Cagayan de Oro City News November 2015

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Interactive Google Satellite Map of Cagayan de Oro City
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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.

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Cagayan de Oro City Public Market
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The river of cagayan de oro city
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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
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Cagayan de Oro City Buildings
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Bus Terminal, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City

4Ps beneficiaries in Oro display their products

By Alwen Saliring

THROUGH the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), products created by Pantawid Pamilya (4Ps) beneficiaries were displayed at SM event center Monday, November 30.

Dubbed as "PaskuJuan" Bazaar and Festival, the one-day activity promotes the products of the beneficiaries in the five provinces of the region.

SLP regional program coordinator Glofelia Uayan said that the Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries were given opportunity to improve their economic status by opting to either get employed or engage in micro-enterprising.

“Mao ni sila ang tong nagpili sa micro-enterprise so gidisplay nato ilang mga products at a just price,” Uayan said.

Those who choose employment would undergo training with partner entities like the Skills Mastery Institute accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda).

Uayan said the project aims to improve the lives of the Pantawid beneficiaries by choosing a project to be assisted by DSWD.

DSWD would lend a capital to the group ranging from P5,000 to P10,000 to be returned without interest after the beneficiaries are already stable in the business.

“Magpili sila sa project nga ilang gusto in group or individual ang DSWD magpahulam capital and gatabang feasibility study and project development tapping DTI and other partner entities,” she said.

However, Uayan said that the program has encountered challenges especially when some projects and businesses started by the beneficiaries failed.

Other beneficiaries were apprehensive in involving themselves to the program fearing they might not be able to return the capital from DSWD.

“Ang uban mahadlok kay basin dili kabayad or dili kabalo mo-negosyo while ang uban kay failure sad kay usahay dili match ang ilang products sa market,” Uayan said.

But DSWD is consistent in assisting and motivating the beneficiaries through resource-based principle and teaching them on doing business.

DSWD also highlighted some successful projects which gained awards and recognition in the national exhibits.

DSWD Northern Mindanao assistant regional director for administration Aldersey Dela Cruz said that they are looking forward to continue the projects started by the SLP to help families who are member of the Pantawid program.

“As we continue in the project implementation ma-sustain and mapalambo ang project and of course mahibal-an nato na kay sa family mapaeskwela ang mga bata and other investment sa family,” she said.

Dela Cruz said they are optimistic to reach their goal for the beneficiaries: survival to self-sufficiency.

Climate change projections in CDO bared

(JCV/PIA)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – To better prepare the city for the projected changes in temperature and rainfall, the Be Secure Project of USAID downscales on November 26 the Manila Observatory (MO) Climate Change Projections for 2040 and 2065.

It is a project commissioned by the Water Security for Resilient Economic Growth and Stability (Be Secure) to push good governance and build local capacity for long-term water security.

Be Secure Project disseminated the global and regional climate change projections to help local stakeholders understand the climate risks that the city is going to face in the next decades.

Rochelle C. Coronel of the Manila Observatory noted that the mean daily temperature of Cagayan de Oro City may increase by 0.9-1.4 °C by 2025 and 1.5-2.4 °C by 2050.

She said that the rainfall is projected to increase in the near future. In the 2050s, the number of wetter than normal years will decrease and the number of drier than normal years will increase.

An increase in the frequency of days with intense rainfall (14mm/day and 180mm/day) is projected, and a reduced increase in precipitation in the 2050s is observed compared with 2025s during the rainy months.

Through this regional climate modeling, the participants composed of local government units officials, various government agencies and non-government organizations were able to analyze the potential impacts of climate change, specifically, in their water resources, its use and management and came up with priority climate actions.

56,000 signatures up for Pope's climate change petition

By Pamela Jay F. Orias

ABOUT 56,000 signatures were gathered by Kagay-anons to contribute to Pope Francis' climate change petition which aims to hit 20 million signatures worldwide.

Ada Estepa, Ecology Ministry Coordinator of the Archdiocese in Cagayan de Oro, encouraged some 1,000 participants during Saturday's Global Solidarity Climate March to take the challenge and pledge to commit toward a greener environment.

The event kicked off at Provincial Capitol grounds and stopped at Kiosko Kagawasan, Divisoria, where a short program was held.

"Nagmalipayon kita kay nakahatag kita ug 56,000 signatures alone dinhi sa Cagayan de Oro alang unta nga madungog sa mga lideres sa United Nations na mo-agree to stop carbon emissions immediately," Estepa said.

The Pope's climate change petition aims to pressure First World countries to drastically cut carbon emissions, which have been raising global temperature close to the dangerous 1.5 degree Celsius threshold.

"The world has reached an increase of a 1 degree centigrade temperature tungod ra pud sa atong kaugalingong binuhatan. We hope that we would not go beyond that 1 degree," Estepa said.

The petition will be handed over to world leaders set to take part in the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris, France, from November 30 to December 11 this year.

Dr. Raoul Geollegue of the Philippine Watershed Management Council predicts that should carbon emissions continue in the next two decades, the world would reach havoc.

Geollegue cited that 250 megawatts coal-fired power plants which, according to him, emit thousands of green house gases that can be carried by about 109,500 dump trucks.

"Sa mga dagko na ga-operate ug coal power plants, do not misinform the public. Once our temperature rise to 3 degrees, our water and food supply will be depleted, security will be threatened since mag-kinawatay na," he said.

He added that the world should stop developing their place if it is at the expense of Mother Earth.

Ester Olavides, assistant regional director of the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DENR 10) said they expand projects which see environmental development a priority.

"There are simple ways, we can start in our households, we segregate trash, or in our community, initiate a cleanup drive," Olavides said.

"We need to unite since this problem is not only a social but a moral issue, we must learn to discipline ourselves kay ang pagbag-o dapat man gyud magsugod sa atong mga kaugalingon," she added.

The Climate March was participated by students, climate activists, civil society organizations, interfaith groups, Indigenous Peoples in the city's hinterland barangays, and church groups, among others.

Religious leaders to join week-long peace celebrations

By Pamela Jay F. Orias

ABOUT 500 peace advocates will join the annual Walk for Peace on Thursday signalling the start of the Mindanao Week of Peace.

Mona Lisa Pangan, coordinator of Xavier University's (XU) Dialogue Ministry, said the yearly event aims to remind Filipinos of the importance to promote a culture of peace through constant dialogue and mutual respect between and among different religions.

The Mindanao Week of Peace is celebrated throughout Mindanao from the last Thursday of November to the first Wednesday of December.

All government agencies as well as civil society organizations in Mindanao are encouraged to initiate relevant and meaningful activities during the week-long commemoration, Pangan said.

In the city, civil society groups organized three major events to promote awareness among Kagay-anons.

"Ang una nato is ang Walk for Peace which we hope na unta na-aware ang mga tao na naa diay ingani ka significant na celebration karon. Then ang Interfaith Prayers for Peace, and Interfaith Basketball Tournament," Pangan said.

The Interfaith Prayers for Peace was participated by church leaders such as Datu Ontong Bisoy from the Higaonon tribe, Muslim leader Ustadj Amin Macalantong, Bishop Jollieh Petallo, and Archbishop Antonio Ledesma of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro.

A basketball tournament is also set to take place on November 30, which will be participated by Muslim imams, Higaonon Baylans, Roman Catholic priests, United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) pastors, Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) priests, and evangelical pastors.

"This is to show to the world and to celebrate the fact that true believers of all faiths are brothers and sisters working for peace and goodwill for all peoples," Pangan said.

"We have to remove that prejudices and engage into peaceful, spiritual discourses kay naa pay pag-asa ang Mindanao," Pangan added.

