Cagayan de Oro City News November 2013

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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
Cagayan de oro city river.jpg
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

Reforestation project proponents told: Respect ‘lumad’ law

By Anjo Bacarisas


A TRIBAL group in Barangay Dansolihon wants the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) to be respected by proponents of the reforestation projects in six hinterland villages in Cagayan de Oro.

“The reforestation project is good because of the prevalent problem we are facing (that is) climate change,” said Carmelito Nacalaban, also known as Datu Hapitan.

Nacalaban is the representative of the Higaonon tribe in the local government unit of Dansolihon.

Other recipient barangays of the reforestation are Pigsag-an, Tuburan, Taglimaw, Tagpangi and Pagalungan.

As a tribe in the village, Nacalaban said the benefactors should respect the IPRA Law.

The reforestation project in Dansolihon was realized through the initiative of Representative Rufus Rodriguez (second district).

While Rodriguez was recognizing other delegates during the groundbreaking of the project, Nacalaban added that prior to the implementation of the project a free prior informed consent (FPIC) should be conducted.

“Conducting the FPIC is one way of respecting the IPRA Law,” Nacalaban said adding that regardless if it is a government or private project an FPIC should be conducted.

Nacalaban said through initiating the FPIC the Higaonons residing in the proposed area of reforestation will understand the intent and nature of the project.

Moreover, he said the timberland areas intended for the reforestation are the ancestral lands of the Higaonons.

“It is our ancestral domain,” said Nacalaban pointing out that their ancestors and the present generation of Higaonon have lived in the timberland areas long past.

But Nacalaban maintained they are not against the project.

“We just want the other Higaonons to understand the project through the FPIC,” he said.

Rodriguez said the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Northern Mindanao (DENR) will inspect the villages and their organizations which will implement the reforestation project.

Rodriguez added that through the government agencies in-charge of the environment, he will not allow irresponsible mining, coal production and anything that harms the environment.

“Restoring the forest in these areas will cover the entire Cagayan de Oro City,” said Rodriguez referring to the absorption of carbon dioxide from the city.

Ensuring implementation

Higaonon tribal priest Datu Lahilaran said the reforestation initiative is good but they have to make sure that the project will be implemented.

Lahilaran said to ensure the project’s implementation, “it should go through the tribal leaders of the Higaonon in the area.”

He added there was a similar project before under the Community Resources Management Project (CRMP) that was not fully implemented.

“It was also a reforestation project (back in 1997),” said Lahilaran, but he noted that there is no proof that the project reached its goal.

Lahilaran is one of the organizers of the project covering 12 hinterland villages.

“The budget of the project was P54 milllion and yet I was not even compensated for my traveling expenses as an organizer,” said Lahilaran, pointing out he served for the project for seven years.

But Rodriguez assured: “We will go through the project. We will ensure that it will be implemented and we will look over the trees from the start until it matures.”

Reforestation project

The reforestation project covering 3,000 hectares is pursuant to Republic Act No. 10452 (RA 10452), also known as “An act reforesting 3,000 hectares of public land in Cagayan de Oro City and appropriating funds therefore.”

Ruth Tawantawan, DENR regional executive director, said the reforestation project is very important since it will lessen the effects of climate change particularly in the city.

Rodriguez said Cagayan de Oro City is the only city which received a large amount of money for a reforestation project, and this is the only bill pertaining to that.

Livelihood

Abante Mindanao (Abamin) representative Maximo Rodriguez said they will provide seedlings and livestock to the stakeholders of the reforestation project.

“We will distribute white corn, cocoa tree and rubber to the people,” said Maximo.

He added the area will become an eco-tourism site by the year 2016.

“Eco-tourism and these projects will ensure the livelihood of the people,” said Maximo adding the DENR-10 will conduct trainings to help the people take care of their crops and livelihood.







US national wanted for estafa, gun raps arrested in Cagayan

By visayandailystar.com


An American national, long wanted in Bacolod City for estafa and illegal gun possession charges, was nabbed at a bus terminal in Cagayan de Oro City, Mindanao, at about 3:30 a.m. Tuesday.

The Bacolod City Police Office is coordinating with the Police Regional Office-10 to serve the warrants of arrest against Daniel Cruz Xavier, who is believed to be linked to the Ozamiz robbery group, Senior Supt. Edgardo Ordaniel, acting city police director, said yesterday.

He said the police from the PRO-10 will serve the arrest warrants to Xavier, who is now detained at the Regional Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit-10 office.

A joint police and military team apprehended Xavier, who had also allegedly claimed to be a United Nations representative. He allegedly assured Nur Misuari, founder of the Moro National Liberation Front, that the UN was supporting them in declaring independence in some provinces in Mindanao, police reports said.

Rebellion and violation of international humanitarian law charges were filed by the police against Xavier, Misuari, and other MNLF members, who were allegedly behind the 21-day siege in Zamboanga, September this year.

On July, the UN warned the public against Xavier when he falsely represented the council, reports said.

The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Homeland Security were reportedly searching for Xavier because of the fake documents he presented to the US Embassy.

A raid on his rented houses in Brgy. Singcang-Airport and in Brgy. Mandalagan, all in Bacolod, yielded two high-powered firearms, several magazines, bullets, tools used in making fake identification cards, his passport and IDs, one of them, bearing the logo of the Central Intelligence Agency, police records show.*SGG

Coal-fired power plant ‘tool for gradual mass murder’

By Anjo Bacarisas


ADA Estepa, of the Ecology Desk of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, considered on Wednesday coal-fired power plants as tools for gradual mass murder, saying deaths caused by the carbon dioxide emitted by them are very alarming.

“In the United State of America alone, it reported around one million deaths per year due to coal-fired power plants,” said Estepa, to prove her point.

She said these power plants have high carbon emissions, and they release not just carbon but also arsenic and mercury that can endanger the health of the residents within their reach.

According to the website of the Union of Concerned Scientists: “Toxic substances in the waste -- including arsenic, mercury, chromium and cadmium -- can contaminate drinking water supplies and damage vital organs and the nervous system.”

“One study found that one out of every 100 children who drank groundwater contaminated with arsenic from coal-fired power plant wastes were at risk of developing cancer,” the website stated.

“The carbon and other chemicals that are emitted by coal-fired power plants can cause respiratory and circulatory diseases to the people nearby,” said Estepa.

Cagayan de Oro City’s committee on energy chairman Teodulfo Lao Jr. opposed these power plants, citing the hazards they pose to the people in Villanueva town in Misamis Oriental where one coal-fired power plant already exists.

“It emits nitrogen oxide – this chemical can cause cancer,” said Lao.

Endangering Oro

Sulog chairperson Orlando Ravanera added the fumes emitted by the 405-megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant of FDC Misamis Power Corporation (FDC Misamis) in Villanueva can travel up to 600 kilometers.

“Cagayan de Oro City is just 30 kilometers away from Villanueva,” said Sulog chairperson Orlan Ravanera.

Sendong survivor

Tropical Storm Sendong survivor Maria Carmen Rodrigo is against these plants because they can cause major calamities around the world.

She said that aside from calamities, they can gravely affect people’s health.

“What is happening to us, like the onslaught of Sendong and Super Typhoon Yolanda in Leyte, is an offshoot of climate change,” said Rodrigo.

Following the precautionary principle, Ravanera said: “Sendong and Yolanda served as a wake-up call for us.”

“We should take a stand for our environment and coal-fired power plants should not be allowed,” Ravanera added.

Lao said coal-fired power plant aggravates the damage in the atmosphere.

For Rodrigo, Sendong taught her well why the people should take a stand against the power plants.

Rodrigo is presently living in Mambuaya Coopville, a relocation site for Sendong survivors.

“I am afraid of the future of my children if we allow these CPPs (coal-fired power plants),” said Rodrigo.

‘We can stop this’

Sulog believes that they will win the fight against the establishment of another coal-fired power plant in Misamis Oriental.

“Kaya kaayo na babagan (We can surely stop this),” said Ravanera.

Ravanera said the group is inspired by the struggles of the people in Luzon against coal-fired power plants.

He said in the case of Luzon, the environmental compliance certificate was issued, but it was nullified because of the people’s clamor against it.

Ravanera said if Sulog can enlighten the people about the hazards of coal-fired power plants, they can win them over, and there will be no social acceptability on FDC’s coal-fired power plant in Villanueva.

Ravanera added that the group (Sulog) will never stop until the battle is won.

“It should be banned. There is no compromise when the health of the people and the environment is at stake,” he said.

