Difference between revisions of "South Cotabato News"

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==Rescued geckos in Gensan released into the wild==
==PO summit in Soccsksargen first in Mindanao==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=66418
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1611336799662
*Friday, December 02, 2011
*Saturday, May 12, 2012
:by   Dani Doguiles
:by (DEDoguiles- PIA 12 with report from LMSalvo-DA RAFID 12)




KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 12 (PIA) -- The Regional People’s Organization Congress on May 3 here was not only the first in the entire Soccsksargen Region but also the first PO gathering in the history of the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) in Southern Philippines, DA 12 Regional Executive Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan said.


KORONADAL CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- Some 1,600 geckos rescued in a raid in General Santos City are now back into the wild.
More than 300 individuals attended the summit. Among two-thirds of them were chairmen and members of POs; other participants included local chief executives, CFAD focal persons, municipal and provincial project management implementing units in the region.  
SSupt. Albert Ignatius Ferro, regional director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG-12) in an interview with a local radio station here said personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and CIDG released the geckos (tuko) in an area near the famous Seven Falls in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato on Wednesday.
The area is part of the 102,305-hectare Allah Valley Protected Landscape.
The geckos were seized on Tuesday in the compound of Mindanao Development Venture and Trade in barangay Lagao, Gensan in a raid conducted by members of the CIDG, DENR, National Bureau of Investigation, and other police units after confirming reports that the company is engaged in buying and selling of geckos.
Geckos were placed in boxes, crates and cages and were reportedly ready for transport to Metro Manila when the team raided the compound.
Charges have been filed against suspects Mario Legazpi, Maricel Cayetano, Wesley Saliban and Gilbert Mendoza -- all officers of the company -- for violation of Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act have been formally filed against the suspects.
Ferro believes the geckos were collected from different parts of Mindanao, particularly around Marawi City.
He said t he company have been buying geckos at P2,000 to P5,000 each depending on the sizes.
Trading of wildlife, including geckos is prohibited by law. Collection of wildlife is allowed by law but only after securing permit from DENR.
Demand for geckos in the Philippines has intensified in the recent months after reports that the reptile can fetch millions of pesos because of its supposed capability to cure many diseases, including HIV-AIDS. (PIA 12)


“The presence of our mayors is a manifestation of their support to MRDP,” Datukan said.


She added that the collaboration between the POs and their respective local government units assures the success of the implementation of MRDP initiatives.


DA 12 Regional Technical Director and MRDP Regional head Dr. Jimmy Olivo said “the regional PO summit was designed to prepare the region for the forthcoming Mindanao-wide gathering of POs.”


DA-MRDP’s 1st Mindanao PO Congress is slated on May 14 in Davao City where POs in the six regions in the entire Mindanao will convene to share developments of projects granted to them by the program and to discuss issues and concerns affecting them.


Participants of the regional summit here passed Resolution No. 01, series of 2012 requesting Pres. Benigno C. Aquino III to augment the existing funds of MRDP. They also appealed to local chief executives in the region to expedite the implementation of the program in their areas.


They also recommend the formation people’s organization that caters specifically to Muslim communities.


The resolution will be presented during the Mindanao PO congress where Pres. Aquino is expected to come.


==South Cotabato engineer wins nationwide invention tilt for start-up companies==
During her presentation of the general updates of MRDP projects, MRDP CFAD coordinator Shiela Siago pointed out that of the six regions in Mindanao, Soccsksargen has been a consistent top performer with regard to implementation of project implementation.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=66280
*Thursday, December 01, 2011
:by  Bai Tagitican and Dani Doguiles


“Region 12 gets almost a billion from the World Bank where a lion’s share of the amount funded the region’s rural infrastructure projects,” she said.


Soccsksargen Region covers the provinces of North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and Sarangani and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal City, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.


KORONADAL CITY, Dec 1 (PIA) -- An engineer from South Cotabato was recently named one of the five winners of the 2nd Filipinnovation Award sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
RTD Olivo said, “looking at the map of Central Mindanao, it is already half-filled with MRDP projects.”
Fiilinnovation Award is DOST’s search for five best inventions by start-up companies in the country.
Engr. Benjamin B. Hurtado Jr., resident of barangay Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City was hailed for his invention, the Daikkha Dehumidifier Mechanical Dryer, which has potential in helping farmers reduce cost and losses during post –harvest.
In his search for an efficient alternative equipment, Hurtado, being an owner of a fabrication company, perfected a dehumidifier mechanical dryer after a series of experiments.
His machine has a dehumidifier or heat exchanger that removes water vapor in hot air produced from a rice hull oven before the hot air is diverted to the rice/corn bin for subsequent drying process.
With its capacity to provide drying services in any weather condition, it can produce food grade quality products at a significantly lower operational cost.
The Daikkah Mechanical Dryer can dry 700 sacks or 35 metric tons of newly harvested palay in four processing cycles lasting a total of 16 hours only.
Hurtado’s invention uses rice hull to create heated air for drying, and consumes only 144 kilowatts for 16 hours of drying.
Other winners of the 2nd Filipinovation Award are: Ahcil Laboratories, Inc., Barbalite Technologies, Crisologo Concrete Precast Enterprise, and Filimagineers, formerly Mayad-Web 3D.
The Filipinnovation Award seeks to recognize and promote local innovative technology development by start-up companies involved in biotechnology, information and communications technology, electronics, robotics/mechatronics, material science, nanotechnology or combinations thereof.
Plaques, cash prizes and gift packs were given to the winners during the awarding ceremonies held on November 25 at the Bayanihan Center, United Laboratories, Inc. in Mandaluyong City during the 4th anniversary celebration of the Filipinnovation.
DOST 12 regional director Dr. Zenaida P. Hadji Raof Laidan said Engr. Hurtado’s mechanical dryer was among the winners in the 2011 Regional Invention Contests and Exhibition (RICE), which highlighted the regional celebration of the National Science and Technology Week in General Santos City in August.
It was the first time that RICE was conducted in Soccsksargen Region; previously it was held in cluster: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. (PIA 12)


==Transport growth==
Before the summit here ended, a raffle was drawn where the top prizes included two rice threshers, two corn mills, four carabaos, ang laminated sacks (trapal).
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/343040/kids-welfare
*November 29, 2011, 5:24pm
:by  Nonoy Lacson


At least one thousand banana suckers were also raffled off along with seedlings of mangosteen, marang, guyabano, rambutan, and jackfruit. Provided by AgriPinoy Rice, Corn, High Value Crops and Livestock programs of DA.


Formal turn-over of these items is slated on May 31, along with the awarding of Gawad Saka regional winners.


TAMPAKAN, South Cotabato – A transport group with members from the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City is preparing for what its members anticipate as a “tremendous growth” in terms of public transportation needs.
MRDP is a medium term development intervention that addresses poverty reduction designed and implemented by DA. The program is funded by the World Bank with the national government (DA), and the LGUs which provide an equity share.  


:“The Tampakan project will mean a bigger demand for public transportation and this will be good for the transport industry,” said Orlando Sabelita, president of the Socsksargen Transport Federation. “We believe that Sagittarius Mines, Inc. has safety and risks management systems in place, otherwise, they will not be given a permit to operate by the national government,” said.
The program has four components: Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD), Rural Infrastructure (RI), Natural Resources Management (NRM), and Investment Governance Reform (IGR).


==South Cotabato implements version of seal of good housekeeping for barangays==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=65927
*Monday, November 28, 2011
:by Dani Doguiles




KORONADAL CITY, Nov. 28 (PIA) -- Some 100 barangays in South Cotabato will be given seal of good housekeeping in 2012 in line with the provincial government's implementation of a local version of the Department of the Interior and Local Government's program. Josephine Leysa, interior and local government provincial director, said "100 out of the 199 barangays of South Cotabato will receive awards and cash prizes from the provincial government if they pass the standards set.” Besides the seal of housekeeping, Leysa added "the top six barangays will be awarded cash prizes of P500,000, P400,000, P300,000, P200,000, P100,000, and P75,000, respectively. Other barangays -- up to 94 in number -- that will qualify based on criteria set, will also receive P50,000 each. Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. launched the project during the Liga ng Mga Barangay celebration on October 7 and the evaluation will begin in the first quarter of 2012. "The top six barangays will be recognized during the Tnalak Festival in July while the remaining 94 barangays that will pass the criteria for the seal of housekeeping will be named during the Liga Day next year.” Leysa explained that although the local seal of good housekeeping was patterned after the national program, the local version will be wider in scope. "Since we have been implementing barangay performance management system for eight years, our criteria will not focus on organization and creation of bodies but will deal much on the functionality of these bodies," she said. Without giving details on the criteria for evaluation, she said, "the local version of the seal of housekeeping will give emphasis on total barangay governance." DILG’s Seal of Good Housekeeping for LGUs is in line with the Department’s commitment to aggressively scale up interventions to elevate the practice of governance that values transparency, accountability, participation and performance into an institutionalized status. Through the program, DILG recognizes LGUs that have shown good performance in the areas of good planning, sound fiscal management, transparency and accountability, and valuing of performance monitoring. LGUs awarded the Seal of Good Housekeeping are given access to P3-million worth of projects under the Performance Challenge Fund. (PIA 12)


==Gov orders 24/7 monitoring of Digos-Cotabato highway project==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=65817
*Sunday, November 27, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles






KORONADAL CITY, Nov. 27 (PIA) -- North Cotabato governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza has ordered contractors of Digos-North Cotabato Road Improvement project to monitor sections under construction 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
In a recent meeting of the Provincial Project Monitoring and Advisory Group, Mendoza also emphasized the importance of flag men to ensure constant flow of traffic, especially in critical areas such as in blind curves.
She said having personnel to guide traffic is necessary even at night time to be able to immediately address accidents that might occur.
Local government officials also cited poorly constructed diversion section, lack of safety barriers and traffic signage, and absence of warning devices as among the immediate concerns that the contractors should take care of.
“With all the on-going developments in our highways, we still have to bear in mind the convenience and most of all safety of the riding public,” Mendoza told the contractors.
She also ordered LGUs to account project-related road accidents, report it to the local police station and enter it into the police blotter for proper investigation.
The governor also asked contractors to shoulder hospitalization for any accident that may occur in their respective jurisdiction.
Contractors, on the other hand, said that complaints on signage and early warning devices have already been addressed. However, according to them, unidentified individuals removed and redirected them.
They also assured the governor that other concerns raised during the meeting will be acted upon the soonest possible time.
According to data from the Department of Public Works and Highways – 12 (DPWH) website, the road improvement project has a total budget of P277.97 million. (PIA 12)








==148 OSYs complete LGU-sponsored skills training==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1611336718120
*Friday, May 11, 2012
:by  (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)




KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 11 (PIA) -- Some 148 out-of-school youths in nearby Tampakan town recently completed a four-month skills training sponsored by the local government unit in partnership with the mining firm Sagittarius Mines Inc. (SMI) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).


Of these, 15 completed training in carpentry, 15 in masonry, 45 in plumbing, 22 in electrical installation and maintenance, 28 in welding and 23 in beauty care.


==DOST-12 renews ISO 9001:2008 certification==
Efren Villarina, community affairs officer II, said the training of OSYs was implemented under the Educational Livelihood Program of Mayor Leonardo Escobillo in accordance with two of his three-fold thrust, namely: education and livelihood. The third thrust is health.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=65653
*Friday, November 25, 2011
:by  Bai Tagitican


For the training of the out-of-school youth who come from the different barangays of the municipality, the LGU provided for the venue while SMI provided the training equipment and tools and honorarium of the trainors provided by TESDA.


At the graduation ceremony on April 25, TESDA-South Cotabato Director Leonora Guiloreza encouraged the trainees “to make of the skills you have acquired from the training course.”


KORONADAL CITY, Nov 25 (PIA) –- The Department of Science and Technology – 12’s (DOST-12) quality management system (QMS) recently received a confirmation that is has conformed to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2008.
“Believe in yourselves, hone your skills and never let them wane,” she challenged them.  
DOST-12 first acquired the prestigious certification three years ago.
On November 10-11, the Certification International Philippines, Inc. (CIPI) conducted an audit of the regional science and technology department and found it has consistently adhered to the rigid ISO 9001:2008 standards.
Dr. Zenaida P. Hadji Raof Laidan, DOST-12 regional director, said they are continually improving the regional office’s QMS, including the four Provincial Science and Technology Centers, to comply, if not surpass, the standards set by ISO 9001:2008.
The CIPI reassessment covered DOST-12’s business processes such as the 1) Provision of Technology Transfer Services, 2) S&T Promotion, 3) S&T Information Dissemination; and 4) S&T Scholarships.
The audit also included the following areas: maintenance, procurement, competence training and awareness, internal audit, corrective/preventive actions, and management review validation.
The ISO 9001:2008 specifies requirements for a QMS where an organization needs to demonstrate its ability to consistently provide product and services that meet customer and applicable regulatory and statutory satisfaction.
Moreover, it aims to continually improve client satisfaction through the effective application of the system, including processes for continual improvement.
The ISO Certification renewal is not an outright privilege; it requires an annual surveillance audit and a more thorough reassessment audit every three years.
Engr. Joselito C. Soler, CIPI head of certification, led the team that conducted the reassessment.
CIPI is one of the best ISO 9001:2008 standard certifiers, both in the country and abroad, duly accredited by the Philippine Accreditation Board (PAB) and the United Kingdom Accreditation System (UKAS).
Dr. Laidan described the latest certification as a validation of DOST-12’s accomplishments in its continued implementation of the international QMS standard as an instrument to further enhance the office’s competitiveness and to meet the needs and expectations of the people.
During the exit conference with the CIPI team, Director Laidan acknowledged the efforts of all the staff for their exemplary performances that led to the latest ISO 9001:2008 certification.
She encouraged everybody to continually improve the effectiveness of the agency’s QMS to attain its objective of providing outstanding services at all times.
“Let us continue doing our tasks and responsibilities better. We must go beyond the expectations of our clients in satisfying their needs. Teamwork is the key that will lead us towards the achievement of our objectives in contributing to the improvement of the socio-economic welfare not only in Region 12 but the country as a whole,” she said. (DOST 12/DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


==Napolcom to complete inspection of PNP units soon==
Meanwhile, Mayor Escobillo assured that them that help from the local government unit would not end with the graduation rites.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=65448
*Thursday, November 24, 2011
:by Dani Doguiles


“We have more dreams for the residents of Tampakan. This will not end here, he said. “I assure you that we will continue to develop and enrich what you have learned for the benefit of the entire municipality.”


South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr, who was guest of honor at the graduation rites saluted the LGU for spearheading the education and livelihood program for the OSYs and for giving emphasis on skills training as a solution to poverty.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov 24 (PIA) -- A technical team of the regional office of the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM 12) expects to complete inspection of Philippine National Police (PNP) units in Soccsksargen Region in the coming week.
“These youths can make use of the knowledge they gained to get jobs. And if they have jobs they have sources of income and could help improve the lives of their families,” the governor said.
Brian Bingil, information officer of NAPOLCOM 12, said the technical personnel directed to conduct the inspections could wind-up the survey next week with the remaining four municipalities of South Cotabato that should undergo the process. South Cotabato is also the last province in Region 12 to undergo the visit this year.
Inspection of police units in South Cotabato as per directive from NAPOLCOM 12 Regional Director Atty. Edilberto Fermil began in November 16 and 17 at the police provincial office and Koronadal City Police Office on Nov 18.
The inspection is aimed at determining “the degree of compliance of PNP to the different policies and standards set by NAPOLCOM to ensure continuing professionalism of the PNP personnel,” Bingil said.
During the visits, inspection team was concerned with “accounting of all uniformed personnel, inventory of all service firearms issued to PNP members, and observation on their bearing and decorum as provided by ‘Oplan Tamang Bihis’.”
They also disseminated important information to police ranks such as qualification requirements for promotion, welfare and benefits, a discipline and other policies.
Police procedures and manners in conducting different police operations were also emphasized during these visits.
In several occasions Atty. Fermil reminded police personnel that “a police officer is bound to respect rights of civilians during operation like Oplan Kapkap Bakal and other searches. He or she must be courteous and prudent especially when carrying a service firearm while accosting civilians.”
This week, the inspection team composed of law enforcement evaluation officer (LEEO 3) Cristina Arevalo as team leader, LEEO 2 Gemma Panes, LEEO 2 Paul Sarino, and LEEO 2 Jerry Galanto went to the municipalities of Norala, Sto. Niño, Surallah, Banga, Lake Sebu, and T’boli.
Anytime next week they will visit the remaining municipalities of Polomolok, Tupi, Tantangan, and Tampakan.
Inspection activities started in the first quarter for the Regional Police Office 12 based in General Santos City and General Santos City Police Office. Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato City were inspected in second quarter and North Cotabato in the third. Inspection of police units in Sarangani was completed in October.
After the team has completed the inspection, they are expected to submit a consolidated report, which will be made basis of recommendations that the NAPOLCOM regional chief will submit to the chiefs of police, police provincial director or the police regional director, wherever these are actionable.
Using the inspection report, RD Fermil may also submit inputs to NAPOLCOM commissioners for formulation of new policies and standards. (PIA 12)


==Automated Rain Gauge to be installed in R 12==
==DOLE 12 pushes for voluntary compliance with labor laws thru ICP==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=64854
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611336621727
*Monday, November 21, 2011
*Thursday, May 10, 2012
:by PIA Press Release
:by Danilo E. Doguiles




KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 10 (PIA) -- In line with its advocacy to promote industrial peace in the entire Soccsksargen Region, the regional office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-12) pushes for more voluntary compliance by companies and establishments to labor laws and standards.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov. 21 (PIA) -- An Automated Rain Gauge (ARG) will be installed in the last quarter of the year in region 12.
Charmaine Dawn Ladot-Sonsona, labor communications officer of DOLE 12, said through the Incentivizing Compliance Program (ICP), they are encouraging establishments to abide by occupational safety and health standards, labor standards, and labor-management dispute resolution among others
This was disclosed by Department of Science and Technology (DOST) XII director Zenaida Hadji Raof Laidan who said that the ARG, one of the four kinds of flood monitoring instruments, is an instrument which is equipped with sensors that can gather and record the amount of rainfall over a set period of time, wind velocity, air temperature and air humidity.
The other vital flood monitoring instruments, Laidan continued, are automatic water level gauge, manual rain gauge and manual water level gauge.
The DOST XII director said the Department of Science and Technology has been beefing up the Philippine Real Time Environment Data Acquisition and Interpretation for Climate-related Tragedy (PREDICT).
PREDICT, she elaborated, is a nationwide system that is meant to complement the existing observation capability of DOST-PAG-ASA.
Recently, three automated weather stations (AWS) which are capable of monitoring weather situations in the region and generate particular data on rainfall were installed in the region..
The AWS are located in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, one at the General Santos City Airport and another at the Cotabato City's People's Palace (City Hall).
Laidan explained that the said AWS are equipped with sensors capable of measuring weather parameters, wind speed, rain amount, duration, and intensity.(OTSUDARIA/PIA 12)


==After the crackdown on illegal miners, SouthCot now eyes illegal gold processors==
“ICP encourages voluntary compliance first by giving recognition and incentives to a company’s initiatives to voluntarily comply with labor laws or having implemented a much higher standard and second by assisting a non-compliant company through training and technical assistance to enable the company to comply with the requirements,” Sonsona explained.  
*Source: http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2011/11/20/after-the-crackdown-on-illegal-miners-southcot-now-eyes-illegal-gold-processors/
*Sunday| November 20, 2011
:by mnicc


Incentives for these companies include a tripartite (management-labor-government) Seal of Excellence for their establishments which should also be carried on their products, she added.


In Region 12, nine establishments have already been enrolled in the ICP.


KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/20 Nov) — After cracking down on illegal small-scale mining activities in the gold-rush town of T’boli in South Cotabato, the provincial government’s next targets are the gold processors in the area.
These are Dole Philippines Inc (Dolefil Inc.); Sagittarius Mining Incorporated, and South Cotabato Integrated Port Services, Inc. in South Cotabato; ALSONS Industries; Notre Dame of Tacurong College in Sultan Kudarat; Cotabato Light in Cotabato City; and Energy Development Corporation-MDGP and Stanfilco - North Cotabato Operation in North Cotabato.  
Only 15 of 200 gold processors in the province are operating with permits, South Cotabato Governor Arthur Pingoy said, adding, the province could have earned at least P1.2 million if only all operators of ball mills are legally operating.
Annual taxes and fees imposed by the provincial government on the ball mill operators or small-scale gold processors are estimated at P6,000 each.
Pingoy said the province could have earned P3 million this year from the ball mill operators, and small-scale miners but the actual collections from these two sectors did not even reach P200,000 because many of them are operating illegally.
Pingoy said they are targeting from P5 million to P10 million earnings from the small-scale mining activities and ball mill operators next year.
He said this would be a big help to the provincial government’s coffers,  particularly with the expected P20 million IRA cut next year due to the conversion of municipalities into cities.
Last month, South Cotabato ordered the closure of 300 gold tunnels for operating illegally and for unsafe mining practices.
But this week, the provincial government allowed several small-scale tunnel operators to resume their activities after they complied with environmental and work safety requirements.
The closure of the 21-hectare small-scale mining area came also because of  overlapping land claim of the T’boli Minahang Bayan Multi-Purpose Cooperative (TMBMPC) and the Maguan clan in the gold-rich mountain.
In 1994, then Gov. Hilario de Pedro III issued Executive Order 12 declaring 21 hectares as “minahang bayan” or people’s mining site in favor of the TMBMPC.
In recent years, the Maguan clan claimed the area under their ancestral domain and demanded that mining operations there by the TMBMPC members should have their consent.
The 21 hectare minesite is within the tenement of Tribal Mining Corp’s 85-hectare under Mineral Production Sharing Agreement 090-97-XI granted in 1997. The agreement has a lifespan of 25 years.
Tribal Mining has partnered with Canadian firm Cadan Resources Corp. for the commercial development of  its T’boli gold-silver project, which is just awaiting final approval from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
The Court of Appeals earlier ruled that the conflict over rights between the mining firm and the small-scale miners involving the disputed area shall be resolved by a Regional Panel of Arbitrators, which is a quasi-judicial body annexed to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. (Bong S. Sarmiento/MindaNews)


==South Cotabato embarks on massive rehab of bamboo plantations==
She said, before these companies could be awarded with the Tripartite Seal of Excellence, they should have abided with the following criteria: Tripartite Certificate of compliance on Labor Standards, Gawad Kaligtasan and Kalusugan, Certificate of Child Labor Free Establishment, National Productivity Olympics Award or its equivalent, and Outstanding LMC Awardee for Industrial Peace.
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=386878
*November 18, 2011, 1:32 pm
:by (PNA)
FFC/AVE/HST


On April 20, 2012, Tripartite Certification Committee (TCC) met to discuss the results of the assessment done by the social auditors, which is composed of labor representatives Francis Gales and Mr. Ronnie Mondragon, Regional Tripartite and Industrial Peace Council vice chair for management Carlito Uy and management representative Norlan Yap.


Based on the audit results, Sonsona said, the enrolled establishments will submit necessary documents for remediation where compliance gaps are addressed and corrected.


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Nov. 18 (PNA) – The provincial government of South Cotabato is embarking on the massive rehabilitation and expansion of bamboo plantations in bid to hasten the development of the province’s bamboo industry.
DOLE 12 management aims to nominate the company or companies who will qualify based on criteria set forth by Department Order No. 011 , series of 2011 for the National Recognition Awards, she said.  
Meanwhile, during the April 20 meeting of the TCC-ICP, Dolefil Inc., released a check amounting to P1.7 million for the payment of the balance for the rice benefits of its employees.  


Engr. Mama Samaon, provincial environment and natural resources officer, said the initiative was also aimed to complement efforts by local bamboo industry players to increase their production of engineered bamboo, which has been posting huge demands in the markets.
The ICP guideline (Department Order 115-11, series of 2011) states: “promotion of voluntary compliance with the involvement of workers and employers is a complementary approach to a) imbed a culture of voluntary compliance with labor laws; b) ensure fair, expeditious and non-litigious settlement of disputes; c) enhance workplace productivity; promote decent work; and increase the level of Philippine competitiveness.” (DEDoguiles- PIA 12/DOLE-12


Initially, he said some 90 hectares of bamboo plantation along the province’s major rivers – Allah, Sapali and Banga - are due for rehabilitation in the coming months.
==DA 12 assures dispersed machineries to farmer groups were of high quality==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611336537753
*Wednesday, May 9, 2012
:by  Danilo E. Doguiles


He said South Cotabato (2nd District) Rep. Daisy Avance-Fuentes has committed to pour in some P2 million through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the project.


Aside from the project, he said they are also targeting to plant 25,000 bamboo seedlings along the banks of other rivers to replace those that were earlier destroyed by severe flooding.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 9 (PIA) -- DA 12 Regional Executive Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan refuted earlier report of a TV station in nearby General Santos City that the farm machineries distributed to farmers in Soccsksargen Region on March 30 were defective.  


Samaon said the DENR has been pushing for the massive planting of bamboo as an alternative for fruit bearing trees and hardwood since it grows five times faster than trees.
Datukan said, it came to her attention that a news report in one of the local TV stations in Gensan had the headline, “Ilang makinang natangap ng mga magsasaka sa DA, depektibo.”


He said it also offers a potential source of income for farmers since bamboo products are presently gaining popularity in the markets.
The report was based on an interview with some farmers in Surallah town.  


In South Cotabato, he said bamboos are used as poles and split for flat baskets; props to support fruit-bearing banana; for construction of sheds and nipa huts; furniture; and various handicrafts.
Although some units had minor defects, Datukan explained, those found with some flaws were not released to the beneficiaries pending compliance by supplier to the request of DA 12 to conduct proper quality checkup and to come up with necessary adjustments before these will be finally awarded to the recipients.  


Most of the products are marketed locally and in nearby provinces and cities within the region, he said.
“The defect is only at the mounting and spindle part of the hand tractor and thresher, respectively,” Dir. Datukan pointed out.  


Samaon said the top producers of bamboo products are Koronadal City and the municipalities of Tampakan, Banga, Tantangan, Tupi, Polomolok and Lake Sebu.
During the interview with the TV reporters, some of the recipients, like the members BINTIKO extended their gratitude for receiving a number of farm machines including one thresher, one 4-wheel drive tractor, and one hand tractor but also said that their thresher was held by DA pending further quality check because of a minor factory defect in their unit.  


The official said a company based in Davao City recently met with bamboo growers in the province to explore the forging of a supply contract for the production of 7,500 bamboo poles per month for three years.
Unfortunately, Datukan said, the words “factory defects” were highlighted in the news report.  


The provincial government earlier helped establish the South Cotabato Bamboo Industry Development Council, which was initially tasked to formulate plans and harmonize all bamboo-related programs and projects in the province.
BINTIKO Chairman Jonathan Javelosa called up the DA Regional Office and told Regional Technical Director Jimmy M. Olivo that such comment in no way intended to undermine or discredit the Department of Agriculture.  


The newly-established council is slated to join the upcoming sub-regional bamboo conference in Region 12 or Southwestern Mindanao to discuss possible convergence initiatives as well as the region’s potentials and capacity for bamboo production.
“The DA stands for quality assured equipment and ensures that any fabrication defects must be replaced by the supplier, since these are under the one-year warranty and service after sales agreement,”Dir. Datukan said.  


==MGB-12 recommends closure of mine tunnels in landslide-prone areas in South Cotabato town==
Starting immediately, Dir Datukan promised that all units will undergo thorough and careful quality inspection instead of random and sampling check only.  
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=386590
*November 17, 2011, 7:40 pm
:by (PNA)
DCT/LAM/AVE


Meanwhile, Chairman Arnulfo Beltijar of San Felipe Irrigators Association in Tantangan, South Cotabato said that the farm machinery they received were in good performing conditions.


“We will take good care of these sets of farm machinery given by the DA,” Beltijar said.


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Nov. 17 (PNA) -– The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has recommended the total closure of mine tunnels in some portions of a gold rush area in T’boli town in South Cotabato due to safety concerns.
The P21-million worth of farm machinery was distributed to various farmer groups in Region 12 to further improve their area’s agricultural productivity.  


Engr. Reynaldo Duque, MGB-12 mines safety section chief, said that results of the geo-hazard mapping earlier conducted by the agency showed that several portions of the gold mining area in Barangays Kematu and Desawo in T’boli were considered unsafe for further mining activities due to the possible occurrence of landslides and related incidents.
The project is part of the Agri Pinoy Rice Program’s Mechanization that enables to mobilize productive farming in the region.  


Duque said the areas that they recommended for closure were the elevated or upper portions of the mountains that straddle the two villages.
Dir Datukan reiterated that these agricultural machines and equipment were procured through RA 9184 otherwise known as the Government Procurement Reform Act directing the Bids and Awards Committee to be responsible in the bidding process therefore these machines are of high quality considering that the winning bidders provided the farmer’s preferred brands, “Kubota” and “Yanmar.”.  


“Based on our assessment, there are nine mine tunnels in these areas that should be permanently closed down,” he said in a media forum in Koronadal City.
For the next awarding of farm equipment, Dir Datukan ordered the one-on-one checking on the unit to reassure that these were in good working condition before these are awarded to the intended beneficiaries. (DED - PIA 12/DA-RAFID 12)


Duque said they also pushed for the banning of excavations and establishment of mine tunnels in the mountains of Sitio El Lubog, which were almost wiped out several years ago by the destructive "banlas" or sluice mining activities.
==South Cotabato police to lay down anti-drug strategies==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611336448265
*Tuesday, May 8, 2012
:by Danilo E. Doguiles


Sluice mining, which had been declared as illegal, is a method that employs the pouring of large amounts of water on a mountain’s surface to extract the rocks containing the gold ores.


Geology experts at the MGB-Region 12 had identified Kematu as a high-risk area based on its geo-hazard mapping and assessment.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 8 (PIA) -- Police officials in South Cotabato will meet Friday, May 11, to craft strategies against illegal drugs and drug abuse.  


Earlier this year, the provincial government suspended all small-scale mining activities in T’boli town after four miners were buried alive in a landslide in several mine tunnels in Barangay Kematu.
Eduardo Siason, permanent representative of the governor to the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) said, “the action planning would require municipal and city police stations to focus their activities on drug problems in their respective area.”


The local government later allowed the resumption of the mining activities after local mining operators agreed to comply with the safety standards set by MGB-12 and the Provincial Environment Management Office.
Invited to the anti-drug strategic planning workshop are the chiefs of police of 10 municipal police stations, and lone city police office, along with one investigator involved in drug cases from each station, as well as agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) assigned in in the province.  


Isidro Janita, acting chief of the newly-established Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO), said they have not yet received a copy of the MGB-12 recommendation regarding the situation of the mining areas in the two T’boli villages.
Highlight of the activity would be the presentation of each police station's anti-drug action plan; PDEA will also present its anti-drug action plan.  


But he vowed to immediately act on the agency’s recommendations and include the matter as among its priorities once they get a copy of the document.


“We will immediately inform the (T’boli) municipal government about it and jointly act on the recommendations. We’ll also conduct orientations and trainings to make the residents and village officials better prepared in case disasters would occur in their areas,” he said.
“Members of the panel will be there to clarify each police station’s strategic plan such as how this will be implemented, sources of fund, and other concerns,” Siason said.  


==Padlocked mining tunnels in T’boli, So. Cotabato re-opened==
After these plans are presented and discussed, he said, each police station will revise their plans according to the suggestions by a panel and present these for approval to Police Provincial Director P/SSupt. Randolph Delfin, Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., and PDEA 12 Regional Director Aileen Lovitos.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=64304
*Wednesday, November 16, 2011
:by Dani Doguiles


Siason said, the action planning is necessary after the provincial board approved Gov. Pingoy’s request for this year’s supplemental budget no. 1, which include P500,000 additional allocation for PADAC operations.


“We want to make sure that the funds that Gov. Pingoy has given us will be spent on the purpose these were intended for,” he said.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov 16 (PIA) --Mining tunnels in Barangay Kematu T’boli, South Cotabato, which were padlocked on October 27, are back in operation after they complied with the requirements needed to be issued permit to operate.
Also with the approval of the supplemental budget, Siason expects the PADAC and its partners would be able to intensify its advocacy projects against drugs, including the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) and its campaigns in the communities.  
South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., who also chairs the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board (PMRB) yesterday led the ceremonial opening of at least 50 tunnels in the 21-hectare Minahang Bayan, after their operators were issued permits to operate in the gold –rich mountain.
The tunnels are part of about 300 tunnels that Gov. Pingoy ordered closed last month until the operators have sorted out their conflict with the Maguan Clan on land claims and the issuance of Free and Prior Informed Consent and until they have secured from the provincial the necessary permit to operate.
Engr. Siegfred Flaviano, acting provincial environment management officer, confirmed that operators of the tunnels opened yesterday have finally complied with the requirements and have been issued permit to operate.
“Stoppage order remains in effect for the more than 200 tunnels whose owners have yet to secure permits to operate,” Flaviano explained.
More tunnels covered by the closure order are expected to open in the next few weeks with other tunnel operators now processing necessary documents to be able to legally operate.
Gov. Pingoy expects the provincial government to earn P5 – P10 million in annual revenues once operations of the 300 tunnels in the Minahang Bayan in Barangay Kematu are made legal.
“Hopefully income from the small-scale mining can help increase provincial revenues especially with the reduction of our IRA (internal revenue allotment) next year,” he said.
In 2010, the provincial government only earned about P250,000 from the Minahan ng Bayan, Pingoy said in an interview before the implementation of the closure order.
To monitor activities in the mining site, the provincial government is putting up a detachment in Barangay Kematu. (PIA 12)


==200 bags of illegally-extracted copper ore seized in South Cotabato town==
He also announced that the provincial government will hold search for outstanding municipal and barangay anti-drug abuse councils, where one of the criteria for judging pertains to the implementation of the strategic action plan.  
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=386072
*November 15, 2011, 5:49 pm
:by  (PNA)
LAP/FFC/AVE/RSS


“The awarding will coincide with the celebration of the Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week in November,” Siason said. (DED-PIA 12)


==School supplies on sale on May 16- 18, says DTI–South Cotabato==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611336361509
*Monday, May 7, 2012
:by  Danilo E. Doguiles


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Nov. 15 (PNA) – Environment personnel in South Cotabato province seized late Monday some 200 bags of copper ore that were allegedly extracted illegally from the mineral-rich mountains of Tampakan town.


Eileen Estrada, Tampakan municipal environment and natural resources officer (MENRO), said Tuesday the copper ores were found by their personnel at a portion of Barangay Liberty in Tampakan, which is part of the mines development site of foreign-backed Sagittarius Mines, Inc.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 7 (PIA) -- Parents will receive support from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as they try to look for low-priced school supplies of their children with the opening of classes on June 4.  


“It was reported early Monday to our office by the village chairman [that bags of copper ores] were stored there,” she said.
Elbert Capecio senior trade and industry development specialist of DTI-South Cotabato said they are now preparing for the staging of the three-day “Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan” where school supplies such as notebooks, pens and pencils, coloring tools, and many others, as well as uniforms, bags and shoes, will be offered on discounted prices.  


Estrada said she immediately instructed MENRO personnel to check the report that eventually led to the seizure later in the afternoon.
Capecio said, the Balik-Eskwela Caravan in South Cotabato will be held on May 16, 17, and 18 in Koronadal City “Instead of the usual practice of gathering producers, manufacturers, and other participants in one place, the school supplies will be sold inside the participating malls, and stores.”


The seized illegal copper ores were transported before noon Tuesday to the office of the Provincial Environment and Management Office in Koronadal City, she added.
He identified the participating stores as KCC Mall of Marbel, Ace Centerpoint, Gaisano Grand Mall, and Starbright Store.  


To date, no production permit has been issued to any company or individual for the extraction of copper and gold in the town of Tampakan.
The decision not to gather the participating entities in one place, he explained, was in response to some concerns like pilferage and additional effort and expenses to install booths.  


Sagittarius Mines, which is controlled by Xstrata Copper, the world’s fourth largest copper producer, has rights over the mineral resources in Tampakan town.
Capecio added that based on their monitoring, there has not been changes in the prices of school supplies in the province.  


However, the company’s permit so far is only for exploration.
Besides the Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan next week, DTI-South Cotabato is also preparing for a major discount during South Cotabato province’s T’nalak Festival in July. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)


Estrada did not say who was behind the illegal copper ore extraction.
==Tampakan issue triggers FB word war between military and militant group==
*Source: http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2012/05/06/tampakan-issue-triggers-fb-word-war-between-military-and-militant-group/
*Sunday, May 6, 2012
:by Bong S. Sarmiento


This was the third seizure of a large volume of illegally extracted copper ores from the mountains of Tampakan.


In September last year, authorities seized an estimated eight metric tons (MT) of copper also in Tampakan town. Eight persons were arrested during the operation.
KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/05 May) –  Exchanges between the military and a militant group have lately turned nasty due to the Tampakan copper-gold project issue, with both sides resorting to name-calling via the social network, Facebook.
The 27th Infantry Battalion based in Tupi, SouthCotabato branded Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) –SOCCSKSARGEN spokesperson Ryan Lariba as “liar.” In turn, Bayan-SOCCSKSARGEN called the 27th IB “berdugo,” or butcher or executioner.
The harsh labeling, done via Facebook, originated from the April 22 Earth Day incident when groups supporting the Tampakan project allegedly blocked the solidarity mission of militant, religious and indigenous peoples’ groups from proceeding to the mountains.
In a Facebook post dated April 24, the 27th Infantry (Action) Battalion called Lariba a “liar and wished that his soul burn in hell.”
“You are the one violating the human rights of the members of 27th Infantry Battalion. You know you are making false accusation in public,” the post reads.
“You were there. We were not. You are fabricating stories that are designed to malign the reputation and honor of the men in uniform. You are misleading the general public with your hallucination.” it added.
On Thursday, the Facebook account of Bayan-SOCCSKSARGEN tagged the 27th IB as “berdugo” and alleged protector of Sagittarius Mines, Inc.
It said the mine site had become militarized since news broke out in March that several tribal communities had set up barricades against the Tampakan project in protest to the relocation plans of the mining company.
Lt. Col. Alexis Noel Bravo, 27th IB commander, himself labeled Lariba as a “liar” over a local radio station during the futile attempt of the militant groups to go up Bong Mal district last April 22.
Bong Mal is the boundary between Tampakan town and Kiblawan, Davao del Sur that serves as a crucial artery in  the mines development site.
Blaan communities opposing the Tampakan project have set up several checkpoints in Bong Mal.
At the time, Lariba accused Sagittarius Mines and the 27thInfantry Battalion as behind the efforts to stop them from going to Bong Mal to express their solidarity to the tribesmen opposing the mining venture.
Bravo explained then that those who blocked the solidarity mission were groups supportive of the Tampakan project and that he ordered his troops to stay in their detachments and be prepared as reaction forces in case an accident would happen.


