Difference between revisions of "Zamboanga del Sur News March 2015"

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==WEM-RIC promotes container gardening==
*Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371426748296/wem-ric-promotes-container-gardening
*Friday, March 20, 2015
:By Gideon C. Corgue  (FPG/GCC/PIA9-Pagadian City)
PAGADIAN, March 20 (PIA) – The Women Empowerment Movement-Rural Improvement Club (WEM-RIC) is now promoting container gardening to its members.
As one of the activities lined up for 2015 Women’s Month, the WEM-RIC officers led by its president, Junaflor Cerilles, would visit the province’s 26 municipalities purposely to promote container gardening, as “it brings health benefits to women.”
Container gardening is growing plants in containers like plastic bottles and bags instead of planting them on the ground.
The WEM-RIC officers teach all women members to grow chocolate mint, a medicinal plant, in their respective houses.
Cerilles said she used to drink a tea made of chocolate mint. “Every morning I used to pick three fresh chocolate mint leaves and placed it in a mug filled with hot water and drink it.”
Cerilles added the chocolate mint can be planted in a plastic container and its leaves can be used as tea.
“Chocolate mint grows and creeps like a weed. It spreads rapidly, forming underground root systems and taking over your garden. To prevent it from spreading keep your chocolate mint in containers,” she explained.
WEM-RIC officers provided chocolate mint seedlings to all WEM-RIC municipal federated presidents for them to plant and share to all their members.
“The WEM-RIC members can use it as herbal medicine and can also sell it to their neighbor for their livelihood,” Cerilles pointed out.
In another development, Cerilles also disclosed that a seaweed production for Christian and Muslim women in Dimataling town and bead making for Indigenous People’s (IPs) women in Josefina municipality are ongoing.   
Just recently, Cerilles said, she received a grant from Australian government  for the construction of breeder house facility for rice duck.
“I am proud to announce that the Australian government has granted the WEM-RIC $200 thousand, equivalent to P8 million. We have another proposal for Global Women Issue to fund our other projects,” she concluded.
==GSIS-Pagadian conducts first offsite UMID enrolment in Sibugay==
*Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1361426741805/gsis-pagadian-conducts-first-offsite-umid-enrolment-in-sibugay-
*Thursday, March 19, 2015
:By Alma Lacharon-Tingcang (FPG/ALT-PIA9/Zamboanga Sibugay)
IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay, March 19 (PIA) - The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)-Pagadian branch conducted its first offsite UMID card enrolment here on March 16-17, 2015.
The UMID card enrolment is part of the service desk package that the GSIS has established every 3rd week of the month in the province of Zamboanga Sibugay.
The service desk, manned by Ronyl L. Reyes and  Mardy I. Bartido entertained queries, received loan applications, retirement applications, maturity benefits and  other claims such as death and funeral benefits.
Among those who availed of the offsite UMID card enrolment was Mayor Eldwin D. Alibutdan together with other LGU employees. This was made possible through coordination with the concerned LGUs and the Provincial/Municipal Human Resource Management Office.
Engr. Leoncito S. Manuel, GSIS branch manager said the offsite UMID enrolment will be replicated in other municipalities to bring government services closer to the people.
Through the establishment of the service desk in Zamboanga Sibugay, members and pensioners would just have to transact business here and be able to save money for fare and other expenses.
In a related development, Reyes turned-over a check amounting to P3,012.00 to Sangguniang Bayan Member Amaron B. Morrok of LGU Siay which was an overpayment of his consolidated loan with the GSIS.
The pension fund undertakes to regain the trust and confidence of stakeholders and promote an efficient organization that is fully-automated and member-focused.
GSIS will relentlessly pursue continual improvement in their services driven by integrity, professionalism and a culture of public service.
==BIR-RR15’s 2015 collection target set at P6.57-B==
*Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1431426654583/bir-rr15-s-2015-collection-target-set-at-p6-57-b
*Wednesday, March 18, 2015
:By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)
PAGADIAN CITY, March 18 (PIA) – Tax collection target of each regional and district offices of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is increasing every year and this poses a big challenge not only to the BIR personnel but to the taxpayers as well.
Atty. Alert B. Alcocilja, regional director of BIR-Revenue Region 15 based in Zamboanga City, bared in yesterday’s launching of the “2015 Tax Campaign” that the region’s tax collection target for the current year is P6.57 billion, P1.6 billion more than last year’s collection goal.
Speaking before the representatives of the different government line agencies, local government units, businessmen, non-government organizations, professionals and others, Alcocilja admitted that BIR-RR15 failed to meet its tax collection target last year but it recorded an increase in its actual collection of 10.31 percent as against its 2013 target.
He cited five reasons hindering the region from reaching its last year’s target such as a decrease in government projects, migration of taxpayers, carried over losses from previous years, power interruptions and high collection goal.
Another thing that is likely to affect its collection target for this year is the increase in tax exemption in bonuses of workers from P30 thousand to P82 thousand in that the government stands to lose P30 billion in taxes.
To cope with its collection goal, the BIR aims to pursue the “Oplan Kandado,” campaign drive on professional and self-employed taxpayers, Run After The Evaders (RATE) program, utilization of relief data in audit and investigation and campaign for voluntary payment of all taxpayers.
Appealing to the participants in yesterday’s kickoff program, Alcocilja said: “Please help the BIR meet its tax collection goal by paying your taxes not out of fear or compulsion but out of love of the country.”
BIR-RR15 is composed of the revenue district offices of Zamboanga City, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, Dipolog City, Pagadian City, Basilan Province, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
==Zumba dance tilt caps Women’s Month celebration in Dumalinao town==
*Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1361426568462/zumba-dance-tilt-caps-women-s-month-celebration-in-dumalinao-town
*Tuesday, March 17, 2015
:By Alma Lacharon-Tingcang(FPG/ALT-PIA9/Zamboanga Sibugay)
DUMALINAO, Zamboanga del Sur, March 17 (PIA) - Over a thousand women from the 30 barangays of this town gathered at Dumalinao Regional Pilot School (DRPS) gymnasium to celebrate Women’s Month on Saturday, March 14, 2015.
This year’s theme, “Juana, Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw Na,” recognizes the role of women in nation-building and their contribution to our economy.
The celebration started with a mass after which a parade around the town’s major streets winded up at Dumalinao Regional Pilot School gymnasium for the program.
“Every day we celebrate women’s day because they are our inspiration. They raise our children well and guide them to the right path. She is the light of every home. We find women in politics, the armed forces, banking and finance, technology and other fields which we thought only men would fit in,” Mayor Ace William E. Cerilles said in his inspirational message.
He quoted the words of former US Secretary of State  Madeleine K. Albright, who was the first woman to hold the position, “Women’s empowerment is gaining ground because so many brave women have been unwilling to accept anything less. Our collective experience has shown that when women have the power to make their own choices, good things happen.”
Receiving the loudest applause was the Zumba competition among 7 groups which was the highlight of the celebration with mothers sweating it out for the first prize of P5,000 bagged by Barangay Sumadat ; second prize went to Barangay Pag-asa - P3,000; and 3rd prize – Barangay Sebucao winning P2,000. A consolation prize of P500 each was also given to participating barangays.
Capping the celebration was the free medical check-up and feeding for children by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, a forum on women’s rights, health and other issues.