Sendong-hit LGUs return Cebu’s favor

By Jose Santino Bunachita


It’s their time to help. The Iligan City government has extended financial assistance to the Cebu City government, two years after the latter also helped them. Iligan City Mayor Celso Regencia personally handed a P500,000 check to Cebu City government as their way of helping the city who also suffered damage following the 7.2 magnitude earthquake last Oct. 15. It was received by Cebu City Vice Mayor Edgar Labella, City Treasurer Diwa Cuevas and Councilor Mary Ann delos Santos. “It was December 17, 2011. I can’t forget that time when the Cebu City government brought heavy equipment to our place and gave us cash assistance also,” Regencia said. In December 2011, Iligan City and Cagayan de Oro was badly hit by typhoon Sendong. Regencia said he was still the Iligan City Police Office Director then. Cagayan de Oro meanwhile has appropriated P5 million for supertyphoon Yolanda-hit provinces, including Cebu. The Cebu City government gave P2 million assistance to Iligan City and P3 million to Cagayan de Oro City. Over the weekend, students and staff belonging to the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Team of the Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan (XU) went to northern Cebu to disitribute relief goods, said Ermin Stan Pimentel, head of the XU Social Involvement Office.

DOLE-10 Self-Reliant Organization for CARP named as most outstanding coop in MisOcc

By Mildred E. Dablio


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 25 (PIA) --- The Department of Labor and Employment – Self-Reliant Organization (DOLE-SRO) for Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) Mamanga Daku Agrarian Reform Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MADARC MPC) was recently awarded as the most outstanding Agrarian Reform Community Cooperative for the province of Misamis Occidental.

This is in recognition for its contribution to the success of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program which was given during the 28th Inter PARCOM Convention at the Highland Resort, Mambajao, Camiguin last October 2.

MADARC MPC is under the special program of DOLE and one of the Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs).

SRO for CARP Project is an implementation of the government’s CARP with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) as the lead implementing agency.

The project is also being implemented under the DOLE Bureau of Rural Workers, now the Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns, since the inception of the CARP in 1989 under the Republic Act 6657, in which the DOLE, under section 41 of the said law, has been identified as one of the members of the Presidential Agrarian Reform Council (PARC).

DOLE-X Regional Director Atty. Alan M. Macaraya said the project aims to assist the ARB in selected plantation farms to develop the competencies and organizational strategies through institutional development and management of farm operations towards optimum agricultural productivity and sustainability for the farmer beneficiaries/plantation workers in particular and the development of agrarian reform communities.

Meanwhile, DOLE-X SRO for CARP Project Officer, Marciano Cardente, Jr. said MADARC MPC is a duly registered cooperative located five kilometers away from the Poblacion of Plaridel, Misamis Occidental.

To date, the cooperative has a total active members of two hundred sixty (260) farmers (113 are male and 147 are female). The projects include rice milling, trading, and production.

Rice trading has an initial start-up capital of P50,000 but still insufficient, to its members, the management staff with the assistance of DOLE-CF facilitated their availment for financial assistance for additional capital on rice trading in the amount of P350,000 and an additional capital for consumer store amounting to P150,000. These were released by DOLE-X last June 28, 2013.

Other sources of income of the cooperative include membership fees, capital build-up, and savings which are regularly collected once monthly. (Mildred E. Dablio-DOLE-X/PIA-10)

CDO town tightens security vs NPAs

By Gerry Lee Gorit, The Philippine Star


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines – The provincial police office in Misamis Oriental has stepped up security measures in the town of Villanueva following reports that the New People’s Army (NPA) plans to attack four business establishments in the municipality.

Aside from police visibility, checkpoints and nighttime patrols, the local police reviewed the security plans of the establishments, according to Senior Inspector Rogelio Labor Jr.

Labor said they are coordinating with the Philippine Army in monitoring areas in Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon that might be used as entry points of the rebels.

He said these measures were prompted by a recent rebel attack on a piggery farm in Bukidnon and at Del Monte farm in Camp Phillips.

“We cannot confirm however if the reported threats come from the NPA or bandits,” Labor said as he confirmed that the Philippine Sinter, Steag State Power, Coca Cola, and Iligan Alloy had received letters “from the NPA” asking for donations amounting from P1 million to P5 million.

For his part, Villanueva Mayor Julio Uy said he was unaware of the reported threat.

Filinvest starts construction of 405-MW coal plant in MisOr

By Froilan Gallardo


CAGAYAN DE ORO (MindaNews/23 November)—Construction of the P30-billion coal plant of the Gotianun family’s Filinvest Development Corp. (FDC) began last Wednesday with the groundbreaking ceremony attended by local officials in Villanueva town, Misamis Oriental.

Jonathan Gotianun, FDC Utilities Inc. chair, said the 405-megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant is scheduled for test commissioning in June 2015 with the commercial operation targeted in September 2016.

“This power plant will be the power engine for growth in Mindanao in the next few years, “ Gotianun told local officials.

FDC formed the FDC Misamis Power Corp. to undertake the development and manage the operation of the coal plant located in a 82-hectare property inside the Phividec Industrial Estate in Villanueva town.

The company signed a lease agreement with the Phividec Industrial Authority after it completed the technical and financial study of the coal plant project early this year.

The power plant would be the second coal plant to rise inside the 3,000-hectare Phividec estate.

STEAG State Power Corp. operates a 210-MW coal plant in the industrial estate since November 2006.

Misamis Oriental Gov. Yevgeny Emano welcomed the investment of the Gotianun family but urged them “to do their best to protect the coastal seas of Misamis Oriental.”

“Most of our people in 23 of 24 municipalities are fishermen. The sea is their life. Please do your best to protect it,” Emano said.

Emano said the coal plant would be a welcome addition to Mindanao’s power grid that still needs more sources of electricity.

The Department of Energy had approved the construction of coal plants to answer Mindanao’s power requirement until 2030.

The 300-MW coal plant of Therma South Inc., a subsidiary of AboitizPower Corp., is expected go on commercial stream in 2015. The project is located in the boundary of Davao City and Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

The Alcantara-led Sarangani Energy Corp. is also building a 200-MW coal plant in Maasim, Sarangani. The first phase of 100 MW is expected to operate also in 2015. (Froilan Gallardo/MindaNews)

Solon invites public to musical show

By pia.gov.ph


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 22 – Cagayan de Oro City Council committee on tourism, continues to work and support plans and programs that will help improve the city’s tourism industry.

Councilor Lourdes Candy Darimbang, chair of the committee, announced that there will be a show called “Sunset Serenade” on November 23, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. at Rodelsa Circle (Rotonda).

The evening with Coral Music is promoted and sponsored by the Liceo de Cagayan University – College of Music under the management of Rodulfo Pelaez Golez, dean of the College of Music, she said.

The highlight of the event will be different types of musical renditions such as flute, guitar and other intermission numbers from the original Filipino composition for the choral singing. This will be presented by the students majoring in performance and pedagogy.

Religious songs and broadway musical classics in this musical extravaganza are also part of the program, said Darimbang as she invites the public to witness the event. (CdeOSP/PIA)

Climate change and apocalyptic events

By Dr. Bob Ocio


POLICY Makers debate about Climate Change but the turn of events may have already overtaken us.

Bangon Kagay-an Chairman Nixon Baban said his group has been inviting Leaders of civil society and groups, students and youth organizations that oppose the two new coal plants in Misamis Oriental to an organizational meeting on November 20, 2013.

Meanwhile, the hearing for the temporary environmental protection order (Tepo) pending at the Court of Appeals in connection with the granted Petitions for Writ of Kalikasan and Continuing Mandamus Against Illegal Mining in Cagayan de Oro City filed by Bangon Kagay-an, Inc. and private respondents Mora, Tiu, Abragan, Concepcion et. al. scheduled on November 20, 2013 has been postponed.

Sulog vs EMB and DENR

1. EMB Director says that the environmental clearance certificates are planning tools; SULOG says it is a "regulatory tool."

It was reported here at Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro that Sulog chairperson Orlan Ravanera questioned director Sabdullah Abubacar of the environment management bureau EMB) for saying that “the ECC is a planning tool to guide proponents in taking care of the environment.” Sulog’s statement said that an ECC as a planning tool is “not founded or supported by any policy or official statement of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) or by any other concerned government agencies.” Ravanera insisted that an ECC is a regulatory tool, referring to Presidential Decree No. 1586 (PD 1586) entitled “The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). PD 1586 under section 4 states that: “No person, partnership or corporation shall undertake or operate in any part such declared environmentally critical project (ECP) and environmentally critical area (ECA) without first securing ECC.”

2. On the 20 days policy to automatically approve ECCs

"Salbahis nga Policy" matud pa ni Save CDO Chairperson Ralph Abragan; "Illegal" according to Sulog.

“EMB director Abubacar affirmed Tawantawan’s statement by saying that in EMB they are only given 20 days to approve an ECC otherwise it is as good as approved. Sulog said the basis of the 20-day requirement is a memorandum from DENR Secretary Jose Atienza dated September 2, 2009. “How can a mere memorandum yield to a Presidential Decree (PD 1586) and other subsequent administrative orders?” asked Sulog.

