Difference between revisions of "Cagayan de Oro City News January 2016"

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==[[Oro HIV advocates meets Miss Universe]]==
{{:Oro HIV advocates meets Miss Universe}}
==[[SMC-GK Village becomes recipient of water system project]]==
{{:SMC-GK Village becomes recipient of water system project}}
==[[DOLE releases Php52.3 million for BUB projects]]==
{{:DOLE releases Php52.3 million for BUB projects}}
==[[UN launches agricultural programs at par with the ASEAN economy]]==
{{:UN launches agricultural programs at par with the ASEAN economy}}
==[[DOLE 10 announces employment programs for 2016]]==
{{:DOLE 10 announces employment programs for 2016}}
==[[DENR strengthens watershed rehabilitation in Northern Mindanao]]==
{{:DENR strengthens watershed rehabilitation in Northern Mindanao}}
==[[PNP focuses on tourism during 25th founding anniversary]]==
{{:PNP focuses on tourism during 25th founding anniversary}}
==[[Oro mounts photo exhibit for Pia Wurtzbach]]==
{{:Oro mounts photo exhibit for Pia Wurtzbach}}
==[[University opens 8th Cinemagis film fest: ‘Lucid,’ ‘Senyas’ lead nominations]]==
{{:University opens 8th Cinemagis film fest: ‘Lucid,’ ‘Senyas’ lead nominations}}
==[[Online registration for senior citizens' ID still ongoing]]==
{{:Online registration for senior citizens' ID still ongoing}}
==[[Asian delegates study PHL cooperative practices]]==
{{:Asian delegates study PHL cooperative practices}}
==[[Miss Universe 2015 Wurtzbach to receive Congressional Medal of Honor]]==
{{:Miss Universe 2015 Wurtzbach to receive Congressional Medal of Honor}}
==[[Oro gov't ensures to boost disaster monitoring]]==
{{:Oro gov't ensures to boost disaster monitoring}}
==[[4ID features ‘Lantad’ experience as peace through ‘Bayanihan’]]==
{{:4ID features ‘Lantad’ experience as peace through ‘Bayanihan’}}
==[[CDO IPs hold 2nd General Assembly]]==
{{:CDO IPs hold 2nd General Assembly}}
==[[CDO makes business permit processing easier]]==
{{:CDO makes business permit processing easier}}
==[[University lauds new associate ASEAN Industrial Engineers]]==
{{:University lauds new associate ASEAN Industrial Engineers}}
==[[Visit of Ms. Universe to boost the local tourism industry]]==
{{:Visit of Ms. Universe to boost the local tourism industry}}
==[[DENR - 10 conducts Trainor’s Training on El Niño]]==
{{:DENR - 10 conducts Trainor’s Training on El Niño}}
==[[USD800,000 grant to upgrade Cagayan De Oro water services]]==
{{:USD800,000 grant to upgrade Cagayan De Oro water services}}
==[[Misamis Oriental promotes booming tourism spots]]==
{{:Misamis Oriental promotes booming tourism spots}}
==[[Entrepreneurs expect Wurtzbach win to bring ripple of benefits to Cagayan de Oro]]==
==[[Entrepreneurs expect Wurtzbach win to bring ripple of benefits to Cagayan de Oro]]==


Latest revision as of 03:43, 19 February 2016

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Cagayan de Oro City within Misamis Oriental

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Public market of cagayan de oro city misamis oriental.JPG
Cagayan de Oro City Public Market
Cagayan de oro city river.jpg
The river of cagayan de oro city
Saint Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral cagayan de oro 01.jpg
St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral

Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.
Limketkai Center Mall, Cagayan de Oro City.jpg
Flood Waters in the streets of Cagayan de Oro City
Cagayan de Oro City buildings.jpg
Cagayan de Oro City Buildings
Terminal bus of bulua cagayan de oro city misamis oriental.JPG
Bus Terminal, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City

Oro HIV advocates meets Miss Universe

By Riain Alfonso

IT WAS a mere twenty minutes conversation, more or less, but it was worth it.

This is what Grey and Au said after their Manila trip to meet fellow Kagay-anon, Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach.

Both are Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) advocates and were invited by United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) Philippines to the HIV Forum held at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center (V. Luna General Hospital) last January 27, 2016.

Grounded, beautiful, and simple. This is how both described the reigning Miss Universe.

“Pag-abot niya, paglingkod niya, nawala ang akong kakulba. Mura bitaw dili nimo ma feel na Miss Universe ang imong ka-atubang. Ingon ana siya ka down to earth,” observed Au who said that Pia went out of her way to make them feel comfortable.

“I want to help spread awareness about HIV,” said Au, not her real name.

“Taas man gud ang rate sa discrimination and stigma. Tungod sa discrimination, ang uban people mahadlok na nuon ug pa test, mahadlok sila kung unsay hunahunaon sa lain tao. Mas maayo man gyud na ma-aware ang mga tao about HIV, at least ma-alter ilang negative na perception about the illness.”

The advocacy is very close to her heart as the illness has touched her on a very personal level and she herself experienced the discrimination.

“Hindi na man ako positive pero being involved with people na may HIV, tingin nila sa akin positive din. Maski yung mga anak ko, diniscriminate din.” Au’s husband succumbed to AIDS related complications. Luckily, she and her children are all negative. Her experience with the disease was the reason why she was asked to participate in the forum.

Au and Grey, a person living with HIV or PLHIV, were asked to be a part of the forum just days before the said event.

“At first, I was hesitant because there was going to be media,” said Grey. “Pero eventually na realize nako na there is a purpose ngano ako ang gipili. Naa koy daku na role, for me to inform and bring to her unsa gyud ang naa sa Cagayan de Oro, unsay gakahitabo. It’s a big opportunity, bahalag ingon adto lang ka-mubo ang time, to use my voice kay ingon ana man gyud ang advocacy.”

Grey said the invitation was for young HIV advocates. They were invited by Unicef Philippines to meet Pia and to talk about their stories and advocacies. Grey disclosed that there were five people who were invited to talk to Pia.

Each of them was asked to talk about certain topics related to the cause. Grey was asked to discuss the challenges of HIV advocacy in the local context while Au talked about discrimination and stigma.

The other panelists included Devine from Quezon City who talked about peer education, Nancy who discussed about injecting drug use, sex work, and mother to child transmission, and Jerson See who talked about MSM or men who have sex with men.

Nancy and Jerson are both from Cebu City and were representing Cebu Plus, an NGO that provides HIV and community support. Jerson is its executive director.

“The goal really was for Pia to know na young people gyud ang gaka-involved sa advocacy and para mahibaw-an niya unsa gyud ang current situation sa Philippines when it comes to HIV and AIDS,” said Grey adding, “Dili pa ingon ana ka deep iyang knowledge, dili pa ingon ana ka lawon ang iyang na hibal-an about HIV. She needs to know more pa and she has to kay mao baya iyang platform in winning the crown.”

Grey admits that they were not able to discuss the advocacy in depth because of time constraints with Pia’s visit.

“Siya gyud ang nag request na makigkita para makabalo siya unsa gyud. Makit-an nimo sa iyang interest sa pagpaminaw,” commented Au, who noticed that Pia, because of her schedule, was a bit tired and sleepy.

“Paglingkod niya para mustorya sa amo, siya gyud mismo ang miduol sa amo.”

She described how Pia would lean forward to get closer to the panelists and would reach out her hand to pat a knee and give comfort at times when the stories shared became too intense. She also noted that Pia asked questions whenever she was confused which only showed her innate interest to the advocacy.