A month before, around 100 MT of illegal copper ores from the mountains of Tampakan were confiscated by authorities in a series of raids in the area. Police tagged the financiers as Taiwanese nationals.
Portions of the way to Bong Mal have steep inclines accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles.
Members of the solidary mission were on board jeepneys, elf trucks and multi-cabs.
The Tampakan project is touted as the largest known undeveloped copper-gold deposit in Southeast Asia.
The estimated contained copper at Tampakan in total resources has risen from 13.9 million metric tons to 15 million MT while estimated contained gold has risen from 16.2 million ounces to 17.9 Moz, according to the latest company study.
In January, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources rejected Sagittarius Mines’ application for an environmental compliance certificate, citing the unresolved open-pit mining ban imposed by South Cotabato province.
The company filed a motion for reconsideration but the Environment department has yet to announce a decision. (Bong Sarmiento/MindaNews)


==So Cotabato eyes development of bamboo industry==
==DOLE-12 to hold more confab on new wage order==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=63947
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611336026419
*Monday, November 14, 2011
*Saturday, May 5, 2012
:by Dani Doguiles
:by Danilo E. Doguiles




KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 5 (PIA) -- After a successful symposium on Wage Order RB XII No. 17 here last May 1, the regional office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) have slated a series of meeting with stakeholders on the new wage order.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov 14 (PIA) -- The industry of bamboo and engineered bamboo is taking shape in South Cotabato, with the initiative of the provincial government.
RTWPB 12 Board Secretary Jessie dela Cruz said the activities are intended to encourage public awareness of Wage Order 17 that became effective last April 18.  
In addition to the massive rehabilitation in riparian zones using bamboo as alternative to fruit-bearing and hardwood trees, South Cotabato provincial government and its partners are tapping into the potential of bamboo as an industry.
Mary Jane Manlisis, senior environment specialist of the Provincial Environment recently announced that the South Cotabato Bamboo Industry Development Council (SCBIDC), chaired by Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., will hold a two-day sub-regional bamboo conference at EMR Center in Koronadal City on November 23 and 24.
“The sub-regional bamboo conference will look into the viability, potentials, and possible investments in the developing industry of bamboo,” Gov. Pingoy said in a communication sent to target participants.
Industry experts including Philippine Bamboo Foundation President Edgardo Manda will be here to present the bamboo industry value chain through which the neighboring provinces can be tapped, business potentials , and technologies for nursery and plantation management.
Among the highlights of the conference is planting of at least 3,500 bamboo seedlings and launching of a community bamboo nursery in Barangay Veterans, Surallah town.
The conference’s theme is “The Wood of the Future is a Grass: Bamboo.”
Bamboo Hub
To further boost the bamboo industry, the provincial government is considering the establishment of a bamboo hub in the province.
Initially, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) , through the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has allocated P9.5 million for the purchase of tools and equipment for the establishment of bamboo nodes in the province.
Bamboo nodes, Manlisis explained , are facilities where raw bamboo will be cut, sliced, treated and dried. From these nodes processed bamboos will be sent to the bamboo hub, where the final processing into finished products such as bamboo tiles and planks will be undertaken.
“Gov. Pingoy has committed to allocate funds for the establishment of a bamboo hub that will ensure that products from nodes are processed, ” Manlisis said.
In its October 17 meeting, the SCBIDC finalized a proposal which lays down two options on the processes that the bamboo hub should include.
In the first option, which needs less than P2 million funding, South Cotabato will establish a hub that will produced engineered bamboo tiles and planks.
In the second option has a budget of less than P4 million, but with this fund, the hub will be able to produce finished products such as school desk, Manlisis explained.
She said the proposal is now with Gov. Pingoy.
“Initially, the hub will be located inside the Protech Center in Koronadal City”
Bamboo Development Council
Both the conference and the plan to put up a bamboo hub in South Cotabato are a result of the establishment of the South Cotabato Bamboo Industry Development Council (SCBIDC) pursuant to Executive Order No. 5, signed by Gov. Pingoy on February 15 this year.
The same EO also institutionalized the South Cotabato’s Kawayan Festival, which showcases bamboo arts and crafts.
The council which includes a multi-sectoral representation is responsible for formulating the Provincial Bamboo Industry Development Plan; harmonizing all bamboo related programs, projects, and other activities through convergence of all related projects; acting as advisory group assisting the Productivity and Technology (Protech) Center in the conduct of annual Kawayan Festival; implementing activities that promote bamboo industry in the province; and sourcing out resources that support bamboo industry.
Bamboo Rehabilitation
With the increasing demand for bamboo and its products, South Cotabato is embarking on a massive bamboo rehabilitation.
Provincial Environment Officer Engr. Mama Samaon said, this year until early next year, they are targeting planting of bamboos at least 90 hectares along tributaries of Allah River, Banga River, and Sapali River.
They are also encouraging farmers as alternative to hardwood and fruit-bearing trees because bamboos grow five times faster than most trees.
Samaon said even with only bamboo poles farmers are assured of reliable income in addition to income from the primary farm produce.
Recently, Nakayama Industries based in Digos, Davao del Sur, came to South Cotabato to enter into contract for a regular supply of 7,000 bamboo poles per month. (PIA 12)


==No sufficient reason to adjust wages – DOLE 12==
He said that wage symposiums will be held in Tacurong City for Sultan Kudarat area on May 4 (Friday); in Cotabato City on May 17 and in Kidapawan City for North Cotabato province on May 24.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=63762
*Sunday, November 13, 2011
:by Dani Doguiles


“Wage clinics for General Santos City and Sarangani province area is tentatively scheduled on May 11. We aim to cover the entire Soccsksargen area before the end of May,” he said.


Through these wage clinics, DOLE 12 and RTWPB 12 explain how the board - which include among others labor and management representatives - arrived at the decision to order an additional P10 to 14 to the daily cost of living allowance (COLA), decide on the salient features of the new wage order, as well as penalties for non-compliance and provisions regarding exemptions.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov 13 (PIA) -- Wage adjustment in the private sector is not yet necessary, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board of Soccsksargen region (RTWPB 12) has decided in its recent meeting.
The activities are also venues where stakeholders can clarify issues regarding the provisions of the wage order and implementation of the same.  
Ma. Gloria Tango, regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment said, the wage board met on Wednesday, among their agenda was to review regional economic factors and determine whether there is enough reason for a wage adjustment, considering that the present wage order is already past the one-year prescriptive period.
“Based on the data on the prices of basic commodities we have gathered from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics of the Department of Agriculture and data on prices of fuel from the Department of Energy, the board has found no sufficient basis to adjust the minimum age in the region.”
Despite these, Tango ordered continued close monitoring of prices of the commodities across the region in the next two months.
Earlier, RTWPB Secretary Jessie dela Cruz explained that the board has not yet received a single petition asking for a review of Wage Order No. 16 or an increase of the basic wages, although the ban for filing a petition has expired last month.
Wage Order No. 16, approved on October 31 last year, increased the daily cost of living allowances of workers in the private sector by P15.
Thus, the prevailing minimum daily wage of workers in the region is P260 for non-agricultural workers, P240 for plantation workers, P235 for agricultural non-plantation workers, P240 for retail and service establishments with more than 10 employees and P234 for retail and service establishments with less than 10 employees. (PIA 12)


==63,000 displaced persons in Maguindanao to receive livelihood aid from New Zealand==
During the symposium in Koronadal City on Tuesday, dela Cruz said the board decided to pass the new wage “motu proprio” after a series of public consultations, and based on the socio-economic data provided by the National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Agriculture.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=63703
*Saturday, November 12, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles and Salembai Abdullah


“We would like to clarify the wrong notion that only DOLE fixes the wage in the region, he said. “Both the labor and management sectors are equally represented in the board.


Simplicio Villarta Jr of the Federation of Free Workers and Jomarie Angeles of the ALO-TUCP sit in the board as labor sector representatives while Atty. Eugenio Soyao and Warren Gregorio Manilay represented the management sector, dela Cruz said.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov 12 (PIA) -- At least 63,000 internally displaced persons, comprised of about 10,550 farming and fishing households in Maguindanao are set to benefit from a livelihood project that the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Government of New Zealand and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DAF-ARMM) will implement soon.
The board is being chaired by the DOLE regional director.  
The resolution approving the program implementation plan of the project “Restoring Agricultural Livelihoods in Conflict-Affected Areas in Maguindanao Province of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao” was signed in a first meeting of the project coordinating committee at the Al Nor Hotel and Convention Center in Cotabato City yesterday.
Cesar Galvan, project team leader from FAO said, the project has an implementation duration of one year and primarily aims to bring back the agriculture-based livelihood of the target returning IDPs.
Assistance to IDPs is through provision of agricultural input packages that include rice, corn, and vegetable seeds; fertilizers; hand tools; livestock/poultry; and fishing gears; coupled with conduct of solicited trainings and technology demonstrations.
“This will help the IDPs rebuild their livelihoods and lessen the rate of their dependency on external food aid,” Alberto Aduna, emergency coordination officer of FAO said.
A formal launching of the project is scheduled on November 22 in either Barangay Liong or Barangay Balakanen in Datu Piang town, Maguindanao.
A joint press release of the FAO and Government of New Zealand in June this year said that the New Zealand Government has provided a grant amounting to US$ 1,351,413 for FAO to assist IDPs and returnee households in Maguindanao restore their farming activities.
In the same press release, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Andrew Matheson said the project “is another example of New Zealand Government’s commitment to responding to the most critical needs of conflict-affected people, particularly in Maguindanao province.”
“We hope to contribute in restoring and having lasting impact on food security, national status, and income generation of the IDPs,” he added. (PIA 12/DAF-ARMM)


==DOH XII prioritizes contact tracing of HIV-AIDS victims==
Dela Cruz said that the board decides to raise the minimum wage based on the following criteria: needs of the workers and their families; capacity of pay of the employee or industry; comparable wages; and requirements for national development, investment, and employment generation.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=63539
*Friday, November 11, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release


Other factors considered were changes in the prices of the basic commodities and services, inflation rate, and poverty threshold.


“As of February 2011, poverty threshold level in Region 12 is at P226.62 per day for a family with five members,” he said. “If we consider, our lowest minimum wage was already P234 before the implementation of the new wage order.”


KORONADAL CITY, November 11 (PIA) -- More than the usual prevention and control measures, the Department of Health has embarked into contact tracing which is the method of finding and counselling the sexual partners of a person who has been diagnosed with HIV-AIDS or other sexually transmittesd disease.
Wage Order RBXII No. 17 orders the integration of the P15 COLA ordered in the previous order into the basic pay, which dela Cruz pointed out also increases the bases of computation of the 13th month pay and other benefits and bonuses of the laborers.  
This was disclosed by Dr. Ali Tumama, the focal person on HIV-AIDS of DOH-Center for Health Development, region 12 who emphasized the importance of monitoring the whereabouts of the victims and their partners for counselling as preventive measure in the spread of the disease.
In an interview over "Kalinga Kutawato," a radio program sponsored by the Philippine Information Agency, Department of Health and other member-agencies under the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, region XII (RDRRMC XII) and aired over DXOM-Koronadal City, DXMS-Cotabato City and DXND-Kidapawan City, Tumama revealed that region XII has a total of 45 HIV-AIDS victims of which 25 are from General Santos City while the others are from North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Cotabato City and Tacurong City.
Dr. Tumama said while the stigma of the disease is still very strong, the DOH envisions that this will be diminished in due time to gain cooperation from the victims themselves.
He explained the provisions of Republic Act No. 8504 or the act promulgating policies and prescribing measures for the prevention and control of HIV-AIDS which institutes a nationwide HIV-AIDS information and educational program. The law also establishes a comprehensive HIV-AIDS monitoring system,and strengthening the Philippine National Aids Council.
Tumama underscored the significance of HIV/AIDS education in schools, in the workplace, in the communities, among Filipinos going abroad, among tourists and transients.
He mentioned safeguard provisions under the law which includes that no laboratory or institution shall accept a donation of tissue or organ unless a sample from the donor has been tested negative for HIV.
Likewise, he pointed out that the DOH in coordination with concerned professional organizations and hospital associations, shall issue guidelines against HIV transmission during surgical, dental, embalming, tatooing, or similar procedures.
There is no compulsory HIV testing, as provided under the law, but the government encourages voluntary testing for individuals with a high risk for contracting HIV, Dr. Tumama concluded. (OTSudaria/PIA)


==DOH XII prioritizes contact tracing of HIV-AIDS victims==
The wage clinic in Koronadal City was attended by more than 200 participants from labor and management groups, payroll officers of establishments, nongovernment organizations, media, private schools, and other stakeholders.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=63539
*Thursday, November 10, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release


Dela Cruz also pointed out that so far they have not received any petition or formal complaint against the implementation of the new wage order. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)


==NDRRMC: Whirlwind hits Bukidnon, flash floods hit South Cotabato==
*Source: http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/257072/news/regions/ndrrmc-whirlwind-hits-bukidnon-flash-floods-hit-south-cotabato
*Friday, May 4, 2012
:by  KG, GMA News


KORONADAL CITY, November 11 (PIA) -- More than the usual prevention and control measures, the Department of Health has embarked into contact tracing which is the method of finding and counselling the sexual partners of a person who has been diagnosed with HIV-AIDS or other sexually transmittesd disease.
This was disclosed by Dr. Ali Tumama, the focal person on HIV-AIDS of DOH-Center for Health Development, region 12 who emphasized the importance of monitoring the whereabouts of the victims and their partners for counselling as preventive measure in the spread of the disease.
In an interview over "Kalinga Kutawato," a radio program sponsored by the Philippine Information Agency, Department of Health and other member-agencies under the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, region XII (RDRRMC XII) and aired over DXOM-Koronadal City, DXMS-Cotabato City and DXND-Kidapawan City, Tumama revealed that region XII has a total of 45 HIV-AIDS victims of which 25 are from General Santos City while the others are from North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Cotabato City and Tacurong City.
Dr. Tumama said while the stigma of the disease is still very strong, the DOH envisions that this will be diminished in due time to gain cooperation from the victims themselves.
He explained the provisions of Republic Act No. 8504 or the act promulgating policies and prescribing measures for the prevention and control of HIV-AIDS which institutes a nationwide HIV-AIDS information and educational program. The law also establishes a comprehensive HIV-AIDS monitoring system,and strengthening the Philippine National Aids Council.
Tumama underscored the significance of HIV/AIDS education in schools, in the workplace, in the communities, among Filipinos going abroad, among tourists and transients.
He mentioned safeguard provisions under the law which includes that no laboratory or institution shall accept a donation of tissue or organ unless a sample from the donor has been tested negative for HIV.
Likewise, he pointed out that the DOH in coordination with concerned professional organizations and hospital associations, shall issue guidelines against HIV transmission during surgical, dental, embalming, tatooing, or similar procedures.
There is no compulsory HIV testing, as provided under the law, but the government encourages voluntary testing for individuals with a high risk for contracting HIV, Dr. Tumama concluded. (OTSudaria/PIA)


==DOH XII prioritizes contact tracing of HIV-AIDS victims==
At least one house was destroyed while 12 others were damaged after a whirlwind hit a residential area in Valencia City in Bukidnon Thursday afternoon.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=63539
*Thursday, November 10, 2011
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said the incident occurred at 3:30 p.m. at Purok 1-A in Lumbo in Valencia City.
:by PIA Press Release
It cited initial information indicating 13 families were affected, although no one was reported hurt.
   
A local disaster risk reduction and management team was sent to the area to assess the damage, the NDRRMC said.


South Cotabato
Meanwhile, the NDRRMC also said a flash flood hit two villages in South Cotabato Wednesday.
Citing belated initial reports, the NDRRMC said the incident occurred between 2 and 3 p.m. at Lambingi and Kusan villages in Banga town.
It said 26.7 hectares of corn fields were damaged in Lambingi, while properties and infrastructure were damaged in Kusan.
At least 12 farmers from Lambingi and two families from Kusan were affected.
The estimated damage to property was pegged at P200,000.


==JICA president vows continued support to Upi, Maguindanao==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611336013275
*Thursday, May 3, 2012
:by  (Dani Doguiles and Hannadi PIA/-Upi LGU) 


KORONADAL CITY, November 11 (PIA) -- More than the usual prevention and control measures, the Department of Health has embarked into contact tracing which is the method of finding and counselling the sexual partners of a person who has been diagnosed with HIV-AIDS or other sexually transmittesd disease.
This was disclosed by Dr. Ali Tumama, the focal person on HIV-AIDS of DOH-Center for Health Development, region 12 who emphasized the importance of monitoring the whereabouts of the victims and their partners for counselling as preventive measure in the spread of the disease.
In an interview over "Kalinga Kutawato," a radio program sponsored by the Philippine Information Agency, Department of Health and other member-agencies under the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, region XII (RDRRMC XII) and aired over DXOM-Koronadal City, DXMS-Cotabato City and DXND-Kidapawan City, Tumama revealed that region XII has a total of 45 HIV-AIDS victims of which 25 are from General Santos City while the others are from North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Cotabato City and Tacurong City.
Dr. Tumama said while the stigma of the disease is still very strong, the DOH envisions that this will be diminished in due time to gain cooperation from the victims themselves.
He explained the provisions of Republic Act No. 8504 or the act promulgating policies and prescribing measures for the prevention and control of HIV-AIDS which institutes a nationwide HIV-AIDS information and educational program. The law also establishes a comprehensive HIV-AIDS monitoring system,and strengthening the Philippine National Aids Council.
Tumama underscored the significance of HIV/AIDS education in schools, in the workplace, in the communities, among Filipinos going abroad, among tourists and transients.
He mentioned safeguard provisions under the law which includes that no laboratory or institution shall accept a donation of tissue or organ unless a sample from the donor has been tested negative for HIV.
Likewise, he pointed out that the DOH in coordination with concerned professional organizations and hospital associations, shall issue guidelines against HIV transmission during surgical, dental, embalming, tatooing, or similar procedures.
There is no compulsory HIV testing, as provided under the law, but the government encourages voluntary testing for individuals with a high risk for contracting HIV, Dr. Tumama concluded. (OTSudaria/PIA)


==RDC XII pushes convergence initiatives in PNoy's greening program==
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 3 (PIA) -- The new president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) reiterated the international donor agency’s commitment to help in the development efforts of Upi town in Maguindanao.
*Source: ww.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=63223
*Thursday, November 10, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release


“In behalf of JICA, I promise you that we would continue to work closely with you in the coming years," Dr. Akihito Tanaka told Upi Mayor Mayor Ramon Piang Sr., Vice Mayor Alexis Platon, SB members, and heads of offices.


Tanaka, along with some members of the International Team and officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Social Fund Project (ASFP), visited Upi yesterday as part of their monitoring of the implementation of JICA projects in the area.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov. 10 (PIA) -- Members of the Regional Development Council, region XII participated in a planning-workshop for the preparation of the Regional Strategic Action Plan of the National Greening Program of President Benigno S. Aquino,III towards a clean and healthy environment.
These projects include several school buildings, heavy equipment, and solar dryers as well as goat raising project in support of efforts to promote Halal industry in Maguindanao province.  
Under the National Greening program as provided by Executive Order 26, 1.5 billion trees covering about 1.5 million hectares public domain shall be planted for a period of six (6) years from 2011 to 2016.
Rolando Doria, economic development committee chairman and private sector representative, economic sector, RDC XII underscored the importance of the galvanized efforts of all sectors in the greening program as a policy of the State to pursue sustainable development for poverty reduction, food security, biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation and adaptation.
"We will complement present initiatives of both government and non-government organizations to boost the greening program in region XII not only as a matter of contingency in view of the prevailing environmental degradation but likewise for the protection and conservation of what is left of our natural resources for the future generation," Doria said.
NEDA XII assistant regional director Phlorita Ridao said to contribute to the vision of attaining green and healthy environment, the region shall improve its ecological integrity by rehabilitating, conserving and protecting its ecosystems and enforcing compliance to environmental laws.
Ridao further said that reforestation efforts of denuded upland and wetland areas have to be accelerated.
DENR XII Forest Management Services director Ernesto Lezada disclosed that the region has a total forest cover of 1,981,371 hectares with Cotabato province with the biggest cover of 663,707 hectares followed by Sultan Kudarat, 483,198 hectares. The other areas are South Cotabato, 422, 233 hectares; Sarangani province, 398,079 hectares and Cotabato City, 14,071.
Lezada said a total of 535,312 hectares are potential NGP sites outside forestry tenures. These areas, he added, comprise of other land, natural, grassland - 92,498 hectares; other wooded land, shrubs - 372,413 hectares and other wooded lands - 535,312 hectares. (OTSudaria/PIA 12)


==NFA S. Cotabato opens warehouses in Upper Valley area==
The visit was the first trip of the 56-year old official to Upi and Mindanao. Tanaka , which JICA Newsletter described as “a renowned academic of international relations” began his role as JICA president on April 1, 2012.
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=63004
*Wednesday, November 09, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


Tanaka is vice president of the Tokyo University. He replaced Dr. Sodako Ogata.


“I am quite impressed with the mayor’s leadership and the cooperation of local officials to realize good governance in the implementation of projects,” he said.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov 9 (PIA) -- Officials of South Cotabato have recently asked Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala for the inclusion of either Sarangani Province or General Santos City in the Roll on, Roll off (RORO) route.
He also congratulated Mayor Piang “for his vigor and dynamism.”  
Provincial Agriculture Officer Reynaldo Legaste said putting up of a RORO terminal in Glan, Sarangani will be an advantage to South Cotabato’s farmers, especially growers of quality vegetables.
Legaste explained that approximately 30 percent of the province’s vegetable production in the province are sold outside of the province through the nearest RORO ports in Davao City or Cagayan de Oro City.
“At times when there is surplus of vegetable in Davao City, our vegetables are rejected,” he said. “The same happens in Cagayan (de Oro).”
Legaste said thousands of farmers in South Cotabato and neighboring areas will benefit if a RORO station is set up in either Glan or Gensan.
“If this is realized we will be able to improve the capacity and provide opportunities for our vegetable growers,” he said.
Growers in the province and neighboring areas will be able to immediately ship their produce at cheaper cost, he added.
Legaste said, vegetable farmers in the province have already been organized, “which means that we already have a formal structure with whom we can talk about creating a production program and link with possible markets.”
South Cotabato is considered as a major producer of high-quality vegetables in southern and central Mindanao.
Major production areas include Tupi municipality, particularly Brgy. Miasong, which has more than 300 hectares devoted to vegetables and the highland barangay of Ned in Lake Sebu town where another 300 hectares are recently being developed. (PIA 12)


==PNP sets security plan for Yuletide season, deploys personnel in malls==
On his part, Mayor Piang thanked JICA for its support to the development of the underprivileged Upi town through construction of roads, improvement of the level of education in the municipality, assistance to local farmers.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=62879
*Tuesday, November 08, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


==N. Cotabato hands P5.9 M worth of infrastructure to Arakan LGU==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611335926114
*Wednesday, May 2, 2012
:by (DEDoguiles – PIA 12)




KORONADAL CITY, Nov 8 (PIA) -- Barely a week after the successful implementation of Oplan Kaluluwa, Region 12’s Police Regional Office (PRO 12) is already on the final stage of setting up security plans for the Christmas season.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 2 (PIA) -- North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza and officials of the provincial government recently turned-over to the municipality of Arakan, P5.9 million worth of infrastructure projects .  
Police Regional Director P/CSupt. Benjardi Mantele said they have already “set on paper” the security plans in time for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
“We have already written down the duties and responsibilities of each unit,” he said.
After these plans have been finalized he said, he will call a meeting with police provincial directors and commanders and chiefs of police for a discussion and implementation of the security measures.
During the implementation of the plans, he said, senior officers will be going around their jurisdictions to supervise and make sure that plans are properly followed.
Mantele, however, emphasized that the police personnel need the assistance and cooperation of the public in the success of the security plans, pointing out that keeping the celebrations peaceful and orderly remains a concerted effort of the police and the communities.
Mantele has also ordered beefing up of security in malls and supermarkets that are expected to be busy in the coming weeks.
Effective yesterday, malls and supermarkets in General Santos City have been assigned with two to four police personnel to help security guards, particularly in assuring that no dangerous or illegal items such as firearms are brought inside the establishments.
He said he has already directed chiefs of police in the other parts of the region to also assign police personnel in malls in their respective jurisdictions. (PIA 12)


==So Cotabato sustains nutrition award with multi-sectoral participation==
In a press release sent to PIA 12 yesterday the Information and Development Communication Division (ICDC) of the provincial government reported that the turn-over ceremony was held at the opening program of the Gov. Lala 2nd Summer Kids Peace Camp in the municipality on April 23.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=62799
*Monday, November 07, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


Infrastructure projects turned-over to the LGU include multi-purpose covered court worth P3,483,800. This, according to the ICDC report was as an incentive for its successful implementation of the 1st summer kids peace camp last year.


The provincial government also turned over P2.47 million worth of improvement which upgraded the Arakan Rural Health Unit as a Basic Emergency Management Of Obstetrics Cases (BEMOC) facility. The project was funded by the European Commission.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov. 7 (PIA) -- Active participation of non-government and civic organizations, local government officials, communities, and other stakeholders haS helped South Cotabato in its fight against malnutrition, an official of the provincial government said.
With the upgrade, the BEMOC facility in Arakan can now provide delivery services for pregnant women. It is also seen to improve accessibility, utilization, and quality of services for the treatment of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.  
Provincial Nutrition Officer Ma. Anna Uy said, South Cotabato recently received the Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition (CROWN) First Year Maintenance Award for sustaining a downward trend in prevalence of underweight children in the province.
Dr. Ervin Luntao, chairman of the committee on health of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, in behalf of Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. and the province of South Cotabato received the award on October 25 from Health Secretary Enrique Ona, chairman of the governing board of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) in a ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center.
Uy announced prevalence rate among children below 6 years old in South Cotabato this year has gone down to 8.16 percent as compared to 9.66 percent in 2010 when it got its CROWN award.
But Uy pointed out, the province’s supplemental feeding program could not have achieved such success without the help of partners in the private sector.
“Among the most active of these private partners are Dole Philippines, Mahintana Foundation, Rotary Clubs of Polomolok and Koronadal, cooperatives under the umbrella of Dolefil, the Philippine Association of Technologist and many other civic organizations,” she said.
With these private organizations, the provincial government is able to showcase supplemental feeding program such as the Kapitbisig Para sa Kabataan, which they implemented in cooperation with the Mahintana Foundation, for the local government units to replicate, she explained.
“Much help also came from the municipal and city government as well as the communities, because if they have not joined in the implementation of this concerted effort, we could have sustained our accomplishments,” she said.
She cioted that almost all barangays in the province have already allocated funds for their own nutrition programs.
CROWN Award is given by the NNC to local government units who have good performance in managing nutrition plans for three consecutive years.
An LGU like South Cotabato should receive three consecutive CROWN maintenance awards – proof that it has shown exemplary performance in managing its nutrition plans -- before it can be accorded the Nutrition Honor Award, the highest nutrition award in the country.
The NNC, in its programme for this year’s awarding ceremonies, cited South Cotabato for its partnership with many sectors in its fight for malnutrition.
“Each sector can help solve the problem of malnutrition. The key is to be able to weave each sector’s contribution into a cohesive whole through shared decisions on priorities and targets,” Pingoy said
Uy said, “With the support of Gov. Pingoy’s administration and with the active participation of the other stakeholders, we can achieve the highest honor.”
Data from the Regional Nutrition Council showed that South Cotabato has exhibited a downtrend in the prevalence of underweight children 0 to 71 months old (below 6 years), the measure being used as basis of malnutrition rate.
In 2004 South Cotabato had a prevalence rate of 18.04 percent which gradually decreased over the past five years.
This year, only 7,882 (8.16%) of the 81,591 children below 6 years old are malnourished. These consist of 6,466 underweight children and 1,416 severely underweight children.
The 6,466 underweight children are now being assisted by the provincial government’s supplemental feeding program in cooperation with its private sector partners.
As per directive of the governor, Uy and her team are preparing a supplemental feeding program to specifically address the nutritional needs of the 1,416 severely underweight children includi their families. The provincial government fully funds this program for the “poorest of the poor.”
Food packs containing rice, mungo, sugar, iodized salt, high-calcium whole milk, iron supplement for mothers, and multivitamins for the children, will be distributed to the beneficiary families each week. Mothers are also required to undergo nutrition education through the “Pabasa sa Nutrisyon” of the Infant Young Child Feeding (IYCF) program. (PIA 12)


==So Cotabato to give supplemental feeding to 1,416 poor households==
With Gov. Mendoza during the turn-over ceremony were 2nd District board members Cristobal Cadungon, Airene Claire Pagal, Onofre Respicio, and Noel Baynosa.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=62673
*Sunday, November 06, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


The lady governor promised more incentives to the municipality depending on the success of the summer kids peace camp.


The summer kids peace camp, is an annual program of Gov. Mendoza and intends to inculcate among Grade V pupils of the province leadership skills in the context of peaceful co-existence among the lumads, Muslims and Christians inhabitants of the province.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov 6 (PIA) -- The provincial government of South Cotabato is specifically targeting 1,416 "poorest of the poor" households in its program to address severe malnutrition.
School children are also taught important moral values such as respect for others’ cultures and beliefs and are honed to become the provincial government’s young ambassadors of peace to their respective communities.  
Provincial Nutrition officer Ma. Anna Uy told members of the press that these families were identified based on the number of preschool children found severely underweight in a survey conducted at the beginning of the school year.
"Once a child is severely underweight, most likely the entire family is experiencing malnutrition," Uy said.
Considering that these families "need immediate intervention," Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. immediately directed Uy and her team to determine the specific locations of these families and prepare a supplemental feeding program for them.
Unlike the other nutrition programs of the provincial LGU, such as the Kapitbisig Para sa Kabataan project, which is supported by non government and civic organizations, the supplemental feeding program for the poorest of the poor is solely funded by the local government.
Uy said the provincial government has allocated approximately P4 million for this project.
She added they have already prepared the food packages and will be distributed anytime now.
Each food pack contains rice, mongo, iodized salt, and high-calcium whole milk.
The contents are enough to supply a third of each household's weekly nutritional requirement, she explained.
"Each pack also contains iron supplementation for mothers and multi-vitamins for the children," she added.
To assure sustainability of this supplementation program, mothers of these households will be educated in nutrition through the Pabasa sa Nutrisyon under the Infant Youth Child Feeding (IYCF) program, which is also being intensified by the provincial government. (PIA 12)


==DOLE releases P243,000 for water hyacinth handicraft production==
Some 25,000 Grade V pupils are expected in participate in this year's summer kids camps in the 17 municipalities and lone city of North Cotabato.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=62615
*Saturday, November 05, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release


==40 Midsayap fisherfolk to receive tilapia fingerlings, fish pond==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611335824833
*Tuesday, May 1, 2012
:by  (DEDoguiles -PIA 12/Roderick Bautista-1st District NCot Congressional Office) 




KORONADAL CITY, Nov 5 (PIA) -- The regional office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE 12) has recently released P243,060 to an organization, organized specifically for the production of handicrafts made of water hyacinths.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 1 (PIA) -- Some 40 fisherfolk in confict-affected village in Midsayap, North Cotabato are set to benefit from tilapia fingerlings distribution and turn-over of nine units of fish ponds from the government.  
The check was handed to Pusaw Handicraft Association based on Cotabato City, whose members include participants trained by the Technical Education and Skills Authority – 12 (TESDA 12) and DOLE 12 as a contributing effort to solve massive floods caused by water hyacinths in Cotabato City, Maguindanao and nearby places.
DOLE 12 Regional Director Ma. Gloria A. Tango said the amount was intended for materials and equipment the association needs to start their business.
Thirty-five selected participants underwent skills training on June 30 to July 4 at the TESDA Cotabato City District Office regarding the methods of processing water hyacinths into environment-friendly products like bags, slippers, tissue holders, and other household and office items, among others.
An expert from TESDA NCR came to Cotabato to train the local participants.
Another expert from NCR came to Cotabato on October 10 to 15 to teach the participants, who have been formally organized by DOLE Cotabato City Field office Pusaw Handicraft Association, with additional skills on water hyacinth handicrafts.
Tango, after consultation with senior officers of the agency, committed to support the project after having determined its viability as an income-generating, employment-generating, and environment-friendly project for Cotabato City.
The water hyacinth handicraft project was identified as a core enterprise of the Community Enterprise Development Program (CEDP) for the area.
During the opening ceremony of the second training, Tango emphasized the importance of enhancing the skills of each member as tool for their development. She said the enrichment of the skills of the members of Pusaw Handicraft Association in making handicrafts from the water hyacinth is essential in their community development.
TESDA Provincial Dir. Leonora Guiloreza also pledged the support of her agency by providing the necessary skills and training to continuously improve the quality of the water hyacinth handicraft that the association will produce.
CEDP aims to enhance and transform existing livelihood projects in the barangays into community enterprises and or set up community enterprises to be managed by community groups.
The CEDP of Cotabato City is the fourth that has been launched in Region 12.
Launched earlier during the year were the CEDPs of Lambayong in Sultan Kudarat (Kakanin Products); Barangay Libas, Tantangan, South Cotabato (charcoal briquetting); and Barangay Bula, General Santos City (deep-sea fishing and mini-motor shop).(LCO/CDML/DOLE 12/DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


==South Cotabato to experience 11-hour power curtailment on Sunday==
Plan for the fingerlings dispersal and fish pond turn-over in the remote village of Olandang is being finalized by the office of North Cotabato 1st District Rep. Jesus Sacdalan and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and officials of the local government unit.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=62507
*Friday, November 04, 2011
:by    Dani Doguiles


Dominador Aspacio, congressional district office staff, said the fingerlings will be dispersed free to help residents begin a sustainable livelihood.


Aspacio also said fish ponds were built through Food for Work of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. These will be turned-over to the fisherfolk to provide them with facility where they can raise the dispersed tilapia.


KORONADAL CITY, Nov 4 (PIA) -- South Cotabato 1 Electric Cooperative, Inc. (SOCOTECO 1) today announce an 11-hour brownout on Sunday.
Earlier, BFAR personnel conducted a series of lectures on the cultural management of tilapia with the beneficiaries to prepare them for the implementation of the livelihood project.  
Santiago Tudio, SOCOTECO 1 general manager, said, “the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has scheduled a power shutdown on November 6 from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for the Tacurong-Koronadal-Surallah 69 KV transmission line.”
SOCOTECO 1 covers the city of Koronadal and the municipalities of Banga, Norala, Surallah, Sto. Niño, Lake Sebu, T’boli, Tantangan, in South Cotabato and Lutayan in Sultan Kudarat province.
“This is to facilitate the Mindanao Project Division’s request for installation of scaffoldings in preparation for the last stringing portion and dismantling of the existing 138 KV DC Transmission Line Project on November 30. 2011,” Tudio explained.
While the NGCP personnel will conduct their activity, the technical crew of SOCOTECO 1 will also implement preventive and maintenance activities. (PIA 12)


Barangay Olandang is situated along Rio Grande de Mindanao and Liguasan Marsh, which make the village an ideal location for the tilapia raising.


==Adults, OSYs in Upi, Maguindanao finish literacy and numeracy course==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611335764418
*Monday, April 30, 2012
:by  (DEDoguiles-PIA 12, with report from Hannadi Guiamad-Upi LGU)




KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 30 (PIA) -- Hundreds of adults and out-of-school youth in Upi town, Maguindanao have completed a three-month literacy and numeracy course, recently.


On Saturday, at least 400 adults and out-of school youth learners received their certificates of completion from the Literacy for Peace and Development (LIPAD) Project, where they learned how to write, read and do simple computations. The ceremony was held at the Upi municipal gymnasium on Saturday.


Learners were from barangays Kibleg, Ganasi, Nangi at Borongotan.


In her message, LIPAD Project director Prof. Pilar A. Bautista said they aim to provide underprivileged individuals, especially adults and out-of school youth, the opportunity to learn basic writing, reading and counting.


'''Bold text'''==Spoiled fish downs 183 T'bolis==
This is necessary for them, she said, to learn these very important skills, which they can use in daily affairs and in simple transactions such as those involved in doing business with others.
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2011/11/03/spoiled-fish-downs-183-tbolis-188432
*Thursday, November 3, 2011
:by  Edgardo Fuerzas


LIPAD is a project of the Magbassa Kita Foundation Inc., a non-profit, non-government organization dedicated to the promotion of literacy, poverty alleviation, as well as peace and development founded by former Senator Santanina Rasul in the 1960s.


The project is being funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).


T'BOLI, South Cotabato -- A total of 183 lumads were brought to the hospital for food poisoning after eating trays of fish on Monday night.
It aims to raise the basic and functional literacy level among adults and out-of-school youth in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).  


South Cotabato health officer Dr. Rogelio Aturdido Jr. said members of the Ubo and T'boli offered 16 trays of fish as part of their Tribal Day celebration in barangay Lamfugon, T'boli.
Besides Upi, LIPAD project is also being implemented in the towns of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Guindulungan, and Talayan for Maguindanao province area.  


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Some of the graduates were emotional when they received their certificates of completion because they did not expect to have been given the chance to learn to read, write, and do simple computations despite their age.  


The lumads used the fish as display as most of them were already spoiled. However, when the group who offered the food left, some started to cook it and eat it for dinner.
Barangay Borongotan chairperson Irene Galanto, in her message, thanked the learning facilitators for their diligence in helping the participants learn these basic and important skills and for being patient in going to remote areas to reach the under served residents.  


The victims started vomiting, felt stomach pain and fainted around 7 p.m. Monday. They were brought to the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital.
Upi Mayor Ramon Piang Sr. and some members of the Sangguniang Bayan attended the completion ceremony.  


Aturdido said the fish was not preserved properly and that caused the food poisoning.
The affair was highlighted by presentations of learners, who showed their talents in cultural singing and dancing.  
Doctors at the South Cotabato Integrated Provincial Health Office are still investigating the incident.


==DILG-So Cotabato suggests cleaning list of beneficiaries for second Pantawid Pasada==
Aside from the certificate of completion, those who have completed the course, also received reading materials featuring indigenous stories, which they can use to hone what they learned.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=61874
*Monday, October 31, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


Awards like Best in Reading, Best in Writing, and Best in Numeracy were also given to graduates who excelled.




