring in more infrastructure projects along Butuan and Surigao corridor especially developing roads such as asphalt overlaying and road concreting that will bring more development to Caraga Region.

Firecracker and pyrotechnic products trading zone

2011-12-16T12:56:00.003+08:00

by Alex A. Lumaque

The Roxas City government has designated an area along Primer de Mayo St. near the foot of the Roxas City Bridge as this year's firecracker and pyrotechnic products trading zone, in line with the Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations.

Roxas City Fire Marshal C/Insp. Lester Kenneth Gimotea said that a fire truck will be positioned in the area as one of the preventive measures against fire incidents especially that the merchandise are very combustible and explosive in nature.

The BFP also requires firecracker retailers to use metal or iron materials in putting up stall partitions.

"If they have completed their paper works, they can start constructing their stalls," Gimotea said, adding that about 75 individuals have attended two separate sessions on fire safety at the Roxas City Fire Station last Nov. 25 and 28, respectively.

The lecture on fire safety is one of the important requirements among firecracker retailer applicants who also underwent an orientation from the Department of Trade and Industry, PNP and Roxas City Licensing Office last month.

However, Gimotea said not all those who attended the fire safety lecture will individually establish a stall as some will venture into the business in groups.

Abante Mindanao (ABAMIN) Representative Maximo Rodriguez Jr

2011-12-16T12:56:00.001+08:00

by Robert E. Roperos

Following the power crisis that the entire island of Mindanao is experiencing since last year, Abante Mindanao (ABAMIN) Representative Maximo Rodriguez, Jr. is advocating "Power Mindanao."

Speaking before the local tri-media during the press conference held Thursday at the City Mayor's conference room here, Rodriguez said he is supporting the withholding of the selling of Agus-Pulangi Plant.

He also said congressmen in Mindanao are also supporting for the suspension of selling the said 700-megawatt hydropower complex to the private sector.

He added if this will be sold out, this will drastically increase the price of electricity. "We don't have to sell Agus-Pulangi," Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez also emphasized that he also considered talking with Aboitiz Corporation for the installation of small hydro-package mill. He said the current of the rivers is enough to operate the turbine.

"We have Agusan River here and this may possibly be a good location for the installation of a turbine… there's no need to have a dam anymore… the water current will allow the turbine to work," he said.

The official further said considering solar power system is Mindanao is a good alternative for electricity. He said this is the only cheapest power source. "We hope we can also bring in solar power in Mindanao because that is the only cheapest source of power we can have," Rodriguez said.

PAG-IBIG Penalty

2011-12-16T12:55:00.001+08:00

Delinquent borrowers and unregistered employers are given a six-month period for the condonation of penalty by the Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-Ibig Fund starting January 1, 2012 until June 30.

Per HDMF Circular No. 399, the program shall cover employers who did not enroll their employees with Pag-IBIG and those that did not also collect membership contributions.

These employers may apply for penalty condonation on the employer's counterparts' contributions of those coverable employees, according to Anthony Maglungsod, officer-in-charge assistant department manager for operations.

However, those employers who have previously availed of any penalty condonation offered by the Pag-Ibig Fund and employers who collected membership contributions and/ or STL amortizations from their respective employees but failed to remit the same to the Fund cannot avail of this program, Maglungsod added.

Employers, unregistered and existing, who wish to avail of the program are required to register with the Fund through its Online Employer Registration System prior to applying for penalty condonation not later than June 30, 2012.

Upon application for penalty condonation, employers are required to remit their contributions of current employees for the current remittance period and every month thereafter. Otherwise, the corresponding penalty chargers will apply.

The applications for penalty condonation is approved or disapproved not later than two months from the date of submission of the complete documents.

SME in the Philippines

2011-12-16T12:54:00.001+08:00

by Lanie Pitao-Tupaz

NAVAL, Biliran, Dec 15 (PIA) –- The micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country substantially contributes to the country's economic development.

This, said Celerina T. Bato, engineer and Director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Biliran provincial during the SMED Congress held recently at the Naval State University.

The congress was attended by members of the provincial Micro, Small and Medium Enterpise Development Council (PSMEDC), representqtives from the Small Business Corporation (SBC), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and businessmen from the province of Biliran. Bato disclosed that MSMEs contributed in the country's economy particularly in rural development and decentralization of industries, creation of employment opportunities and more equitable income distribution, use of indigenous resources, creation of backward and forward linkages with existing industries, and entrepreneurial development.

Bato added that the MSMEs whose capitalization ranged from P100 million and less represent 99.6 percent of the country's total businesses; 61 percent have provided employment, and 35.7 percent contributed to the value added of the country's economy.

These businesses are engaged in wholesale and retail, manufacturing, hotel and restaurants, real estate, renting and business activities, and other community, social, and personal service activities.

Of the 17 regions of the country, Eastern Visayas ranks 14th in the distribution of MSMEs in the country, according to Bato.

The first ever SMED Congress in the province of Biliran aimed at providing a venue for the government and private MSME development stakeholders to interact and build up mutual understanding of its distinct roles in the programs, activities, and projects for the development of the MSMEs.

Pag-IBIG Fund

2011-12-16T12:53:00.003+08:00

by Amor Saludar

In its 31st anniversary celebration bearing the theme, "Makabuluhan. Matatag. Maaasahan!" the Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF), otherwise called the Pag-IBIG Fund, pledged to continue their relevant, stable and reliable services to its members in Central Visayas.

