Difference between revisions of "Misamis Occidental News"

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==DOH-CHD system donates to ‘Sendong’ victims in NorMin==
*Source: http://pia.gov.ph/?m=7&r=r10&id=70362
*Saturday, December 31, 2011
:by  Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec.31 (PIA) – Various forms of assistance have been extended by the Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) system to the Typhoon Sendong victims in Northern Mindanao.
One such form was the turn-over of some P2,026,923.08 worth of drugs, medicines and medical supplies to DOH-CHD, region 10, by Health Secretary Enrique Ona, when he visited the evacuation centers (EC’s) of Cagayan de Oro (CDO) and Iligan City, last Dec. 28.
The said amount has brought to P4.02 million the assistance that have been extended by DOH-CHD 10 to the ‘Sendong’ victims in the region.
The assistance from Secretary Ona was actually for augmentation of the P1,152,235 that DOH Northern Mindanao has spent for the victims, immediately after the tragedy.
Initial expenditure of DOH-CHD 10 was for the purchase of medicines, cadaver bags, water containers, water tankers and the conduct of coordination meetings with other government and non-government organizations (GO/NGO) to address the health problems of the victims in the evacuation centers.
Aside from DOH Central Office, the other DOH-CHD Regional Offices also sent donations for the needed augmentation for medicines and food supplies in the following amounts:
CHD-Metro Manila, P190,255, CHD-4B, P103,541.63, CHD-8, Eastern Visayas, P72,715.60, CHD-9, Zamboanga, P37,000 and CHD-13, Caraga, P436,000.
Meanwhile, Dr. Dave Mendoza, Chief of the Regional Epidemiology, Surveillance and Disaster Response Unit (RESDRU) of DOH-CHD-10 said donations by the other CHD’s also took the following forms:
Water, Sanitation and Health (WASH) from CHD-5, Bicol Region, Surveillance in Post Extreme Emergencies in Disaster (SPEED) Teams from CHD- 11, Davao and Management of the Dead and Missing (MDM)Team from CHD- 7, Central Visayas.
Augmentation of cadaver bags and of Psychological and Medical Teams from CHD-9, Zamboanga, three (3) drums of Salycilic Acid ointment and nine (9) boxes of relief goods by CHD 6, Ilo-ilo, and augmentation of SPEED teams, also by CHD-13, Caraga.
Coordination with international organizations and local government units (LGU) such as, Pangantucan, Baungon and Libona, Bukidnon was also done relative to the augmentation of medicines, water containers, cadaver bags and medical mission and relief operation, Mendoza added. (PIA-10 Mis. Occ.)


==Donations to ‘Sendong’ victims in NorMin reach P37.84-M==
==Donations to ‘Sendong’ victims in NorMin reach P37.84-M==
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Relatedly, Caňeda said the Department of Agriculture (DA) also donated/distributed the following food items to the ‘Sendong’ victims in Barangays Kauswagan, Bulua, Iponan, and Canitoan, all of Cagayan de Oro City:
Relatedly, Caňeda said the Department of Agriculture (DA) also donated/distributed the following food items to the ‘Sendong’ victims in Barangays Kauswagan, Bulua, Iponan, and Canitoan, all of Cagayan de Oro City:
Used clothing, 32 sacks/7 boxes, sardines and instant noodles, 18 boxes, each, sugar, four (4) bags, vegetables, two (2) sacks, and packed goods, 38 packs. (PIA-10 Mis. Occ.)
Used clothing, 32 sacks/7 boxes, sardines and instant noodles, 18 boxes, each, sugar, four (4) bags, vegetables, two (2) sacks, and packed goods, 38 packs. (PIA-10 Mis. Occ.)


==DA cites GO HERMIE Organic Vegetable Production in Mis. Occ==
==DA cites GO HERMIE Organic Vegetable Production in Mis. Occ==

Revision as of 15:45, 31 December 2011

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Province of Misamis Occidental - Archived News

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.
Nophoto.gif
Misamis Occidental

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.

DOH-CHD system donates to ‘Sendong’ victims in NorMin

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec.31 (PIA) – Various forms of assistance have been extended by the Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) system to the Typhoon Sendong victims in Northern Mindanao. One such form was the turn-over of some P2,026,923.08 worth of drugs, medicines and medical supplies to DOH-CHD, region 10, by Health Secretary Enrique Ona, when he visited the evacuation centers (EC’s) of Cagayan de Oro (CDO) and Iligan City, last Dec. 28. The said amount has brought to P4.02 million the assistance that have been extended by DOH-CHD 10 to the ‘Sendong’ victims in the region. The assistance from Secretary Ona was actually for augmentation of the P1,152,235 that DOH Northern Mindanao has spent for the victims, immediately after the tragedy. Initial expenditure of DOH-CHD 10 was for the purchase of medicines, cadaver bags, water containers, water tankers and the conduct of coordination meetings with other government and non-government organizations (GO/NGO) to address the health problems of the victims in the evacuation centers. Aside from DOH Central Office, the other DOH-CHD Regional Offices also sent donations for the needed augmentation for medicines and food supplies in the following amounts: CHD-Metro Manila, P190,255, CHD-4B, P103,541.63, CHD-8, Eastern Visayas, P72,715.60, CHD-9, Zamboanga, P37,000 and CHD-13, Caraga, P436,000. Meanwhile, Dr. Dave Mendoza, Chief of the Regional Epidemiology, Surveillance and Disaster Response Unit (RESDRU) of DOH-CHD-10 said donations by the other CHD’s also took the following forms: Water, Sanitation and Health (WASH) from CHD-5, Bicol Region, Surveillance in Post Extreme Emergencies in Disaster (SPEED) Teams from CHD- 11, Davao and Management of the Dead and Missing (MDM)Team from CHD- 7, Central Visayas. Augmentation of cadaver bags and of Psychological and Medical Teams from CHD-9, Zamboanga, three (3) drums of Salycilic Acid ointment and nine (9) boxes of relief goods by CHD 6, Ilo-ilo, and augmentation of SPEED teams, also by CHD-13, Caraga. Coordination with international organizations and local government units (LGU) such as, Pangantucan, Baungon and Libona, Bukidnon was also done relative to the augmentation of medicines, water containers, cadaver bags and medical mission and relief operation, Mendoza added. (PIA-10 Mis. Occ.)






Donations to ‘Sendong’ victims in NorMin reach P37.84-M

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 29 (PIA) -- Around Php37.84 million worth of assistance was extended to the victims of Typhoon Sendong in Northern Mindanao, as of Dec. 28. Of this amount, Php32.24 million came from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Php1.94 million from the local government units (LGU) and Php3.66 million from other government offices and non-government organizations. Data at the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC), region 10, show that as of the period, Typhoon Sendong has affected a total of 63,799 families with 358,924 members from 179 barangays of Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte and Misamis Oriental. One-hundred six (106) of the affected barangays are in Misamis Oriental, broken down as follows: Cagayan de Oro City, 41, Opol, 19, Manticao, 13, Lugait, 10, El Salvador, 9, Tagoloan, 7, Naawan, 6, and Kinoguitan, 1. Iligan City in Lanao del Norte had 28 affected barangays, while Bukidnon had 45 barangays: Baungon, 16, Libona, 14, Valencia City, 10 and Malitbog, Cabanglasan, Manolo Fortich, Talakag and Impasug-ong, one (1) barangay, each. At least 22 evacuation centers (EC’s) have been established for the ‘Sendong’ victims in Cagayan de Oro City and 20 others for the victims in Iligan City. The RDRRMC data also show ‘Sendong’ injured 839 persons. It also killed 1,119 individuals in the three (3) provinces, of which only 339 have been properly identified, as of press time. Again, of those who died, 676 came from Cagayan de Oro City, 398 from Iligan City and 45, from Bukidnon, Regional Director Ana Caňeda of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), region 10, said. Meanwhile, Caňeda said that as of Dec. 27, donations from the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), through DSWD-10, amounted to Php 5.46 million. This assistance from the Spanish AECID came in the form of relief goods, such as, instant coffee, corned beef, sardines, instant noodles and bottled drinking water, Regional Director Ana Caňeda of OCD-10 said. Relatedly, Caňeda said the Department of Agriculture (DA) also donated/distributed the following food items to the ‘Sendong’ victims in Barangays Kauswagan, Bulua, Iponan, and Canitoan, all of Cagayan de Oro City: Used clothing, 32 sacks/7 boxes, sardines and instant noodles, 18 boxes, each, sugar, four (4) bags, vegetables, two (2) sacks, and packed goods, 38 packs. (PIA-10 Mis. Occ.)

DA cites GO HERMIE Organic Vegetable Production in Mis. Occ

by Pat Nano


CLARIN, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 28 (PIA) – The Provincial Office of the Department of Agriculture (DA) thanked Gov. Herminia Ramiro for initiating a program in organic farming in the province. Because of the program, many farmers were encouraged to use organic materials as fertilizers in their farms, Agnes Butalid, Municipal Agriculture Officer (MAO) of Clarin, said. The campaign to use organic fertilizers has been started by DA a long time ago because of its benefits. It needs low capital to produce the organic fertilizers, it can help protect the environment, it gives back to the soil its own fertility and it helps improve the health of the people who eat agriculture products raised by organic fertilizers. What is lamentable, however, is that organic farming has not been adopted by many farmers because of the problem of fertilizer production and because most farmers want quick solutions and so they use inorganic fertilizers and pesticides instead of organic fertilizers. “This was because the farmers probably were not aware of the disadvantages of using commercial fertilizers, not only to the soil, but also to the environment and to the people’s health,” Butalid said. The initiative of the provincial government had been a great help to strengthen DA’s campaign for organic farming whose workers are always there to give technical support and inputs to the farmers. Some of these inputs come in the form of seeds and organic fertilizer production to be given to the farmers associations in the entire province. The GO HERMIE Organic Vegetables Production Contest that was conducted provincewide was also one way to encourage the farmers to use organic fertilizers in their vegetable gardens, Butalid added. (PIA-10 Mis. Occ.)