Grey also felt Pia’s sincerity and that her willingness to help was genuine, “Makita nimo during the discussion. She’s really listening, makita nimo na naay eye contact. Mafeel nimo.”

hey were especially touched when, after one of Pia’s aides announced that their time with her was already up, Pia dragged her chair closer to them and asked them urgently, “Anong gagawin natin? What can I do? Anong pwede natin gawin?”

They explained to her the importance of educating not only the young people who are the most at risk but to educate everyone because everyone is vulnerable.

Both Grey and Au hope that she becomes the gateway toward educating other celebrities who can also be strong voices of the advocacy. The stress was really on Jerson’s call to action which is for everyone to get tested, “Nga dili ka hugaw kung mag pa test ka, it just means na responsible ka.”

Grey recalled that he almost cried when he heard Pia’s answer during the Miss Universe.

“Coming from someone who’s into pageants, artista, wala ko nag expect na sa tanan, mao iyang pili-on na advocacy. Kabalo gyud baya ta unsa na stigma ang attached sa HIV,” said Grey, who understands the pros and cons about choosing this cause for someone in the pageant industry.

He said that Pia will be able to understand the advocacy more if she gets more personal encounters with PLHIVs and hopes that if and when she visits the city, she will be able to spend time with the local HIV and AIDS advocacy groups.

He added that as Miss Universe and as someone coming from Cagayan de Oro, Pia’s impact in the fight against discrimination and in the promotion of education about HIV and AIDS should be felt greatly in the local scene.

SMC-GK Village becomes recipient of water system project

(ALR-CIO/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, January 28 – A water system project will be turned over to San Miguel Corporation-Gawad Kalinga (SMC-GK) Village Barangay Balubal in February.

This, according to estate management division officer-in-charge Floresa Sabuga-a in Cagayan de Oro.

She also added that the turn-over ceremony will be done either on the second or third week of February.

Around 500 residents in the said village will benefit from the water system project that will amount to P2.3 million.

It is the aim of the project to address the problem on the water supply in the relocation site.

Heminia Carbonell, one of the residents in the village, extends her gratitude to the local government with the latter’s immediate response to their basic need.

DOLE releases Php52.3 million for BUB projects

(PNA), LDV/CD

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 29 (PNA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Northern Mindanao has released Php52.3 million for Bottoms Ups Budgeting (BUB) projects in the region, a labor official said Friday.

Raymundo Agravante, DOLE regional director in Northern Mindanao, said the funds were distributed to 49 local government units (LGUs) in the region.

He said the goal of the DOLE is to develop and capacitate all LGUs and civil service organizations in the implementation of BUB projects in order to respond to the different needs in the communities.

"We expect that the participation of DOLE in the BUB program would generate employment as the department’s primary mandate,” he added.

Agravante said the DOLE BUB projects have financially assisted 14,464 beneficiaries in Northern Mindanao in 2015, which translate to 49 livelihood programs in the various provinces, cities and municipalities in the region.

The local government units have identified the BUB livelihood projects in their areas through a participatory planning and budgeting exercise, he said.

Agravante added the BUB approach is the first in the world where the participatory budgeting is implemented at the national level.

He said the BUB is recognized for its outstanding efforts to deepen citizen engagement in the budget process in the identification of urgent programs that the community needs.

UN launches agricultural programs at par with the ASEAN economy

(PNA), LAP/CD/MARK FRANCISCO

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PNA) -- The United Nations launched an agricultural program aimed at leveling the 11 agrarian communities in Mindanao into the standards set by the integrated Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) economy here five days ago, an official said Tuesday.

Country Representative Benoit Thierry of the UN International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), said that the project is known as Convergence on Value Chain Enhancement for Rural Growth and Empowerment (CONVERGE).

He said that the CONVERGE is a US$ 34.59 million project, which is expected to benefit a total of 300,512 farmers in Mindanao or around 54,628 households.

The project covers Region 9, which comprises the Zamboanga Peninsula, Region 10 comprising five provinces, and the Caraga Region with four provinces.

IFAD will assist the 11 communities through investment plan preparation, capacity building for the farmers, technology upgrading and diffusion, and cluster farming organization.

Thierry said that a business sector matching, extension services, quality control of the end products, credit/microfinance facilitation and post-harvest facilities and equipment are also part of the project.

“We will teach them certain cropping techniques to meet production targets, so they can be at par with the Asean standards,” Thierry said.

The Philippines had entered the integrated Asean economy just last year, he said.

The UN-IFAD has made its presence in the Philippines since 1978, bringing a total of US$ 244.4 million in 14 projects as an anti-poverty interventions. The project Thursday last week was the 15th, Thierry said.

DOLE 10 announces employment programs for 2016

By Nelia Quijano (JMOR/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, January 27 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) region 10 through the media forum, Talakayan sa PIA on 26 January 2016 announces various programs slated for this year to boost employment in the region.

According to Albert E. Gutib, Assistant Regional Director of DOLE region 10, there are various programs of the department to help curb the unemployment rate in Northern Mindanao not only in the formal sector but also the informal sector.

Based from the data of Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), in 2014 and 2015, the unemployment rate in Northern Mindanao remained steady at 5.8% while the underemployment dropped from 31% to 22.6%. Meanwhile, the employment rate is at 94.2%.

Gutib underscored that the sector seen to have the biggest chunk of unemployment is the youth sector.

One of the programs the department is continuously advocating is the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) wherein poor but deserving students and out-of-school youths (OSYs) intending to pursue their education by encouraging employment during summer, Christmas vacation or any time of the year for students in the tertiary, technical or vocational level may work with pay.

Qualified students may work for a minimum of 15 days and a maximum of 52 days. He also noted that employers will pay 60% of the total salary of the student and the other 40% will be subsidized by DOLE.

Another program that DOLE is advocating is the Jobstart program through applying at the Public Employment Service Office (PESO). Right now, Cagayan de Oro City is the only one implementing in the region.

The beneficiaries of this programs are the youth, in partnership with Local Government Unit (LGU) of Cagayan de Oro City, Asian Development Bank, and Government of Canada. Furthermore, the beneficiaries will be trained three months and will be deployed at any offices and agencies for internship for another three months.

Gutib also invited those who wanted to avail the livelihood program through the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP) in the five provinces of region 10 particularly Malaybalay Bukidnoon, Villanueva, Kauswagan High-way in Cagayan de Oro, Iligan City, Oroqueta City and Mambajao, Camiguin. He noted that the allocation budget for this program is P35 million.

For the enforcement of labor standards, Gutib said that the joint assessment is still on going where 22 labor laws compliance officer are in charge of the evaluation. He also said that the approach of DOLE this time is developmental and any deficiency of the establishment, the department will give enough time to correct and assist the employers and workers.

Meanwhile, Atheneus Vasallo, chief of the Technical Support and Services Division said that DOLE is also supporting community based livelihood. This is the Emergency Employment or Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD). This is a packaged assistance that provides emergency employment for displaced workers, underemployed and unemployed poor.

Interested individuals or groups who want to avail of DOLE's programs may visit their regional office at Monte Carlo Building, RER Phase 1, Kauswagan National Highway, Cagayan de Oro City or call them at (08822) 727682.

DENR strengthens watershed rehabilitation in Northern Mindanao

(PNA), LAP/CD/ERCEL MAANDIG

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PNA) -– The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Northern Mindanao is embarking on a program to strengthen the rehabilitation of watershed areas in the region, a senior official said Tuesday.