BPI launches ‘Make the Best Happen’ in Oro

(RA)

THE Bank of the Philippine Islands held the provincial launching of BPI’s institutional campaign, Make the Best Happen, at the Seda Hotel last November 25, 2015.

In a conference, which also served as ‘thank you’ party for the press, BPI unveiled their newest customer centric campaign with the goal of providing their clients with solutions that transform into ‘actual life and lifestyle choices.’

“Here in BPI we recognize not only the unique financial goals of our clients but the different jumping off points too. Mindful to this, we listened to what they are saying, know what they really need, and unravel their real aspirations in life,” said Isagani Saguindang, Assistant Vice President, in a speech he gave Wednesday evening during the media appreciation night.

“With their goals and needs on top of our minds, we help them assess what they have and together, we chart how to make things happen, whether for their dream travels, investment goals, education, or business ventures,” Saguindang said.

The Make the Best Happen campaign focuses on a needs-based financial planning where clients make decisions based on their life needs and goals. Clients create a priority list based on their aspirations and then make a personal financial assessment. BPI then helps its clients create a game plan based on their goals, budget, and financial assessment.

“As an institution with proven 164 years of banking leadership, we have a slew of products and services to choose from. But all these will not make sense to us if these will not be effective tools for attaining our clients’ financial objectives,” Saguindang furthered.

“This campaign is really not about BPI,” added Dana Patricia Solidum, Brand Building Officer, “But it is really about our clients. We really want to understand our clients more so that we can serve them better.”

She explained that the bank conducted massive research and that they were able to identify that Filipinos have six key areas of aspiration: travel, dining, shopping, health, future, and parenting.

A microsite, makethebesthappen.ph, devoted to the said campaign was also unveiled during the event. “Themakethebesthappen.ph is our web-based platform dedicated to helping you make the best things happen in your life,” said Solidum adding, “We all know that there are many things in life that we would like to happen but sometimes we just don’t know how because no one is guiding us or telling us how. We do not know that we all have the potential to actually reach that goal or make that dream come true.”

Solidum shared the site is not your typical bank site but instead has the look and the feel of a lifestyle website, “Every week, we do social listening to really find out what people are talking about in social media. From there, we create the articles.”

At the end of each article, the site provides BPI products that can serve the need, “We made it a point na hindi kami parang basta-basta nagha-hardsell ng any BPI product. We offer something that you might need.”

“Sharing financial advisories and customized financial solutions are what we do best in BPI,” said Saguindang, “With this campaign, we wish to underscore the basic and primary characteristic of BPI. In BPI, we make the best happen.”

During the event, members of the media were treated to entertainment by the band Vital Sign and were asked to participate in games. The theme of the games were based on the six Filipino aspirations previously mentioned such as Name that Travel Destination, Taste the City, The Price is Right, a calorie count game, Four Pics One Word, Jenga to the Future, and a puzzle game. Prizes were also raffled out including a Northface backpack, 5,000 pesos BPI gift cards, a Garmin watch, and a Seda overnight voucher.

Saguindang said, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge our media friends and partners for being a valuable partner to BPI throughout the years. BPI Cagayan de Oro has gone a long way and we would like to thank you for helping us fulfill our corporate mission.”

Dad urges business groups to hire licensed security guards

(PNA), LAP/CD/EDS

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 25 (PNA) -- A local official, on Wednesday, batted for establishments' compliance with an ordinance that requires the hiring of security guards to discourage commission of criminal activities.

City Councilor Edna Dahino, chair of the city council committee on trade and commerce, said that City Ordinance No. 12841-2014 mandates all high-risk business establishments to hire or engage the services of duly license security guards.

“While everybody’s excited and preparing about celebrating the Christmas season, all money couriers, those that cater to remittances, money changer shops, and others should consider the security of their businesses,” Dahino said.

Dahino said that everybody must be on guard because in a condition where people are living in squalid poverty, the lure of money is so strong.

“It is our duty to keep the would-be-criminals at bay not because of being tempted to commit a crime, but instilling the fear in the minds of committing a crime is the most important,” she said.

Dahino also urged the local village officials to help in the fight against all forms of criminality because the local police force needs everybody’s assistance to maintain peace and order.

Aside from banks, high risk business establishments include lending institutions, pawnshops, money changer shops, internet cafes, gasoline stations, lotto outlets, money couriers, and remittance centers, convenient stores, grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping malls, Dahino said.

She said that the local police has now also included schools as among places or establishments that are prone or susceptible to incidence of robbery and theft.

NorMin Best 21 for Gawad KALASAG Awards named

(EOR/PIA-10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 24 – Twenty one (21) entries in northern Mindanao emerged as winners for 2015 Gawad KALASAG in northern Mindanao.

Seven regional winners emerged as placer to the national level: Lanao del Norte for Best Provincial DRRMC; Tubod and Bacolod towns in Lanao del Norte as Best Municipal DRRM (1st to 3rd Class and 4th to 6th Class respectively.

Ecosystems Work for Essential Benefits (ECOWEB), Inc. as Best Civil Society Organization (CSO); Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Regional Training and Teaching Hospital (MHARS RTTS, Ozamiz City, Best Government National Hospital; Our Lady of Perpetual Help Academy, Linamon, Lanao del Norte and Sacred Heart of Jesus Montessori School, Cagayan de Oro as Best Private Rural and Urban Schools.

Meanwhile, Cagayan de Oro City grabbed the Best City DRRM (highly urbanized city).

For Best City DRRM (component city), winners were Valencia City, Bukidnon (1st placer), Ozamiz City (2nd placer), and Malaybalay City (3rd placer).

Barangay Demologan, Bacolod, Lanao del Norte bagged Best BDRRM Rural Category.

Oro Rescue was likewise cited as champion in the Government Emergency Response Management (GEM) Basic Search and Rescue category.

Best Early Learning Center went to Barangay 18 Day Care Center, Gingoog City.

For public school urban, winners were Bukidnon National High School (1st placer) and Gusa National High School (2nd placer).

Public School Rural, Lala National High School (1st placer), Maranding Central School (2nd placer) and Salay Central School (3rd placer).

Regina Angelorum School of Villanueva, Misamis Oriental, Best Private Rural School (second placer).

Tagoloan Municipal Police Station for Heroic Act.

Gawad KALASAG is a nationwide search made to recognize excellent initiatives in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and humanitarian action.

The prevention and mitigation criteria cover the risk assessment, plans, policies, and budget, early warning system, risk financing, environmental management, and infrastructure resilience, while the preparedness criterion includes the mainstreaming of DRRM programs and projects, DRRMC organization, approved plans, capacity development activities conducted, and partnership mechanisms.

Meanwhile, the criteria for the GEM category include the degree of risk or danger to the life of the rescue group in doing the operations against the possibility of saving lives (natural or human-induced disaster/complex emergency), existence of operations center, training (availed of by the group or provided to a certain group of responders), and recognition from the community or any organization; or accreditation from higher level search and rescue organization.

Director Ana C. Cañeda, Office of Civil Defense and chairperson of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC), region 10, thanked during the 6th Monthly Meeting of RDRRMC the cooperating RDRRMC member agencies who were part of the Regional Selection Committee (RSC).

Cañeda underscored the importance of the role of local governments as frontliners DRRM.

University shares challenges, milestones at 8th ESP world confab

By Analyn B Mejares (XU Comm)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, November 23 -- The Valuing Ecosystem Services Together (VEST) of Xavier University, in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature - The Netherlands (IUCN-NL) shared the challenges, lessons and milestones of the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) project in Mt Kalatungan at the 8th Ecosystem Services Partnership (ESP) World Conference in Spier, Stellenbosch, South Africa on November 9-13.

XU vice-president for Research and Social Outreach Dr Hilly Ann Roa-Quiaoit presented the VEST experience as one of the panelists of the ninth session which centered on finding strong and useful arguments, and building bridges between research, politics and practice.