Apocalyptic events rages on

A City-Sized Glacier Collapse – The makers of the movie Chasing Ice were able to capture on film the largest ice calving ever witnessed by humans (so far, but that might not be the last the way things are going with our planet's climate). It was the Jakobshavn Glacier (aka Ilulissat Glacier) in Western Greenland. The apocalyptic event lasted for more than an hour and when things stabilized, the glacier had retreated a full mile across a calving face three miles wide!

As we may all know, the melting of the glaciers are blamed for the increasing heat and temperature we are experiencing worldwide and the elevation of the water levels of the oceans which are blamed for the tsunami like storm surges in many parts of the world. Floods and tornado

As we are still monitoring developments of the condition of our countrymen in devastated Leyte, Samar and the Visayas area, we were fed with information that in the Middle East, there are devastating floods experienced in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and in Kuwait. Meanwhile too, in the Midwest, a powerful tornado devastated entire villages in Illinois, USA thereby flattening houses along the pathway of the tornado.

On November 19, 2013, six months of rainfall in 12 Hours strikes Italian island of Sardinia, 16 dead and two missing. A storm has killed at least 16 people on an Italian island of Sardinia, with two people unaccounted for and fears the death toll will rise, officials say.

Volcanic Eruptions: Indonesia's volcanoes, Mount Sinabung and Mount Merapi erupted Monday, November 18, 2013 spewing ash and causing another wave of mass evacuation in the country. Mount Sinabung, which has been erupting on and off since September this year, sent ash some 8,000 meters (26,000 feet) into the air, Agence France Presse reported. The latest eruption occurred Monday at 07:04 p.m. (local time).

The Apocalyptic events and the scripture: Twenty years ago, I figured out from different reading materials that there will come a time that the cities may soon no longer be livable. I thought, then, that probably, sustaining our basic needs therefore can be produced on the hills, and I did.

Today I thought, there is more urgency and logical sense to prepare for such kind of scenario as we are actually experiencing the same terrible disasters in the low lands by our own destructive behavior against the environment. I realized too, that the scripture and the prophesies related thereto are interrelated. In fact, I have been overwhelmed by the fast turn of events which I thought are coming much earlier than I would have expected them to happen.

“And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near,” reads Luke 21:25-28.

Of course human behavior will have its destructive consequences. Consider the scenario if Israel anytime today sees it fit to do a preemptive strike against Iran because they have already crossed the "red line" of nuclear capability. Consider if they would see a useless negotiation today between the US allies and Iran on the nuclear talks still about to be concluded. That would be far worse than the flooding and earthquakes which have come before the eyes of the world.

Messages of love, hope and conversion

A Catholic priest of Jagna, Bohol had this to say to Muslims survivors of the earthquake in Bohol. This is what I said to Datu Manung: "Datu, I'm Abet Uy, a Catholic priest assigned in Jagna. Me and my parishioners are here to give relief goods to your people. We want to show everyone that we, Christians and Muslims, help one another in times of need because we are brothers." And he answered me by saying: "You are right brother. People don't easily understand it. We are brothers, friends, not enemies." Lately, a picture of young people was posted playing basketball in the middle of the rubble in Tacloban. There is a constant call to pray for spiritual conversion, love and hope.

Tagoloan River Basin Council organization pushed

By Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, MISAMIS ORIENTAL, November 19 (PIA) – The technical working group for the Tagoloan River Basin organization held its third consultative meeting here on Tuesday, November 19, to review, assess, and plan the river’s conservation activities as well as the establishment of the Tagoloan River Basin Management Council.

This will be a replication to the Cagayan de Oro River Basin Management Council which was organized in November 2010. It will be chaired by the Bishop of Malaybalay and co-chaired by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) regional director and supported by four technical working groups (TWG) involving government agencies, local government units (LGUs), universities, and non-governmental organizations.

The TWG is currently consolidating an inter-agency work and financial plan (WFP) for 2014, which will be submitted to the Integrated Natural Resources and Environmental Management Project (INREMP) of DENR for funding consideration.

DENR Regional Technical Director Agustilo Obsioma emphasized the need to capture and integrate activities lined up by the LGUs and the Department of Agriculture and its corresponding bureaus.

Other stakeholders were likewise encouraged to prepare their own respective work and financial plan.

Meanwhile, the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of agreement among stakeholders is already set on December 6. (JCV/PIA)

TESDA Specialista Desk opened in Robinsons Mall,CdeO

By pia.gov.ph


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, November 19 (PIA) --- Amidst the heavy downpour spawned by Typhoon Zoraida, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority - Region 10 opened its “TESDA Specialista Desk” on November 11 at the Robinsons Mall, Limketkai Drive, Cagayan de Oro City.

“TESDA Specialista Desk which will be manned by a TESDA Staff aims to bring TESDA’s programs and services closer to the people”, Director Edgar A. Sales, TESDA 10 OIC-Regional Director, said.

He said it will cater to the youth and workers needing information on the various programs and services of TESDA.

The desk shall accommodate inquiries and referrals on the following: training programs, scholarship application requirements/available scholarship slots, assessment certification requirements/assessment schedules, and program registration. Pamphlets, brochures and other literature/advice on TESDA’s programs and services are also available.

The TESDA Specialista Desk is located at the Robinsons Mall Lingkod Pinoy Center (RMLPC) conceptualized by the Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC) as part of its corporate social responsibility and its desire to bring government services in one convenient location.

The RLC and TESDA forged the partnership last May 20, 2013 for mall space to be provided to TESDA under a rent free arrangement.

Sales together with TESDA Misamis Oriental Provincial Director Leo V. Velez led the opening of TESDA Specialista Desk as part of the Robinsons Mall Lingkod Pinoy Center launching graced by Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno. (HAED/TESDA-10/PIA-10)






Army contingents from CDO, Davao reach Baybay City in Leyte

By Froilan Gallardo


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY(MindaNews/18 November)- The two Army contingents that left Cagayan de Oro and Davao cities last weekend have reached typhoon-devastated Baybay City in Leyte on Sunday.

Col. Julian Pacatan Jr., commander of Task Force Diamond, said that although they found Baybay City devastated by super typhoon Yolanda, the “situation among the residents has stabilized” after relief goods have reached them earlier Saturday.

Pacatan described the devastation they saw as the Army contingents wind its way to Baybay City.

“We saw abandoned houses, felled coconut trees and downed electric poles along the highway but the situation has stabilized. The residents are no longer hungry,” he said.

Pacatan noted that plenty of food aid reached the city from Tacloban last Saturday.


He also said that communication in the city “has been restored,” with Globe Telecom running its system by generator, which forces shutdown several times a day.

Task Force Diamond left Cagayan de Oro Friday while Task Force Aguila left Davao City Saturday. Both contingents consisting of soldiers, doctors and engineers are veteran responders of typhoons Sendong and Pablo in Mindanao.

Pacatan said their contingent has already cleaned a school building and is presently repairing a hospital damaged by typhoon Yolanda.

He said their heavy equipment are clearing the roads of downed electric poles, trees and other debris.

“I never saw so much destruction but I was told that Tacloban was much worse than Baybay,” Pacatan told MindaNews by phone.

Pacatan said the four ferryboats that carried their convoy and other relief trucks used the two ports of Liloan and San Ricardo in Leyte from Lipata, Surigao del Norte.

As of Sunday, the Lipata port in Surigao City experienced congestion as hundreds of trucks carrying relief goods used it as jump-off point to the typhoon devastated areas in the Visayas.

Meanwhile, Araceli Solamillo, Department of Social Welfare and Development director for Region 10, said they received instruction from their national office to stop repacking food relief items after food aid from the United Nations and other countries started arriving in typhoon-affected areas.

The repacking centers at the Mt. Carmel Church in Barangay Carmen and DSWD regional office along Masterson Avenue this city grounded to a halt Sunday night.

“There is so much food packs in Leyte already. We are starting to reassess the other needs of the victims,” Solamillo said.

Solamillo said they are thinking of buying personal hygiene kits for women and kitchen utensils, which were popular items during typhoon Sendong, she said.

She said the DSWD regional office has spent P17 million, sent by the national government, to buy relief goods such as sardines, noodles and rice.

At one point last Friday, the DSWD has found it difficult to find suppliers of relief goods.

Solamillo said the volunteers who responded to the call of the DSWD managed to pack some 78,000 food packs since Tuesday.

“The volunteers did a wonderful job. Our first shipment was among the first to arrive in Tacloban and feed its hungry residents,” Solamillo said.

Volunteers from all walks of life, including typhoon Sendong victims, trooped to the DSWD relief centers and pack the food bags by hand.