Ruth Tawantawan, DENR regional director, said that the seven-year program known as IntegratedNatural Resources and Environmental Management Project (INREMP) would focus on the rehabilitation of various river basins in the region.

Tawantawan cited the Upper River Basins in Bukidnon consisting of six rivers, which watersheds need to be rehabilitated and be made sustainable.

The program aims to reduce and reverse watershed degradation and associated environmental services caused by forest denudation and unsustainable farming practices, she said.

She said that the project is particularly focused on the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and resource-poor communities within the identified watershed areas in Northern Mindanao.

Tawantawan said the project also aims to provide incentives to the local communities and local government units.

The INREMP was the product of the DENR watershed characterization and vulnerability assessment, which was completed in 2015.

She said the INREMP incorporated the Watershed Management Investment Plan of the six watersheds comprising the Upper Bukidnon River.

PNP focuses on tourism during 25th founding anniversary

(PNA), LAP/CD

CAMP ALAGAR, Cagayan De Oro City, Jan. 25 (PNA) -– The regional police command here focused on tourism during the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Monday.

Police Supt. Gervacio Balmaceda, the police regional spokesperson, said that the officials from the tourism agencies were the invited guest of honors during the annual celebration.

Balmaceda said that the police have shifted to tourism and security as the major focus this year in line with the thrust of the national government in the promotion of the tourism industry in the region.

Catalino Chan III, regional director of the Department of Tourism (DOT) in Northern Mindanao, said that the DOT would continue to train the police on Tourism Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOP-COP).

He said that TOP-COP is a nationwide program of the DOT in collaboration with the PNP aimed at providing a safe and secure environment for domestic and foreign tourists.

The government would establish a 24-hour tourist office in places where there is “high movement of tourists” that need an enhanced police visibility that would provide security contingencies, Chan said.

Balmaceda said that the day-long founding day celebration was capped with the wreath-laying at the entrance gate of the regional police command here in honor of 1Lt. Vicente Alagar after whom the police regional camp was named.

Alagar died in a display of impeccable courage and gallantry in defense of the then makeshift military camp while fighting the insurgents in 1932, Balmaceda said.

He said that Alagar was represented by daughter Henrietta Alagar Pascual and granddaughter Anna Felicia Alagar during the wreath-laying ceremony.

Oro mounts photo exhibit for Pia Wurtzbach

By Pamela Jay F. Orias

TO GIVE Kagay-anons an idea of the Queen’s journey to the world’s grandest crown, the City Government mounts a weeklong photo exhibit in honor of Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach featuring the work of a world-renowned photographer Jory Seriña Rivera.

The exhibit, which kicked off at Limketkai mall Saturday afternoon, was put up as a tribute to Wurtzbach’s triumph in the Miss Universe Pageant in 2015.

In an interview with Rivera, he said the photo exhibit would showcase Wurtzbach’s road to the crown, from her screening as candidate for Bb. Pilipinas way back in 2013 up to her first day as Miss Universe in New York City.

Rivera said he was amazed with Wurtzbach’s one-of-a-kind determination and perseverance to achieve the crown.

“In my interview with Pia after she won, I asked her what people can learn from her journey, she said to never give up so that’s the reason for this exhibit. Aside from celebrating her victory, I want the people to see her journey on how she worked hard to fulfill her dream through my photos,” Rivera said.

He said he wants to give the people more depth of Wurtzbach’s story than that they see in televisions, read in the newspapers, and hear over the radio.

“By now, everyone is familiar with her story that she joined Bb. Pilipinas three years in a row, tried her luck again in 2014 but went home empty-handed then gave herself a last crack and finally winning it,” he added.

Rivera is a photographer of the OPMB Worldwide, a pageant website known dedicate in covering international beauty pageants.

Rivera narrated how he got excited when Wurtzbach, during the Bb. Pilipinas pageant, introduced herself as a native of Cagayan de Oro City, where Rivera also came from.

They then immediately ‘clicked’ and even found out that they were from the same school in elementary – Corpus Christi School.

Rivera was born in the city and was raise in Opol town, Misamis Oriental and studied his grade school and high school in Corpus Christi School in Macasandig and earned his degree in Economics at the Ateneo de Manila University.

“Pia joined three years in Binibini and I too was present in all the Binibini events to take photos, I got to know more about Pia along the way,” he said.

A pageant enthusiast himself, Rivera shared how he’s fond of covering international pageants and taking photographs of the most beautiful ladies in their respective countries.

To name a few, Rivera has covered Miss Universe 2010 in Las Vegas, Miss World 2011 in London, Miss Universe 2012 Las Vegas, Miss World 2013 in Bali, Indonesia, Miss Universe 2013 in Moscow, Russia, Miss Universe 2014 at Miami, Florida and the latest, Miss Universe 2015 where Wurtzbach reigned, ending the country’s 42 years drought.

Rivera is working full time for Hewlett Packard as an IT professional and also a photographer for Broadway World covering musical theater shows in Manila.

Rivera hopes that Wurtzbach’s triumph will inspire Kagay-anons, ‘not only the beauty queens to join the pageants but everyone of us who dreams,’ he said.

“As Pia told me, let us be firm with our goals but flexible with our methods, we all have our own goals and we just have to be determined and focused.”

The photo exhibit is placed at Limketkai Mall’s 2nd floor, Activity Center, near Marks and Spencer and will run from January 23-30.

University opens 8th Cinemagis film fest: ‘Lucid,’ ‘Senyas’ lead nominations

By Stephen Pedroza (XUComm)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Among the official entries from all over Northern Mindanao, “Lucid” by Cloyd Winstanley in the senior category and “Senyas” by Kenneth Sabijon in the student set have secured nine nominations each in the 8th Cinemagis Digital Short Film Festival.

The nominees were unveiled during the opening ceremony at the XU Little Theater held Wednesday night.

“Lucid” follows the story of the protagonist named Phillip who grapples between the realms of reality and fantasy, while “Senyas” tells the story of Kagay-anons ravaged by the wrath of TS Sendong in December 2011.

After the presentation of nominees, this year’s film feature “Ang Nerseri” (The Nursery) by Victor Acedillo of Camiguin was shown to the audience, composed of professional and budding filmmakers, Cinemagis judges, XU faculty members, students and guests.

With screenings running until Jan 23 at the XU Little Theater and SM Cagayan de Oro Cinema 3, the eighth installment of Cinemagis presents three professional entries, ten student films, five Pi-length entries and the past films of Joe Bacus and Clark Cabantan.

Under the banner of Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts (XCCA), Cinemagis serves as a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their talents, skills and stories, contributing to the development of the filmmaking industry in Northern Mindanao. Since its inception in 2009, a number of films have already gone on to national independent film festivals and even to the international stage.

The members of the judging panel are Cinemalaya 2009 Best Screenplay Awardee and “Ang Nerseri” director Victor Acedillo of Camiguin; theater actor and director from Pagadian City Felimon Blanco; and Davaoeño filmmaker, musician and production sound mixer Arbi Barbarona, who will determine this year’s winners in their deliberation on Saturday morning.

The awards night will be held at SM City Event Center on Jan 23.

Online registration for senior citizens' ID still ongoing

(CIO/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) is inviting all senior citizens in Cagayan de Oro to use the current online registration for the processing of their identification cards or IDs.

Applicants will just have to log on through the internet and access the site: scidcagayandeoro.gov.ph.