In a parallel session, Analyn B Mejares, VEST technical officer presented VEST as Disaster Risk Reduction – Climate Change Adaptation (DRR-CCA) and multisectoral rewarding mechanism during the Session T10: Co-investment approaches at the landscape scale.

The participants of both sessions lauded VEST for its ridge-to-reef landscape approach in watershed management, engagement with multisectoral stakeholders, sector-targeted social marketing and student volunteerism. Other participants of the international confab took note of the PES-VEST Operational Framework which is different from the usual PES framework, having added a fund manager and a monitoring and evaluation body in its system.

About 400 participants from 29 countries attended the international confab conference this year.

Established in 2008, ESP is a worldwide network that aims to enhance the science and practical application of ecosystem services. To facilitate the needed dialogue among scientists, policymakers and practitioners, academic institutions, global and community leaders and advocates, ESP organizes an annual international conference in different parts of the world.

This year’s theme “Ecosystem Services for Nature, People and Prosperity” placed the spotlight to public and private sector dialogue on how the ecosystem services concept can be used to support conservation, improve livelihoods and engage the business community.

The rehabilitation project in Mt. Kalatungan, Talakag, Bukidnon, built on research and community collaborations, has introduced to Northern Mindanao a “rewarding mechanism” where there exists “the seller” who protects and provides ecosystem services to “the buyer” who benefits from these intangible products.

The Miarayon–Lapok–Lirongan–Tinaytayan Tribal Association (MILALITTRA) serves as the seller in this project while different sectors — businesses, cooperatives, academic institutions, religious organizations and households in Cagayan de Oro City— are the buyers of the various ecosystem services, such as ensuring the streamlines along the region develop high water infiltration capacity and providing continuous supply of potable water, clean air and food, among others.

Xavier Science Foundation acts as the fund manager of the PES project in Mt Kalatungan. The accumulated fund will be used to realize the 5-year development masterplan of MILALITTRA in the areas of environmental protection, cultural preservation, youth development, and education and health services, among other aspects. Their Community Development Plan (CDP) targets to reforest 832 hectares and utilize 816 hectares for agroforestry within their ancestral domain.

SP to accredit lumad farmers assn

(JBD/CdeOSP)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 22 – The 17th City Council of Cagayan de Oro on its regular session on Monday is slated to act on the proposed resolution accrediting the Mambuaya, Bayanga, Agro Forest Lumad Farmers Association, Inc., for purposes of its membership in the Local Special Bodies (LSB).

This is pursuant to Department of Interior and Local Government Memorandum Circular No. 2013-70 and Article 64, Rule XIII of the Rules and Regulations Implementing the 1991 Local Government Code.

The application for accreditation was favorably endorsed by the City Planning and Development Office noting that it has complied with all the administrative requirements that would qualify the civil society organization for endorsement to the City Council.

This was reviewed and endorsed by the committees on agriculture and fisheries and on laws and rules chaired by Councilors Annie Daba and Ramon Tabor, respectively.

Cine Europa: A Window to Other Cultures

By Riain Alfonso

CINE Europa once again has opened its doors to movie lovers at the Rodelsa Hall last November 18, 2015. For its eighth year here in Cagayan de Oro, there are 21 films to be featured from 17 different European countries.

“This is actually the eighth year that we have held Cine Europa here in Rodelsa Hall and we are very happy that we have this relationship between the European Union and the Philippines,” said Owen Jaen Liceo U’s Director for Cultural Affairs, “We believe here in Liceo that appreciating culture, not just our own, but the cultures of the world is very important in the transformation, in our own human transformation. We would like to make our students and the community, through the films, experience the culture, the lives of other people and we appreciate that through these movies, we get to see how other people are in those particular countries. We get a glimpse, a taste of the European Culture.”

This is the 18th year that the film festival is being held, thus this year’s version has ‘Coming of Age’ as a theme. This year marks how Cine Europe has matured and grown with its carefully chosen thematic films. The festival is being shown in nine cities including Manila, Baguio, Iloilo, Cebu, Tacloban, Leyte, Zamboanga, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro.

Liceo de Cagayan University has been its partner since it first held the festival here in the City of Golden Friendship. Alain Marc Golez, executive vice president of LdeCU said, “Liceo believes in total human formation, so the formation of our students is not limited to learning in the classroom. With arts, with promoting culture, we feel that the formation of our students become holistic, therefore we can claim that the development of students in Liceo is complete. He furthered, “That is why we support activities like this because it is a window to other cultures. We have movies from Germany, from Slovakia, from the UK, and it is a window to what Europe is about, through film. It’s a good medium for learning and we have fun in the process.”

Cine Europa 18: Coming of Age in CdeO showcased movies from Romania (Nunta muta or Silent Wedding), Slovakia (Mrtvola Musi Zomriet or The Corpse Must Die), Spain (15 años y una dia or 15 Years and One Day), Bulgaria (Faith, Love, and Whisky), and Italy (Dillo con parole mie or Ginger and Cinnamon) to name a few.

It formally opened in the evening of the 18th with a cocktail followed by the showing of Die Legende von Paul and Paul (The Legend of Paul and Paula), a 105 minute film from Germany. Cine Europa will entertain Kagay-anons from the 18th of November until the 22nd.

“Events like these bring us to a higher degree of culture. It gives us a sense of connectivity with Europe, to be able to see their films, which we don’t get to see in a regular movie house,” said Dorothy Jean Pabayo, the city tourism chairperson, “It’s not always that we get this kind of opportunity, to get a glimpse of what is on the other side of the world through their movies.”

“We hope that there will be more projects and events and activities in partnership with the EU delegation here in the Philippines,” Jaen added.

Watershed council pushes plan for ecosystem sustainability in CDO

By Nelia C. Quijano (PIA)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – Present and future generations in Cagayan de Oro brace to a healthy and balanced ecology in the city.

The Executive Committee of the Agusan-Cugman Cluster of Watersheds Management Council (ACCWMC) has endorsed on 18 November 2015 the proposed Environment and Natural Resources Management (ENRM) interventions of the Balubal Integrated Social Forestry Farmers Association (BISFFA).

Forester Samuel M. Jumawid, technical editor officer of DENR’s Regional Project Coordinating Office (RPCO), said the project intends to increase economic condition of the upland communities and forest cover within Agusan-Cugman Watershed through agroforestry and reforestation, with a cumulative area of 61 hectares proposed to be implemented with Integrated Natural Resources and Environmental Management Project (INREMP) support in three-year period or until year 2018;

He further said the government recognizes the vital role of various stakeholders in the protection, rehabilitation, development, management, and utilization of the natural resources in watershed and river basins; hence the crafting of the proposal has involved the participation of national government agencies (NGAs), non-government organization (NGOs), religious sector, academe, local government units (LGUs), security group, Indigenous People (IP), peoples organizations (POs) and business sectors, and other stakeholders.

BISFFA, comprising a total of 121 households are the actual occupants of the area which possess tenure security over the area covered by Community Based Forestry Management Agreement (CBFMA) with total area of 250 hectares where ENRM subprojects shall be implemented.

Pablo M. Bactong, BISFFA president, said they are very glad for the favorable action to their proposal. This is not only benefit the Balubal’s officers but also to all the direct 121 household beneficiaries.

Among the direct benefits identified come from participation of members to do labor work and harvesting agricultural and timber products.

The implementation of the subproject seen to increase the likelihood of attracting additional possible markets for the people’s organization goods and services.

Meanwhile, ACCWMC was organized to promote the formulation of policies and programs in consultation with the stakeholders.

Further, it shall ensure that all projects submitted by participating agencies and peoples organizations for funding under the project are consistent with the overall environmental conservation and management framework of the concerned LGUs and watershed management plan.

