Zamboanga del Sur News June 2015

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Province of Zamboanga del Sur - Archived News of Zamboanga del Sur
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Seal of Zamboanga del Sur Province
Interactive Google Satellite Map of Zamboanga del Sur
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Zamboanga del Sur Map Locator
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Municipalities within Zamboanga del Sur
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Provincial Capitol of Zamboanga del Sur
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Provincial Capitol of Zamboanga del Sur, Santo Niño, Pagadian city

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

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Lapuyan Falls: The favorite haunt of the fair Subanen maidens of Sitio Baga and all its neighboring areas, usual meeting place with many a young country swain in some secluded cavern beneath the rocky forest lane.
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Lakewood, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines
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Village of Pedagan

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.
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Lintugop, Aurora
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Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur
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Provincial human resource management office of santo niño pagadian city
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Civil Service Commision office in santo niño pagadian city

Japan weather agency monitors 3 LPAs east of PH

By Rommel Rio (News 5)

MANILA - The Japan Meteorological Agency has monitored three low pressure areas (LPAs) over the Pacific Ocean east of the Philippines -- two of which are expected to develop into tropical depressions by Wednesday.

The Tokyo-based weather bureau said the two LPAs outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) will remain almost stationary until they intensify into tropical cyclones within 48 hours.

Meanwhile, the other LPA, which is inside the PAR, was forecast to gradually move northward to the east of Visayas but will remain an LPA until midweek.

News 5 Metra Weatherscape showed that the LPA inside the PAR may intensify the southwest monsoon, which will bring more rain over Visayas and Mindanao.

Landslide and flash flood alert

On Monday morning, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration warned residents in Mindanao against possible landslides and flash floods due to rain brought by the inter-tropical convergence zone (ITCZ), which is a band of clouds formed through the merging of winds from the northern and southern hemispheres.

It also issued an advisory for "moderate to occasionally heavy" rain affecting Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Zamboanga Peninsula.

"All are advised to take precautionary measures on possible occurrence of flash floods and landslides and gusty winds," Pagasa said.

3 Drug Suspects Arrested in Three Separate Police Operation

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

Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur - An 18-year old man was arrested after he was caught in the act selling an illegal drug during buy-bust operation conducted by Pagadian City Police Station at the Boulevard in Purok Pagaypay-B, Barangay Kawit, Pagadian City at about 9:15 PM of June 26, 2015. Nabbed was Jeremiah Chavez Y Flores, aka “Jake”, 18 years old, laborer and a resident of Barangay Kawit, Pagadian City.

Suspect was caught in act selling one small size heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance of suspected shabu to the poseur- buyer. During body search of the suspect, the police was able to recovered from the suspect one piece small orange container, two (2) pieces of small size heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance of suspected shabu, three (3) pieces folded strip of aluminum foils and two hundred pesos worth of marked money consisting of two (2) pieces of fifty peso bills and one (1) piece one hundred peso bill. The suspect is now temporary detained at the said police station for proper disposition.

Polanco, Zamboanga del Norte - A 25-year old man was arrested during buy bust operation and serving of search warrant carried out by police operatives of Polanco MPS and PDEA at Block 17, Lot 4, Victoria Hills Subdivision, Poblacion, North, Polanco, Zamboanga Del Norte at about 5:00 PM of June 26, 2015. Arrested was Joseph Keith Dapat Y Dagpin, 25 years old, married, a resident of Purok Mangga, Silawe, Polanco. Confiscated from his possession and control were the following: two (2) transparent sachets containing white crystalline granules believed to be shabu and two (2) pieces P500.00 peso bill, said person is listed under drug watch list personality. The inventory was witness by Barangay Councilor, Mr. Argie T. Quimno from the Media (iTV Prime), and Mr. Joselito C. Garrucho – DOJ Representative. After the said buy bust operation, the operating team immediately proceeded to the house occupied by Joseph Keith Dapat y Dagpin and Job Mark D. Dapat also situated at the above mentioned place to serve the Search Warrant with No. 2-2015 duly signed and issued by Hon. Judge Deborah P. Garcia-Nazario of MTC-Polanco, dated June 18, 2015 and immediately conducted orderly search thereat. Recovered and confiscated from the room of the accused were the following: one (1) unit of Cal. 38 Revolver loaded with 5 live ammunitions, three (3) pieces of Cal. 38 live ammunitions, ₱4,758.50 cash money in different denomination, two (2) pieces 1 US Dollar bill, one (1) roll of aluminum foil, ten (10) pieces assorted disposable lighters, four (4) pieces of improvised flame reducer, thirteen (13) pieces of cut aluminum foil, one (1) piece of disposable lighter color blue with attached flame reducer, one (1) box of FUEGO match, one (1) piece stainless scissor, one (1) piece of black Nathaniel Wallet, one (1) unit Nokia White-Gray with Sim Card and Battery, one (1) piece Zippo Lighter, two (2) pieces of transparent small sachet containing white crystalline granules believed to be shabu, one (1) small container with brown tablet inside the toothpick container, one (1) small notebook with Hans Rock Shock marking, and one (1) Black – Gray sling bag marked Samsonite. Arrested person was properly informed of his rights and now detained at Polanco MPS proper disposition. Appropriate charges now prepared by elements of Polanco MPS.

Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte - The Anti-illegal Drugs Operatives of Dipolog City Police Station led by Police Superintendent Ranie Planilla Hachuela conducted a drug buy bust operation at Katipunan St., Miputak, Dipolog City at about 10:00 o’clock in the evening of June 26, 2015. This led to the arrest of Signar Genefrid Y Hugo, 40 yrs old, single, a resident of Padre Ramon Extension, Estaka, Dipolog City. Said person was included in the Watch List of personalities involved in illegal drug activities in Dipolog City. Confiscated from his possession and control were the following: Two (2) pcs medium size transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline granules believed to be shabu, One (1) pc small size transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline granules believed to be shabu as buy bust evidence, One (1) unit cellular phone color black with simcard, One (1) pc small sling bag color black served as container of shabu, One (1) pc One Hundred Peso (P100.00, One (1) pc One Hundred Peso (P100.00) and One (1) pc Fifty Peso (P50.00). The suspect was informed of his constitutional rights as arrested person. Proper documentation and markings was done at said place and was witnessed by Mrs. Merlinda Tenorio of the Dept. of Justice, Ms. May Turno from the Media and Hon. Noe Divinagrasia - Barangay Official of Barangay Miputak, Dipolog City. Subject suspect was brought to ZANORTE Medical Center for medical examination while the confiscated items/evidences were deposited to the PNP Crime Laboratory, Minaog, Dipolog City for court exhibit. Suspect temporary detained at Dipolog City Police Station detention cell for proper disposition.

DSWD enjoins public to become watchdogs

(Daily Zamboanga Times)

As the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) embarks on the identification of poor households through the second round of assessment, the agency enjoins the participation of the public by helping in monitoring and ensuring that the assessment is conducted based on the prescribed protocols and processes.

The DSWD through the Listahanan project had just launched the Listahanan at Work Photo Contest that aims to engage the public by promoting transparency on the process of identifying poor households in the region.

“We are encouraging everyone to join this activity as this will help us promote the very essence of this assessment –that is to objectively identify who and where the poor are in the country,” Deputy Regional Program Management Office –Listahanan, Pilar F. Francisco, said in a statement.

The theme of the said competition is “Listahanan at work: identifying families in need of social protection.”

Said photo contest is open to all photography enthusiasts aged 16 to 25 years old. Interested participants must submit at least three (3) sample photos together with an accomplished application form which can be downloaded at www.fo9.dswd.gov.ph or secure copy from the Social Marketing Unit of the DSWD Field Office 9.

All DSWD employees, however, are not qualified to join the competition.

Official participants will be gathered for a 1-day orientation on the Listahanan second round of household assessment before they will be deployed to the field to take photos of the actual assessment.

First prize, second prize and third prize winners will receive P10,000.00, P7,000.00 and P5,000.00 respectively. Plaques and consolation prizes will also be given.

Regional first place winner will be invited to attend the National Launching of the Listahanan 2 Database of Poor families.

Deadline of submission of application is on July 06, 2015.

Listahanan is the DSWD information management system that identifies who and where the poor are. It is a comprehensive socio-economic database of poor households as basis for determining beneficiaries of different social protection programs and services.

Local Communist Movement Member Arrested for Murder; 2 Others Nabbed

By Police Inspector Dahlan T. Samuddin with report from PO2 Radzben S. Jul (RPIO9)

Mahayag, Zamboanga Del Sur – Elements of Regional Intelligence Unit 9, Provincial Intelligence Branch ZSPPO led by Police Superintendent Modhin Pantaran and Mahayag MPS led by Police Chief Inspector Homer Dumalag, conducted a manhunt operation in Purok 1, Barangay Pugwan, this municipality at about 9:30 am of June 23, 2015.