Solamillo said they still have 15,000 relief bags awaiting shipment this week. (Froilan Gallardo/MindaNews)

Doomsday airsoft tilt set

By Correspondent Jade S. Violeta


A TOTAL of 15 airsoft teams coming from Cebu and all over the country will be exchanging firepower when they clash in the upcoming DOOMSDAY: “The 1st Johnny V. delos Reyes Airsoft Competition” slated this November 23 and 24 in Talisay City, Cebu. The teams expected to see action are Luzon’s Team Force, Southern Luzon’s Brat Legazpi, Team Airborne from Iloilo City and the Cagayan de Oro Team representing Mindanao. The Cebu teams who will be defending their turf against the visitors include the Askal, Boa, Seal, Diablo, Deep Recon, ATF, S.A.A.T, Trident Knights, Silver Arrows, M.A.G and Crack Legion. The tournament, which is being organized by Team Southern Cebu Airsoft Recon (S.C.A.R.) headed by its president Francis A. Jaca, in cooperation with the Guadalupe Airsoft Team (GAT) of Dionie Baylon, G-Concept of Jeson Guardo, the Talisay City Sports Commission and the Talisay City Local Government headed by Mayor Johnny V. Delos Reyes, will be for the benefit of the team’s different outreach programs for December 2013. Each team is composed of 21 players with 450 FPS per team. Those interested to join are requested to contact Ian through cell. nos. 09228680737 or Alex at 09223234467 for reservations.






EastMinCom soldiers off to Visayas to lend hand

By Richel V. Umel



THE Philippine Army’s Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) Task Force “Tambayayong” (helping together) simultaneously sent two contingents of soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) and 10th Infantry Division (10ID) Rescue, Relief and Rehabilitation team to Ormoc City and Leyte province by land trip via Surigao City on Friday afternoon.

The contingents include Task Group Diamond of the 4th ID and 10ID’s Task Group Aguila.

In a send-off ceremony Friday, Brigadier General Ricardo R. Visaya, 4ID commanding general, reminded the division’s 200 troops: “the guns that you carried are just for protection. The primary duty and responsibility is to help the people rise for a new beginning after the (Super Typhoon Yolanda) devastated the Visayas region particularly Leyte and Samar provinces that killed more than 2,300 lives and hundreds are still missing.”


Visaya also urged the New People's Army (NPA) to help rebuild the lives of the people in the disaster-stricken areas.

He said the team are composed of engineers, medical and rescue teams carrying their respective equipment for relief and rehabilitation.

The contingents will establish its command center in Ormoc City with coverage down to the southern part of Southern Leyte. They will stay in the areas on a “relieve basis,” where another team will sustain the work force of the first batch.

Visaya said the contingent sent to Leyte also responded after the tropical storms “Sendong” and “Pablo” hit Northern and Easter Mindanao areas in December 2011 and December 2012, respectively.

“They are highly trained and cable to respond in rehabilitation and relief operations,” Visaya added.

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)- Northern Mindanao has initially sent 20,000 pack of assorted goods for Ormoc City and Tacloban City.

Lawyer Araceli F. Solamillo, DSWD-Northern Mindanao director, said more than 500 volunteers packed relief goods.

A vessel owned by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau Fisheries and Aquatic Resources carrying tons of rice with relief goods left the port of Cagayan de Oro on Thursday evening and arrived in Tacloban City on Friday.

Solamillio said some social workers will bring more relief goods and food supplies to Leyte and Samar once transportation facilities will be available.






‘Yolanda’ draws student volunteers in CDO

By Froilan Gallardo


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews/15 November)- Unmindful of the heat, students from Liceo de Cagayan University High School, along with other volunteers that include victims of typhoon Sendong in 2011, filled little red plastic bags with rice, noodles, sardines and coffee at the basement of Mt. Carmel Church in Barangay Carmen here.

All of them worked hurriedly, as they need to pack as many little red bags as they could to help feed the starving victims of typhoon Yolanda in Leyte.

“I can not close my eyes and pretend that it did not happened. I have to help,” 15-year-old Abigail Roque said.

She said she immediately volunteered when their teachers asked them if they could go to Mt. Carmel Church and help in the repacking of relief goods.

“Even if we are students we can help. We have our hands and we will work hard. The victims in Leyte are starving and they need this bag,” Roque said.

In all, two class sections of around 40 students from Liceo de Cagayan University answered the call of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 10 office for volunteers.

Roque came with two of her friends—Rochelle Florigin Lumacad, 15, and Denise Loraine Garife, 15.

Together they scooped rice from a sack and carefully pour it to the red plastic bag. After finishing one bag, they would repeat it over and over again.

On that Tuesday afternoon, the students and the other volunteers packed 2,500 relief bags, which they placed in sacks ready for shipment to Leyte.

A little farther to the small basement room, Cobbie Karagdag, was carrying boxes of sardines to the small line of volunteers who were placing the goods to the plastic bags.

The line of volunteers were working very fast that Karagdag and the others had to work double time in supplying them with the boxes of sardines.

“I do not mind sweating and carrying the boxes. I just keep it in mind that people in Leyte are very hungry,” Karagdag, an insurance executive, said.

Karagdag came with his girlfriend, Paola Michelle Pilapil, who was also busy at the other end of the line.

A fashion model, Pilapil said volunteering to pack the bags was “very satisfying” knowing that you help feed the hungry in Leyte.

“If that tragedy happens to me and my family, I would also love to have someone helping us,” she said.

DSWD-10 Director Araceli Solamillo praised the 1,000 volunteers who responded to their call last Tuesday.

“The volunteers are our new heroes. We could not have shipped any relief goods without them. This is truly a Bayanihan spirit,” Solamillo said.

Solamillo said the volunteers were able to prepare at least 20,000 food packs since Tuesday, equally divided for shipment to the cities of Ormoc and Tacloban.

She said the DSWD has allotted P20 million to buy relief food packs for the victims of Typhoon Yolanda in Leyte and the rest of the Visayas affected by the calamity.

“We bought the sardines, noodles, rice and coffee but we need volunteers to pack them,’’ Solamillo said. (Froilan Gallardo/MindaNews)

Councilor wants trash bins inside public transports

By Loui S. Maliza


A CITY councilor of Cagayan de Oro wants to re-implement an existing ordinance that requires public utility vehicles to put in garbage bins as one of the waste management measures.

Garbage bins, according to City councilor Zaldy Ocon, is necessary so that passengers can put their garbage for proper disposal.

Ocon, chairman of the committee on environment, said it is saddening to see passengers, especially children, throw their garbage anywhere while onboard the jeepneys or on motorelas.

Ocon said he would persuade the jeepney operators, drivers and aides to participate in this environment protection effort.

He added that his committee would tap the Land Transportation and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) to partner with the city government for the re-implementation of the ordinance.

He said these three agencies are vital for the effective enforcement of the ordinance and to educate the drivers and the riding public.

“Ang ato ani panawagan man lang sa tanan,” Ocon said.

Loloy Gacus, 40, a jeepney driver, lauded the proposed bill in order to good to protect the environment.

“I agree that jeepneys should have trash bins because anyone will notice how passengers will just throw their garbage anywhere. Sometimes I’m tired of sweeping the floor of the jeepney I’m driving because of the litter. Ice wrappers, candy wrappers, fruit peelings. Even if I have a trash bin, they would still litter,” he said.

When asked if he already knew the ordinance, he affirmatively replied.

“I have been a jeepney driver for 10 years when I quit my job at a printing company. I am already aware of that law, that is why in every jeepney that I drive, I always see to it that I put in a can or a plastic container that would serve as garbage receptacle for the passengers’ use,” Gacus said.

DOST-SEI conducts i-Teach Math in CdeO

By Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 13 (PIA) – The Department of Science and Technology - Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) recently conducted here the last leg of the Mathematics Courseware and Tablet PC project, “i-Teach Math” (Improving Technology-Enhanced Activities for Creative Honing of Mathematics Skills) to Grade One mathematics teachers.

According to Teresita Baluyos of DOST region 10, this i-Teach Math is implemented in seven different clusters nationwide. The aim was to build and strengthen the capacity of teachers and their respective schools in using and learning the contents of the interactive Grade One mathematics courseware and to train them in applying and teaching the contents.

She explained that the training, however, did not only focus on the use of the technology package; it also demonstrated how pupils’ conceptual understanding of selected concepts in Grade One mathematics and mathematical reasoning can be enhanced.

She added that about 80 Grade One mathematics teachers from Regions 10, 11, 12 and ARMM participated in the training.

This program of DOST is in line with its slogan, “Science, Technology and Innovation: the Road to Smarter Philippines.”