It shall carryout also periodic monitoring and evaluation of projects being implemented by partner agencies, and keep track of progress of INREMP implementation within the Agusan- Cugman Cluster of Watersheds.

INREMP, on the other hand, is a seven-year-project that focuses on watershed as a management unit or area of operation. This is implemented through community-based approach with inter-agency supportive mechanism.

Likewise, this project is covered by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) which aims to reduce and reverse degradation of watershed, provides incentives to local communities, and enables improvement of natural resource management by generating sufficient and tangible economic benefits.

The government has adopted integrated watershed management as a national strategy for sustainable development per DENR MC 2008-05, Series 2008.

Oro McDonald rapid chess tilt, Nov. 21-22

(LLS)

ONE of the country’s leading food chains McDonald will treat Cagayan de Oro kids to a chess tournament here on November 21-22.

Dubbed as McDonald Youth Rapid 14-under chess tourney, it will be held at the 2nd floor of McDonald’s Divisoria branch just in front of Xavier University’s college campus.

Arbiter Jun Cuizon said the top three winners will receive P1,500, P1,000 and P500 plus trophies.

Entry fee is P200 inclusive of McDonald meals for two days, Saturday and Sunday.

“Convenient kaayo `ni nga padula sa mga bata kay air-conditioned ang place unya walay pasmo kay naay free meals,” Cuizon told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro.

The six-round Swiss System event will be played from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Time control is 10 minutes plus 10 seconds increment per move.

Interested parties may contact Mr. Cuizon and assistant arbiter William`Turko’ Reintegrado at the Provincial Capitol Chess Park.

Moro peace builders to highlight 6th Leaders Change Forum in Cagayan De Oro

(PNA), LAP/CD/ERCEL MAANDIG

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 18 (PNA) -— The 10 finalists of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) Triennial Awards for the Visayas and Mindanao areas will converge here on Thursday for the 6th Leaders of Change Forum.

The forum, hosted by RAFI, aims to present exemplary individuals and outstanding institutions in the Visayas and Mindanao regions to inspire local leaders to succeed in their chosen fields of endeavor.

Elisabeth Baumgart, program officer of the RAFI Triennial Award, said that the forum aims to attain a wider audience in the region as people want to hear the inspiring real-life stories of the winners and past winners.

Baumgart said that the forum would feature the works of the former rebels of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), who now build peaceful communities in Maguindanao.

The Maguindanao-based Kadtabanga Foundation for Peace and Development Advocates, Inc. (KFPDAI), was founded 15 years ago by former MNLF Moro rebels-turned-peacebuilders, Baumgart said.

Other RAFI finalists are: The Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation (AIDFI) and their ramp pump that brings water to upland communities in Negros Occidental; Cantaan Centennial Multi-Purpose Cooperative and their work with their community in conserving the giant clams of the Philippines in Camiguin; and Agri-Aqua Development Coalition–Mindanao and their work in coalition building in bringing sustainable development in Bukidnon; and Balay Mindanaw and their work in building peaceful, developed and resilient communities in Cagayan de Oro, Mindanao and the Visayas.

Baumgart said that the RAFI Triennial Awards for Exemplary Individual and Outstanding Institution in the Visayas and Mindanao was initiated in 1996 by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. to recognize the valuable contribution of individuals and institutions to social development.

DA pushes BROWN campaign

By Jorie C. Valcorza (JCV/PIA)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, November 17 (PIA) – As November is declared the National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM), the Department of Agriculture (DA) drums up the Be RICEponsible in your Own Way Now (BROWN) campaign.

This is in support to the country’s effort to attain rice sufficiency, improve farmers’ income, and promote better health among rice consumers.As the name suggests, DA urged the people to opt for brown rice, as it is a healthier choice.

Regional Director Lealyn A. Ramos clarified that brown rice is not a variety and that every rice variety can qualify for it as long as it is processed removing only the outermost layer, the hull, of the rice kernel to be able to retain its nutritional value.

She said that complete milling of the palay converts it from brown to white polished rice which is often sold in the markets today.

DA said the brown or unpolished rice is nutritionally superior in terms of protein, B1, B2 and B9 vitamins, vitamin E, minerals, dietary fiber and antioxidants.

They also encourage people to try other staples like banana, potato, cassava, corn, tuber crops, adlai, and sweet potato or mixed these with rice to get more nutrition.

Talking of being RICEponsible, Ramos also called on policy makers to create an ordinance requiring the serving of half cup of rice and making it the default serving for plated meals, like what has been done here in the city.

University training programs receive LoGoTRI-PhilNet accreditation stars

By Wilson J Hormeguera (XUComm)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, November 16 -- Four training programs of the Governance and Leadership Institute (GLI) of Xavier University received accreditation from Local Government Training and Research Institute - Philippine Network (LoGoTRI-PhilNet).

The certificate of accreditation was awarded during the Consortium of Academic Institutions in Mandaluyong City on October 30.

LoGoTRI-PhilNet is the country’s response to rationalize and direct the capacity development efforts in local governance, and to institutionalize mechanisms towards sustained, responsive, appropriate, transparent, accountable and quality capacity-building interventions for the local governments.

A non-stock, non-profit national association, LoGoTRI-PhilNet is a network of Local Resource Institutions (LRIs) composed of different academic and non-academic member communities.

The said institute awarded value stars based on their matrix to four of GLI’s training programs such as Community Participation in Local Governance – four stars (Excellent), Balanced Scorecard to Effectively Manage Organizations – four stars (Excellent), Bridging Leadership for Organizations – four stars (Excellent) and Community Participation in Procurement – three stars (Generally Satisfactory).

In school year 2014-2015, GLI was able to train leaders from 104 local government units across Mindanao.

GLI believes that this accreditation affirms its mission of building the capacity of public servants to advance good governance and effective leadership, and its vision to be the premier leadership institute in Mindanao by 2020.

Nambatac graced Loyola Cup opening

By Lynde Salgados

FUTURE PBA guard Rey Nambatac, a key player of newly-minted NCAA champion Letran Knights, provided inspiration on Friday’s opening of the 2015-16 St. Ignatius de Loyola Cup basketball tournament at the Xavier University gym.

The 5'10" Nambatac, who used to play with the Sacred Heart Saints before his successful stint in Manila, spoke before the basketball-loving youth, sharing positive tidbits on how to become a better athlete and a better person in general.

“Amo gayud siyang gi-invite kay nakadula pud siya kaniadto sa Loyola Cup. It’s a big factor nga makita siya sa mga kabataan nga adunay goal to succeed in their chosen field of sports someday,” tournament commissioner Arvin Martinez told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro.

Among those who listened with the crowd is Nambatac’s former Sacred Heart coach Edgardo `Boy’ Dacoco who is hopeful that the Cagayan de Oro native will hit the big time in the near future.

“Nambatac, Jalalon, Luib, Paredes ug ubay-ubay pa nga akong gipadala sa Manila nga nihimo na’g pangalan karon sa basketball. Kon suwertihon di lang ma-injured hayag na nga ma-PBA sab kini si Rey,” Dacoco said.

Close to 50 teams from all over Northern Mindanao have registered to see action in the annual Loyola Cup which also has volleyball as an added feature for this season.

Martinez said that around 30 schools from as far as Iligan, Marawi, Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental have fielded their respective teams in the 11th St. Ignatius de Loyola Cup that will last until February 28, next year.

For basketball, events on tap are the 11-under won last year by Xavier University Grade School, under-13 (U-13) and U-15 both ruled by Corpus Christi School and U-17 and U-25 to be defended by host XU Crusaders.