KORONADAL CITY, Oct 31 (PIA) -- The provincial office of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) here has brought to the attention of the department's central office some measures that could improve the implementation of the second round of government' fuel subsidy program.
This after approximately half of the P1.2 million subsidy under the Public Transport Assistance Program (PTAP) or Pantawid Pasada in South Cotabato may be reverted to the national treasury because these have not been claimed.
Josephine Leysa, DILG South Cotabato provincial director, said they have already informed national officials of their suggestion, which include cleansing of the list of beneficiaries, authorizing drivers to claim the assistance, and increasing the amount of fuel subsidy.
"(During the first round of PTAP) we were given a deadline to submit the list of franchisees, so we had to submit what is available in the local government units," she said, "only to find out that the lists have not been cleansed."
"Some franchise owners (in the list) have not renewed their franchises while some have transferred to other places."
Leysa believes they will also achieve better turn out in the disbursement of the fuel subsidy if drivers are authorized to claim the assistance instead of the franchise owners.
"We cannot expect all of the franchise owners, some of whom are well-to-do, to queue for their P150 fuel subsidy," she said.
Increasing the amount of fuel subsidy is also most welcome among drivers, she said.
DILG South Cotabato have already directed local government units to liquidate their PTAP allocations.
Tantangan and Polomolok LGUs were the first to report their disbursements.
Tantangan has disbursed 100 percent of its allocation but Polomolok returned around P200,000 that comprised about 65 percent of their PTAP fund.
Koronadal City have already reported that about half of their more than 4,000 subsidy slots have not been claimed and will be refunded to the national treasury.
The same is expected from the other LGUs, Leysa said. (PIA 12)


==RSCC 12 joins national greening program==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=61794
*Sunday, October 30, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release






KORONADAL CITY, Oct 30 (PIA) –- Representatives of member-agencies of the Regional Statistical Coordination Committee (RSCC) 12 planted hard-wood trees in Sto. Niño, Koronadal City last week as part of the celebration of the 22nd National Statistics Month.
The activity was conducted in support to the National Greening Program (NGP) of the government which aims to plant some 1.5 billion trees in around 1.5 million hectares of public lands in six years, from 2011 to 2016.
RSCC 12 and National Economic and Development Authority 12 (NEDA 12) Director Teresita Socorro Ramos led participants in planting seedlings of Nabong tree in Purok Upper Valley of the said barangay.
Koronadal City’s Environment and Natural Resources led by CENRO Augustus Bretaña provided the seedlings and identified the tree-planting area while the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) provided a shuttle to ferry participants to and from the planting site.
Food and drinks for the participants were provided by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The RSCC 12 is composed of representatives from the regional offices of NEDA, National Statistics Office, National Statistics Coordinating Board, Department of Budget and Management , Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Trade and Industry.
Department of Agriculture, Department of Labor and Employment, DENR, Department of Education, Department of Health, Department of Tourism, Department Science and Technology, Commission on Higher Education, Bureau of Agricultural Statictics.
Provincial and City Planning and Development Offices and private sector representatives, Notre Dame University-Research Center (NDU-RC) and Women in Enterprise Development (WED).
RSCC plans to make the tree-planting activity as a regular project as part of the annual celebration of the National Statistics Month in the region. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/RSCC 12)


==Kins nabbed for illegal possession of drugs and firearms in Sto Nino, South Cotabato==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=61715
*Saturday, October 29, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release






KORONADAL CITY, October 29 (PIA) -- A joint team of the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation apprehended three (3) male family members for possession of illegal drugs and home made firearms in a barangay at Sto Nino, South Cotabato on October 27.
On the strength of a search warrant issued by Municipal Circuit Trial Judge Marlo Brasales of the Municipal Circuit Trial Court of Norala-Tboli and Sto Nino, in Norala, South Cotabato, the joint PNP-NBI team arrested Pudi Ambalgan, 47 years old and former barangay captain of Upper Sepaka, Surralah, South Cotabato; Ato Ambalgan, 20 year-old son of Pudi.
Ambalgan and Tating Sandigan, 29 years and son in law of Pudi.
Poice senior inspector Dennis Madriaga, chief of police of the Sto. Nino Police Station said the arrest came after a one month surveillance of the suspects who have been complained of causing indiscriminate firing and public disturbances by the residents of Purok Lovers, Barangay Ambalgan, Sto Nino, South Cotabato.
Madriaga reported that their team confiscated 11 sachets of shabu weighing more or less 10 grams and assorted home made firearms from the suspects who did not resist arrest.
The Sto Nino chief of police disclosed that the seized firearms comprised of one (1) unit home made caliber 45 pistol, two (2) units home made single shot with caliber M16 ammunition, one (1) unit home made Ingram with 9 MM ammunition and three (3) units home made 12 gauge rifle with three (3) magazines.
The three (3), according to Madriaga, were brought to Koronadal City to face inquest proceedings. (OTSUDARIA/PIA 12).


==Dengue cases in region 12 decline==
==SPES-TWSP convergence program to cover 21 LGUs in Region 12==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=61561
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611335511112
*Friday, October 28, 2011
*Sunday, April 29, 2012
:by PIA Press Release
:by Danilo E. Doguiles




KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 29 (PIA) -- A total of 21 municipalities in three provinces of Soccsksargen region will benefit from the initial implementation of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Convergence Program on poverty alleviation.


KORONADAL CITY, October 28 (PIA) -- Dengue incidents in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region (Region 12) considerably decreased this year compared to that of last year.
The program brings together DOLE’s Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) to provide training and employment opportunities to the marginalized sector of the society, especially the out-of-school youth (OSY).  
In an interview in the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) led Kalinga Kutawato radio program aired over DXMS-Cotabato City, DXND-Kidapawan City and.DXOM-Koronadal City, DOH 12 regional entomologist-designate Royfrextopher Boholst said there are only 2077 dengue cases in region 12 from January 1 to September 24, 2011 compared to last year's 11,190 dengue cases in the same period. Sixteen cases of deaths were reported, he added
Boholst further said that in 2010, North Cotabato had the highest number of dengue cases - 5038; second, South Cotabato - 2435; third, General Santos City -1,783; fourth, Sarngani - 950; fifth, Sultan Kudarat - 612 and sixth - Cotabato City - 372.
In 2011, according to Boholst, the downtrend of dengue incidents is as follows: North Cotabato - 575; South Cotabato - 521; General Santos City - 378; Sultan Kudarat - 212; Sarangani - 204 and Cotabato City - 187.
The regional entomologist - designate attributed the downtrend of dengue cases to the interventions of the Department of Health, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Education, local government units and the cooperation of other sectors.
He said DOH 12 director Abdullah Dumama ordered the intensification of the information campaign on dengue prevention and control and pushed for the mobilization of residents in affected barangays in the clean-up drive and improved environmental sanitation.
Boholst also noted the effective implementation of Ovi/Larvi (OL) trap system in the households of affected barangays. (OTSUDARIA/PIA 12)


==Soccsksargen Region sets first coffee congress==
Based on a list provided by the office of DOLE 12 Regional Director Chona Mantilla last Friday, the SPES-TWSP Convergence Program will cover 11 municipalities in North Cotabato, eight in Sultan Kudarat, and two in Sarangani.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=61348
*Thursday, October 27, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release


In North Cotabato, beneficiary OSYs should come from Aleosan, Midsayap, Tulunan, Alamada, Arakan, Banisilan, Kabacan, Libungan, Magpet, Matalam, and President Roxas.


Interested and qualified OSYs in Kalamansig, Bagumbayan, Colombio, Esperanza, Isulan, Lambayong, Lebak, and Senator Ninoy Aquino municipalities of Sultan Kudarat may also avail of the training and employment program.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 27 (PIA) -- Poised to claim the tag “Coffee Capital of the Philippines,” Sultan Kudarat province is staging the 1st Region 12 Coffee Congress on November 17-19, 2011 at the Provincial Capitol in Isulan.
On May 1, the program will be launched in General Santos City for the municipalities of Malungon and Alabel in Saragani Province where the first 42 scholarship grantees come from.  
Sultan Kudarat is currently the country’s biggest producer of all varieties of coffee recorded by the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics at 23% of the national total.
In terms of Coffee Arabica, Sultan Kudarat remains the number one producer contributing 52% to the national total, trailed way behind by Davao del Sur with 7%, Iloilo and Sulu with 5% each and South Cotabato with 4%.
Sultan Kudarat is also the number one producer of Coffee Robusta with about 18% of the Philippines’ total attributed to the province. Compostela Valley follows closely with 15%, Cavite with 10%, Bukidnon with 7% and Kalinga with 5%.
For Coffee Excelsa, top five are Sulu (20%), Davao del Sur (12%), North Cotabato (8%), Davao City (7%) and Compostela Valley (5%).
While such is the situation, the yield is not as high as that of Cavite. Average yield in a hectare of coffee plantation in Sultan Kudarat is only 400 kg while that in Cavite was registered at an average of one ton per hectare.
This is one major reason for the conduct of the Congress, organizer said, citing the need to rejuvenate or rehabilitate the existing coffee farms.
The congress shall tackle ways to improve agricultural and cultural practices, coffee quality profile, coffee for climate change, market requirements, coffee processing, and coffee shop business.
There shall also be side events like Agri, Trade & Techno Fair on Coffee, Barista Exhibition, Market Matching with Nestle and Manila-based coffee shops, Investment Matching, Coffee Value Chain Tour and Coffee Cupping.
Department of Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala is expected to grace the Opening Program, as the agency has now included coffee as a priority high value crop.
The local office of the Department of Trade & Industry has set as sales target of P2.0 M for the Market Matching; P5.0 M for new investments and improvement of productivity by 80% in the coming three (3) years.
The country is both an exporter and importer of coffee. In 2009, the Philippines exported coffee to Canada, Japan, South Korea and the USA. However it is also importing more coffee along with EU, USA, Japan, Canada and Switzerland.
Currently the country supplies only 30,000 metric tons or less than half of the 65,000 metric tons domestic demand.
The domestic demand for coffee is currently pegged at 65,000 MT while country only supplies 30,000 MT posting a deficit of 35,000 MT. The shortfall approximately amounting to Php0.3.6 Billion will be imported from other coffee producing countries.
A Roadmap to address the concerns of the coffee stakeholders have also been drafted by the DA, DTI, DOST, TESDA, LGUs and the coffee players themselves to ensure that they are on the right track.
Provincial and Municipal Coffee Industry Development Councils have also been organized in the coffee growing municipalities to monitor the development of the industry.
Inquiries or reservation to the 1st Region 12 Coffee Congress can be directed to the Secretariat: DTI – Sultan Kudarat at telephone number (064) 200-3166; or Nelly Nita N. Dillera, Provincial Director DTI – Sultan Kudarat (nelly.dillera@dti12.org; 0920-932-7074). (DTI-SK/PIA12-aca)


==South Cotabato creates desk for Muslim affairs==
Director Mantilla said more municipalities may be included in the coming months.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=60926
*Tuesday, October 25, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


“We have requested for the inclusion of the municipalities of Lake Sebu, T’boli and Sto. Niño in South Cotabato,” Director Mantilla said, adding that they are now awaiting approval of this by Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz.


Under the program, beneficiary OSYs who “may also be an occupationally disabled worker, a person with disability, a displaced worker, or a victim of trafficking, illegal recruitment or child labor,” will undergo mandated 20 to 52 days of technical vocational training in TESDA-identified institutions.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 25 (PIA) -- South Cotabato’s provincial government will soon have a desk where Muslim residents in the province can refer their concerns.
As in the original SPES program, DOLE will pay each beneficiary 40 percent of the prevailing minimum wage in the region for every day of training.  
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan yesterday approved a resolution requesting Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. to create a Muslim Affairs Desk at the Provincial Social Welfare Office (PSWDO).
Board Member Jose Madanguit, chairman of the committee on human rights, Muslim affairs and cultural communities said that they pushed for the creation of Muslim affairs desk to hasten the provincial government’s response to concerns and issues affecting the Muslim communities in the province.
“The desk is equivalent to our Provincial Tribal Council,” Madanguit said. “It is about time that we also provide our Muslim brothers a representation in the provincial government where they can present their concerns and related purposes.”
“With a desk specifically looking into the affairs concerning the Muslim communities, the provincial government will be able to immediately address problems affecting them.”
The resolution was of a unanimous sponsorship.
Madanguit said the resolution was borne out of several meetings with Muslim leaders in the 10 municipalities and lone city.
The idea for the creation of a Muslim affairs desk in the provincial government was first suggested by Vice Governor Elmo Tolosa, he added. (PIA 12)


==South Cotabato shuts down 300 mine tunnels in T’boli town==
The amount, according to the program guidelines, may be used as a training allowance or as capital to purchase the OSY’s starter kit.
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=381328
*October 24, 2011, 2:47 pm
:by  (PNA)
LAP/AVE/RSS


More than 400 scholarship slots may be opened in Soccsksargen Region this year for OSYs interested in techvoc trainings that will be identified by TESDA 12. The program is open to OSY’s between 15 to 25 years old, whose family income (including his, if any) does not exceed the latest annual regional poverty threshold level for a family of six, as determined by the National Economic Development Authority.


Applicants should have reached high school level to be able to participate in the program.


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Oct. 24 (PNA) - The provincial government of South Cotabato has ordered the closure of some 300 mine tunnels at a gold rush village in T’boli town as it intensified its crackdown against illegal small-scale mining operations in the province.
Interested individuals need to submit to the nearest DOLE or TESDA office the needed documents. For more information, you may refer to the nearest DOLE Field Office or Public Employment Service Office or provincial/district office of TESDA. (DED-PIA 12)


Engr. Siegfred Flaviano, acting chief of the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO), said Monday the mine tunnels in Barangay Kematu in T’boli would be padlocked on Wednesday based on the stoppage and closure order issued by the local government.
==Cotelco GM says AboitizPower, TMI did not refuse delivery of power to coop==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611335511112
*Saturday, April 28, 2012
:by  (DED-PIA 12)


“We have given the operators five days to bring out all their ore stocks from the tunnels,” he said.


Flaviano said the closure notice was sent last Friday to the T’boli Minahang Bayan Multi-Purpose Cooperative (TMBMPC), whose members have been mining a 21-hectare gold rich area in Barangay Kematu since the early 1980s.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 28 (PIA) -- AboitizPower and Therma Marine Inc. (TMI) did not refuse to deliver power to Cotabato Electric Cooperative (Cotelco) nor did they impose P16.11 per kwh rate on the cooperative, Cotelco General Manager Godofredo Homez said.  


The padlocking of the hundreds of tunnels in the village has already been coordinated with the police and the military for the security of the implementing team, he added.
Last Wednesday, several radio stations and newspapers reported that negotiations between Cotelco and TMI for a 8-MW supply of electricity have stalled because the latter would charge Cotelco P16.11/kwh of power supplied, as well as require them a P4-million security bond and P14-million advanced payment.  


He did not say how many operators owned the gold tunnels as well as the number of affected workers.
“In summary, we want to clarify that AboitizPower and TMI did not refuse to deliver power to Cotelco,” Homez said in a letter sent to the Department of Energy and PIA-12.  


Flaviano earlier said South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. issued an order stopping the small-scale gold mining operations in Barangay Kematu due to the resurgence of land-related dispute between the Maguan clan and the Minahang Bayan cooperative members involving the 21 hectares.
“AboitizPower and TMI did not impose P16.11 per kwh rate on Cotelco,” he added.  


The Maguan clan insisted that the Minahang Bayan members should get their approval or the Free Prior and Informed Consent because the area is under their ancestral land, he added.
Homez also pointed out that the prepaid agreement was not imposed on the electric cooperative, adding that the rate is more or less P9.00 per kwh, which is the same rate charged to all electric cooperatives under contract with all TMI.  


During the previous administration of then governor and now Second District Rep. Daisy Avance-Fuentes, the provincial government also closed the small-scale mining in Barangay Kematu because of the land dispute.
“It was an agreement discussed between two parties in consideration of the immediate need for power by Cotelco and the need of TMI to be protected for the costs they will incur in delivering power, especially fuel costs,” he explained.  


Flaviano said the cooperative members have been given an 18-month extension to operate, after they appealed for consideration, prior to the serving of the closure order last Friday.
Homez confirmed that Cotelco wrote to AboitizPower last April 12 to ask for a 8-MW supply from TMI in anticipation of the huge deficit in power supply during the month-long rehabilitation of Pulangi IV hydropower plant.  


Pingoy also issued the stoppage order after the PEMO informed him that most of the small-scale miners have allegedly failed to comply with the regulatory guidelines on tunnel mining.
Aboitiz power, he said, expressed availability of 8 MW.  


During a recent meeting with the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board, the governor learned that 70 percent of the small-scale operations were illegal, the provincial information office reported earlier.
“But following rules of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), our transaction must be governed by at least a provisional authority (PA) from the ERC,” he said. PAs, he explained, are usually issued 30 days of publication of the draft power supply agreement.  


The 21 hectares are within the tenement of Tribal Mining Corp’s 85-hectare under Mineral Production Sharing Agreement 090-97-XI granted in 1997. The agreement has a lifespan of 25 years.
Homez explained that since they could not wait for a provisional agreement, they wrote to ERC asking that they be allowed to receive delivery of power from TMI without the required authority.  


Tribal Mining has partnered with Canadian firm Cadan Resources Corp. for the commercial development of it’s T’boli gold-silver project.
On April 19, he said, ERC approved Cotelco’s request to get power from TMI but not less than the prevailing NPC-Time of Use Rate or P.90 per kwh.  


The Court of Appeals earlier ruled that the conflict over rights between the mining firm and the small-scale miners involving the disputed area shall be resolved by a Regional Panel of Arbitrators, which is a quasi-judicial body annexed to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Regarding the P4-M security bond, Homez pointed out that this is a standard in all financial contracts. About the advanced payment, he explained that “without a provisional agreement, Cotelco cannot legally impose the new rates to its consumers; following this is the risk that TMI will not be paid for its fuel and overhead costs. Thus a proposal for a prepaid system was discussed.”


Cotelco’s service area at regularly experiences up to 8 hours of rotational brownout after the Pulangi IV plant was closed for maintenance works last week.


Before Pulangi IV was closed, Cotelco imposed 3 to 5 hours of rotational brownout. Cotelco, as well as the city government of Kidapawan and the provincial government of Cotabato, have been asking for the retention of 25 percent of the power generated by the Mt. Apo Geothermal Power Plant owned by the Energy Development Corporation.


The present 8-hour-per-day power outages in North Cotabato could persist until May 17, the date set for the completion of the Pulangi IV rehab, if Cotelco cannot buy supply from TMI.


==Opportunities await OSYs in DOLE-TESDA convergence program==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611335504092
*Friday, April 27, 2012
:by  (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)




KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 27 (PIA) -- More help will soon be made available to out-of-school youths in Soccksargen Region as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) joined together two of their flagship programs.


DOLE 12 Regional Director Chona Mantilla yesterday announced they will launch on Labor Day (May 1) in General Santos City the DOLE-TESDA Convergence Program on Poverty Alleviation.


“The program joins together the Special Program for the Employment of Students of DOLE and the Training for Work Scholarship Program of TESDA,” Mantilla explained. “This will be called SPES-TWSP Convergence Program.”


Under the program, qualified OSYs undergo the SPES program but instead of employing in an establishment for a specified duration should instead undergo technical-vocational training.


Forty-two OSYs from Malungon and Alabel towns in Sarangani province are scheduled to receive scholarship grants during the ceremonial launching at the KCC Convention Hall in Gensan.


At least 400 SPES-TWSP scholars are expected to benefit from the program this year.


==LGUs implement improved permits, licensing system==
According to the DOLE-TESDA Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1 series of 2012 dated March 23, 2012, “the implementation of the SPES-TWSP convergence program will be nationwide, prioritizing the poorest areas in the 16 regions.”
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=60491
*Saturday, October 22, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


In region 12, it will be implemented in 21 poor municipalities in the provinces of Sarangani, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat.


Mantilla said, they are still requesting for the inclusion of at least three municipalities in South Cotabato, which was not included in the initial list.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 22 (PIA) -- Interior and local government officials in South Cotabato hope time spent on getting permits and licenses will soon be shorter with their implementation of an improved business system.
For an OSY to qualify, he or she should be 15 to 25 years old and whose parents’ combined income does not exceed the latest annual regional poverty threshold level for a family of six.  
DILG Provincial Director Josephine Leysa, said 10 municipalities and the lone city of Koronadal have already been oriented on the computer-based DILG program on permits and licensing system. Software has also been installed in some LGUs.
T'boli and Surallah towns were the last LGUs visited by DILG on Thursday and Friday for the same purpose.
According to her, the program streamlines the processing of permits and licenses."
From ten steps with 12 signatures we intend to standardize the process into 5-5-5: five steps, five signatures, five days in a unified form," she added.
Leysa said they are encouraging LGUs to upgrade to best practice of three steps, three signatures, in one day processing.
"Eventually, maybe we can achieve the efficiency of Makati and Marikina which follows a two-step process of file and pay,” she said.
DILG hopes to complete all installations will be completed within October.
"We hope to dry-run the system in January, Leysa said.
DILG is working with the Department of Trade and Industry for this project. (PIA 12)


==Conflicting tenurial documents hamper implementation of environmental projects==
“An OSY may also be an occupationally disabled worker, a person with disability, a displaced worker, or a victim of trafficking, illegal recruitment of child labor,” the circular noted.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=60429
*Friday, October 21, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


Based on the existing SPES guidelines, the training program in which the beneficiary can enroll should be for a minimum of 20 days (160 hours) to a maximum of 52 days only.


DOLE will pay for 40 percent of the applicable minimum wage after completion of the training program for the training allowance or starter kit of the OSYs.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 21 (PIA) -- Environment officials in South Cotabato said their implementation of programs and projects in protected areas are being hampered because of conflicting tenurial instruments issued by agencies of the government.
The agency will also provide guidance and necessary technical support to capacitate the OSYs to engage in self-employment after the training.  
Engr. Seigfred Flaviano, officer-in-charge South Cotabato Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO) said, they are unable to promote co-management programs such as community-based forest management (CBFM) in declared protected areas because of conflicting claims by private individuals and indigenous peoples.
He said some portions of upland areas declared as protected by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) have also been issued certificate of land ownership award (CLOA) by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) while at the same time being claimed by indigenous peoples and have been issued certificates of ancestral domain title (CADT) by the Commission on Indigenous Peoples.
Flaviano cited some upland areas in T’boli town as having such problems.
“This is quite common in the upland areas of South Cotabato and in other areas of the country,” he said.
The protected areas in T’boli are part of the 102,350-hectare Allah Valley Protected Landscape covered by the National Integrated Protected Area System as provided for by Republic Act 7586.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Flaviano said they have already recommended to South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. for the creation of technical working group (TWG) composed of the agencies involved in the issuance of titles.
He said the TWG should identify the areas with overlapping tenurial documents, look into the issue and resolve how to harmonize the conflicting documents.
Flaviano said Gov. Pingoy has already endorsed the creation of a TWG. He expects the governor will soon issue on executive order regarding this matter. (PIA 12)


==BFAR 12 celebrates fish conservation week==
TESDA handles the selection of the OSYs who will undergo the training program and become beneficiaries as well as identification of technical education and skills development institutions where the scholars will enrol.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=60201
*Thursday, October 20, 2011
:by  Jane Christine Balayo


Interested OSYs may file application and required documents at the Public Employment Service Office or TESDA Provincial/District Office nearest them.


Required documents include duly accomplished SPES Application Form and TESDA Trainee Profile Form; copy of birth certificate or any document that shows his or her date of birth, latest report card (Form 138), income tax return of parents or certification issued by BIR or barangay chairperson indicating that they are exempted from paying taxes, and certificate of good moral character from authorized barangay official.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 20 (PIA) – The regional office of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 12 (BFAR 12) on Monday launched the 48th Fish Conservation Week at the conference hall of the regional office in General Santos City.
==8 DAR scholars in So. Cotabato finish in Agri-tech course==
At the launching, BFAR 12 Assistant Regional Director Ambutong K. Pautong announced that the Bureau is now on its way to implement several conservation measures such as the planting of 300,000 mangrove propagules in Region 12 within a year.
*Source: http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/46744-South-Cotabato-cops-note-improved-operations.html
He said this is in support to the efforts towards the recovery of vulnerable habitats and ecosystems in coastal areas.
*Thursday, April 26, 2012
The weeklong event, which runs from October 16-22, 2011, highlights series of activities that are designed to promote coastal and fishery resource enhancement initiatives.
:by (DEDoguiles-PIA 12/MTVQuimsing/DAR-SoCot)  
Activities lined up include technology and livelihood symposium, fishery law enforcement, and recognition of the contributions of some individuals for the development of the fishery sector.
Information dissemination geared towards eliciting stakeholders’ participation to campaign for the conservation and development of fisheries and aquatic resources is also on-going.
The launching was participated by students and faculty member of the state-owned Mindanao State University (MSU)-General Santos campus.
Mary Lyn Abiera, vice-chancellor for academic affairs of MSU-GSC, congratulated BFAR 12 for its continuous efforts to push for people’s awareness in fishery and aquatic resource conservation and development.
She assured BFAR 12 that MSU, being one of the schools in the region that offers fishery-related courses, will always partner with BFAR in all activities that are contributory to the development of the fisheries sector..
Juliet Moquia, a representative from the local government of General Santos City, challenged the participants to help preserve aquatic ecosystems to ensure that these resources will still be available for future generations.
She said that fishes play a very vital role and must be conserved especially that these are safe source of protein particularly for the ordinary people.
This year’s Fish Conservation Week revolves around the theme “Karagatan pagyamanin, isda paramihin, buong mundo pasiglahin.”
This annual celebration started in 1963 by the virtue of the Presidential Proclamation No. 176 by the late President Diosdado Macapagal assigning third week of October as Fish Conservation Week to accentuate the importance of preserving and developing the fishery resources. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/BFAR 12)


==South Cotabato eyes special body to resolve ‘overlapping’ land tenurial issuances==
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=380298
*October 19, 2011, 5:50 pm
:by  (PNA)
DCT/FFC/AVE


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 26 (PIA) -- Eight scholars of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in South Cotabato under the Programang Agraryo Iskolar yesterday graduated their course at the Surallah National Agricultural School (SUNAS), in nearby Surallah town.


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Oct. 19 (PNA) – Environment officials in South Cotabato are pushing for the creation of a special body that will spearhead a study and evaluation of conflicting land tenurial instruments in the province that were earlier issued by various national government agencies.
Ma. Theresa Quimsing, information officer of DAR-South Cotabato said, the scholars completed all requirements for a Diploma in Agricultural Technology.  


Engr. Siegfred Flaviano, acting South Cotabato Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO) chief, said Wednesday they recommended to South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. the immediate establishment of a technical working group (TWG) that will harmonize and resolve the “overlapping” tenurial instruments, especially those issued on declared protected areas.
The new graduate are Josephine Areza, Mery Chris De Joseph, Ernest John Eucare, Ramilyn Lasig, Jayren Mandeoya, Ryan Plenciano, Lovelyn Joy Retuyan, and Rosa Santerva.  


He specifically cited the case of a portion of the protected areas in T’boli town that were earlier issued with certificates of ancestral domain title or CADT by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and certificates of land ownership award (CLOA) by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
For two years they received financial support for tuition fees, books, and personal allowances from DAR.  


Portions of T’boli town’s upland areas are within the Allah Valley Protected Landscape, which covers a total of 102,350 hectares in four municipalities in South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces.
The “Programang Agraryo Iskolar” is part of the support services given to the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).  


The area is currently part of the National Integrated Protected Area System as provided for by Republic Act 7586.
Under the program children of ARBs are given the opportunity to finish a college degree related to agriculture.  


“This problem is quite common here in the province, especially in remote upland areas, and it has been affecting the implementation of some of our environment-related programs and projects,” Flaviano said in a media forum in Koronadal City.
The knowledge and skills they have acquired during their studies should help them become agents in developing their awarded lands and spur progress in their community in general, Quimsing added.


Based on a proposal he earlier submitted to Gov. Pingoy, Flaviano said the TWG will be composed of officials from the provincial government and agencies involved with the issuance of the conflicting tenurial instruments.
==South Cotabato cops note improved operations==
*Source: http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/46744-South-Cotabato-cops-note-improved-operations.html
*Wednesday, April 25. 2012
:by .(PNA)
LAP/AVE/AC


He said these agencies include the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, DAR and the NCIP.


“(Gov. Pingoy) already endorsed the creation of the TWG and an executive order will be issued soon regarding the matter,” he said.
GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Operations of police units in South Cotabato province significantly improved during the first three months of the year as they cleared over 73 percent of the crime incidents that occurred in the area.
Senior Supt. Randolph Delfin, South Cotabato police director, said they achieved a crime clearance efficiency rating of 73.33 during the first quarter, which increased by 20 percent from last year’s records.
Crime clearance efficiency refers to the percentage of cleared cases out of the total number of crime incidents handled by law enforcement agencies for a given period of time.
In terms of crime solution efficiency, he said they slightly improved their rating from 25 percent last year to 27.33 percent this year.
“Out of the 793 crime incidents that we handled, 494 were so far cleared and 218 have been solved,” Delfin said.
The police official said among their major accomplishment for the period was the recovery of 15 of the 23 motorcycles that were stolen within the province’s 10 towns and lone city.
He said they filed six cases on Monday against several identified carnapping or motorcycle theft suspects.
Delfin maintained that the province has remained generally peaceful and orderly as shown by the area’s crime statistics.
He said the average crime rate in the area during the first quarter of the year has gone down to 31.9 percent from the 35.7 percent in the same period last year.
In terms of illegal drugs, Delfin said they have so far arrested 33 suspects and launched 18 major operations in the area.
He said these operations have led to the recovery of some P5M worth of illegal drugs, specifically mehtamphetamine hydrochloride or "shabu" and marijuana.
The police official said they were able to arrest 75 persons with pending arrests warrants, including 18 who were facing illegal gambling charges.
Delfin added that they apprehended 12 suspects and recovered 18 high-powered arms in separate operations in Tantangan and Banga towns.


Flaviano said they pushed for the resolution of the conflicting issuances to allow the provincial government pursue with the implementation of its priority programs, especially those involving the management of the lands and natural resources within the affected areas.
==LGU, Army to gather youth in leadership summit==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611335246693
*Tuesday 24th of April 2012
:by  Danilo E. Doguiles


He was referring to the ongoing co-management programs for forestlands and watershed areas within the Allah Valley Protected Landscape that were being implemented by the Allah Valley Landscape Development Alliance (AVLADA)


AVLADA is an environment body jointly established by the local governments of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat that oversees the rehabilitation of the critical Allah River System and its environs.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 24 (PIA) -- The Philippine Army and the local government are organizing a four-day leadership summit on May 13 where more than 200 young people from Tampakan town are expected to attend.  


Among its ongoing programs is the rehabilitation of Allah river’s watershed and headwaters that are situated in the mountains T’boli town.
Gricelda Pacano, social welfare and development officer of Tampakan said the local government and the 27th Infantry Battalion are collaborating to hold the Youth Leadership Summit (YSL) 2012 to increase awareness among young residents of their responsibilities and help achieve lasting peace in their respective communities.  


==LGU gathers 4Ps parent-leaders to discuss issues on implementation==
Pacano said, the activity will be held at the Rock Ridge Resort in Barangay Lambayong, Tampakan and will be attended by young people from the municipality’s 14 barangays.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=59748
*Tuesday, October 18, 2011
:by Dani Doguiles


She said, the summit specifically aims to develop leadership potential of the young people, increase their knowledge of peace and development, educate them on the effects of illegal drug use, and improve their understanding of patriotism and cooperation with their communities.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 18 (PIA) -- At least 88 parent-leaders from 12 LGU- beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program gathered in Kidapawan City last week for a forum regarding the implementation of the government’s primary poverty alleviation program.
Activities shall include lectures and workshops on interpersonal communication, disaster risk reduction and management, dangerous drugs awareness, gender and cultural sensitivity, values formation, social responsibility, environmental awareness, threats to national security, knowing the Armed Forces of the Philippines and government plans for the youth sector.  
The forum - assembly organized by the provincial government of North Cotabato aimed to identify gaps, issues and concerns confronting the implementation of the anti-poverty program, particularly the conditional cash transfer.
Parent-leaders were also oriented on the programs systems including Compliance and Verification System (CVS), Grievance Redress System (GRS), Supply Side Assessment (SSA), and Beneficiary Update System (BUS). They also received lectures on leadership and teamwork.
“The Provincial Government is strongly pushing for efficient and effective implementation of the program since this is the biggest and single instrument of the government to improve the human capital,” said Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza.
“Let’s not put to waste government’s money. We should see to it that the program serves its purpose,” she told the participants.
The governor was encouraged by the observation that those who were chosen as household heads or parent-leaders are mother-beneficiaries.
This she said is an indication of gender equality and empowerment, which proves that mothers in the province are capable of leading groups.
North Cotabato has 41,320 CCT household-beneficiaries clustered into 1,489 parent groups.
As partners of the program implementation, parent-leaders of the clusters lead their members in meetings, develop rapport, monitor attendance of household grantees in the community assemblies and family development education sessions, visit households grantees who have missed community assemblies and disseminate information to household beneficiaries.
During the forum considerable time was spent in the discussion of the Beneficiary Update System (BUS).
BUS’s primary purpose is the gather, validate, report and record the changes that have occurred on the status or condition of any member of the beneficiary household while under the program.
This is one of the tools that the government, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), uses to continue, suspend, or terminate cash grants to specific beneficiaries.
An information sheet on the program says: “The continuity of the cash grant is dependent on two dimensions as follows: how the beneficiaries abide by the conditionalities as would be monitored through the Compliance and Verification System (CVS); and the change (s) on the status or condition of each beneficiary household which would be reflected in the Update Report. (PIA 12)


==RDC XII launches Regional Development Plan 2011-2016==
Other activities include film viewing, contests on logo and poster-making, extemporaneous speech, mural painting, and Search for Mr. and Ms. YLS 2012.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=59558
*Monday, October 17, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release


Youth participants are also expected to organize their community action plan and pass a manifesto or oath for peace on the final day of the summit. (DED-PIA 12, South Cotabato)


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 17 (PIA) -- Soccsksargen’s Regional Development Council recently launched the Regional Development Plan (RDP) from 2011 – 2016 under the theme “Establishing its Role as the Sustainable Food Center in the South.”
==Army troops join Earth Day clean-up drive in Tacurong City==
The RDP envisions Soccsksargen or Region 12 to be the “home of God-centered and empowered, culturally diverse people, provider of world class high value crops, fishery, mineral and tourism products and services, propelled by dynamic and dedicated leaders, and living in a green and healthy environment.”
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611335164680
In attaining its vision, the following are the strategic outcomes that the council will undertake for the next six years: increased and sustained growth in agriculture, fishery, and industry; equal access to basic services; effective infrastructure support; adequate and reliable energy supply; improved ecological integrity; good governance; and sustained peace, development, and security.
*Monday 23rd of April 2012
The launching was attended by Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Talino of Cotabato Province, Mayor Darlene Antonino of General Santos City, Mayor Peter Miguel of Koronadal City and Director Socorro Ramos of NEDA 12.
:by   (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)  
A representative of Secretary Lualhati Antonino, Chairperson of the Mindanao Development Authority (MINDA) also attended the activity. Also present were the regional heads and representatives from the different National Government Agencies (NGAs) and local government units (LGUs).
In her message which was read by her representative, Sec. Antonino hailed the region’s principle of “synergy” in reaching the eaves of success.
She also congratulated the Council in launching the RDP which is a meaningful renewal of the Council’s commitment towards development of the Soccsksargen region.
Soccsksargen Region covers the provinces of Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and North Cotabato and the cities of Cotabato, Kidapawan, Tacurong, Koronadal and General Santos. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/CLSonsona/DOLE 12)


==More than 3,000 benefited from LBK bus tour to T’boli town==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=59434
*Sunday, October 16, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 23 (PIA) -- Troops of the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade based in nearby Tacurong City on Saturday joined different sectors in a clean-up drive, which was part of the city’s celebration of the Earth Day 2012.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 16 (PIA) -- The recent tour of Department of Health’s Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan (LBK) to South Cotabato directly benefited at least 3,182 elderlies, parents and children in T’boli town, an official of the provincial government said.
Civil military operations officer Cpt. Alex Escalante, explained the Unifier Brigade’s participation in the “Limpyo Kalog” (cleaning of canals) was to encourage people to participate in environmental preservation and protection.  
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Rogelio Aturdido reported that 1,167 individuals received “critical health services” on the first day of operation and 2,015 were added on the second day.
Most of them are indigenous peoples living in remote barangays seldom reached by similar kind of health services packed in a “festival mood.”
DOH’s LBK was in Barangay Aflek, T’boli on October 5 and 6 to offer maternal and child health medical consultations, and primary health care services.
They also have health education packages presented innovative approaches like fun and games and an interactive exhibit of health messages.
It was originally planned to serve 500 families or 1,500 to 2,000 individuals from Aflek and at least ten neighboring villages.
Dr. Aturdido said, the management of Health Promotion and Communication Project (HealthPRO) has sent him an email to express gratitude for the success of the activity and for the impressive support provided by all levels of local government and their partners.
Because of the success of the LBK bus tour in T’boli, the provincial government is now working on a plan to replicate the LBK concept in its health services to underserved communities.
For this purpose, rarely used “Erap” mobile clinic has been sent to Davao City for its re-wrapping to look like the LBK bus. HealthPRO is spending around P100,000 for the wrapping of the bus.
Aturdido expects the local government’s LBK bus to start its trip to remote villages before the year ends. (PIA 12)


==LGU to implement austerity measures due to IRA cut==
Other participants of the activity were member of the Philippine National Police, employees and officials of the local government units, academe and the transports groups.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=59175
*Friday, October 14, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


Non-government organizations, civil society and the private sector also joined in the activity.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 14 (PIA) -- With the inevitable cut in its 2012 internal revenue allotment, the local of government of Koronadal may have to enforce changes in the lifestyle of both officials and employees.
Clean-up focused on cleaning of the city’s canals of wastes, debris, plastics and other materials that could clog the drainage during heavy rains as well as clearing of the grasses along the national highway.  
City treasurer Marlon Gumbao said the city LGU will also be implementing several measures to brace the city from the effects of limited funds for maintenance and other operating expenses.
Gumbao confirmed that next year, more than P59 million will be cut from the city’s IRA after the Supreme Court decided with finality that the cityhood conversion of 16 municipalities is legal.
IRAs of its 27 barangays will also be reduced.
“The solution to this problem is simple. We just have to implement austerity measures,” Gumbao said.
He said, they may have to order frugal use of electricity, gasoline, and office supplies and limit trips of department heads.
For electricity alone, the city LGU spends almost P500,000 a month. “With the budget cut, we may have to think of ways to reduce our monthly electric bill to P250,000,” he said.
The city LGU is also cutting its annual budget for next year.
Gumbao said, they are preparing for a P440-million budget for next year instead of the expected P525 million.
He, however, clarified that the budget is still in the proposal stage and has not been submitted to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
In an earlier interview, Mayor Peter B. Miguel promised that the budget cut will not hamper the delivery of basic services by the city government.
He said, the city will have to find other sources of income, including beefing up the city’s tax collection activities.
With 16 more cities getting share from the IRA, LGUs nationwide will be experiencing a total cut of their IRA by 4.8 percent.
These new cities are: Baybay in Leyte, Bogo in Cebu, Catbalogan in Samar), Tandag in Surigao del Sur, Lamitan in Basilan, Borongan in Samar, Tayabas in Quezon, Tabuk in Kalinga, Bayugan in Agusan del Sur, Batac in Ilocos Norte, Mati in Davao Oriental, Guihulngan in Negros Oriental, Cabadbaran in Agusan del Norte), El Salvador in Misamis Oriental, and Carcar and Naga City in Cebu. (PIA 12)


==South Cotabato gov bans issuance of special quarry permits==
After the clean-up drive, participants converged at the City Hall Ground for a short program
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=378951
*October 13, 2011, 5:25 pm
:by  (PNA)
DCT/FFC/AVE


Unifier Brigade commander, Col. Edmundo Pangilinan reminded the participants: “Earth Day is every day, so let us work together and better care for our natural environment.


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Oct. 13 (PNA) – South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. has stopped the issuance of special permits for quarry operations in the province following an accident in a quarry site in Polomolok town last weekend that killed a teenage worker.
Tacurong City councilor Psyche Sucaldito, Tacurong , chairperson of the committee on environment also expressed appreciation to all participants for sharing their time and effort to care for Mother Earth.  


Pingoy said Thursday he also directed the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO) to evaluate the compliance to basic safety standards of existing quarry operations within the province’s 10 towns and lone city and look deeper into last week’s incident.
Earth Day is an annual global celebration, spearheaded by the Earth Day Network. It is geared toward bringing awareness and appreciation of the Earth’s natural environment.  


“We will no longer issue any special permit. All applications for quarry operations will be processed for regular permits and will be carefully scrutinized in terms of their compliance to safety requirements,” he said.
This year, the Earth Day Network expected at least two billion people worldwide joining the Earth Day celebration and helping “Mobilize the Earth.”


The governor, who co-chairs the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board (PMRB), said the local government will immediately issue a stoppage and closure order for quarry sites and operations that would fail the safety evaluation.


The PMRB regulates the operations of quarry operations and small-scale mining activities within the province.