PNoy allocates P150M for 1,000 units of water level sensors in 18 river basins nationwide

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 26 (PIA) -- At least 1,000 units of the automatic water level sensors worth P150 million will be established in 18 river basins nationwide. This was announced by President Benigno S. Aquino III when he visited the victims of tropical storm Sendong in Cagayan de Oro City last week. “Palalakasin natin ang sistema upang mas malinaw na matukoy kung gaano karami at kalakas ang buhos ng ulan. (We will strengthen the system so that we will know and accurately measure the volume of rainwater),” the President said. As of the President’s visit, a total of 10,877 houses in Northern Mindanao were damaged by ‘Sendong.’ Of this figure, 4,657 houses were totally damaged and 6,338 were partially damaged, affecting 29,484 families or 35,585 individuals. The President also said Cagayan de Oro River in Misamis Oriental is one of the river basins where the water level sensors will be established. According to the Regional Development Plan of Region 10, the Cagayan de Oro River, whose catchment area is about 1,363 sq. km. is included in Package III of the Master Plan and Feasibility Study of Flood Control and Drainage Projects of Selected River Basins Nationwide. The plan aims to establish a flood control policy, strategy, target design, flood magnitude and main works and to identify alternative flood mitigation measures. It is also aimed at the formulation of a flood control project implementation and prioritize projects based on technical, economic, social and environmental feasibility. Its proposed structural measures include increasing its flow capacity by constructing a dike/river wall and deepening and widening the channel. Another is retarding the basin by constructing a dam for flood water storage, lowering the flood discharge, constructing a revetment and spur dike to protect the river against scouring, erosion and bank collapse. The non-structural measures to be put up in place include the preparation of an inundation map, plan of community-based flood early warning system and recommendation for a watershed management and flood plain management system or zoning. (PIA-Mis. Occ.)

Talakag Irrigation Project Phase II gets RDC-X approval

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 25 (PIA) – The Regional Development Council, Region 10 (RDC-X) favorably approved the proposal to implement the Php493.44M Talakag Irrigation Project (TIP) Phase II, after seeing that the project concurs with the Regional Development Plan of Northern Mindanao. As explained by Mayor Nova Princess E. Parojinog –Echavez of Ozamiz City, Chairperson of RDC-X Infrastructure Committee, during the 90th Full Council Meeting held in Tangub City, recently, the pre-construction activities for the TIP Project, with a designed area of about 2,500 hectares was started by the National Irrigation Authority (NIA-X) in 1985. Echavez said the total cost of TIP Phase I was about Php490M, but construction of the dam and field office started only in 2004 with an initial funding release of Php30M sourced from the General Appropriation Act (GAA). The main bulk of the budget for the project was released in 2009 in the amount of Php356.357M to cover the construction of its major components, such as, the main canal and the diversion dam at Batang River. As of June 30, 2011, overall physical accomplishment was about 75 percent with total funding allocation of Php458.25M. To date, TIP Phase I is irrigating an area of about 700 hectares. The remaining works to complete Phase I are the construction of lateral canals. Meanwhile, the proposed TIP Phase II is an integral part of the TIP Phase I and is supportive of the agenda of the national government of rehabilitation and restoration of small irrigation projects anchored on attaining self-sufficiency and surplus in rice by increasing the level of irrigation development. The project is also in line with the policy adopted in the 2011-2016 RDP of region10 of providing infrastructure support, such as, irrigation projects to create more jobs and spur economic activities within the localities. The TIP Phase II aims to irrigate 1,995 hectares to benefit nine (9) barangays in the municipality of Talakag, Bukidnon, and employs 112 potential beneficiaries during the wet season and 94 beneficiaries during the dry season. “With the project, there will be an increase in agricultural productivity, and income of the farmers, which is supportive of the national objectives of poverty reduction, employment generation and income redistribution,” Echavez said. The project, likewise, envisions to assists the farmers to become micro-entrepreneurs by enhancing the capability of organized group of farmer beneficiaries to form into cooperatives. A gravity type of irrigation system,TIP Phase II located in the municipality of Talakag, Bukidnon and its major components include the construction of the main canal and lateral canals, project facilities, service/access roads, road-right of way acquisition and institutional development program. The canal system involves the construction of 16 km. main canal and 14 km. lateral canals with the conveyance structure constructed and interconnected by main canals, lateral canals and main farm ditches to service the 1,995 hectares potential irrigable areas. The existing field office constructed in 2004 shall be renovated and extended to serve as the venue for the technology and skills advancement training center of the farmer-beneficiaries. The total cost of the TIP Phase II is Php493.44 million to be sourced from the GAA with the construction period estimated to be completed in two (2) years. The RDC-X, therefore, has advised NIA-X to ensure the timely implementation of the project to mitigate the effect of the possible increases in cost or decreases in benefits, adding that delays in the implementation would translate to additional cost for the project. (PIA-10 Mis. Occ.)





More returning OFW’s in Mis. Occ. avail of OWWA’s “pangkabuhayan” program

by Pat Nano


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 19 (PIA) –- Another group of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW’s) in the province have been benefitted by the “Balik-Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay” (BPBP) Program of Overseas Workers’ Welfare Administration (OWWA). The said program is undertaken by OWWA in cooperation with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Provincial Government. Provided under the BPBP “Pagkabuhayan” or livelihood package were some kitchen utensils and other cooking equipment, such as, streamers, food keepers, etc. which are needed in preparing snacks and viand for sale. It can be recalled that 26 OFW’s were given the same cooking equipment, after they successfully underwent a two-day training in cooking and snacks preparation under the BPBP Pangkabuhayan or livihood program of OWWA and DOLE, last August. Meanwhile, Luz Buaquiňa, Manager of the Public Employment and Services Office (PESO), thanked the officials of OWWA and DOLE, in region 10, including the provincial leaders headed by Governor Herminia Ramiro for the help that they extended to the returning OFW’s of the province. “The livelihood projects for the returning OFW’s under the Balik Pinay-Balik Panapbuhay Program has really helped their families,” Buaquiňa added. (PIO/PIA-10 Mis. Occ.)

Oroquieta residents avail of medical,dental outreach mission

by Pat Nano


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 16 (PIA) -- Thousands of residents, here, have again availed of the Medical and Dental Outreach Mission of Governor Herminia Ramiro. This time, the beneficiaries came from the central barangays of the city, particularly, that which played host of the Misamis Occidental National High School (MONHS), venue of the mission and that of Barangay San Vicente. Residents of the area thanked the Governor for the choice of their barangay among the many that also wanted to have the mission done in their area. The Governor, however, gave the assurance that all areas of the city will be covered by the outreach mission, following a certain schedule. (PIO/PIA-Mis. Occ.)




Ozamiz Local PMC monitors Php173.49M-worth of infra projects

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 15 (PIA) -– At least 12 infrastructure projects worth Php173,492,568.29, involving a length of 10.7574 km., have been monitored by the Local Project Monitoring Committee (PMC) of Ozamiz City. This was revealed by Mayor Nova Princess E. Parojinog-Echavez who said the money used for nine of the projects were sourced from national funds while three others were from local funds. Echavez also said five of the projects were on the preventive maintenance/ asphalt overlay of the Pagadian-Ozamiz Road, three were on the construction/ improvement of the drainage system, two were on the construction of by-pass roads, and one each, was on road rehabilitation and office improvement. Per PMC Form 1-2 of the Physical and Financial Report for Capital Investments Program, seven of the projects were already completed while five others were still on-going, as of the first semester of the year. Meanwhile, the said PMC Report show that the following projects along the Pagadian-Ozamiz Road with their corresponding lengths and project costs have already been completed:Barangay Labinay-Diguan Section, 0.85 km., Pph15M, Diguan-Tabid Section, 0.70 km., Php17.5M, Tabid-Dimaluna SectionPhp15M, Dimaluna-Pulot Section, 0.69 km, Php12.5M, and Bongbong-Baňadero Section, 0.69 km., Php12.5M. Also completed was the construction of the Ozamiz City-Sinacaban, Misamis Occidental Mountain Road, 2.0 km., Php20M, and the improvement of the City Engineering Office (CEO) Compound at Aguada St., Ozamiz City, Php2.0M. The on-going projects are as follows: Construction of the Ozamiz City-Coastal By-Pass Road, 1.68 km., Php50M, and rehabilitation/improvement of the Aguada-Bangkal Airport Road, 1.96 km., Php20M. Construction of road crossing/reinforced concrete pre-cast structure (RCPC) and drainage canal along Doňa Consuelo Road., 0.5520 km., Php3.46M. Construction/improvement of drainage canal along the Immaculate Conception College (ICC) Village, including RCPC road crossing structure at Barangay Manilgcol, 0.1877 km, Php1.59M, and improvement of drainage canal along Laurel-Burgos-Bernad Sts., 0.5977 km., Php3.95M. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

Council OKs P365-M invest plan

by MIKE U. CRISMUNDO


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines – The Regional Development Council (RDC-Region 10) in Northern Mindanao has unanimously endorsed the P365.58-million Regional Development Investment Program (RDIP) for 2012-2016, in an effort to spur the economic development in the region, officials disclosed Monday.

The favorable budget endorsement of the RDIP for 2012-2016 is part of the Philippine Investment Plan (PIP), Philippine Development Plan (PDP) and Regional Development Plan (RDP), and in line with Memorandum Circular No. 3 in coordination with the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA).

The endorsement was made during last week’s 90th RDC Full Council Meeting in Tangub City in Misamis Occidental.

The total investment requirements per RDP Chapter Title are as follows: Governance and Peace and Order, P335.21 million; Access, Logistics and Other Infrastructure Services, P268,415.55 million; Trade, Industry and Tourism, P610.94 million; Environment and Sustainable Development, P1,069.84 million; Well-Being and Improved Welfare, P34,873.53 million; Agriculture and Fishery, P45,578.26 million; Education and Youth Empowerment, P14,098.49 million; and Science and Technology, P601.09 million.

These amounts reflect the investment requirements regardless of financing, as presented during the RDC-X Executive Meeting, but may change, subject to a final submission of the respective national government agencies (NGAs), government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs).

The RDIP is an accompanying document of the RDP that includes the priority programs and projects (PAPs) that contribute to the societal goals and outcomes spelled out in its Results Matrices regardless of financing from the national government, local government units (LGUs), private sector, public-private partnerships, and those that require national government equities, subsidies and guarantees.

It is also an instrument to monitor government targets, commitments and resources for the region over the medium- term, said Region 10 NEDA Regional Director Engr. Leon M. Dacanay, Jr., in a press statement.

Dacanay said it is logical that during the annual budgeting, NGAs, GOCCs and SUCs should ensure that the national programs and projects included in the budget are linked to the RDP and are included in the RDIP.