Prizes were given to lucky participants such as: 24” LED TV, sofa bed, cherry mobile phone, 1 sack of rice and 20 packs of 10 kilos rice. The Juanas could not contain their excitement and fun during the whole day activity.
In closing, Ms. Junaflor S. Cerilles, the town first lady and president of the Women Empowerment Movement-Rural Improvement Club (WEM-RIC) Zamboanga del Sur Federated president said, “To all Juanas, let us continue to be counted upon in nation-building and economic growth. We have a great responsibility on our shoulders. Let us live up to the highest ideals because our children look up to us as role models.”
==1CAV spearheads free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs==
*Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371426484875/1cav-spearheads-free-anti-rabies-vaccination-for-dogs
*Monday, March 16, 2015
:By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)   
LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur, March 16 (PIA) – In line with the government’s goal of a rabies-free Philippines, the 1st Cavalry Squadron (Tagapanguna) Battalion (1CAV), Mechanized Infantry Division, Philippine Army in partnership with the Office of Provincial Veterinarian conducted on Friday a free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs at its headquarters in Camp Col. Jacobe Zobel, Pulacan in this town.
Lt. Col. Charlemagne Batayola Jr., 1CAV commanding officer said pet owners composed of military personnel, dependents and civilians brought their respective dogs inside the headquarters for vaccination.
Batayola said at least 50 dogs were given vaccination against rabies during the said activity.
Rabies awareness is celebrated annually every 3rd month of the year pursuant to Anti-Rabies Law of 2007 otherwise known as Republic Act 9482.
Batayola said the activity is a manifestation of the 1CAV’s support to the anti-rabies campaign of Department of Health (DOH) conducted every month of March, which seeks to make the Philippines a rabies-free by 2020.
Rabies is a fatal and viral disease that can be transmitted to humans through bites of infected animals, usually dogs.
Batayola believes that dog vaccination is the key strategy to control and eliminate rabies.
Batayola said a study reveals that Philippines is one of the top ten countries with rabies problem.
“The DOH has reported that rabies causes 200-300 deaths among Filipinos every year thus the government is relentlessly pursuing its campaign to completely eradicate rabies in the country in the next coming five years,” Batayola said.
“Kahit maliit lamang na bagay na aming gingawa pero naniniwala ako na ito ay sapat na makatulong sa rabies problem ng ating bansa. Ang mahalaga’y makapagbigay kami ng kontribusyon para gawin namin ang aming area na isang ligtas na lugar,” Batayola explained.
(Even though what we are doing is just a little thing but I believe that this can help solve rabies problem in our country. What is important is that we can give our contribution for us to make our area a safer place to live).
Batayola also underscored the importance of continuously educating the public to further increase their awareness not only on the nature, symptoms, prevention and control of rabies but also on the provisions of the anti-rabies law as well as the guidelines for responsible pet ownership.
==Sominot No. 10 Most Wanted, 6 Other Wanted Persons Caught==
*Source: http://pro9.pnp.gov.ph/index.php/public-relations/news-release/1046-sominot-no-10-most-wanted-6-other-wanted-persons-caught
*Sunday, March 15, 2015
:By  PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul (RPIO9)
RT Lim, Zamboanga Sibugay – A farmer listed as the no. 10 Most Wanted Person in Sominot was arrested by elements of RT Lim and Sominot Police Stations during a manhunt operation in Barangay JS Perfecto, Sominot, Zamboanga Del Sur at about 5:45 PM on March 10, 2015.
Police Inspector Jimmy Albert Decin, RT Lim Police Chief, identified the arrested man as Cornelio Cati-An y Mijares, 47, a resident of Brgy. Poblacion Sominot. Suspect was arrested by virtue of warrant docketed under Criminal Case Number 11-10,820, with recommended bail bond of Php 200,000.00 issued by Acting Presiding Judge Jaime B Caberte, RTC 9th Judicial Region, Branch 30, Aurora, Zamboanga Del Sur. Suspect is now under the custody of RT Lim MPS for documentation and further disposition.
Roxas, Zamboanga Del Norte – A man listed as the no. 6 Most Wanted Person in Roxas was arrested during a police operation conducted by Roxas MPS in Barangay Upper Irasan at about 6:15 A.M. on March 10, 2015. He was identified as Edmund Carbonel y Pilapil, 34, resident of said village. He was arrested at his residence by virtue of warrant filed under Criminal Case No. 18591 for frustrated murder with a recommended bail bond amounting to ₱200,000.00, issued by Presiding Judge Victoriano DL Lacaya Jr., of 9th Regional Trial Court, Branch 9, Dipolog City dated April 30, 2015. Suspect is temporarily detained at Roxas MPS for proper disposition.
Dimataling, Zamboanga Del Sur – A man tagged as the number 6 Most Wanted Person in this municipality was arrested during a police operation conducted by Dimataling MPS in Barangay Tiniguangan at about 4:00 AM of March 10, 2015. Police Inspector Renante Benitez, Dimataling Police Chief, identified the arrested person as Fernando Bustamante y Ordeniza, 40, resident of said place. He was arrested by virtue of warrant for homicide docketed under Criminal Case No. 11-069 with recommended bail bond fixed at Php 40,000.00 issued by Presiding Judge Edilberto G. Absin of RTC Branch 29, San Miguel. He is temporarily detained at the said police station for issuance of commitment order by the court.
Zamboanga City - Operatives of Zamboanga Police Station 4 led by Police Senior Inspector Helen L. Galvez, Station Commander, together with Zamboanga Police Station 5 personnel, conducted an operation in Zone 3 Barangay Talabaan at about 9:30 AM on March 10, 2015. This resulted in the arrest of Alexander Rojas y Fernandez, 55, laborer and resident of said place. This is by virtue of warrant of arrest for grave threat docketed under Criminal Case Number 30230 with a corresponding bail bond of Php 12,000.00 issued by Judge Peter V. Eisma of RTC Branch 15 dated March 4, 2015. Accused is temporarily detained at said police station prior his turn-over to court concerned.
Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay – A man facing a murder charge was collared by the operatives of Salug MPS, Siay MPS and Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Public Safety Company in Barangay Dacanay, Siay at about 4:45 P.M. of March 9, 2015. Suspect identified as Henry Etik Cabil, 46, resident of said village. He was arrested at his residence by virtue of warrant for murder docketed under Criminal Case Number L-002240 without bail bond, issued by Presiding Judge Oscar D. Tumarong, 9th RTC, Branch 28, Liloy, ZDN, dated December 17, 2014. Suspect is currently detained at Salug MPS for proper disposition.
Zamboanga City - Members of Zamboanga Police Station 11 Detective Management Unit (DMU) arrested Don Dunhill Dinsuat y Rubio at Lemon Drive, Brgy. Baliwasan at about 8:55 AM of March 10, 2015. He was arrested by virtue of warrant for violation of Section 12 of RA 9165 docketed under Criminal Case Number 29174 with recommended bail bond of Php 40,000.00 issued by Judge Eric D. Elumba, Regional Trial Court Branch 13 dated October 2, 2014. Accused is temporarily detained at said station prior his commitment to court.
Jose Dalman, Zamboanga Del Norte – A man wanted for attempted murder was arrested by elements of Jose Dalman MPS in Barangay Poblacion at about 12:30 P.M. of March 10, 2014. J. Dalman MPS chief, Senior Inspector Vergil Bruce Dario, identified the arrested suspect as Joyboy Gondola Guminta, 44, resident of Sitio Supot, Barangay Tamarok. He was arrested thru the aid of an informant by virtue of warrant for murder docketed in Criminal Case Number S-5034 without bail recommended,and for the crime of frustrated murder docketed in Criminal Case Number S-5035 with recommended bail bond amounting to ₱200,000.00, issued by Presiding Judge Reymar L. Lacaya of RTC, 9th Judicial Region, Branch 11 of Sindangan, Zamboanga Del Norte. Guminta is temporarily detained at said police station for proper disposition.
==Former OFW Arrested for Gun Possession in Aurora==
*Source: http://pro9.pnp.gov.ph/index.php/public-relations/news-release/1045-former-ofw-arrested-for-gun-possession-in-aurora
*Saturday, March 14, 2015
:By PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul (RPIO9)