Quarry worker Alvedaic Bola, 15, was killed on Saturday following a landslide at a quarry site in Barangay Poblacion in Polomolok town.


The victim was reportedly resting at a portion of the quarry site in Purok Balabat when a nearby cliff collapsed on him.


The municipal government of Polomolok has already launched an investigation on the incident and the reported employment of the victim, who is a minor, at the quarry site.


Siegfred Flaviano, acting PEMO chief, said they have also started a separate investigation into the incident and an evaluation of the safety conditions of the quarry site.


He said the quarry site may face permanent closure if the operators would be found violating any of the safety standards that were set by the provincial government.


Flaviano said they are currently monitoring and evaluating the operations of other existing quarry sites in the province as ordered by the governor.


“We’re specifically reviewing their compliance to the safety standards and other local government regulations of the operators and whether the quarry sites are still safe to work on,” he said.


To ensure the proper regulation of quarry operations, Flaviano said they are looking at the possibility of establishing a common quarry site in each of the province’s 10 towns and lone city.


He said such move will enable PEMO personnel to easily monitor the quarry operations and impose the necessary regulations to the operators.
==Peace Council objects to establishment of MILF camps in the So. Cotabato==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611335053963
*Sunday 22nd of April 2012
:by  Danilo E. Doguiles


==Food poisoning downs family in T’boli, South Cotabato==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=58556
*Tuesday, October 11, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 22 (PIA) -- South Cotabato’s Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) chaired by Governor Arthur “Dodo” Y. Pingoy Jr. during its second quarter meeting on Wednesday passed two resolutions objecting the putting up of two camps in the province by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 11 (PIA) --Health officials in South Cotabato are conducting investigation of a food poisoning incident in T’boli town that downed a family of six.
Senior Board Member Jose Madanguit, who was the proponent of the two resolutions, disclosed that the acts of the MILF was in violation of the present ceasefire agreement between the Philippine government and the MILF.  
Dr. Rogelio Aturdido Jr., provincial health officer, said he immediately ordered a team to go to SitioLibi, Barangay Lambuling, T’boli to help determine the cause of food poisoning of a family that led to death of two children and hospitalization of four others.
Norberto Lapastora, administrative officer of the local government of T’boli , identified the victims who are now under observation at the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital as Jomari and Mary Ann Fundo and their children Saida and Lorie.
Fatalities were identified as Narjun Fundo and Maila Fundo.
Initial reports that reached T’boli LGU said that the family experienced severe abdominal pain, headache and vomiting after eating a meal of porridge allegedly made from NFA rice distributed under the Municipal Social Welfare Office’s supplemental feeding program.
However, Dr.Aturdido said this report has yet to be confirmed. He said, investigation is still underway to determine what the victims have ingested.
Aturdido said they have already collected stool and blood samples for laboratory examinations.
Lapastora meanwhile said samples of the rice alleged to have poisoned the family have been sent to Davao City for testing.
Aturdido also reported that both parents and one of the two children confined at SCPH are now stable but added that one of the children is still in a critical condition. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


==Early marriage still common among T'boli tribe: Mayor==
The first resolution specifically objected to the putting up of a camp at Tudok, T’boli, while the second resolution also objected the putting up of a satellite camp at Sitio Lampakpak, Lampari, Banga.  
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2011/10/07/early-marriage-still-common-among-tboli-tribe-mayor-183658
*Friday, October 7, 2011
:by  Published in the Sun.Star Davao newspaper


Both resolutions also called for the immediate dismantling of the two camps.


T'BOLI, South Cotabato -- With early marriage still prevalent among tribal communities here, the National Government's health caravan, dubbed as "Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan (LBK)", rolled out here Thursday in a bid to lessen such phenomenon, as well as provide health care services.
The move was prompted after the presentation of Lt. Col. Alexis Noel Bravo, commanding officer of the 27th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army based in the town of Tupi, confirming the presence of the MILF to set up camps in the province.  


Mayor Ernesto Manuel hopes the municipality, with 70 percent of the population composed of indigenous people, mostly T’bolis, could rise from poverty.
“The MILF 107th Base Command with a strength, more or less, of about 200 fully armed combatants, was responsible for setting up the camp in Tudok, T’boli,” Bravo added, ”but the camp is currently maintained by members numbering between 30 to 40 only.”


"In our case, we have 10, 12-year-old [T'boli] girls getting married already, and so they were forced to stop schooling," Manuel said, lamenting that this as a major reason why many of his tribal constituents are poor.
In Sitio Lampakpak, Lampari, Banga, the military has monitored around 11 fully armed members staying in the satellite camp.  


"We would like to discourage early marriage [hopefully with this health caravan]," he added.
Tupi Mayor Reynaldo Tamayo and Banga Mayor Henry Ladot, who were present during the meeting and whose municipalities bordered the MILF satellite camp, expressed their respective concerns regarding the situation and appealed for intervention, especially in the dismantling of the camp.  


The mayor thanked the organizers of the health caravan, which was held at the Barangay Aflek gymnasium here.
The satellite camp was previously occupied by the MILF, but dismantled about five years ago, which raised questions among PPOC members why the said group occupied it again.  


In the traditional T'boli culture, marriages are pre-arranged by the parents, and may be contracted at any age, even right after the child's birth.
In an interview with a radio station here today, MILF vice chairman Gadzali Jaafar confirmed that they have several camps in South Cotabato and the neighboring provinces of Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat.  


The mayor also stressed the need for a continuing family planning education among the tribal members to help them out of poverty.
He, however, cannot confirm the presence of the camps that were identified in the PPOC resolution.  


South Cotabato Governor Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. said the province is blessed for having been chosen as one of the destinations of the pilot year of the LBK health caravan of the Department of Health.
Jaafar emphasized that residents in South Cotabato need not be concerned about the camps in the province because they respect the ceasefire agreement between the MILF and the Philippine government. (DED-PIA 12/ FS-SoCot-PIO)


"Health provision, especially for the poorest of the poor, is a priority program of the Provincial Government," said Pingoy.
==DTI’s SME Caravan 2012 focuses on upgrading enterprises==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611334961208
*Saturday 21st of April 2012
:by  Danilo E. Doguiles


The health caravan implored the importance of pre-natal check-up, safe pregnancy and delivery, birth spacing and hand washing.


About 1,500 residents in the town have been expected to avail the services of the LBK caravan, organizers said.
KORONADAL CITY, Southern Mindanao April 21 (PIA) -- Once again, Sultan Kudarat province’s Department of Trade and Industry will gather micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) in Soccsksargen Region to help boost local enterprises.  


Aligned with the Aquino administration’s health agenda of universal access to quality health care, LBK aims to bring quality health information, education and services to Filipino people, especially in remote communities.
This time though, preferred participants to the SME Caravan 2012 at the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Gymnasium in Isulan town on April 25 to 26 are those who have existing enterprises and are looking for means to improve their businesses.  


The LBK features a bus, customized with consultation and examination clinics and a health promotion arena of interactive exhibits, health classes and wellness activities, storytelling sessions, cooking demos, games and raffles, dance contests and entertainment shows focused on safe motherhood, child nutrition and family health.
Sultan Kudarat Trade & Industry Provincial Director Nelly Dillera said the SME Caravan 2012 aims to provide the local entrepreneurs with first hand information on entrepreneurship – from improvement of product to capacitating entrepreneurs.  


LBK carries the theme "Walang Iwanan sa Biyaheng Kalusugan."
“This year’s SME Caravan in Region 12 would help the growing number of entrepreneurs learn how to manage their businesses, access funds, maintain high level of product quality for food and enhance their awareness on sensing the right and legitimate local and international market opportunities,” Dillera said.  


==SouthCot gov urges vigilance amid NPA attack in Surigao==
“There shall also be a topic on Tourism Product Identification and Development to aid the tourism officers and even landowners in identifying potential area for tourism development.”
*Source: http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2011/10/06/southcot-gov-urges-vigilance-amid-npa-attack-in-surigao/
* Thursday| October 6, 2011
:by  Bong S. Sarmiento


Among the resource persons invited for the breakout sessions include Roberto Castañeda and Euclid Cezar.


T’BOLI, South Cotabato (MindaNews / 6 Oct) – The South Cotabato government has urged for extra vigilance to avoid the possible attack by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels against mining firms operating in the area.
Castañeda, who will share his knowledge on developing an entrepreneurial mindset and surviving pitfalls of small businesses, is the founder of the Don Roberto’s Winery, producer of the world’s first mango wine. Besides, its green mango and sweet mango wines, his company also produces brewed coffee wine.  
South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. made the appeal Thursday in the wake of the NPA attack in Surigao del Norte Monday against Nickel Asia Corp., the country’s largest nickel producer and partly owned by Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. Ltd.
In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Wednesday, Nickel Asia said they have already resumed operations following the attack, which damaged equipment worth an estimated P500 million.
Pingoy said that police and military personnel in South Cotabato are closely guarding the area even as he claimed that the threat of the NPA in the province “has been eliminated.”
“We are trying to secure all, and so we are on guard [all the time],” he told MindaNews at the sidelines of a health event here.
This town also hosts the large-scale gold-silver project of Canadian firm Cadan Resources Corp. in partnership with the local Tribal Mining Corp.
But while the governor “downplayed” the threats from the communist guerillas, Pingoy said they have monitored NPA recruitment in Barangay Ned [Lake Sebu town] and parts of Tampakan.
Lake Sebu and Tampakan towns are home to huge coal and copper deposits, respectively, with San Miguel Corp. holding rights over the former and Sagittarius Mines, Inc. on the latter.
Pingoy said that government security troops are on top of the situation, noting that last week, internal security efforts have been turned over to the provincial government by the military.
The turnover of internal security came after “assessments that South Cotabato has been cleared from the influence of the communist rebels.”
Pingoy said there has been troops deployment in Tampakan town “but for the purpose of containing” the illegal sluice mining operations, locally called banlas.
He dispelled allegations from local anti-mining groups that the deployment of soldiers in Tampakan was for the protection of Sagittarius Mines, noting that the “government is mandated to ensure the security of everyone.”
It maybe recalled that on New Year’s Day 2008, NPA guerillas stormed the base camp of Sagittarius Mines in the mountains of Tampakan. They burned the administration building and mining equipment worth P12 million.
In January the following year, NPA rebels raided the Tampakan police station downtown, which resulted to the wounding of three policemen and another civilian.
Since then, the NPA rebels have warned future offensives against Sagittarius Mines if it will not pullout its venture also straddling the towns of Columbio in Sultan Kudarat, Kiblawan in Davao del Sur and Malungon in Sarangani.
Sagittarius Mines is controlled by Xstrata Copper, the world’s fourth largest copper producer, with Australian firm Indophil Resources NL as the junior equity partner.
The Tampakan project is touted as the largest known undeveloped copper-gold deposit in Southeast Asia, with commercial operations targeted in 2016 notwithstanding the open-pit ban imposed by the South Cotabato government. (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)


Cezar, a professor of San Beda College – Manila, is a well-known business coach and host of “Super Entrepinoy” program. He is the owner of Ink More which sells ready-to-use ink cartridges.


“We want to benchmark what these entrepreneurs have done to be able to inspire our ‘kababayans’ to aspire to attain what these entrepreneurs have achieved,” Dillera said in an interview with a local radio station.


Other resource persons include Engr. Menandro Ortego, OIC Testing and Inspection Division of the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), who will discuss food safety assurance system; and Dennis Monong, assistant vice president for Mindanao operations of People’s Credit and Finance Corporation (PCFC) who will teach MSMEs how to find best financing for their businesses.


Side events such as trade fair of Region 12’s best products, market matching, product evaluation, design exhibit, online business name registration, and plant visit and assessment for the acquisition of Food and Drug License to Operate.


Dillera said preferred participants are entrepreneurs involved in the region’s priority industries like processors of coffee, muscovado, banana, coconut, bangus/fishery, crafts, bamboo, pangasius, rubber, palm oil, mango, ICT-BPO.


Dillera reported that number of new businesses in Sultan Kudarat has increased 84 percent, from 959 newly registered businesses in 2010 to 1,770 in 2011. Last year, 121 new entrepreneurs were created, which is 74 percent higher than the 107 new entrepreneurs in 2010.


==NHTS-PR solves problem on “political indigents” -- Philhealth official==
This is a two-day activity for free but reservations must be made for pre-screening. Contact the nearest DTI office for details and reservations. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=57707
*Wednesday, October 05, 2011
:by  Hanah Naanep and Dani Doguiles


==South Cotabato generally peaceful -- PNP==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1611334888702
*Friday 20th of April 2012
:by  (Fruto C. Sumagaysay Jr./DED-PIA 12/SoCot PIO)


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 5 (PIA) -- An official of the Philhealth believes the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) database is an effective tool to prevent social protection benefits from going to the beneficiaries who are not poor.
“Gone are the political indigents,” Philhealth 12 Regional Vice President Ramon Aristoza said during the launching of NHTS-PR database in Soccsksagen region at the Protech Center here. The activity was a highlight of the opening ceremonies of the 22nd Statistics Month celebration.
By political indigents, Aristoza was referring to alleged beneficiaries of pro-poor programs of the government that were only included because they are either related or close to officials identifying list of recipients.
He said, Philhealth, being one of being one of the database’s stakeholders commends the project and encourages the strengthening of its review process in coordination with other partner agencies to avoid duplication and validate true recipients like the Pantawid Pamilya Program and Sponsored Program of PHilhealth
NHTS-PR, a nationwide project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is an information management system that identifies who and where the poor are aimed for the government and civil society to establish objective targeting system and helps reduce inclusion of non poor in social protection.
It is a system that uses a statistical model that estimates income of households using the proxy variables that includes family composition, education of household members, housing conditions and access to basic services.
In March last year, President Benigno Aquino III signed Executive Order 867 directed all national government agencies to use the NHTS-PR as basis in identifying beneficiaries of social protection programs and services.
Jackiya Lao, NHTS-PR focal person ng NHTS-PR DSWD 12, in an earlier interview said with the NHTS-PR database social protection programs and projects are downloaded to the implementing agencies with a list of specific recipients.
Aristoza said NHTS-PR is the best statistical tool the national government should pursue in attaining the theme of the 22nd National Statistics Month celebration, “Quality Social Protection Statistics for Focused Targeting: Improving Outcomes, Changing Lives. ”
“As professionals in the social protection sector, we have long been in the business of helping the poor and the disadvantaged. As to what extent we have served, we can give you numbers of people served and how much was spent. But as to how much, have made into their lives, we cannot give you quantifiable figures,” DSWD XII Regional Director Bai Zorahayda T. Taha said.
She added the public is assured that the database can be corrected over time to ensure that those listed as poor households are in reality indigents.
Possible errors in data gathering may happen but the project has instituted a validation mechanism to address the problem, she said.
“Since our core social protection programs utilize this database the DSWD in collaboration with other agencies, we can work together to create synergetic efforts towards social protection for the poor,” Taha said.
According to the NHTS database Region 12 has 129,043 indigent households.
Region 12 or Soccsksargen Region covers the provinces of Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. (PIA 12/Philhealth 12)


==‘Lolong’ takes first meal in captivity==
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 20 (PIA) -- “The peace and order situation in the province is generally peaceful, under control,” Police Senior Superintendent Randolf Delfin, South Cotabato Police Provincial Office (SCPPO) Provincial Director, during the 2nd quarterly meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting held on Wednesday in Koronadal City.
*Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/70321/%E2%80%98lolong%E2%80%99-takes-first-meal-in-captivity
*4:00 pm | Tuesday, October 4th, 2011
:by  Jeoffrey Maitem


For the first quarter of the year, Delfin said, the province’s total crime volume was 793. Of this number 494 were cleared and 218 were solved.


KORONADAL CITY, Philippines – Lolong, the one-ton crocodile captured in the Agusan Marsh last month, ate his first meal – a seven-kilogram slab of pork – Monday night, a local official said Tuesday.
PD Delfin said that the province’s crime rate in the first quarter of this year have reduced compared to last year in the same period.  
Welinda Asis-Elorde, media relations coordinator of the municipality of Bunawan in Agusan del Sur, told the Philippine Daily Inquirer by phone that Lolong, who had refused to eat since his capture nearly September 3, ate the food that was given to him by a worker at the wildlife park around 10 p.m. Monday.
“Tonight, we will try also to give food. Maybe the croc is not satisfied. We usually do it alternately. Once we serve pork, the next time, we provide dressed chicken,” she said.


==DSWD 12 launches National Household Targeting System database==
Data indicated that the crime rate for the first quarter of 2012 averaged 31.9% versus 35.7% in the first quarter of last year, he reported.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=57270
*Monday, October 03, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


Crime solution efficiency, he continued, increased from 25% in 2011 to 27.33% in 2012; crime cleared efficiency also increased from 53.33% in 2011 to 73.33% in 2012.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct 3 (PIA) -- The regional office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD 12) today launched the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) database.
The SCPPO scored big in its campaign against illegal drugs with 33 persons arrested out of 18 operations conducted, and confiscating in the process illegal drugs (both marijuana and shabu) with an estimated DDB street value of more than P5 million .  
The launching highlighted the opening ceremonies of the 22nd National Statistics Month celebration in Region 12 at the Protech Center in Koronadal City.
Jackiya Lao, NHTS-PR focal person of DSWD 12, said with the launching they are presenting to the public the database which had undergone two years of intense re-evaluation and “cleaning.”
“This is the first attempt of the Philippine government to establish an electronic database of all the poor households in the entire country,” she said.
NHTS-PR is an information management system that identifies who and where the poor are nationwide.
It aims to create an objective and transparent database of poor households “which will serve as guide to government agencies and other stakeholders beneficiaries of social welfare programs,” she added.
Lao added the database changes the manner by which program and project beneficiaries are determined.
“Before, we had to ask local government units for a list of possible beneficiaries before we can implement a program. With the NHTS-PR database, before programs are downloaded to the implementing agencies those who will receive benefits from the programs have already been identified,” she explained.
According to the database, Soccsksargen Region has 129,043 households that are considered poor.
Soccsksargen region covers the provinces of Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato City.
Also during the opening activity of the statistics month celebration, Herlita Caraan, regional head of the National Statistics Coordination Boards (NSCB) delivered “Tracking on MDGs: Region 12 Beating the Odds Between Now and 2015.”
Her presentation updated stakeholders on the status of the region in terms of attaining the various MDG goals.
Several activities such as symposia, workshops, conferences, seminars, trainings, exhibits, statistics quizzes, poster and slogan making contests, and IEC activities are also lined up for the rest of the month to give emphasis on the importance and value of statistics.
This year’s celebration theme is “Quality Social Protection Statistics for Focused Targeting: Improving Outcomes, Changing Lives. (PIA 12)


==Provincial gov't renews call for rabies vaccination==
In its campaign against wanted persons, 75 persons with warrants of arrest were apprehended while 18 financiers, coordinators or ushers were likewise arrested in its campaign against illegal gambling.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=57139
*Sunday, October 02, 2011
:by  Dani Doguiles


he SCPPO report further indicated that they were able to recover IEDs at Lamba, Banga and Magon, Tantangan early this year, and 18 low-powered and high-powered firearms which resulted in the apprehension of 12 suspects.


KORONADAL CITY, Oct. 2 (PIA) -- Officials of South Cotabato's Provincial Veterinary Office (PVet) have renewed their call to residents of the province to have their pet dogs vaccinated against rabies.
In their anti-carnapping campaign, the SCPPO were able to recover 15 motorcycles out of the 23 incidents reported, in which six cases have been filed in court.
PVet conducted mass vaccination and castration in T'boli town on Wednesday to celebrate the World Rabies Awareness Day but only six of its 27 barangays have supported the activity.
From January to June, three residents in the municipality died of rabies.
Provincial health officials also searched for at least 40 individuals in the area who killed and ate a suspected rabid dog for their post exposure prophylaxis to prevent more deaths due to rabies.
Dr. Lorna Lamorena has also called on barangay officials to encourage their constituents to support the campaign to rid the province of the fatal virus.
She said they only charge a fee of P10 for each shot of anti rabies vaccine.
She added the amount is very minimal as compared to the cost of treatment which could amount at least P16,000 once a person is exposed to the virus.
Death cannot be avoided once rabies virus has attacked the nervous system, Lamorena pointed out.
A report from the provincial epidemiology and surveillance unit said that South Cotabato government has already spent more than P9 million for anti-rabies vaccines since 2009.
Of the said amount P2.7 million were spent this year to prevent the escalation of the recent spate of rabies incidents in the province.
This year, rabies has been listed among the top ten diseases in South Cotabato. (PIA 12)


==Former rebels, sympathizers to receive livelihood assistance from DA, Philippine Army==
==RDRRMC, LGUs in Soccsksargen region discuss RA 10121==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=57058
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1611334810706
*Saturday, October 01, 2011
*Thursday 19th of April 2012
:by Dani Doguiles
:by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)




KORONADAL CITY, Oct 1 (PIA) -- Rebel returnees and former New People’s Army (NPA) sympathizers in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat will soon receive livelihood assistance from the Department of Agriculture in the region and the Philippine Army.
Lt. Col Alexis Noel Bravo, commanding officer of the 27th Infantry Battalion, said they are now finalizing with DA 12 Regional Executive Director Amalia Datukan the release of P1 million worth of seedlings to rebel returnees, former sympathizers, and residents in the 11 villages of Columbio.
He said the assistance is line with the government’s social re-integration program where returnees are assistance, primarily through the Department of Social Welfare and Development from which they could earn their living and address poverty.
“We were able to facilitate around P1 million worth of high value crops seedlings to be distributed to the former sympathizers of NPA as their additional source of income,” he said.
The intended beneficiaries have been trained in the cultural management of the high value crops. They have also underwent exposure trips to leading plantations and model farms.
“Hopefully, we can release the seedling to the beneficiaries before the end of this year,” he said.
"These former rebel sympathizers have been organized and are now members of the barangay defense system," he added.
Bravo said his troops are concentrating on the mountain villages in the boundaries of Columbio, Matanao and Magsaysay in Davao del Sur and Makilala in North Cotabato because NPA rebels are still operating in the area.
He confirmed that NPA’s Front 72 has a guerrilla troop of less than 50 members in the area but added that their influence in the communities has already diminished after they intensified their peace and development outreach programs in communities known to have been controlled or influenced by the rebel group. (PIA 12)


==DOST 12 sets up 3 Automated Weather Stations==
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 19 (PIA) -- Local chief executives and LGU officials involved in disaster risk reduction and management across Soccsksargen region gathered here yesterday to discuss issues pertaining to the two-year old RA 10121 otherwise known as "Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010".
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=56909
*Friday, September 30, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release


Jerome Barranco, assistant regional director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) 12, explained that the regional consultation organized by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) 12 was called to clarify issues regarding RA 10121.


KORONADAL CITY, Sept 30 (PIA) -- The regional office of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-12) has installed automated weather stations (AWS) in three strategic locations in the region as part of the government’s nationwide disaster modernization mitigation program.
He said there have been “varying interpretations of the new law resulting in either immediate or delayed establishment of the local DRRM (disaster risk reduction and management ) councils.”  
Dr. Zenaida P. Hadji Raof Laidan, DOST-12 regional director, said the AWS were installed at the General Santos City airport, at the People’s Palace compound in Cotabato City, and in Barangay Badyangon in the coastal town of Palimbang in Sultan Kudarat province.
“The AWS is a modern weather tracking device that can do remote meteorological measurements and send data on a real-time basis,” she said.
Director Laidan said the AWS, which costs P250,000 each, can also be used to issue a tsunami warning so that people in the coastal areas can evacuate before it could strike.
She said that the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), of the DOST, is presently embarking on the establishment of AWS nationwide in line with its modernization program.
The project is in coordination with the DOST’s Advance Science and Technology Institute (ASTI), which developed various instruments such as AWS to assist PAGASA in weather monitoring and forecasting.
PAGASA, in addition to the Doppler Radar installation project, needs the AWS to automate its ground stations in order to perform faster, more accurate and efficient data system to help in early warning and monitoring of potential disasters.
The automation of data acquisition and transmission will decrease operational cost and minimize the possibility of errors brought about by manual instruments.
The AWS project hopes to establish and maintain a nationwide environmental monitoring network that will continuously provide warnings for the mitigation of environment-related disasters.
Each AWS is equipped with sensors capable of measuring weather parameters, wind speed and direction, air temperature, air humidity, air pressure, rain volume, duration and intensity.
It will also help in monitoring flood and typhoon that may affect the locality.
There will be a total of 80 AWS stations that will be established in the different parts of the country.
The nationwide setting up of AWS is under a special project dubbed “Development of Hybrid Weather Monitoring System and Production of Weather and Rain Automated Stations.”
It also seeks to support the disaster preparedness programs of local government units, particularly their respective Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils.
The AWS also aims to improve the climate change adaptation and disaster risk mitigation programs of the LGUs.
To access DOST’s AWS nationwide, one can visit AWS Website: http://202.90.149.66/predict/stations.php. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/BK Tagitican, DOST 12)


==DENR 12 has new RTD for Land Management Service==
“The latter was due to the hesitation or fear of violating audit and budget rules,” he continued.  
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=56733
*Thursday, September 29, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release


He added that they brought together governors and mayors as well as chairpersons of local DRRMs and budget officers of the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani and the cities of Cotabato, Kidapawan, Tacurong, Koronadal, and General Santos City basically to increase local awareness on the DRRM law.


KORONADAL CITY, Sept 29 (PIA) -- The regional office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR – 12) has a new regional technical director (RTD) for Land Management Services (LMS).
Objectives include orienting the LGUs on civil service guidelines pertaining to the establishment of DRMM offices and budgetary and audit guidelines on the allocation and utilization of the local DRRM funds.  
RTD for Lands Geronimo L. Sequito in a turnover ceremony at the function hall of DENR 12 on Tuesday handed over to Sultan Kudarat Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Morakie P. Domanday the leadership of the LMS.
During his acceptance speech, Domanday said that the new post has effectively transformed him from being a generalist to being a specialist.
“I intend to run the LMS like Gerry (referring to Sequito), except when there is still room for improvement,” he said.
Domanday is a career service office officer.
After thanking DENR 12 Regional Executive Director (RED) Alfredo S. Pascual for the trust and confidence by giving the RTD post for 9 months and his subordinates for the support, Sequito urged the LMS personnel to give the same level of support to the new RTD for lands.
During his stint as RTD for lands, DENR 12 topped all 15 regional offices of the department in terms of accomplishing most goals.
After the ceremonies at the regional office, DENR officials and employees proceeded to the DENR provincial office in Barangay Montilla, Tacurong City for another turnover ceremony, this time Domanday handing over to Sequito the leadership of DENR Sultan Kudarat Provincial Office.
Both Domanday and Sequito were designate to their previous posts on officer-in-charge status.
On both occasions, RED Pascual emphasized that the latest change in leadership is part of organizational development of the Department and that nobody did wrong.
Pascual likewise urged DENR personnel to follow the command of the two officials.
The reshuffle was implemented by virtue of DENR Special Order No. 2011 – 689 issued on September 19 by the DENR Undersecretary for Field Operations, Atty. Ernesto D. Adobo, Jr. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/MCalungsod-Locsin/DENR 12).


==AFP sets turnover of internal security efforts to South Cotabato gov’t==
Regional officials of the Civil Service Commission, Department of Budget and Management, and Commission of Audit were present to discuss the aforementioned issues with the LCEs and other LGU officials.
*Source: http://positivenewsmedia.com/blog/2011/09/afp-sets-turnover-of-internal-security-efforts-to-south-cotabato-gov%E2%80%99t/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=afp-sets-turnover-of-internal-security-efforts-to-south-cotabato-gov%25e2%2580%2599t
*Sep 28, 2011 
:by  (PNA)LDV/AVE/mec


It was also a venue for the LGUs and local DRRM councils to learn from the successful experiences of some locally established DRRM offices, including South Cotabato and Sarangani provinces and Tupi municipality, Barranco further explained.


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Sept. 28 (PNA) – Declaring the entire South Cotabato province as now “insurgency-free,” the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will turn over this week to the provincial government the lead role in the implementation of the “internal security operations” or ISO in the area.
Tupi’s Barangay Poblacion’s DRRM Council of is a Gawad Kalasag National Awardee for its excellent implementation of disaster risk reduction and management plan and humanitarian assistance.  
Lt. Col. Alex Noel Bravo, commander of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion (IB), said Tuesday the AFP will sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the local government of South Cotabato on Friday to formalize the transfer of the ISO implementation, which would be shifting focus on socio-economic and development-related initiatives.
“We already cleared the whole province of insurgents or rebel units belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA) so the ISO efforts will now be concentrated on development and that will be under the lead initiative of the LGU (local government unit),” he said in a media forum in Koronadal City.
South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. will sign the agreement for the provincial government and Maj. Gen. Jorge Segovia, commander of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, for the AFP, he said.
The MOA signing, which will be held at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center in Koronadal City, will be witnessed by Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo and AFP Eastern Mindanao Command chief Maj. Gen. Arthur Tabaquero.
The official said the transfer of the ISO function to the provincial government was part of the Internal Peace and Security Plan endorsed by President Benigno Simeon Aquino III that took effect last January 1.
Under the plan, he said LGUs will be given the lead role in the implementation of the consolidation and development phase of the ISO after the completion of the clearing phase by the AFP.
Bravo said the LGUs will mainly facilitate the convergence of various government agencies in the implementation of development-related projects and programs in areas that were previously influenced by NPA rebels.
He said the initiative was launched earlier this year in Central Luzon and in the provinces of Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon here in Mindanao.
South Cotabato will be the third province in Mindanao that will take part in the initiative, he said.
Citing their records, Bravo said the entire province was declared as already cleared of the NPA’s presence when he assumed as 27th IB commander last May.
Such declaration was earlier made based on a report from the Joint AFP/PNP Intelligence Committee or JAPEC.
He explained that that their troops specifically dismantled the political structure and so-called “shadow government” in several villages within the province’s 10 towns and lone city that had been established by the NPA’s guerilla front 73.
“There are no more armed groups to speak about that are still based in the area so we will just take the supporting role in the ISO implementation,” Bravo said.
Under the MOA, he said the provincial government will establish the Provincial Public Safety and Security Operations Center, which will spearhead the ISO implementation and handle issues and concerns on the matter.
Bravo said the said the AFP will also deploy one of its engineering battalions to the province to undertake development projects such as the construction of classroom buildings, roads and other vital infrastructure in areas that were previously shunned by private contractors due to security concerns.
Initially, he said they are working for the deployment of the engineering battalion in Barangay Ned in Lake Sebu town to assist the implementation of a road project in the area.
“The assignment of the engineering battalion will be very beneficial to the LGUs since these units usually implement infrastructure projects at much lower costs when compared to private contractors,” he said.
He cited that a single classroom building, which usually costs P600,000 when constructed by private contractors, would only cost P400,000 when undertaken by the AFP’s engineering unit.
“We will also help in seeking funding for socio-economic projects and other initiatives that will eventually enable the provincial government to effectively address its internal security concerns,” he said.


==2 Tampakan barangays get SCCM project==
“The importance of disaster preparedness cannot be relegated to the backseat,” South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. said during his presentation of his provinces DRRM efforts.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=56352
*Tuesday, September 27, 2011
:by  PIA Press Release


He emphasized that the LGUs are primarily tasked with a great responsibility of protecting its inhabitants.


TAMPAKAN, South Cotabato, September 27 (PIA) -- The provincial government here awarded two barangays financial assistance amounting to P100,000 under the South Cotabato Convergence Model (SCCM) Project.
This is why, the said, South Cotabato LGU is set to organize disaster response teams from the grassroots.  
Barangay Sta. Cruz received aid for its vermiculture - vermicomposting livelihood project while Barangay Buto for the repair and rehabilitation of its water sytem.
Just recently, South Cotabato Governor Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. signed a memorandum of agreement with the barangay councils for the immediate implementation of the project.
Barangay Chairmen Reynaldo F. Estanislao of Sta. Cruz and Efren E. Batiao of Buto represented their respective barangay councils in th signing ceremony of the Project Proposal and the Trust Account Management Agreement (TAMA).
SCCM Project Manager Dennis C. Dignadice who conducted the orientation to the core group members assigned to manage the project said, the province will provide financial assistance of P 50,000 to each baranagay.
Dignadice reminded the core groups to properly spend the funds for the project. All transactions should be open to scrutiny by their respective residents to ensure transparency.
In his message to the residents, Pingoy thanked officials and core group members for their commitment and support and encouraged residents to participate in the activities and to support their councils.
“Although this is only a small amount, show that you can properly implement a project,” he told the two core groups.
Pingoy also promised to increase fund assistance for the projects if the residents could prove that they have effectively implemented their projects.
He assured the barangay officials and the core group members that as much as possible he would be transparent to them but he also urged them to do the same.
He also enumerated several accomplishments regarding assistance to barangays and their residents. These include distribution of more than 37,000 Philhealth cards to poor residents, the plan to put up a public hospital in Surahah, and educational assistance to hundreds of poor but deserving students of South Cotabato under the Kabugwason Paglaum Scholarship Program (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/Tampakan CDIO)


==South Cotabato to establish own gas station==
At least 44 volunteers per barangay will be trained to improve the capability of the villages to respond to disasters and calamities, the governor added.  
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=375131
*September 26, 2011, 1:54 pm
: by  (PNA) LDV/AVE


In 2011, South Cotabato’s provincial board passed SP Resolution 99 s. 2011 for the establishment of the provincial DRRM office, now being headed by the provincial administrator with initial designation of employees from the Disaster Management Section of the Disaster and Crisis Management Division of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office along with some employees under the Provincial Administrator’s Office.


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Sept. 26 (PNA) –- The provincial government of South Cotabato is planning to establish its own gasoline station or fuel retail filling outlet in a bid to augment its income and stabilize the local government’s fuel supplies.
“This was resorted to because there were no clear-cut guidelines covering the staffing requirements for the PDRRMO,” Gov. Pingoy reasoned.  


South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. said they held discussions earlier this month with officials of San Miguel Corporation (SMC) to explore the viability of operating a Petron gasoline station in Koronadal City under the local government’s management.
As per section 21 of the RA 10121, “not less than five percent of the estimated revenue from regular sources should be set aside as Local DRRM Fund.”


Petron Corporation, which is considered as the largest oil refining and marketing company in the country, is a subsidiary of SMC.
Seventy percent of which can be allocated for “pre-disaster preparedness programs including training, purchasing life-saving rescue equipment, supplies and medicines, for post-disaster activities, and for payment of premiums on calamity insurance.”


Pingoy said SMC officials initially signified to assist the provincial government in the construction and operation of the planned gasoline station.
“The remaining 30 percent shall be allocated as Quick Response Fund or standy-fund for relief and recovery programs.”


“We pursued the idea so we can come up with an additional economic enterprise and at the same time ensure the availability of fuel supplies for the provincial government’s needs,” he said.
However, Pingoy pointed out, that the same law has not been clear about the 70 percent pre-disaster allocation.  


The governor said they decided to explore such move after the local government failed to secure a supply contract since last month for its fuel requirements.
“There have been discussions whether we are allowed to purchase rescue vehicles out of this fund.”


He said local fuel dealers and suppliers repeatedly shunned the local government’s call for bidding for its fuel requirements supposedly due to the unstable prices of fuel products in the domestic and international markets.
“We are happy to hear that we have with us DBM and COA,” he said. “Hopefully we will be enlightened on this problem.”


Pingoy said the “repeated failure of bidding” for the fuel supplies practically limited the movement of some equipment of the Provincial Engineering Office.
Meanwhile, Director Ronald I. Flores, civil defense executive officer of the Office of the Civil Defense central office who came here as guest of honor announced that the national government is on the final stage of putting up a guideline on the utilization of the Local DRRM Fund.  


“Hopefully, we can make a decision and finalize this matter soon,” he said.
“In due time, the national council, especially the financial community of the national government will come up with a guideline on the utilization of the Local DRRM Fund,” Flores said.  


Under its service station dealership program, Petron requires prospective operators to meet its required capitalization ranging from P1 million to P9 million, depending on the type of trade and type of station available.
“What is stipulated in the implementing rules and regulations related to RA 10121 is that the money can be used for preparedness, mitigation, and rehabilitation,” he said.  


The company also requires applicants to submit a financial statement and business plan for their proposed fuel dealership operation.
“This allows for a wide interpretation by the local government units, including the Commission on Audit which looks into out financial transactions.”


The Department of Energy has also set various requirements for the establishment of new gasoline stations, among them the submission of a project or business plan; proofs of compliance of local permits and licenses; certificate of conforme of facilities to national or accepted international standards on health, safety and environment; product certificate of quality; and, an Environment Compliance Certificate or ECC issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau or a certificate of non-coverage.
However, Flores assured that in the guideline that the national government will issue soon will be specific as to where these funds can be allocated.  


==Gov Pingoy: On with ban on open-pit mine==
He said the guideline is being prepared by the Department of the Interior and Local Government, DBM, Department of Finance, and OCD. Preparations for the said guideline, he added, was started after RA 10121 became a law on May 27, 2010.
*Source: http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2011/09/25/gov-pingoy-on-with-ban-on-open-pit-mine/
*Sunday| September 25, 2011
: by  Edwin G. Espejo


==NIA-12 honors outstanding irrigators in 34th anniv==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1611334716951
*Wednesday 18th of April 2012
:by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/24 September) — Unless the provincial environment code of South Cotabato is declared void and contrary to existing laws, Gov. Arthur Pingoy said he is duty-bound to implement the landmark local legislation which bans open-pit mining in the province.
“As the governor of this province, I will implement the ordinance that there will be no open-pit mining in the province,” the governor said before qualifying his statement.
The governor issued the statement at the closing of the public consultation held Friday in this provincial capital and organized by the local government unit.
Both the proponent of the multi-billion dollar Tampakan copper and gold project and groups opposed to it presented their respective arguments for and against the controversial US$5.9-billion mining venture.
Sagittarius Mines Inc. (SMI), owner of the copper and gold project, presented the results of its environment impact assessment (EIA) before a jam-packed crowd of close to 5,000 at the provincial gym.  Hundreds of others waited and listened to loud speakers outside the gym.