The RDC-10 adopted the guidelines for the formulation of the RDIP, during its recent full council meeting, and the draft RDIP of the respective NGAs, GOCCs and SUCs were presented to the respective committees for their scrutiny, after which the revisions and additional plans were summarized.

Meanwhile, the economic development in Butuan is being strengthened by implementing and structuring more infrastructure projects that will support the business community and incoming investors, both foreign and domestic, to spur the growing economic activity in this region’s frontier and capital city by the year 2012-2013 and beyond.

The city government, along with concerned national government agencies will build at least a 2,000 meter-long harbor in Barangays Lumbocan and Masao and upgrade the existing airport that can accommodate bigger and more aircraft in all weather-type of operations even during night time.

More new and rehabilitation of roads and bridges, especially farm-to-market roads are also in the priority program that will help the rural businesses and farmers in bringing their products to the market.

The city government is also prioritizing water supply system project, the full implementation of the rural energy development, social and sports complex, comprehensive drainage system, solid waste management cum organic farming program, other multi-modal transport development, heritage waterways development, investment and tourism promotion, housing program, rehabilitation of old roads and bridges and completion of south market.

The public-private-partnership or PPP projects with Japanese group and other foreign investors will be also strengthened in 2012-2013 and beyond.

MDC tops list of Barangay Development Projects in Ozamiz

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 10 (PIA) -– At least 12 out of 36 barangay development projects in the city were used in the construction /repair/completion of their Manpower Development Center (MDC). This was revealed by Mayor Nova Princess E. Parojinog-Echavez, who said the money spent for these projects were taken from the City’s 20% development fund. She said each of the city barangays was allocated Php50,000, which they may use for their barangay development projects. So far, only 36 out of 51 barangays have already submitted their Barangay Development Plans, as this is among the requirements before such fund is released,” the Mayor said. Meanwhile, she said the following barangays have already used their allocation for the corresponding projects: Barangays Labinay, Litapan, Bacolod, Gango, Lam-an, Tinago, Balintawak, Cavinte , Cogon , Capucao C, Stimson Abordo and Molicay, for the construction /repair/completion of their Manpower Development Center. Pulot, Carangan, Malaubang, Dalapang, Kinuman Sur, Labo, Manaka and Sinuza, for road concreting/repar/gravelling /rehabilitation. Dimaluna, Capucao P, Kinuman Norte and Baňadero for the improvement/renovation of their Health Center and Livelihood Kabuhayan Center. Calabayan, Doňa Consuelo, Baybay San Roque, Guimad, Sangay Daku and Trigos, for the construction/improvement/rehabilitation of their Multi-Purpose Hall. Bongbong and Maningcol, for improvement of drainage system and construction of canal. Bagakay, Gotokan Diot, Baybay Triunfo and Catadman for spring and water development, repair of public toilet and installation of shallow well and concrete flower pots. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

Feature: Welcome to Tangub City, the Christmas Symbols Capital of the Philippines

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 7 (PIA) -- Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. This expression is not only found in a song but in the hearts of everyone, here, in the “City of the Christmas Symbols of the Philippines.” The Tangubanons have always looked forward to their Christmas Symbols Festival that starts on the first Day of December, every year and ends on the second Sunday of January, the following year. According to data published by the Tangub City Historical Commission (TCHC), the first ever Christmas tree in the city plaza was lighted in 1992. Since then, Tangub City annually showcased Christmas Symbols in the City Plaza, Christmas Arches and giant Christmas ‘parols’ (lanterns) in the urban barangays. In the late 1990’s Tangub City became the “Christmas Symbols Capital of the Philippines” that draws thousands of tourists during the yuletide season. “This is the time when the ‘Bayanihan’ spirit and the public-private- partnership (PPP) of all sectors is really at work,” Mayor Philip T. Tan, said. Contests are also part of the Christmas celebration in Tangub. The following are the categories for the contest: Category A: Christmas Symbols at the Public Plaza. Participated in by all local and national government offices/agencies, the structures are put up by the employees themselves who contribute to their physical and material needs. Category B: Most Lighted Arches. Welcome arches usually located at the entrance to enhance the façade of the barangays. Category C: Lantern Contest for those barangays without entries in Category B. Lighting of the lanterns starts at 5:30 p.m. up to 12:00 midnight. Category D1: Most Lighted Market Section and Category D2: Most Lighted Private Business Establishments. Included in the contest are the dried fish section, meat and fish section, “Tuba” (coconut wine) and Video-K Section, dry goods and fruit section, “Painitan” (Snacks/food) section and Tobacco section and all the other private business establishments in the city. Category E: Most Lighted Barangays with installation of lights artistically designed and placed neatly to enhance the sidewalks of the highway. Category F: Most Lighted House in the Barangay. This is open to all households in the highway and interior barangays which have entries in Category B, with each barangay having a minimum of seven (7) entries. Judit B. Tablan, City Information Officer and General Secretary of TCHC, said all the contests will be judged according to their artistic combination and the use of lights, 40 percent, their uniqueness, 40 percent and their over-all impact, 20 percent or a total of 100 percent. Meanwhile, the City Tourism Office (CTO) hopes the festival, this year, will again draw thousands of tourists. Data at the CTO shows that 239,209 persons who visited the city, last year, were walk-in guests during the Christmas Symbols Festival. This number represented almost 50 percent of 502,116, the total number of persons who visited the city and availed of their public and private facilities for the year, Vicenta B. Paller, Senior Tourism Operations Officer (STOO), said. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

RDC-X endorses P178.25M budget for DILG and DOLE in NorMin

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 3 (PIA) -- A combined budget of P178.25 million for fiscal year 2012 by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Northern Mindanao have been endorsed by the Regional Development Council - Region 10 (RDC-X). Of this amount, P109.91 million has been proposed by DILG, of which P95.22 million was allocated for personnel services (PS) and P14.70 million for maintenance, operations and other expenses (MOOE), while P68.35 million was proposed by DOLE, of which P33.73 million was allocated for PS and P34.62 million for MOOE. The endorsement is contained in Executive Committee Resolution No. 1, s. 2011 of RDC-X, which was presented to the members, during its 89th full council meeting, here. Engr. Leon M. Dacanay, Jr., Regional Director of the National Economic and Development Authority - Region 10, said RDC-X found the plans and projects of both agencies supportive to the Macro and Development Administration Sectors’ strategic framework on strengthening local government unit capacities to improve local governance on promoting gainful employment opportunities as contained in the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan for calendar years 2011-2016. Dacanay, who is also the RDC-X vice chairperson, said a technical review of both agencies’ proposed programs/projects was conducted based on the 2012 priorities of President Aquino’s Social Contract with the Filipino People and its 16 areas of transformational leadership. These, as reflected in the national/regional development goals and targets and strategies of the MTDP and Medium Term Regional Development Plan for CY 2011-2016, he said. The 2012 budget will prioritize sectors/purposes/expenditures within the context of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework, the Organizational Performance Indicator Framework and the Zero-Based Budgeting approach, Dacanay added. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

Tangub celebrates Christmas Symbols Fest

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- The city dubbed “Christmas Symbols Capital of the Philippines” will be lighted from dusk until dawn, from Dec. 1, 2011 to Jan. 8, 2012. “I have been to all the openings of the festival which is now on its 19th year, but so far, last night was the best,” Judith Tablan, City Information Officer, said. She said the festival, on its first day alone, reached more than 50,000. "The City Tourism Office devised a way to take note of the number of viewers by designating a perimeter area where they could get inside to gain a vantage point and another where they could exit and not be double-counted,” she said. This figure, however, did not include the government employees and students who wore their identification cards (ID) and the children, who the parents brought along, to witness the fireworks display. Records at the CTO show that some 239,209 persons came to visit the city from Dec. 1, 2010 to Jan. 9, 2011, of whom 12,752 were children and 251 were foreigners and Balikbayans. Meanwhile, Tablan said the festival’s merry-making involves the competition in the following: Category A, for the Christmas Symbols put up by the different government and private groups at the City Plaza and Category B- for the Best Arches put by the barangays along the highways and interior barangays. Category C for the Best “Parol” (Lantern) at the St. Michael’s Parish Plaza and Category D 1 for the Market Section including the dried fish, vegetable, meat, fish, “tuba” (coconut wine), dry goods, fruit, “Painitan” and Tobacco Sections. Category D2 for the Private Business Establishments, Category E for the Most Lighted Barangay, and Category F for the Most Lighted House in the Barangay. Winners will be judged for their artistry or artistic combination and use of lights, 40 percent; uniqueness, 40 percent; and over-all impact, 20 percent. On the other hand, Vicenta B. Paller, Senior Tourism Operation Officer (STOO), said the festival will be interspersed with a cultural competition on the Philippine Folk Dances among the elementary, high school and college, as well, as kindergarten students of the private schools on Dec. 2, at the Function Hall No. 1, Activity Center, and Sinanduloy Cultural Center (SCC), all in the city, respectively. A “Tigi sa Katarungan” (Contest on Debate), particularly, “Lantuging Ludabinhon (Lubas sa Dagang Binisaya” (Debate in Cebuano) among college students is also set on Dec. 3, at the SCC, during the Couples for Christ (CFC) Provincial Anniversary. On Dec. 4, a “Balak” (Poem) competition among high school students and the community have been set at Radyo ng Bayan- DXJT, while the Regional Development Council Day have been set on Dec. 8 at Function Hall No. 1. The first Tangub City Invitational Football Tournament has also been set on Dec. 18 at the Tangub City Sports Complex, while the “Pamaskong Handog,” characterized by Christmas Carols and Pop Songs, is set on Dec. 21 at the SCC. The festival will culminate on Jan. 8, 2012 with the proclamation of winners in the different categories and another fireworks display, Paller added. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

Our Lady of Triumph Institute of Technology is NorMin’s 82nd HEI

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, December 01 (PIA) – The Our Lady of Triumph Institute of Technology (OLTIT), here, has been added to the list of higher education institutions (HEI’s) in Northern Mindanao, during the School Year 2010-2011.

“This has brought to 82, the total number of HEI’s in the region,” Dr. Zenaida G. Gersana, Ph.D., Regional Director of the Commission on Higher Education, region 10 (CHED-10), said.

Of this number, 16 or 19.51 percent of the HEI’s belonged to the state/local universities and colleges (SUC/LUC) or the public while the other 64 or 80.48 percent were private HEI’s.

The CHED data also show that the highest number of 18 HEI’s or 21.95 percent are located in Bukidnon, followed by those in Cagayan de Oro City, 16 or 19.51 percent and Iligan City, 12 or 14.63 percent.

