Difference between revisions of "Davao Oriental News"

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<center>[[Davao Oriental Province, Philippines|<font size=4>'''Province of Davao Oriental'''</font>]] - [[Davao Oriental Archived News|<font size=4 color=green>'''Archived News'''</font>]]</center>
<center>[[Davao Oriental Province, Philippines|<font size=4>'''Province of Davao Oriental'''</font>]] - [[Davao Oriental Archived News|<font size=4 color=green>'''Archived News'''</font>]]</center>
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==Military Turns Over Infra Projects==
==DavOr nets P8.6 M from quarry and mine revenues==
*Source: http://mb.com.ph/articles/357573/military-turns-over-infra-projects
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R11&article=1541336638373
*By: mb.com.ph
*By: Rudolf Ian G. Alama
*''April 20, 2012''
*''Friday, May 11, 2012''


A total of five barangay infrastructure projects (BIPs) worth P10 million recommended through the Philippine Army’s Kalayaan sa Barangay Project (KBP) were turned over on Wednesday to the residents of Banaybanay, Davao Oriental.
MATI CITY, Davao Oriental- The provincial government earned P8,594,538.14 from sand, gravel and mining operations in the from January to April this year.


Major Rosa Maria Christina Manuel, executive officer of the 10th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, said the projects comprised of the Pintatagan Bridge, Puntalinao Water System Expansion, San Vicente Water System Expansion, Sitio Buhangin Footbridge and Mapagba port.
This was a result of the establishment of Mobile Monitoring Points conducted by the Environment and Natural Resources Office-Davao Oriental (ENRO-DO), and the regular conduct of site inspections and verification of sand, gravel and mining operations.


She said the organizers pushed the inauguration and turnover of the P3.76-million BIP-Mapagba boat landing despite heavy rains Wednesday.
A report prepared by ENRO Team Leader Derbert B. General revealed that the collected revenues came from extraction fees for sand, gravel and mining. The team has regularly conducted mobile monitoring across the province.


“The BIPs aim to accelerate economic growth in Mindanao and ensure that as many people as possible benefit from the said economic growth,” Manuel said.
The team also conducted a site inspection and verification in all barangays with possible quarry outlets within the City of Mati, Lupon, San Isidro and Governor Generoso towns.


The Growth Equity for Mindanao (GEM)-United States Assistance for International Development (USAID) supported the projects on which the benefits are equitably distributed and to help bring about and consolidate peace in the area.
They also conducted mobile patrolling at night within the vicinities of the City of Mati to check on the validity of documents used in the transport of mineral and forest products.


Meanwhile, the turnover of the port was graced by Davao Oriental Vice Governor Mayo Almario, councilors from Banaybanay and representatives from GEM, USAID.
General also said that on January 2012, the collected revenue was recorded at P1,850,191.66, on February it reached P3,631,428.36, on March, P195,280.08 and in April – P2,917,638.04, for a total of P8,594,538.14.


==Dos and don’ts in handling ‘dugongs’ out soon==
The provincial government of Davao Oriental under Governor Corazon T. Nuñez-Malanyaon allows the business sector to engage in sand and gravel operation for the improvement of Davornons provided that the extraction of sand and gravel shall be done without harming the environment. The government also collects revenues for the implementation of projects for the improvement of the province.
*Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/176861/dos-and-donts-in-handling-dugongs-out-soon
*By: Kristine L. Alave
*''April 15, 2012''


What are the odds of finding a dugong (sea cow) or a whale at your doorstep?
OIC-ENRO Dante M. Ganir said that barangays where the operation of sand and gravel is located will receive 40 per cent share from the total amount of the collected revenue, 30 per cent will go to the city or municipality and 30 per cent share to the provincial government.


While the answer could be one in several dozens of digits, the head of a conservation group and a bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources are preparing guidelines on how to handle the animals. Just in case.
==1st coconut congress to be held in Davao Oriental==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1591336453307
*By: Neela Duallo
*''Wednesday, May 09, 2012''


AA Yaptinchay, a veterinarian and head of the Marine Wildlife Watch Philippines (MWWP), has teamed up with the DENR-Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) to draft guidelines on the rescue and retrieval of dugongs stranded in shallow coastal areas.
MATI, Davao Oriental- The Provincial Coconut Industry Development Council (PCIDC) will conduct the first Davao Oriental Coconut Industry Business Congress in pursuit to the aggressive and collective campaign of the province to develop the industry being one of the leading coconut producers in the country.


The guidelines, which will be ready next year, would give people step-by-step procedures on the rescue of dugongs and turtles, Yaptinchay said. PAWB will also conduct awareness campaigns in coastal towns and teach residents the basics of giving first-aid to beached marine animals, he added.
The congress will be held on May 10 to 11 at the Lanes Kita-anan, Bonifacio Street in Mati City.


Reports abound about the dugong, the largest sea-living mammal in the Philippines, getting caught in fishing nets, being stranded and drowning. They also have been hunted down, PAWB said. According to Yaptinchay, beached whales, dugong and turtles have become common sights in some areas of the country.
Department of Agriculture (DA) secretary Proceso Alcala will grace the activity along with other DA regional and local officials. Also expected to grace the two-day congress would be Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) administrator Euplides Forbes and former senator Wigberto Tanada of the Coconut Industry Investment Fund (CIIF).