Anti-mining groups led by the Catholic Church also sent their own environment and mining experts who refuted the SMI’s EIA, claiming a major disaster could spell the death of thousands of residents downstream along the major river systems where its mining operation will take place.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 18 (PIA) -- The National Irrigation Administration (NIA-12) celebrates its 34th founding anniversary this week with a lineup of several activities culminating in the awarding of outstanding irrigators’ associations, officials, and employees.  
Rene Cruz, an engineer who was part of the team hired by SMI that conducted the study, was not able to immediately determine the extent of damage and the number of people who may perish from such a disaster when questioned by Clive Wicks, one of the resource persons of the Catholic Church.
SMI is in the process of obtaining permits and licenses from government regulating bodies. It is eyeing to commence commercial production of copper and gold ores in 2016.
In addition to ‘clearing’ 3,965 hectares of arable and forested lands, SMI will also build a 400-megawatt coal-fired power plant, port facilities and a 40-kilometer pipeline conveyor system connecting the open-pit mine in Tampakan, South Cotabato to Malalag in Davao del Sur where the company’s berthing and offsite facilities will be located.
Gov. Pingoy however declined to say if his position is meant to challenge those who may question in court the provision of the provincial environment code specifically banning open pit mining method.
The governor said that unless ordered by the courts, he will have to deny any request by SMI for permits from the provincial government.
SMI manager for corporate community development Elvie Granchera who answered most of the questions hurled against SMI, declined to comment on the apparent legal challenge hurled by Gov. Pingoy.
She said only John Arnaldo is allowed to answer questions from the press.
Arnaldo, SMI corporate communications manager, did not answer however calls made to his mobile phone number.
He later sent a statement through short messaging system saying they are grateful to the governor and members of the provincial board for the opportunity to present their EIA.
“We remain hopeful that the information shared will help the SP (provincial board) in considering the review of the ban on open pit mining,” Arnaldo further said.
His team earlier declined a request for an interview with one of the scientists hired by SMI who conducted the EIA.
Company sources however said SMI maintains it is a mere contractor and holder of the Columbio Financial Assistance Agreement (FTAA) which covered the Tampakan copper and gold project.
In effect, company officials are banking on the national government to be the one to question the constitutionality of the provincial environment code.
South Cotabato provincial board member Cecil Diel said they are open to a review not only of the ban on open pit mining but also other provisions of the controversial ordinance.
But Diel added that she remains opposed to the said mining method.
She likewise vehemently protested an earlier administrative order issued by Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo ordering the provincial board to review the code.
The environment code was signed by former governor and now South Cotabato Rep. Daisy Fuentes.
Signing the code was among the last official acts of Fuentes who is opposed to a review of the landmark local legislation this early. (Edwin G. Espejo/MindaNews Contributor)


==DOST-12 now accepting application for S & T college scholarships==
Eveyln Bragasin, information officer of NIA-12 said activities of the three-day celebration, which started yesterday, include sports competitions in volleyball, dart, badminton, and table tennis. She added that there shall also be cultural dance and choir competitions and Search for Miss NIA-12.  
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=55776
*Saturday, September 24, 2011
: by PIA Press Release


Outstanding irrigators’ associations, irrigation management office managers, operation and maintenance chiefs and employees will also be given awards on April 19 at the Notre Dame of Midsayap College Gymnasium in Midsayap, Cotabato. NIA administrator Antonio s. Nangel will be the guest of honor and speaker in the awards program.


KORONADAL CITY, Sept 24 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology-Region 12 (DOST-12) is urging top graduating high school students to avail of college scholarships being offered by the agency.
Major awardees this year include Engr. C’zar M. Sulaik of North Cotabato as most outstanding Irrigation Management Office Manager, Engr. Gina L. Lozano as most outstanding operation and maintenance chief; Bulacanon IA, Inc. of North Cotabato as most outstanding irrigators’ association under the communal irrigation systems category and Napal-Conel Road IA, Inc. of General Santos City as most outstanding irrigators association for the national irrigation systems category.  
Among these scholarship grants are the Merit Scholarship Program and the S & T Scholarship Program under Republic Act 7687 or the Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994.
Merit program is open to graduating high school students who would like to pursue baccalaureate degrees in S & T fields regardless of family economic status. S & T Act of 1994 is only open to students from poor families.
Annually offered through the DOST’s Science Education Institute (SEI), the scholarships seek to strengthen the country’s competitiveness in the fields of science, mathematics, engineering and technology, among others, to further drive national economic development.
Dr. Zenaida P. Hadji Raof Laidan, DOST-12 regional director said that the scholarships are an effective way to harness the youth’s potentials to also contribute to the development of a strong S & T community in the country.
“These scholarships will not only benefit the beneficiaries and their families but the whole nation as well. One of the major keys for a brighter national economic future rest in the field of science and technology,” she said.
Provincial S & T centers are now accepting applications to the scholarship programs strictly open only to the top five percent of the high school graduating class from the public and private school systems.
Scholars from poor families are entitled to tuition and other school fee subsidies, book allowance, and a monthly living allowance for the school year, among others.
Merit scholars, on the other hand, are entitled to the same benefits except for a pro-rated monthly stipend depending on the economic status of their families.
The examination for both scholarship programs is slated on November 20, 2011 simultaneously nationwide.
In Region 12, the designated testing centers are: University Laboratory School-University of Southern Mindanao in Kabacan, North Cotabato; Notre Dame University in Cotabato City; Mindanao State University in General Santos City; Notre Dame of Marbel University in Koronadal City; and the Sultan Kudarat State University in Tacurong City.
Interested students may get application forms from the nearest DOST regional office or at the provincial S&T centers. Forms can also be downloaded at www.science-scholarships.ph.
Deadline of application is on October 21, 2011.
For more information, please call the DOST-12 main office at (064) 421-6908 and 421-2711. You may also get in touch with our provincial S & T centers at (083) 554-7997 (SarGen); 083-228-2342 (South Cotabato); (064) 200-3521 (Sultan Kudarat); and (064) 248-2112 (North Cotabato). (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/BKTagitican DOST 12).


==Police director aims at operations readiness of forces, vows to enforce discipline==
Outstanding awardees for operation and maintenance are Engrs. Edna C. Bantala, irrigation superintendent of Libungan River Irrigation System; Flora May D. Respicio, principal engineer A of Mlang/Malasila Rivers Irrigation System; Rory F. Avance, principal engineer A of Kabacan River Irrigation System; Orlando A. Tibang, principal engineer A of Marbel-Banga Rivers Irrigation System; Julio L. Antenor, principal engineer A of Ala River Irrigation System and Cesar D. Agduma, principal engineer A of Lambayong/Tacurong River Irrigation System.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=55776
*Friday, September 23, 2011
: by Dani Doguiles


Mary Grace S. Gonzales of Mlang/Malasila Rivers Irrigation System will also receive recognition as outstanding senior water resource facilities technician.


KORONADAL CITY, Sept 23 (PIA) -- Police senior superintendent Randolph Delfin, the new police provincial director of South Cotabato assured the public that his administration is on the right track in ensuring security of the entire province.
NIA-12 will also honor irrigators' associations who have shown exemplary performance in the past year.  
In a recent meeting with the press at the provincial capitol, Delfin announced that he is now focusing on strengthening the operational readiness and restoring discipline among members of the police force under his leadership.
“As I promised during the meeting with the POC, I will give priority to security concerns,” he said. “So, almost every night I’ve been conducting inspections of our police stations to check on the operational readiness of our policemen.”
On Wednesday, Delfin started his unannounced visits and inspections at the municipal police station of Sto.Niño at 1:00 a.m. Sto.Niño town is about 30 kilometers from the provincial headquarters in Koronadal City.
He then proceeded to police stations in Norala, Surallah, and Banga municipalities. At about 4:30 a.m., he arrived at Koronadal City to check on his men at the city police station.
He said he has already covered all the entire province in his first six days in office as police director.
One of his first order is to increase police visibility, especially at night time “to eliminate carnapping and to allay public apprehensions that South Cotabato is not safe.”
Aside from ensuring security of the province, Delfin said, he is also give importance to resolving problems regarding loose firearms and youth offenders.
“We will also give emphasis to our Pamilya Laban sa Droga program and strengthen coordination with communities for our objective to control the presence of drug,” he added.
During the meeting, Delfin confirmed that the is strict and a disciplinarian but pointed out that he disciplines his men by example.
“Showing your people that you can do what you ask them to do is of primary importance,” he said. “No official has the right to caution and order his men if he himself cannot do what he asked them to do.”
Just recently, he placed a policeman under investigation for not wearing uniform while on duty.
Delfin said his men cannot complain of him giving so much responsibilities because he himself will be actively participate in every activity. (PIA 12)


==PDRRMC renews call for vigilance in accident–prone areas==
For its Club 100 Award, NIA-12 will honor 13 irrigators associations (IA) from the national irrigation systems and for the communal irrigation systems, 19 from North Cotabato area, 9 from Sultan Kudarat, 1 from Maguindanao and 9 from Sarangani.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=55632
*Thursday, September 22, 2011
: by Dani Doguiles


“The Club 100 Award is given to IAs of national irrigation systems which has attained 100 percent collection efficiency for both wet and dry seasons with an average programmed area of 80 percent of the service area, average irrigated area for wet and dry seasons is 80 percent of the programmed area and the benefited area for dry and wet seasons is 80 percent of the irrigated area,” Bragasin explained.


KORONADAL CITY, Sept 22 (PIA) -- South Cotabato officials have renewed calls for vigilance, especially among residents living in or near identified flood-prone and landslide-prone areas.
It is also given to, “IAs of communal irrigation systems which have attained 100 percent or more Current Amortization Payment Efficiency with no back account or have fully paid their back account due.”
Provincial Administrator Isidro Janita, who also heads the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, said residents in the identified accident-prone areas should always be on the lookout because landslides and flash floods are being experienced in the province.
This renewed call for vigilance came after a flash flood incident in Polomolok town.
Fifty-six families, including 274 individuals, in Barangays Landan, Upper Klinan, and Maligo in Polomolok town were displaced when a creek overflowed Monday night.
PDRRMC incident report said 21 houses and one chapel were totally damaged and 25 houses were partially damaged. At least 6 hectares of crops and four farm animals were also lost.
Initial estimates have set the damages at P5 million.
No human casualty was reported.
Governor Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. yesterday said the provincial government has already extended food and relief assistance to the displaced families.
He also ordered the immediate relocation of the residents in the affected area, which has been identified among the high risk area.
In a recent meeting of the regional council, Pingoy has requested the RDMMC to expedite the purchase of the relocation sites for communities living in calamity-prone areas.
He said purchase of the relocation site for affected residents in Landan area may not be difficult since the identified lot is properly titled. (PIA 12)


==P52-M vowed for planned public hospital in Surallah==
Four IAs in North Cotabato, two in South Cotabato, two in Sarangani and one in Sultan Kudarat have qualified for the Golden Star Award.
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=55459
*Wednesday, September 21, 2011
: by Dani Doguiles


Moreover, Silver Star Awards will be given to two IAs in Maguindanao and one in Sultan Kudarat.


KORONADAL CITY, Sept 21 (PIA) -- If commitments were to be counted, the provincial government of South Cotabato has at least P52 M fund for the construction of a public hospital in nearby Surralah town.
Bragasin explained that Golden Star Award is given to IAs from the national and communal irrigation systems which garnered the Highest Functionality Survey Rating (Outstanding Rating) while Silver Star Award is given to IAs from both national and communal irrigation systems with the Highest Functionality Survey Rating (Very Satisfactory Rating).
Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. in a meeting with the press this morning announced that three partners, namely: San Miguel Corporation (SMC), Department of Health (DOH), and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) have signified to finance the construction of the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital (SCPH) annex in Surallah.
Recently, Gov. Pingoy went to Metro Manila to sign a memorandum of understanding with the San Miguel Corporation for a P30-million assistance package for the province, including P15 million for the planned hospital.
While in Metro Manila, he also met with Health Secretary Enrique Ona regarding possible financial assistance under the DOH’s Health Facilities Enhancement Program.
He said Ona has committed to give the province at least P30 million. The governor is confident Sec. Ona’s promise will be realized.
While serving as the representative of South Cotabato’s Second District, Pingoy was instrumental for the release of of P23 million for the upgrading of several health facilities in the province, including that of Polomolok and Lake Sebu municipalities and SCPH.
He also announced that the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has also committed to pour in P7M for the project.
The provincial government in now complying with DILG assistant secretary for plans and programs Eubert Gutierrez’s directive to submit the project’s program plan for possible funding.
Meanwhile, a five-hectare lot where the annex hospital will be established has been identified by the local government unit of Surallah.
Gov. Pingoy said the provincial government expects Surallah Mayor Romulo Solivio to hand in the deed of donation anytime soon.
He said he has already directed Dr. Rogelio Aturdido Jr., chief of the Integrated Provincial Health Office to fast track the making of the hospitals design.
Construction of the hospital is expected to start in the first quarter of 2012 for a target soft opening of the health facility in the second or third quarter.
Gov. Pingoy added that this government hospital that will cater to patients in the Upper Valley area, including the municipalities of Surallah, Sto. Nino, Lake Sebu, Norala, T’boli and Banga, the provincial hospital in Koronadal City will surely be decongested.
SCPH has a capacity for 220 beds but the number of patients served here reaches as many as 240 to 320. About 24 percent of the patients are from the Upper Valley area. (PIA 12)


==Transport strike in South Cotabato fizzles out==
Buluan-Pigcawayan Irrigators Association, Inc. of North Cotabato will receive a special award for being a Hall of Famer in the Highest Functionality Survey Rating.  
*Source: http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2011/09/20/transport-strike-in-south-cotabato-fizzles-out/
* Tuesday| September 20, 2011
: by  Bong S. Sarmiento


This year’s celebration theme is “Samahang NIA, IA at LGU Patuloy na Pagtibayin Upang Makamtan Sapat na Pagkain ng Pamayanan.”


KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/19 September) — With most public utility vehicles still plying their routes here and in the other municipalities of South Cotabato, police assessed the transport strike organized by militant groups to have fizzled out in the province and neighboring areas.
According to the agency’s website, NIA-12 “formally started its operation as a region on April 10, 1978 with its office based at Villarica, Midsayap, North Cotabato.  
The number of tricycles, the main mode of transport in this regional seat of government of Southwestern Mindanao or Region 12, was just the same as in normal days.
Buses and passenger vans also plied the routes in various parts of the province and other neighboring and far destinations.
Except for the town of Polomolok, the transport strike called by the Pinag-isang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON) was also not felt in the nine other municipalities of South Cotabato, the police monitored.
“Generally, the transport strike fizzled out all over South Cotabato. Flow of traffic in the streets was normal,” said Supt. Jemuel Siason, spokesperson of the provincial police command.
In Polomolok, Siason said there was a “slightly significant participation” among the drivers because of organized militant groups there.
In this city, also the capital of South Cotabato, government vehicles were put on standby just in case the strike would cause transport paralysis, he added.
Around 50 protesters from various militant groups gathered in front of the Iglesia ni Kristo along the national highway early morning but later on left the area, with a few later seen huddling beside the round ball area.
No barricades were set up in the roads in this city unlike years before to force public and private transport drivers to join the protest. Also, no passengers were seen stranded in the streets or in the terminals.
Ryan Lariba, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Socsksargen chapter spokesman, said that various militant groups kicked off their protest actions as early as 5 a.m. in parts of the region.
“We want to send a message to our government that our people, especially the drivers, are hurting from the series of fuel price increases,” he told reporters.
Lariba said they were demanding for a rollback as the prices of fuel were overpriced by at least P9/liter, citing a study by their group.
The protesters also called on the government to scrap the oil deregulation law as well as remove the value added tax on fuel products. (Bong Sarmiento/MindaNews)


==Tourism boost==
“That time, it was composed of the provinces of North Cotabato, Maguindanao, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat. It had only four operational national irrigation systems, namely: Libungan, Kabacan, Mlang, and Malasila River Irrigation Systems.”
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/334876/tourism-boost
*September 19, 2011, 3:37pm
: by Mindanao Newsbits


At present, NIA 12 covers the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sarangani, and Sultan Kudarat as well as the province of Maguindanao in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).


KORONADAL CITY, Philippines (PIA) – A recent significant development could spell a major push for South Cotabato’s bid to become a primary tourist destination. Governor Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. recently announced that beginning September 23, management of the internal security operations (ISO) will officially be transferred to the provincial government from the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion.
Among the guests expected to attend the awarding ceremony are North Cotabato 1st District Rep. Jesus N. Sacdalan, DA-12 Regional Executive Director Amalia J. Datukan, North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Mendoza, Midsayap Mayor Manuel M. Rabara, Libungan Mayor Manuel T, Dela Serna, Pigcawayan Mayor Roberto S. Blasé and Northern Kabuntalan Mayor Datu Ramil B. Dilangalen, Al Haj and Mr. Gerardo R. Barrientos, president of the Regional Confederation of Irrigators Association president. (DED-PIA 12)


We have been promoting tourism in the province but we have been hindered by the perception that the province has a problem with peace and order,” he said, “the transfer of ISO to the provincial government is proof that South Cotabato is indeed peaceful.”


==Mindanao gets P157-M tourism dev’t budget==
*Source: http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2011/09/18/mindanao-gets-p157-m-tourism-dev%E2%80%99t-budget/
*Sunday| September 18, 2011
: by  Bong S. Sarmiento




KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/17 September) —  The Tourism Infrastructure Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) has allocated P157 million to further develop the tourism industry in Mindanao, Sec. Luwalhati Antonino, chair of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), said.
TIEZA, formerly the Philippine Tourism Authority, increased its annual allocation for Mindanao, which in the last 10 years only received an average of seven to 10 percent budget share from the agency, Antonino announced at the recently concluded 20th Mindanao Business Conference in Pagadian City.
“I am happy to report that in our recent meeting with the TIEZA board, Mindanao got a hefty share of 35% from the Php448.84-million TIEZA priority infrastructure projects this year,” Antonino said in a statement.
Antonino who sits as member of the TIEZA board of directors also said that Region 9 or the Zamboanga Peninsula got two of the 29 approved projects for Mindanao namely the development of Pulacan falls in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur and the construction of the Cogon Eco-tourism development project in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte.
She added that MinDA shall continue in its efforts to secure financing support for the Mindanao initiatives by engaging more public-private partnerships while advocating for a fair share in the national budget.
“Unlike before when we only had a measly share of their (TIEZA) budget, Mindanao is now given attention,”  Antonino said, adding that tourism has a multiplier effect in terms of job creation.
Mindanao tourism industry officials welcome the increased budget, their clamor for a decade now.
“TIEZA has made an unprecedented move to develop a strong backbone for tourism in Mindanao,” Art Boncato, Department of Tourism (DOT) regional director for Region 11, was quoted in the same statement.
Boncato said tourism is “a major economic driver for Mindanao.”
The island-region’s potential for nature-based and cultural tourism is one of the best in the country and that “strategic infrastructure support ensures its sustainability,” he said.
The advocacy for Mindanao’s equitable share in the national budget is one of the strategies identified towards achieving the overall peace and development goals for Mindanao in the next 20 years.
According to the Mindanao 2020 Peace and Development Framework Plan (Mindanao 2020), tourism development “can be a win-win for the economy and environment and must be pursued vigorously through policy reform and public investments. “
The promotion of the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia- Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) as premier ecotourism destination also provides substantial growth potential in Mindanao tourism.
In the medium term (2011-2016), DOT has taken a cluster approach in pursuing tourism promotion, with nine defined clusters for Mindanao highlighting various types of tourism assets.
The clusters include the Surigao-Dinagat islands, Cagayan de Oro-Tangub coast and hinterland, Zamboanga Peninsula and the Bukidnon highlands, among others. (Bong Sarmiento/MindaNews)


==South Cotabato sets MOOE budget cuts due to reduction of IRA share==
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=373095
*September 16, 2011, 1:41 pm
: by  (PNA) LAP/AVE/HST




GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Sept. 16 (PNA) – The provincial government of South Cotabato is cutting back on its maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE) by next year due to the reduction of its annual Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) share from the national government.


Elvira Rafael, South Cotabato provincial treasurer, said the provincial government received a notice that it will get an IRA share of P751 million for next year, which is down by P36 million from this year’s P787.8 million allotment.


For the entire province, which is composed of 11 towns and lone city, she said the total IRA share for next year will be reduced to P2.1 billion or a P104.16 million drop from this year’s P2.21 billion.


Rafael said the provincial government, which is currently preparing its 2012 budget, is implementing cuts in its MOOE budget for next year due to its reduced IRA share.


“We will not be cutting our budget for basic services but only for the MOOE. This includes purchases for office supplies, gasoline, oil and lubricants, electricity and water consumptions, among others,” she said.
==South Cotabato fetes scholar graduates==
*Source: http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/46390-South-Cotabato-fetes-scholar-graduates.html
*Tuesday, April 17. 2012
:by (PNA)
DCT/LOR/AVE/HST


Rafael also said the third tranche of the salary increase for provincial government workers next year will not be affected by the budget cut.


The IRA share of local government units (LGUs) represent 40 percent of the national internal revenue taxes collected in the third fiscal year before the current fiscal year.
GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The provincial government of South Cotabato recently honored at least 115 student-beneficiaries of its Kabugwason Paglaum Scholarship Program (KPSP) who have graduated from various colleges and universities in the area.
Alex Basco, KPSP executive officer, said the local government feted the graduates in recognition of their hardships and perseverance in pursuing their studies in the past several years.
He said the scholars received certificates of completion for completing the degree and non-degree programs they pursued.
Of this year’s graduates, seven were from batch three and 26 from batch four of the degree category while 75 were from the sixth batch of the non-degree category.
“Most of the graduates under the degree category took up courses in education, nursing, business administration, accountancy and engineering. For the non-degree category, most of the scholars took up computer-related courses,” Basco said.
The official said the scholarship program has so far produced 41 four-year degree holders and 128 non-degree or ladderized program graduates.
Basco said they have advised the program’s incoming scholars to take up courses or programs that have high employment demands such as mechanical engineering and electronics, agriculture, medical technology and pharmacy, among others.
He said they dissuaded them from taking up courses that have been placed on moratorium by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), among them the nursing degree.
The provincial government, which has institutionalized the scholarship program, has set aside an annual budget of P15 million for its implementation.
Such budget is on top of its P9 million annual allocation for the grant-in-aid program for tertiary, secondary and elementary students as well as for short or modular courses for the out-of-school youths.
Aside from the KPSP graduates, the local government also gave recognition to its six scholars who have completed their two-year Midwifery ladderized course at the University of the Philippines-Manila School of Health Sciences extension campus in Koronadal City.
As part of the program, the six graduates will be taking a brief break to serve their communities before proceeding to the nursing course and medical degree later on.  


The IRA sources are income tax; estate and donors’ tax; value-added tax; other percentage taxes; excise taxes; documentary stamp taxes; and such other taxes that may be imposed and collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue.


Rafael said Koronadal City, which is a component city of South Cotabato, is getting an IRA cut of around P20 million after its total share of P425.59 million this year will further reduce to P405.2 million next year.


The municipality of Sto. Nino, which received an IRA share of 57.12 million this year, posted the least cut for next year with only P2.45 million.


Rafael said the huge reduction in Koronadal City’s IRA share for next year was triggered by the earlier conversion of 16 municipalities in the country into cities.


==British environmental experts dispute EIA study of South Cotabato mine operator==
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=372800
*September 15, 2011, 4:29 pm
: by  (PNA) DCT/FFC/AVE/RSS




KORONADAL CITY, Sept. 15 (PNA) -– Two British environmental experts are set to arrive in this city next week to contest the results of the newly-completed environmental impact assessment (EIA) study of foreign-backed mining firm Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) for its proposed large-scale copper and gold mining project in the tri-boundaries of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Davao del Sur provinces.


Rene Pamplona, advocacy officer of the Social Action Center of the Diocese of Marbel, said Thursday the British experts were invited by local Catholic Church leaders to attend the scheduled presentation of SMI’s EIA study on Sept. 23 in this city.


He said they are planning to mobilize at least 5,000 people to fill the South Cotabato gymnasium during SMI’s EIA presentation.


“The two foreign experts will present on behalf of the anti-mining advocates. A 3-D [three dimensional] map will also be presented involving the affected communities,” he said.


Pamplona identified the environmental experts as Clive Wicks and Robert Goodland, author of “Philippines: Mining or Food?” a book report that highlight the threats that mining poses to food security.


The report, which examined six mining sites in the country, including the Tampakan project, was a follow-up to “Mining in the Philippines: Concerns and Conflicts (January 2007),” which documented the negative effects of mining on the environment and peoples’ livelihood.
==No extension for filing of ITR – BIR==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611334554779
*Monday 16th of April 2012
:by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)  


The latter report was based on the fact-finding mission led by Hon. Clare Short MP, a member of the British Parliament and former UK Minister for International Development.


In February 2008, the UK based Working Group on Mining in the Philippines (WGMP), commissioned the two environmental experts to visit the Philippines in order to investigate more fully, document and map some key sites targeted for mining.


Goodland worked for the World Bank Group for 23 years, as senior environmental advisor. Wicks worked in the corporate sector for many years and then for the Worldwide Fund for Nature and served as the vice-chair of IUCN-Commission on Environmental, Economic and Social Policy (IUCN-CEESP). IUCN stands for the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato , April 16 (PIA) -- Taxpayers only have until 12 midnight today, April 16, to file their income tax returns (ITR) and their will be no extension, an official of the Bureau of Internal Revenue here said.  


South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. said the public forum was meant to hear the side of those against the Tampakan project, particularly their take on the EIA study of Sagittarius Mines.
Aileen Punzalan, assessment section chief of BIR Revenue District 111 (Koronadal City/South Cotabato), said, like other BIR offices across the region, their office will be open from 8:00 am in the morning until 12:00 midnight to cater to taxpayers who have waited for the deadline to file their respective ITRs.  


“Hopefully, this will guide the Sangguniang Panlalawigan with regards to the request to review the environment code that bans open-pit mining,” he said.
BIR RD 111, along with other revenue district offices under BIR Revenue Region No. 18, last month began an information drive to urge taxpayers to pay their taxes ahead of the April 16 deadline.  


==Prov’l LGU, charity group holds grand surgical mission for IPs, indigents==
“But we expect overcrowding in our office today,” she said, “which is why we extend office hours until midnight.”
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=54086
*Wednesday, September 14, 2011
:by PIA Press Release


This, she said, is also the subject of a directive from BIR Central office to all revenue district offices to hold office until midnight to be able to accommodate all taxpayers.


“Commissioner Kim Henares has already announced that there will be no extension of the filing of the ITR,” Punzalan pointed out.


KORONADAL CITY, Sept. 14 (PIA) -- Hundred of indigents, indigenous peoples, and retirees who need surgical procedures but are unable to avail of medical services for reasons of financial incapacity and lack of services can avail of free surgical services in a five-day surgical mission here starting September 25. “The Maharlika Charity Foundation Inc., (MCFI) together with provincial government of South Cotabato and the Koronadal Lodge 209 of Free and Accepted Masons will conduct a surgical mission at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center from September 25 to 29,” board member Dr. Ervin Luntao announced yesterday. He said among the conditions that will be operated free of charge during the medical mission include cleft palate, cataract (including pterygium), stradismus or cross-eyes, goiter, hernia among children five years old or younger, and minor cysts. Dental services will also be available. “This is the first major surgical mission in South Cotabato under the management of Gov. Arthur “Dodo” Y. Pingoy Jr.” he said. Dr. Rizal Aportadera, president of MCFI, said the medical mission in Koronadal will be their 49th mission in Mindanao and their first in South Cotabato. “We are giving surgical services exclusively for indigents who cannot afford surgical operations and indigenous peoples who lack opportunities to avail of costly procedures,” Dr. Aportadera said. “We are also giving the same services to retirees in government and private sectors.” MCFI was created in 1973 to give free medical treatment for the poor. Its office is located at J.P Cabaguio Avenue, Davao City. MCFI started conducting medical missions in 2000. “Our objective is to give specialized and rehabilitative operations,” he added. “Specialized because the doctors we bring in the medical missions are all specialists and rehabilitative because the patients’ defects and deformities are corrected and they given opportunities to be restore their confidence and become productive citizens,” Dr. Aportadera added. For the medical mission in South Cotabato, MCFI will be bringing at least 35 specialists, including eye doctors, plastic surgeons, anaesthesiologists, and general surgeons along with other medical staff including as nurses, medical technologists and others. He said, on regular medical missions they serve at least 60 to 100 surgical patients each for eye operations, cleft palate correction, and minor surgeries. More patients are served in dental services. “We are very glad that the Maharlika Charity Foundation has chosen Cotabato for their surgical mission,” Vice Gov. Elmo Tolosa said. Vice Gov. Tolosa’s office is among the offices listing names of possible patients who will undergo surgical procedures. Other offices where interested individuals can go to be listed are Office of the Governor, Office of Board Member Luntao, South Cotabato Provincial Hospital, Radio Mindanao Network and Bombo Radyo Koronadal. Listing of patients in these offices is still on-going. Candidates for surgery will be gathered by the provincial government for a briefing on September 20. An advance team of the MCFI will conduct initial screening and laboratory examinations on September 25. Actual operations will start at September 26. “Screening and of candidates lab tests are necessary to provide maximum safety for all procedures, especially among children and the elderlies,” Aportadera said. Medicines for post-operation treatment will also be provided free. Patients who will develop complications after the operation are also assured of continuous medical care from MCFI doctors. (PIA 12)
In 2011, BIR in Soccsksargen Region collected a total of P4.4 billion and surpassed its annual target of P4.167 billion by 6.1 percent or P254.09 million.  


==SouthCot worried over bird flu==
BIR RR-18 regional director Rozil Lozares confirmed that 70 percent of these come from the taxes withheld from the income of local employees.  
*Source: http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2011/09/13/southcot-worried-over-bird-flu/
*Tuesday| September 13, 2011
:By Allen V. Estabillo


This year has started well for the regional revenue with the five revenue district offices collecting P794.225 M or 12.11 percent higher that their period target of P708.463 M.


GENERAL SANTOS CITY (MindaNews/12 September) – Veterinary personnel in South Cotabato province have intensified their monitoring against the possible entry of H5N1 Avian Influenza or bird flu virus in the province following the resurgence of the deadly disease in several parts of Southeast Asia.
Considering this performance of the revenue district office, Lozares said, exceeding the P5.126 billion 2012 target is most likely.
Dr. Raul Teves, Veterinarian IV of the South Cotabato Provincial Veterinary Office, said they have launched a series of random tests on chickens, ducks and other poultry species in several parts of the province for possible infection of the H5N1 Avian Influenza virus.
He said they were specifically testing six blood samples every week of various poultry animals from selected areas of the province.
“This is a precautionary measure since the province is adjacent to the areas that are considered as highly vulnerable for the possible entry of bird flu,” he said in a radio interview.
Teves said Region 12 or Southwestern Mindanao’s Avian Influenza Task Force had identified the coastal areas of nearby Sarangani province and several wetlands in the region that have been drawing migratory birds from the neighboring countries as possible entry points of the disease.
He said the task force is mainly concerned with the possible entry of infected birds and poultry species from Indonesia through Sarangani’s coastal areas.
The national government earlier activated task forces against bird flu from the national down to the municipal levels to prevent its entry into the country, which has remained free of the disease.
As part of such mandate, Teves said they have linked up with local government units of the province’s 10 municipalities and lone city to assist their monitoring activities.
Avian Influenza, which has already affected 10 countries in Asia, mainly infects poultry species and has already resulted in mass deaths and destruction of chickens and other poultry such as ducks, the World Health Organization (WHO) noted.
But it said the infected poultry can transmit the virus to humans and lead to severe disease that may result to death.
As of August 9, the WHO already recorded five confirmed deaths due to bird flu in Indonesia out of the seven positive cases that were reported in the area this year. Seven bird flu deaths were also recorded this year in Cambodia.
Teves said the task force has been also monitoring the migratory birds that have been flocking to a bird sanctuary in Barangay Baras in Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat.
The city government of Tacurong, which has been developing the bird sanctuary as a tourist destination, reported that around 7,700 migratory birds, mostly herons, have been flocking to the area every year.
For their part, Teves said they have doubled their watch on palay farms near Tacurong City that are frequented by mobile duck growers.
He said local duck growers usually lease palay farms in some parts of the province for several weeks after the harvest season, which start every late August.
Owing to this, Teves said they have scheduled the random tests for bird flu this month in palay-producing areas in Tantangan and Norala towns as well as in Koronadal City. (Allen V. Estabillo / MindaNews)


==South Cotabato has new police provincial director==
==DA releases P6.9-M farm equipment to South Cotabato farmers==
*Source: http://magazine.southcotabato.org/2011/09/south-cotabato-has-new-police.html
*Source: http://positivenewsmedia.com/blog/2012/04/da-releases-p6-9-m-farm-equipment-to-south-cotabato-farmers/
*Monday, September 12, 2011
* Apr 15, 2012
: by dani doguiles, news, pia 12, press release, south cotabato
:by (PNA
FFC/jfm/AVE/HST






Outgoing South Cotabato Police Provincial Director P/SSupt. Nilo Wong has confirmed that he will be turning over the leadership of the provincial police force to the new director.
GENERAL SANTOS City, April 15 (PNA) – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has released some P6.9 million worth of farm equipment to farmers’ groups in South Cotabato in a bid to further improve the area’s agricultural production.
Amalia Datukan, DA Region 12 director, said the assistance was part of the ongoing implementation of the agency’s rice mechanization and post harvest facility assistance program, which was availed by irrigators associations and cooperative in the area.
Datukan said it was also in line with the Agri Pinoy food staple sufficiency program pushed by DA Secretary Proceso Alcala.
“President Benigno S. Aquino III had endorsed this program as one of his administration’s top priorities,” she said.
Under the program, Datukan said South Cotabato received an allocation of 32 hand tractor units worth P3.95 million; 10 units of rice threshers worth P1.13 million; one unit of four-wheel drive tractor worth P761,117; and, nine units of multi-purpose drying pavement worth P1.125 million.
The recipients were the Parbangon Irrigators Association of Barangay San Felipe in Tantangan; farmers group Komatiku of Barangay Sto. Nino in Koronadal City; Lower Tampakan Creek Irrigators Association of Barangay Concepcion in Koronadal City; SANISCA Irrigators Association Inc. of Barangay San Isidro in Koronadal City; PAGMACE Irrigators Association of Barangay Cabuling in Tantangan; Magic Flower Irrigators Association of Barangay GPS in Koronadal City; BINTIKU multi-purpose cooperative of Barangay Dajay in Surallah; SOCOSEPCO of Koroandal City;
The Rice Field Irrigators Association of Barangay Carpenter Hill in Koronadal City; Country Folks Irrigators Assocaition of Bo. 3 in Banga; Modern Farmer Irrigators Association of Barangay San Isidro in Koronadal City; Siok Communal Irrigators Association of Koornadal City; Cabuling Agricultural Multi-Purpose Cooperative of Barangay Cabuling in Tantangan; and, San Felipe Irrigators Association of Barangay San Felipe in Tantangan are also beneficiaries.
Datukan said the beneficiaries availed of the farm equipment through a cost-sharing scheme.
She said the agency shouldered 85 percent of the costs while the beneficiaries contributed 15 percent as counterpart.
The DA’s share for the total cost of the farm equipment was P6.09 million while the recipients’ share was P877,787.
Datukan said the newly-released farm equipment was part of the P20 million worth of farm machineries earlier allocated for Region 12.
Aside from South Cotabato, she said the agency also released 33 hand tractors, 11 threshers and two four-wheel drive tractors to beneficiaries in North Cotabato.
They have allocated 34 hand tractors, 10 threshers and two four-wheel drive tractors to Sultan Kudarat as well as nine hand tractors and four threshers to Sarangani Province.


Wong, who will be retiring on September 26, said he has already received instructions for the turnover ceremonies on September 14, to P/SSupt. Randolf Delfin.
==Motorcycles accidents on the rise in South Cotabato, neighboring areas==
*Source: http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/46284-Motorcycles-accidents-on-the-rise-in-South-Cotabato,-neighboring-areas.html
*Saturday, April 14. 2012
:by  (PNA)
FFC/AVE/AC


In an interview with a local media, Wong said he is very grateful to local officials, PNP personnel and residents of the province for the support they accorded him in his term as police provincial director.


Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., in a meeting with the press last month openly declared his decision to support Delfin as the new head of the provincial police office.


He said, although he does not know Delfin personally, the latter's reputation as a strict and respected leader has been well-known to him and the local police officials who have highly recommended his transfer to the province.
GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Health authorities have expressed alarm over the rising road or vehicular accidents involving motorcycles in South Cotabato province and the neighboring areas.
Dr. Rogelio Aturdido, South Cotabato health officer, said their records showed that 256 road accidents had occurred in the province during the first three months of the year.
He said 211 cases involved single motorcycles, 22 tricycles while the rest concerned four-wheeled vehicles.
He said the victims comprised 218 drivers, 109 passengers and 87 bystanders who were either killed or sustained serious injuries.
Of the injured victims, 153 sustained abrasions, 68 with lacerations and 17 with bone fractures.
“The trend is currently going up and what is alarming here is that most of the drivers involved in these accidents were under the influence of liquor or alcohol,” Aturdido said.
The official said 103 cases or 64 percent of the recorded road accidents in the province in the last three months took place in Koronadal City, South Cotabato’s capital and regional seat of Region 12 or the Soccsksargen Region.
He said 52 road accidents were recorded in the city in January followed by 21 in February.
In the first two weeks of March, Aturdido said the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital already recorded a total of 30 accidents in the area.
He said reckless driving, over speeding, distraction from cellular phones and substance abuses were among the main causes of accidents that involved teenage drivers.
Late last month, five people were killed while two others were injured when a multicab passenger van collided with a trailer truck along the national highway in Koronadal City.
To help address the problem, Aturdido said they have sought assistance from the Department of Interior and Local Government to ensure the strict enforcement of road safety regulations in the area.
He said they have also linked up with the Regional Development Council’s social development committee for the conduct of orientation-seminars on proper driving behavior among teen drivers in the area.


Gov. Pingoy said he prefers the turnover ceremonies to be done earlier than September 14 so that Delfin can begin implementing measures to put a stop to the recent spate of carnapping with homicide cases in Koronadal City and other other municipalities in the province that has alarmed officials here.
==Shutdown of major dams in So. Cotabato to last only 3 months -- NIA==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611334297283
*Friday 13th of April 2012
:by  (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


Police Regional Director CSupt. Benjardo Mantele said he is likely to give in to Gov. Pingoy's request since Delfin's official appointment as the provincial police's head started on September 1. (PIA 12)


==NFA intensifies local rice procurement==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r12&id=53608
*Sunday, September 11, 2011
:by Dani Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 13 (PIA) -- Shutdown of one of Soccsksargen region’s largest irrigation system will push through as planned starting May 1 but the National Irrigation Administration Office here announced that the closure would be shorter than what was originally planned.


In January, NIA-South Cotabato chief Engr. Ramon Bugacia and provincial agriculturist Reynaldo announced that the two dams of the Ala River Irrigation System (RIS) could be closed until end of August or September for major repairs intended to restore the crop watering system’s efficiency.