Rosevale shows might to capture COSAA title

By Jack Biantan

ROSEVALE Grade School booters dominated Xavier University Grade School, 4-0, to sweep this year’s Cagayan de Oro Schools Athletic Association (COSAA) elementary football competition and record their 5th COSAA title in five yeards.

Once again, their pillar of strength in the middle Charlson Caryle Dy stood out scoring two booming goals early for the Comets in the match held at the XU grounds in Divisioria.

Dy completely dominated the midfield dishing passes to wingers Renz Arada and JL Cascarra and striker Josh Go. XU Little Crusaders held on for a while and put up their strong defense to stop Rosevale’s charge.

However, Dy started his all around performance when he booted in his first goal in the 19th minute to put Rosevale ahead 1-0 at halftime. His booming shot came from the right side after he was left unguarded at the tip the penalty box.

The 12-year-old son of Engr. Charles and Menchu Dy then put Rosevale ahead 2-0 early in the second half when he booted in another boomer from the center outside the penalty box in the 28th minute.

Striker Josh Go then extended the Comet’s lead to 3-0 when he scored inside the penalty box. Substitute Andy Lugod completed Rosevale’s dominance when he found the back of the net in the 39th minute after his strike was deflected by an XU defender.

Rosevale swept all their COSAA matches this year winning over St. Mary’s School, and Abba’s Orchard School. It was the 9th title for coach Mario Sumampong’s charges this year and their 5th COSAA crown in five years.

XU was no match for the Comets from the start with defenders John Gementiza, Simon Simene, Ino Butaslac and goalkeeper Dave Mendoza keeping the defense. Aside from Dy, youngsters Mamat Cascara and Terrence Dy also helped in the midfield.

Completing the Rosevale team are Faris Mangotara, Jared Tan, Rawin Gementiza, Miggy Estacio, Zidane Denosta, Vinson Manubag, Jude Jayson, Anton Gue, Lorenzo Gue, Khalil Ong, RJ Caintic, Javier Tan, Ethan Biantan and Brombrom Dimaporo.

The Comets are now busy preparing for the Northern Mindanao meet which will take place in Oroquieta City in December. They will join the Manolo Fortich tournament in the first week of December.

The Manolo Fortich tournament is a preview of the regionals as top teams from the different school divisions in Northern Mindanao will join the tournament.

Pantawid women association serves their way to success

By Jamila M. Taha (DSWD/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, November 13 -- With the city’s fast growing economy particularly in the food industry, a Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (Pantawid Pamilya) women association was inspired to come together and set up their very own food business.

Geared with the necessary skills and attitude, the Sr. Nazareno 4Ps Association, actively participated in all program activities of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP).

In 2014, the group which is composed of 26 women joined the Basic Micro-enterprise Management Training and Entrepreneurship, wherein participants are given basic management training, financial management and processes to achieve their entrepreneurial goals. The program provided them with the necessary capital fund to realize their business goals.

The women’s eatery serves basic “lutong-bahay” (homemade) foods, desserts and even expand their venture to rice retailing. The business is inevitably growing since then and they are now planning to build another branch within the city.

According to Jocel Cabanay, the association’s president, the secret to their success is cooperation and trust. “Our business' success is a shared effort among all of us, we make sure that we maintain transparency and remain responsible to our duties as members of the group," she emphasized.

Cabanay also added, “Nalipay gyud kami tungod kay kani among negosyo dagko gyud ang natabang sa among mga pamilya ug panghinanglanon (We are very happy because this business has really helped our family as well as our needs)," she said.

After more than a year of operation, the women’s eatery has become known in their community. They have offered their services to DSWD several times, one of which was during the Secretary’s visit to the region where the group served their food to more than 300 people. To this date, the office calls for their services whenever there are events to be held within the city.

The group also accepts orders and catering services. Interested clients may personally visit Sr. Nazareno 4P’s Delicious Eatery at Julio Pacana Street, Barangay 26, Licoan, Cagayan de Oro City.

Globe’s Christmas in November with Oro media and bloggers

By Riain Alfonso

MEMBERS of the press and the blogger community in the city had much fun with Globe’s Christmas in November held at Seda Hotel on Tuesday evening.

Globe vows this annual appreciation Christmas party will be much fun and grander in the years to come.

This year, Globe’s prizes for the games and the raffle draw have yet to be matched or edged in the coming parties that will be thrown for the media and blogger communities in the city for the yuletide season.

The event was made livelier with ABS-CBN Pamahaw Espesyal host Jam Bantigue.

Globe is undeniably the top mobile network in the city and with that it vows to serve more the Cagayan de Oro communities through its upcoming various advocacies and events as its way of thanking the subscribers in the city for patronizing Globe since its shift from the analog to the digital.

“Nandito po kami para magpasalamat. Gagawin na po natin tradition to, Christmas in November,” said Jocel de Guzman, Globe Telecom Director for External Affairs.

The members of the press and bloggers were treated to a sumptuous meal and later participated in several games prepared by Globe including filling up a Christmas stocking race, decorate a human Christmas tree, and a Christmas Trivia competition.

To the delight of everybody present, several items were also raffled off including P5,000 Sodexo GCs, rice cooker, turbo broiler, microwave oven, washing machine, LED TV, a Samsung Tab 4, Samsung Galaxy S6, and an iPhone 6S.

De Guzman also mentioned in his welcome remarks the Globe Media Excellence Awards for 2015, now in its fourth year, has for the first time included media practitioners from other cities aside from Cebu and Davao.

“This is the first time that we’ve included CdeO, General Santos and Zamboanga. So this is our way of saying that we are recognizing your (media) excellent work,” said De Guzman, “Sa amin po, nere-recognize namig po siya na isa pong craft. In this digital age, you are now more relevant than ever simply because sa sobrang daming lumalabas na balita kapag nag Goggle ka, sa social media, hindi mo na alam kung ano ang totoo, hindi mo na alam kung ano ang credible. Now if you put your names on these stories and then the people will read them, we know that because of your discipline through the Journalism Code of Ethics, we know that the story that we read, the information that we received from you is actually accurate and it’s the truth. That’s why we all need you. Mas malaki po yung role nyo ngayon,” De Guzman said.

Oro water district assures supply from its source safe

By Pamela Jay F. Orias

AN OFFICIAL from Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) assures residents living in the dumpsite area using water sourced from its deep well as safe.

Engineer Bienvenido Batar Jr., COWD assistant general manager, said the deep wells that COWD owns are monitored every month to assure safe potable water.

A monthly bacteriological test, annual physical and chemical analysis tests are done by the city’s water district to monitor the water quality.

"Ang bacteriological test is done to monitor the presence of bacteria in the water while ang physical and chemical test is to check the color, odor, ug ang kabuuan sa quality," Batar explained.

He said the deep well owned by COWD which is near the sanitary landfill is the one located at Calaanan Valley.

"So far sa among monthly monitoring, wala pa gayud na nag-positive sa bacteria and even chemicals," Batar said.

He furthered that COWD has no control over privately-owned deep wells particularly placed in subdivisions near the dumpsite.

"Ang tendency man gud na ma-contaminated ang tubig is tungod sa leachate from the basura, and posible lang na siya mag-penetrate sa mga mabaw na deepwell ug kadtong very near sa dumpsite," Batar added.

It is under the Department of Health's (DOH) function, Batar said, to monitor these privately-owned deep wells especially if used for public consumption.

Batar is supporting the call of the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (Clenro) urging the city council to hasten the approval of budget for the closure of the said sanitary landfill.

"Siyempre musuporta gyud ta ana, mas maayo gyud kung masarado na siya ilabina kung atong tan-awon ang risks na posibleng ma-cause ana sa public, specifically ang water, isa gyud siya sa ma-apektuhan," Batar said.

However, Batar assured that COWD is doing its job to ensure safe potable water for its concessionaires.