The requirements of the said registration include scanned copy of birth certificate/valid ID/baptismal/marriage certificate, barangay certificate, 1x1 latest colored picture and signature specimen.

Within three working days upon approval, the ID will be available for release.

At present, the City Social Welfare and Development Office had already released almost 30,000 PVC- type senior citizens’ ID cards.

For more information, interested applicants will just have to call the OSCA landline number 857-3143 and mobile no. 09462812066.

Asian delegates study PHL cooperative practices

(PNA), RMA/CD/MARK FRANCISCO

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 21 (PNA) – Delegates of various agricultural cooperatives in the Asia Pacific tackle the “management best practices” as its major concern during the annual executive meeting here.

Orlando Ravanera, of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) in Northern Mindanao, said that 11 delegates from six countries in the Asia Pacific region,were all officials of the Regional Network for the Development of Agricultural Cooperatives in Asia and Pacific (NEDAC), had expressed interest in the success of cooperatives in the country.

W.I Khan, NEDAC program director, told the Philippines News Agency that most cooperatives in developing countries, Bangladesh, were run by “inefficient managers who lack the training capacity.”

Khan, however, said that the peculiar situation was not just limited to Bangladesh but even in more emerging economies such as Sri Lanka and even China.

“Sadly, this is the true state of “cooperatives” in other countries that we have visited. That’s why we need to address the problem,” Khan said.

MASS SPECC, the oldest and the biggest cooperative federation outside Metro Manila, makes Cagayan de Oro City the capital of the cooperative movement in the country.

The Cagayan De Oro-based First Community Cooperative is the biggest cooperative credit union in the country. And Coop Life Insurance & Mutual Benefit Services (CLIMBS), which is also from here, is the largest of its kind in the Philippines.

It is for these facts that NEDAC decided to hold its annual executive meeting Cagayan De Oro, Ravanera said.“We are interested to learn about the best practices of cooperatives here,” Khan said.

He said that the executive meeting was not only on sessions, but also with tours around agricultural cooperatives in Northern Mindanao.

NEDAC has over 300,000 cooperatives under its fold with a total of 30 million members. They are located in Bangladesh, China, India, Nepal, Thailand and the Philippines.

Miss Universe 2015 Wurtzbach to receive Congressional Medal of Honor

(PNA), FPV/SFM

MANILA, Jan. 20 (PNA) -- Newly crowned Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach will be awarded with Congressional Medal of Honor next week after the House of Representatives adopted House Resolution 2583 on third and final reading.

The native of Cagayan de Oro City is expected to visit the House of Represntatives to receive the rare honor which is given to an individual who received international recognition.

The resolution, authored by Cagayan de Oro City Rep.Rufus Rodriguez and his younger brother, Abante Mindanao Party-list Rep. Maximo Rodriguez, congratulates Kagay-anon (native of Cagayan de Oro) Ms. Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach for winning the 2015 Ms Universe pageant and designating her as Ambassador of Goodwill of CDO.

Wurtzbach is expected to visit the House of Representatives on January 26 and Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. will present her with the Congressional Medal of Honor together with the authors of the consolidated resolution.

The new Miss Universe is scheduled to visit her hometown, Cagayan de Oro on January 29, 2016 and she will be warmly received by the Rodriguez brothers and other officials who will roll out the red carpet for her.

The half German beauty is the third Miss Universe of the Philippines. She followed the footsteps of Gloria Diaz (Miss Universe 1969) and Margie Moran (Miss Universe 1973).

Oro gov't ensures to boost disaster monitoring

By Pamela Jay F. Orias, Jigger J. Jerusalem

THE City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) in Cagayan de Oro City has taken its mission to a new level as it joined on Tuesday in a forum to learn the operational ways of its new forecasting and warning system.

Through the Northern Mindanao Project (NMP), an undertaking hatched by National Disaster Management Institute (NDMI) in partnership with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services (Pagasa) and the CDRRMO, a number of apparatuses programmed to warn the city’s communities of any impending flashfloods had been installed in various areas.

The Korean Government has helped the city fend off floods since 2014 when it donated Intelligence Closed Circuit Television Camera (CCTV) with a remote controlled boat, rain gauge and alarm monitoring system.

“This [project] strengthens our relationship with South Korea, a relationship that has grown stronger, not only at the national level but also at the local level,” Moreno said in an interview at the sidelines of the commencement of operationalization of two weather-monitoring systems held in the city on Tuesday.

The third phase of the NMP, Moreno said, will integrate all of the city’s weather-related surveillance of flood, water, rainfall levels that would warn residents living near the river to move to safer ground.

“Before we had so many projects happening at the same time concurrently, and now this program, this project gives us a good opportunity to consolidate all of them so that we can make use all of them and put them in appropriate locations. In other words, maximization of resources is allowed and resource allocation is also made possible,” Moreno added.

In 2013, FFAS and ARWS were put up, respectively, at the Pagasa weather station in Barangay Molugan, El Salvador City, and at strategic areas along the river and at the city hall.

This year, another set of flashflood alert system (FFAS) and automatic rainfall warning system (ARWS) were installed in Cagayan de Oro and Iponan river basins.

Doctor Chichun Lee, NDMI principal researcher, said the flashflood alert system is a 24/7 monitoring system designed to forecast the flashflood through the use of real-time data and hydraulic-hydrological analysis in target areas.

The FFAS is a 24-hour monitoring mechanism that forecasts flash flood and disseminates warning based on hydraulic-hydrological analysis in target areas, while the ARWS is a real-time set of devices that aids in facilitating the evacuation of residents giving them enough time to move out before a flash flood could occur, according to the NDMI.

The ARWS, on the other hand, is also a real-time based system which includes rain gauge, water level gauge, and warning post to secure evacuation time before a flashflood would occur.

"With these new systems, the city can now issue warning of flashflood, expected to help the public evacuate efficiently," Lee said.

Last year, the FFAS went through its advancement stage as ARWS for the Cagayan de Oro and Iponan rivers were integrated.

CDRRMO weather monitoring chief Vergil Lago said Cagayan de Oro is the only city in Mindanao chosen by the NDMI to boost its disaster monitoring capabilities.

"Because of typhoon Sendong gayud ni, nakita nila kung unsa ang damage na nabuhat niatong bagyo sa dakbayan, so we are very blessed," Lago said.

Immediately after Sendong in 2011, the NDMI sent a group of experts to the affected areas to join an international joint damage investigation group.

Dr. Vicente Malano, Pagasa acting administrator, said water level gauging station and other facilities are also being put in place in Bukidnon so that any rise of water in the upstream area would immediately be relayed to the CDRRMO for appropriate action.

Anianita Fortich, Pagasa-Mindanao weather specialist, said the role of the state’s weather bureau is to issue a warning while the CDRRMO is charged with disaster response and rescue.

Dr. Keumho Oh, division head of NDMI’s Disaster Prevention Research Division, said he hopes the instruments donated to the city would last a long time so they could be used to reduce the risks and casualties during disasters.

Since 2005, South Korea has played an active role in disaster mitigation sitting as one of the countries involved in the Typhoon Committee’s disaster prevention subcommittee.

4ID features ‘Lantad’ experience as peace through ‘Bayanihan’

By Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat (JMOR/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, January 18 (PIA) – The 4th Infantry Division (4ID) Philippine Army (PA) through its meeting with key stakeholders in Northern Mindanao on 14 January 2016 in Cagayan de Oro City showed that working together to achieve peace is possible such as the success in Lantad, Balingasag Misamis Oriental.