This resulted in the arrest of Roger Najini, resident of said place. Subject person was apprehended by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Presiding Judge Reymar L. Lacaya, 9th Judicial Region, Branch 21, Sindangan, Zamboanga Del Norte, dated January 10, 2014, docketed under Criminal Case Number S-4888 for murder. Further investigation disclosed that said wanted person was positively identified as a Local Communist Movement (LCM) member under Natarang Guirella NG Kara, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC). Arrested LCM member is currently under PNP custody while awaiting court disposition.

Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay – Elements of Detective Management Unit (DMU) under PIDMD ZSBPPO, PPSC Intelligence operatives and Kabasalan MPS, conducted a manhunt operation in Brgy. Poblacion at about 6:04 in the morning of June 23, 2015. This resulted in the arrest of Joel A. Recaido, by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Presiding Judge Anthony D. Isaw of RTC Branch 24, 9th Judicial Region, Ipil, for violation of sec. 3 (c) of R.A. 9287 filed under Criminal Case No. I-5701 with recommended bail bond of Php 100,000.00. Suspect is now under the custody of Kabasalan MPS for proper disposition.

Zamboanga City - Members of Zamboanga City Police Station 7 served a warant issued by Judge Reynerio G. Estacio dated May 3, 2011 at the residence of Bryan Bonifacio y Lacastesantos in Lantawan, Busay, Brgy. Pasonanca at about 9:07 AM of June 24, 2015. This is by virtue of WOA docketed under Criminal Case # 25200 for Homicide issued by Judge Reynerio G. Estacio of RTC Branch 14, 9th Judicial Region. Said subject is now under the custody of the said police station.

Tampilisan No. 2 Most Wanted, 3 Others Netted

By Police Inspector Dahlan T. Samuddin with report from PO2 Radzben S. Jul (RPIO9)

Zamboanga Del Sur - Elements of Tampilisan MPS led by Police Senior Inspector Roldan C. Molate and personnel of Dimataling MPS led by Police Inspector Renante Benitez, conducted a joint manhunt operation in Sitio Codilo, Barangay Poblacion, Dimataling town at about 1:00 PM of June 21, 2015.

This resulted in the arrest of the number 2 Most Wanted person of Tampilisan MPS identified as Allan Noblesa Alcazar, 39, resident of Farmington Tampilisan, Zamboanga Del Norte. This is by virtue of warrant of arrest for Rape in relation to RA 7610 issued by Judge Oscar D. Tomarong of RTC, 9th Judicial Region, Branch 28, Liloy dated February 10, 2015 docketed under Criminal Case No. L-002408 without bail recommended. Arrested person is detained at Tampilisan MPS for proper disposition.

Zamboanga City – Detective Management Unit members of Zamboanga City Police Station 3 conducted an operation against wanted person in Barangay Bolong at about 6:00 PM of June 21, 2015. This resulted in the arrest of Jayson Dionisio y Montebon, resident of Sitio Baluno, Barangay Bunguiao, by virtue of warrant of arrest for violation of Sec 5 (a) in relation to Section 6 (a) of R.A. 9262 docketed under Criminal Case No. 29228 issued by Judge Peter Eisma of RTC Branch 15, this city, dated June 2, 2015, with a recommended bail bond of Php 12,000.00. Suspect is presently detained at said police station.

RT Lim, Zamboanga Sibugay - Tracker team under Provincial Investigation and Detective Management Branch of Zamboanga Sibugay PPO and intelligence operatives of Provincial Public Safety Company and RT Lim MPS conducted a manhunt operation in Barangay Katipunan about 2:40 PM of June 21, 2015. This resulted in the arrest of Fernando Cainglit, 47, by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Presiding Judge Anthony D. Isaw of RTC Branch 24, 9th Judicial Region, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, for Rape filed under Criminal Case No. I-5464 with no bail bond recommended. Suspect is now under the custody of RT Lim MPS for proper disposition.

Zamboanga Sibugay - Elements of Provincial Intelligence Branch, Aurora MPS, and Ipil MPS conducted a manhunt operation in Purok Kawayan, Barangay Tiayon, Ipil municipality at about 6:00 PM of June 21, 2015. This resulted in the apprehension of Ronnie Culobio Paul, 42, resident of aforementioned place, by virtue of warrant of arrest for murder docketed under Criminal Case No. 07-10,527 and frustrated homicide filed under Criminal Case No. 11-10,813 issued by Presiding Judge Ernesto MVE Laurel. Suspect is now under the custody of Ipil MPS for proper disposition.

SSS extends AlkanSSSya to inmates at city jail

By Claro A. Lanipa (FPG/CAL/PIA-9/Zamboanga del Sur)

PAGADIAN CITY, June 25 (PIA) – The Social Security System (SSS) Pagadian City Branch in partnership with the Bureau of Jail and Management Protection (BJMP) has launched recently the AlkanSSSya sa Kulungan Program at the City Jail at Lenienza this city.