Oro netters stamp class in Cabadbaran 2015 Cebuana Lhuillier netfest

By Lynde Salgados

CAGAYAN de Oro took by storm the Caraga swing of the 2015 Cebuana Lhuillier Age-Group tennis tournament, producing majority number of winning netters in both the singles and doubles competitions.

Gennifer Lysandra Pagente shared the spotlight with Cebu’s Marc Nicole Suson as the most winningest campaigners of them all, even as fellow Cagayan de Oro bets Matt Steve Palasan and Mary Aubrey Calma also unleashed their might in the Group 2 event that attracted 104 entries at the Cabadbaran City Tennis Association (CCTA) Club in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte on Nov. 6-10.

Pagente duplicated Suson’s double-whammy feat by outlasting Farrah Kris Caroline Emata of Balingasag, Misamis Oriental, 6-1, 6-1 and Oro compatriot Mary Aubrey Calma, 6-4, 6-4 for the girls’ 14-under and 16-under crowns.

Suson held his ground in the boys’ 14-under and 16-under finals opposite Kevin Paul Borja of Cabadbaran, 6-2, 6-1 and Duma Hakim Boloto of MSU, Marawi, 6-2, 6-2.

Calma, however, gathered strength to crush Angely Esguerra of Surigao City, 6-0, 6-2 to bring home the girls’ premier 18-under plum as Palasan—who showed massive improvement in the recent Peugeot Men’s Open in Cagayan de Oro—downed Boloto, 6-0, 6-2 to secure the boys’ 18-under title.

“It’s a very successful event with participants from the Visayas and Mindanao coming in and really prepared to give their best,” said organizer and ITF-licensed referee Mario Inguito Craiz, who acknowledged Dunlop as the tourney’s official ball and Asiatraders Corporation for co-sponsoring the event.

Here’s the complete results:

Host Club: Cabadbaran City Tennis Association, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte

Total # of entries 104 Tournament ID: Group 2 Date: November 6-10, 2015

SINGLES EVENT

10 years & under (unisex)

Champion: Nash Agustines (Oroquieta City) 40 40 Runner-up: Kurt Gervan Bandolis (Tubod, Lanao del Norte)

12 years & under (Boys)

Champion: Prince Najeeb Langitao (MSU, Marawi City) 63 64 Runner-up: Jan Caesar Paqueo (Claver, Surigao del Norte)

14 years & under (Boys)

Champion: Marc Nicole Suson (Cebu City) 62 61 Runner-up: Kevin Paul Borja (Cabadbaran City)

16 years & under (Boys)

Champion: Marc Nicole Suson (Cebu City) 62 62 Runner-up: Duma Hakim Boloto (MSU, Marawi City)

18 years & under (Boys)

Champion: Matt Steve Palasan (CDO) 60 63 Runner-up: Duma Hakim Boloto (MSU, Marawi City)

12 years & under (Girls)

Champion: Farrah Kris Caroline Emata (Balingasag, Mis. Or.) 63 64 Runner-up: Kristin Guia Margarrette Bandolis (Tubod, LdN)

14 years & under (Girls)

Champion: Gennifer Lysandra Pagente (CDO) 61 61 Runner-up: Farrah Kris Caroline Emata (Balingasag, Mis. Or.)

16 years & under (Girls)

Champion: Gennifer Lysandra Pagente (CDO) 64 64 Runner-up: Mary Aubrey Calma (CDO)

18 years & under (Girls)

Champion: Mary Aubrey Calma (CDO) 60 62 Runner-up: Angely Esguerra (Surigao City)

DOUBLES EVENT

10 YEARS & UNDER (UNISEX)

Champion: Nash Agustines/Kurt Gervan Bandolis 41 40 Runner-up: Casey Padilla/Kristin Guia Margarrette Bandolis

14 YEARS & UNDER (BOYS)

Champion: Kevin Paul Borja/Charlie Cabranilla 8-3 Runner-up: Justin Yepis/Marc Nicole Suson

18 YEARS & UNDER (BOYS)

Champion: Fonzy Yepis/Duma Hakim Boloto 8-5 Runner-up: John Paul Borja/Ziaulkhair Samporma

14 YEARS & UNDER (GIRLS)

Champion: Casey Padilla/Farrah Kris Caroline Emata 8-3 Runner-up: Yra Monteclaro/Angelyka Baroquillo

18 YEARS & UNDER (GIRLS)

Champion: Mary Aubrey Calma/Gennifer Lysandra Pagente 8-0 Runner-up: Precious Lynne Fong/Angelyka Baroquillo

Land Bank set to give unpaid dues to 4Ps beneficiaries

(PNA), LAP/CD/ERCEL MAANDIG

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 9 (PNA) –- The Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) is set to pay the one-month delayed payments to Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries this month.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Northern Mindanao said that the payments would cover the overdue cash grants for the months of January and February this year.

It said that the delay of the payment was due to the LBP’s bidding processes involving the over the counter service provider of the bank.

Araceli F. Solamillo, DSWD regional director in Northern Mindanao, said that the DSWD acknowledges the concern of the beneficiaries of not receiving the grants that augment family expenses.

The DSWD is lobbying with the LBP to fast track the payout of unpaid cash grants to 4Ps beneficiaries in the region, Solamillio said.

Although Solamillo did not disclose the number of the unpaid 4Ps, she said that the LBP has yet to pay the beneficiaries in 16 localities in Northern Mindanao.

She said that the LBP postponed anew the payment of the 16 affected localities reportedly due to some internal factors between the LBP and the Luzon Brokerage Corp. (LBC).

“We hope that all unpaid payments of the 4Ps beneficiaries could be settled in this month of November,” Solamillo said.

Oro prelate campaigns for 'Champ' elections

By Pamela Jay F. Orias

NONPARTISAN organizations brought to the streets their call for a 'Clean, Honest, Accurate, Meaningful, Peaceful' (Champ) elections in 2016 at Kiosko Kagawasan, Divisoria in Cagayan de Oro City on Saturday, November 7.

Archbishop Antonio Ledesma of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro enumerated three reminders to some 1,000 individuals: circles of discernment, principled partisan politics, and politics as a noble profession to achieve the Champ kind of elections in 2016.

"The first one (circles of discernment), nagpasabot na kita dapat dili mag-inusara, dapat atong kalambigit ang atong pamilya, aron uban na mamalandong ug mag-inambitay kung kinsa ang matuod na pilion. Ang ikaduha na sugyot (principled partisan politics), naga-ingon na dapat atong ipagawas ang atong prinsipyo ug baruganan alang sa katarungan sa pili-ay," Ledesma said.

"Ug ang ikatulo mao ang giingon kanato ni Papa Francisco that politics is a noble profession, a highest form of charity, ang atong hagit sa atong mga kandidato na gamiton kini na hagit to exercise well this highest form of charity for the good of the people," Ledesma added.

He urged Kagay-anons to follow these reminders as these will help achieve peaceful 2016 elections.

Carl Cabaraban, Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible for Voting (PPCRV) coordinator, also urged Kagay-anons to know the worth of one's vote.

"I believe we still have hope for a CHAMP elections, this is why naningkamot gayud mi to raise this public awareness by conducting political education, eventually unta we would really come to a point wherein vote-selling and vote-buying would be eradicated nationwide," Cabaraban said in an interview.

Cabaraban asked politicians to avoid election–related violence and to 'stick to the rule of law,' citing sportsmanship as an important attitude for a potential candidate.

"Kung kinsay mudaog, kung kinsay mapildi, dapat dawaton nato, they should be running not only for self-interests but for the collective interest," Cabaraban added.

Meanwhile, Lilia Catoto, 23, resident of Barangay Patag, said the change must emanate from the people.