Aurora, Zamboanga Del Sur – Operatives of Aurora Police Station arrested a former Overseas Filipino Worker after he was caught in possession of a caliber .45 pistol inside Café Rotonda at about 12:30 AM of March 9, 2015.
Police Senior Inspector Heidel B. Te-Elan, Aurora Police Chief, identified the arrested man as Kenneth Mayol y Flores, 41, resident of Purok Rosas B, Barangay San Jose. Seized from him were a Norinco cal. 45 pistol with serial number 831472 with a short magazine and six rounds of ammo and a black holster. The suspect is temporarily detained at said police station appropriate charges for violation of RA 10591 are filed against the suspect.
==Female Pusher, 2 Other Drug Suspects Nabbed==
*Source: http://pro9.pnp.gov.ph/index.php/public-relations/news-release/1041-female-pusher-2-other-drug-suspects-nabbed
*Friday, March 13, 2015
:By PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul (RPIO9)
Zamboanga City – A female suspected drug pusher was arrested during a buy-bust operation conducted by anti-illegal drug operatives of Zamboanga Central Police Station 11 in Marieta Drive, Barangay Sta. Catalina at about 7:00 PM of March 9, 2015. Suspect Belinda Najim y Estrellado, a.k.a. “Lin”, 42, female, a local resident, was arrested after two sachets of suspected shabu and Php 200.00 marked money were found in her possession. The arrested woman and confiscated items were brought to said police station for further investigation and documentation and were subsequently taken to the Regional Crime Laboratory Office 9 for qualitative and quantitative examinations.
Zamboanga City – Two individuals were arrested during a drug buy-bust operation conducted by anti-illegal drug operatives of Sta. Maria Police Station (PS7) in Feliciano Drive, Barangay San Roque at about 11:30 in the morning of March 9, 2015. Arrested persons were identified as Allan Jalanduni y Fuentes, 30, of said place, and Yusop Diego y Santos, 50, of Campo Islam, Brgy. Baliwasan. Confiscated from them were three sachets of suspected shabu and two hundred pesos marked money. They are presently detained at said police station for filing of appropriate charges in court.
Ramon Magsaysay, Zamboanga Del Sur – A mechanic was arrested during a drug buy-bust operation conducted by anti-illegal drug operatives of Ramon Magsaysay MPS in Sitio Alang-Alang, Barangay Poblacion at about 11:30 AM of March 9, 2015. Arrested was identified as Stephen Abel y Esparsia, 23, a resident of said place. Seized from him were nine small sachets of suspected shabu. The confiscated items were submitted to Provincial Crime Laboratory for confirmatory test, while the arrested suspect is now under the custody of Provincial AIDSOFT as a case is prepared against him in court for violation of RA 9165.
==1st Cavalry Squadron conducts ‘Brigada Eskwela’ in selected schools==
*Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371426035550/1st-cavalry-squadron-conducts-brigada-eskwela-in-selected-schools
*Thursday, March 12, 2015
:By  Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)
TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur, March 12 (PIA) – In its desire to help schoolchildren to have a clean, well-maintained and comfortable classroom during the opening of classes in June, the 1st Cavalry Squadron (Tagapanguna) Battalion, 1st Mechanized Infantry Division conducted “Brigada Eskwela” in Manlayag Elementary School last March 5 and 10 respectively.
Capt. Ronnie Halangdon, civil-military operations officer said Brigada Eskwela was an initiative of the unit designed to help teachers, parents and students in doing minor repairs and cleanup in the school in preparation for the start of the new school year. “This is also part of the enhanced Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan campaign of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP),” Halangdon added.
Halangdon said a squad of 1st Cavalry Squadron with its masonry and carpentry skills volunteered to make the school ready for the coming school year.
Asked why they implemented Brigada Eskwela early this March when it is usually held by the volunteers two weeks before the opening classes, Halangdon replied: “We did it in advance for we could no longer wait to see the schoolchildren attending classes with some of their chairs and tables are dilapidated.
“Naaawa kami sa mga bata na nag-aaral na galing pa sa kanilang malalayong bahay. Maraming bundok pa ang kanilang lalakarin bago nila maabot ang kanilang paaralan at sa pagpasok nila ang makikita nila ay ang mga depektibo nga lamesa, upuan at blackboard. Gusto namin na komportable ang kanilang pag-aaral habang nasa loob ng classroom,” Halangdon explained.
(We pity the schoolchildren who came all the way from faraway houses. They have to walk and climb several mountains before reaching their school and when they enter their classrooms, all they can see are defective tables, chairs and blackboards. We want them to feel comfortable inside their classrooms).
“This is the second time that we conducted Brigada Eskwela in public elementary schools. The first, was held in Navalan Elementary School. They are our adopted schools,” Halangdon disclosed.
Halangdon said the team repaired the chairs, tables and blackboards, cleaning the surroundings of the school and built a gate in the school.
Meanwhile, school principal Jessica Casio lauded the officers and men of 1st Cavalry Squadron (Tagapanguna) Battalion for doing the activity in her school saying that their efforts is a manifestation of their genuine concern not only for the schoolchildren but for the entire community as well.
“I am very thankful for the leadership of 1st Cavalry Squadron for giving their time and effort in realizing this activity,” Casio said.
“I thank them for choosing our school as their pilot area of their Bayanihan activities,” Casio said. She also revealed that these schoolchildren were the beneficiaries of the unit’s gift-giving activity dubbed “Love Drive Program” last Feb. 14.
==115 students hurdle DOST-SEI scholarship exam==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2015/03/11/115-students-hurdle-dost-sei-scholarship-exam-396903
*Wednesday, March 11, 2015
:By Bong Garcia
A TOP official of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) announced that 115 high school graduating students in Zamboanga Peninsula have passed the competitive Science and Technology (S&T) Scholarship Examination of the agency.
DOST Regional Director Brenda Nazareth-Manzano said the 115 students who passed the examination represent 8.8 percent of the 1,306 examinees who took the test last September 21, 2014 here in the region.
"The good news though is that, all the 73 municipalities and cities in the region have produced a DOST scholar," Manzano added.
Manzano said that two slots are provided for each city and municipality pursuant to Republic Act 7687, otherwise known as S&T Scholarship Act.
He said the province of Zamboanga del Norte has the most number of examinees who passed the scholarship examination.
The numbers of examinees who passed are as follows: Zamboanga del Norte, 45; Zamboanga del Sur, 39; Zamboanga Sibugay, 21; Zamboanga City, eight; and, Isabela City, two.
Manzano said incoming DOST-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) scholars, as well as those who are ongoing, are set to receive bigger stipends and other allowances starting school year 2015-2016.
She said all DOST-SEI scholars will receive P6,000 monthly stipend (from P5,000) under the Physics/Applied Physics, Geology, Mining Engineering, Agriculture, and Fisheries courses, while under the other DOST-SEI priority courses will receive P5,000 monthly stipend (from P4,000); book allowance of P10,000 per academic year (from P5,000); tuition subsidy of P10,000 (from P8,000); and MS/PE clothing allowance of P1,000 (from P500).
She said the scholars have to enroll in science and technology courses such as engineering and natural and physical sciences or other disciplines identified as priority courses under the program.
She said scholars are also expected to maintain the highest standards of scholastic achievement and behavior while in school.
The scholars will be properly notified for the schedule of orientation and signing of the Scholarship Agreement, she added.
==MEDCAP beneficiaries hail 1CAV, 1FAB for holding free health services==
==MEDCAP beneficiaries hail 1CAV, 1FAB for holding free health services==
*Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371425958187/medcap-beneficiaries-hail-1cav-1fab-for-holding-free-health-services
*Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371425958187/medcap-beneficiaries-hail-1cav-1fab-for-holding-free-health-services