“In time, students would love to learn mathematics, and math teachers would not be branded anymore as ‘terrors’ but student-friendly partners in making learning mathematics more fun and enjoyable,” concluded Baluyos. (JMOR/PIA/DOST)

DSWD to give P4M for ‘Yolanda’ victims

By Anjo Bacarisas and Nicole J. Managbanag

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development-10 (DSWD-10) said Monday it intends to allocate P4 million for the victims of ‘super’ typhoon Yolanda that ravaged the province of Leyte and other areas in the Visayas. “The DSWD-10 downloaded P4 million from their national office for the casualties intended for Yolanda in the region,” said Charmaine Tadlas, regional information officer of DSWD-10. Tadlas said it is possible that the money allocated for Yolanda victims in the region will be rechanneled to the victims in Tacloban City and to its neighboring provinces. “Gitagaan mi og memo on Monday sa DSWD national office to help the victims in Visayas (The DSWD national office sent us a memo to aid the victims of Yolanda in Visayas),” said Tadlas. She said they would be preparing 150,000 food packs for the victims of Yolanda in Visayas. Tadlas said the food packs would also include non-food items such as kitchen materials, mosquito nets, mats, towels and hygiene kits. Asked how long the DSWD-10 will support the displaced residents in those areas, Tadlas replied: “as the need arises.” NGO initiatives "We are stunned of the destruction brought by Yolanda in Eastern Visayas,” said Sr. Maria Famita N. Somogod, MSM, coordinator of the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines–Northern Mindanao Region (RMP-NMR). RMP-NMR is an inter-congregational and inter-diocesan association of priests and nuns extending humanitarian support for victims of disaster. She said they are now attending to the Yolanda victims in Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte and some parts of Caraga. “At present, we are also raising food and non-food relief items for their networks in Leyte, Cebu, Ilo-ilo and other parts of Visayas,” said Somogod. Somogod said they also have cash and goods that would be transported to RMP-Eastern Visayas for distribution. “We received goods from the local populace and our international networks,” said Somogod, adding that relief materials are now at the RMP-NMR’s office and other religious congregations in Bukidnon, and soon in Cagayan de Oro. Somogod said they have been efficient in their collection of relief materials because people can reach them through email (info@rmp-nmr.org) and their website. “We’ve also been receiving donations from people through our website,” said Somogod adding that their website, www.rmp-nmr.org, has detailed information on sending donations for typhoon Yolanda victims in Visayas and some parts in Mindanao. Meanwhile, the Junior Chamber International–Bai Lawanen, Inc. (JCI-Bai Lawanen) will be sending relief materials to the victims of Yolanda in the Visayas through a fund-raising activity. “We have this one-week ‘snack-all-you-can’ gimmick,” said Marbee Ocaya-de la Torre, president of JCI-Bai Lawanen. She added that their ‘snack-all-you-can’ gimmick is just P150 and part of it will be donated to the storm victims. De la Torre said their fund drive will last for a week, and that they are also using it as a drop-off center for donations. LGU donations In the spirit of ‘bayanihan’ the local government units, media outlets and other organizations are raising funds for the victims of Yolanda. Casiño-Rivera said the City Government is still discussing on the amount it can donate as it also sent P2-million to Bohol’s quake victims. Misamis Oriental Governor Yevgeny Vincente Emano pledged to support affected individuals and families in Tacloban by sourcing out funds from the industrial companies based in the province. “Helping the victims is our way of thanking God for sparing the province from the wrath of Yolanda,” said Emano. On the other hand, Capitol University (CU) also initiated help through their alumni association. Dr. Fe Juarez, CU vice-president, said they have coordinated with TV networks and local newspapers to extend relief efforts for casualties of Yolanda in Tacloban City. Juarez said: “CU will again mobilize its resources for our fellow Filipinos who are in need for our help.” Meanwhile, radio stations Bombo Radyo and RMN-DXCC are also accepting donations for the victims. GMA Network also launched Google's People Finder database. Armi Sobremisana, sales and marketing office of GMA Northern Mindanao, said the database will help locate people in Tacloban that relatives around the country are searching. If you are worried about someone in any of the areas hit by ‘super’ typhoon Yolanda, or if you're in the Visayas and want to inform your loved ones of your whereabouts the database will provide the answers,” she added.

CIDG abolishes Criminal Investigative Support

By Loui S. Maliza


DUE to the existence of a party-list with the same name, the Cagayan de Oro City’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) recently abolished the Criminal Investigative Support (CIS), a support group of the police in fighting against crimes at the community level.

CIDG Chief Senior Inspector Pepito Reyes said the abolition followed when the party-list Anti-Crime and Terrorism-Community Involvement and Support (ACT-CIS) won a seat in Congress.

Reyes said the name of the CIS, organized years back to boost community involvement against any forms of crimes and strengthen its force multiplier in the communities, can be tarnished due to the existence of ACT-CIS, which is a political organization.

According to the [CIDG-CIS website], the CIS was organized as a CIDG community relations program to enlist the active support of the community to help solve and suppress crimes and criminals.

“They are selected individuals of good moral character from the community or organized groups, based on recruitment and selection criteria set by CIDG, and who voluntarily offer services and other resources to this Group without compensation and material consideration,” the website added.

“They have the same (acronym), so the present leadership of the CIDG decided to abolish the group,” Reyes said.

“Our group (CIS) is apolitical in nature, so it should not be used in any activities that have political color. That’s why it was abolished,” he added.

Reyes said Samuel Pagdilao Jr., the former CIDG chief, now represents ACT-CIS in Congress.

Pagdilao, according to reports, had been active in supporting the CIS during his tenure.

He also personally came to Cagayan de Oro to administer the taking of oath of office of hundreds of new regular CIS recruits and Junior CIS who are students.

“The CIDG nowadays are purely confidential agents (CAs),” Reyes said. The regular members of the CIS were issued maroon t-shirts with a CIDG logo and a badge.

“That’s why today, we no longer allow the wearing of the (CIS) t-shirts, since they bear the CIDG logo,” he explained.

He even urged the public especially CIS members who are still active in their duties to refrain from wearing the CIS t-shirt and presenting their badge to authorities.

Reyes admitted the CIS was effective in helping the authorities in crime-busting.

(Another 'salvaged' victim?)

Meanwhile, the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) are still facing a blank wall on the identity of the victim who was believed killed and dumped in Sitio Aluba, Barangay Macasandig on Saturday morning.

Residents discovered the body with both hands tied with a cable tie. Residents said it was the third time they discovered a body dumped in the secluded part of the area.

The Scene of the Crime Operatives (Soco) recovered six empty shells of caliber .45 and 9mm pistol at the crime scene.

The victim’s body, according to Soco’s Dr. Christian Caballes, sustained 10 gunshot wounds in the body and head.

The Soco believed there were two to three suspects who killed the victim. The victim’s body lies at a funeral parlor in Barangay Bulua.

Too many cities in the Philippines

By Ben Emata



SPONSORING and filing a bill in Congress to convert a town into a city must be the easiest way to do as a lawmaker.

What a congressman does to pursue his bill is to read some sort of history of the place, the number of inhabitants, the area and location of the subject town and the probable taxes it can derive once it becomes a city.

It is simple and the beauty is nobody would argue or oppose it since the issue is local and, therefore, nobody has knowledge about it, which can be a basis for opposing it. In a short period of time Congress will approve the matter and certainly a place would become a city. No debates.

I am saying this because I noticed so many cities now exist anywhere, from Luzon, the Visayas and in Mindanao. There were places I knew to have just one highway and populated by not so many people but they are cities now. I know of some towns, which look deserted when darkness fall and they are cities now. I surmise many lawmakers who lack the educational capabilities just resort to converting of the towns in their territory into a city and let their constituents cheer for such heroic acts.

One thing in the countryside the people look at their congressman as a very honorable person in their place and, therefore, deserve high respect, honor and applause. The residents are too obedient and good followers of top officials in their place. If you notice when these representatives visit the barangays always the people will meet him with arches, band and dances. Then the town folks will prepare lavish parties to honor their leader.

These constituents do not know that their congressman is unheard in Congress and keeps quiet while session goes on. Many congressmen ask favors from their colleagues to file certain bills on their behalves perhaps with some considerations.

What I cannot understands is there are many things that they can do in Congress to improve the livelihood of their constituents. If they really have the right thinking they can help their town better than just converting it into a city.

At any rate, I always blame the electorates for voting the wrong candidates. But there is nothing they can do because in the very beginning, their votes have been fully paid via vote buying by these candidates.

This system has been part of our culture and nothing can stop this anymore. To many it is part of our lifestyle, which no one can dismantle. It is a way of life that people have loved so much. It is a fact that elections are always welcome by the people and many of us even die for it. It is crazy but there is nothing we can do.

City Health warns post-typhoon diseases

By Anjo Bacarisas


THE city health office of Cagayan de Oro has advised the public to be vigilant in terms of sanitation during and after Typhoon ‘Yolanda’ (international name: Haiyan) passed by Northern Mindanao on Friday, said Dr. Fe Bongcas, city health medical officer.

“Water-borne diseases, especially infectious diseases have always been plaguing flood survivors,” said Dr. Charles Marquez, a community medicine practitioner trained on emergency medicines.

Marquez said Acute Gastroenteritis (AG) has always been associated with the taking in of contaminated food, water, or the accidental ingestion of flood waters.

“Mostly affected by diseases after a flood are children and their mothers,” he said adding that the symptoms of AG involved diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and eventually dehydration.

He added that Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (UPTI) has been associated with floods.

“It is more prevalent in evacuation centers because of congestion, poor hygiene, poor sanitation, and poor nutrition,” said Marquez.