"Kung walay mudawat sa kwarta, mawala man pud gayud ng vote-buying. Unta ning mga tao tan-awon nila na kita ray luoy kung masayop ta ug pili kay tunogd lang nasilaw ta sa kwarta," Catoto said.

Albert Vergara, 40, a Barangay Kauswagan resident, urged fellow Kagay-anons to be as honest as they can be during elections. "Kung gipalit ang imong boto, sama ra pud na na nangilad ka sa imong kaugalingon. Diha nalang ba gayud ta taman, paliton lang?" Vergara asserted.

Kagay-anons brought with them placards and wore t-shirts with texts: 'No to Political Dynasty!', 'No to Political Patronage!', 'No to Vote-buying and selling!’, 'Huwag Kang Magnanakaw!', 'My Vote is Not for Sale', No More Nepotism', among others

The event was participated by different inter-faith organizations, barangay officials, movements advocating for clean elections, school institutions, police and military forces, and supporters of local candidates were also present.

Life experiences: Inspiration for artist’s exhibit

By Riain Alfonso

FROM the 5th to the 12th of November, the 2nd Level West Concourse of the Limketkai Mall has served as venue for “My Journey Through Canvass, Brushes, and Paints,” a solo art exhibit by Kristie Sabanpan-Butron.

Having been featured in six other group exhibits in the past, this is Kristie’s first solo exhibit that features 20 of her artwork.

The artist, who incidentally also celebrated her birthday on November 6, is 50 years old and started painting in earnest late in life. “I started painting in October of 2013,” Kristie said, “When I was younger, I did more of arts and craft, art related but never painting. What inspired me to start painting is to empower myself in doing the things that I love, in doing the things that I enjoy doing.”

“When my marriage failed, it was really how things started,” Kristie furthered. “I realized that I have to take care of myself. I loved that person too much that I have no more love for myself. When it failed, I went through counseling and came to a point that I realized I needed to love myself first and foremost. And when I say loving myself, I mean doing the things I love, not for others but for me. I can live life by being myself and not being too dependent on other people.” She believes that the trials she had to undergo are also blessings because they opened a lot of doors for her especially with the arts.

Kristie is a member of Artsada Cagayan de Oro, a local artist group, and was encouraged to stage her own solo art exhibit because people believed in her work even during the times she didn’t believe in herself.

“I’m just here to please myself, I just do this to please myself but it’s something else when others are also pleased with your work. It’s really more than what I expected.”

“A lot of people say my paintings are colorful. This is maybe because I have a brighter outlook in life now. I prefer to look at life in a more hopeful way. There’s no dull moment if one chooses to be happy and color brightens up people’s lives. For me, I like being colorful because that’s how I want my life to be, colorful and happy and exciting, full of adventure, full of fun.”

She is most proud of her artwork “Precious as Birds,” which depicts several birds in a row and is inspired by a bible verse, Matthew 6:26. “It’s my wake up call. In spite of being down in life, there’s still hope because I have a loving God. I’m as precious as a bird. Dili ko pasagdan sa Ginoo, I can go on living my life despite of whatever experience I get. Right now, life has really been good. Very, very good, very inspiring, and very happy with where I am right now. Very happy jud, as in!”

Kristie said that she’s still learning the art of painting and would like to focus on acrylic for now but plans to work with oil in the future. All her artwork depicts scenes that are close to her, of places she’s been to and of her own experiences especially with mountain climbing which is her other passion. The exhibit serves as a testament of how she was able to pick up the pieces after a fall and of how strong a woman Kristie is.

She also said that she never thought of selling her artwork and was surprised that people actually want to buy her art, “Being able to paint is already a blessing and for people to really want to have my paintings in their homes is more than a blessing for me.” Her artworks sell from P2,500 to P9,000.

She also wants to inspire other artists through her exhibit, “I just want to inspire everybody. Because, ako, I started painting late and I know a lot of people who wants to go into painting and I want to inspire them, that it’s never too late to start.” This is also why she has two featured guest artists who have two paintings each on display in her exhibit. The artists are Lyndsay, her 15-year-old daughter, and Kristoffer Galarpe, a friend.

“Na-overwhelmed ko, super overwhelmed. Di ako makapaniwala,” said Kristoffer who used coffee to paint his two artworks on display, “Super saya ko kasi hindi ko ini-expect na ma-exhibit din yung ginawa kong art. Dream come true for me.”

“It’s exciting and scary,” said Lyndsay, “It’s nice that your skills get acknowledged by people but it’s also scary because you’re scared of what people might think of your work. I’m proud of my work because it’s something that I worked hard for and did my best to make.”

DTI awards BAGWIS seals to 22 establishments in NorMin

By Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat (JMOR/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, November 6 (PIA) – A total of 22 establishments in Northern Mindanao has been awarded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) region 10 with BAGWIS seal including five Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) dealers who are first time awardees in celebration of Consumer Welfare Month.

Atty. Fel Lester Brillantes, legal officer and chief of the Consumer Welfare Division of DTI region 10 said that the awarding of the Bagwis seal is aimed to recognize business establishments that practice fair business and uphold the rights and welfare of consumers.

Formerly known as the DTI-Certified Establishment, the DTI Bagwis Program gives due recognition to establishments that adhere fair trade laws, rules and regulations, having consumer welfare desks, and giving quality customer services to clients.

Further, their Bagwis seals or seals of excellence can serve as guide and assurance where consumers can buy safe and quality products at the best value for money, Brillantes said.

The Bagwis Seal is classified into Gold, Silver and Bronze.

Bagwis Bronze Seal awardees include CDO 2 Cycles Marketing Corp., Fabulous Jeans and Shirts and General Merchandise and Metro Gold Supermart Inc. in Bukidnon, DL Bonita Merchandising-Catarman Branch in Camiguin, Mtzia Corporation, and JI and JEs General Merchandise in Lanao del Norte, and Jo-Mary Construction Supply and Lumber, New El Franco Commercial, J Marketing Corporation and Seclot General Merchandise Inc. in Misamis Occidental.

Meanwhile, silver awardees include D’Dales Shopping Center, Emmcor Inc., Highway Construction and General Merchandise, Bob’s Construction Supply, Princity Inc. and New Family Traders in Misamis Occidental, and five LPG outlets in Cagayan de Oro City including Juan Sia Enterprises and Grancia Marketing.

As first time awardee, Dominick Grancia of Grancia Marketing said they are already 19 years in service and that they always uphold honesty and maintains standards set by the DTI and Department of Energy in their business.

The awarding ceremony is one of the highlights of this year’s Consumer Welfare Month Celebration held on October 28, 2015 in Cagayan de Oro City.

Comelec to deactive voters with no biometrics

By Froilan Gallardo

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews / 5 Nov) – The Commission on Elections is set to deactivate 98,883 registered voters in Region 10 after they failed to beat the biometrics registration deadline last week.

Comelec Misamis Oriental director Carlito Ravelo said this included some 11,436 registered voters from this city who failed to make it to the registration center at Robinsons Supermarket at Limketkai Mall and other poll centers last Saturday.

Ravelo said the deactivation is set this coming Nov. 19 when the Election Registration Board (ERB) convenes in Cagayan de Oro.

“The high number of voters who failed to beat the deadline in Cagayan de Oro is understandable because it is a highly urbanized center and a melting pot for people in Northern Mindanao,” Ravelo said.

He said the list of unregistered voters might have included those who recently died or have transferred to other highly urbanized cities.

Ravelo said despite the deactivation, Northern Mindanao or Region 10 – which is composed of the provinces of Bukidnon, Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte and Misamis Occidental – has 2,546,596 voters as of Oct. 30, 2015.

The number of voters who failed to beat last Saturday’s deadline was high in Lanao del Norte with 40,329; Bukidnon, 26,690; Misamis Oriental including Cagayan de Oro, 18,882; Misamis Occidental, 11,162, and Camiguin, 1,890.