The other areas of the region had the following number of HEI’s: Misamis Oriental, 10 or 12.19 percent, Misamis Occidental, eight (8) or 9.75 percent, Lanao del Norte and Ozamiz City, five (5) or 6.09 percent, each, and Camiguin and Tangub City with two (2) HEI’s or 2.43 percent, each, respectively. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

MinDA to ComNet: Help in MindaNOW advocacy

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OROQUIETA, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 30 (PIA) – The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) has called on the participants of the Mindanao Communicators’ Network (MindaComNet) to help in the advocacy of the Mindanao Nurturing Our Waters (MindaNOW) Program. The call was sounded during the 2011 MindaComNet Congress, now on its 3rd day, from Nov. 28-30, which is attended by some 200 Public Information Officers (PIO’s) from the government agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCC’s) and other government instrumentalities from all the six (6) regions of Mindanao, namely, Regions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The MindaNOW Program hopes to establish an inter-regional plan and program in the whole island and harmonize approaches and processes to rationalize resources and mechanisms for the development and management of river basins and watersheds in the island. It also hopes to provide an enabling environment to facilitate achieving environment integrity and sustainable economic development and build a Mindanao green development constituency, as explained by Rey Tan, Technical Assistant of MinDA. Tan said MinDANOW takes after President Benigno S. Aquino III’s Social Contract with the Filipino People 2010 that “a country with an organized and widely shared rapid expansion of our economy through a government dedicated to honing and mobilizing our people’s skills and energies, as well, as the responsible harnessing of our natural resources.” Meanwhile, the components of the MinDANOW Program include the Institutional Development and Capacity Building, Plan Integration and Harmonization, River Basin and Water Management (RBWM) and Policy Review, Development Advocacy and Implementation. Covered by the RBWM are the following rivers in Mindanao: Silay River in Zamboanga del Sur, Magpangi-Salug River in Zamboanga del Norte, Cagayan de Oro River in Misamis Oriental, Agusan River in Agusan del Sur, Tago River in Surigao del Sur, Gabuyan River in Davao del Norte, Lake Lanao-Agus River in Lanao del Sur and Malabulen River in Davao del Sur. (PIA-Mis.Occ.)

DPWH implements P82.6 M infra projects in Mis. Occ.

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 29 (PIA) -- Some 12 infrastructure projects worth P82.6 million have been implemented by the 2nd Engineering District of Misamis Occidental, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) as of Oct. 31 this year. Engr. Dario C. Pusod, Acting District Engineer, said four of these projects have already been completed, two are still on-going and six others have not yet been started. Pusod said among the completed projects were those funded by the DPWH Regular Infrastructure Program for Calendar Year 2011 particularly the construction of two sections of the Bonifacio-Don Victoriano Road involving 0.520 km. worth P11.92 million and some 0.600 km. worth P9.30 million. Also under the DPWH Regular Infra for CY 2011 is the construction of the Ozamiz-Pagadian Road involving 2.07 km. worth P37.17 million, which is still on-going and 65 percent completed. Pusod said the construction of the multi-purpose building at the Lorenzo Tan Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Barangay Lorenzo Tan, this city, under the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of the Coop Natcco Partylist worth P1 million is now 80 percent completed. Meanwhile, two projects which were implemented starting CY 2010 under the PDAF of Congressman Loreto Leo Ocampos and contracted by the RN Builders and General Merchandise, have been completed as of the period. These projects included the improvement or expansion of the Carriageway along the Ozamiz-Oroquieta Road, Sinacaban Section, involving 1.416 km. worth P10 million and the Tudela Section involving some 0.370 km., also worth P10 million. Projects with the not yet started (NYS) status include the following: construction of classrooms at the Bonifacio Central School (CS) in Bonifacio town worth P257,000, and Pan-ay Diot Elementary School (ES) in Tudela worth P200,000; Libertad Bajo ES in Sinacaban worth Php250,000; Sinuza ES in Tudela worth P200,000 and Pan-ay ES in Clarin worth P284,000. Also in the NYS stage is the construction of two classrooms at the Ozamiz City School of Arts and Trade (OCSAT) worth P1.023 million, Pusod added. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

Heritage week

by RMindanao Newsbits


TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Philippines (PIA) – A Grand “Bayle” (Ball) to be participated in by some 2,000 senior citizens in this city will usher the celebration of the 7th Heritage and Culture Week here that started November 28 up to December 4.

“This is Tangub’s way of honoring our beloved parents and grandparents for their contribution to our present generation. We want them to relive their younger years with their music and the fun fare that went with it, so they will enjoy,” Mayor Philip Tan said. In the olden times, the so-called “Bayle,” usually held at a public plaza, was a crowd-drawer.

Oroquieta CDRRMC acquires a rubber inflatable boat

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 27 (PIA) -- The City Government here has acquired a rubber inflatable boat and a rescue jeep to be used by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC), during emergencies. Mayor Jason P. Almonte, chairperson of the CDRRMC, said he believes that thru this acquisition, the capability of the city to respond to disaster and other emergencies is strengthened and enhanced. “With this life-saving vehicle, we have planned to conduct a Water Search & Rescue Training (WASAR) next year,” Almonte said. He also said a contingency Planning Workshop has been set by CDRRM in the last week of January 2012. Included in the plan is the conduct of earthquake drills in public and private schools, as well, as in the hospitals of the city. Among others, the city also plans to buy more rescue tools and equipment, such as, the automated external defibrillator, helmets and life jackets and additional First Aid supplies. Meanwhile, the contingency plan includes the conduct of the 2nd Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid/Rescue Training (FART) intended for the rural barangays and the 3rd such training for private offices and national agencies in the month of February. The first batch of the BLS/FAR Training was held during the 3rd quarter, this year, attended by some 30 participants from all the departments of the local government unit (LGU) and the coastal barangays of the city. Almonte said the participants were trained to administer the proper Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) technique and procedure and the other aspects of First Aid application and emergency rescue/response operations. Before the participants were given certificates and Identification (ID) Cards as Trained Health Care Providers, they were subjected to “hands-on” and “real time” accident scenario. The BLS training was conducted by the Health Emergency Management Staff Department of Health, region 10, headed by Dr. David Mendoza of the Regional Epidemiology, Surveillance and Disaster Response Unit. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

Mis. Occ. SY 2010-2011 enrollees is 14.11% of college students in Nor Min

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 26 (PIA) –- Some 17,613 students have been enrolled in the higher education institutions (HEI) of the province during the school year 2010-2011. Of this number, 11,717 students or 66.52 percent were enrolled in the HEI’s of Ozamiz City, while 3,434 students or 19.50 percent were enrolled in the HEI’s of Tangub City and 2,462 students or 13.97 percent were enrolled in the HEI’s of Oroquieta City. Data from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)region 10, also show that all the enrollees in Ozamiz and Oroquieta Cities came from the private HEI’s while all the enrollees from Tangub City, all came from the public HEI’s. Meanwhile, the enrolment in Misamis Occidental represents 14.11 percent of 124,842, the total number of students enrolled in the HEI’s of the entire region, for the school year. Of this number, 49,637 or 39.8 percent was served by the public HEI’s while 75,205 or 60.24 percent, by the private HEI’s, Dr. Zenaida G. Gersana, Ph.D, Regional Director of CHED, region 10, said. Cagayan de Oro City posted the highest number of enrollees with 46,869 students or 37.54 percent, followed by Bukidnon with 25,306 or 20.27 percent. The other areas also posted the following number of HEI enrollees: Iligan City with 19,119 students or 15.31 percent, and Misamis Oriental with 7,789 students or 6.24 percent. Lanao del Norte with 3,589 students or 2.87 percent, Camiguin with 2,918 students or 2.33 percent, and Gingoog City, 1,639 students or 1.31 percent. (PIA-Mis. Occ.)

“Uyap” from Murcielagos Bay, Mis. Occ., still not safe to eat – BFAR

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 25 (PIA) -– All types of shellfish and “alamang”” or minute shrimps, locally known as “uyap” or “uyabang,” gathered from Murcielagos Bay, located between Mis Occ. and Zamboanga del Norte, is still unsafe for human consumption. Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in its Shellfish Bulletin No. 24, issued recently advised the public not to harvest, not to eat, not to sell and not to buy them. Visa Tan-Dimerin, Regional Director of BFAR, region 10, said the warning came out after the latest laboratory results conducted on the shellfish and “alamang” collected from the area have been found positive for paralytic shellfish poison that is beyond the regulatory limit. She said three other areas are also found positive of red tide, therefore, shellfish collected from the following areas are also unsafe to eat: Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur and Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar, Masinloc Bay in Zambales. Dimerin, however, said that fish, squids, shrimps and crabs, are safe to eat, provided they are fresh and washed thoroughly and their internal organs, such as gills and intestines, are removed before cooking. Meanwhile, BFAR said the following coastal waters have continued to be free from toxic red tide, and the shellfish gathered from these areas are safe to eat:Mindanao: Taguines Lagoon in Camiguin, Hinatuan, Lianga and Bislig Bays in Surigao del Sur and Balite Bay in Mati, Davao Oriental. Visayas: Irong-irong, Maqueda and Villareal Bays in Samar, Ormoc, San Pedro, Cancabato and Carigara Bays in Leyte, Biliran Waters in Biliran Province. Pilar, President Roxas, Pontevedra, Panay, Roxas City, Ivisan and Sapian in Capiz and E.B. Magalona, Pontevedra, Pulupandan, Villadolid, Talisay City, Bacolod City, Hinigaran, Cadiz City, Victorias City, Bago City and San Enrique in Negros Occidental.Luzon: Cavite, Las Pinas, Paranaque, Navotas, Bulacan and Bataan in Manila Bay. Alaminos, Anda, Bani and Bolinao in Pangasinan, Milagros and Mandaon Bays in Masbate, Juag Lagoon in Matnog and Sorosogon Bay in Sorsogon.Honda and Puerto Bays in Puerto Princesa City, and Inner Malampaya Sound in Taytay, Palawan. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental

RDC-X endorses Php1.838B proposal of R-10 eco-sector agencies for FY 2012

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 24 (PIA) -- A budget of Php1.838 billion for fiscal year 2012 from the seven economic sector regional offices in Northern Mindanao, had been endorsed by the Regional Development Council, region 10 (RDC-X), during its full council meeting, here, last June. Of this amount, PhpP736.6 million or 40.07 percent was budgeted for personnel services (PS), while Php855.66 million or 46.55 percent was budgeted for maintenance and other expenses (MOOE) and Php245.93 million or 13.37 percent for capital outlay (CO). Mandated to coordinate and set the direction of all economic and social development efforts in the region, RDC-X, through its secretariat, reviewed the agency budgets focusing on the proposed programs/projects based on the 2012 priorities supportive of Pres. Aquino’s Social Contract and its 16 areas of transformational leadership. These priorities are reflected in the national/regional development goals and targets, and strategies in the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP) and Medium Term Regional Development Plan (MTRDP) for FYs 2011-2016. The agency programs/projects were reviewed within the context of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), the Organizational Performance Indicator Framework (OIPF) and the Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) approach. Meanwhile, of these agencies, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) had the highest proposed budget of Php447.54 million. The amount, however, does not include the Pph2.4 million-worth of the Government of the Philippines (GOP) counterpart for the Camiguin Coastal Resource Management Project. The proposed budget of the other agencies were as follows: Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Php591.88 million and Department of Agriculture (DA), Php534.217 million. Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Php114.914 million, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Php68.46 million and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Php67.776 million. Department of Tourism (DOT), Php14.12 million, excluding, programs and projects endorsed for the Tourism Industry Economic Zone Authority (TIEZA) and other funding sources in the amount of Php68.2 million. Two of these agencies, DAR and DOT, however, did not have proposals for capital outlay, Engr. Leon M. Dacanay, Jr., Regional Director of the National Economic and Development Authority, region 10 (NEDA-X) said. Meanwhile, Dacanay said these proposed budgets were given due consideration for inclusion in their respective central office’s 2012 budgets. The accompanying RDC-X endorsement letters have been provided to the Department Secretaries and Undersecretaries for Finance and Administration of the concerned agencies for their action, Dacanay, who is also the Vice-Chairperson of RDC-X, said. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

P131.66-M road projects in Mindanao to be bidded out

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 23 (PIA) -- Some P131.66 million worth of provincial road projects will be bidded out by the Provincial Roads Management Facility (PRMF) in the provinces of Misamis Occidental and Bukidnon, Region 10, as well, as in Agusan del Sur, Region 13. This will cover 84.48 kilometers of roads. To be funded by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and the concerned Provincial Governments, the projects will involve earthworks, preparation of sub-base and surface/base courses, drainage and erosion works, and construction of concrete and miscellaneous structures. PRMF or Provincial Roads Management Facility is a $100 million program run over five years. It is an initiative of the AusAID in partnership with the Government of the Philippines through the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). The Facility commenced operations on 14 September 2009. The road project also involves repair of the unpaved road surface of the carriageway and roadside shoulders, cleaning of drainage, vegetation control, and traffic maintenance following an area approach to road maintenance. Cipriano A. Ravenas, Jr., Chairperson of the PRMF Bidding and Awards Committee (BAC), said the Coffey International Development Pty Ltd, a consulting firm, has been engaged as Facility Managing Contractor (FMC) for the Philippines PRMF and is tasked to invite bidders for the projects. Three (3) of the rehabilitation projects, which are targeted for completion from five (5) to nine (9) months, are located in Misamis Occidental, namely: Maular-Monterico Road, involving 2.26 km., with a budget of Php31,859,091.63, Bunawan-Dapacan Bajo Road, involving 2.65 km., with a budget of Php10,172,772.54, and Sapang-Dalaga Medallo Road, involving 4.06 km., with a budget of Php12,915,565.58. Two (2) of the rehabilitation projects, both to be completed in six (6) months in Agusan del Sur include: San Jose-Aurora-Lucena Road, Aurora-Lucena Section, involving 4.66 km. with a budget of Php31,950,538.60 and the Pisaan-Del Monte Road, Tagapua Section, involving 2.46 km., with a budget of Php37,504,222.96. Bidding for the projects in Mis. Occ. have been scheduled on Nov. 23, those in Bukidnon on Nov. 24 and those in Agusan del Sur in December 6-7, this year. Ravanes said the bidding will be conducted in accordance with relevant procedures for open competitive bidding as specified in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 9184 (RA 9184), with some exceptions/amendments as stated in the Bidding Documents. (PIA-10 Misamis Occidental)

Christmas treat

by tawitawi.net


OROQUIETA CITY (PIA) – Persons With Disability (PWDs), and polio victims in a range of Misamis Occidental perceived their early Christmas gifts from a provincial supervision here. Governor Herminia Ramiro, in team-work with a Children International Philippines Incorporated (CIPI), donated 80 wheelchairs essentially for them.

“These wheelchairs would palliate a lives of a beneficiaries, make them productive, and be means to minister to a growth of a province,” Ramiro said. She also speedy a beneficiaries to take good caring of a wheelchairs, and send a appreciate we minute to a donor as a gesticulate of gratitude.

Religious group supports province’s smoke-free campaign

by Published in the Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro newspaper


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental – The Seventh Day Adventists (SDA) vowed to support the advocacy of Misamis Occidental’s anti-smoking campaign.

This, after the Provincial Government here intensified its advocacy against smoking as it launched the Smoke-Free Misamis Occidental Campaign in response to a recently approved anti-smoking ordinance by the Provincial Board.

Pastor Rolie Ursunal of SDA said the campaign is an instrument that the people will be free from the ill effects of smoking, especially for the well-being of the youth.

Pastor Segundino Asoy, president of SDA Against Drug-Abuse, urged Misamisnons, particularly the parents, to stop smoking as this would affect the health of their children.

Early this year, lawyer Josefina Buenaseda, legal consultant of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Alliance Philippines (FCAP), called on the Tobacco Control Group in Northern Mindanao for the strict banning of all tobacco advertisements in televisions, newspapers, billboards and Internet.

The FCAP has challenged mayors to pass ordinances adopting Republic Act 9211, an act regulating the packaging, use, sale distribution and advertisement of tobacco products.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Rachel T. Micarandayo said cigarette smoke poses a grave danger to the people’s health, as the number of deaths and diseases related to tobacco smoke have been increasing.

SDA supports Mis. Occ. smoke-free campaign

by Elaine O. Ratunil


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 15 (PIA) -- The Seventh Day Adventists (SDA) vowed to support the advocacy of Misamis Occidental’s anti-smoking campaign. This was in response to a recently approved anti-smoking ordinance by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP). Pastor Rolie Ursunal of SDA said the campaign will benefit the people, especially the youth. Pastor Segundino Asoy, President, SDA Against Drug-Abuse, urged the Misamisnons to stop smoking. Early this year, Atty. Josefina Buenaseda, legal consultant of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Alliance Philippines (FCAP), called on the Tobacco Control Group in Northern Mindanao for the strict banning of all tobacco advertisements in televisions, newspapers, billboards and internet. The FCAP has challenged the local chief executives (LCE’s) to pass ordinances adopting Republic Act 9211, an act regulating the packaging, use, sale distribution and advertisement of tobacco products. Provincial Health Officer Dr. Rachel T. Micarandayo said cigarette smoking poses a grave danger to the health of all Misamisnons, as the number of deaths and diseases related to tobacco smoke have been increasing. (PIA-10)

Christmas treat

by mb.com.ph


BULDON, Maguindanao (PNA) – some 2,500 residents from this former war-ravaged town benefited from a first-ever joint dental and medical outreach mission conducted recently by the Integrated Provincial Health Office, the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion, and the Philippine National Police in the area.

This 5th class municipality with a population of over 36,000 once formed part of Camp Abubakar, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF’s) main base captured by government forces during the height of the military-MILF conflict in 2000 under the administration of former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada.

“Slowly, we are rising from the ashes of war that we have experienced here,” Mayor Fatima Ruth Tomawis said.

PWDs receive 80 wheelchairs as early Christmas gifts

by Elaine O. Ratunil


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 12 (PIA) -- Persons with disability (PWDs) and polio victims in the province received their early Christmas gifts from the provincial government here. Governor Herminia Ramiro, in cooperation with the Children International Philippines Incorporated (CIPI), donated 80 wheelchairs primarily for them. “These wheelchairs would ease the lives of the beneficiaries, make them productive and be able to contribute to the development of the province,” Ramiro said. She also encouraged the beneficiaries to take good care of the wheelchairs and send a thank you letter to the donor as a gesture of gratitude. Ramiro expressed her deepest gratitude for the generosity of CIPI, a humanitarian organization dedicated to easing the burdens of poverty of poor children around the world through sponsorship and donation, mainly, in the areas of education and health. Meanwhile, the wheelchairs were distributed to the beneficiaries from the cities of Tangub, Ozamiz and Oroquieta and the towns of Clarin, Sinacaban, Lopez Jaena, Plaridel, and Sapang Dalaga. Other recipients were the Provincial Farmers Cultural Training Center (PFCTC), the Misamis Occidental Aquarine Park (MOAP) and the Misamis Occ. Provincial Medical Rehabilitation Center; for the use of the PWDs and polio victim visitors. (PIA-10)

KALAHI-CIDSS COVERS TWO NEW AREAS IN MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL

  • So

urce:http://www.fo10.dswd.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=352:kalahi-cidss-covers-two-new-areas-in-misamis-occidental&catid=65:articles

  • Wednesday, 26 October 2011 16:00
by Noemi Marla C. Cinco Social Marketing Officer, KALAHI-CIDSS, DSWD-X


The KALAHI-CIDSS project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is now scaling up its implementation to further empower and develop more communities in Region 10.With this, two additional towns in Misamis Occidental are now covered by the expansion of the project.

Last October 13-14, 2011, the Regional Project Management Office of the KALAHI-CIDSS project, headed by Assistant Regional Director and Regional Project Manager Aldersey Mumar Dela Cruz, visited the towns of Pana-on and Calamba to conduct a focus group discussion with the local government units. This is part of their start-up activities in preparation for their project implementation in January 2012.

The municipalities are going to receive Php450,000.00 per barangay as grant from the project. The municipality of Pana-on is composed of 16 barangays allowing them to avail Php7.2Million.

On the other hand, the municipality of Calamba will also be receiving Php 8.550Million covering 19 barangays. In total, the KALAHI-CIDSS Project will be funding more than Php15.7Million in Region 10 for CY2012. "We are very thankful and blessed that the Municipality of Calamba was able receive the project especially at this time that our municipality needs foreign assisted projects for us to be able to develop our municipality, which our constituents will also benefit.” says Mayor Luisito Villanueva of Calamba.


Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) is a community driven development (CDD) project that aims to empower communities by enhancing participation, promoting transparency and accountability.

Vice Mayor Rosanne Paylaga Lim of Pana-on shared her appreciation to the CDD approach of KALAHI-CIDSS “ The people in the barangay is the most knowledgeable as to what they really need, it is just right to give them the voice and power to implement a project which will help them.”

KALAHI-CIDSS also aims to enhance local governance and reduce poverty by providing seed funds for infrastructure projects funded by World Bank (WB).

Currently, the KALAHI-CIDSS project is being implemented in the towns of Sinacaban, Lopez Jaena, Concepcion and Don Victoriano in Misamis Occidental.

Tangub receives seal of good housekeeping

by PIA Press Release


TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, October 23 (PIA) -- Tangub City was stamped with “Seal of Good Housekeeping” bestowed by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) recently. This award is given to all local government units (LGUs) that passed the following criteria: full disclosure of financial transactions; no adverse findings of the Commission on Audit; and a satisfactory rating in its Local Government Performance Monitoring System (LGPMS). City Mayor Philip Tan revealed that LGUs with this stamp have access to the Performance Challenge Fund of P3 nillion for cities which could be added to the existing projects or programs of the local government. PCF, Tan said, is a subsidy to assist the LGU to jumpstart local development initiatives aligned with the thrusts and priorities of the national government. Meanwhile, LGUs exhibiting good performance in internal housekeeping particularly in the areas of planning, fiscal management, transparency and accountability and valuing performance management are given this stamp. (PIO/PIA-10)

26 Balik-Pinay Balik Hanapbuhay graduates receive financial aid

by Nestor E. Flores, Jr.


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Oct. 17 (PIA) –- Some 26 former Household Service Workers (HSWs) from this province, received an additional amount of P5,000 each as financial assistance granted by the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO). Regional Director Petrona M. Bergado of the Overseas Filipino Workers Administration (OWWA), region 10, said the financial assistance was given to them after they graduated from the Balik-Pinay Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH) Livelihood Skills Training Seminar for Native Snack Preparation. She said the checks were distributed to the beneficiaries at the Provincial Capitol Function Hall in Oroquieta City, last Sept. 19. The BPBH Program is one of the income augmentation strategies of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) by providing livelihood opportunities through skills training and starter-kits. The livelihood projects under this program shall be funded by the NRCO through its direct administration or through accredited OFW cooperatives, family circles and other associations under the supervision of OWWA Regional Offices in Partnership with the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Regional Offices and other training institutions. Present in the said event were Misamis Occidental Provincial Governor Herminia M. Ramiro, Regional Director Allan M. Macaraya of DOLE, region 10, DOLE-Mis. Occ. Provincial Head Leonard G. Rodrigo, and OWWA-10 Regional Director Petrona M. Bergado. Meanwhile, 10 former HSWs in Misamis Oriental received starter kits worth Php13,596, each from NRCO. Bergado said four of them have undergone the Candle and Soap Making Training in Medina, Mis. Or., last June 1-2, and the other six (6) from Hair Cutting & Beauty Care Seminar in Gingoog City last June 22-23. The said event was held during the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony of the Province of Misamis Oriental at the Capitol Grounds attended by some members of the Sanguniang Panlalawigan led by Vice-Governor Norris C. Babiera, Municipal Mayors of Mis. Or., Provincial Governor Oscar S. Moreno. (OWWA/PIA-10)

P13-M for Misamis irrigation projects

by Mb.com.ph


MANILA, Philippines -- The Department of Agriculture is allotting P13 million to rehabilitate two communal irrigation systems (CIS) in Ozamis City, Misamis Occidental to enable the province to attain 100 percent self-sufficiency in rice in the next two years from the current 84% level.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said the two irrigation projects are the Labo and the Clarin CIS that serve a combined area of 160 hectares.

When completed, the Labo CIS will irrigate a total of 118 hectares, while Clarin will irrigate 42 hectares.

Initially, the two systems were allotted with P6.5 million, but Secretary Alcala doubled it to P13 million, upon knowing that the province currently produces 84% of its total rice requirements. He challenged the local officials and farmers to attain 100 percent self-sufficiency in rice the soonest possible time, even before 2013, by doubling their irrigation budget.

In particular, he urged farmers to increase their average palay harvest to at least five tons per hectare by employing good agricultural practices – from land preparation to use of good quality certified seeds, proper fertilization, and adoption of postharvest practices.

The country’s current average harvest of palay (unmilled rice) is 3.7 tons (74 cavans of 50 kilos each) per hectare.

The National Irrigation Administration in Region X, through the Lanao-Misamis Occidental Irrigation Management Office under Regional Irrigation Manager Julius S. Maguiling, has achieved 52.71 percent irrigation development in the region.

The region has a total agricultural area 193,830 hectares. Of these, 14,574 hectares have potential for irrigation. About one-half of these areas are already irrigated by the NIA, commercial or private irrigators, and small land owners. The rest is for irrigation development.

Misamis Occ solon supports DSWD’s request for higher budget

by Charmaine P. Tadlas


OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Sept. 6 (PIA) -- Congressman Loreto Leo S. Ocampos of the 2nd District, this province, is supporting the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) proposal for a Php39 billion budget for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program in 2012. The Congressman said that he supports Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman and sees the need to cover more households for the Program. “I go for the approval of the higher budget of Pantawid Pamilya for 2012, since many poor families can actually benefit from it,” he said. The Pantawid Pamilya is the conditional cash transfer (CCT) scheme of the national government which provides a maximum of Php1,400 to poor households for their children’s educational and health needs. In exchange for the subsidy, each household shall comply with their co-responsibilities, such as, ensuring that their children are sent to school and have regular checkups and that household heads and their spouses shall also attend to Family Development Sessions of the Program. Cong. Ocampos saw that the DSWD’ Program has improved the quality of life of many families, thus, his support for Pantawid Pamilya. He emphasized however that the implementation of the Program needs fine-tuning in terms of its list of recipients, the speedy delivery of the cash assistance, and to strengthen the monitoring of the beneficiaries’ compliance of their co-responsibilities in the Program. He also mentioned that the DSWD should also strengthen its coordination with the congressional offices believing that the latter can share their part in reinforcing Pantawid Pamilya’s objectives in helping the poor. Meanwhile, beneficiaries of the Program are also voicing out their support to Secretary Soliman for an increase in budget to P39 Billion for 2012. The Department of Social Welfare and Development is currently providing cash subsidy to 200,569 households in Region 10 alone.(PIA 10)

DSWD-DILG in tandem for KALAHI-CIDSS “Makamasang Tugon” in region 10

by Noemi Marla C. Cinco


DON VICTORIANO, Misamis Occidental, Aug. 30 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has launched its flagship anti-poverty project, “Makamasang Tugon” Project, here, an interior town of the province, last August 9. The Makamasang Tugon Project of Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) is an initiative that aims to harmonize the community demand-driven (CDD) technology to the local planning processes (LPP) of the local government unit (LGU). Lawyer Araceli F. Solamillo, Regional Director of DSWD, region 10, said this initiative is only implemented to those municipalities that have successfully implemented three (3) KALAHI-CIDSS cycles such as Don Victoriano. The KALAHI-CIDSS or is a community driven development (CDD) project that reduce poverty by providing seed funds for infrastructure projects supported by World Bank (WB). Meanwhile, the program was highlighted by the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among the LGU of Don Victoriano, Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and DSWD which signaled the beginning of the implementation of the KALAHI-CIDSS-Makamasang Tugon Project. One of the partners of DSWD in implementing KALAHI-CIDSS, DILG envisions the improvement of local governance in the area. Meanwhile, Regional Director Loreto Bhagwani of DILG, region 10, said DSWD has done a great job in its quest to deliver social services to the poorest of the poor and its commitment to help in the reduction of poverty in the country. “It does not only help in uplifting the lives of the poor but it also teaches them to stand on their own,” he said. Bhagwani signed the MOA, along with Solamillo, Gov. Herminia Ramiro and Mayor Rodolfo Luna of Don Victoriano. In a related development, Aldersey Mumar Dela Cruz, Assistant Regional Director of DSWD-10 and KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Project Manager also expressed her thanks to the different sectors, present during the occasion, specially, the Subanen Tribe represented by Sergio Barimbao, Barangay Chairperson of Mansawan who offered a ceremonious gathering to express their gratitude for the KALAHI-CIDSS Project. (DSWD/PIA-10)

Tangub prepares for city fiesta

TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, August 29 (PIA) -- Tangub is once more getting ready for the celebration of its city fiesta on September 29. Major activities lined up for the event actually started with the deadline for registration of candidates for the Search for Miss Tangub City Tourism 2011, last Aug. 13. An acquaintance/fellowship of national agencies in celebration of the 111th Philippine Civil Service anniversary, have been scheduled on Sept. 8, that will be capped in the evening by a variety show at Sinanduloy Cultural Center. In the afternoon of September 9, candidates for Miss Tangub City Tourism will be formally presented to the public after the Alay Lakad at Tangub City Sports Complex. For the first time, the Alay Lakad will be done at 3:30 p.m., on the same day, instead of at dawn, as usually practiced, to get maximum participation of employees, students and citizens of the city. A city athletic meet, participated in by elementary and secondary schools of the Tangub City Schools Division is scheduled on Sept 16-18, while the time-honored ritual of changing the robe of St. Michael, the Archangel , at St. Michael’s Parish Church falls on Sept 20. On the following day, Sept 21, the Talent Competition Night of the candidates for Miss Tangub City Tourism will taker place while the Search for Miss Tangub City Tourism on have been scheduled on Sept. 24. The city-owned radio station, DXJT Radyo ng Bayan, will turn four (4) years old on Sept 26 while a Cultural Night, a competition of folk dances, among the city employees of both local and national agencies, is set on Sept 28. The Search for Dalit Festival Queen, Dalit Festival Street dancing and showdown that follow the next day, Sept. 29, will conclude the city fiesta celebration. (CIO/PIA-10)

Kalahi-CIDSS project coverage expands in Mis. Occ.

The Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) has expanded its coverage to two (2) more local government units (LGUs) in Misamis Occidental.

The municipality of Pana-on and Calamba were identified as additional recipients of the pro-poor project of the government, disclosed Concepcion Dorado, KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Project Coordinator, during the ‘Talakayan sa PIA’ held, yesterday, at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), here.