Unaware that these animals belong to protected species, some residents simply gawk at the animals while recording their last breath on the cameras of their mobile phones. Others kill stranded creatures for their meat and shell, Yaptinchay said.
With the most fitting theme “Industriya ng Niyog ay Palaganapin at Pagyamanin Upang Kasaganaan at Kaunlaran ay Makamtan Natin,” the business congress also aims to emphasize on increasing productivity and expanding value-adding to coconut, thus, giving more substance to Davao Oriental as the one of the leading coconut-producing province in the country.


He said recently, several dugongs have drowned after getting caught in fishing nets in '''Mati, Davao Oriental'''. “Early last year, up to four dugongs died during a three-month period,” he said.
The activity is an ample venue where the province can formally present the provincial strategic development plan for 2012 to 2016 and mechanisms for the plan implementation, promotion and offer market-driven value adding business opportunities for the coconut farmers and an opportunity also where the province, through the provincial coconut development council, can submit proposals on coconut development related to programs and projects tapping the resources of the Dept. of Agriculture (DA), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the Coconut Industry Industrialization Fund (CIIDF), and present resolutions and proposals for policy action.


“The release of turtles is commonly seen in the news, but a lot of them are not done properly. Hopefully this will be corrected with the issuance of the release guidelines,” he said.
This came after the creation of the Provincial Coconut Industry Development Council was approved recently by the 13th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao Oriental.


Yaptinchay reminded communities that dugongs, whales or turtles caught in fishing nets should be released immediately to the sea. A stranded animal, on the other hand, requires more attention.
The council started as an Executive Order of governor Corazon Malanyaon, Executive Order 08-A series of 2011, issued on March 4, 2011, after the Provincial Agriculture and Fishereis (PAF-C) came up with a resolution for the establishment of the council.


If you see a beached whale or dugong, the first thing to do is to assess its condition, Yaptinchay said. A beached animal should be protected from the sun. Residents could put a shade or a wet cloth over it, he said. It is vital that the skin of the species be kept wet. People should also be careful not to cover or put sand or water over the animal’s blow hole or nose. A superficial wound does not require major treatment, the vet added.
For the implementation and operation of the Council, Board Member Eric Rabat authored the Provincial Ordinance 13-2 series of 2012, an ordinance creating the Davao Oriental Provincial Coconut Industry Development Council, and appropriating funds thereof.


If the animal is injured and cannot be released, call an expert to handle it, Yaptinchay said. Residents should immediately report the beaching to the nearest DENR or PAWB office and also report data on the animal such as its size and injuries.
“Our main task is to strengthen the different farmer organizations in the province. We could not pursue our aggressive effort towards the development of the coconut industry if we do not start with them, if they remain fragmented. This is the reason why often times, they are at the mercy of the middlemen and the traders, so we have to get them out from such plight. Remember that the economic indicator of the province is anchored on agriculture, particularly the coconut industry,” explained Mr. Armando Angsinco, Chairman of the Davao Oriental PAF-C.


Dead animals, on the other hand, should be turned over to the DENR for disposal, Yaptinchay said.
Angsinco reiterated the importance of maintaining the coconut productivity level of the province so it can go further with the development plan. He furthered that the 2 billion nuts annual production of the province in the 80’s can still be achieved. And one way is through rehabilitation of former coconut production areas that were lost because of uncontrolled or unregulated cutting of coconut trees.


He also urged residents to report incidents like these to MWWP through its Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/marinewildlifewatchofthephilippines) or to PAWB at telephone number (02) 9246031.
“We do not say we are not allowing cutting of coconut trees, we are. I had mentioned this even at the Regional Coconut Industry Development Council (RCIDC). But the cutting has to be regulated, and as such, there has to be replacement with every coconut tree being cut,” added Angsinco who also happens to be the RCIDC Chair.


The dugong, which used to abound in Palawan and is found in lesser numbers in Zamboanga City, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, '''Davao Oriental''', General Santos City, Surigao City, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Guimaras and  Polilio Island in Quezon, have been under threat because of increasing disturbances in the ecosystem, the PAWB said.
The establishment of the coconut industry development council is also designed to generate employment for the people of Davao Oriental.


Aside from threats from fishermen, climate change is also a daunting challenge for the survival of these animals. These include changes in sea temperatures and storm surges that have put the dugong and other marine mammals at higher risk of beaching than ever.
"So our people don't have to look for jobs elsewhere. The industry can provide it for them. And the government can now collect revenue from the industry," he furthered.


Yaptinchay said dugongs may not be iconic or cuddly, but they play a vital role in the country’s marine ecosystem. “Green turtles and the dugong are the biggest herbivores in the sea and [contribute] to the nutrient cycle in the oceans. They affect seagrass beds through cultivation grazing, making seagrass beds more productive and nutritious,” he said.
Another task of the Council is facilitating the creation of local coconut industry development council in the local government units.