KORONADAL CITY, Sept 11 (PIA) -- South Cotabato's National Food Authority will intensify procurement of produce from local rice farmers this week.
Yesterday, in an interview with a radio station here, Engr. Bugacia said, “NIA has made adjustments with the construction schedule” after a series of consultations with affected irrigators’ associations, Department of Agriculture – 12, provincial and municipal agriculture offices, and other stakeholders.  
Angelina Lucena, assistant manager of NFA South Cotabato said, besides the continuous buying of palay in Koronadal City, they will start accepting deliveries in two additional sites in the upper valley area starting September.
NFA South Cotabato has already rented one warehouse in Norala and another in Surallah towns for the produce bought from the two municipalities and neighboring places.
She said the procurement team and the warehouses will be in full operational capacity this week to achieve their target of 168,000 bags by the end of December 2011.
NFA buys palay at P17.40 per kilo from farmers and P17.70 from accredited farmer associations and cooperatives.
Prevailing buying prices of commercial traders here range from P15 to P15.50 only.
Lucena added measures to prevent unscrupulous commercial traders from exploiting the program exclusively for farmers and their organizations have been put in place.
Among these control measures are strict implementation of documentation requirements, verification processes, random checking and many others.
Officials of NFA South Cotabato have also repeatedly appealed to farmers in the province not to allow traders to use them as conduits of illegal activities.
She said only the legitimate farmers and their organizations should be able to avail of the higher price the government offers for their produce.
This year, South Cotabato receives no allocation from imported rice but NFA and agricultural officials here are confident local production will be more than sufficient to supply local requirements. (PIA 12)


==SouthCot set to distribute anti-dengue traps==
“So from the original plan of four months, total shutdown (of the operations of Ala RIS) has been reduced to three months,”
*Source: http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2011/08/31/southcot-set-to-distribute-anti-dengue-traps/
*Wednesday| August 31, 2011
:By Allen V. Estabillo


KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/30 August) – The South Cotabato health office is set to distribute 2,500 ovicidal/larvicidal (O/L) mosquito trap system to fight dengue even as cases in the province showed a drop in the first seven months of the year, an official said. Dr. Rogelio Aturdido Jr., provincial health officer, said the OL mosquito trap distribution was part of the Department of Science and Technology-Region 12′s commitment to curb the deadly disease, which is spearheaded by the Department of Health. “Local government units should help the DOST and the DOH in spreading the importance of the mosquito trap technology,” he said, adding that beneficiaries should also support the project otherwise the trap systems would just become breeding grounds for dengue-carrying mosquitoes. The solution in the trap system should be replaced regularly because they are only good for seven to 10 days, Aturdido said. Polomolok town has been considered a dengue hotspot as cases have been monitored also in this city and in Tampakan municipality, the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (PESU) reported. PESU has recorded 358 dengue cases from January to July this year, down 77 percent from the 1,615 recorded for the same period last year. For the dengue cases in the first seven months of this year, 169 or 47 percent were from Polomolok town, it added, noting that a four-year-old victim from Barangay Pagalungan died recently. The DOST-12 recently launched the OL trap system in Southwestern Mindanao, which according to regional director Zenaida Hadji Raof Laidan, was among the regions in the country with alarming dengue cases since last year based on the records of the DOH in Region 12. Southwestern Mindanao covers the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. Laidan said that 8,000 OL trap systems have been distributed so far, and that more will be given as the need arises. To also effectively lick the disease, Laidan stressed the need to always maintain a clean surrounding. Nuna Almanzor, DOST’s Industrial Technology and Development Institute (ITDI) director, said the OL trap system is a simple and cheap device that attracts dengue-carrying mosquitoes. The technology for OL trap system developed by DOST-ITDI consists of a black tin can (plastic can as substitute), a lawanit paddle (1” x 6.5”) and the organic solution that lures Aedes aegypti mosquitoes to lay eggs in the paddle and eventually kills the eggs and larvae in the process. This simple kit costs about 20 pesos aside from the one peso for every pack of pellet. Aedes mosquitoes attack only during daytime. Almanzor said the national DOST and DOH offices have forged a partnership for the initial distribution of 500,000 OL mosquito traps across the country.
The two dams of Ala RIS, namely: Dam 1 in Colonggolo, Surallah in South Cotabato and Dam 2 in Bai Sirafinang, Bagumbayan in Sultan Kudarat, have a combined coverage area of 12,046 hectares.
“The DOH wanted as many OL traps to be distributed across the country,” she said.
 
She said the Department of Education had also approached the DOST to help them curb the incidence of dengue cases in schools. (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)
He said, adjustments were made considering the effect of the total shutdown of the irrigation system on the livelihood of the farm families who will lose water supply while the dams are out of operations. According to a report from DA-12, at least 8,850 families are being served by the Ala RIS.
 
Bugacia explained the dams need to the totally shut down effective May 1 until July 31 because major repair and rehabilitation works will focus on the main diversions (dams) as well as the main canals.
 
He added, some repair works that would not require closure of the dams have begun.
 
Data from NIA indicated that P138,225,000 has been allocated by the national government for the rehabilitation of the Ala RIS.
 
“This is the first time that such amount was allotted to a project NIA-South Cotabato,” he said. Previously, he added, they only received P3 million to P6 million for irrigation development projects.
 
This would also be the first time that Ala RIS undergoes repair since its opening in 1972.
 
Repair works in the 40-year old dam, according to Bugacia, would cover protection works on the dams, repair of the mechanical systems that take care of the closing and opening of the water gates, rehabilitation of the main canals, and construction of additional structures and check structures that would extend the coverage area of the irrigation system.
 
In an earlier interview, provincial agriculturist Legaste assured residents and farmers of South Cotabato that the shutdown of the Ala RIS will result in food shortage in the province.
 
He explained that farmers in the province were able to immediately replant in January and February which assures of an earlier than expected harvest.
 
Also, of the 9,000 hectares in South Cotabato that would lose water supply, about 2,000 hectares can still be cultivated because they have alternative water sources.
 
Contingency plans have also been prepared for those who could not plant rice; these include planting of corn in coordination with hybrid corn companies as well as temporarily shifting to other crops such as watermelon, cantaloupe, and vegetables like okra, squash, upo, patola, and ampalaya.
 
Bugacia said rehabilitative works of Ala RIS are also set for implementation next year, but these would not require closure of the dams.
 
==Local officials expect positive results from power summit==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611334214874
*Thursday 12th of April 2012
:by  (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)  
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 12 (PIA) -- Officials in South Cotabato hope tomorrow’s Energy Summit in Davao City would end with solutions that would address the power crisis in Mindanao.
 
South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., Koronadal City Mayor Peter Miguel, and South Cotabato 1 Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO 1) General Manager Santiago Tudio said they will be attending the summit.
 
South Cotabato First District Representative, Daisy Avance-Fuentes has earlier announced in a radio interview that she will join the event.
 
Gov. Pingoy said, the presence of President Benigno Aquino III during the summit is a positive indication since he could personally join the discussion of the Mindanao energy shortage as well as the proposals to address the power crisis.
 
“Several proposals and measures will be presented. Hopefully, we will be able to take these up with the president,” he said.
 
In preparation for the summit, Mayor Miguel has asked city information officer Judith Amido, who also sits as a member of SOCOTECO 1’s board of directors for an in-depth discussion of the power situation particularly in South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.
 
He, however, pointed out that he has reservations regarding the suggestion of former Pangasinan Fifth District Representative Mark Conjuangco to put up a nuclear power plant in Lake Sebu.
 
“I did some research and talked with some Japanese regarding nuclear power plants,” he said.
 
“I am not in favor of the proposal,” he said, “because even Japan, which is a First World Country, has experienced radiation leaks due to the recent earthquake and tsunami.”
 
He said lives of millions of Filipinos could be compromised if a disaster like that in Japan occurs in the Philippines.
 
Meanwhile, GM Tudio said, SOCOTECO 1 supports the move of the Association of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperative (AMRECO) to oppose the privatization of the Pulangi Hydropower plants.
 
AMRECO with its 33 member electric cooperative plans to submit a position paper demanding transparency so that the public may know of the real situation regarding the availability of energy supply, especially the contracted capacity from the power generators of the National Power Corporation.
 
MinDA chair Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, announced everything is set for the Mindanao Energy Summit where 300 to 350 delegates are expected to attend.
 
MinDA and the Department of Energy spearhead the summit.
 
“The Power Summit accords us the opportunity to discuss the real Mindanao power situation and the specific short to long term measures that stakeholders wanted acted on jointly by the government and the industry players,”Antonino said.  
 
Antonino said that no less than President Aquino has sought that proposed measures for resolving the Mindanao power problem and putting in place of long term action plan should form part of the shared consensus of the Mindanao stakeholders.  
 
“This is being done for and by the Mindanawons who have a direct stake on the Mindanao power issue and what needs to be done, and the President will be there to see to it that the proposed measures are thoroughly studied and doables carried through,” she added.  
 
Among those expected to take part in the one-day summit are heads and representatives of all electric cooperatives in Mindanao, distribution utilities, generation companies, governors and city mayors, Mindanao lawmakers, business and industry sectors, non-government organizations, civil society groups and consumer advocates.
 
Antonino said the Summit format was designed to provide opportunity for the key sectors and stakeholder representatives to present their respective issues and recommendations for way forward actions.
 
The President is expected to respond with specific policy directives.
 
Earlier today, PCOO Secretary Sonny Coloma confirmed President Aquino will attend and preside the summit.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
==Education remedies ignorance, poverty – VP Binay==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611334120313
*Wednesday 11th of April 2012
:by  (Dani Doguiles and Roderick Beñez/PIA 12)
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 11 (PIA) -- Education remains the best way out of poverty and ignorance, said Vice President Jejomar Binay.
 
Vice President Binay was in Kabacan, North Cotabato yesterday as guest of honor during state-run University of Southern Mindanao’s 66th commencement exercises where he addressed 1,932 candidates for graduation.
 
“Kung nais nating maiahon sa kahirapan at kamangmangan, edukasyon nag-iisang tanging paraan,” he told the graduates.
 
“Ang lahat ay kailangang magsumikap. Ngunit kung ang walang sawang pagsusumikap ay sasamahan ng isang mahusay na edukasyon, labis na lumalawak ang nararating ang isang tao,” he said.
 
He also told graduates that finishing their courses comes with responsibilities to their families, the university and fellowmen.
 
“Ang tunay na saysay ng inyong pag-aaral ay nababatay sa kakayahan ninyong gamitin ang inyong dunong upang maglunsad ng inyong kakayahan,” he said.
 
Denying their service, he added, would make peace and progress elusive for themselves and the nation.
 
To be able to serve their families and the country, a graduate need not seek for remarkable opportunities, Vice President Binay pointed out.
 
For instance, he said, graduates could start by helping their parents send their younger siblings to school.
 
“Your challenge now is no longer defined by examinations, term papers, and reports,” he reminded the graduates, “You are now called to build your lives.”
 
Other guests of the graduation ceremony, which was led by USM president Dr. Jesus Antonio Derije, included North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, local officials, and the university’s Board of Regents.
 
USM is considered one of the leading state universities in Mindanao and the entire country.
 
It has achieved excellence in agriculture education and most of its programs have achieved either Level II or Level III accreditation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), Inc.
 
Training of students here does not only focus on instructions but also incorporates the aspects of research, extension and production geared toward producing quality professionals who are globally competitive.  
 
It is well-known to provide top-grade education in the fields of agriculture; arts and science; education; engineering and computing; human ecology and food sciences; industrial technology; business, development economics and management; public health; veterinary medicine; and Middle East and Asian studies.
 
==DOST-12 rolls off “Agham at Teknolohiya sa Syudad”==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611334037184
*Tuesday 10th of April 2012
:by  (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/OLAbo/ DOST-12)
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 10 (PIA) -- DOST-12’s “Agham at Teknolohiya sa Siyudad” has gained ground in enhancing productivity of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Soccsksargen Region.
 
A project of the Department of Science and Technology – Region 12, Agham at Teknolohiya sa Lungsod was recently conducted separately in the cities of General Santos and Koronadal.
 
Under the project, consultancy services, labeling design development and technology needs assessment were extended to MSMEs engaged in organic fertilizer, tuna, bakery, squash turon and lumpia, and banana buchi, among others.
 
It was implemented under DOST’s umbrella program Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SET-UP) that aims to improve the productivity of small and medium industry players.
 
Summit Consultancy and Research Services, which was earlier tapped by the DOST-12 for the Manufacturing Productivity Expansion Program (MPEX), presented its findings and recommendations to improve the productivity of 15 firms identified under the program.
 
Their recommendations included acquisition or upgrading of machines, nutritional facts analysis, production lay-out improvement, and packaging or labeling design development.
 
They also recommended trainings on Good Manufacturing Practices for ten firms.
 
Other recommendations for MSMEs to undertake are energy audit, possible ultraviolet radiation, preventive maintenance, and materials management system, among others.
 
Some firms, on the other hand, have sought trainings on coconut syrup and accelerated vinegar production, bleaching and dyeing, waste management (vermi composting), and fiber extraction mechanization.
 
Other companies have developed possible linkages, such as one firm offering to supply organic fertilizers to Kablon Farms and RRR Engineering offering to fabricate stainless products for food processing companies.
 
Another one also offered to design and fabricate a sorter or conveyor for a coffee and a fiber processing ventures.
 
A technology needs assessment was likewise conducted to Juco Yummyzo Food Products and Pascual Bakery Equipment Services in Koronadal City as a pre-requisite to the availment of SET-UP assistance.
 
Dr. Zenaida P. HR Laidan, DOST-12 director, said they conducted the “Agham at Teknolohiya sa Siyudad” to support MSMEs in the region achieve higher income, generate more employment and penetrate global markets.
 
She added that such activity aims to sustain economic development in the countryside.
 
==Smc Secures Clearance To Pursue New 3,000-mw Power Projects==
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/356564/smc-secures-clearance-to-pursue-new-3000mw-power-projects
*April 9, 2012, 2:16am
:by  MYRNA M. VELASCO
 
 
 
Manila, Philippines - The power generation unit of San Miguel Corporation (SMC) has secured the go-signal of the Department of Energy (DOE) to proceed with grid impact studies (GIS) on six power projects across grids that will beef up its portfolio by additional 3,000 megawatts.
 
The GIS will have to be undertaken upon the energy department’s endorsement to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). It will determine if the proposed capacity of the project proponents can still be absorbed by the grid or if the transmission lines are capable of wheeling that capacity to the substations.
 
Based on documents culled from the energy department, SMC Global Power Holdings Corporation is proposing to construct 1,200-megawatt coal plant in Cavite; and another 600-MW coal-fired facility in Bulacan for the Luzon grid.
 
In the Visayas, SMC’s proposed greenfield power investments are 600-MW coal plant in Leyte and 150-MW coal plant in Panay. For the Mindanao grid, the company’s proposed coalfired plant ventures are 300 megawatts in Davao del Sur and, 150-MW in South Cotabato.
 
If the diversifying conglomerate is serious in pursuing all of these projects, it ought to face hurdles though in the market share caps prescribed under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) – which is equivalent to 30-percent of gridinstalled capacity; and 25-percent of national installed capacity. To date, SMC is already the biggest player in the power generation segment of the industry.
 
Documents also showed that the DOE has issued clearances to more than 30 power companies on their respective bids for GIS on proposed power projects.
 
As of end last year, the power companies allowed to proceed on their GIS include Palm Thermal Consolidated Holdings Corp. for its 100-megawatt coal power project in Iloilo; Global Business Power Corporation for 164-MW and 82-MW projects in Cebu and Iloilo; PhilNewEnergy Inc. for 40-50MW solar project in Alaminos, Pangasinan; 30-40MW solar project in Misamis Oriental and 40-50MW solar project in Davao; and Jobin-Sqm Inc. for its 100-MW Sta. Rita solar project in the Subic Bay freeport zone.
 
The others are Calamba Aero Power Corporation for a 120-170MW combined cycle power project in Calamba, Laguna; Cordillera Hydro Electric Power Corporation for its proposed 50-MW mini-hydropower project in Kapangan, Benguet; First Gen Corporation for a 300-MW midmerit power plant in Batangas; San Carlos Biopower Inc. for its 18-MW biomass facility in Negros Occidental; as well as those for Sta. Clara Power Corporation’s micro-hydropower projects in Danao, Bohol and Tinoc, Ifugao.
 
It has also been specified in the documents that the GIS clearance for the 600-MW coal power plant of GN Power was just issued by the energy department June 16 last year. This facility is expected on stream next year and will considerably shore up Luzon grid’s power supply.
 
Also in the roll of power firms already given the go-signal for grid impact study are San Jose I City Power Corporation for a 9.90-MW rice husk-fired power project; Aboitiz Power for its power barges 1 to 4 in Navotas; Global Green Power PLC Corporation for biomass projects of 17.5-MW in Nueva Ecija and 35-MW in Bukidnon; TeaM Energy Corporation for 382-MW each capacity expansion for its Pagbilao and Sual plants; FDC Utilities Inc. for a 300-MW power plant in Misamis Oriental; and Limay Energen Corporation for a 140-MW coal-fired facility in Bataan.
 
The other projects are those of PetroEnergy Resources Corporation; Energy Development Corporation; Agusan Power Corporation; PNOC Renewables and Philippine National Oil Company-Exploration Corporation; HydroCore Corp.; Vivant Corporation; E-Power Technologies Corp.; Kanan Hydroelectric Power Corporation; Green Energy Management Holdings Inc., Alternergy Philippine Holdings Corpration and Bell Pine Power Corporation. (MMV)
 
==DOLE 12 trains women inmates in accessory making==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611333847213
*Sunday 8th of April 2012
:by  Danilo E. Doguiles
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 8 (PIA) -- Female inmates of the North Cotabato Provincial Jail were recently trained in making ladies’ accessories to help them earn some income.
 
In a press release sent to the Philippine Information Agency 12 this week, Charmaine Ladot-Sonsona, information officer of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 12, said the training held on March 22 was spearheaded by the DOLE North Cotabato Field Office in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology as part of the Women’s Month celebration.
 
Skills training involved techniques on production of commercially viable accessories such as bracelets, earrings, and others.
 
Lorie Buday of Matalam LGU Cooperative, who served as trainer, assured the inmates of market for their products. She said the cooperative is willing to purchase the inmates’ finished product which will then be sold in livelihood and trade fairs.
 
North Cotabato Field Office chief Edna Sales urged the inmates who took part of the training to make this a livelihood opportunity.
 
She said the assistance was only the beginning of more assistance to the women inmates. Among the help that they could expect, Sales said, includes special program for the employment of students.
 
She added that children of inmates who would qualify will be given priority in SPES.
 
Meanwhile, acting provincial jail warden SInsp. Israel Arboleda was grateful that DOLE 12 initiated the livelihood training.
 
He said inmates are one of the most neglected in society and at times adjudged as criminals even before they are convicted.
 
With such, he is assured that these inmates will see the hope of living a decent life after their rehabilitation inside the jail.
 
After the training, inmates received starter kits for the production of ladies’ accessories for them to be able apply what they have learned and start a business. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/DOLE 12)
 
==North Cotabato’s peace camps to reach 25,000 kids==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611333766497
*Saturday 7th of April 2012
:by  (DEDoguiles/PIA 12 with report from IDCD-Prov’l Governor’s Office)
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 7 (PIA)-- At least 25,000 Grade V school children from 17 municipalities and lone city of North Cotabato are expected to participate in the second run of the province’s Gov. Lala Summer Kids Peace Camp.
 
This year’s three-day peace camps began in Pikit municipality on March 9 – 11 where 2,451 children joined. This was followed by peace camps in Aleosan town on March 15 – 17 and another one on March 19 – 21 in Magpet municipality.
 
More peace camps are scheduled after the Holy Week until May including camps in Antipas, Matalam, M’lang, Kabacan, Pigcawayan, Makilala, Arakan, Tulunan, Carmen, Banisilan, Alamada, Midsayap, Libungan, and Pres. Roxas municipalities and in Kidapawan City.
 
Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza initiated this program last year in partnership with the Department of Education to promote peace among residents of the province starting while they are still young as well as developing potential leaders among them.
 
It also aims to motivate children to get involved and affirm their commitment to the government, help them discover and enhance their abilities and realize their role in the community especially in the government’s goal towards lasting peace.
 
This is done by gathering Muslim, indigenous people and Christian children in camps where they are introduced to diverse cultures of the tri-people living in the province, taught leadership skills and important moral values and encouraged to involve in community development.
 
“There should be no discrimination. Everyone has an equal opportunity. No matter what the sexual orientation, tribe or religion. And if you have discipline in your studies, you will go far,” Gov. Mendoza told participants in one of the peace camps.
 
The lady governor also challenged the future leaders of the province to “put into practice what you learn during the summer kids peace camp and serve as role models to the younger pupils when you go back to school.”
 
Activities during the summer kids camp include lectures and group activities including leadership workshops, sports competitions, lectures on environment and climate change, life skills and emergency preparedness, as well as activities that promote understanding of each other’s social, cultural and religious diversity.
 
Campers were also given the chance to exhibit their talents and skills via a talent show and Pabonggahan Night and live theater presentation showcasing cultures in the province.
 
During the opening ceremonies of the summer kids peace camp in Magpet on March 19, Gov. Mendoza also turned-over a P3.5 million worth covered court to host Apostol Memorial Elementary School.
 
She explained this was an incentive to the school for hosting the same event last year.  
 
The said project was funded in partnership with the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) Partylist whose representative, Congressman Raymond Mendoza, was also present during the turn-over ceremony.
 
==N. Cotabato LGU hands over P29.7-M infra projects to municipalities==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1611333687802
*Friday 6th of April 2012
:by  Danilo E. Doguiles
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 6 (PIA) -- At least P29.7 million worth of infrastructure projects were turned-over in March by the provincial government of North Cotabato to five of its municipalities.
 
Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza on March 10 handed over to the LGUs of Matalam and Carmen P17 million worth of infrastructure projects.
 
These included water systems worth P500,000 each for barangays Kilada ang Latagan as well as P500,000 multi-purpose buildings for barangays Marbel and New Abra, all in Matalam town.
 
Also turned-over were infrastructure projects to barangays in Carmen town. These include a P7-million concreting project of the Aroman-Lanoon road, P700,000 worth of one-classroom school building at Pebpoloan, and P983,159 power distribution line for barangay Kitulaan.
 
Other projects include a covered court in Carmen worth P2. 5 million, and a new rural health unit for barangay Poblacion built at P4 million.
 
“You are all accountable for the safekeeping of these projects. Use them for the benefit of the many and use them with care so that these projects can continue to provide service to the people in your barangays for a long time,” Mendoza said.
 
Turned-over projects in Aleosan town included a P1.2-million box culvert project charged against the province’s calamity fund in barangay New Panay, as well as concreting project of the public market worth P4.7 million and P5 million road concreting project in barangay Poblacion , which were both charged to the 20% economic development fund.
 
Baranay Malinga, Midsayap received a solar dryer worth P347,000, while barangays Renibon, New Igbaras, and Datu Binasing of Pigcawayan town received a P500,000 worth multi-purpose building each. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/LAF-IDCD-North Cotabato)
 
==Wage hike in Region 12 seen before Labor Day==
*Source: http://www.soccsksargen.com/wage-hike-in-region-12-seen-before-labor-day/
*Apr 5th, 2012
:by  Allen V. Estabillo
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/4 Apr) – An increase in the daily minimum wage rates for private sector workers in Southwestern Mindanao is looming, officials said on Wednesday.
 
In a statement, Chona Mantilla, Department of Labor and Employment Region 12 director, said the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board, which she also chairs, recently decided to hike the floor pay from P10 to P14 a day.
 
She noted the latest salary increase, or Wage Order No. RBXII-17, may take effect before May 1 or Labor Day, a regular holiday to honor the workers.
 
Before it will be effective, it needs to be published in a local newspaper.
 
Under the new wage order, which will be implemented in two tranches, the daily minimum wage rates will range from P246 to P270.
 
The first tranche was expected to take effect before May 1 and the next on December 1, 2012.
 
In coming up with wage adjustment, the RTWPB decided to integrate the present P15 daily cost of living allowance (COLA) to the new basic wage.
 
The existing daily floor pay ranges from P234 to P260.
 
“The last wage order was issued more than one year ago and there being no petition, the RTWPB has resolved to review, motu propio (on its own), the existing minimum wage rates in the region,” Mantilla said.
 
Studies on the socio-economic condition in the region warranted the need to grant an increase in the minimum wage rates of private sector workers in Region 12 regardless of their position, designation or status of their employment, and irrespective of the method by which their wages are paid, Ms. Mantilla said
 
Also called the SOCCSKSARGEN region, Region 12 covers the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.
 
The Wage Board conducted public consultations early this year in parts of the region to determine if a salary adjustment is needed for the area.
 
Alfredo Hebrona Jr., Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry governor for Southwestern Mindanao, declined to give a comment on the looming wage hike, saying he was not privy to the deliberation.
 
Jessie dela Cruz, RTWPB secretary, said that exemptions maybe granted to certain types of establishments, such as those distressed and those whose assets are not more than P3 million.
 
Following the public consultations early this year, Dela Cruz has said that the situation may not warrant an adjustment in the minimum wages of private sector workers, citing a report then by the National Economic and Development Authority that prices of basic consumer goods have remained stable.
 
Militant labor groups in the area since the past few years have demanded a legislated P125 across-the-board daily wage increase. (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)
 
==Holy Week is time to reflect on Christ’s suffering and resurrection -- Bishop Gutierrez==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611333518864
*Wednesday 4th of April 2012
:by  (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 4 (PIA) -- Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez of the Diocese of Marbel urged believers of Christ, especially the Catholics , to spend the Holy Week in prayers, meditations and sacrifices rather than in vacations and merriment.
 
“This entire week should be devoted to remembering the suffering , crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ,” he said in an interview with a local radio station.
 
“All other weeks of the year, we do not celebrate the Paschal mystery, only this week,” he reminded them.
 
He said believers should spend this entire week to praise God the Father for giving his only Son Jesus Christ who offered Himself to be crucified on the cross for the salvation of humanity.  
 
There is no better way to celebrate this, he added, but to reflect on the Jesus’s suffering on the cross and his rise to glory on Easter Sunday.
 
Bishop Gutierrez, however, asked believers to refrain from the traditional practice of some devotees to show their sacrifices by having themselves nailed on the cross.
 
Above all these, Bishop Gutierrez added, the entire Christendom should contemplate more on the glory of Christ’s resurrection.
 
In response, he pointed out, people should live with fear and faith on God by showing love and care for other people.
 
“After the Good Friday, Christ rose from the dead. He triumphed against death,” he said. “We should also change. We should also overcome.”
 
Easter should also be a time to give attention to the protection of the Mother Earth.  
 
He said, by giving importance and taking care of the Mother Earth, we show love for humanity as well as prepare the Earth for the future generation.
 
==TESDA specialistas in Soccsksargen gain ground==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611333416175
*Tuesday 3rd of April 2012
:by  (with report from Rolly Palencia/TESDA 12) (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 3 (PIA) -- Barely three months from its launching, Region 12’s TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Program (TSTP) has shown promise as a source of income among technical vocational education and training (TVET) graduates.
 
A press release from the office Technical Education and Skills Development Authority regional direct Zeus Ampuyas on Monday said, 130 organized TSTP entrepreneurs in three provinces and one city have already earned a total income of P259,340.
 
Overall, TESDA Specialistas have served 893 clients in various service categories such as beauty care and wellness, caregiving, building/house repair maintenance, computer hardware servicing, appliance repair, catering/food and beverage servicing to automotive and small engine servicing, Ampuyas said.
 
Areas where TESDA Specialistas are now operating include North Cotabato, South Cotabato, and Sarangani-General Santos.  
 
Ampuyas said, in the past three months they monitored the activities of the techno-entrepreneurs to determine if the purpose of the program has been achieved as evidenced by income per aggrupation.
 
Results of the monitoring indicated that of the seven service categories, building/house repair and maintenance has the highest average income which reached P43,126.67, followed by beauty care and wellness services which is P41,780.00. The third highest earning category was computer hardware services which accumulated income amounting to P15,100.00.
 
The rest of the service categories are also picking well in terms of earnings, the report said.
 
Ampuyas said that the income earned by the TESDA Specialistas in the last three months is an indication that the “newly launched program has started creating awareness and gaining support from the people in the community.”
 
“Money has also started to fill up the TESDA Specialistas’ purse as they render their services to their valued customers.”
 
TSTP was designed out to address problem of limited job opportunities in the market by assisting the unemployed or underemployed TVET graduates for them to be able to have a chance to be economically stable.
 
Under the program TESDA facilitates the organization of trained and certified TVET graduates with related skills to be productive into groups called TESDA specialistas who provide technical services for affordable fees in communities where they operate.
 
TESDA provides them with a TESDA Nurturer to guide and mentor them as well as link with the local government unit for possible support such as operation center and advertisement in the locality.  
 
Those interested to be a TESDA Specialista, they may inquire from the TESDA Provincial Offices near their area for a detailed information.
 
Households and individuals who would like to avail of the services of the techno-entrepreneurs may contact their local government officials or the local office of TESDA.
 
==PNP 12 on alert for the Holy Week==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R12&article=1611333344785
*Monday 2nd of April 2012
:by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 2 (PIA) -- South Cotabato’s police force has been put on heightened alert for the celebration of the Holy Week, P/SSupt. Randolph Delfin, police provincial director said.  
 
Delfin said, as early as two months ago, in accordance with a directive from the Police Regional Office, he ordered all police chiefs under his jurisdiction to plan out and strengthen security measures for the summer vacation.
 
“Included in this are the security measures for the celebration of the Holy Week as well as those intended to keep vacationers safe,” Delfin said.  
 
As in other important events, he said, police personnel will be deployed in public convergence places, such as terminals, churches, malls, supermarkets and others.
 
Security in the popular tourist destinations in the province, including Lake Sebu and the famous Seven Falls zip line, will also be increased with the expected influx of visitors coming to these areas.
 
“We are also intensifying our checkpoints in the province’s entry and exit points,” he added.
 
Meanwhile, Land Transportation Office – 12 regional director Arlan Mangelen said they are putting up assistance centers along major roads in the region to help motorists and travellers.  
 
“Our focus during the Holy Week is safety and protection of the traveling public,” he said.
 
Mangelen added that starting Wednesday, they are temporarily suspending their anti-colorum operations to be able to concentrate on the Operation Semana Santa.
 
LTO has also reminded motorists to meticulously prepare for the expected long travels. According to the agency, drivers should check BLOWBAGETS or battery, lights, oil, water (radiator & wiper washer), brakes, air pressure, gas, early warning device, tools, and self.
 
==Koronadal City turns dark for an hour==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1611333248745
*Sunday 1st of April 2012
:by  Danilo E. Doguiles
 
 
 
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato , Apr. 1 (PIA) -- A large part of Koronadal city turned dark as thousands of households joined the Earth Hour last night.
 
From 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., households, offices, government offices, malls, public switched their lights and other electric-powered appliances off .
 
Streetlamps were also turned off. Even motorists turned their vehicle’s lights to support to the global campaign.
 
The Earth Hour celebration here led by Mayor Peter B. Miguel, other local government officials and the city environment office started with an eco-invocation and ecumenical prayer at the city’s government center in Carpenter Hill.
 
Other highlights leading to the 8:30 p.m. Earth Hour, included the signing of a manifesto in support to efforts against global change, and a symposium on the science of climate change and how to solve climate change.
 
At around 6:30 p.m. participants who gathered in front of the Gaisano Grand Mall either joined the 3.5-kilometer Earth Hour Biking or Earth Hour 2012 Night Walk to Ace Centerpoint Supermarket at the center where the main program was held.  
 
At exactly 8:30 p.m. candles were lighted as the electric lights were turned off.
 
Meanwhile, the local electric distributor South Cotabato 1 Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO) 1 implemented a 30-minute power shut-off also in support of the campaign.
 
However, General Manager Santiago Tudio said, since the activity is voluntary, brownout was only enforced in the areas where the main activities was held, specifically Feeders 11, 22, and 33.
 
Earlier last week, South Cotabato Gov. Pingoy Y. Pingoy Jr. released a memorandum to employees of the provincial government to support the campaign. He also called on mayors in the province to encourage participation in their respective areas of responsibilities.
 
Besides , Koronadal City and neighboring towns in South Cotabato, General Santos City and the province also joined the country and the world in the symbolic 60-minute turning off of electricity.
 
Both General Santos City Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio and Sarangani province Gov. Migs Dominguez led the Earth Hour campaigns. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)
 
==[[South_Cotabato_Archived_News]]==
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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.

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.

PO summit in Soccsksargen first in Mindanao

by (DEDoguiles- PIA 12 with report from LMSalvo-DA RAFID 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 12 (PIA) -- The Regional People’s Organization Congress on May 3 here was not only the first in the entire Soccsksargen Region but also the first PO gathering in the history of the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) in Southern Philippines, DA 12 Regional Executive Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan said.

More than 300 individuals attended the summit. Among two-thirds of them were chairmen and members of POs; other participants included local chief executives, CFAD focal persons, municipal and provincial project management implementing units in the region.

“The presence of our mayors is a manifestation of their support to MRDP,” Datukan said.

She added that the collaboration between the POs and their respective local government units assures the success of the implementation of MRDP initiatives.

DA 12 Regional Technical Director and MRDP Regional head Dr. Jimmy Olivo said “the regional PO summit was designed to prepare the region for the forthcoming Mindanao-wide gathering of POs.”

DA-MRDP’s 1st Mindanao PO Congress is slated on May 14 in Davao City where POs in the six regions in the entire Mindanao will convene to share developments of projects granted to them by the program and to discuss issues and concerns affecting them.

Participants of the regional summit here passed Resolution No. 01, series of 2012 requesting Pres. Benigno C. Aquino III to augment the existing funds of MRDP. They also appealed to local chief executives in the region to expedite the implementation of the program in their areas.

They also recommend the formation people’s organization that caters specifically to Muslim communities.

The resolution will be presented during the Mindanao PO congress where Pres. Aquino is expected to come.

During her presentation of the general updates of MRDP projects, MRDP CFAD coordinator Shiela Siago pointed out that of the six regions in Mindanao, Soccsksargen has been a consistent top performer with regard to implementation of project implementation.

“Region 12 gets almost a billion from the World Bank where a lion’s share of the amount funded the region’s rural infrastructure projects,” she said.

Soccsksargen Region covers the provinces of North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and Sarangani and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal City, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

RTD Olivo said, “looking at the map of Central Mindanao, it is already half-filled with MRDP projects.”

Before the summit here ended, a raffle was drawn where the top prizes included two rice threshers, two corn mills, four carabaos, ang laminated sacks (trapal).

At least one thousand banana suckers were also raffled off along with seedlings of mangosteen, marang, guyabano, rambutan, and jackfruit. Provided by AgriPinoy Rice, Corn, High Value Crops and Livestock programs of DA.

Formal turn-over of these items is slated on May 31, along with the awarding of Gawad Saka regional winners.

MRDP is a medium term development intervention that addresses poverty reduction designed and implemented by DA. The program is funded by the World Bank with the national government (DA), and the LGUs which provide an equity share.

The program has four components: Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD), Rural Infrastructure (RI), Natural Resources Management (NRM), and Investment Governance Reform (IGR).






148 OSYs complete LGU-sponsored skills training

by (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 11 (PIA) -- Some 148 out-of-school youths in nearby Tampakan town recently completed a four-month skills training sponsored by the local government unit in partnership with the mining firm Sagittarius Mines Inc. (SMI) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Of these, 15 completed training in carpentry, 15 in masonry, 45 in plumbing, 22 in electrical installation and maintenance, 28 in welding and 23 in beauty care.

Efren Villarina, community affairs officer II, said the training of OSYs was implemented under the Educational Livelihood Program of Mayor Leonardo Escobillo in accordance with two of his three-fold thrust, namely: education and livelihood. The third thrust is health.

For the training of the out-of-school youth who come from the different barangays of the municipality, the LGU provided for the venue while SMI provided the training equipment and tools and honorarium of the trainors provided by TESDA.

At the graduation ceremony on April 25, TESDA-South Cotabato Director Leonora Guiloreza encouraged the trainees “to make of the skills you have acquired from the training course.”

“Believe in yourselves, hone your skills and never let them wane,” she challenged them.

Meanwhile, Mayor Escobillo assured that them that help from the local government unit would not end with the graduation rites.

“We have more dreams for the residents of Tampakan. This will not end here, he said. “I assure you that we will continue to develop and enrich what you have learned for the benefit of the entire municipality.”

South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr, who was guest of honor at the graduation rites saluted the LGU for spearheading the education and livelihood program for the OSYs and for giving emphasis on skills training as a solution to poverty.

“These youths can make use of the knowledge they gained to get jobs. And if they have jobs they have sources of income and could help improve the lives of their families,” the governor said.

DOLE 12 pushes for voluntary compliance with labor laws thru ICP

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 10 (PIA) -- In line with its advocacy to promote industrial peace in the entire Soccsksargen Region, the regional office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-12) pushes for more voluntary compliance by companies and establishments to labor laws and standards.

Charmaine Dawn Ladot-Sonsona, labor communications officer of DOLE 12, said through the Incentivizing Compliance Program (ICP), they are encouraging establishments to abide by occupational safety and health standards, labor standards, and labor-management dispute resolution among others

“ICP encourages voluntary compliance first by giving recognition and incentives to a company’s initiatives to voluntarily comply with labor laws or having implemented a much higher standard and second by assisting a non-compliant company through training and technical assistance to enable the company to comply with the requirements,” Sonsona explained.

Incentives for these companies include a tripartite (management-labor-government) Seal of Excellence for their establishments which should also be carried on their products, she added.

In Region 12, nine establishments have already been enrolled in the ICP.

These are Dole Philippines Inc (Dolefil Inc.); Sagittarius Mining Incorporated, and South Cotabato Integrated Port Services, Inc. in South Cotabato; ALSONS Industries; Notre Dame of Tacurong College in Sultan Kudarat; Cotabato Light in Cotabato City; and Energy Development Corporation-MDGP and Stanfilco - North Cotabato Operation in North Cotabato.

She said, before these companies could be awarded with the Tripartite Seal of Excellence, they should have abided with the following criteria: Tripartite Certificate of compliance on Labor Standards, Gawad Kaligtasan and Kalusugan, Certificate of Child Labor Free Establishment, National Productivity Olympics Award or its equivalent, and Outstanding LMC Awardee for Industrial Peace.

On April 20, 2012, Tripartite Certification Committee (TCC) met to discuss the results of the assessment done by the social auditors, which is composed of labor representatives Francis Gales and Mr. Ronnie Mondragon, Regional Tripartite and Industrial Peace Council vice chair for management Carlito Uy and management representative Norlan Yap.

Based on the audit results, Sonsona said, the enrolled establishments will submit necessary documents for remediation where compliance gaps are addressed and corrected.

DOLE 12 management aims to nominate the company or companies who will qualify based on criteria set forth by Department Order No. 011 , series of 2011 for the National Recognition Awards, she said. Meanwhile, during the April 20 meeting of the TCC-ICP, Dolefil Inc., released a check amounting to P1.7 million for the payment of the balance for the rice benefits of its employees.

The ICP guideline (Department Order 115-11, series of 2011) states: “promotion of voluntary compliance with the involvement of workers and employers is a complementary approach to a) imbed a culture of voluntary compliance with labor laws; b) ensure fair, expeditious and non-litigious settlement of disputes; c) enhance workplace productivity; promote decent work; and increase the level of Philippine competitiveness.” (DEDoguiles- PIA 12/DOLE-12

DA 12 assures dispersed machineries to farmer groups were of high quality

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 9 (PIA) -- DA 12 Regional Executive Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan refuted earlier report of a TV station in nearby General Santos City that the farm machineries distributed to farmers in Soccsksargen Region on March 30 were defective.

Datukan said, it came to her attention that a news report in one of the local TV stations in Gensan had the headline, “Ilang makinang natangap ng mga magsasaka sa DA, depektibo.”

The report was based on an interview with some farmers in Surallah town.

Although some units had minor defects, Datukan explained, those found with some flaws were not released to the beneficiaries pending compliance by supplier to the request of DA 12 to conduct proper quality checkup and to come up with necessary adjustments before these will be finally awarded to the recipients.

“The defect is only at the mounting and spindle part of the hand tractor and thresher, respectively,” Dir. Datukan pointed out.

During the interview with the TV reporters, some of the recipients, like the members BINTIKO extended their gratitude for receiving a number of farm machines including one thresher, one 4-wheel drive tractor, and one hand tractor but also said that their thresher was held by DA pending further quality check because of a minor factory defect in their unit.

Unfortunately, Datukan said, the words “factory defects” were highlighted in the news report.

BINTIKO Chairman Jonathan Javelosa called up the DA Regional Office and told Regional Technical Director Jimmy M. Olivo that such comment in no way intended to undermine or discredit the Department of Agriculture.

“The DA stands for quality assured equipment and ensures that any fabrication defects must be replaced by the supplier, since these are under the one-year warranty and service after sales agreement,”Dir. Datukan said.

Starting immediately, Dir Datukan promised that all units will undergo thorough and careful quality inspection instead of random and sampling check only.