A poverty-reduction program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), KALAHI-CIDSS projects empower poor local communities to achieve improved access to basic services, as well as, to participate in more inclusive local governance.

It helps poor communities develop the necessary skills and provides them with seed funds and resources to select, implement, and sustain small-scale community infrastructure social projects using a community-driven development (CDD) approach, she said.

Dorado emphasized that the focus of the project is on people empowerment because people have the capacity to make change happen.

She said all decisions on the projects involve the participation of the community citing that in choosing the projects, decision will come from the entire community and not from a certain individual.

In region 10, some 69 KALAHI-CIDSS projects with a total grant of P66.59 million were implemented in the municipality of Kapatagan, Lala and Bacolod in Lanao del Norte, as well as, in Concepcion, Lopez Jaena, and Sinacaban towns in Misamis Occidental.

These projects include the construction of day care centers, school buildings, health stations, road improvements, water systems, and solar dryers, among others.

Meanwhile, Dorado said that DSWD received additional funding for more pro-poor infrastructure projects.

KALAHI-CIDSS project will soon expand to cover urban areas to help the urban communities lagging in terms of access to basic social services, she concluded.

OWWA-10 gives notice of awards to Mis.Occ. OFWDSP scholars

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental- At least 10 dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) from this province who have qualified for the Dependents Scholarship Program (DSP) received their notices of award last August 19.

This brings to 32, , Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Regional Director Petrona M. Bergado said there are already 32 OFW-DSP beneficiaries. Early this month, OWWA-10 also gave the notice of awards to 22 OFW-DSP beneficiaries from Misamis Oriental.

Bergado said the OFW-DSP came into effect with OWWA Memorandum of Instructions No.003 which offers financial assistance to qualified dependents of OFW’s who are active members of OWWA and receive a monthly salary of not more than US$400 or below.

“This will be determined through the verified employment contract, overseas employment certificate or OWWA OFW member verification sheet,” Bergado said.

The scholars will enroll in any 4-year or 5-year baccalaureate degree or associate degree leading to a baccalaureate degree and become agents in community development.

They shall receive financial assistance of P10,000 per semester to cover the tuition fee and other academic-related expenses and a group health and accident insurance worth P100,000 per scholar.

Meanwhile, Bergado said an active OWWA member is defined as an OWWA-registered member who has a valid membership at the time of availment or whose membership has expired for not more than six months. Considered OFW legal dependents are children, natural or adopted, of married OFW’s/Single OFW’s, brother or sister, half-bloodied or single/childless married OFW’s.

Qualifications of a legal dependent include the following: Single, not more than 21 years old at the time of the application, high school graduate or about to graduate from high school or already enrolled in college, this semester, and physically and mentally and morally fit.

Present during the awarding of notices were Provincial Administrator Henry Ken Regalado, Provincial Head of the Department of Labor and Employment Leonardo Rodrigo, and Provincial Director, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Leo Velez.

Also present were Commission on Audit Provincial Auditor Gorardo Peralta, Department of Trade and Industry Trade Promotion Officer Concordia Dete Acosta, and Oroquieta Agro-Industrial School Administrator Bonifacia Gado.

Displaced HSW’s from Mis. Occ. avail 'Balik-Pinay, Balik-Hanapbuhay' program

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental- Twenty seven (27) displaced Household Service Workers (HSWs) from this province underwent training on Native Snacks Preparation on August 17 and 18.

Held under the National Reintegration Center for Overseas Filipino Workers (NRCO) Balik-Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay Program, the activity was held at the Oroquieta Agro-Industrial School (OAIS), a training institution supervised by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) The “Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay” Program is one of the income augmentation strategies of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) by providing livelihood opportunities through skills training and starter-kits, Regional Director Petronila M. Bergado of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), region 10, said.

The livelihood projects under this program are funded by NRCO through direct administration or through accredited OFW cooperatives, family circles and other associations under the supervision of OWWA Regional Offices, in partnership with TESDA Regional Offices and other training institutions.

Bergado said eligible beneficiaries of the program are women OFW’s displaced by hostilities and conflicts in the Arab Countries and other distressed and displaced women HSW’s.

Meanwhile, in her desire to finish the course, Lota Anduman, a former worker in Dubai, brought along her 6-month old baby to the training.

“This is a rare opportunity to avail of a free training like this. I might be able help my husband earn a living through this, so I brought my baby with me just to join the training,” she said.

During the closing ceremony, Angelita Gomez, another returning OFW, said she did not realize that what she had been searching for abroad, which is sustainable livelihood, is here in the Philippines.

“We all know how we sacrificed and suffered abroad, only to find out that the answer is here. Our only request now is for each of us to be given a moving cart in addition to the starter kit so we could sell our products,” Gomez added.

DSWD AND DILG IN TANDEM FOR KALAHI-CIDSS MAKAMASANG TUGON IN REGION 10

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has launched its flagship anti-poverty project KALAHI-CIDSS Makamasang Tugon Project at Don Victoriano Misamis Occidental last August 9, 2011.

The highlight of the program is the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Local Government Unit of Don Victoriano, the Provincial Local Government, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the DSWD; the ceremony signaled the beginning of the implementation of the KALAHI-CIDSS Makamasang Tugon Project.

Regional Director Loreto Bhagwani of the DILG is one of the signatories of the MOA along with Atty. Araceli Solamillo Regional Director of the DSWD, Gov. Germinia Ramiro and Mayor Rodolfo Luna. He said that the DSWD has done a great job in its quest to deliver social services to the poorest of the poor and its commitment to help in the reduction of poverty in the Nation.

“DSWD does not only helped in uplifting the lives of the poor but it also teach the poor to stand on its own.”, says Dir. Bhagwani. The DILG is one of the partners of the Department in implementing KALAHI-CIDSS and together envisioned the improvement of local governance.


The Assistant Regional Director and the KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Project Manager Aldersey Mumar Dela Cruz also expressed her thanks to the different sectors specially the Subanen Tribe represented by Sergio Barimbao the Barangay Chairman of Mansawan who offered a ceremonious gathering to express their gratitude for the KALAHI-CIDSS Project.

KALAHI-CIDSS or Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services is a community driven development (CDD) project that reduce poverty by providing seed funds supported by World Bank for infrastructure projects.

The Makamasang Tugon project of KALAHI-CIDSS is an initiative that aims to harmonize the CDD technology to the local planning processes (LPP) of the LGU. This initiative is only implemented to those municipalities that have successfully implemented three KALAHI-CIDSS cycles such as Don Victoriano.

Congress: Economic laws' amendments timely

MANILA, Philippines- Congress leaders Sunday expressed belief that it is about time to amend the economic provisions of the Constitution to encourage the influx of foreign investments.

Earlier, it was reported that Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. and Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile agreed that Congress should convene as a Constituent Assembly (ConAss) meet and vote separately, to effect the economic amendments.

The House committee on constitutional amendments, headed by Misamis Occidental Rep. Loreto Leo Ocampos, is set to tackle on Tuesday House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) No. 10 calling on Congress to constitute into a ConAss to propose amendments to certain economic provisions of the Constitution.

The proposal to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution is gaining support from the public, according to an ongoing online survey launched by the House of Representatives.

The House - initiated poll also showed that 153 or 68.61 percent of the respondents threw support behind the urgency to push through with Charter Change (Chacha) through a Constituent Assembly (ConAss).

However, 66 respondents or 29.60 percent thumbed down the timing of the economic amendments.

At least four respondents or 1.79 percent, meanwhile, were dilly-dallying whether they would support or not the controversial proposal pending before Congress.

Despite Malacañang’s cold stance on Cha-cha, the Lower Chamber is deciding to deliberate on the economic amendments to the Constitution, Belmonte said.

Belmonte said the Palace will not stop Cha-cha hearings despite its non-inclusion in the list of priority measures approved during the recent meeting of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council.

North Mindanao exports reach $277-M in first quarter

FOR the first three months of the year, Northern Mindanao was able to export US$277 million worth of products, indicating a 39.07 percent increase, up against figures recorded during the same period in 2010.

Data from the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Northern Mindanao Region revealed that majority of the total number of exported products came from the provinces of Misamis Oriental and Lanao del Norte, sharing 55.9 percent and 38.8 percent, respectively.

The rest of the exports came from Bukidnon, Misamis Occidental and Camiguin, which contributed a total of 5.01 percent.

The Neda data showed that Lanao del Norte posted the highest growth at 74.3 percent owing to the increase in the global demand for coconut-based products, which is the province's main exports.

In contrast, Misamis Occidental posted a significant decrease of 88.73 percent when its top exporter of crude coconut oil, Third Millennium Oil Corporation, opted to sell its produce to the domestic market which has higher prevailing price for crude coconut oil.

Records also showed that crude coconut/cochin oil, oleochemicals, copra solvent and expeller cake/meal were the top dollar earners for the period with crude coconut/cochin oil accounting for 39 percent and Oleochemicals with 32 percent.

Other top exports during the period were canned pineapple products, sintered ore, rubber (natural/processed/cuplumps), abaca pulp/fiber, desiccated coconut and sawn lumber/core-finished/kiln dried.

In terms of growth rate, copra solvent and expeller cake/meal registered the highest growth at 173.6 percent while abaca pulp posted the most significant decline of 20.13 percent, which is indicative of seasonal demand in the global market.

Coconut-based products remained as the region's top dollar earner accounting for 79.65 percent of the top 10 export commodities of the region and valued at US$203.69 million. The remaining 21.29 percent was contributed by processed foods at 6.5 percent, industrial manufacturing at 5.2 percent, other resource-based products at 2.3 percent and 14 percent for the other export commodities.

However, the Neda data showed there were substantial decreases of exports of mineral products, aquamarine, sugar cane products, iron and steel, special transactions and gifts, toys and housewares during the period, which could also be attributed to the seasonal demand in the global market.

PDEA nabs 2 in Marawi shabu tiangge raid

TWO persons were arrested as combined elements of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and Army neutralized a shabu tiangge the other day in Marawi City.

PDEA Director General Jose S. Gutierrez Jr. said elements of the PDEA Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, together with the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade, arrested Zainoding M. Manso, 25 and Myrna B. Lindab, 37, both of Sabalamanao, Marawi City, in simultaneous buy bust operations in Lower Danalan, Bgy. Lumber, Marawi City, and dismantled shabu tiangge.