“The turtles and dugongs have been around for millions of years and have been important players in the balance of the marine ecosystem. If we lose them, there will be some serious effect on the ecosystem which provides us with so many benefits including water, oxygen, food and even medicine,” he added.
With the local coconut industry development councils, there can now be venues where coconut farmers and other stakeholders can discuss about the coconut industry, but Angsinco emphasized that they have to get the guidelines from the Provincial Coconut Industry Development Council. As yet, the municipality of Manay and the City of Mati already established their respective local coconut industry development councils, and to follow are the municipalities of Governor Generoso, San Isidro, and the rest of Davao Oriental.


A gentle sea creature, the dugong can measure up to 3 meters from snout tip to tail when fully grown. Breastfeeding mother dugongs are said to have inspired myths of mermaids.
However, the PCIDC is keen on monitoring the establishment of the local council for Baganga, since Baganga has the biggest coconut production area in the province, followed by the City of Mati, Caraga, Gov. Generoso, and Cateel.


==PNoy to DOE: Solve Mindanao power crisis ASAP==
The council also plan to conduct a coconut data survey.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R13&article=1711334214673
*By: Robert E. Roperos
*''April 12, 2012''


Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III has instructed the energy department to solve the power crisis at the soonest time possible without sacrificing the future.
It aims to get the clear picture of the coconut industry of the province, since through the survey, a concrete data on the total land area of the province with coconut production and the number of coconut farmers in the province will be accomplished.


Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Jose Rene Almendras today said in press conference today in Davao City that the President has instructed him to focus on identifying and providing solutions to the Mindanao power crisis.
As such, members of the Council plan to have an audience with the Association of Barangay (ABC’s) and explain the coconut data survey, and get the support of the barangays.


The DOE chief stressed, however, that the President wants a solution that will not "jeopardize the future."
The first stop to the plan was the ABC in the City of Mati in their last meeting, and will soon follow in other parts of the province.


“This means that the President want a long-term solution to the power crisis in Mindanao," Almendras said.
Participants to the business congress are the coconut industry stakeholders, from coconut farmer organizations, processors, traders, technology, and logistic providers, members of the Council, and City, Municipal and Barangay local government units.


Almendras added the solution to the prevailing power crisis must be felt not only at present but also in the future. “Thus, the president wants to have it solved without jeopardizing the future of Mindanao,” he added.
“We are very grateful to Gov. Malanyaon for the all out support. Honestly, this our fifth attempt in pushing the creation of the Counci. We started the push in 2000, but those attempts did not succeed because we did not get the support of the previous leaderships. The incumbency of Gov. Malanyaon gave what we need, and she even allocated a 4-Million development fund for the Council, all for the development of the coconut industry” Angsinco disclosed.


The energy secretary said also said that the President will grace the Mindanao Energy Summit tomorrow, Friday at the Waterfront Insular Hotel in Davao City.
He stressed that developing the industry is no longer a big task because it’s been there for years, for generations, and what is needed is the enhancement of the industry, and manage it well.


Almendras said the President will preside over the summit where private and public stakeholders are expected to present the scenario of the power crisis, as well as to identify and solve the problem.
The PCIDC is also hopeful that it can access to the coconut levy fund already for downloading. If the province through the PCDIC can get the access, still, it will be geared still, towards the coconut industry development.


Meanwhile, Almendras explained that the seven-day shutdown of Malampaya Plant which is scheduled in July will be implemented since the demand of electricity during rainy season (July-September) is low as compared to the summer season. This, according to Sec. Almendras, must be made for the maintenance of the plant.
Members of the Council include the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), TESDA, Dept. of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Provincial Agriculture Office (PAGRI), Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology (DOSCST), and the Coconut Industry Reform Movement (COIR).


==Davao cacao farmers target 100,000 tons of export demand==
“Our potential investors will be there at the business congress, after all they are just waiting for us. And hopefully, the wait will soon be finally over. They just want to see our capability, and so what we have to do also is to keep on producing to satisfy their needs,” he concluded.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R11&article=1551334124278
*By: Frances Mae Gevera-Macapagat
*''April 11, 2012''


Cacao farmers here in the region are bent on reaching the 100,000 tons of cacao demand needed by the global chocolate leader, Mars.
==Another radioman slain in Davao Oriental==
*Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/190017/another-radioman-slain-in-davao-oriental
*By: Inquirer Mindanao
*''Tuesday, May 08, 2012''


Cacao farmer Charita Puentespina disclosed in today's Club 888 the struggles of the local cacao producers in order to reach the target demand by its chocolate partner.
Unidentified assailants shot dead a broadcaster of the Mati-based Catholic-run dxHM radio station as he was leaving Tarragona, Davao Oriental Tuesday, reports reaching the Davao Oriental police said.


" It was in 2008 that the cacao industry started to rise up as Mars Chocolate found our cacao having the exact quality that importers need," Puentespina said.
Nestor Libaton, 47, had just attended a fiesta celebration in Barangay Ompao and was on his way home on a motorcycle along with another broadcaster, who was not identified in the report, when shot dead by two men on another motorbike.