Pag-IBIG Fund Visayas Group Vice President Victoria de la Pena cited the significance of the fund to its members during the recent Kapihan sa PIA.

"Pag-IBIG Fund is very relevant and important as we are there to meet the needs of the people especially on the areas of savings in preparation for their future and housing, a very basic need. We stress the importance of savings for a better future," de la Peña said.

De la Peña added that in 2001, they experienced a threat to the members' savings but that its officials and members became united in their efforts to prevent other people to use the funds.

"Also, during calamities, we open our doors to provide loans to our members in need," de la Peña further said.

She recalled that during previous calamities in Manila and some parts of Luzon, Pag-IBIG personnel from various branches nationwide augmented Manila personnel to fast track the facilitation and processing of loans to its affected members.

To continue providing efficient and sincere services to its members, de la Pena cited some of their major plans for 2012. These include adoption of modern technologies in order to make their services faster and the strict implementation in collecting loan payments.

De la Peña also said they plan to have a wider coverage that now includes household helpers and drivers among others and processing of loan applications via online.

Firecracker capital of the Philippines

2011-12-16T12:53:00.001+08:00

by Jose Mari M. Garcia

As the countdown to Christmas and New Year ticks, the Philippine National Police (PNP) warned that errant firework vendors selling banned explosives will face imprisonment and cancellation of their of business license.

In a visit to Bocaue town, known the firecracker capital of the country, PNP-Region III enumerated the illegal explosives which should not be sold pursuant to Republic Act No. 7183 which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.

PSupt. Rafmil Corpuz, chief of Fire and Explosives Division of PNP-Region III, said firecrackers with more than one-third teaspoon of gunpowder were outlawed for sale including pla-pla, tuna, bin Laden, big triangulo, super lolo, Goodbye Philippines, Goodbye World and the piccolo which is famous among children.

"Those who will be caught will be removed of their license, their products confiscated and they might not be able to renew their permit," said Corpuz.

Under the law, firecrackers which are allowed for sale include baby rocket, bawang, small triangulo, pulling of strings, paper cups, El Diablo, Judas belt, and sky rocket.

Among pyrotechnics, allowed are sparklers, luces, fountain, Mabuhay, Roman candle, trompillo, airwolf, whistle device, butterfly, and all lighting devices.

The republic act which was approved on January 1992 also allowed the use of watusi, a small reddish stick usually ignited by friction to produce a dancing movement and a crackling sound; but Corpuz said the Department of Health (DOH) banned its manufacture due to threat of ingestion among children.

PhilHealth for OFWs

2011-12-16T12:52:00.001+08:00

by Hazel F. Gloria

Individuals applying for health insurance coverage under PhilHealth's Overseas Workers Program (OWP) must be able to show proof of active status as OFW both upon registration and upon renewal of coverage.

PhilHealth Circular 19-2011 states that OWP covers active land-based OFWs while the sea-based contract workers are generally covered under the Employed Sector Program and the circular itemized supporting documents admissible for OWP registration or renewal.

Per Circular 19, PhilHealth accepts any one of the following (whichever is applicable): valid overseas employment certificate (OEC); valid e-receipt; valid work visa or permit; valid employment contract; valid company ID issued by the employer abroad; certificate of employment from current employer abroad; cash remittance receipt from the member abroad at least two months prior to the date of registration or renewal; other valid certificates or IDs issued to OFWs by a host country (e.g. Soggiorno for Filipinos working in Italy); or any other equivalent proof approved by an authorized PhilHealth officer.

PhilHealth also allows submission of photocopies or scanned copies, as the case may be, of the mentioned documents.

The agency also reiterates that the document submitted must clearly establish that the member is still an OFW, regardless of the number of days left in the validity period stated in therein.

OFWs who are unable to present the necessary supporting documents may instead register under the Individually Paying Program (IPP) and pay the corresponding premium for individually-paying members.

His or her member data shall only be updated under the OWP upon submission of the required supporting document.

Public school teachers in Philippines

2011-12-16T12:51:00.001+08:00

Public school teachers have started getting their Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI) as the Department of Education (DepEd) continues to monitor its regional offices nationwide to ensure that teachers receive theirs in time for the holiday season. The P10,000 PEI is commonly referred to as the Christmas bonus.

"As soon as we got approval from the Department of Budget and Management, our disbursing officers have started the processing of fund release. We had our implementing units prepare the required documents so when the funds are available, we can fast track payment to our teachers and personnel" said Education Secretary Armin Luistro.

The education chief said the department hopes to complete the release of the Christmas bonus to all teachers before Christmas day if no major hitch comes up.

As of December 15, Regions 1, 2, and 7 reported that all teachers in their respective regions have received their bonuses. Bicol Region (Region 5) has paid 95% of its teachers while 90% of teachers in Metro Manila (NCR) have already received their bonuses.

Release of payments to teachers are still on-going in Regions 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, Caraga, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and the National Capital Region (NCR).

Meanwhile Regions 4A, 4B, 8, 11, and 12 are processing the fund transfers and aim to pay teachers on Friday, December 16 or early next week. They received their cash allocations on Tuesday, December 13 while others received it the following day.

The DepEd in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is independently monitoring the progress of their payments.

"We are doing a round-the-clock monitoring in DepEd offices nationwide so that we can respond promptly in case there are delays in some areas," Luistro pointed out.