Major General (MGen) Oscar T. Lactao, 4ID commander PA said that the Internal Peace Security Plan (IPSP) of the army is a collaboration with various stakeholders to work together to attain peace. He said, there can be no development without security and to attain security and development, we must adhere to human rights and rule of law.

In a presentation from the 4ID, it was showed that in the 70s, the place of Lantad in Balingasag Misamis Oriental was the regional headquarters of the New People’s Army (NPA). However, through government intervention such as delivery of basic services, people were able to get livelihood opportunities, earn their income and even children were able to go to school and pass the National Achievement Test.

Patterned to Bayanihan, 4ID’s mission is to conduct support operations in collaboration with the Civil Authorities to assist the stakeholders create and environment conducive to sustainable development and a just and lasting peace.

Bayanihan activities in 2015 included second peace caravan with a theme, “Nagkahiusang Nasud alang sa Kalinaw” (One Nation for Peace), in Lianga and Marihatag, Surigao del Sur. Energization project in Lantad, Balingasag Misamis Oriental dubbed Light for Peace which signalled the entry of electricity in the area which can enhance the productivity, information and education infrastructure for its residents.

Meanwhile, 4ID also supported the Customary Judicial Procedure by Tribal Leaders and Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) in Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte. Further they also supported the peace walk and gathering in the observance of International Day of Peace in Cagayan de Oro City.

LTC Romualdo Raymundo B. Landingin GSC (INF) PA said that the IPSP Bayanihan is a community level effort wherein the activities are focused to facilitate local government units (LGUs) to win peace, know community concerns and serve as ambassadors. This would also foster understanding and generate ideas and sustain convergence of stakeholders.

In terms of Lumad killings, the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) should make the call, said Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno and chair of RPOC. Government civilian should be in the front line since the Lumads or Indigenous Peoples are the easiest candidate for recruitment. He encouraged the various stakeholders to win the hearts of the people in far flung areas. He said agencies of the national government must combine in the delivery of services to these areas.

Finally, he said we need to reach out, military will follow.

CDO IPs hold 2nd General Assembly

(CIO/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Almost 200 Indigenous People (IP) from 16 barangays of Cagayan de Oro participated in the second General Assembly held on January 15 at Balay Mindanaw Training Center at Patpat, barangay Lumbia.

One of the resolutions passed by the group is asking a request for the establishment of an IP Office at the City Hall.

On the other hand, City Social Welfare and Development officer Teddy Sabuga-a is optimistic that the mayor will grant their request the soonest possible time.

City Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) director Jane Docallos and former vice governor Norris Babiera attended the said event.

The theme centers on, "Pakiglambigitay, Pagtimbayayongay ug Pagtinabangay (Involvement, Cooperation, Mutual Help).”

CDO makes business permit processing easier

(CIO/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- To ensure fast, prompt and efficient processing of new applications and renewal of business permits at the Business One-Stop Shop at the Cagayan de Oro City Hall, the City Treasurer’s Office has come up with easy steps and procedures on how to secure a new business permit or renewal.

Taxpayers can also take a look on how to use the touch screen, user-friendly kiosks, the first-of-its-kind in the country, when getting queuing number for tax payments, billing and assessment, securing a cedula, traffic citation payment, among other features.

For convenience, technology-savvy clients can simply access the city’s official website: www.cagayandeoro.gov.ph to get online billing on real property tax, business tax and business tax assessment. Downloadable business permit application forms are also available.

The city likewise introduced new innovations on tax payments by applying the mobile money payment system wherein Globe/TM subscribers can use their GCash account to pay their taxes and other fees, with just a click of their fingers on their mobile phones.

University lauds new associate ASEAN Industrial Engineers

(XU)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, January 13 - Xavier University garnered a 100% passing rate in the 7th Industrial Engineering Certification Examination with eight new Certified Industrial Engineers (CIEs).

The eight new CIEs are also designated as Associate ASEAN Engineers (AAEs). They are Benjamin M. Chan III, Louis Allan O. Cuarteros, Alyssa Iris V. Jariol, Dariel S. Palasan, Rupert Marionne S. Nellas, Deme Rose A. Santos, Bonn Kleiford D. Seranilla, and Bryan J. Timaan.

The Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineers (PIIE) through the Industrial Engineering Certification Board administered the said exam on 6 December 2015.

“Congratulations to our new XU CIEs and AAEs! We thank Engineering Dean Hercules R. Cascon, Industrial Engineering Department Chair Glenn B. Paclijan and the Engineering faculty and staff for the guidance and support they have provided our students,” XU president Fr. Roberto C. Yap SJ said in his message to the academic community.

Out of the 452 takers from different schools all over the country, only 336 successfully passed the exam. The national passing rate is 74.33%.

According to PIIE, the certification “helps promote a clearer public awareness and understanding of the role of the industrial engineers in society, to aid in ensuring that fellow IEs perform their services in a manner which recognizes as paramount public health and safety … and polishes one’s reputation as a qualified industrial engineer,” responding to the needs of the ASEAN Economic Community.

This achievement came on the heels of the recent Nursing Licensure Examination results where XU ranked among the top performing nursing schools in the country with a 100% passing percentage and the declaration from the Commission on Higher Education, recognizing XU’s Agriculture program as a Center of Excellence, and the Chemical Engineering, Literature, and Biology programs as Centers of Development.

Visit of Ms. Universe to boost the local tourism industry

(PNA), FPV/CD

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 14 (PNA) – The visit of Miss Universe 2016 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach would boost the tourism industry in this seaport capital of Northern Mindanao, a lawmaker said Thursday.

Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, of Cagayan De Oro City, made the statement after the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc., (BPCI) has approved the trip of Ms. Wurtzbach to visit here on Jan. 29.

He said that about 300 journalists from around the world would be accompanying Pia Wurtzbach, the third Filipino to win the coveted Miss Universe Crown since its inception in 1952.

Rodriguez said that the BPCI management has generously scheduled the visit as “CDO Homecoming” so Pia could feel the love and pride of her fellow Kagay-anons.

The lawmaker appealed to set aside politics during the visit and suggested that the local government officials (LGUs) meet Wurtzbach at the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental.

From the airport, the hosting officials would bring Wurtzbach to the San Agustin Cathedral for “Te Deum Mass” prior to a motorcade around the city, Rodriguez said.

He said that the LGUs would prepare a program for her at the sprawling Pelaez Sports Center to be witnessed by thousands of Kagay-anons.

Rodriguez said that the LGUs would then tender a sumptuous lunch to honor Wurtzbach and finally, give her a memorable send-off at the airport.

The visit of Wurtzbach would be timely to also showcase the Kagay-anon hospitality and show the whole world that Cagayan de Oro is a peaceful, friendly, clean and a highly developed urban center.

Rodriguez said that the city is a host to a remarkable tourism destinations such as the white water rafting, the Mapawa Nature Park, Malasag Eco-Village, Gaston Park and the historical water tank, the San Agustin Cathedral, the City Hall and the historic Plaza Divisoria.

He said that the excitement over Ms. Wurtzbach scheduled visit here is now building up.

DENR - 10 conducts Trainor’s Training on El Niño

(PNA), FPV/CD/ERCEL MAANDIG

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 13 (PNA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Northern Mindanao conducted a Trainor’s Training on “Mitigating Measures in Response to El Niño Phenomenon in the province.