Symptoms of UPTI involve colds, coughs, fever, headache, and even vomiting.

Dengue

“Dengue is the number one expected disease on and after Yolanda,” Bongcas said, stressing again the general knowledge that dengue mosquitoes lay eggs on stagnant waters.

She added that their sanitary inspectors are disseminating information about health and sanitation.

“The local government units, especially the barangay should also be vigilant,” said Bongcas.

Bongcas pointed out that there is a movement by the Department of Health (DOH) in the barangay level against dengue called Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue (ABKD).

ABKD calls for a regular weekly cleaning activities headed by the village leaders, civil societies, community volunteers, among others.

Specifically, the program urges everyone to participate in an aggressive clean-up drive in possible mosquito breeding grounds to combat the spread of dengue especially during rainy season.

ABKD started last 2011.

She said dengue is not just the concern of the leaders and government officials but of the entire community.

“If there’s a village that do not participate, the dengue carrying mosquitoes in that area will spread to villages that are vigilant towards dengue,” said Bongcas.

Pre-emptive measures

“The people should keep themselves fit,” said Bongcas referring to the families not in the evacuation centers.

She added that the people should exercise and eat healthy foods to protect themselves from diseases.

“Dispose all the stagnant waters, including those waters flower vases,” said Bongcas, adding that even those flower containers can be a breeding ground for dengue mosquitoes.

Water that remains stagnant for 24 hours can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, especially in tires.

She said that bromeliads, a flowering plant, should be cleaned out of water every day.

Some bromeliads have a “tank habit” that help the plant capture water, and it can be a breeding ground for dengue mosquitoes.

Marquez said on pre-emptive measures: “Health care shall be given priority, especially in preventive and primary health care in order to improve sanitation and hygiene practices.”

He added that empowering the communities through “strengthening and implementing community-based health programs” to equip the people on emergency and community-oriented health care.

“Prevention is much more effective if the local government unit will create disaster risk reduction programs,” said Marquez, recognizing the vital role of individual homes in the prevention.

Other diseases

“If there is flood, leptospirosis is possible,” said Bongcas, adding that the bacteria can enter the human body through an open wound that had contact with a water or soil contaminated with animal urine, most commonly rat urine.

Marquez added that leptospirosis has been the dreaded disease during floods.

“High-risk population includes those with skin breaks, wounds in contact with dirty flood waters,” said Marquez.

Leptospira is the bacteria that cause leptospirosis that came from animal wastes.

Diarrhea, also known as loose bowel movement (LBM) can also be possible when one unknowingly drinks contaminated water.






Oro, MisOr order forced evacuation

By Loui S. Maliza and Nicole J. Managbanag


MICHELLE Valles left her house in Barangay Macasandig early Thursday morning to avoid the horrible experience her family went through when Tropical Storm Sendong ravaged the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan in December 2011.

Sendong claimed around 500 lives in Macasandig alone.

“My children and I were trapped inside a dilapidated house outside of our residence for six hours… I don’t want that to happen again,” she said.

Helen Guna with her two children from sitio Tambo also in Barangay Macasandig, voluntarily evacuated fearing Yolanda. Tambo had the most devastation during Sendong.

Guna’s house was totally washed out during Sendong.

In sitio Tibasak most of the residents have already left their houses. However, some male residents opted to stay to secure their houses from possible theft.

Sirens sounded

On Wednesday evening, sirens were sounded in Barangays Macasandig and Consolacion to signal the people to move out from their homes and proceed to the evacuation centers or other shelters provided by churches, private schools and nongovernment organizations.

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno, who just arrived from his trip in Japan, ordered a forced preventive evacuation on vulnerable sectors around 3 p.m. Thursday. Dump trucks and fire trucks went around barangays Macasandig, Balulang and Consolacion to transport residents to designated evacuation centers.

All City Disaster Risk Reduction Managament Office (CDRRMO) vehicles available made the rounds in those areas to forcibly pull out remaining families who refused to be evacuated.

Moreno also ordered that employees of the city hall, except those involved or have volunteered in disaster management Task Force Yolanda, have been advised to go home Thursday afternoon.

“We want to secure the elderly, children, sick people and pregnant women to the evacuation centers,” Maricel Casiño-Rivera, city information officer, said.

Evacuation centers

City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) head Teddy Sabugaa, in charge of the evacuation centers, sent out initial food supplies to the evacuation centers.

As of 1 p.m. Thursday, the CDRRMO recorded 1,538 families evacuated (7,110 persons) in 36 evacuation centers.

At the KM 5 evacuation center, there are 60 families; Bulua covered court, 50 families; Calaanan covered court, 20; Canitoan women’s building 15; Bonbon elementary school, 100; Carmen covered court, 50 families, West City Central School, 50 families; City Central School, 60; Macasandig covered court, 44; Macasandig elementary school, 166; Nazareth covered court, 3; South City Central School, 12; and Tablon covered court, 332.

Telecommunication companies (telcos) also set up booths at the entrance of Macasandig covered court.

The telcos aimed to provide free call and free cellphone charging to evacuees who wish to avail of the free services.

The CDRRMO has set up a response and communications center at the Kiosko sa Kagawasan in Divisoria.

MisOr forced evacuation

Misamis Oriental Governor Yevgeny Vincente Emano, who also heads the provincial disaster risk reduction management council (PDRRMC), ordered a pre-emptive evacuation on 12 of the 23 municipalities of the province. Classes in all levels have also been suspended until Friday.

Provincial administrator Edmundo Pacamalan Jr. is the one in charge of the operations.

As of noon Thursday, 1,061 families or 5,305 individuals have been evacuated to 30 different evacuation centers in the province.

Forced evacuation of about 500 families was conducted in Libertad town as of 5 p.m. Wednesday.

There are 424 barangays in the province, 124 of them vulnerable to risk such as flashfloods and landslides with 17,000 individuals or 4,900 families.

Areas prone to flooding in the province include Balingasag (Daku Water Basin), Libertad, Binuangan, Talisayan, Opol, Claveria, Manticao, Naawan, El Salvador, Tagoloan, and parts of Gingoog and Magsaysay.

Emano also noted 60 percent of Misamis Oriental is prone to landslide due to heavy rains: Balingasag, Lagonglong, Claveria, Naawan, Manticao, Lugait, Libertad, part of Gingoog.

Emano admitted the province lacks the equipment, with only 30 percent of them working when he assumed office.

But, heavy equipment such as graders and payloaders are ready to be used to respond to possible landslides in some areas of the province. Whistles, megaphones, fire extinguishers are also available.

“The Provincial Capitol is 100 percent ready, but in the field it’s only 25 ready. We need everybody’s help,” he said, adding that he would send department heads to the field if necessary.

“Better to be prepared. (We are) hoping for the best but (we are preparing) for the worst,” he added.

The PDRRMC immediately purchased handheld VHF radios, additional mats, blankets, and candles worth P300,000 on Thursday.

Relief goods

The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) said it has readied more than a thousand packs of food and non-food items for the evacuees consisting each of three kilos rice, easy-to-open cans of sardines, noodles, beef loaf, match, sleeping mats, malong (blanket), etc.

Schools under the provincial schools division were also readied for the evacuees.

Sanitation and hygiene needs such as liquid chlorine for drinking water of at least 6,000 containers were also being prepared.

Medical teams composed of nurses, midwives, doctors and medical technologists, as well as stress-debriefing experts, are on standby. Experts on stress debriefing Medicines are also available.

The PDRRMC said it has coordinated with the provincial hospitals in Gingoog, Alubijid and Magsaysay.

Volunteers

The 58th Infantry Battalion (58IB) in Claveria has deployed two squads in Gingoog, two squads in Tagoloan, one in Manticao and Naawan, three in Jasaan, one in El Salvador with eight cargo trucks ready for evacuation and rescue operations, said Major Ed Abaño, 58IB deputy commander.

Meanwhile, a team from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) has geared up for the upcoming storm.

Air Force Master Sergeant Abel Idusma of the PAF’s Tactical Operations Group-10 based in Barangay Lumbia, said they have around 100 volunteer servicemen who are willing to help in rescue operation. Idusma said they are waiting for orders from the CDRRMO.

Coastal barangays evacuated

In Kauswagan town in Lanao del Norte, residents living in six coastal barangays have been forcibly evacuated.

Ritzel Alivio, Kauswagan town executive secretary told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro barangays affected are Kawit Oriental and Occidental, Tacub, Tugar, Poblacion and Libertad to prevent loss of lives, injuries and damage to properties.

Alivio said that in last year's typhoon Pablo several residences were damaged by the storm surge. The MDRRMC had set up a command center inside the Kauswagan gymnasium.

The Municipal Social Welfare Office, rescue team, engineering, line agencies, Philippine National Police and the military had pooled resources to provide augmentation support to effect the pre-emptive evacuation based on the directive of Mayor Rommel C. Arando who is on official travel, Alivio said.