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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:
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  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.
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WEM-RIC promotes container gardening

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA9-Pagadian City)

PAGADIAN, March 20 (PIA) – The Women Empowerment Movement-Rural Improvement Club (WEM-RIC) is now promoting container gardening to its members.

As one of the activities lined up for 2015 Women’s Month, the WEM-RIC officers led by its president, Junaflor Cerilles, would visit the province’s 26 municipalities purposely to promote container gardening, as “it brings health benefits to women.”

Container gardening is growing plants in containers like plastic bottles and bags instead of planting them on the ground.

The WEM-RIC officers teach all women members to grow chocolate mint, a medicinal plant, in their respective houses.

Cerilles said she used to drink a tea made of chocolate mint. “Every morning I used to pick three fresh chocolate mint leaves and placed it in a mug filled with hot water and drink it.”

Cerilles added the chocolate mint can be planted in a plastic container and its leaves can be used as tea.

“Chocolate mint grows and creeps like a weed. It spreads rapidly, forming underground root systems and taking over your garden. To prevent it from spreading keep your chocolate mint in containers,” she explained.

WEM-RIC officers provided chocolate mint seedlings to all WEM-RIC municipal federated presidents for them to plant and share to all their members.

“The WEM-RIC members can use it as herbal medicine and can also sell it to their neighbor for their livelihood,” Cerilles pointed out.

In another development, Cerilles also disclosed that a seaweed production for Christian and Muslim women in Dimataling town and bead making for Indigenous People’s (IPs) women in Josefina municipality are ongoing.

Just recently, Cerilles said, she received a grant from Australian government for the construction of breeder house facility for rice duck.

“I am proud to announce that the Australian government has granted the WEM-RIC $200 thousand, equivalent to P8 million. We have another proposal for Global Women Issue to fund our other projects,” she concluded.

GSIS-Pagadian conducts first offsite UMID enrolment in Sibugay

By Alma Lacharon-Tingcang (FPG/ALT-PIA9/Zamboanga Sibugay)

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay, March 19 (PIA) - The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)-Pagadian branch conducted its first offsite UMID card enrolment here on March 16-17, 2015.

The UMID card enrolment is part of the service desk package that the GSIS has established every 3rd week of the month in the province of Zamboanga Sibugay.

The service desk, manned by Ronyl L. Reyes and Mardy I. Bartido entertained queries, received loan applications, retirement applications, maturity benefits and other claims such as death and funeral benefits.

Among those who availed of the offsite UMID card enrolment was Mayor Eldwin D. Alibutdan together with other LGU employees. This was made possible through coordination with the concerned LGUs and the Provincial/Municipal Human Resource Management Office.

Engr. Leoncito S. Manuel, GSIS branch manager said the offsite UMID enrolment will be replicated in other municipalities to bring government services closer to the people.

Through the establishment of the service desk in Zamboanga Sibugay, members and pensioners would just have to transact business here and be able to save money for fare and other expenses.

In a related development, Reyes turned-over a check amounting to P3,012.00 to Sangguniang Bayan Member Amaron B. Morrok of LGU Siay which was an overpayment of his consolidated loan with the GSIS.

The pension fund undertakes to regain the trust and confidence of stakeholders and promote an efficient organization that is fully-automated and member-focused.

GSIS will relentlessly pursue continual improvement in their services driven by integrity, professionalism and a culture of public service.

BIR-RR15’s 2015 collection target set at P6.57-B

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)

PAGADIAN CITY, March 18 (PIA) – Tax collection target of each regional and district offices of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is increasing every year and this poses a big challenge not only to the BIR personnel but to the taxpayers as well.

Atty. Alert B. Alcocilja, regional director of BIR-Revenue Region 15 based in Zamboanga City, bared in yesterday’s launching of the “2015 Tax Campaign” that the region’s tax collection target for the current year is P6.57 billion, P1.6 billion more than last year’s collection goal.

Speaking before the representatives of the different government line agencies, local government units, businessmen, non-government organizations, professionals and others, Alcocilja admitted that BIR-RR15 failed to meet its tax collection target last year but it recorded an increase in its actual collection of 10.31 percent as against its 2013 target.

He cited five reasons hindering the region from reaching its last year’s target such as a decrease in government projects, migration of taxpayers, carried over losses from previous years, power interruptions and high collection goal.

Another thing that is likely to affect its collection target for this year is the increase in tax exemption in bonuses of workers from P30 thousand to P82 thousand in that the government stands to lose P30 billion in taxes.

To cope with its collection goal, the BIR aims to pursue the “Oplan Kandado,” campaign drive on professional and self-employed taxpayers, Run After The Evaders (RATE) program, utilization of relief data in audit and investigation and campaign for voluntary payment of all taxpayers.

Appealing to the participants in yesterday’s kickoff program, Alcocilja said: “Please help the BIR meet its tax collection goal by paying your taxes not out of fear or compulsion but out of love of the country.”

BIR-RR15 is composed of the revenue district offices of Zamboanga City, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, Dipolog City, Pagadian City, Basilan Province, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

Zumba dance tilt caps Women’s Month celebration in Dumalinao town

By Alma Lacharon-Tingcang(FPG/ALT-PIA9/Zamboanga Sibugay)

DUMALINAO, Zamboanga del Sur, March 17 (PIA) - Over a thousand women from the 30 barangays of this town gathered at Dumalinao Regional Pilot School (DRPS) gymnasium to celebrate Women’s Month on Saturday, March 14, 2015.

This year’s theme, “Juana, Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw Na,” recognizes the role of women in nation-building and their contribution to our economy.

The celebration started with a mass after which a parade around the town’s major streets winded up at Dumalinao Regional Pilot School gymnasium for the program.

“Every day we celebrate women’s day because they are our inspiration. They raise our children well and guide them to the right path. She is the light of every home. We find women in politics, the armed forces, banking and finance, technology and other fields which we thought only men would fit in,” Mayor Ace William E. Cerilles said in his inspirational message.

He quoted the words of former US Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright, who was the first woman to hold the position, “Women’s empowerment is gaining ground because so many brave women have been unwilling to accept anything less. Our collective experience has shown that when women have the power to make their own choices, good things happen.”

Receiving the loudest applause was the Zumba competition among 7 groups which was the highlight of the celebration with mothers sweating it out for the first prize of P5,000 bagged by Barangay Sumadat ; second prize went to Barangay Pag-asa - P3,000; and 3rd prize – Barangay Sebucao winning P2,000. A consolation prize of P500 each was also given to participating barangays.

Capping the celebration was the free medical check-up and feeding for children by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, a forum on women’s rights, health and other issues.

Prizes were given to lucky participants such as: 24” LED TV, sofa bed, cherry mobile phone, 1 sack of rice and 20 packs of 10 kilos rice. The Juanas could not contain their excitement and fun during the whole day activity.

In closing, Ms. Junaflor S. Cerilles, the town first lady and president of the Women Empowerment Movement-Rural Improvement Club (WEM-RIC) Zamboanga del Sur Federated president said, “To all Juanas, let us continue to be counted upon in nation-building and economic growth. We have a great responsibility on our shoulders. Let us live up to the highest ideals because our children look up to us as role models.”

1CAV spearheads free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur, March 16 (PIA) – In line with the government’s goal of a rabies-free Philippines, the 1st Cavalry Squadron (Tagapanguna) Battalion (1CAV), Mechanized Infantry Division, Philippine Army in partnership with the Office of Provincial Veterinarian conducted on Friday a free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs at its headquarters in Camp Col. Jacobe Zobel, Pulacan in this town.

Lt. Col. Charlemagne Batayola Jr., 1CAV commanding officer said pet owners composed of military personnel, dependents and civilians brought their respective dogs inside the headquarters for vaccination.

Batayola said at least 50 dogs were given vaccination against rabies during the said activity.

Rabies awareness is celebrated annually every 3rd month of the year pursuant to Anti-Rabies Law of 2007 otherwise known as Republic Act 9482.

Batayola said the activity is a manifestation of the 1CAV’s support to the anti-rabies campaign of Department of Health (DOH) conducted every month of March, which seeks to make the Philippines a rabies-free by 2020.

Rabies is a fatal and viral disease that can be transmitted to humans through bites of infected animals, usually dogs.

Batayola believes that dog vaccination is the key strategy to control and eliminate rabies.

Batayola said a study reveals that Philippines is one of the top ten countries with rabies problem.

“The DOH has reported that rabies causes 200-300 deaths among Filipinos every year thus the government is relentlessly pursuing its campaign to completely eradicate rabies in the country in the next coming five years,” Batayola said.

“Kahit maliit lamang na bagay na aming gingawa pero naniniwala ako na ito ay sapat na makatulong sa rabies problem ng ating bansa. Ang mahalaga’y makapagbigay kami ng kontribusyon para gawin namin ang aming area na isang ligtas na lugar,” Batayola explained.