Meanwhile, Chairman Arnulfo Beltijar of San Felipe Irrigators Association in Tantangan, South Cotabato said that the farm machinery they received were in good performing conditions.

“We will take good care of these sets of farm machinery given by the DA,” Beltijar said.

The P21-million worth of farm machinery was distributed to various farmer groups in Region 12 to further improve their area’s agricultural productivity.

The project is part of the Agri Pinoy Rice Program’s Mechanization that enables to mobilize productive farming in the region.

Dir Datukan reiterated that these agricultural machines and equipment were procured through RA 9184 otherwise known as the Government Procurement Reform Act directing the Bids and Awards Committee to be responsible in the bidding process therefore these machines are of high quality considering that the winning bidders provided the farmer’s preferred brands, “Kubota” and “Yanmar.”.

For the next awarding of farm equipment, Dir Datukan ordered the one-on-one checking on the unit to reassure that these were in good working condition before these are awarded to the intended beneficiaries. (DED - PIA 12/DA-RAFID 12)

South Cotabato police to lay down anti-drug strategies

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 8 (PIA) -- Police officials in South Cotabato will meet Friday, May 11, to craft strategies against illegal drugs and drug abuse.

Eduardo Siason, permanent representative of the governor to the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) said, “the action planning would require municipal and city police stations to focus their activities on drug problems in their respective area.”

Invited to the anti-drug strategic planning workshop are the chiefs of police of 10 municipal police stations, and lone city police office, along with one investigator involved in drug cases from each station, as well as agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) assigned in in the province.

Highlight of the activity would be the presentation of each police station's anti-drug action plan; PDEA will also present its anti-drug action plan.


“Members of the panel will be there to clarify each police station’s strategic plan such as how this will be implemented, sources of fund, and other concerns,” Siason said.

After these plans are presented and discussed, he said, each police station will revise their plans according to the suggestions by a panel and present these for approval to Police Provincial Director P/SSupt. Randolph Delfin, Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., and PDEA 12 Regional Director Aileen Lovitos.

Siason said, the action planning is necessary after the provincial board approved Gov. Pingoy’s request for this year’s supplemental budget no. 1, which include P500,000 additional allocation for PADAC operations.

“We want to make sure that the funds that Gov. Pingoy has given us will be spent on the purpose these were intended for,” he said.

Also with the approval of the supplemental budget, Siason expects the PADAC and its partners would be able to intensify its advocacy projects against drugs, including the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) and its campaigns in the communities.

He also announced that the provincial government will hold search for outstanding municipal and barangay anti-drug abuse councils, where one of the criteria for judging pertains to the implementation of the strategic action plan.

“The awarding will coincide with the celebration of the Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week in November,” Siason said. (DED-PIA 12)

School supplies on sale on May 16- 18, says DTI–South Cotabato

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 7 (PIA) -- Parents will receive support from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as they try to look for low-priced school supplies of their children with the opening of classes on June 4.

Elbert Capecio senior trade and industry development specialist of DTI-South Cotabato said they are now preparing for the staging of the three-day “Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan” where school supplies such as notebooks, pens and pencils, coloring tools, and many others, as well as uniforms, bags and shoes, will be offered on discounted prices.

Capecio said, the Balik-Eskwela Caravan in South Cotabato will be held on May 16, 17, and 18 in Koronadal City “Instead of the usual practice of gathering producers, manufacturers, and other participants in one place, the school supplies will be sold inside the participating malls, and stores.”

He identified the participating stores as KCC Mall of Marbel, Ace Centerpoint, Gaisano Grand Mall, and Starbright Store.

The decision not to gather the participating entities in one place, he explained, was in response to some concerns like pilferage and additional effort and expenses to install booths.

Capecio added that based on their monitoring, there has not been changes in the prices of school supplies in the province.

Besides the Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan next week, DTI-South Cotabato is also preparing for a major discount during South Cotabato province’s T’nalak Festival in July. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

Tampakan issue triggers FB word war between military and militant group

by Bong S. Sarmiento


KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/05 May) – Exchanges between the military and a militant group have lately turned nasty due to the Tampakan copper-gold project issue, with both sides resorting to name-calling via the social network, Facebook. The 27th Infantry Battalion based in Tupi, SouthCotabato branded Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) –SOCCSKSARGEN spokesperson Ryan Lariba as “liar.” In turn, Bayan-SOCCSKSARGEN called the 27th IB “berdugo,” or butcher or executioner. The harsh labeling, done via Facebook, originated from the April 22 Earth Day incident when groups supporting the Tampakan project allegedly blocked the solidarity mission of militant, religious and indigenous peoples’ groups from proceeding to the mountains. In a Facebook post dated April 24, the 27th Infantry (Action) Battalion called Lariba a “liar and wished that his soul burn in hell.” “You are the one violating the human rights of the members of 27th Infantry Battalion. You know you are making false accusation in public,” the post reads. “You were there. We were not. You are fabricating stories that are designed to malign the reputation and honor of the men in uniform. You are misleading the general public with your hallucination.” it added. On Thursday, the Facebook account of Bayan-SOCCSKSARGEN tagged the 27th IB as “berdugo” and alleged protector of Sagittarius Mines, Inc. It said the mine site had become militarized since news broke out in March that several tribal communities had set up barricades against the Tampakan project in protest to the relocation plans of the mining company. Lt. Col. Alexis Noel Bravo, 27th IB commander, himself labeled Lariba as a “liar” over a local radio station during the futile attempt of the militant groups to go up Bong Mal district last April 22. Bong Mal is the boundary between Tampakan town and Kiblawan, Davao del Sur that serves as a crucial artery in the mines development site. Blaan communities opposing the Tampakan project have set up several checkpoints in Bong Mal. At the time, Lariba accused Sagittarius Mines and the 27thInfantry Battalion as behind the efforts to stop them from going to Bong Mal to express their solidarity to the tribesmen opposing the mining venture. Bravo explained then that those who blocked the solidarity mission were groups supportive of the Tampakan project and that he ordered his troops to stay in their detachments and be prepared as reaction forces in case an accident would happen.

Portions of the way to Bong Mal have steep inclines accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles. Members of the solidary mission were on board jeepneys, elf trucks and multi-cabs. The Tampakan project is touted as the largest known undeveloped copper-gold deposit in Southeast Asia. The estimated contained copper at Tampakan in total resources has risen from 13.9 million metric tons to 15 million MT while estimated contained gold has risen from 16.2 million ounces to 17.9 Moz, according to the latest company study. In January, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources rejected Sagittarius Mines’ application for an environmental compliance certificate, citing the unresolved open-pit mining ban imposed by South Cotabato province. The company filed a motion for reconsideration but the Environment department has yet to announce a decision. (Bong Sarmiento/MindaNews)

DOLE-12 to hold more confab on new wage order

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 5 (PIA) -- After a successful symposium on Wage Order RB XII No. 17 here last May 1, the regional office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) have slated a series of meeting with stakeholders on the new wage order.

RTWPB 12 Board Secretary Jessie dela Cruz said the activities are intended to encourage public awareness of Wage Order 17 that became effective last April 18.

He said that wage symposiums will be held in Tacurong City for Sultan Kudarat area on May 4 (Friday); in Cotabato City on May 17 and in Kidapawan City for North Cotabato province on May 24.

“Wage clinics for General Santos City and Sarangani province area is tentatively scheduled on May 11. We aim to cover the entire Soccsksargen area before the end of May,” he said.

Through these wage clinics, DOLE 12 and RTWPB 12 explain how the board - which include among others labor and management representatives - arrived at the decision to order an additional P10 to 14 to the daily cost of living allowance (COLA), decide on the salient features of the new wage order, as well as penalties for non-compliance and provisions regarding exemptions.

The activities are also venues where stakeholders can clarify issues regarding the provisions of the wage order and implementation of the same.

During the symposium in Koronadal City on Tuesday, dela Cruz said the board decided to pass the new wage “motu proprio” after a series of public consultations, and based on the socio-economic data provided by the National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Agriculture.

“We would like to clarify the wrong notion that only DOLE fixes the wage in the region, he said. “Both the labor and management sectors are equally represented in the board.

Simplicio Villarta Jr of the Federation of Free Workers and Jomarie Angeles of the ALO-TUCP sit in the board as labor sector representatives while Atty. Eugenio Soyao and Warren Gregorio Manilay represented the management sector, dela Cruz said.

The board is being chaired by the DOLE regional director.

Dela Cruz said that the board decides to raise the minimum wage based on the following criteria: needs of the workers and their families; capacity of pay of the employee or industry; comparable wages; and requirements for national development, investment, and employment generation.

Other factors considered were changes in the prices of the basic commodities and services, inflation rate, and poverty threshold.

“As of February 2011, poverty threshold level in Region 12 is at P226.62 per day for a family with five members,” he said. “If we consider, our lowest minimum wage was already P234 before the implementation of the new wage order.”

Wage Order RBXII No. 17 orders the integration of the P15 COLA ordered in the previous order into the basic pay, which dela Cruz pointed out also increases the bases of computation of the 13th month pay and other benefits and bonuses of the laborers.

The wage clinic in Koronadal City was attended by more than 200 participants from labor and management groups, payroll officers of establishments, nongovernment organizations, media, private schools, and other stakeholders.

Dela Cruz also pointed out that so far they have not received any petition or formal complaint against the implementation of the new wage order. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

NDRRMC: Whirlwind hits Bukidnon, flash floods hit South Cotabato

by KG, GMA News


At least one house was destroyed while 12 others were damaged after a whirlwind hit a residential area in Valencia City in Bukidnon Thursday afternoon.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said the incident occurred at 3:30 p.m. at Purok 1-A in Lumbo in Valencia City.

It cited initial information indicating 13 families were affected, although no one was reported hurt.

A local disaster risk reduction and management team was sent to the area to assess the damage, the NDRRMC said.

South Cotabato

Meanwhile, the NDRRMC also said a flash flood hit two villages in South Cotabato Wednesday.

Citing belated initial reports, the NDRRMC said the incident occurred between 2 and 3 p.m. at Lambingi and Kusan villages in Banga town.

It said 26.7 hectares of corn fields were damaged in Lambingi, while properties and infrastructure were damaged in Kusan.

At least 12 farmers from Lambingi and two families from Kusan were affected.

The estimated damage to property was pegged at P200,000.

JICA president vows continued support to Upi, Maguindanao

by (Dani Doguiles and Hannadi PIA/-Upi LGU)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 3 (PIA) -- The new president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) reiterated the international donor agency’s commitment to help in the development efforts of Upi town in Maguindanao.

“In behalf of JICA, I promise you that we would continue to work closely with you in the coming years," Dr. Akihito Tanaka told Upi Mayor Mayor Ramon Piang Sr., Vice Mayor Alexis Platon, SB members, and heads of offices.

Tanaka, along with some members of the International Team and officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Social Fund Project (ASFP), visited Upi yesterday as part of their monitoring of the implementation of JICA projects in the area.

These projects include several school buildings, heavy equipment, and solar dryers as well as goat raising project in support of efforts to promote Halal industry in Maguindanao province.

The visit was the first trip of the 56-year old official to Upi and Mindanao. Tanaka , which JICA Newsletter described as “a renowned academic of international relations” began his role as JICA president on April 1, 2012.

Tanaka is vice president of the Tokyo University. He replaced Dr. Sodako Ogata.

“I am quite impressed with the mayor’s leadership and the cooperation of local officials to realize good governance in the implementation of projects,” he said.

He also congratulated Mayor Piang “for his vigor and dynamism.”

On his part, Mayor Piang thanked JICA for its support to the development of the underprivileged Upi town through construction of roads, improvement of the level of education in the municipality, assistance to local farmers.

N. Cotabato hands P5.9 M worth of infrastructure to Arakan LGU

by (DEDoguiles – PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 2 (PIA) -- North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza and officials of the provincial government recently turned-over to the municipality of Arakan, P5.9 million worth of infrastructure projects .

In a press release sent to PIA 12 yesterday the Information and Development Communication Division (ICDC) of the provincial government reported that the turn-over ceremony was held at the opening program of the Gov. Lala 2nd Summer Kids Peace Camp in the municipality on April 23.

Infrastructure projects turned-over to the LGU include multi-purpose covered court worth P3,483,800. This, according to the ICDC report was as an incentive for its successful implementation of the 1st summer kids peace camp last year.

The provincial government also turned over P2.47 million worth of improvement which upgraded the Arakan Rural Health Unit as a Basic Emergency Management Of Obstetrics Cases (BEMOC) facility. The project was funded by the European Commission.

With the upgrade, the BEMOC facility in Arakan can now provide delivery services for pregnant women. It is also seen to improve accessibility, utilization, and quality of services for the treatment of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

With Gov. Mendoza during the turn-over ceremony were 2nd District board members Cristobal Cadungon, Airene Claire Pagal, Onofre Respicio, and Noel Baynosa.

The lady governor promised more incentives to the municipality depending on the success of the summer kids peace camp.

The summer kids peace camp, is an annual program of Gov. Mendoza and intends to inculcate among Grade V pupils of the province leadership skills in the context of peaceful co-existence among the lumads, Muslims and Christians inhabitants of the province.

School children are also taught important moral values such as respect for others’ cultures and beliefs and are honed to become the provincial government’s young ambassadors of peace to their respective communities.

Some 25,000 Grade V pupils are expected in participate in this year's summer kids camps in the 17 municipalities and lone city of North Cotabato.

40 Midsayap fisherfolk to receive tilapia fingerlings, fish pond

by (DEDoguiles -PIA 12/Roderick Bautista-1st District NCot Congressional Office)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 1 (PIA) -- Some 40 fisherfolk in confict-affected village in Midsayap, North Cotabato are set to benefit from tilapia fingerlings distribution and turn-over of nine units of fish ponds from the government.

Plan for the fingerlings dispersal and fish pond turn-over in the remote village of Olandang is being finalized by the office of North Cotabato 1st District Rep. Jesus Sacdalan and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and officials of the local government unit.

Dominador Aspacio, congressional district office staff, said the fingerlings will be dispersed free to help residents begin a sustainable livelihood.

Aspacio also said fish ponds were built through Food for Work of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. These will be turned-over to the fisherfolk to provide them with facility where they can raise the dispersed tilapia.

Earlier, BFAR personnel conducted a series of lectures on the cultural management of tilapia with the beneficiaries to prepare them for the implementation of the livelihood project.

Barangay Olandang is situated along Rio Grande de Mindanao and Liguasan Marsh, which make the village an ideal location for the tilapia raising.

Adults, OSYs in Upi, Maguindanao finish literacy and numeracy course

by (DEDoguiles-PIA 12, with report from Hannadi Guiamad-Upi LGU)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 30 (PIA) -- Hundreds of adults and out-of-school youth in Upi town, Maguindanao have completed a three-month literacy and numeracy course, recently.

On Saturday, at least 400 adults and out-of school youth learners received their certificates of completion from the Literacy for Peace and Development (LIPAD) Project, where they learned how to write, read and do simple computations. The ceremony was held at the Upi municipal gymnasium on Saturday.

Learners were from barangays Kibleg, Ganasi, Nangi at Borongotan.

In her message, LIPAD Project director Prof. Pilar A. Bautista said they aim to provide underprivileged individuals, especially adults and out-of school youth, the opportunity to learn basic writing, reading and counting.

This is necessary for them, she said, to learn these very important skills, which they can use in daily affairs and in simple transactions such as those involved in doing business with others.

LIPAD is a project of the Magbassa Kita Foundation Inc., a non-profit, non-government organization dedicated to the promotion of literacy, poverty alleviation, as well as peace and development founded by former Senator Santanina Rasul in the 1960s.

The project is being funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

It aims to raise the basic and functional literacy level among adults and out-of-school youth in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Besides Upi, LIPAD project is also being implemented in the towns of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Guindulungan, and Talayan for Maguindanao province area.

Some of the graduates were emotional when they received their certificates of completion because they did not expect to have been given the chance to learn to read, write, and do simple computations despite their age.

Barangay Borongotan chairperson Irene Galanto, in her message, thanked the learning facilitators for their diligence in helping the participants learn these basic and important skills and for being patient in going to remote areas to reach the under served residents.

Upi Mayor Ramon Piang Sr. and some members of the Sangguniang Bayan attended the completion ceremony.

The affair was highlighted by presentations of learners, who showed their talents in cultural singing and dancing.

Aside from the certificate of completion, those who have completed the course, also received reading materials featuring indigenous stories, which they can use to hone what they learned.

Awards like Best in Reading, Best in Writing, and Best in Numeracy were also given to graduates who excelled.






SPES-TWSP convergence program to cover 21 LGUs in Region 12

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 29 (PIA) -- A total of 21 municipalities in three provinces of Soccsksargen region will benefit from the initial implementation of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Convergence Program on poverty alleviation.

The program brings together DOLE’s Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) to provide training and employment opportunities to the marginalized sector of the society, especially the out-of-school youth (OSY).

Based on a list provided by the office of DOLE 12 Regional Director Chona Mantilla last Friday, the SPES-TWSP Convergence Program will cover 11 municipalities in North Cotabato, eight in Sultan Kudarat, and two in Sarangani.

In North Cotabato, beneficiary OSYs should come from Aleosan, Midsayap, Tulunan, Alamada, Arakan, Banisilan, Kabacan, Libungan, Magpet, Matalam, and President Roxas.

Interested and qualified OSYs in Kalamansig, Bagumbayan, Colombio, Esperanza, Isulan, Lambayong, Lebak, and Senator Ninoy Aquino municipalities of Sultan Kudarat may also avail of the training and employment program.

On May 1, the program will be launched in General Santos City for the municipalities of Malungon and Alabel in Saragani Province where the first 42 scholarship grantees come from.

Director Mantilla said more municipalities may be included in the coming months.

“We have requested for the inclusion of the municipalities of Lake Sebu, T’boli and Sto. Niño in South Cotabato,” Director Mantilla said, adding that they are now awaiting approval of this by Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz.

Under the program, beneficiary OSYs who “may also be an occupationally disabled worker, a person with disability, a displaced worker, or a victim of trafficking, illegal recruitment or child labor,” will undergo mandated 20 to 52 days of technical vocational training in TESDA-identified institutions.

As in the original SPES program, DOLE will pay each beneficiary 40 percent of the prevailing minimum wage in the region for every day of training.

The amount, according to the program guidelines, may be used as a training allowance or as capital to purchase the OSY’s starter kit.

More than 400 scholarship slots may be opened in Soccsksargen Region this year for OSYs interested in techvoc trainings that will be identified by TESDA 12. The program is open to OSY’s between 15 to 25 years old, whose family income (including his, if any) does not exceed the latest annual regional poverty threshold level for a family of six, as determined by the National Economic Development Authority.

Applicants should have reached high school level to be able to participate in the program.

Interested individuals need to submit to the nearest DOLE or TESDA office the needed documents. For more information, you may refer to the nearest DOLE Field Office or Public Employment Service Office or provincial/district office of TESDA. (DED-PIA 12)

Cotelco GM says AboitizPower, TMI did not refuse delivery of power to coop

by (DED-PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 28 (PIA) -- AboitizPower and Therma Marine Inc. (TMI) did not refuse to deliver power to Cotabato Electric Cooperative (Cotelco) nor did they impose P16.11 per kwh rate on the cooperative, Cotelco General Manager Godofredo Homez said.

Last Wednesday, several radio stations and newspapers reported that negotiations between Cotelco and TMI for a 8-MW supply of electricity have stalled because the latter would charge Cotelco P16.11/kwh of power supplied, as well as require them a P4-million security bond and P14-million advanced payment.

“In summary, we want to clarify that AboitizPower and TMI did not refuse to deliver power to Cotelco,” Homez said in a letter sent to the Department of Energy and PIA-12.

“AboitizPower and TMI did not impose P16.11 per kwh rate on Cotelco,” he added.

Homez also pointed out that the prepaid agreement was not imposed on the electric cooperative, adding that the rate is more or less P9.00 per kwh, which is the same rate charged to all electric cooperatives under contract with all TMI.

“It was an agreement discussed between two parties in consideration of the immediate need for power by Cotelco and the need of TMI to be protected for the costs they will incur in delivering power, especially fuel costs,” he explained.

Homez confirmed that Cotelco wrote to AboitizPower last April 12 to ask for a 8-MW supply from TMI in anticipation of the huge deficit in power supply during the month-long rehabilitation of Pulangi IV hydropower plant.

Aboitiz power, he said, expressed availability of 8 MW.

“But following rules of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), our transaction must be governed by at least a provisional authority (PA) from the ERC,” he said. PAs, he explained, are usually issued 30 days of publication of the draft power supply agreement.

Homez explained that since they could not wait for a provisional agreement, they wrote to ERC asking that they be allowed to receive delivery of power from TMI without the required authority.

On April 19, he said, ERC approved Cotelco’s request to get power from TMI but not less than the prevailing NPC-Time of Use Rate or P.90 per kwh.

Regarding the P4-M security bond, Homez pointed out that this is a standard in all financial contracts. About the advanced payment, he explained that “without a provisional agreement, Cotelco cannot legally impose the new rates to its consumers; following this is the risk that TMI will not be paid for its fuel and overhead costs. Thus a proposal for a prepaid system was discussed.”

Cotelco’s service area at regularly experiences up to 8 hours of rotational brownout after the Pulangi IV plant was closed for maintenance works last week.

Before Pulangi IV was closed, Cotelco imposed 3 to 5 hours of rotational brownout. Cotelco, as well as the city government of Kidapawan and the provincial government of Cotabato, have been asking for the retention of 25 percent of the power generated by the Mt. Apo Geothermal Power Plant owned by the Energy Development Corporation.

The present 8-hour-per-day power outages in North Cotabato could persist until May 17, the date set for the completion of the Pulangi IV rehab, if Cotelco cannot buy supply from TMI.

Opportunities await OSYs in DOLE-TESDA convergence program

by (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 27 (PIA) -- More help will soon be made available to out-of-school youths in Soccksargen Region as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) joined together two of their flagship programs.

DOLE 12 Regional Director Chona Mantilla yesterday announced they will launch on Labor Day (May 1) in General Santos City the DOLE-TESDA Convergence Program on Poverty Alleviation.

“The program joins together the Special Program for the Employment of Students of DOLE and the Training for Work Scholarship Program of TESDA,” Mantilla explained. “This will be called SPES-TWSP Convergence Program.”

Under the program, qualified OSYs undergo the SPES program but instead of employing in an establishment for a specified duration should instead undergo technical-vocational training.

Forty-two OSYs from Malungon and Alabel towns in Sarangani province are scheduled to receive scholarship grants during the ceremonial launching at the KCC Convention Hall in Gensan.

At least 400 SPES-TWSP scholars are expected to benefit from the program this year.

According to the DOLE-TESDA Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1 series of 2012 dated March 23, 2012, “the implementation of the SPES-TWSP convergence program will be nationwide, prioritizing the poorest areas in the 16 regions.”

In region 12, it will be implemented in 21 poor municipalities in the provinces of Sarangani, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat.

Mantilla said, they are still requesting for the inclusion of at least three municipalities in South Cotabato, which was not included in the initial list.

For an OSY to qualify, he or she should be 15 to 25 years old and whose parents’ combined income does not exceed the latest annual regional poverty threshold level for a family of six.

“An OSY may also be an occupationally disabled worker, a person with disability, a displaced worker, or a victim of trafficking, illegal recruitment of child labor,” the circular noted.

Based on the existing SPES guidelines, the training program in which the beneficiary can enroll should be for a minimum of 20 days (160 hours) to a maximum of 52 days only.

DOLE will pay for 40 percent of the applicable minimum wage after completion of the training program for the training allowance or starter kit of the OSYs.

The agency will also provide guidance and necessary technical support to capacitate the OSYs to engage in self-employment after the training.

TESDA handles the selection of the OSYs who will undergo the training program and become beneficiaries as well as identification of technical education and skills development institutions where the scholars will enrol.

Interested OSYs may file application and required documents at the Public Employment Service Office or TESDA Provincial/District Office nearest them.

Required documents include duly accomplished SPES Application Form and TESDA Trainee Profile Form; copy of birth certificate or any document that shows his or her date of birth, latest report card (Form 138), income tax return of parents or certification issued by BIR or barangay chairperson indicating that they are exempted from paying taxes, and certificate of good moral character from authorized barangay official.

8 DAR scholars in So. Cotabato finish in Agri-tech course

by (DEDoguiles-PIA 12/MTVQuimsing/DAR-SoCot)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 26 (PIA) -- Eight scholars of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in South Cotabato under the Programang Agraryo Iskolar yesterday graduated their course at the Surallah National Agricultural School (SUNAS), in nearby Surallah town.

Ma. Theresa Quimsing, information officer of DAR-South Cotabato said, the scholars completed all requirements for a Diploma in Agricultural Technology.

The new graduate are Josephine Areza, Mery Chris De Joseph, Ernest John Eucare, Ramilyn Lasig, Jayren Mandeoya, Ryan Plenciano, Lovelyn Joy Retuyan, and Rosa Santerva.

For two years they received financial support for tuition fees, books, and personal allowances from DAR.

The “Programang Agraryo Iskolar” is part of the support services given to the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).

Under the program children of ARBs are given the opportunity to finish a college degree related to agriculture.

The knowledge and skills they have acquired during their studies should help them become agents in developing their awarded lands and spur progress in their community in general, Quimsing added.

South Cotabato cops note improved operations

by .(PNA)

LAP/AVE/AC


GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Operations of police units in South Cotabato province significantly improved during the first three months of the year as they cleared over 73 percent of the crime incidents that occurred in the area. Senior Supt. Randolph Delfin, South Cotabato police director, said they achieved a crime clearance efficiency rating of 73.33 during the first quarter, which increased by 20 percent from last year’s records. Crime clearance efficiency refers to the percentage of cleared cases out of the total number of crime incidents handled by law enforcement agencies for a given period of time. In terms of crime solution efficiency, he said they slightly improved their rating from 25 percent last year to 27.33 percent this year. “Out of the 793 crime incidents that we handled, 494 were so far cleared and 218 have been solved,” Delfin said. The police official said among their major accomplishment for the period was the recovery of 15 of the 23 motorcycles that were stolen within the province’s 10 towns and lone city. He said they filed six cases on Monday against several identified carnapping or motorcycle theft suspects. Delfin maintained that the province has remained generally peaceful and orderly as shown by the area’s crime statistics. He said the average crime rate in the area during the first quarter of the year has gone down to 31.9 percent from the 35.7 percent in the same period last year. In terms of illegal drugs, Delfin said they have so far arrested 33 suspects and launched 18 major operations in the area. He said these operations have led to the recovery of some P5M worth of illegal drugs, specifically mehtamphetamine hydrochloride or "shabu" and marijuana. The police official said they were able to arrest 75 persons with pending arrests warrants, including 18 who were facing illegal gambling charges. Delfin added that they apprehended 12 suspects and recovered 18 high-powered arms in separate operations in Tantangan and Banga towns.

LGU, Army to gather youth in leadership summit

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 24 (PIA) -- The Philippine Army and the local government are organizing a four-day leadership summit on May 13 where more than 200 young people from Tampakan town are expected to attend.

Gricelda Pacano, social welfare and development officer of Tampakan said the local government and the 27th Infantry Battalion are collaborating to hold the Youth Leadership Summit (YSL) 2012 to increase awareness among young residents of their responsibilities and help achieve lasting peace in their respective communities.

Pacano said, the activity will be held at the Rock Ridge Resort in Barangay Lambayong, Tampakan and will be attended by young people from the municipality’s 14 barangays.

She said, the summit specifically aims to develop leadership potential of the young people, increase their knowledge of peace and development, educate them on the effects of illegal drug use, and improve their understanding of patriotism and cooperation with their communities.

Activities shall include lectures and workshops on interpersonal communication, disaster risk reduction and management, dangerous drugs awareness, gender and cultural sensitivity, values formation, social responsibility, environmental awareness, threats to national security, knowing the Armed Forces of the Philippines and government plans for the youth sector.

Other activities include film viewing, contests on logo and poster-making, extemporaneous speech, mural painting, and Search for Mr. and Ms. YLS 2012.

Youth participants are also expected to organize their community action plan and pass a manifesto or oath for peace on the final day of the summit. (DED-PIA 12, South Cotabato)

Army troops join Earth Day clean-up drive in Tacurong City

by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 23 (PIA) -- Troops of the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade based in nearby Tacurong City on Saturday joined different sectors in a clean-up drive, which was part of the city’s celebration of the Earth Day 2012.

Civil military operations officer Cpt. Alex Escalante, explained the Unifier Brigade’s participation in the “Limpyo Kalog” (cleaning of canals) was to encourage people to participate in environmental preservation and protection.

Other participants of the activity were member of the Philippine National Police, employees and officials of the local government units, academe and the transports groups.

Non-government organizations, civil society and the private sector also joined in the activity.

Clean-up focused on cleaning of the city’s canals of wastes, debris, plastics and other materials that could clog the drainage during heavy rains as well as clearing of the grasses along the national highway.

After the clean-up drive, participants converged at the City Hall Ground for a short program

Unifier Brigade commander, Col. Edmundo Pangilinan reminded the participants: “Earth Day is every day, so let us work together and better care for our natural environment.

Tacurong City councilor Psyche Sucaldito, Tacurong , chairperson of the committee on environment also expressed appreciation to all participants for sharing their time and effort to care for Mother Earth.

Earth Day is an annual global celebration, spearheaded by the Earth Day Network. It is geared toward bringing awareness and appreciation of the Earth’s natural environment.

This year, the Earth Day Network expected at least two billion people worldwide joining the Earth Day celebration and helping “Mobilize the Earth.”






Peace Council objects to establishment of MILF camps in the So. Cotabato

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 22 (PIA) -- South Cotabato’s Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) chaired by Governor Arthur “Dodo” Y. Pingoy Jr. during its second quarter meeting on Wednesday passed two resolutions objecting the putting up of two camps in the province by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Senior Board Member Jose Madanguit, who was the proponent of the two resolutions, disclosed that the acts of the MILF was in violation of the present ceasefire agreement between the Philippine government and the MILF.

The first resolution specifically objected to the putting up of a camp at Tudok, T’boli, while the second resolution also objected the putting up of a satellite camp at Sitio Lampakpak, Lampari, Banga.

Both resolutions also called for the immediate dismantling of the two camps.

The move was prompted after the presentation of Lt. Col. Alexis Noel Bravo, commanding officer of the 27th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army based in the town of Tupi, confirming the presence of the MILF to set up camps in the province.

“The MILF 107th Base Command with a strength, more or less, of about 200 fully armed combatants, was responsible for setting up the camp in Tudok, T’boli,” Bravo added, ”but the camp is currently maintained by members numbering between 30 to 40 only.”

In Sitio Lampakpak, Lampari, Banga, the military has monitored around 11 fully armed members staying in the satellite camp.

Tupi Mayor Reynaldo Tamayo and Banga Mayor Henry Ladot, who were present during the meeting and whose municipalities bordered the MILF satellite camp, expressed their respective concerns regarding the situation and appealed for intervention, especially in the dismantling of the camp.

The satellite camp was previously occupied by the MILF, but dismantled about five years ago, which raised questions among PPOC members why the said group occupied it again.

In an interview with a radio station here today, MILF vice chairman Gadzali Jaafar confirmed that they have several camps in South Cotabato and the neighboring provinces of Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat.

He, however, cannot confirm the presence of the camps that were identified in the PPOC resolution.

Jaafar emphasized that residents in South Cotabato need not be concerned about the camps in the province because they respect the ceasefire agreement between the MILF and the Philippine government. (DED-PIA 12/ FS-SoCot-PIO)

DTI’s SME Caravan 2012 focuses on upgrading enterprises

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, Southern Mindanao April 21 (PIA) -- Once again, Sultan Kudarat province’s Department of Trade and Industry will gather micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) in Soccsksargen Region to help boost local enterprises.

This time though, preferred participants to the SME Caravan 2012 at the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Gymnasium in Isulan town on April 25 to 26 are those who have existing enterprises and are looking for means to improve their businesses.

Sultan Kudarat Trade & Industry Provincial Director Nelly Dillera said the SME Caravan 2012 aims to provide the local entrepreneurs with first hand information on entrepreneurship – from improvement of product to capacitating entrepreneurs.

“This year’s SME Caravan in Region 12 would help the growing number of entrepreneurs learn how to manage their businesses, access funds, maintain high level of product quality for food and enhance their awareness on sensing the right and legitimate local and international market opportunities,” Dillera said.

“There shall also be a topic on Tourism Product Identification and Development to aid the tourism officers and even landowners in identifying potential area for tourism development.”

Among the resource persons invited for the breakout sessions include Roberto Castañeda and Euclid Cezar.

Castañeda, who will share his knowledge on developing an entrepreneurial mindset and surviving pitfalls of small businesses, is the founder of the Don Roberto’s Winery, producer of the world’s first mango wine. Besides, its green mango and sweet mango wines, his company also produces brewed coffee wine.

Cezar, a professor of San Beda College – Manila, is a well-known business coach and host of “Super Entrepinoy” program. He is the owner of Ink More which sells ready-to-use ink cartridges.

“We want to benchmark what these entrepreneurs have done to be able to inspire our ‘kababayans’ to aspire to attain what these entrepreneurs have achieved,” Dillera said in an interview with a local radio station.

Other resource persons include Engr. Menandro Ortego, OIC Testing and Inspection Division of the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), who will discuss food safety assurance system; and Dennis Monong, assistant vice president for Mindanao operations of People’s Credit and Finance Corporation (PCFC) who will teach MSMEs how to find best financing for their businesses.

Side events such as trade fair of Region 12’s best products, market matching, product evaluation, design exhibit, online business name registration, and plant visit and assessment for the acquisition of Food and Drug License to Operate.

Dillera said preferred participants are entrepreneurs involved in the region’s priority industries like processors of coffee, muscovado, banana, coconut, bangus/fishery, crafts, bamboo, pangasius, rubber, palm oil, mango, ICT-BPO.

Dillera reported that number of new businesses in Sultan Kudarat has increased 84 percent, from 959 newly registered businesses in 2010 to 1,770 in 2011. Last year, 121 new entrepreneurs were created, which is 74 percent higher than the 107 new entrepreneurs in 2010.

This is a two-day activity for free but reservations must be made for pre-screening. Contact the nearest DTI office for details and reservations. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)

South Cotabato generally peaceful -- PNP

by (Fruto C. Sumagaysay Jr./DED-PIA 12/SoCot PIO)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 20 (PIA) -- “The peace and order situation in the province is generally peaceful, under control,” Police Senior Superintendent Randolf Delfin, South Cotabato Police Provincial Office (SCPPO) Provincial Director, during the 2nd quarterly meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting held on Wednesday in Koronadal City.

For the first quarter of the year, Delfin said, the province’s total crime volume was 793. Of this number 494 were cleared and 218 were solved.

PD Delfin said that the province’s crime rate in the first quarter of this year have reduced compared to last year in the same period.

Data indicated that the crime rate for the first quarter of 2012 averaged 31.9% versus 35.7% in the first quarter of last year, he reported.

Crime solution efficiency, he continued, increased from 25% in 2011 to 27.33% in 2012; crime cleared efficiency also increased from 53.33% in 2011 to 73.33% in 2012.

The SCPPO scored big in its campaign against illegal drugs with 33 persons arrested out of 18 operations conducted, and confiscating in the process illegal drugs (both marijuana and shabu) with an estimated DDB street value of more than P5 million .

In its campaign against wanted persons, 75 persons with warrants of arrest were apprehended while 18 financiers, coordinators or ushers were likewise arrested in its campaign against illegal gambling.

he SCPPO report further indicated that they were able to recover IEDs at Lamba, Banga and Magon, Tantangan early this year, and 18 low-powered and high-powered firearms which resulted in the apprehension of 12 suspects.

In their anti-carnapping campaign, the SCPPO were able to recover 15 motorcycles out of the 23 incidents reported, in which six cases have been filed in court.

RDRRMC, LGUs in Soccsksargen region discuss RA 10121

by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 19 (PIA) -- Local chief executives and LGU officials involved in disaster risk reduction and management across Soccsksargen region gathered here yesterday to discuss issues pertaining to the two-year old RA 10121 otherwise known as "Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010".

Jerome Barranco, assistant regional director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) 12, explained that the regional consultation organized by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) 12 was called to clarify issues regarding RA 10121.

He said there have been “varying interpretations of the new law resulting in either immediate or delayed establishment of the local DRRM (disaster risk reduction and management ) councils.”

“The latter was due to the hesitation or fear of violating audit and budget rules,” he continued.

He added that they brought together governors and mayors as well as chairpersons of local DRRMs and budget officers of the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani and the cities of Cotabato, Kidapawan, Tacurong, Koronadal, and General Santos City basically to increase local awareness on the DRRM law.

Objectives include orienting the LGUs on civil service guidelines pertaining to the establishment of DRMM offices and budgetary and audit guidelines on the allocation and utilization of the local DRRM funds.

Regional officials of the Civil Service Commission, Department of Budget and Management, and Commission of Audit were present to discuss the aforementioned issues with the LCEs and other LGU officials.

It was also a venue for the LGUs and local DRRM councils to learn from the successful experiences of some locally established DRRM offices, including South Cotabato and Sarangani provinces and Tupi municipality, Barranco further explained.

Tupi’s Barangay Poblacion’s DRRM Council of is a Gawad Kalasag National Awardee for its excellent implementation of disaster risk reduction and management plan and humanitarian assistance.

“The importance of disaster preparedness cannot be relegated to the backseat,” South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. said during his presentation of his provinces DRRM efforts.

He emphasized that the LGUs are primarily tasked with a great responsibility of protecting its inhabitants.

This is why, the said, South Cotabato LGU is set to organize disaster response teams from the grassroots.

At least 44 volunteers per barangay will be trained to improve the capability of the villages to respond to disasters and calamities, the governor added.

In 2011, South Cotabato’s provincial board passed SP Resolution 99 s. 2011 for the establishment of the provincial DRRM office, now being headed by the provincial administrator with initial designation of employees from the Disaster Management Section of the Disaster and Crisis Management Division of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office along with some employees under the Provincial Administrator’s Office.

“This was resorted to because there were no clear-cut guidelines covering the staffing requirements for the PDRRMO,” Gov. Pingoy reasoned.

As per section 21 of the RA 10121, “not less than five percent of the estimated revenue from regular sources should be set aside as Local DRRM Fund.”

Seventy percent of which can be allocated for “pre-disaster preparedness programs including training, purchasing life-saving rescue equipment, supplies and medicines, for post-disaster activities, and for payment of premiums on calamity insurance.”

“The remaining 30 percent shall be allocated as Quick Response Fund or standy-fund for relief and recovery programs.”

However, Pingoy pointed out, that the same law has not been clear about the 70 percent pre-disaster allocation.

“There have been discussions whether we are allowed to purchase rescue vehicles out of this fund.”

“We are happy to hear that we have with us DBM and COA,” he said. “Hopefully we will be enlightened on this problem.”

Meanwhile, Director Ronald I. Flores, civil defense executive officer of the Office of the Civil Defense central office who came here as guest of honor announced that the national government is on the final stage of putting up a guideline on the utilization of the Local DRRM Fund.

“In due time, the national council, especially the financial community of the national government will come up with a guideline on the utilization of the Local DRRM Fund,” Flores said.

“What is stipulated in the implementing rules and regulations related to RA 10121 is that the money can be used for preparedness, mitigation, and rehabilitation,” he said.

“This allows for a wide interpretation by the local government units, including the Commission on Audit which looks into out financial transactions.”