Some of the evacuees were accommodated in elementary school buildings in barangays Kawit Oriental and Lapayan while others are seeking shelter inside the gymnasium. The 15th Infantry Battalion and 3rd Cavalry Squadron of the Philippine Army rescue unit were on standby for any eventualities that may occur as Yolanda hits land.

On Thursday afternoon, two flights at the Laguindingan Airport were canceled. (With Reports from Cai D. Panlilio, Richel V. Umel, Correspondents)







Northern Mindanao braces for Typhoon Yolanda

By Anjo Bacarisas and Nicole J. Managbanag


RESIDENTS in Northern Mindanao region will brace for one of the “most intense if not the strongest” storm that will hit the country this year as it enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) early today, Thursday, and make its landfall in Eastern Visayas by Friday.

The Joint Typhoon Warning Center, in an article in Washingtonpost.com, estimates that the maximum sustained winds are 120 miles per hour (mph), and is equal to three hurricanes.

All disaster risk reduction management councils in region have been convened by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Wednesday.

DILG regional director Rene Burdeos said Yolanda could be a very destructive typhoon when it enters the country and hits land.

Burdeos advised the local government units to activate their disaster risk reduction management councils (DRRMCs) to mitigate the impact of loss of lives and damage to properties when Yolanda hits land by Friday.

Pre-emptive response

Ret. Col. Ramon Verner Monsanto of the Oro DRRMC has put its disaster response team and rescue units on 24/7 high alert.

Monsanto gathered all local officials and different sectors Wednesday for the final briefing of the preparations.

The City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) headed by Teddy Sabugaa assured that basic needs such as water and foods are readily available in case Yolanda will bring damage to Oro communities.

He said the CSWD has already assigned trained personnel to handle orderly distribution of relief goods, medical and counseling services.

The Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) already sealed its water boosting stations as part of its preventive measures for Yolanda.

The city fire department ensures the 100 water tanks in all evacuation centers are filled.

The City Public Services office and the military’s 4th Infantry Division based here are also preparing their vehicles for any possible evacuations.

The rivers in Barangays Iponan, Tablon, Bugo and in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental have been closely monitored.

Monsanto said the Oro Rescue is up 24/7, and that rubber boats and patrol boats are ready should disaster result when Yolanda hits land.

The CDRRMO welcomes support from groups, volunteers, civic organizations, nongovernment organizations (NGOs) and companies that are willing to help in the pre-emptive response, rescue and relief operations.

Part of the pre-emptive response is clearing the surroundings by cutting trees and other obstructions that may damage structures like houses. To strengthen the weak spots of houses, repairs should be done the soonest for the structures to stand against strong winds.

In flood prone and landslide areas, residents have been briefed on what to do by their barangay DRRMCs.

Monsanto said the best that people can do in the face of dangers is never panic. Instead, listening to instructions by the barangay leaders is the best option.

The area-wide warning and alarm systems whether stationary or portable have been activated.

Engr. Jofferdale Gallamaso of Xavier University weather warned that based on their monitoring the high sea temperature indicates Yolanda will be much stronger compared with the previous typhoons.

Gallamaso assured that the XU-DRRM program covering danger zone barangays has equipped them with mitigation and response through training and planning.

Gallamaso said XU will be open to the city’s residents when disaster strikes.

Elevated areas

“We have identified areas near us that are elevated,” said Ernie Garcia, a resident from Sitio San Lazaro, Barangay Lapasan.

He added that he and his family is planning to rush to Galaxy in Barangay Gusa in case the water in their area would rise.

Garcia said that some of his neighbors are planning to find safety in SM area in Upper Carmen if worse comes to worst.

“During (Tropical Storm) Sendong, the area near Galaxy was not flooded or at any how affected by the typhoon,” said Garcia, on why he chose the place to temporarily relocate his family.

Charles Abcede, a resident from Barangay Kauswagan, is thinking of seeking refuge in Xavier Estates in Upper Balulang because it is elevated and his family has lots of friends in the said posh subdivision.

Jonny Saraos, a student from Balingasag, Misamis Oriental, whose boarding house is in Capistrano this city, said he is thinking of taking refuge at Centrio Mall in case the floodwaters will swarm his room.

Animal evacuation center

City Veterinary head Dr. Perla J. Asis said an evacuation center for animals has been put up in Upper Lumbia at the Capitol University ranched owned by Juarez family.

The City Vet Office will rescue all animals that would be left behind as massive evacuation would be ordered.

Pet owners can call the City Vet’s hotline number 09177199459 whenever they need help to rescue their pets or any other domestic animals. All rescued animals will be temporarily sheltered and provided with food and water.

The owners could retrieve them soon as the storm ebbs.

Asis reminds residents who have domestic or pet animals to unleash them since they have survival instincts just like the humans.

In the devastating Typhoon Sendong, dead animals retrieved died because they were tied.

Iligan

In Iligan City, Mayor Celso Regencia opened 41 evacuation centers to be utilized should massive evacuation arises.

The Philippine Red Cross, Philippine Coast Guard, the army and rescue volunteers have been alerted for possible mobilization. Cesar Yamuta, DRRMC chief, and Alan Padilla of DRRMC operations center, have readied the equipment for rescue such as rubber boats, ambulance, ropes and other rescue equipment.

Hinaplanon Barangay Chairman Nick Echavez told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro that the Mandulog River is being closely monitored.

Hinaplanon was the hardest hit barangay in Iligan after Sendong sent flashflood with thick mud and cut logs down Mandulog River that rammed houses and even destroyed the bridge.

Echavez said," We have prepared gongs in every purok, ropes, flashlights, food supplies, radio transceivers, medical team and vehicles for massive evacuation.

Echavez said the City Government aims at zero-casualty. (With Richel V. Umel)

Oplan zero casualty up in CDO

By Camcer Ordonez Imam


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The local government of Cagayan de Oro and its City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) are aiming for a zero casualty should super typhoon “Yolanda” make its landfall here in Northern Mindanao.

Aside from Cagayan de Oro, the province of Misamis Oriental has also mobilized its disaster response teams in anticipation of the reported coming of super typhoon “Yolanda” either on Thursday or Friday.

City Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas said they are aiming for a “zero-casualty” in the city as the CDRRMC prepares for any eventuality.

Acenas said monitoring of the weather disturbance is made 24 hours until Yolanda leaves the Philippines.

He said an alarm system is in place using fire trucks to warn residents living near the Cagayan River should evacuation is already necessary.

Acenas said communication lines with all barangays have been put in place, connecting them to the command center at City Hall.

In Misamis Oriental, provincial administrator Jun Pacamalan said they have activated their quick response teams and did an inventory of its equipment, manpower, and food stock.

Pacamalan said while rescue team members who had slept over at the Provincial Capitol during Typhoon Wilma have left for their homes, they all remain on red alert status and will be on their post when “Yolanda” makes landfall .

All municipal governments have also been put on red alert status, especially for areas that are prone to flooding and landslide, with established communication lines and active rescue teams and volunteer groups.

The province’s three rubber boats have been readied for use. However, it admitted that there is a need to add some in its stock of food.

Misamis Oriental Gov. Yevgeny Vincente Emano on Monday manned the communication center at the provincial capitol at the height of heavy rains brought by Typhoon Wilma.

Cops nab Carmen robbery suspect

By (LSM)


THE Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) arrested on Monday noon a suspect in a robbery of a travel and ticketing agency in Carmen on October 30.

Senior Inspector Alfredo Ortiz Jr., Carmen Police Station chief, said the suspect used two identities — Elmon Tubay Silvosa and Art G. Tubay.

Ortiz said the suspect is 31 years old, single, and a native of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur.

Together with Senior Police Officer 1 Roger Enguito and Police Officer 3 Javien, Ortiz and his team arrested the suspect after a continuous follow-up operation since he robbed A and D Travelling and Ticketing agency on Max Suniel Street in Carmen.

He said they were able to recover from the suspect’s possession several identification and automated teller machine (ATM) cards of the establishment owner.

Two identification cards of the suspect with his two names specified therein were also recovered, he added.

They also recovered a sachet of suspected shabu from the suspect, Ortiz said.

He said the suspect admitted the crimes and was positively identified by the owner who was allegedly raped by the suspect.

The suspect is now detained for case filing.

Flood prone areas in CdeO warned of TD Wilma landfall

By Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 4 (PIA) – The City Disaster Risk Reduction Management (CDRRM) here, in coordination with the City Info Network, advised residents in flood prone areas to be prepared for Tropical Depression (TD) Wilma in its landfall today.

According to Col Mario Verner S. Monsanto, CDRRM Officer, flood prone areas in the city include Barangay Bulua, Iponan, Bayabas, Kauswagan, Bonbon, Carmen, Macabalan, Puntod, Consolacion, Balulang, Macasandig, Lapasan, Gusa, Cugman, Tablon, Bugo, Agusan, Taglimao and portions of Pigsag-an and Tuburan.