Lina Galvez, the DENR spokesperson in Northern Mindanao, said that the training also aimed to equip the NGP Extension Officers, Bantay Gubat and other DENR employees in the Provincial/Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices (PENROs/CENROs) in responding effectively during the occurrence of the forest fire, which is one of the effects of the El Niño phenomenon.

One of the measures, which the DENR is adopting, is the vigorous implementation of the National Greening Program (NGP) and protection of the forests in the provinces of Lanao Del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental and Camiguin, all parts of the Northern Mindanao region.

Topics discussed included vulnerabilities of NGP Plantation and its importance to inclusive growth, People’s Organization Mobilization/Organization of firefighting brigade, firefighting techniques, and reporting and documentation of NGP.

Galvez said that the participants discussed the action plan for the strategies, schedule, responsible persons, fund and activities to be conducted.The effects of the El Niño phenomenon include reduced rainfall, which may lead to drought, stronger typhoons, and higher risk of forest, bush, and grass fires, Galvez said.

USD800,000 grant to upgrade Cagayan De Oro water services

(PNA), FFC/CD/MARK FRANCISCO

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 13 (PNA) -– The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is assisting the main local water utility here to recoup from its gargantuan losses due to perennial leakages of its pipes.

In a memorandum of agreement signed Wednesday in partnership with the Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, the local Cagayan De Oro Water District (COWD) would get a USD800,000 grant for the water district to carry out hydraulic modeling and repair its leaked pipes.

Leaked water pipes drained the COWD of about 80,000 cubic meters of water daily or 49.5 percent of what the water district produces.

“The daily water losses is unacceptable,” Ladele A. Sagrado, the COWD spokesperson, said, citing that the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) allows only, at least, a 20 percent non-revenue water.

In the agreement, the grant also covers technical assistance for waste water reduction strategy and implementation, mapping an updated geographic information system database and as well as an updated district metered area design.

Sagrado said that a survey of all facilities and customers within the focus areas will first be conducted to update existing records in order to update the COWD’s database.

The survey includes tagging of watering meters and ultimately leading to the laying of new pipes. Engineering works would be undertaken by Miya, a global leader in optimizing urban water efficiency.

The fund would be taken from the “USAID’s Be Secure Project,” a Philippines-specific program aimed at strengthening the water sector regulatory reform in the country.

Part of the fund or PHP458 million would be also be loaned from the government-owned Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP).

Sagrado said that the role of the Coca-Cola Foundation is to use the total volume of water saved to offset its own commercial water consumption and reduce its water footprint.

She said that the COWD expects to reduce the non-revenue water by 30 percent once the project is completed in 2017.

The signing of the agreement Wednesday was witnessed by USAID Philippines director on environment Jeremy Gustafson, USAID’s Be Secure Project chief of party Mona Greiser, Coca-cola Foundation Philippines president Cecilia Alcantara and the Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Catalina Cabral.

Misamis Oriental promotes booming tourism spots

By Nelia Quijano / JMOR (PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO (PIA) – The Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental continues in its campaign “Explore MisOr” by welcoming the New Year with Kuyamis Festival, an annual event which highlights the core product of the province which is coconut.

During a live interview in Lambo Dyes, a radio program of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) region 10 at DXIM Radyo Ng Bayan on 8 January 2016, Misamis Oriental Information Officer Allyn Auxtero Peñalosa said that this year, the province is celebrating its 86th Foundation Anniversary and 3rd Kuyamis Festival at the Capitol Grounds.

Peñalosa said that the province has two hot springs, two white islands and 70 waterfalls. She added that Governor Yevgeny Vicnente “Bambi” Emano discovered that Misamis Oriental has potential tourism spots that will definitely make it boom in tourism.

She said that once the tourism industry be developed and become stable, even with local officials replaced, the industry will continue and make progress for the province and everybody.

Two of those Misamis Oriental aspiring tourism spots are the Agutayan White Island and Sagpulon Falls which is currently being developed.

Agutayan White Island which is located in Jasaan has its Watch tower where Giant Clamps can be seen. With the help of STEAG State Power Inc., a power producing company in the province, the Watch Tower adds more attraction to tourists.

Another is the Sagpulon falls which is also located in Jasaan. It is already in its 82% completion with its function rooms and cottages for the visitors.

Misamis Oriental received a National award, where it sits fifth among the top 10 coconut producing industry in the Philippines. Also, in year 2017 Kuyamis Festival will be accredited as National Festival not only here in Misamis Oriental but also internationally.

Kuyamis Festival with Ordinance Number 133-14 is the official Festival of Misamis Oriental every first week of January


Entrepreneurs expect Wurtzbach win to bring ripple of benefits to Cagayan de Oro

(Associated Press)

Italpinas Development Corp. (IDC), one of the Philippines’s top corporations with impressive development projects, has congratulated newly crowned Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach and expressed hope her dramatic victory would bring about ripple of benefits to Cagayan de Oro City, where she grew up.

Wurtzbach, whose father is German, was born in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg. She moved to Cagayan de Oro, where she attended kindergarten at Kong Hua School and primary school at Corpus Christi. She speaks fluent Cebuano (Visayan), English, German and Tagalog.

Businessmen in Cagayan de Oro have expressed hope it’s not only their homegrown beauty queen who will catch the attention of the world, but their bustling economy of this city, as well. IDC Chairman and COO Romolo Valentino Nati, an Italian architect, said the spotlight on Wurtzbach has led businessmen to believe rays of opportunities will also shine brighter for this Misamis Oriental capital city. “The crowning of Cagayan de Oro’s pride and favorite daughter Pia as Miss Universe is sure to generate a ripple of benefits for the city, particularly in terms of tourism and investments,” Nati stressed.

IDC, a sustainable and design-driven real-estate development firm, has delivered on its commitment to complete the Tower B of Primavera Residences, its flagship development in Cagayan de Oro City, before year-end and turned over the condominium units to their rightful owners last December 16.

“Italpinas aims to build in alternative locations with real housing demands and where a sustainable green modern design brings innovations that offers quality and Italian lifestyle to the upper-middle class of the Philippines,” Nati said. “The company’s flagship project, Primavera Residences, is the first of its kind in Cagayan de Oro City and is setting the bar for condominium projects in the area with its modern Italian design infused with eco-friendly architecture with its second tower units already turned over,” IDC President Atty. Jose D. Leviste III added.

IDC’s series of milestones and achievements have made the company even more stable. Its achievements include its confirmed reputation as builder of one of the first IFC EDGE-certified condominium projects in East Asia, and its successful listing at the Philippine Stock Exhange, Tower B of its twin tower—Primavera Residences here has recently been turned over; Tower A is now nearly complete and will be ready for turnover shortly. IDC’s sustainable designs have already been widely recognized by prestigious international organizations. The company, in fact, has bagged a number of awards in International Property Development in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Manila in 2014. Its Primavera City development project also in Cagayan de Oro City has been recognized and cited by the Climate Technology Initiative Private Financing Advisory Network as the “Most Promising Clean Energy Investment Opportunities” in 2013.

A mixed-use commercial-residential building, Primavera is sustainably built at the Cagayan de Oro Pueblo de Oro Township, strategically located near SM Cagayan de Oro and major establishments uptown, including a call center. The building is built to maximize natural ventilation and light, and equipped with photovoltaic solar panels on its rooftop.

The complex also has a green inner courtyard that helps mitigate the high temperature year-round. Its cantilevers, likewise, create shadow effects on the condo units from the sun’s direct radiation with a dramatic decrease in temperature. These are just a few of the building’s special features that will help its residents save more than 20 percent in energy costs.