When Davao cacao farmers started exporting to Mars, other importers and traders from Europe and the Netherlands followed suit.
Libaton, the report said, died from gunshot wounds in the face and body while his companion was unharmed.


"The demand was so high that we felt the need to consolidate. Fortunately, a non-government agency such as ACDI-VOCA helped us organize ourselves, look for other cacao farmers to consolidate our produce." she said.
Juvy Tanio, Mati City information officer and a colleague of Libaton in DXHM, said authorities recovered six empty shells and one live bullet from .45 and .38 cal. pistols from the crime scene.


At present 10,000 hectares of land in the country are planted with cacao. Seventy percent of the national production comes from Davao Region.
Tanio said the slain broadcaster was not hard-hitting and was more known for his market reports.


Data showed that cacao production reached an all-time high of 40,000 tons in the mid 80s but got lost in the coming years due to the problem on quality and shipping cost.
==9,220 migratory birds found in Davao Region==
 
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R11&article=1561336112054
Not until an international buyer of cacao discovered the potentials of cacao beans produced in the Davao Region. This paved the way for the start of cacao production despite the lucrative export income from banana production.
 
Puentespina narrated the interest of Mars Cocoa in helping out the farmers' association to transfer knowledge to those interested of engaging into cacao production.
 
In May, the farmers' association will open the Cacao Information and Development Center where farmers and even those non farmers but interested to learn could avail of the technology transfer seminar as well as the knowledge upgrading about the industry.
 
Experts will be teaching students techniques and ways for proper cacao production. The said center is also envisioned to have its processing plant where value-adding of the product will be maximized.
 
The center is also targeted to come up with a database in which target beneficiaries could make do with it as they plan to engage into this kind of industry.
 
==Autism society invites Dabawenyos to national meet==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R11&article=1551333761667
*By: PIA
*By: PIA
*''April 07, 2012''
*''Friday, May 04, 2012''
 
Autism Society Philippines (ASP) invites Dabawenyos to its 12th National Conference on Autism and 2nd Southeast Asian Conference on Autism on April 28 and 29, 2012 (Saturday and Sunday), with the theme “Living with Autism: Hope@Home” at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Ortigas Avenue corner ADB Avenue, Quezon City.
 
This year’s conference aims to promote, first and foremost, acceptance of autism within the family. It seeks to empower families to make informed decisions and to take bolder steps to ensure quality life for their member with autism.
 
It will also provide a fresh perspective to professionals as collaborative and supportive partners of families in the management of autism.
 
It will feature interactive web interviews with Dr. Temple Grandin and Dr. Stephen Shore, two of the renowned experts on autism in the world. Also sharing their knowledge during the conference are local experts Dr. Alexis L. Reyes, one of the country’s leading Developmental Pediatricians, Dr. Michael Tan, and Dr. Lourdes “Honey” Carandang. It will showcase local experiences of parents, siblings and persons with autism as self-advocates.
 
It will also showcase initiatives of the government (Carmona, Cavite) and the private sector [Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR)], both in the rural and urban settings, to provide programs and services for families and communities facing the challenges of autism.
 
A special registration rate is available for a group of ten (10) participants. Registrants may pay by depositing payment to Autism Society Philippines, Metrobank-Kamias Branch, Savings Account No. 047-3-04751874-2. Kindly fax to (632)9266941 or e-mail to the address below a copy of the deposit slip with the name/s of the participant/s.
 
For more information on the conference, please contact our Conference Coordinator, Reynaldo Refran at telephones (02)926-6941, (02)929-8447, mobile number (0926)694-4936 or email aspnc2012@gmail.com .
 
==DOE assures of govt. efforts in addressing Mindanao power situation==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R11&article=1561333517823
*By: Carina L Cayon
*''April 04, 2012''
 
The Department of Energy has assured energy stakeholders in Mindanao that the government is taking its best efforts in addressing the power situation in the island.
 
DOE Undersecretary Josefina Patricia Asirit made the assurance in the Mindanao Energy Stakeholders Meeting on Tuesday here, as she presented DOE’s undertakings and recommended solutions to improve the power supply in Mindanao.
 
Asirit told power distributors and electric cooperatives across Mindanao of the current power supply deficit of 100-160 mega watts in the Mindanao grid from 360 MW during the previous months.
 
As part of the short-term solutions to this condition, Asirit said DOE is pushing for the re-opening of the Iligan Diesel Power Plant (IDPP), which has been shutdown since June 2010 pending evaluations and clearance by the Commission on Audit (COA).
 
Once operational, IDPP is expected to produce an initial power of 20-30 MW and may increase up to its full capacity of 100 MW upon rehabilitation, Asirit stated.
 
“We hope we can put it online within the next four months, if not earlier,” she told the media in a press conference held after the stakeholders’ meeting on the same day at the Grand Regal Hotel, this city.
 
Another short-term solution being mulled by DOE is the transfer of power barges as stop-gap measures needed in Mindanao.
 
Asirit said two power barges are up for transfer next year that would provide 120 MW and 70 MW respectively. “This would certainly be more than enough to help augment the 200 MW shortfall,” she stated.
 
She said there is one power barge existing with a 32-MW capacity but is only generating 5 MW due to its location in a cement plant.
 