(Even though what we are doing is just a little thing but I believe that this can help solve rabies problem in our country. What is important is that we can give our contribution for us to make our area a safer place to live).

Batayola also underscored the importance of continuously educating the public to further increase their awareness not only on the nature, symptoms, prevention and control of rabies but also on the provisions of the anti-rabies law as well as the guidelines for responsible pet ownership.

Sominot No. 10 Most Wanted, 6 Other Wanted Persons Caught

By PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul (RPIO9)

RT Lim, Zamboanga Sibugay – A farmer listed as the no. 10 Most Wanted Person in Sominot was arrested by elements of RT Lim and Sominot Police Stations during a manhunt operation in Barangay JS Perfecto, Sominot, Zamboanga Del Sur at about 5:45 PM on March 10, 2015.

Police Inspector Jimmy Albert Decin, RT Lim Police Chief, identified the arrested man as Cornelio Cati-An y Mijares, 47, a resident of Brgy. Poblacion Sominot. Suspect was arrested by virtue of warrant docketed under Criminal Case Number 11-10,820, with recommended bail bond of Php 200,000.00 issued by Acting Presiding Judge Jaime B Caberte, RTC 9th Judicial Region, Branch 30, Aurora, Zamboanga Del Sur. Suspect is now under the custody of RT Lim MPS for documentation and further disposition.

Roxas, Zamboanga Del Norte – A man listed as the no. 6 Most Wanted Person in Roxas was arrested during a police operation conducted by Roxas MPS in Barangay Upper Irasan at about 6:15 A.M. on March 10, 2015. He was identified as Edmund Carbonel y Pilapil, 34, resident of said village. He was arrested at his residence by virtue of warrant filed under Criminal Case No. 18591 for frustrated murder with a recommended bail bond amounting to ₱200,000.00, issued by Presiding Judge Victoriano DL Lacaya Jr., of 9th Regional Trial Court, Branch 9, Dipolog City dated April 30, 2015. Suspect is temporarily detained at Roxas MPS for proper disposition.

Dimataling, Zamboanga Del Sur – A man tagged as the number 6 Most Wanted Person in this municipality was arrested during a police operation conducted by Dimataling MPS in Barangay Tiniguangan at about 4:00 AM of March 10, 2015. Police Inspector Renante Benitez, Dimataling Police Chief, identified the arrested person as Fernando Bustamante y Ordeniza, 40, resident of said place. He was arrested by virtue of warrant for homicide docketed under Criminal Case No. 11-069 with recommended bail bond fixed at Php 40,000.00 issued by Presiding Judge Edilberto G. Absin of RTC Branch 29, San Miguel. He is temporarily detained at the said police station for issuance of commitment order by the court.

Zamboanga City - Operatives of Zamboanga Police Station 4 led by Police Senior Inspector Helen L. Galvez, Station Commander, together with Zamboanga Police Station 5 personnel, conducted an operation in Zone 3 Barangay Talabaan at about 9:30 AM on March 10, 2015. This resulted in the arrest of Alexander Rojas y Fernandez, 55, laborer and resident of said place. This is by virtue of warrant of arrest for grave threat docketed under Criminal Case Number 30230 with a corresponding bail bond of Php 12,000.00 issued by Judge Peter V. Eisma of RTC Branch 15 dated March 4, 2015. Accused is temporarily detained at said police station prior his turn-over to court concerned.

Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay – A man facing a murder charge was collared by the operatives of Salug MPS, Siay MPS and Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Public Safety Company in Barangay Dacanay, Siay at about 4:45 P.M. of March 9, 2015. Suspect identified as Henry Etik Cabil, 46, resident of said village. He was arrested at his residence by virtue of warrant for murder docketed under Criminal Case Number L-002240 without bail bond, issued by Presiding Judge Oscar D. Tumarong, 9th RTC, Branch 28, Liloy, ZDN, dated December 17, 2014. Suspect is currently detained at Salug MPS for proper disposition.

Zamboanga City - Members of Zamboanga Police Station 11 Detective Management Unit (DMU) arrested Don Dunhill Dinsuat y Rubio at Lemon Drive, Brgy. Baliwasan at about 8:55 AM of March 10, 2015. He was arrested by virtue of warrant for violation of Section 12 of RA 9165 docketed under Criminal Case Number 29174 with recommended bail bond of Php 40,000.00 issued by Judge Eric D. Elumba, Regional Trial Court Branch 13 dated October 2, 2014. Accused is temporarily detained at said station prior his commitment to court.

Jose Dalman, Zamboanga Del Norte – A man wanted for attempted murder was arrested by elements of Jose Dalman MPS in Barangay Poblacion at about 12:30 P.M. of March 10, 2014. J. Dalman MPS chief, Senior Inspector Vergil Bruce Dario, identified the arrested suspect as Joyboy Gondola Guminta, 44, resident of Sitio Supot, Barangay Tamarok. He was arrested thru the aid of an informant by virtue of warrant for murder docketed in Criminal Case Number S-5034 without bail recommended,and for the crime of frustrated murder docketed in Criminal Case Number S-5035 with recommended bail bond amounting to ₱200,000.00, issued by Presiding Judge Reymar L. Lacaya of RTC, 9th Judicial Region, Branch 11 of Sindangan, Zamboanga Del Norte. Guminta is temporarily detained at said police station for proper disposition.

Former OFW Arrested for Gun Possession in Aurora

By PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul (RPIO9)

Aurora, Zamboanga Del Sur – Operatives of Aurora Police Station arrested a former Overseas Filipino Worker after he was caught in possession of a caliber .45 pistol inside Café Rotonda at about 12:30 AM of March 9, 2015.

Police Senior Inspector Heidel B. Te-Elan, Aurora Police Chief, identified the arrested man as Kenneth Mayol y Flores, 41, resident of Purok Rosas B, Barangay San Jose. Seized from him were a Norinco cal. 45 pistol with serial number 831472 with a short magazine and six rounds of ammo and a black holster. The suspect is temporarily detained at said police station appropriate charges for violation of RA 10591 are filed against the suspect.

Female Pusher, 2 Other Drug Suspects Nabbed

By PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul (RPIO9)

Zamboanga City – A female suspected drug pusher was arrested during a buy-bust operation conducted by anti-illegal drug operatives of Zamboanga Central Police Station 11 in Marieta Drive, Barangay Sta. Catalina at about 7:00 PM of March 9, 2015. Suspect Belinda Najim y Estrellado, a.k.a. “Lin”, 42, female, a local resident, was arrested after two sachets of suspected shabu and Php 200.00 marked money were found in her possession. The arrested woman and confiscated items were brought to said police station for further investigation and documentation and were subsequently taken to the Regional Crime Laboratory Office 9 for qualitative and quantitative examinations.

Zamboanga City – Two individuals were arrested during a drug buy-bust operation conducted by anti-illegal drug operatives of Sta. Maria Police Station (PS7) in Feliciano Drive, Barangay San Roque at about 11:30 in the morning of March 9, 2015. Arrested persons were identified as Allan Jalanduni y Fuentes, 30, of said place, and Yusop Diego y Santos, 50, of Campo Islam, Brgy. Baliwasan. Confiscated from them were three sachets of suspected shabu and two hundred pesos marked money. They are presently detained at said police station for filing of appropriate charges in court.

Ramon Magsaysay, Zamboanga Del Sur – A mechanic was arrested during a drug buy-bust operation conducted by anti-illegal drug operatives of Ramon Magsaysay MPS in Sitio Alang-Alang, Barangay Poblacion at about 11:30 AM of March 9, 2015. Arrested was identified as Stephen Abel y Esparsia, 23, a resident of said place. Seized from him were nine small sachets of suspected shabu. The confiscated items were submitted to Provincial Crime Laboratory for confirmatory test, while the arrested suspect is now under the custody of Provincial AIDSOFT as a case is prepared against him in court for violation of RA 9165.