IDC believes nature holds the answer to sustainable design. Taking a cue from Mother Nature herself, the company strives to develop self-sustaining, flood-free and earthquake-resistant structures which are inspired by the beauty and functionality of nature. These green structures fuse human technology with the best that nature has to offer.

In 2008 the National Statistical Coordination Board declared Cagayan de Oro as “The City of Golden Opportunities” with its vast agricultural lands and coastal areas that facilitate easy trade and convenient transit to Luzon and other islands in the Visayas.

Aside from its superior agricultural advantages, CDO is also dubbed as the auto-hub of Mindanao with major automobile showrooms, including Honda, Mitsubishi and Toyota, dotting the Iligan-Cagayan de Oro-Butuan road.

Ayala Land Inc. invested P5-billion pesos in instituting a multi-establishment, “mini-Glorietta” in the heart of the city in 2012. At present, the Centrio mall has over 44,000 square meters of leasable space.

Mindanao contributed 14.32 percent to the country’s GDP in 2013. CDO forms part of region’s economic hub, alongside with fishing industry giant General Santos City and Fruit Basket of the Philippines Davao City.

Tourism is also expected to boom soon in CDO, with its whitewater rafting assets. The city attracted half a million tourists in 2012, but 5.08% of the total were foreign visitors.

Business continues to hum in the city with the growth of its annual business registrations up by 45.22 percent from January 2014 to January 2015. Between January and March 2015, CDO registered 1,415 new businesses.

.2M devotees join ‘Black Nazarene’ procession in Cagayan De Oro

(PNA), JBP/CD

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 9 (PNA) -- Around 200,000 devotees from the Visayas and Mindanao joined the procession highlighting the annual celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene here Saturday.

Police officials estimated that the crowd has doubled over that of last year as venerating devotees continue to grow every year for the last six years since the “Black Nazarene” found a new home in this seaport capital six years ago.

The “left hand” of the replica of the life-sized “Black Nazarene” is an original part of the “Black Nazarene” in Quiapo, Manila, a parish priest said.

Msgr. Rey Monsanto, the parish priest of the “Nazareno Parish Church” located along the busy Claro M. Recto Avenue here, said he originally requested only a visit of the replica of the Black Nazarene from Quiapo during the Feast of the Black Nazarene here every January 9, of the year.

“I did not expect that an original portion of the “Black Nazarene” would be given to us to become part of the replica of the Black Nazarene here," Monsanto said.

He said the replica of the “Black Nazarene” in Cagayan De Oro City is recognized by Quiapo as the only one allowed outside Metro Manila.

Monsanto said that every year, the nine-day Novena, in preparation for the Feast of the Black Nazarene, here started on December 31 until the Feast Day of the Black Nazarene on January 9.

“A vigil at the provincial sports center is held on the eighth night to enable all devotees to have a chance to get near the Black Nazarene prior to the 10-kilometer procession on the Feast Day,” Monsanto said.

This year, the vigil was on Friday evening where thousands of devotees from Visayas and Mindanao trooped to the sprawling sports center along Velez Street here.

On Saturday, thousands of devotees joined the procession early morning as another thousand queue along the routes until the Black Nazarene was back to its Shrine at the Nazareno Parish Church along C.M. Recto here.

Police Superintendent Lemuel Gonda, deputy head of the Regional Police Strategy Management Unit, said the crowd swarmed at the start of the procession Saturday morning, filling the city’s major thoroughfares.

He said law enforcers have been placed on heightened alert as the local risk reduction management council deployed medical teams to respond to emergency calls.

Gonda said that there was no report of untoward incidents during the more than four-hour grueling procession.

“The observance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene here was peaceful and orderly,” Gonda said.

BIR urges taxpayers to file returns early

By Apipa P Bagumbaran (APB/BIR-RR16/PIA-10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) --- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is reminding all taxpayers to file their 2015 income tax returns (ITRs) early to avoid penalties and inconvenience due to late filing.

In a statement, BIR Deputy Commissioner Nelson M. Aspe appealed to taxpayers not to wait for the April 15 tax filing deadline.

He advised taxpayers to start preparing and submitting their annual ITRs and its accompanying schedules and attachments such as Financial Statements, Statement of Management’s Responsibility, BIR Form No. 2307 as early as January 2016.

He also reminded all manual and/or electronic tax filers or Accredited Tax Agents using eBIRForms and eFPS or the Electronic Filing and Payment System to download the latest version and start filing early to avoid technical difficulties or downtime of the system.

All BIR systems underwent its regular system maintenance in preparation for the tax filing season and year-end adjustment.

Taxpayers may visit the BIR website at www.bir.gov.ph, or call the BIR hotline at 981-888 for further details or assistance. They may also call the BIR Revenue Region 16 Office at (08822) 725-609 or 711-637 or visit them at the West Bound Terminal, Bulua, this city.

Bitan-ag Bridge to be completed next month

By Pamela Jay F. Orias

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Northern Mindanao has re-scheduled the completion of the Bitan-ag Bridge which started May 2015.

DPWH information Sandra Flores earlier said the completion date of the bridge along CM Recto was supposed to be on October 2015 but was reset to February this year for "uncontrollable" reasons.

Flores said the hold-up was also caused by the delay of the approval of the executive order necessary for traffic re-routing.

The construction was also repeatedly deferred due to changes of plans.

"Example ana is wala mag-expect na ma-igo ang underground pipes sa ilalom ana like anang mga telephone lines, sa tubig, sa electricity, so we had to revise the plan again," she said.

She added the weather situation in the city could also affect the construction.

"Unta gayud mapadayon na mu-uyon ang panahon para wala na'y undang ang atong pag-build aron na gayud madali," Flores said.

Roger Pino, 35, a jeepney driver, urged the DPWH to fast-track the completion of the project.

"Murag nakabantay ko taud-taud na gayud na diha hangtod karon wala pa gihapon nahuman. Unta dali-on na kay usahay magkagubot ang mga jeep raba gayud walay mu-give way," Pino said.

Meanwhile, traffic is being rerouted along the national highway in Barangay Bulua to make way for the building of bridge touted as the solution to flooding in the area.

The new span will be 1.1 meters higher than the existing highway while the bridge will be about 12 meters long. Flores reassured business owners beside the bridge that there will be no flooding in their area.

The construction work will raise the level of the road surface starting at the vicinity of Honda Cars and will end near the factory site of Vjandep Pastel in Barangay Bulua.

Flores said to counter floods, they have removed three culverts to let floodwater drain faster.

Flores earlier encouraged residents to be responsible with their trash, seen as the major reason behind perennial flooding.

She added that public utility jeepneys and trucks may now use the third lane which is now open for use.

"Murag ni-gaan na diha dapit tungod kay three lanes na ang gina-gamit," Flores said.

100,000 set to join the ‘Black Nazarene’ procession in Cagayan De Oro

(PNA), FPV/CD/MARK FRANCISCO

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 6 (PNA) – Everything is set as about 100,000 devotees are expected to join the procession during the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Cagayan De Oro City on January 9 here, organizers said Wednesday.

Cagayan De Oro City, the premier capital of Northern Mindanao, is the only city outside Manila allowed by the Catholic Church to hold the Feast of the Black Nazarene procession.

The Black Nazarene replica in Cagayan de Oro is the only one outside Metro Manila. The replica contained portion of the hands of the original Black Nazarene statue in Quiapo, Manila being revered by thousands of devotees from Mindanao and the Visayas.