The rest of the existing power barges also with a 32-MW capacity each require maintenance to operate full generation capacity, she added.
 
DOE’s short-term solutions include the installation of the Mindanao Coal-fired Power Plant of the STEAG State Power, Inc. which has a 10 MW un-contracted capacity, and the acceleration of energy efficiency program.
 
Asirit explained that these short-term solutions are temporary just as not to hamper the development of the industry, while DOE is also making efforts for the long-term solutions.


In averting the power situation in Mindanao from becoming a crisis in the future, DOE saw the need for technical rehabilitation and upgratdng of power generation plants to generate more power.
A total of 9,220 migratory birds were found in Davao Region during the bird watching and bird counting activity for the first quarter of 2012.


The DOE official said the 180-MW Pulangi Complex run-off river hydropower plant will need to be repaired starting this month to operate in its full generation capacity.
Migratory bird count found in 2011 reached to 7,836.


For the period of April to May, Pulangi river will be at its lowest water elevations which will reduce power generation of about 100-130 MW.
The migratory birds came from different species like Godwit, Sand Plover, Common Greenshank and Black-winged Stilt, to name a few.


However, Asirit clarified that Pulangi Complex is still generating in its full capacity of 180MW as of this time, and explained that the rehabilitation plan is aimed at preventing the plant from further damage.
The municipalities of Malalag in Davao del Sur; Carmen, Davao del Norte and Banaybanay, Davao Oriental are the only three identified temporary habitats of migratory birds in the month of January after crossing the continents.


The Agus 6 Complex, a hydropower plant, is also set for rehabilitation and uprading in June this year, she said adding that the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) has already approved three weeks ago the P2.6 budget for the plant’s repair.
Regional Executive Director Jim O. Sampulna of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-11) explained that the bird watching and bird counting activity aims to obtain information on the population of migratory birds at wetlands in the region.


Asirit said the rehabilitation of the Units 1 and 2 of the Agus 6 plant will bring about additional 19 MW to produce a total of 44 MW, and will ensure another 30 years of existence.
The activity, being conducted by DENR’s Protected Areas and Wildlife Division (PAWD), would able to monitor on an annual basis the status and condition of wetlands.


The Energy Undersecretary has also reported that the issuance of DOE Circular DC2012-03-00419 in March 2012 aiming to rationalize the power supply in Mindanao has already gained positive results.
This is also in line with the Annual Asian Waterfowl Census (AWC) for migratory birds. AWC is a yearly event which takes place during the second and third weeks of January.


The Circular directs electric cooperatives to nominate their needed power to supply their demands which DOE said has resulted to reduction of power outages.
The census was initiated in 1987 in the Indian subcontinent and has grown rapidly to cover over 32 countries.  


Asirit said that as of Sunday, only nine out of the 27 electric cooperatives in Mindanao have experienced brownouts since January this year, with reduced duration of at least 30 minutes to two hours.
==BFAR nat’l fisherfolk director hails from Davao==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R11&article=1561335772113
*By: Jeanevive D. Abangan
*''Thursday, May 03, 2012''


She clarified that not all areas in Mindanao have power outages such as the areas of Cotabato, Panabo, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and Davao.
This year’s national fisher folk director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is from the Davao Region.


With the issuance of the Circular, areas not experiencing interruptions now include Malaybalay, Dipolog, Dapitan, Valencia, Camiguin, Panabo, Digos, Tagum, Mati, Cotabato, Surigao, Butuan, and Cabadbaran, DOE said.  
Fisher folk leader Natividad C. Gunayan, 62 years of age, resident of Nasa Village, Poblacion Lupon in Davao Oriental has been chosen to take the place of BFAR national Director Atty. Asis G. Perez, for one month in line with the observance of the month of May as the “Farmers and Fisher folks Month.”


==Snorkeling site opens in Davao Oriental==
BFAR XI Regional Director Fatma Idris Tuesday revealed Gunayan as the second woman fisher folk leader chosen by colleagues to sit as the national fisherfolk director.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R11&article=1561333254237
*By: Carina L Cayon
*''April 01, 2012''


MATI CITY, Davao Oriental- A snorkeling site in the city is now open for local and foreign enthusiasts and tourists to take in their itineraries when they visit the province especially this summer season.
“This shows that we are empowering women to take hold of positions usually held by men,” she said.


The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the region recently opened the snorkeling area at Barangay Tamisan in Mati City as an offshoot to the enterprise development efforts of DENR’s Integrated Coastal Resource Management Project (ICRMP).
In a separate interview, Gunayan looked at her present position as an opportunity to push forward the welfare of fisher folks as well as to find ways to assist women on fishing, to find alternative livelihood.


DENR-XI signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the local government of Mati City and the Tamisan Marine Protected Area Fisherfolk Association (TAMPAFAS) in implementing the ICRMP in the city.
“Gibati nako nga dako ko ug kaakuhan o responsibilidad nga mapalambo ang panginabuhi sa mga mangingisda. (I feel that I bear great responsibility to improve the lives of my fellow fisherfolks.),” she said.