1st Cavalry Squadron conducts ‘Brigada Eskwela’ in selected schools

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur, March 12 (PIA) – In its desire to help schoolchildren to have a clean, well-maintained and comfortable classroom during the opening of classes in June, the 1st Cavalry Squadron (Tagapanguna) Battalion, 1st Mechanized Infantry Division conducted “Brigada Eskwela” in Manlayag Elementary School last March 5 and 10 respectively.

Capt. Ronnie Halangdon, civil-military operations officer said Brigada Eskwela was an initiative of the unit designed to help teachers, parents and students in doing minor repairs and cleanup in the school in preparation for the start of the new school year. “This is also part of the enhanced Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan campaign of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP),” Halangdon added.

Halangdon said a squad of 1st Cavalry Squadron with its masonry and carpentry skills volunteered to make the school ready for the coming school year.

Asked why they implemented Brigada Eskwela early this March when it is usually held by the volunteers two weeks before the opening classes, Halangdon replied: “We did it in advance for we could no longer wait to see the schoolchildren attending classes with some of their chairs and tables are dilapidated.

“Naaawa kami sa mga bata na nag-aaral na galing pa sa kanilang malalayong bahay. Maraming bundok pa ang kanilang lalakarin bago nila maabot ang kanilang paaralan at sa pagpasok nila ang makikita nila ay ang mga depektibo nga lamesa, upuan at blackboard. Gusto namin na komportable ang kanilang pag-aaral habang nasa loob ng classroom,” Halangdon explained.

(We pity the schoolchildren who came all the way from faraway houses. They have to walk and climb several mountains before reaching their school and when they enter their classrooms, all they can see are defective tables, chairs and blackboards. We want them to feel comfortable inside their classrooms).

“This is the second time that we conducted Brigada Eskwela in public elementary schools. The first, was held in Navalan Elementary School. They are our adopted schools,” Halangdon disclosed.

Halangdon said the team repaired the chairs, tables and blackboards, cleaning the surroundings of the school and built a gate in the school.

Meanwhile, school principal Jessica Casio lauded the officers and men of 1st Cavalry Squadron (Tagapanguna) Battalion for doing the activity in her school saying that their efforts is a manifestation of their genuine concern not only for the schoolchildren but for the entire community as well.

“I am very thankful for the leadership of 1st Cavalry Squadron for giving their time and effort in realizing this activity,” Casio said.

“I thank them for choosing our school as their pilot area of their Bayanihan activities,” Casio said. She also revealed that these schoolchildren were the beneficiaries of the unit’s gift-giving activity dubbed “Love Drive Program” last Feb. 14.

115 students hurdle DOST-SEI scholarship exam

By Bong Garcia

A TOP official of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) announced that 115 high school graduating students in Zamboanga Peninsula have passed the competitive Science and Technology (S&T) Scholarship Examination of the agency.

DOST Regional Director Brenda Nazareth-Manzano said the 115 students who passed the examination represent 8.8 percent of the 1,306 examinees who took the test last September 21, 2014 here in the region.

"The good news though is that, all the 73 municipalities and cities in the region have produced a DOST scholar," Manzano added.

Manzano said that two slots are provided for each city and municipality pursuant to Republic Act 7687, otherwise known as S&T Scholarship Act.

He said the province of Zamboanga del Norte has the most number of examinees who passed the scholarship examination.

The numbers of examinees who passed are as follows: Zamboanga del Norte, 45; Zamboanga del Sur, 39; Zamboanga Sibugay, 21; Zamboanga City, eight; and, Isabela City, two.

Manzano said incoming DOST-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) scholars, as well as those who are ongoing, are set to receive bigger stipends and other allowances starting school year 2015-2016.

She said all DOST-SEI scholars will receive P6,000 monthly stipend (from P5,000) under the Physics/Applied Physics, Geology, Mining Engineering, Agriculture, and Fisheries courses, while under the other DOST-SEI priority courses will receive P5,000 monthly stipend (from P4,000); book allowance of P10,000 per academic year (from P5,000); tuition subsidy of P10,000 (from P8,000); and MS/PE clothing allowance of P1,000 (from P500).

She said the scholars have to enroll in science and technology courses such as engineering and natural and physical sciences or other disciplines identified as priority courses under the program.

She said scholars are also expected to maintain the highest standards of scholastic achievement and behavior while in school.

The scholars will be properly notified for the schedule of orientation and signing of the Scholarship Agreement, she added.


MEDCAP beneficiaries hail 1CAV, 1FAB for holding free health services

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur, March 10 (PIA) –Residents of barangay Manlayag here expressed their gratitude to the Philippine Army (PA) for successfully conducting a Medical and Dental Civic Action Program (MEDCAP), benefiting 304 poor people in this far-flung community.

The 1st Cavalry Squadron (Tagapanguna) Battalion of Mechanized Infantry Division and 1st Field Artillery Battalion of Army Artillery Regiment conducted the MEDCAP at Manlayag Elementary School here last March 7 as part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan.

Esmeralda Padro, 52, a mother of 13 children said all of her 9 male children have availed of free circumcision during the MEDCAP.

She arrived very early with her three children at Manlayag Elementary School to avail of the said free services.

“Nalipay ko ug dako nga ang medical and dental mission gihimo dinhi sa among barangay aron kami makapahimulos sa libre nga serbisyo sa kagamhanan. Layo kaayo ang among health center sa among dapit mao nga igo na lang kami magpaabot nga ang mga programa sa gobyerno moduol sa amoa,” Padro happily said.

(I am very thankful that the medical and dental mission was conducted in our barangay for us to avail of free health services from the government. Our health center is very far from our place. That is why we will just wait for the government programs to come to us.)

Alvin, 9, and Marjun, 7, have availed themselves of free circumcision. While their elder sister, Cherry, 12, availed herself of free tooth extraction and free medical checkup and medicines for their paprents.

“Pinaagi sa ilang gihatag nga libre nga serbisyo sa amoa dili na mobati ug kaulaw ang akong mga anak sulod sa ilang lawak-klasehanan,” Padro said whose three young children are attending classes at Manlayag Elementary School.

(With the free services the government provided us, our children are now inspired to attend their classes.)

Ricardo Laylay was also grateful for the activity saying that his two male children Kelvin, 9, and Carlo, 5, have also availed of the free circumcision.

“Dili na ko mogasto ug panahon ug kwarta nga moadto sa health center sa lungsod aron akong ipatuli ang akong mga anak tungod kay ang gobyerno miduol sa mga tawo sa among barangay,” Laylay said.

(I need not to spend time and efforts to go to our health center just to have my sons circumcised because the government is now bringing its services closer to the people right in our barangay.)

“Kini nga kalihokan dako kaayo kini ug ikatabang ilabi na kanamo nga mga kabus nga mulupyo kinsa dili maka-afford mo-adto sa doctor, Laylay added.

(This activity is a big help especially for the poor who can’t afford to go to a doctor.)

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Charlemagne Batayola Jr., commanding officer of the

1st Cavalry Squadron battalion said the activity was just a follow-up of the gift-giving activity conducted by the units last Feb. 13 dubbed “Love Drive Program” wherein poor residents of Barangay Manlayag had received food packs, used clothing and slippers from the units, and the Brigada Eskwela last March 1 where the troopers helped the teachers, parents and students in doing minor repairs and cleanup on the school in preparation for the start of the next school year.

Over 300 Tukuran villagers benefit from free medical, dental services

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur, March 9 (PIA) – At least 304 villagers have received on Saturday free medical and dental services extended by the medical and dental teams of the 1st Infantry Tabak Division, Philippine Army at Manlayag Elementary School here.

The medical and dental mission was a joint undertaking of the 1st Cavalry Squadron (Tagapanugna) Battalion, Mechanized Infantry Division and 1st Field Artillery Battalion (1FAB), Army Artillery Regiment with the support of the Tabak Dental Office and Pagadian City Health Office, conducting medical checkup, consultation, circumcision and tooth extraction with free medicines.