It was learned that Manso was allegedly maintaining the drug den in the compound and was arrested after selling three plastic sachets of shabu to a poseur buyer. He yielded four medium-sized and 20 small plastic sachets containing seven grams of shabu.

Lindab was caught after selling three sachets of shabu to PDEA agent. Recovered from her were 58 small plastic sachets of shabu.

Charges of violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, have been filed against the suspects who were detained at PDEA ARMM detention facility.

Gutierrez said that this is the sixth shabu tiangge dismantled by PDEA and other law enforcement agencies nationwide and the third in Mindanao from January to present.

SUBANEN TRIBE WELCOMES MAKAMASANG TUGON IN MIS. OCC. TOWN

Communities in Don Victoriano, Misamis Occidental which is being resided by a majority of the Subanen Tribe welcomed the Makamasang Tugon during the launching of the Project last August 9, 2011.

Makamasang Tugon, an initiative that integrates the KALAHI-CIDSS Community-Driven Development processes and principles to the Local Planning Process (LPP) of the Local Government Unit by way of an LGU-led implementation. However, the Project is exclusively given to municipalities who have successfully implemented three cycles of KALAHI-CIDSS as their incentive—as in this case, the municipality of Don Victoriano is a beneficiary.

KALAHI-CIDSS, in turn, is a community-driven development project authored by Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman which empowers communities in overcoming poverty through capability building and participation in development planning. KALAHI-CIDSS, through World Bank, provides grants to the communities while the local government units share their counterpart for the implementation and completion of subprojects in the areas.

The Subanen Tribe is one of the targets of KALAHI-CIDSS in empowering them for their inclusion to the local development planning since they themselves know and experience the socio-economic conditions of their communities, such as lack of basic facilities like schools, health stations, bridges, and roads.

By enabling the tribe in identifying the needs of their communities and during the construction of subprojects armed with capability building trainings, they will become empowered to participate in other community activities in the future.

During the launching of Makamasang Tugon in Don Victoriano, they had ceremonious tribal dance and chants that expressed their appreciation for the government’s initiative in including them as beneficiaries of the said Project. According to the tribe leader, who is also the barangay captain of Barangay Mansawan, Sergio Barimbao, the Subanen tribe has long desired to be recognized as contributory to the development in the country, specifically in Mindanao.

“The Makamasang Tugon will surely give us an opportunity to show the world that we too can make a difference,” said Sergio.

LGU Baliangao, Mis. Occ. receives LQF machine from Nabcor

BALIANGAO, Misamis Occidental– A Liquid Quick Freeze (LQF) machine worth P 4.65 million had been turned-over by the National Agribusiness Corp. (Nabcor), to the local government unit (LGU), here, yesterday, Aug. 8.

This brings to seven (7), the total number of LGU’s, in region 10, that has received the facility. The other six (6) are: Sapang Dalaga and Sinacaban also in Mis. Occ., Sultan Naga Dimaporo (SND) and Tubod, in Lanao Norte, Balingasag in Mis. Oriental, and Mambajao in Camiguin.

Established through a counter-parting scheme, the machine was provided by Nabcor, an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture (DA), while the shed, single phase line, water system and manpower for the initial operation of the machine is shouldered by the LGU at an estimated cost of Php500,000.

Ma. Jayd-da Mayoralgo, Nabcor Vice-President, said the LQF uses a revolutionary method of freezing through the use of a super conductive liquid that can instantly freeze agri-fishery products due to its very low temperature, preserving its flavor and freshness.

She said aside from its freezing capability, the LQF can also make ice blocks which can benefit not only the fishing industry but other business establishments like restaurants.

“It is envisioned that the LQF will be treated as a business enterprise and when put into maximum use will trigger the development of the agri-fishery industry in the area and contribute to the economic development of the locality,” Mayoralgo added.

Set up in Barangay Mitacas, Baliangao town, the LQF machine has been considered a new milestone for the agri- fishery industry of this coastal area in the province with its vast marine resources. Meanwhile, Regional Director Visa Dimerin of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), region 10, said they are in full support to the town’s endeavor by encouraging the locality to engage in projects supportive of developing fishery production.

Present during the LQF turn over and blessing were: Mayor Svetlana P. Jaloslos, Vice-Mayor Agapito E. Yap III, Sangguniang Bayan members, and Municipal Agriculturist Jude Bueno, local fisherfolk.

Also present were Provincial Agricultural Officer Jose Satorre, Nabcor Area Manager Samuel Simbajon and Ma. Tita B. Rodriquez, Head, Presidential Management Staff in the region.

‘3 members’ of Ozamiz robbery group nabbed

POLICE arrested three alleged members of a robbery group in Barangay Bankal, Lapu-Lapu City yesterday morning.

Nelson, Harold and Eldie were caught by operatives of the Provincial Intelligence Branch, led by Senior Insp. Mark Sucalit.

Their arrest came after a suspected drug pusher was caught in a buy-bust in Bogo City last Wednesday.

Last names withheld

Cebu Provincial Police Office Acting Director Patrocinio Comendador asked reporters to withhold the family names of the suspects, who are in their mid-20s, because they are still conducting follow-up operations.

He said he received reports the suspects, who hail from Zamboanga del Sur, belong to an Ozamiz robbery group.

They are also not discounting the possibility the three men are guns-for-hire, he said.

Comendador said they caught the suspects after they served an arrest warrant against their companion, who has a murder case.

Two .45 pistols with 12 bullets, a .38 revolver with five bullets, a hand grenade, four sachets of shabu and drug paraphernalia were allegedly recovered from them.

Nelson denied they are robbers and paid killers. He said he and his cou-sin Harold are jeep-ney conductors.

More denial

“Binuang na nga esturya (The accusations are not true),” he said.

Eldie, for his part, said he has been a construction worker for four years.

Nelson said the .45 pistol was given to them by a friend. However, he denied they owned the other guns, grenade and the sachets of shabu.

Comendador said they are coordinating with the Mandaue City Police Office because the suspects might be involved in the death of businessman Antonio Ouano. He said the group’s hideout is in northern Cebu.


Cops seize suspected shabu, video karera

OZAMIS CITY-Police scores twenty seven units of video Karera Machines and forty seven sachets of suspected shabu in a raid conducted at the residence of a certain Anselma Labida the other day at Barangay San Roque. P/Supt. Gervacio Balmaceda Jr., the chief of police of Ozamiz, said the raid was conducted at Labida's residence by virtue of the search warrant issued by Judge Edmundo Pintac of Regional Trial Court Branch 15.

He said, the operation was well-planned however the subject house was protected with the long-way of foot-bridge of which a great advantage for the pusher or the home owner together with the users to run from the law enforcers.

No persons were caught during the raid because of delayed entrance of the raiding team.

"The markers given by my informant were all accurate and the subjected house on the search warrant ay tama din, kaya lang na-delayed kami ng pasok dahil sa mga harang na nilagay sa daanan," PSupt Balmaceda explained. The police searched the rooms of Labida's house and found small rolls of foils with small packs of white substance believed to be shabu, hidden under the bed of the third room. The subjected residence is having three rooms.

The raiding team found a bag almost filled with used foils right at the counter where shabu trading is being made.

PNP and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has conducted several operations against shabu in Barangay San Roque for the past weeks and captured number of pushers and users in buy bust operation.

Superintendent Balmaceda said, there is a marching order of Ozamiz City Mayor Nova Princess Parojinog-Echavez to continually run after this shabu traders in the city. Appropriate charges against Anselma Labida is now being filed in the court and the evidences were brought to the provincial crime laboratory for proper identification.

Officer's wife to NPA: Please release my husband

OZAMIZ CITY, Philippines -- The wife of a jail officer abducted by New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas last July in Bukidnon has appealed for the release of her husband “for the sake of our daughters.”

“Our two daughters have been asking why their father has not yet returned home,” said an emotional Carylle Bajuyo, wife of Jail Officer 1 Rolando Bajuyo assigned at a Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) facility here.

Their two children, aged four and seven, knew that Bajuyo was going away on July 20 to escort eight sentenced prisoners to be jailed at the Davao Penal Colony, Carylle said.

But early the following morning, over a hundred communist guerrillas blocked the team in Kitaotao, Bukidnon and rescued a comrade, Dennis Rodenas, whom the rebels claimed was “unjustly” convicted by a Misamis Occidental court on trumped-up charges.

As the rebels escaped, they took away 13 firearms and for human shields Bajuyo, Jail Inspectors Murphy Todyog and Eric Llamasares, and Senior Jail Officer 2 Rogelio Begontes.

“I trust that the NPA understands they are not combatants,” Carylle appealed.

Their seven-year old daughter seems to already know that her father is in the custody of the rebels; she has had fever for the past several days, possibly from the anxiety brought about by the situation, Carylle said.

“She is very close to him. He puts her to sleep every night,” the mother said.

The BJMP regional office has assured the families of the jail officers that it has been negotiating for the safe and speedy release of the captives, although nothing much seems to have moved forward, added Carylle.

“We assure their families and loved ones that they are in good health and are treated well by the NPA and the revolutionary mass base,” said a July 30 statement of Rigoberto F. Sanchez of the NPA’s Merardo Arce Command in southern Mindanao.

“Their basic rights are respected and their well-being ensured,” Sanchez added.

The rebels justified the continuing captivity of the BJMP personnel for supposedly “performing police work in the reactionary state's prisons which serve as a vital cog in the (government’s) counterrevolutionary war.”

“There is no question that the four are armed, active and regular officers of the armed counterrevolutionary and coercive apparatus of the reactionary government,” said Sanchez.

The rebels have demanded a halt to existing pursuit operations so that negotiations for the release of the four captives can be pursued.

Rice subsidy

A big number of poor farmers and fisherfolk already benefited from the government’s rice subsidy program (RSP) in the five provinces of Northern Mindanao.

Benefiting from the RSP are the provinces of Lanao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Camiguin, and Bukidnon.

The RSP concept is the Cash for Training and Cash for Work (CFT/CFW) program of the national government intended for the poorest of the poor villages in the countryside, especially those in far-flung communities.

The RSP through a four-day Cash for Training, and a seven-day Cash for Work program is also a short-term intervention to provide temporary employment to small-scale farmers and fisherfolk particularly to families who are distressed/displaced or needing assistance during the lean season by participating in or undertaking preparedness, mitigation, relief, rehabilitation or risk reduction projects and activities in their communities or in evacuation centers.

The program is being implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) with the support of the respective local government units (LGUs).