As part of the agreement, 17 reef rangers were trained, and are now ready to guide tourists who want to explore the surface of the bay.
In her one-month stint as the national fisherfolk director of BFAR, Gunayan lines up a three-pronged agenda geared towards addressing coastal environment issues, poverty situation of fisherfolks and strengthening BFAR in general.


The trained reef rangers received their brand new snorkeling gears such as mask, fins, life vests, goggles and diving suits after the MOA signing on March 27.
On top of her agenda is to drum up calls to elevate BFAR into a department as the “Philippines is the only country in Asia where a government agency on fisheries is a bureau only.”


Mayor Michelle Rabat who represented Mati LGU in the MOA, emphasized the need of protecting and conserving the coastal area of Barangay Tamisan in order to lure more tourists to come and snorkel in the area.
As such campaign has been there since 2005, the fisher folk sector will be bringing a position paper on the conversion of BFAR into a Department of Fisheries to the Senate, and that it is eyeing the support of senators Aquilino Martin “Koko” Pimentel and Antonio Trillanes IV.


“Protecting and conserving the coastal areas also means sustaining your livelihood and enjoying the coastal resources specifically fishes. I am very happy that this enterprise development activity is finally realized,” Rabat said.
Under her stewardship as the national fisheries director, the fisherfolk sector will also be working for the inclusion of the fisher folks as beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).


Rabat pledged to provide TAMPAFAS a service vehicle for their snorkeling and livelihood activities.
“Daghang mga fisherfolks ang wala naapil sa lista sa mga makadawat sa 4Ps. (There are a number of fisherfolks who have not been included as recipients of 4Ps.),” she said.


TAMPAFAS was represented by its president Giovanni Lazaro in the MOA signing, while DENR-XI was headed by its regional technical director Emmanuel Isip.
Along this line, she noted that some have yet to fully grasp the meaning of fisher folks which, she said, refers not only to those catching fish but also to any man and woman involved in the small fishing industry such as fish vendors and fish processors.


The snorkeling package also features food treat of special native delicacies of Mati City such as taro (local name for gabi), cassava cooked with coconut milk and sugar, salvaro, puto-cassava, lumpia, ube and the local version of mudslide made of milo, milk, tuba (coconut wine) and many more.
During her term, she will also be pushing for intensive coastal protection through massive planting of mangroves.


This runs in line with the thrust of BFAR which is granting an incentive to fisher folks who would want to actively engage in mangrove planting by giving them P3 for each planted mangrove propagule and additional P2 for each grown mangrove.


Meanwhile, DENR-XI Regional Executive Director Jim O. Sampulna said that DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje have been closely monitoring the ICRMP implementation all over the country.
Meanwhile, Gunayan has also seen the need to assist fisherfolk women in search of alternative livelihood to support their espouses.


Paje was instrumental for the early release of the P441,603.00 as a funding support to the association for its start-up capital.
“May mga training na sila pero wala silang puhunan. (They already have undergone training but they don’t have the capital)” she said.
She also would want women to learn “the values” to sustain their venture, and to stick with their groups’ desire to collectively prosper.


The DENR-ICRMP will continuously monitor the association’s activities and provide them technical assistance when necessary.
“Di man pwede pa-isa isa lang ang molambo, kay para man kini sa tanan. (Their progress has to collective not individualistic.),” she said referring to government assistance which is usually granted to groups of beneficiaries.

Latest revision as of 14:17, 11 May 2012

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DavOr nets P8.6 M from quarry and mine revenues

MATI CITY, Davao Oriental- The provincial government earned P8,594,538.14 from sand, gravel and mining operations in the from January to April this year.

This was a result of the establishment of Mobile Monitoring Points conducted by the Environment and Natural Resources Office-Davao Oriental (ENRO-DO), and the regular conduct of site inspections and verification of sand, gravel and mining operations.

A report prepared by ENRO Team Leader Derbert B. General revealed that the collected revenues came from extraction fees for sand, gravel and mining. The team has regularly conducted mobile monitoring across the province.

The team also conducted a site inspection and verification in all barangays with possible quarry outlets within the City of Mati, Lupon, San Isidro and Governor Generoso towns.

They also conducted mobile patrolling at night within the vicinities of the City of Mati to check on the validity of documents used in the transport of mineral and forest products.

General also said that on January 2012, the collected revenue was recorded at P1,850,191.66, on February it reached P3,631,428.36, on March, P195,280.08 and in April – P2,917,638.04, for a total of P8,594,538.14.

The provincial government of Davao Oriental under Governor Corazon T. Nuñez-Malanyaon allows the business sector to engage in sand and gravel operation for the improvement of Davornons provided that the extraction of sand and gravel shall be done without harming the environment. The government also collects revenues for the implementation of projects for the improvement of the province.

OIC-ENRO Dante M. Ganir said that barangays where the operation of sand and gravel is located will receive 40 per cent share from the total amount of the collected revenue, 30 per cent will go to the city or municipality and 30 per cent share to the provincial government.

1st coconut congress to be held in Davao Oriental

MATI, Davao Oriental- The Provincial Coconut Industry Development Council (PCIDC) will conduct the first Davao Oriental Coconut Industry Business Congress in pursuit to the aggressive and collective campaign of the province to develop the industry being one of the leading coconut producers in the country.