Lt. Col. Charlemagne Batayola Jr., commanding officer of 1st Cavalry Squadron in his message said the activity was to show care and genuine concern for stakeholders as part of the enhanced Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan activities of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) which seeks to intensify engagement of stakeholders.

Batayola said the AFP Bayanihan teams were directed by the higher headquarters to perform over and above their usual tasks in bringing peace in far-flung communities through peace projects and infrastructure development in coordination with the local government units and agencies, civil-society organizations and non-government organizations.

“Ang AFP ay magpapatupad pa ng maraming programa upang mapabuti ang kalagayan ng ating mamamayan at katulong ang lahat ng local government units at non-government organizations upang makamit ang minimithing kapayapaan at kaunlaran ng ating bayan,” Batayola said.

(The AFP will implement many programs to improve the living condition of our people and with the help of all local government units and non-government organizations to achieve the desired peace and progress of our nation).

1FAB commander Lt. Col. Sonny Sales in his message delivered by Capt. Win Love Bag-ao, civil-military operations officer said the activity was initiated by the AFP to help the destitute families who could not afford to pay for the dental and medical services.

“Sa ginagawa naming medical and dental mission, maipadama naming mga sundalo ang totoong pagmamahal at serbisyo sa kapwa-tao lalong-lalo na sa mga mahihirap. Sa araw na ito, tayong lahat ay nagtipon-tipon at nagkakaisa upang makamit natin ang minimithing kasaganaan, kaunlaran, at kapayapaan,”Bag-ao said quoting Sales.

(In our medical and dental mission, we the soldiers can share our sincere love and service to our fellowmen especially to the poor. Today, we all gathered here and are united for us to achieve prosperity and peace.)

Meanwhile, Punong Barangay Cerelo Halang thanked the AFP for doing the activity in his barangay.

"Kami nagpasalamat sa AFP paghimo ning maong kalihokan dinhi sa among barangay pinaagi pagtanyag sa libre nga mga serbsiyo. Sa pagkatinuod lang, dako kaayo ni ug katabang sa among mga katawhan nga dili gyud makagasto pagpapatuli sa ilang mga anak nga lalaki, pagpaibot sa ngipon, ug uban pa,” Halang proudly said.

(We extend our gratitude to AFP for conducting this activity here in our barangay. Indeed, this is a great help to our residents who could not afford to pay for the circumcision of their male children, tooth extraction, and others.)

The troopers also regaled the residents with drama, dance numbers and a film showing.

RA 9165 Violator Nabbed in Dinas

By PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul (RPIO9)

Dinas, Zamboanga Del Sur – Police elements of Dinas Police Station arrested a wanted person in Regional Hospital Poblacion Margosatubig Zamboanga Del Sur at 1:30 PM of March 2, 2015. The arrested suspect identified as Rowena M Tecson. Her arrest was made by virtue of warrant of arrest docketed under criminal case no. 15-009 in violation of Section 11, Article ii, R.A. 9165 Issued by Honorable Felix Rodriguez Jr.

Acting Presiding Judge of RTC branch 29 with bail recommended amounting to two hundred thousand pesos (P 200,000.00). Suspect is now temporarily detained at the said police station for proper disposition.

Zambo Sur policemen to join nationwide sympathy walk

By Hirohito D. Cadion [(PNA), RMA/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION/SSC]

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, March 7 (PNA) -– The police force in this province will join the nationwide sympathy walk Sunday to commemorate the 44th Day of Mourning for the fallen 44 Special Action Force (SAF) policemen.

The nationwide sympathy walk will be held Sunday although the last day of the 44th day of Mourning falls on March 9, Monday.

Supt. Glenn Dulawan, local police chief, said the sympathy walk will start from the Plaza Luz in front of City Hall to the main thoroughfares of this city.

Dulawan is also the Philippine National Police Academy Alumni Association (PNPA)-Zamboanga del Sur chapter president.

Dulawan said the walk would end also at the Plaza Luz where a program followed.

He said the walk would be joined by the relatives and friends of the three of the 44 fallen SAF policemen who were natives of this province.

The three slain SAF who are natives of this province are: Senior Insp. John Garry Erana, PNPA-Class 2009; Insp. Rennie Tayrus, PNPA-Class 2011; and Police Officer 3 (PO3) Virgel Villanueva.

Erana and Tayrus were from the nearby town of Dumalinao while Villanueva was from the coastal town of San Pablo.

Dulawan said the sympathy walk will also be joined by students and members of the civil society organizations and non-government organizations.

Eat Bulaga lauds Tabak for supporting ‘Plastic Ni Juan’ project

(FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

The army’s 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division’s support to “Plastic ni Juan project” of GMA7 project received accolade from the host of the popular noontime show, Eat Bulaga.

Tabak troopers led by Lt. Col. Aude Mongao, 1st Civil Military Operations Officer, personally handed on Tuesday over eight tons of empty plastic bottles and containers to the management of Eat Bulaga right in its studio at Broadway Centrum in Quezon City.

Plastic ni Juan project aims to collect plastic wastes to be made into tables and chairs for selected public schools that need them.

Mongao also said the troopers’ participation in the Eat Bulaga program was not primarily for educational purposes but in support of GMA7’s core advocacy, which is to extend assistance to schools, which are in dire need of tables and chairs for their schoolchildren especially those in the remote barangays of the country.

The Eat Bulaga management allocated 25 seats for Tabak officers and members who would come to watch the program’s segment “Juan for All, All for Juan,” where the plastic bottles collected by the troopers from the barangays they had visited would be turned-over.

Earlier, Eat Bulaga’s youngest host and child actress Ryzza Mae Dizon in her program dubbed “Ryzza Mae Show” extolled the 1st Infantry division for donating large volume of empty plastic bottles.

“Maraming salamat po sa inyong mga sundalo na nagdadala ng mga empty plastic bottles dito. Tiyak na nakakatulong ito ng malaki sa mga paaralan na nangangailangan ng mga lamisa at silya,” Dizon explained.

(I am thankful to the troopers for bringing empty plastic bottles here. Certainly this would greatly help the schools in need of tables and mono block chairs.)

Dizon invited Tabak hospital chief Col. Arsenio Belen to be her instant guest and asked him why the troopers were in GMA7.

Belen said “the troopers’ presence was a show of 1st infantry division’s strong support to GMA7’s project, which Tabak commander BGen. Gerardo Barrientos Jr. isvery supportive of.”

TV host Vic Sotto also thanked the division for donating empty plastic bottles during Eat Bulaga’s segment “One for All, All for Juan”.

“Nagpasalamat kami sa 1st Infantry (Tabak) division na galing sa Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur pagdonate nila ng plastic bottles para sa ‘Plastic Ni Juan’ project . Sila po ay kasama natin studio ngayon,” Sotto happily said.

(I thanked the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division from Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur for donating plastic bottles for the “Plastic ni Juan” project and they are joining us in the studio now.)

Man Arrested in Pagadian City

By PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul (RPIO9)

Pagadian City – Operatives of Pagadian City Police Station nabbed a 27-year old man in Barangay Balangasan, Pagadian City at 8:00 AM of March 2, 2015. The arrested man was identified as Jester Dan Merida Y Miranda, 27 and a resident of Barangay Upper Balide, Aurora. His arrest was made by virtue of warrant of arrest for the crime of reckless imprudence resulting to homicide and damage to property under criminal case number 8676 issued by Honorable Presiding Judge Annabelle D. P. Piang Of 12th Judicial Region, 1st Municipal Circuit Trial Court- Parang-Buldon-Matanog-Barira, Province of Maguindanao Issued on February 9, 2015 with bail for his temporary liberty was fixed to two thousand pesos (P 2,000.00).

Suspect was brought and detained at the Pagadian City Police Station for proper disposition.

FEATURE: Sports academy key to quest for gold in sports, says ZamboSur guv

By Claro A. Lanipa (ALT/CAL/PIA-9)

PAGADIAN CITY - In the recently concluded 2015 Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) Meet held in Pagadian City, the Zamboanga del Sur delegation emerged as the over-all champion in the secondary level and second in the elementary level during the four-day competition leading seven other delegations in the region.