The ERB that will convene on Nov. 19 will also decide whether to accept or not the voters who registered from Oct 1 to 31.

Ravelo said up for validation are some 36,174 new voters in Cagayan de Oro.

Italpinas gears for more investment after planned IPO

By Madelaine B. Miraflor

As it waits for final approval for its P242-million planned maiden share sale at the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), property developer Italpinas Development Corp. (IDC) is looking to spend more than a billion pesos for its two upcoming projects.

Harold Dacumos, IDC’s vice president for banking and business development, said in a briefing in Makati on Wednesday that the company will be investing more than a billion pesos for two major projects that will start construction within this quarter and the first quarter of 2016.

These projects, which are called Primavera City and Miramonti, are both mixed-use property developments located in Cagayan de Oro and Batangas, respectively.

Primavera City, which is comprised of seven mixed-use residential and commercial buildings, will be built into several phases and is estimated to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Dacumos said this project will require the company an investment of about P670 million, part of which will be funded through a large portion of the company’s initial public offering (IPO) proceeds.

Miramonti, on the other hand, is the company’s future project in Sto. Tomas, Batangas which will have three towers with 23 floors each.

“The project consists of two phases covering a total land area of 9,435 square meters. The estimated project cost for that is P700 million to P750 million,” Dacumos said.

Combined, the two projects alone will already require the company a total investment of P1.3 billion to P1.4 billion.

For his part, IDC chairman and chief operating officer Romolo Nati said that as part of the company’s expansion, IDC has identified target land acquisitions in Lipa, Batangas; Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental; Subic, Zambales; Montelago, Oriental Mindoro; Dumaguete, Negros Ortiental; Iloilo City.

He also said the company is in negotiations for potential property purchase in Camiguin and some part of North Luzon.

Last Friday, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) already approved the company’s IPO, allowing it to sell as much as 57.622 million primary common shares at a maximum price of P4.20 per share.

The company was supposedly planning to do the share sale on July 27 to 31 but since it took a while before the SEC gave its approval on the IPO, the company was forced to move its target offer period date on November 3 until November 9.

Post-approval, the company was finally able to finalize the timetable for the offering, setting December 7 as its official listing date at the PSE, while it intends to offer the shares on November 20 to 26. The company will set the offer price on November 12.

This was mentioned by IDC president Jose Leviste III who was also present in the briefing.

The shares of IDC will be listed on the Small, Medium and Emerging Board of the PSE.

‘GrabTaxi’ now in Oro

By Pamela Jay F. Orias

GETTING a taxi would now be a click away for Kagaya-anons.

The taxi-hailing application dubbed as 'GrabTaxi' has now reached the city after the Cagayan de Oro First Taxi Drivers Alliance (Cafitada) sealed a deal with the GrabTaxi Company last week.

Bernie Jamaca, Cafitada president, said in an interview that passengers will now have 'more options' to get to their destinations in the most convenient way possible.

"Ang usual na gabuhaton sa taxi driver, kami ang mangita ug pasahero pero karon mismo ang mga pasahero na ang mangita ug mo-tap sa amoa aron sila makasakay," Jamaca said.

He said the app could cater to passengers in remote areas, including those traveling in rush hours, and accommodate passengers stranded because of frequent rains as well as with the warm weather.

To use the app, download first the GrabTaxi app in the PlayStore in your smartphones to perform a one-time activation process.

After turning on your phone's GPS, the app will then detect your location, and the number of taxi units available in your area.

With the complete information filled-out in the app, a taxi will now be assigned to the commuter after a minute. The app displays the driver's name, picture, and plate number including the app's estimated time duration of your travel.

The commuter then taps the "to" field and search his destination. The app will display the estimated fare and distance. Also, the commuter may add a note to the assigned driver to help locate the passenger.

The app will then track your driver's progress to get to your location. The commuter may also call his or her driver if one decides to give additional information.

Once you get on your taxi you can also SMS, email, or share a link to the passenger's family and friends so they will be able to track and know if the passenger got to his destination safely.

Jamaca also urges taxi drivers in the city to apply for the GrabTaxi app adding the registration requires no payment.

"Wala'y kwarta ang na-involve ani, to apply, only find officers of Cafitada para ma-guide sila," Jamaca explained.

Taxi drivers' barangay clearance, copies of professional driver's license and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LFTRB) identification card are required to apply at GrabTaxi.

Jojo Colada, 40, taxi driver, thinks that the GrabTaxi app would help increase his earning every day.

"Sa akong pagkadungog, chada ni kay ang mga pasahero mismo ang mangita sa ato, dili ta mahago pud ug suroy kay kalas gasolina, maayo tong kabalo na ta daan asa ta muadto," Colada said.

Claire De Mesa, 26, is glad with the development, "Naa naman ni siya sa major cities so happy pud ta na at last naa na gayud siya sa Cagayan de Oro. Dugay raman ko gapa-abot ani kay gamit gayud siya labina ting-ulan na, maka-save ug time ug energy," she said.

The GrabTaxi app has reached big cities such as Cebu and Davao last year. The full-blast operation of GrabTaxi in the city will start on December 1, meanwhile, seminars for taxi drivers are prioritized by Cafitada officers.

"Naa mi seminars starting November 6 at the Cafitada office in #24 Tomas-Saco streets," Jamaca said.

NNC holds nutrition in emergencies confab

(JCV/PIA)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, November 2 (PIA) – Members of the nutrition emergency cluster were convened in Cagayan de Oro city on 19-23 October 2015 for a training workshop in Nutrition in Emergencies (NiE) to develop their competencies in administering standards and appropriate nutrition interventions for emergencies and disasters.

The National Nutrition Council (NNC) as designated chair of the cluster spearheaded the activity, invited Local government units (LGUs) with existing local nutrition clusters, nutrition action officers in at risk areas, together with the members of the regional nutrition cluster to compose the regional NiE training.

The workshop introduced concepts on nutrition cluster coordination, assessment of nutritional status, micronutrient interventions, infant and young child feeding, selective feeding, and monitoring and evaluation of nutrition interventions during emergencies.

NNC-10 Nutrition Program Coordinator Marissa DM Navales, meanwhile, noted that Ozamiz City, Valencia City, and Camiguin have already initiated the conduct of NiE training on their area, and that the confab aims to cascade the priority further towards other cities and provinces in Northern Mindanao.

Implementation of FMR project seen

(JBD/CdeOSP)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The City Council committee on public works and engineering on October 27 adopted a resolution requesting City Mayor Oscar Moreno to direct the City Engineer’s Office to conduct an inspection and submit its report in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-10) District Engineering Office.

This is in relation to the Memorandum of Undertaking (MOU) entered into and executed by and between the DPWH – Cagayan de Oro City 1st District Engineering Office and the city government for the implementation of the project-concreting of Tignapoloan Farm- to- Market Road, and for the release of P1 million as the counterpart of the city for the said project.

The committee on finance and ways and means chaired by Councilor President Elipe referred the matter to the committee noting that the project is being implemented at a 30-percent risk by the contractor.

Meanwhile, the committee, chaired by Councilor Alden Bacal favorably endorsed to the City Appraisal Committee the request of a resident of Zone 6, Kapisnon, Barangay Kauswagan for assistance to assess the value of the two-meter wide and 15-meter wide long easement granted on his favor in relation to his request for a road-right-of-way in the area.

The property of the complainant is adjacent and located at the back portion of a private property.

The resident is willing to execute a Deed of Exchange and to purchase the requested four-meter wide for road-right-of-way which will affect a private property. However, the property owner will only allow a two-meter- wide alley. The other two-meter alley will be on the adjacent lot.

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