The congress will be held on May 10 to 11 at the Lanes Kita-anan, Bonifacio Street in Mati City.

Department of Agriculture (DA) secretary Proceso Alcala will grace the activity along with other DA regional and local officials. Also expected to grace the two-day congress would be Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) administrator Euplides Forbes and former senator Wigberto Tanada of the Coconut Industry Investment Fund (CIIF).

With the most fitting theme “Industriya ng Niyog ay Palaganapin at Pagyamanin Upang Kasaganaan at Kaunlaran ay Makamtan Natin,” the business congress also aims to emphasize on increasing productivity and expanding value-adding to coconut, thus, giving more substance to Davao Oriental as the one of the leading coconut-producing province in the country.

The activity is an ample venue where the province can formally present the provincial strategic development plan for 2012 to 2016 and mechanisms for the plan implementation, promotion and offer market-driven value adding business opportunities for the coconut farmers and an opportunity also where the province, through the provincial coconut development council, can submit proposals on coconut development related to programs and projects tapping the resources of the Dept. of Agriculture (DA), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the Coconut Industry Industrialization Fund (CIIDF), and present resolutions and proposals for policy action.

This came after the creation of the Provincial Coconut Industry Development Council was approved recently by the 13th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao Oriental.

The council started as an Executive Order of governor Corazon Malanyaon, Executive Order 08-A series of 2011, issued on March 4, 2011, after the Provincial Agriculture and Fishereis (PAF-C) came up with a resolution for the establishment of the council.

For the implementation and operation of the Council, Board Member Eric Rabat authored the Provincial Ordinance 13-2 series of 2012, an ordinance creating the Davao Oriental Provincial Coconut Industry Development Council, and appropriating funds thereof.

“Our main task is to strengthen the different farmer organizations in the province. We could not pursue our aggressive effort towards the development of the coconut industry if we do not start with them, if they remain fragmented. This is the reason why often times, they are at the mercy of the middlemen and the traders, so we have to get them out from such plight. Remember that the economic indicator of the province is anchored on agriculture, particularly the coconut industry,” explained Mr. Armando Angsinco, Chairman of the Davao Oriental PAF-C.

Angsinco reiterated the importance of maintaining the coconut productivity level of the province so it can go further with the development plan. He furthered that the 2 billion nuts annual production of the province in the 80’s can still be achieved. And one way is through rehabilitation of former coconut production areas that were lost because of uncontrolled or unregulated cutting of coconut trees.

“We do not say we are not allowing cutting of coconut trees, we are. I had mentioned this even at the Regional Coconut Industry Development Council (RCIDC). But the cutting has to be regulated, and as such, there has to be replacement with every coconut tree being cut,” added Angsinco who also happens to be the RCIDC Chair.

The establishment of the coconut industry development council is also designed to generate employment for the people of Davao Oriental.

"So our people don't have to look for jobs elsewhere. The industry can provide it for them. And the government can now collect revenue from the industry," he furthered.

Another task of the Council is facilitating the creation of local coconut industry development council in the local government units.

With the local coconut industry development councils, there can now be venues where coconut farmers and other stakeholders can discuss about the coconut industry, but Angsinco emphasized that they have to get the guidelines from the Provincial Coconut Industry Development Council. As yet, the municipality of Manay and the City of Mati already established their respective local coconut industry development councils, and to follow are the municipalities of Governor Generoso, San Isidro, and the rest of Davao Oriental.

However, the PCIDC is keen on monitoring the establishment of the local council for Baganga, since Baganga has the biggest coconut production area in the province, followed by the City of Mati, Caraga, Gov. Generoso, and Cateel.

The council also plan to conduct a coconut data survey.

It aims to get the clear picture of the coconut industry of the province, since through the survey, a concrete data on the total land area of the province with coconut production and the number of coconut farmers in the province will be accomplished.

As such, members of the Council plan to have an audience with the Association of Barangay (ABC’s) and explain the coconut data survey, and get the support of the barangays.

The first stop to the plan was the ABC in the City of Mati in their last meeting, and will soon follow in other parts of the province.

Participants to the business congress are the coconut industry stakeholders, from coconut farmer organizations, processors, traders, technology, and logistic providers, members of the Council, and City, Municipal and Barangay local government units.

“We are very grateful to Gov. Malanyaon for the all out support. Honestly, this our fifth attempt in pushing the creation of the Counci. We started the push in 2000, but those attempts did not succeed because we did not get the support of the previous leaderships. The incumbency of Gov. Malanyaon gave what we need, and she even allocated a 4-Million development fund for the Council, all for the development of the coconut industry” Angsinco disclosed.

He stressed that developing the industry is no longer a big task because it’s been there for years, for generations, and what is needed is the enhancement of the industry, and manage it well.

The PCIDC is also hopeful that it can access to the coconut levy fund already for downloading. If the province through the PCDIC can get the access, still, it will be geared still, towards the coconut industry development.