Meanwhile residents in landslide prone areas are also cautioned such as in hinterland barangays in upper Dagong, Carmen, Kulambog, Lapasan and portions of Lumbia.

In its advisory, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services (PAGASA) issued Public Storm Signal No. 1 in Mindanao particularly in Dinagat Island, Surigao del Norte including Siargao Island, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Camiguin Island and Northern part of Zamboanga Del Norte.

The estimated rainfall amount is from 10.0 - 25.0 mm per hour (heavy - intense) within the 300 km diameter of the Tropical Depression.

PAGASA said areas under Public Storm Warning Signal #1 are alerted against possible flashfloods and landslides. Further, the public and the disaster risk reduction and management council concerned are advised to take appropriate actions and watch for the next bulletin to be issued at 5:00 p.m. today.

According to PAGASA, TD Wilma is forecasted to make its landfall in Surigao del Sur in this afternoon, and will be at 40 km West of Dumaguete City following morning and in the vicinity of Puerto Princesa City by Wednesday morning. By Thursday morning, it is expected to be at 440 km West of Puerto Princesa City or outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

Pig farm owner seeks dialogue with NPA, military, workers

By Gerry Lee Gorit


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines – The owner of a pig farm in Libona, Bukidnon whose hogs were killed by the New People’s Army last week has called for a dialogue with his workers, the military and a representative of the NPA.

Mega Farm owner See Hong said the dialogue would try to address salary grievances among his workers that the NPA said was the reason why they attacked the farm.

He said his piggery and poultry farm resumed operations on Saturday although the workforce constitutes only 60 percent of the total number.

Last Wednesday, NPA fighters disarmed the security guards of the farm, burned some property, and shot dead more than 50 pigs and wounded about 500 more.

Capt. Christian Uy, spokesman for the Philippine Army 4th Infantry Division based in neighboring Cagayan de Oro City, said the NPA group that attacked Mega Farm was the same group that recently attacked the Agrinanas agricultural business in the same municipality and the Del Monte plant in neighboring Manolo Fortich.

He also said that the NPA fighters in Bukidnon belong to same group in Misamis Oriental, and the military has continued its pursuit operations against the rebels in their suspected areas of consolidation.

Uy earlier said that the NPA could have staged the attack because of the collection of “revolutionary taxes.”







ALA-Cobra boxing in CDO on Nov. 23=

By Dale G. Rosal


Some of the best boxers from the southern part of the country will be seeing action in the ALA-Cobra Tunay Na Lakas fight card in Cagayan de Oro City on Nov. 23. The fight card is free to the public and is organized by ALA Promotions in partnership with Cobra Energy Drink. The Cagayan de Oro City government headed by Mayor Oscar Moreno is also supporting the event. Leading the list of contenders is ALA Boxing Gym’s featherweight prospect Jimmy “Popeye” Paypa, who will go up against Jovill “El Pancho” Marayan in the main event of the fight card. Paypa, who holds a record of 14 wins (four knockouts) with two losses, is a native of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte in Mindanao. He will be fighting Marayan, a journeyman with a record of 8-14-3 (win-loss-draw) with three knockouts. Their fight is a 10-rounder under the featherweight division. Paypa is currently on a 12-bout win streak. His recent victim was Jason Redondo, who he beat last Sept. 25 via unanimous decision in Balamban town, western Cebu. Another ALA Boxing gym pug Albert Villacampa (15-6-1, 3 KOs) of Cebu City will exchange punches with Butuan City’s Roger Echavez (7-10-1, 4 KOs) in the co-main event of the fight card. Both will be fighting under the 112-pound division. ALA Boxing Gym’s amateur standout and the up-and-coming Vic “Vicious” Saludar (2-0, 2 KOs) will face Powell Balaba (7-9-1, 4 KOs) of Bohol for six rounds under the 109-pound division. Lito Dante (6-3-3,3KOs) of Tagbilaran City, Bohol and Jovel Romasasa (10-11,4KOs) of General Santos City will provide action in the undercard bout for under the 126-pound division. Home bets from Cagayan de Oro City will also be seeing action headed by Junuel Lacar, who will be fighting Paolo Peroño of General Santos City under the 126-pound division. Another Kagay-anon boxer, Freddie Bisande, will go up against fellow CDO native Junjie Codella in the opening bout.

Cops arrest minor in girl’s murder

By Loui S. Maliza


THE Crime Against Person and Property Desk (CAPPD) of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) arrested Wednesday on afternoon the suspect behind the killing of a nine-year-old girl in barangay Carmen more than a week ago.

CAPPD chief Senior Inspector Ariel Philip Pontillas said the suspect, a minor aged 15, is the victim’s neighbor.

The suspect has been named Ryo to withhold his real identity following the guidelines of covering minors involved in crimes.

Pontillas said Ryo was last seen with the victim Paula (not her real name) according to a witness who is Paula’s classmate.

Upon learning Ryo’s address, the police arrested him in his house. Ryo lives a few meters from the victim’s house.

As the police quizzed the suspect, they didn’t ask him who did the crime. But, later on, the suspect cried in front of the interrogating officers and his mother and admitted the crime, Pontillas said.

But, when reporters asked Ryo if he raped and killed Paula, he denied it.

Pontillas said Ryo could be recommended for rehabilitation at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) since he is a minor, but once he turns 18 he will be facing the charges.

‘Johnny,’ the father of the victim, said he believes it was Ryo who did the crime, but he wasn’t alone doing it. He also believes another one is out there scot-free since the witness saw two boys who were with Paula.

Pontillas said the investigation is on-going should there be another suspect it will be covered.

Johnny said Ryo is a known thief in the neighborhood and who is the member of the rubgy boys in the area.

Johnny regretted why it took them long to report the incident to the police.

In an interview with the suspect on TV Patrol Northern Mindanao, Ryo said he did it to revenge against Paula’s brother who he had a brawl with recently.

Ryo also admitted he had been influenced by the piso-piso net. The piso-piso net would allow those who surfed the net without restrictions and may have opened adult sites.

Paula was discovered dead inside an abandoned house after passersby smelled pungent odor along Acacia Street in Carmen on Wednesday. After the smell was tracked, they found Paula. It was the eighth day of her disappearance.

Police report showed, she had several bruises in the head and on different parts of her body, which could have caused her death.

The Scene of the Crime Operatives (Soco) suspected Paula was raped before she was killed, but it has to be determined yet in a thorough examination.






Rebels raid pig farm in Bukidnon

By Loui S. Maliza


SUSPECTED members of the New People’s Army (NPA) belonging to Front 68 raided a privately-owned pig farm in Purok 5, Sil-ipon village in Libona town, Bukidnon, around 6:30 a.m. Wednesday, the military said.

Captain Christian Uy, spokesman of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID), said about 30 rebels torched the staff house of Mega Farms located in the area.

Uy said the 4ID immediately sent troops to augment the military presence there and track down the rebels.

He said the rebels’ attack was motivated by the latter's intention to extort the company of revolutionary taxes and sabotage the comfortable living conditions of the residents there.

“Kung atong basahon ang ilang intensiyon, usa na ang pangikik nila sa kompanya ug gusto nila i-sabotahe ang panginabuhi sa katawhan. Kung ang tawo man gud nga wala nay kaligotgot sa gobyerno ug gusto lang manginabuhi, dili na mouban sa ilaha (If we read their intension, extorting the company is one while they tried to sabotage the source of income of the residents. If the people don’t hate the government and all they want is earn a living, they won’t join them (rebels),” Uy added.

He said the rebels also burned a heavy equipment of another private farm, the Agri Ventures Inc., located nearby.

Not rebel-infested

Uy said the area is not rebel-infested. “They (rebels) would just be present at the area if they would plan an attack.”

At press time, Uy added, they have yet to determine the total amount of damages.

But in a radio interview, a resident in the area who witnessed the attack said he saw about 50 rebels torched the staff house, tied the security guards and stabbed to death the pigs inside the farm.

Local television reports said more than 500 pigs were killed.

The farm’s 20-man security force was outnumbered by the rebels, the witness said.

The witness, who refused to be named, said the rebels were on foot, and they did not use any getaway vehicles.

It was possible, he added, that the rebels went down from the mountains of Sil-ipon to the Mega Farms.

The witness said on radio that he didn’t fear the rebels believing the insurgents would not hurt civilians.

But he said he was 50 meters away from the farm and did not see the rebels carrying something away from the farm when they withdrew.

Carlito Simpana, one of the security guards, said on TV the rebels assured them they won’t be harmed since they (security guards) are poor.

“They said we need not worry because they raided the farm since the workers are paid cheap and the farm is also harming the environment,” Simpana said.

He said the rebels brought with them the chief security of Mega Farms while they were retreating after the raid. The guard's hands were tied. Then, the rebels released him later.

Simpana said the rebels took 14 handguns and cellphones from the security guard.

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