As the Novenas at the Archdiocesan Shrine of the Black Nazarene at the “Nazareno Parish” along CM Recto Avenue began on December 31, local authorities expect about 100,000 devotees to join the procession as the Novena ends on the feast day on January 9.

On Friday evening, January 8, the statue of the Black Nazarene will be brought from its home shrine to the Misamis Oriental-operated Gregorio Pelaez Sports Center along Velez St.

According to Gerry P. Sabal III, the sports center manager, the idea is to allow the huge number of provincial devotees here who come even as far as the Visayas to pay homage to the replica of Manila’s Black Nazarene statue for an overnight vigil.

During the vigil, there will be prayers, worship songs and reflection sessions throughout the night to be capped by a Mass at 3:30 at dawn on Saturday morning, January 9.

Sabal said this is the second year that the local Black Nazarene statue is housed for a day at the Gregorio Pelaez Sports Center.

“I expect the main grandstand to be full to the brim during that moment. The capacity of the main grandstand is around 20,000 persons,” Sabal said.

During the event, the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) has strict instructions to frisk everyone who will be wearing caps and sporting backpacks in the area for security reasons.

After the dawn Mass on January 9, the traditional procession will start at 4:30 a.m. traversing Velez St., crossing the national highway, exiting right towards Julio Pacana and Gaabucayan and taking another right towards Agora before finally exiting back to the CM Recto Avenue and into the shrine.

There will be several Masses throughout the day. The concelebrated Mass is scheduled on Sunday at 9:00 a.m.

PESO bags awards from YEPA

By Nena de la Peña (PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, January 5 -- Cagayan de Oro City’s Public Employment Services Office (PESO) received five awards during the recently-concluded PESO Year-End Performance Assessment (YEPA).

The city’s PESO was adjudged as ‘Best in National Skills Registry Program’ (3rd award implementer), ‘Best in Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Integrated Livelihood Emergency Employment Program’ (DILEEP), ‘Best in Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) (highly urbanized city category, ‘Best in Job Fair Implementer’ and ‘Best in Job Placement Award (highly urbanized city category).

PESO Manager Kathleen Kate Sorilla expressed gladness for bagging the prestigious awards, implying that the said achievement was a product of hard work and unity among office staff and personnel.

PHP3B worth of infra for Cagayan De Oro bared

(PNA), JMC/CD

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 4 (PNA) –- Various national government offices had allocated a total of PHP3 billion for various infrastructure projects in the city’s second district here for the year 2016, a lawmaker said Monday.

Second District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said the biggest chunk went to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) with an approved budget of PHP2.6 billion.

The DPWH projects involving the construction of a “tourist-friendly” passenger vessel terminal at the Port of Macabalan here is worth about PHP300 million, Rodriguez said.

Another is the construction of the PHP1.2 billion “Skyway” that would traverse from the village of Patag in the west to the city’s J.R. Borja St. in the east, he added.

The proposed diversion road from Sayre Highway in Balubal toward the Laguindingan airport was also approved, Rodriguez said.

Other infrastructure projects include flood control along the Cagayan De Oro River banks and drainage system to prevent flooding in the city’s major thoroughfares during heavy rains.

The Department of Health (DOH) has also approved PHP300 million for the expansion of the Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) to make one of the biggest public hospitals in Northern Mindanao.

Rodriguez said the DOH has also allocated an additional PHP24 million for the construction of health centers in the city’s second district.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education (DepEd) also approved the release of PHP200 million for the construction and repairs of public school buildings in the district.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) also approved PHP40 million, on top of the PHP24 million approved in 2015, for the construction of farm-to-market roads in the hinter villages in the city’s second congressional district.

“While the city government has an approved budget of only PHP2.02 billion, the second congressional district has an approved budget of about PHP3 billion this year,” Rodriguez said.

Kuyamis festival of MisOr to open on Tuesday

By Alwen Saliring

THE province of Misamis Oriental will open the annual ‘Kuyamis’ festival at the Provincial Capitol grounds on Tuesday.

The week-long celebration will highlight cultural shows, competitions among municipalities, and the grand coronation of the Miss Earth Philippines-Misamis Oriental.

During the opening, several competitions will be held including a tableau dance contest, a coconut-themed booth competition, livestock and meat show, a cat and dog show, and a cultural activity in the evening.

Around 8 municipalities are slated to participate in the booth competition where they would showcase and display the products of their respective towns.

These are the towns of Balingoan, Medina, Talisayan, Jasaan, Laguindingan, Manticao, Naawan, and Initao.

The first prize would get P150,000, P75,000 for second, P50,000 for third, and P10,000 each as consolation prizes.

The province has allocated some P1.4 million from the tourism budget for the festival.

The coronation night of the Miss Philippines Earth-Misamis Oriental 2016 will conclude the festivities on January 9.

'Kuyamis' means a variety of golden colored sweet coconuts that are smaller in size than other coconut varieties.

These kind of coconuts are still prevalent in Misamis Oriental.

‘Kuyamis’ festival had its beginnings in 2013 during the term of Governor Yevgeny ‘Bambi’ Emano with the aim of promoting tourism in the province.

Emano aspires Misamis Oriental to be part of the tourism roadmap in the country, inviting tourists to visit and experienced the bounty and beauty of the province.

Foul play suspected in woman’s alleged suicide in Oro

By Alwen Saliring

POLICE authorities are looking into the circumstances of a woman’s alleged suicide inside a motel in Barangay Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City Tuesday evening.

The woman, identified as Lea Muñez, 18, and a resident of Danao Patag, Opol, Misamis Oriental, was brought by her live-in partner Roel Montebon, 42, resident of Tabok, Bulua in this city, to the hospital following her alleged suicide.

Investigators said Montebon left after taking the victim to the hospital.

Montebon and Muñez had been staying in the motel for about two months, according to an employee at the motel.

Victim’s friends also disclosed that the two had a misunderstanding before the Muñez’s death.

Authorities are still waiting for the results of the autopsy conducted by the Scene of the Crime Operatives (Soco) to determine the cause of the victim’s death.

Two intertwined kerchiefs were recovered in the motel room where the couple had been staying.

Investigators also recovered assorted drug paraphernalia in a garbage bin inside the room.

DAR-10 celebrates Christmas with elder

By Ressan Nash N. Alonto-ERS (DAR 10/PIA)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)—​The Department of Agrarian Reform Ladies’ Association (DARLA) celebrated Christmas with the elderlies from Sitio Macanhan in Carmen, on December 22, during their 2015 Social Amelioration “Adopt an Indigent Senior Citizen” program at the DAR-10 Regional Office.

​The event is part of DARLA’s social outreach in addressing concerns on the health and welfare issues of the elderly. DARLA conceived this social program to impart the practice of being persons for others, particularly to the elderly of Macanhan where the agency’s regional office is located.

​In her opening message, DARLA president Ester Salas talked about the event as a way of giving back to the senior citizens in the community.

Regional Director Faisar Mambuay, meanwhile, emphasized the spirit of Christmas as a way of sharing one’s blessings made more meaningful by giving to the elderly.

“Nalipay ko nga nianhi mo ug hinaot nga magkita pa kitasa sunod nga Pasko,” (I am pleased to see you here and I hope to meet you again) Mambuay told the 25 elderly in the audience.

The event was filled with many activities, including games and culminated with the exchanging of gifts donated by some DAR employees.

In her closing message, DARLA vice-president Amy Baiño expressed her thanks for the presence of the elderly guests in the event and said that she was happy that they had a good time.

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