Members of the Council include the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), TESDA, Dept. of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Provincial Agriculture Office (PAGRI), Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology (DOSCST), and the Coconut Industry Reform Movement (COIR).

“Our potential investors will be there at the business congress, after all they are just waiting for us. And hopefully, the wait will soon be finally over. They just want to see our capability, and so what we have to do also is to keep on producing to satisfy their needs,” he concluded.

Another radioman slain in Davao Oriental

Unidentified assailants shot dead a broadcaster of the Mati-based Catholic-run dxHM radio station as he was leaving Tarragona, Davao Oriental Tuesday, reports reaching the Davao Oriental police said.

Nestor Libaton, 47, had just attended a fiesta celebration in Barangay Ompao and was on his way home on a motorcycle along with another broadcaster, who was not identified in the report, when shot dead by two men on another motorbike.

Libaton, the report said, died from gunshot wounds in the face and body while his companion was unharmed.

Juvy Tanio, Mati City information officer and a colleague of Libaton in DXHM, said authorities recovered six empty shells and one live bullet from .45 and .38 cal. pistols from the crime scene.

Tanio said the slain broadcaster was not hard-hitting and was more known for his market reports.

9,220 migratory birds found in Davao Region

A total of 9,220 migratory birds were found in Davao Region during the bird watching and bird counting activity for the first quarter of 2012.

Migratory bird count found in 2011 reached to 7,836.

The migratory birds came from different species like Godwit, Sand Plover, Common Greenshank and Black-winged Stilt, to name a few.

The municipalities of Malalag in Davao del Sur; Carmen, Davao del Norte and Banaybanay, Davao Oriental are the only three identified temporary habitats of migratory birds in the month of January after crossing the continents.

Regional Executive Director Jim O. Sampulna of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-11) explained that the bird watching and bird counting activity aims to obtain information on the population of migratory birds at wetlands in the region.

The activity, being conducted by DENR’s Protected Areas and Wildlife Division (PAWD), would able to monitor on an annual basis the status and condition of wetlands.

This is also in line with the Annual Asian Waterfowl Census (AWC) for migratory birds. AWC is a yearly event which takes place during the second and third weeks of January.

The census was initiated in 1987 in the Indian subcontinent and has grown rapidly to cover over 32 countries.

BFAR nat’l fisherfolk director hails from Davao

This year’s national fisher folk director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is from the Davao Region.

Fisher folk leader Natividad C. Gunayan, 62 years of age, resident of Nasa Village, Poblacion Lupon in Davao Oriental has been chosen to take the place of BFAR national Director Atty. Asis G. Perez, for one month in line with the observance of the month of May as the “Farmers and Fisher folks Month.”

BFAR XI Regional Director Fatma Idris Tuesday revealed Gunayan as the second woman fisher folk leader chosen by colleagues to sit as the national fisherfolk director.

“This shows that we are empowering women to take hold of positions usually held by men,” she said.

In a separate interview, Gunayan looked at her present position as an opportunity to push forward the welfare of fisher folks as well as to find ways to assist women on fishing, to find alternative livelihood.

“Gibati nako nga dako ko ug kaakuhan o responsibilidad nga mapalambo ang panginabuhi sa mga mangingisda. (I feel that I bear great responsibility to improve the lives of my fellow fisherfolks.),” she said.

In her one-month stint as the national fisherfolk director of BFAR, Gunayan lines up a three-pronged agenda geared towards addressing coastal environment issues, poverty situation of fisherfolks and strengthening BFAR in general.

On top of her agenda is to drum up calls to elevate BFAR into a department as the “Philippines is the only country in Asia where a government agency on fisheries is a bureau only.”

As such campaign has been there since 2005, the fisher folk sector will be bringing a position paper on the conversion of BFAR into a Department of Fisheries to the Senate, and that it is eyeing the support of senators Aquilino Martin “Koko” Pimentel and Antonio Trillanes IV.

Under her stewardship as the national fisheries director, the fisherfolk sector will also be working for the inclusion of the fisher folks as beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

“Daghang mga fisherfolks ang wala naapil sa lista sa mga makadawat sa 4Ps. (There are a number of fisherfolks who have not been included as recipients of 4Ps.),” she said.

Along this line, she noted that some have yet to fully grasp the meaning of fisher folks which, she said, refers not only to those catching fish but also to any man and woman involved in the small fishing industry such as fish vendors and fish processors.

During her term, she will also be pushing for intensive coastal protection through massive planting of mangroves.

This runs in line with the thrust of BFAR which is granting an incentive to fisher folks who would want to actively engage in mangrove planting by giving them P3 for each planted mangrove propagule and additional P2 for each grown mangrove.

Meanwhile, Gunayan has also seen the need to assist fisherfolk women in search of alternative livelihood to support their espouses.

“May mga training na sila pero wala silang puhunan. (They already have undergone training but they don’t have the capital)” she said. She also would want women to learn “the values” to sustain their venture, and to stick with their groups’ desire to collectively prosper.

“Di man pwede pa-isa isa lang ang molambo, kay para man kini sa tanan. (Their progress has to collective not individualistic.),” she said referring to government assistance which is usually granted to groups of beneficiaries.

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