Apparently, this is the product of the Provincial Sports Academy created and established by the provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur under the initiative and strong leadership of Governor Antonio H. Cerilles with the primary purpose of helping develop our potential athletes in the countryside.This program is also being supported by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), training athletes in the country for future competitions in the local and international level.

Cerilles observed that at the recent ASEAN games wherein the Philippines got only one gold medal that is in cycling, the winner was not locally bred, but an American, though his parents are Filipinos.

To refresh our memories, Cerilles said, “dating back to the 1950’s, we were either second, third in the ASEAN games among 10 member-nations. We came out champion or runner-up, but sad to say the Philippines has lagged behind in the ASEAN games – we are at 7th place, we are just above Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia, other countries have overtaken the Philippines.

Our country became much more frustrated, when we participated in the Olympic Games and not achieving even a single medal in the competition, so the government created the Philippine Sports Commission with the hope that we will be able to develop sports in the country.

Similarly, during the Western Mindanao Regional Athletic Association (WMRAA) Meet in the past years, Zamboanga del Sur ranks far behind from other provinces and cities in the region with Zamboanga City delegation always emerging as champions.

This is one of the factors that drove the governor to put up a sports academy in the province, to train potential young athletes in the countryside for them to be more competitive.

With the creation of the Provincial Sports Academy during the incumbency of Governor Antonio Cerilles in 2010, Zamboanga del Sur slowly bounced back, came out champion in 2013, runner-up in 2014 and again champion in this year’s ZPRAA Meet.

Governor Cerilles attributes the victories to the establishment of the Provincial Sports Academy. Since cities have their own delegation, our potential athletes from the province would be difficult to train in the municipalities because of the distance. So the good governor decided to put up our own sports academy utilizing the special education fund (SEF), provide the pre-screened potential high school student/athletes free board and lodging, food, uniform, and all the basic necessities they need.

To date, there are 200 student athletes in the academy, undergoing year-round training on different sports events and academics as well. Teachers, trainors, including tutors, sociologist, phsychologist and nutritionist were hired by the provincial government to focus on their training and academic needs.

“We have to prepare them not only physically but academically, because later on if they will succeed, a scholarship will be offered to them and they will not shy-away from the offer,” Governor Cerilles said.

Asked as to his comments on the good performance showed by the athletes in the recently concluded ZPRAA meet, the governor replied, “Iam happy because that is for their own good. To give them a chance to change their lives, because most of them came from very poor families, and second, to keep them away from dangerous drugs or any other vices that will eventually destroy their future.”

This year’s ZPRAA meet, earned for Zamboanga del Sur a total of 82 gold medals, 66 silver medals and 55 bronze medals both in the secondary and elementary level.

Rapist father nabbed in Cebu

By Mars W. Mosqueda Jr.

Argao, Cebu – After months of hiding in this town, a 58-year-old father, who is wanted for three counts of rape, finally fell into the hands of the law Monday night.

Albert Sumampong was arrested by authorities after he allegedly stabbed his younger brother Monday night. It was the younger brother who told the police that Albert is wanted in Zamboanga del Sur.

Argao Police Station chief, Senior Inspector Alejandro Batobalonos, said their counterpart in Zamboanga del Sur was contacted and the latter confirmed that Albert has a pending warrant of arrest for allegedly raping his three daughters.

Albert would have enjoyed his freedom had he not stabbed his younger brother, Dennis, a beautician, following a heated argument over the suspect’s alleged use of illegal drugs.

Dennis, who was hit on the left side of his face, immediately called up the police for assistance and then later squealed that his brother is a wanted man.

Batobalonos was not able to provide details of the alleged three counts of rape against Albert because he was still waiting for the copy of the suspect’s warrant of arrest from Zamboanga del Sur.

Zambo City, Zambo Sur rule ZPRAA 2015

By Hirohito D. Cadion [(PNA), LGI/TPGJR/HDCADION/EBP]

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, March 2 (PNA) -- Zamboanga City and this province emerged as champions in the elementary and secondary levels, respectively, in the just-concluded Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) 2015.

The ZPRAA 2015, which saw action thousands of athletes from the region, was held from Feb. 25-28 in this city.

Dr. Malcolm Garma, DepEd regional director, said Zamboanga City ruled the elementary level and garnered 37 gold, 31 silver, and 32 bronze medals.

Garma said Zamboanga City is followed second by the athletic delegation of this province with 27 gold, 27 silver, and 30 bronze medals while Dipolog City ranked third with 24 gold, 21 silver, and 13 bronze medals.

Garma said the standing of the other athletic delegates to the ZPRAA 2015 are as follows: fourth, Pagadian City, 20 gold, 22 silver, and 9 bronze medals; fifth, Zamboanga del Norte, 10 gold, 13 silver, and 33 bronze medals; sixth, Zamboanga Sibugay, 10 gold, 10 silver, and 19 bronze medals; seventh, Isabela City, eight gold, eight silver, and 16 bronze medals; and, eighth, Dapitan City, two gold, nine silver, and eight bronze.

He said this province emerged as the champion in the secondary level garnering 55 gold, 39 silver and 25 bronze medals.

He said Zamboanga City followed this province as second in the secondary level with 35 gold, 35 silver, and 32 bronze medals and followed third by Dipolog City with 16 gold, 19 silver and 30 bronze medals.

He said the standing of the other athletic delegates are the following: fourth, Pagadian City, 10 gold, eight silver, and 26 bronze medals; fifth, Zamboana del Norte, seven gold, 13 silver, and 22 bronze medals; sixth, Dapitan City, six gold, nine silver, and 11 bronze medals; seventh, Zamboanga Sibugay, five gold, five silver, and 16 bronze medals; and, eight, Isabela City, one gold, seven silver, and eight bronze medals.

Meanwhile, Garma said special awards were also given to three athletic delegations.

Garma said these are: Zamboanga City, most disciplined; Isabela City, most organized; and, Zamboanga Sibugay, the cleanest and eco-environment friendly delegation.

Zamboanga exporters urged to take advantage of EU-GSP+

By Louella D. Desiderio (The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines - Exporters and businesses in the Zamboanga Peninsula are making preparations to take advantage of the European Union’s Generalized System of Preferences Plus (EU-GSP+).

According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), a Doing Business with the EU using the GSP+ Information session was recently conducted in Zamboanga City to inform exporters and businesses there of the benefits of the trade preference scheme.

“We’ve already had initial discussions with businesses who plan to expand their operations in the region. The EU GSP+ is a developmental tool which helps the country generate additional revenue and new jobs critical to economic growth,” said Trade Assistant Secretary Ceferino Rodolfo.

The EU GSP+ is a scheme allowing beneficiary countries to export 6,274 products to any of the 28 members of the bloc at zero tariff for a period of 10 years.

The Philippines, which secured EU GSP+ status in December, is the only beneficiary country of the scheme in Southeast Asia.

Among the major products of Region 9 which stand to gain the most from the EU GSP+ are marine and coconut products.

Fishery products which were previously slapped with as much as 24 percent tariff to the EU, may now enter the trade bloc at zero duty under the scheme.

Canned tuna and sardines firm Permex Producer and Exporter Inc. said during the event that it intends to take advantage of the EU GSP+.

“The ball is on our side. It’s there – more than 6,200 products that we can export to EU at zero tariff. It is up to us to deliver and to take that opportunity,” Permex Producer and Exporter Inc. president Edgar Lim said.

Other products that may avail of duty free access to EU include processed fruit, prepared food, animal and vegetable fats and oils, textiles, garments, headwear, footwear, furniture, umbrellas, and chemicals.

While exporters in the Zamboanga Peninsula are interested to avail of the EU GSP+, they noted that government support would be needed to facilitate their entry to the EU market.

In particular, the private sector needs an international port in Zamboanga

so they will not have to ship their products to the ports of Manila, Davao or Cagayan de Oro which results in “double handling” or entailing additional costs.

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