However, Flores assured that in the guideline that the national government will issue soon will be specific as to where these funds can be allocated.

He said the guideline is being prepared by the Department of the Interior and Local Government, DBM, Department of Finance, and OCD. Preparations for the said guideline, he added, was started after RA 10121 became a law on May 27, 2010.

NIA-12 honors outstanding irrigators in 34th anniv

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 18 (PIA) -- The National Irrigation Administration (NIA-12) celebrates its 34th founding anniversary this week with a lineup of several activities culminating in the awarding of outstanding irrigators’ associations, officials, and employees.

Eveyln Bragasin, information officer of NIA-12 said activities of the three-day celebration, which started yesterday, include sports competitions in volleyball, dart, badminton, and table tennis. She added that there shall also be cultural dance and choir competitions and Search for Miss NIA-12.

Outstanding irrigators’ associations, irrigation management office managers, operation and maintenance chiefs and employees will also be given awards on April 19 at the Notre Dame of Midsayap College Gymnasium in Midsayap, Cotabato. NIA administrator Antonio s. Nangel will be the guest of honor and speaker in the awards program.

Major awardees this year include Engr. C’zar M. Sulaik of North Cotabato as most outstanding Irrigation Management Office Manager, Engr. Gina L. Lozano as most outstanding operation and maintenance chief; Bulacanon IA, Inc. of North Cotabato as most outstanding irrigators’ association under the communal irrigation systems category and Napal-Conel Road IA, Inc. of General Santos City as most outstanding irrigators association for the national irrigation systems category.

Outstanding awardees for operation and maintenance are Engrs. Edna C. Bantala, irrigation superintendent of Libungan River Irrigation System; Flora May D. Respicio, principal engineer A of Mlang/Malasila Rivers Irrigation System; Rory F. Avance, principal engineer A of Kabacan River Irrigation System; Orlando A. Tibang, principal engineer A of Marbel-Banga Rivers Irrigation System; Julio L. Antenor, principal engineer A of Ala River Irrigation System and Cesar D. Agduma, principal engineer A of Lambayong/Tacurong River Irrigation System.

Mary Grace S. Gonzales of Mlang/Malasila Rivers Irrigation System will also receive recognition as outstanding senior water resource facilities technician.

NIA-12 will also honor irrigators' associations who have shown exemplary performance in the past year.

For its Club 100 Award, NIA-12 will honor 13 irrigators associations (IA) from the national irrigation systems and for the communal irrigation systems, 19 from North Cotabato area, 9 from Sultan Kudarat, 1 from Maguindanao and 9 from Sarangani.

“The Club 100 Award is given to IAs of national irrigation systems which has attained 100 percent collection efficiency for both wet and dry seasons with an average programmed area of 80 percent of the service area, average irrigated area for wet and dry seasons is 80 percent of the programmed area and the benefited area for dry and wet seasons is 80 percent of the irrigated area,” Bragasin explained.

It is also given to, “IAs of communal irrigation systems which have attained 100 percent or more Current Amortization Payment Efficiency with no back account or have fully paid their back account due.”

Four IAs in North Cotabato, two in South Cotabato, two in Sarangani and one in Sultan Kudarat have qualified for the Golden Star Award.

Moreover, Silver Star Awards will be given to two IAs in Maguindanao and one in Sultan Kudarat.

Bragasin explained that Golden Star Award is given to IAs from the national and communal irrigation systems which garnered the Highest Functionality Survey Rating (Outstanding Rating) while Silver Star Award is given to IAs from both national and communal irrigation systems with the Highest Functionality Survey Rating (Very Satisfactory Rating).

Buluan-Pigcawayan Irrigators Association, Inc. of North Cotabato will receive a special award for being a Hall of Famer in the Highest Functionality Survey Rating.

This year’s celebration theme is “Samahang NIA, IA at LGU Patuloy na Pagtibayin Upang Makamtan Sapat na Pagkain ng Pamayanan.”

According to the agency’s website, NIA-12 “formally started its operation as a region on April 10, 1978 with its office based at Villarica, Midsayap, North Cotabato.

“That time, it was composed of the provinces of North Cotabato, Maguindanao, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat. It had only four operational national irrigation systems, namely: Libungan, Kabacan, Mlang, and Malasila River Irrigation Systems.”

At present, NIA 12 covers the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sarangani, and Sultan Kudarat as well as the province of Maguindanao in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Among the guests expected to attend the awarding ceremony are North Cotabato 1st District Rep. Jesus N. Sacdalan, DA-12 Regional Executive Director Amalia J. Datukan, North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Mendoza, Midsayap Mayor Manuel M. Rabara, Libungan Mayor Manuel T, Dela Serna, Pigcawayan Mayor Roberto S. Blasé and Northern Kabuntalan Mayor Datu Ramil B. Dilangalen, Al Haj and Mr. Gerardo R. Barrientos, president of the Regional Confederation of Irrigators Association president. (DED-PIA 12)






South Cotabato fetes scholar graduates

by (PNA)

DCT/LOR/AVE/HST


GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The provincial government of South Cotabato recently honored at least 115 student-beneficiaries of its Kabugwason Paglaum Scholarship Program (KPSP) who have graduated from various colleges and universities in the area. Alex Basco, KPSP executive officer, said the local government feted the graduates in recognition of their hardships and perseverance in pursuing their studies in the past several years. He said the scholars received certificates of completion for completing the degree and non-degree programs they pursued. Of this year’s graduates, seven were from batch three and 26 from batch four of the degree category while 75 were from the sixth batch of the non-degree category. “Most of the graduates under the degree category took up courses in education, nursing, business administration, accountancy and engineering. For the non-degree category, most of the scholars took up computer-related courses,” Basco said. The official said the scholarship program has so far produced 41 four-year degree holders and 128 non-degree or ladderized program graduates. Basco said they have advised the program’s incoming scholars to take up courses or programs that have high employment demands such as mechanical engineering and electronics, agriculture, medical technology and pharmacy, among others. He said they dissuaded them from taking up courses that have been placed on moratorium by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), among them the nursing degree. The provincial government, which has institutionalized the scholarship program, has set aside an annual budget of P15 million for its implementation. Such budget is on top of its P9 million annual allocation for the grant-in-aid program for tertiary, secondary and elementary students as well as for short or modular courses for the out-of-school youths. Aside from the KPSP graduates, the local government also gave recognition to its six scholars who have completed their two-year Midwifery ladderized course at the University of the Philippines-Manila School of Health Sciences extension campus in Koronadal City. As part of the program, the six graduates will be taking a brief break to serve their communities before proceeding to the nursing course and medical degree later on.







No extension for filing of ITR – BIR

by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato , April 16 (PIA) -- Taxpayers only have until 12 midnight today, April 16, to file their income tax returns (ITR) and their will be no extension, an official of the Bureau of Internal Revenue here said.

Aileen Punzalan, assessment section chief of BIR Revenue District 111 (Koronadal City/South Cotabato), said, like other BIR offices across the region, their office will be open from 8:00 am in the morning until 12:00 midnight to cater to taxpayers who have waited for the deadline to file their respective ITRs.

BIR RD 111, along with other revenue district offices under BIR Revenue Region No. 18, last month began an information drive to urge taxpayers to pay their taxes ahead of the April 16 deadline.

“But we expect overcrowding in our office today,” she said, “which is why we extend office hours until midnight.”

This, she said, is also the subject of a directive from BIR Central office to all revenue district offices to hold office until midnight to be able to accommodate all taxpayers.

“Commissioner Kim Henares has already announced that there will be no extension of the filing of the ITR,” Punzalan pointed out.

In 2011, BIR in Soccsksargen Region collected a total of P4.4 billion and surpassed its annual target of P4.167 billion by 6.1 percent or P254.09 million.

BIR RR-18 regional director Rozil Lozares confirmed that 70 percent of these come from the taxes withheld from the income of local employees.

This year has started well for the regional revenue with the five revenue district offices collecting P794.225 M or 12.11 percent higher that their period target of P708.463 M.

Considering this performance of the revenue district office, Lozares said, exceeding the P5.126 billion 2012 target is most likely.

DA releases P6.9-M farm equipment to South Cotabato farmers

by (PNA

FFC/jfm/AVE/HST


GENERAL SANTOS City, April 15 (PNA) – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has released some P6.9 million worth of farm equipment to farmers’ groups in South Cotabato in a bid to further improve the area’s agricultural production. Amalia Datukan, DA Region 12 director, said the assistance was part of the ongoing implementation of the agency’s rice mechanization and post harvest facility assistance program, which was availed by irrigators associations and cooperative in the area. Datukan said it was also in line with the Agri Pinoy food staple sufficiency program pushed by DA Secretary Proceso Alcala. “President Benigno S. Aquino III had endorsed this program as one of his administration’s top priorities,” she said. Under the program, Datukan said South Cotabato received an allocation of 32 hand tractor units worth P3.95 million; 10 units of rice threshers worth P1.13 million; one unit of four-wheel drive tractor worth P761,117; and, nine units of multi-purpose drying pavement worth P1.125 million. The recipients were the Parbangon Irrigators Association of Barangay San Felipe in Tantangan; farmers group Komatiku of Barangay Sto. Nino in Koronadal City; Lower Tampakan Creek Irrigators Association of Barangay Concepcion in Koronadal City; SANISCA Irrigators Association Inc. of Barangay San Isidro in Koronadal City; PAGMACE Irrigators Association of Barangay Cabuling in Tantangan; Magic Flower Irrigators Association of Barangay GPS in Koronadal City; BINTIKU multi-purpose cooperative of Barangay Dajay in Surallah; SOCOSEPCO of Koroandal City; The Rice Field Irrigators Association of Barangay Carpenter Hill in Koronadal City; Country Folks Irrigators Assocaition of Bo. 3 in Banga; Modern Farmer Irrigators Association of Barangay San Isidro in Koronadal City; Siok Communal Irrigators Association of Koornadal City; Cabuling Agricultural Multi-Purpose Cooperative of Barangay Cabuling in Tantangan; and, San Felipe Irrigators Association of Barangay San Felipe in Tantangan are also beneficiaries. Datukan said the beneficiaries availed of the farm equipment through a cost-sharing scheme. She said the agency shouldered 85 percent of the costs while the beneficiaries contributed 15 percent as counterpart. The DA’s share for the total cost of the farm equipment was P6.09 million while the recipients’ share was P877,787. Datukan said the newly-released farm equipment was part of the P20 million worth of farm machineries earlier allocated for Region 12. Aside from South Cotabato, she said the agency also released 33 hand tractors, 11 threshers and two four-wheel drive tractors to beneficiaries in North Cotabato. They have allocated 34 hand tractors, 10 threshers and two four-wheel drive tractors to Sultan Kudarat as well as nine hand tractors and four threshers to Sarangani Province.

Motorcycles accidents on the rise in South Cotabato, neighboring areas

by (PNA)

FFC/AVE/AC


GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Health authorities have expressed alarm over the rising road or vehicular accidents involving motorcycles in South Cotabato province and the neighboring areas. Dr. Rogelio Aturdido, South Cotabato health officer, said their records showed that 256 road accidents had occurred in the province during the first three months of the year. He said 211 cases involved single motorcycles, 22 tricycles while the rest concerned four-wheeled vehicles. He said the victims comprised 218 drivers, 109 passengers and 87 bystanders who were either killed or sustained serious injuries. Of the injured victims, 153 sustained abrasions, 68 with lacerations and 17 with bone fractures. “The trend is currently going up and what is alarming here is that most of the drivers involved in these accidents were under the influence of liquor or alcohol,” Aturdido said. The official said 103 cases or 64 percent of the recorded road accidents in the province in the last three months took place in Koronadal City, South Cotabato’s capital and regional seat of Region 12 or the Soccsksargen Region. He said 52 road accidents were recorded in the city in January followed by 21 in February. In the first two weeks of March, Aturdido said the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital already recorded a total of 30 accidents in the area. He said reckless driving, over speeding, distraction from cellular phones and substance abuses were among the main causes of accidents that involved teenage drivers. Late last month, five people were killed while two others were injured when a multicab passenger van collided with a trailer truck along the national highway in Koronadal City. To help address the problem, Aturdido said they have sought assistance from the Department of Interior and Local Government to ensure the strict enforcement of road safety regulations in the area. He said they have also linked up with the Regional Development Council’s social development committee for the conduct of orientation-seminars on proper driving behavior among teen drivers in the area.

Shutdown of major dams in So. Cotabato to last only 3 months -- NIA

by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 13 (PIA) -- Shutdown of one of Soccsksargen region’s largest irrigation system will push through as planned starting May 1 but the National Irrigation Administration Office here announced that the closure would be shorter than what was originally planned.

In January, NIA-South Cotabato chief Engr. Ramon Bugacia and provincial agriculturist Reynaldo announced that the two dams of the Ala River Irrigation System (RIS) could be closed until end of August or September for major repairs intended to restore the crop watering system’s efficiency.

Yesterday, in an interview with a radio station here, Engr. Bugacia said, “NIA has made adjustments with the construction schedule” after a series of consultations with affected irrigators’ associations, Department of Agriculture – 12, provincial and municipal agriculture offices, and other stakeholders.

“So from the original plan of four months, total shutdown (of the operations of Ala RIS) has been reduced to three months,”

The two dams of Ala RIS, namely: Dam 1 in Colonggolo, Surallah in South Cotabato and Dam 2 in Bai Sirafinang, Bagumbayan in Sultan Kudarat, have a combined coverage area of 12,046 hectares.

He said, adjustments were made considering the effect of the total shutdown of the irrigation system on the livelihood of the farm families who will lose water supply while the dams are out of operations. According to a report from DA-12, at least 8,850 families are being served by the Ala RIS.

Bugacia explained the dams need to the totally shut down effective May 1 until July 31 because major repair and rehabilitation works will focus on the main diversions (dams) as well as the main canals.

He added, some repair works that would not require closure of the dams have begun.

Data from NIA indicated that P138,225,000 has been allocated by the national government for the rehabilitation of the Ala RIS.

“This is the first time that such amount was allotted to a project NIA-South Cotabato,” he said. Previously, he added, they only received P3 million to P6 million for irrigation development projects.

This would also be the first time that Ala RIS undergoes repair since its opening in 1972.

Repair works in the 40-year old dam, according to Bugacia, would cover protection works on the dams, repair of the mechanical systems that take care of the closing and opening of the water gates, rehabilitation of the main canals, and construction of additional structures and check structures that would extend the coverage area of the irrigation system.

In an earlier interview, provincial agriculturist Legaste assured residents and farmers of South Cotabato that the shutdown of the Ala RIS will result in food shortage in the province.

He explained that farmers in the province were able to immediately replant in January and February which assures of an earlier than expected harvest.

Also, of the 9,000 hectares in South Cotabato that would lose water supply, about 2,000 hectares can still be cultivated because they have alternative water sources.

Contingency plans have also been prepared for those who could not plant rice; these include planting of corn in coordination with hybrid corn companies as well as temporarily shifting to other crops such as watermelon, cantaloupe, and vegetables like okra, squash, upo, patola, and ampalaya.

Bugacia said rehabilitative works of Ala RIS are also set for implementation next year, but these would not require closure of the dams.

Local officials expect positive results from power summit

by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 12 (PIA) -- Officials in South Cotabato hope tomorrow’s Energy Summit in Davao City would end with solutions that would address the power crisis in Mindanao.

South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., Koronadal City Mayor Peter Miguel, and South Cotabato 1 Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO 1) General Manager Santiago Tudio said they will be attending the summit.

South Cotabato First District Representative, Daisy Avance-Fuentes has earlier announced in a radio interview that she will join the event.

Gov. Pingoy said, the presence of President Benigno Aquino III during the summit is a positive indication since he could personally join the discussion of the Mindanao energy shortage as well as the proposals to address the power crisis.

“Several proposals and measures will be presented. Hopefully, we will be able to take these up with the president,” he said.

In preparation for the summit, Mayor Miguel has asked city information officer Judith Amido, who also sits as a member of SOCOTECO 1’s board of directors for an in-depth discussion of the power situation particularly in South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.

He, however, pointed out that he has reservations regarding the suggestion of former Pangasinan Fifth District Representative Mark Conjuangco to put up a nuclear power plant in Lake Sebu.

“I did some research and talked with some Japanese regarding nuclear power plants,” he said.

“I am not in favor of the proposal,” he said, “because even Japan, which is a First World Country, has experienced radiation leaks due to the recent earthquake and tsunami.”

He said lives of millions of Filipinos could be compromised if a disaster like that in Japan occurs in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, GM Tudio said, SOCOTECO 1 supports the move of the Association of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperative (AMRECO) to oppose the privatization of the Pulangi Hydropower plants.

AMRECO with its 33 member electric cooperative plans to submit a position paper demanding transparency so that the public may know of the real situation regarding the availability of energy supply, especially the contracted capacity from the power generators of the National Power Corporation.

MinDA chair Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, announced everything is set for the Mindanao Energy Summit where 300 to 350 delegates are expected to attend.

MinDA and the Department of Energy spearhead the summit.

“The Power Summit accords us the opportunity to discuss the real Mindanao power situation and the specific short to long term measures that stakeholders wanted acted on jointly by the government and the industry players,”Antonino said.

Antonino said that no less than President Aquino has sought that proposed measures for resolving the Mindanao power problem and putting in place of long term action plan should form part of the shared consensus of the Mindanao stakeholders.

“This is being done for and by the Mindanawons who have a direct stake on the Mindanao power issue and what needs to be done, and the President will be there to see to it that the proposed measures are thoroughly studied and doables carried through,” she added.

Among those expected to take part in the one-day summit are heads and representatives of all electric cooperatives in Mindanao, distribution utilities, generation companies, governors and city mayors, Mindanao lawmakers, business and industry sectors, non-government organizations, civil society groups and consumer advocates.

Antonino said the Summit format was designed to provide opportunity for the key sectors and stakeholder representatives to present their respective issues and recommendations for way forward actions.

The President is expected to respond with specific policy directives.

Earlier today, PCOO Secretary Sonny Coloma confirmed President Aquino will attend and preside the summit.






Education remedies ignorance, poverty – VP Binay

by (Dani Doguiles and Roderick Beñez/PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 11 (PIA) -- Education remains the best way out of poverty and ignorance, said Vice President Jejomar Binay.

Vice President Binay was in Kabacan, North Cotabato yesterday as guest of honor during state-run University of Southern Mindanao’s 66th commencement exercises where he addressed 1,932 candidates for graduation.

“Kung nais nating maiahon sa kahirapan at kamangmangan, edukasyon nag-iisang tanging paraan,” he told the graduates.

“Ang lahat ay kailangang magsumikap. Ngunit kung ang walang sawang pagsusumikap ay sasamahan ng isang mahusay na edukasyon, labis na lumalawak ang nararating ang isang tao,” he said.

He also told graduates that finishing their courses comes with responsibilities to their families, the university and fellowmen.

“Ang tunay na saysay ng inyong pag-aaral ay nababatay sa kakayahan ninyong gamitin ang inyong dunong upang maglunsad ng inyong kakayahan,” he said.

Denying their service, he added, would make peace and progress elusive for themselves and the nation.

To be able to serve their families and the country, a graduate need not seek for remarkable opportunities, Vice President Binay pointed out.

For instance, he said, graduates could start by helping their parents send their younger siblings to school.

“Your challenge now is no longer defined by examinations, term papers, and reports,” he reminded the graduates, “You are now called to build your lives.”

Other guests of the graduation ceremony, which was led by USM president Dr. Jesus Antonio Derije, included North Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, local officials, and the university’s Board of Regents.

USM is considered one of the leading state universities in Mindanao and the entire country.

It has achieved excellence in agriculture education and most of its programs have achieved either Level II or Level III accreditation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), Inc.

Training of students here does not only focus on instructions but also incorporates the aspects of research, extension and production geared toward producing quality professionals who are globally competitive.

It is well-known to provide top-grade education in the fields of agriculture; arts and science; education; engineering and computing; human ecology and food sciences; industrial technology; business, development economics and management; public health; veterinary medicine; and Middle East and Asian studies.

DOST-12 rolls off “Agham at Teknolohiya sa Syudad”

by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/OLAbo/ DOST-12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 10 (PIA) -- DOST-12’s “Agham at Teknolohiya sa Siyudad” has gained ground in enhancing productivity of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Soccsksargen Region.

A project of the Department of Science and Technology – Region 12, Agham at Teknolohiya sa Lungsod was recently conducted separately in the cities of General Santos and Koronadal.

Under the project, consultancy services, labeling design development and technology needs assessment were extended to MSMEs engaged in organic fertilizer, tuna, bakery, squash turon and lumpia, and banana buchi, among others.

It was implemented under DOST’s umbrella program Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SET-UP) that aims to improve the productivity of small and medium industry players.

Summit Consultancy and Research Services, which was earlier tapped by the DOST-12 for the Manufacturing Productivity Expansion Program (MPEX), presented its findings and recommendations to improve the productivity of 15 firms identified under the program.

Their recommendations included acquisition or upgrading of machines, nutritional facts analysis, production lay-out improvement, and packaging or labeling design development.

They also recommended trainings on Good Manufacturing Practices for ten firms.

Other recommendations for MSMEs to undertake are energy audit, possible ultraviolet radiation, preventive maintenance, and materials management system, among others.

Some firms, on the other hand, have sought trainings on coconut syrup and accelerated vinegar production, bleaching and dyeing, waste management (vermi composting), and fiber extraction mechanization.

Other companies have developed possible linkages, such as one firm offering to supply organic fertilizers to Kablon Farms and RRR Engineering offering to fabricate stainless products for food processing companies.

Another one also offered to design and fabricate a sorter or conveyor for a coffee and a fiber processing ventures.

A technology needs assessment was likewise conducted to Juco Yummyzo Food Products and Pascual Bakery Equipment Services in Koronadal City as a pre-requisite to the availment of SET-UP assistance.

Dr. Zenaida P. HR Laidan, DOST-12 director, said they conducted the “Agham at Teknolohiya sa Siyudad” to support MSMEs in the region achieve higher income, generate more employment and penetrate global markets.

She added that such activity aims to sustain economic development in the countryside.

Smc Secures Clearance To Pursue New 3,000-mw Power Projects

by MYRNA M. VELASCO


Manila, Philippines - The power generation unit of San Miguel Corporation (SMC) has secured the go-signal of the Department of Energy (DOE) to proceed with grid impact studies (GIS) on six power projects across grids that will beef up its portfolio by additional 3,000 megawatts.

The GIS will have to be undertaken upon the energy department’s endorsement to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). It will determine if the proposed capacity of the project proponents can still be absorbed by the grid or if the transmission lines are capable of wheeling that capacity to the substations.

Based on documents culled from the energy department, SMC Global Power Holdings Corporation is proposing to construct 1,200-megawatt coal plant in Cavite; and another 600-MW coal-fired facility in Bulacan for the Luzon grid.

In the Visayas, SMC’s proposed greenfield power investments are 600-MW coal plant in Leyte and 150-MW coal plant in Panay. For the Mindanao grid, the company’s proposed coalfired plant ventures are 300 megawatts in Davao del Sur and, 150-MW in South Cotabato.

If the diversifying conglomerate is serious in pursuing all of these projects, it ought to face hurdles though in the market share caps prescribed under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) – which is equivalent to 30-percent of gridinstalled capacity; and 25-percent of national installed capacity. To date, SMC is already the biggest player in the power generation segment of the industry.

Documents also showed that the DOE has issued clearances to more than 30 power companies on their respective bids for GIS on proposed power projects.

As of end last year, the power companies allowed to proceed on their GIS include Palm Thermal Consolidated Holdings Corp. for its 100-megawatt coal power project in Iloilo; Global Business Power Corporation for 164-MW and 82-MW projects in Cebu and Iloilo; PhilNewEnergy Inc. for 40-50MW solar project in Alaminos, Pangasinan; 30-40MW solar project in Misamis Oriental and 40-50MW solar project in Davao; and Jobin-Sqm Inc. for its 100-MW Sta. Rita solar project in the Subic Bay freeport zone.

The others are Calamba Aero Power Corporation for a 120-170MW combined cycle power project in Calamba, Laguna; Cordillera Hydro Electric Power Corporation for its proposed 50-MW mini-hydropower project in Kapangan, Benguet; First Gen Corporation for a 300-MW midmerit power plant in Batangas; San Carlos Biopower Inc. for its 18-MW biomass facility in Negros Occidental; as well as those for Sta. Clara Power Corporation’s micro-hydropower projects in Danao, Bohol and Tinoc, Ifugao.

It has also been specified in the documents that the GIS clearance for the 600-MW coal power plant of GN Power was just issued by the energy department June 16 last year. This facility is expected on stream next year and will considerably shore up Luzon grid’s power supply.

Also in the roll of power firms already given the go-signal for grid impact study are San Jose I City Power Corporation for a 9.90-MW rice husk-fired power project; Aboitiz Power for its power barges 1 to 4 in Navotas; Global Green Power PLC Corporation for biomass projects of 17.5-MW in Nueva Ecija and 35-MW in Bukidnon; TeaM Energy Corporation for 382-MW each capacity expansion for its Pagbilao and Sual plants; FDC Utilities Inc. for a 300-MW power plant in Misamis Oriental; and Limay Energen Corporation for a 140-MW coal-fired facility in Bataan.

The other projects are those of PetroEnergy Resources Corporation; Energy Development Corporation; Agusan Power Corporation; PNOC Renewables and Philippine National Oil Company-Exploration Corporation; HydroCore Corp.; Vivant Corporation; E-Power Technologies Corp.; Kanan Hydroelectric Power Corporation; Green Energy Management Holdings Inc., Alternergy Philippine Holdings Corpration and Bell Pine Power Corporation. (MMV)

DOLE 12 trains women inmates in accessory making

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 8 (PIA) -- Female inmates of the North Cotabato Provincial Jail were recently trained in making ladies’ accessories to help them earn some income.

In a press release sent to the Philippine Information Agency 12 this week, Charmaine Ladot-Sonsona, information officer of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 12, said the training held on March 22 was spearheaded by the DOLE North Cotabato Field Office in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology as part of the Women’s Month celebration.

Skills training involved techniques on production of commercially viable accessories such as bracelets, earrings, and others.

Lorie Buday of Matalam LGU Cooperative, who served as trainer, assured the inmates of market for their products. She said the cooperative is willing to purchase the inmates’ finished product which will then be sold in livelihood and trade fairs.

North Cotabato Field Office chief Edna Sales urged the inmates who took part of the training to make this a livelihood opportunity.

She said the assistance was only the beginning of more assistance to the women inmates. Among the help that they could expect, Sales said, includes special program for the employment of students.

She added that children of inmates who would qualify will be given priority in SPES.

Meanwhile, acting provincial jail warden SInsp. Israel Arboleda was grateful that DOLE 12 initiated the livelihood training.

He said inmates are one of the most neglected in society and at times adjudged as criminals even before they are convicted.

With such, he is assured that these inmates will see the hope of living a decent life after their rehabilitation inside the jail.

After the training, inmates received starter kits for the production of ladies’ accessories for them to be able apply what they have learned and start a business. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/DOLE 12)

North Cotabato’s peace camps to reach 25,000 kids

by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12 with report from IDCD-Prov’l Governor’s Office)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 7 (PIA)-- At least 25,000 Grade V school children from 17 municipalities and lone city of North Cotabato are expected to participate in the second run of the province’s Gov. Lala Summer Kids Peace Camp.

This year’s three-day peace camps began in Pikit municipality on March 9 – 11 where 2,451 children joined. This was followed by peace camps in Aleosan town on March 15 – 17 and another one on March 19 – 21 in Magpet municipality.

More peace camps are scheduled after the Holy Week until May including camps in Antipas, Matalam, M’lang, Kabacan, Pigcawayan, Makilala, Arakan, Tulunan, Carmen, Banisilan, Alamada, Midsayap, Libungan, and Pres. Roxas municipalities and in Kidapawan City.

Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza initiated this program last year in partnership with the Department of Education to promote peace among residents of the province starting while they are still young as well as developing potential leaders among them.

It also aims to motivate children to get involved and affirm their commitment to the government, help them discover and enhance their abilities and realize their role in the community especially in the government’s goal towards lasting peace.

This is done by gathering Muslim, indigenous people and Christian children in camps where they are introduced to diverse cultures of the tri-people living in the province, taught leadership skills and important moral values and encouraged to involve in community development.

“There should be no discrimination. Everyone has an equal opportunity. No matter what the sexual orientation, tribe or religion. And if you have discipline in your studies, you will go far,” Gov. Mendoza told participants in one of the peace camps.

The lady governor also challenged the future leaders of the province to “put into practice what you learn during the summer kids peace camp and serve as role models to the younger pupils when you go back to school.”

Activities during the summer kids camp include lectures and group activities including leadership workshops, sports competitions, lectures on environment and climate change, life skills and emergency preparedness, as well as activities that promote understanding of each other’s social, cultural and religious diversity.

Campers were also given the chance to exhibit their talents and skills via a talent show and Pabonggahan Night and live theater presentation showcasing cultures in the province.

During the opening ceremonies of the summer kids peace camp in Magpet on March 19, Gov. Mendoza also turned-over a P3.5 million worth covered court to host Apostol Memorial Elementary School.

She explained this was an incentive to the school for hosting the same event last year.

The said project was funded in partnership with the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) Partylist whose representative, Congressman Raymond Mendoza, was also present during the turn-over ceremony.

N. Cotabato LGU hands over P29.7-M infra projects to municipalities

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 6 (PIA) -- At least P29.7 million worth of infrastructure projects were turned-over in March by the provincial government of North Cotabato to five of its municipalities.

Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza on March 10 handed over to the LGUs of Matalam and Carmen P17 million worth of infrastructure projects.

These included water systems worth P500,000 each for barangays Kilada ang Latagan as well as P500,000 multi-purpose buildings for barangays Marbel and New Abra, all in Matalam town.

Also turned-over were infrastructure projects to barangays in Carmen town. These include a P7-million concreting project of the Aroman-Lanoon road, P700,000 worth of one-classroom school building at Pebpoloan, and P983,159 power distribution line for barangay Kitulaan.

Other projects include a covered court in Carmen worth P2. 5 million, and a new rural health unit for barangay Poblacion built at P4 million.

“You are all accountable for the safekeeping of these projects. Use them for the benefit of the many and use them with care so that these projects can continue to provide service to the people in your barangays for a long time,” Mendoza said.

Turned-over projects in Aleosan town included a P1.2-million box culvert project charged against the province’s calamity fund in barangay New Panay, as well as concreting project of the public market worth P4.7 million and P5 million road concreting project in barangay Poblacion , which were both charged to the 20% economic development fund.

Baranay Malinga, Midsayap received a solar dryer worth P347,000, while barangays Renibon, New Igbaras, and Datu Binasing of Pigcawayan town received a P500,000 worth multi-purpose building each. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/LAF-IDCD-North Cotabato)

Wage hike in Region 12 seen before Labor Day

by Allen V. Estabillo


KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/4 Apr) – An increase in the daily minimum wage rates for private sector workers in Southwestern Mindanao is looming, officials said on Wednesday.

In a statement, Chona Mantilla, Department of Labor and Employment Region 12 director, said the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board, which she also chairs, recently decided to hike the floor pay from P10 to P14 a day.

She noted the latest salary increase, or Wage Order No. RBXII-17, may take effect before May 1 or Labor Day, a regular holiday to honor the workers.

Before it will be effective, it needs to be published in a local newspaper.

Under the new wage order, which will be implemented in two tranches, the daily minimum wage rates will range from P246 to P270.

The first tranche was expected to take effect before May 1 and the next on December 1, 2012.

In coming up with wage adjustment, the RTWPB decided to integrate the present P15 daily cost of living allowance (COLA) to the new basic wage.

The existing daily floor pay ranges from P234 to P260.

“The last wage order was issued more than one year ago and there being no petition, the RTWPB has resolved to review, motu propio (on its own), the existing minimum wage rates in the region,” Mantilla said.

Studies on the socio-economic condition in the region warranted the need to grant an increase in the minimum wage rates of private sector workers in Region 12 regardless of their position, designation or status of their employment, and irrespective of the method by which their wages are paid, Ms. Mantilla said

Also called the SOCCSKSARGEN region, Region 12 covers the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

The Wage Board conducted public consultations early this year in parts of the region to determine if a salary adjustment is needed for the area.

Alfredo Hebrona Jr., Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry governor for Southwestern Mindanao, declined to give a comment on the looming wage hike, saying he was not privy to the deliberation.

Jessie dela Cruz, RTWPB secretary, said that exemptions maybe granted to certain types of establishments, such as those distressed and those whose assets are not more than P3 million.

Following the public consultations early this year, Dela Cruz has said that the situation may not warrant an adjustment in the minimum wages of private sector workers, citing a report then by the National Economic and Development Authority that prices of basic consumer goods have remained stable.

Militant labor groups in the area since the past few years have demanded a legislated P125 across-the-board daily wage increase. (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)

Holy Week is time to reflect on Christ’s suffering and resurrection -- Bishop Gutierrez

by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 4 (PIA) -- Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez of the Diocese of Marbel urged believers of Christ, especially the Catholics , to spend the Holy Week in prayers, meditations and sacrifices rather than in vacations and merriment.

“This entire week should be devoted to remembering the suffering , crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ,” he said in an interview with a local radio station.

“All other weeks of the year, we do not celebrate the Paschal mystery, only this week,” he reminded them.

He said believers should spend this entire week to praise God the Father for giving his only Son Jesus Christ who offered Himself to be crucified on the cross for the salvation of humanity.

There is no better way to celebrate this, he added, but to reflect on the Jesus’s suffering on the cross and his rise to glory on Easter Sunday.

Bishop Gutierrez, however, asked believers to refrain from the traditional practice of some devotees to show their sacrifices by having themselves nailed on the cross.

Above all these, Bishop Gutierrez added, the entire Christendom should contemplate more on the glory of Christ’s resurrection.

In response, he pointed out, people should live with fear and faith on God by showing love and care for other people.

“After the Good Friday, Christ rose from the dead. He triumphed against death,” he said. “We should also change. We should also overcome.”

Easter should also be a time to give attention to the protection of the Mother Earth.

He said, by giving importance and taking care of the Mother Earth, we show love for humanity as well as prepare the Earth for the future generation.

TESDA specialistas in Soccsksargen gain ground

by (with report from Rolly Palencia/TESDA 12) (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 3 (PIA) -- Barely three months from its launching, Region 12’s TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Program (TSTP) has shown promise as a source of income among technical vocational education and training (TVET) graduates.

A press release from the office Technical Education and Skills Development Authority regional direct Zeus Ampuyas on Monday said, 130 organized TSTP entrepreneurs in three provinces and one city have already earned a total income of P259,340.

Overall, TESDA Specialistas have served 893 clients in various service categories such as beauty care and wellness, caregiving, building/house repair maintenance, computer hardware servicing, appliance repair, catering/food and beverage servicing to automotive and small engine servicing, Ampuyas said.

Areas where TESDA Specialistas are now operating include North Cotabato, South Cotabato, and Sarangani-General Santos.

Ampuyas said, in the past three months they monitored the activities of the techno-entrepreneurs to determine if the purpose of the program has been achieved as evidenced by income per aggrupation.

Results of the monitoring indicated that of the seven service categories, building/house repair and maintenance has the highest average income which reached P43,126.67, followed by beauty care and wellness services which is P41,780.00. The third highest earning category was computer hardware services which accumulated income amounting to P15,100.00.

The rest of the service categories are also picking well in terms of earnings, the report said.

Ampuyas said that the income earned by the TESDA Specialistas in the last three months is an indication that the “newly launched program has started creating awareness and gaining support from the people in the community.”

“Money has also started to fill up the TESDA Specialistas’ purse as they render their services to their valued customers.”

TSTP was designed out to address problem of limited job opportunities in the market by assisting the unemployed or underemployed TVET graduates for them to be able to have a chance to be economically stable.

Under the program TESDA facilitates the organization of trained and certified TVET graduates with related skills to be productive into groups called TESDA specialistas who provide technical services for affordable fees in communities where they operate.

TESDA provides them with a TESDA Nurturer to guide and mentor them as well as link with the local government unit for possible support such as operation center and advertisement in the locality.

Those interested to be a TESDA Specialista, they may inquire from the TESDA Provincial Offices near their area for a detailed information.

Households and individuals who would like to avail of the services of the techno-entrepreneurs may contact their local government officials or the local office of TESDA.

PNP 12 on alert for the Holy Week

by (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 2 (PIA) -- South Cotabato’s police force has been put on heightened alert for the celebration of the Holy Week, P/SSupt. Randolph Delfin, police provincial director said.

Delfin said, as early as two months ago, in accordance with a directive from the Police Regional Office, he ordered all police chiefs under his jurisdiction to plan out and strengthen security measures for the summer vacation.

“Included in this are the security measures for the celebration of the Holy Week as well as those intended to keep vacationers safe,” Delfin said.

As in other important events, he said, police personnel will be deployed in public convergence places, such as terminals, churches, malls, supermarkets and others.

Security in the popular tourist destinations in the province, including Lake Sebu and the famous Seven Falls zip line, will also be increased with the expected influx of visitors coming to these areas.

“We are also intensifying our checkpoints in the province’s entry and exit points,” he added.

Meanwhile, Land Transportation Office – 12 regional director Arlan Mangelen said they are putting up assistance centers along major roads in the region to help motorists and travellers.

“Our focus during the Holy Week is safety and protection of the traveling public,” he said.

Mangelen added that starting Wednesday, they are temporarily suspending their anti-colorum operations to be able to concentrate on the Operation Semana Santa.

LTO has also reminded motorists to meticulously prepare for the expected long travels. According to the agency, drivers should check BLOWBAGETS or battery, lights, oil, water (radiator & wiper washer), brakes, air pressure, gas, early warning device, tools, and self.

Koronadal City turns dark for an hour

by Danilo E. Doguiles


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato , Apr. 1 (PIA) -- A large part of Koronadal city turned dark as thousands of households joined the Earth Hour last night.

From 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., households, offices, government offices, malls, public switched their lights and other electric-powered appliances off .

Streetlamps were also turned off. Even motorists turned their vehicle’s lights to support to the global campaign.

The Earth Hour celebration here led by Mayor Peter B. Miguel, other local government officials and the city environment office started with an eco-invocation and ecumenical prayer at the city’s government center in Carpenter Hill.

Other highlights leading to the 8:30 p.m. Earth Hour, included the signing of a manifesto in support to efforts against global change, and a symposium on the science of climate change and how to solve climate change.

At around 6:30 p.m. participants who gathered in front of the Gaisano Grand Mall either joined the 3.5-kilometer Earth Hour Biking or Earth Hour 2012 Night Walk to Ace Centerpoint Supermarket at the center where the main program was held.

At exactly 8:30 p.m. candles were lighted as the electric lights were turned off.

Meanwhile, the local electric distributor South Cotabato 1 Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO) 1 implemented a 30-minute power shut-off also in support of the campaign.

However, General Manager Santiago Tudio said, since the activity is voluntary, brownout was only enforced in the areas where the main activities was held, specifically Feeders 11, 22, and 33.

Earlier last week, South Cotabato Gov. Pingoy Y. Pingoy Jr. released a memorandum to employees of the provincial government to support the campaign. He also called on mayors in the province to encourage participation in their respective areas of responsibilities.

Besides , Koronadal City and neighboring towns in South Cotabato, General Santos City and the province also joined the country and the world in the symbolic 60-minute turning off of electricity.

Both General Santos City Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio and Sarangani province Gov. Migs Dominguez led the Earth Hour campaigns. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)


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