In his welcome message during the program launch, City Jail Warden Nathaniel Aljas said “the AlkannSSSya sa Kulungan Program of SSS is one way of extending its premium benefit services down to grassroot level including the detainees.”

“Initially, 36 detainees have voluntarily enrolled in the program, but there are still more who have expressed their interest to avail of the social security program of SSS,” Aljas added.

He also encouraged the inmates to start with “barya-barya” until such time they are able to save the minimum monthly contribution of P330.

“Spent wisely and save regularly,” Aljas quoted successful businessman Mike Seles as saying.

“No one is keeping you from enjoying the fruits of your labor, but be sure at the end of the day you still have much to keep,” Aljas stressed.

On the other hand, SSS Pagadian City branch head James Buckly said“the national government has not forgotten you. In fact, Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas and our President Emilio De Quiros recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) so that you will also be covered by all the benefits SSS has to offer.”

Buckly encouraged other inmates who are not yet member of SSS to grab the opportunity. You don’t have to go to our office to enrol, SSS is now at your doorstep to accept and process your registration.

For the smooth implementation of the program a MOA was signed between the SSS Branch Head James Buckly and Jail Warden Aljas, witnessed by Sheila Marie Abad, SSS assistant branch head, SJO4 Leonilo Sumalinog and SJO1 Robert Caniedo.

This was followed by the ceremonial turnover of the AlkanSSSya box by BH James Buckly to Aljas.

A well secured AlkanSSSya slots were established in the jail where the registered members can drop their coins and a jail officer is being assigned daily to record the amount drop by the member.

The AlkanSSSYA program has for its theme, “Barya-Barya sa AlkanSSSya, Kinabukasan ay Sigurado Na.”

DOLE releases 4-M livelihood assistance to LGUs

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

PAGADIAN CITY, June 24 (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Office distributed on Thursday livelihood assistance checks worth more than P4 million to local government units (LGUs) and an entrepreneur in the city during the job and livelihood fair at City Commercial Center (C3) here.

DOLE-9 Regional Director Sisinio Cano said activity is an intervention of the agency in the observance of Kalayaan 2015 and the 46th Founding Anniversary of the city, respectively.

The checks were personally distributed by Director Cano to the six LGU-recipients, namely, Ramon Magsaysay for Kabuhayan Starter Kits worth P2,4000; Lakewood - Kabuhayan Starter Kits worth P500,000; Mahayag -Dressmaking worth P500,000; Aurora-Kabuhayan Starter Kits worth P304,200; Kumalarang - Kabuhayan Starter Kits worth P205,000; and Canillo Blacksmith Shop – P9,000.

Kabuhayan Starter Kits consists of package of services that will provide beneficiaries - the informal sector workers and their families - booth skills training and the necessary tools to enable them quickly start livelihood activities and become self-employed.

Cano was assisted by Pagadian City Mayor Romeo Pulmones and DOLE –Zamboanga del Sur chief Camilo Encila Jr. in the distribution of said kits.

Cano expressed optimism that with the government’s livelihood assistance, the beneficiaries would improve their living condition and at the same time, hone their skills.

Cano said the DOLE has provided two job search kiosks for Zamboanga del Sur, one for Pagadian which was already turned-over during the event, and the other one for the municipality of Dumingag.

The job search kiosk is online jobs database where job applicants can easily search for jobs.

“With the job search kiosk, anytime of the day, the job seekers can register and browse available jobs online,” Cano explained.

Cano said “as a joint project between DOLE and the LGUs, the latter will provide internet connection to make the kiosk operational.

Cano disclosed further that for Zamboanga Peninsula, a total of 14 job search kiosks were distributed to the LGUs. - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371435035493/dole-releases-4-m-livelihood-assistance-to-lgus#sthash.09G31OJg.dpuf

MGB, NCIP stop mining in IPs ancestral domain

By Bong Garcia

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) issued a cease and desist order (CDO) stopping mining operations within the ancestral domain areas of the indigenous peoples (IP) in Zamboanga del Sur.

Timuay Langhap Rio Olimpio Lingating, head of the Pikumpungan Subanen Gataw Tebed Inc. (PSGT), said that covered by the joint CDO are the mining operations in the villages of Deborok and Lourdes, Pagadian City; Mati, Tigbao; and Langapod and Noboran in Labangan.

The PSGT is a holder of a certificate of ancestral domain title (CADT) and was the one that filed a complaint of unabated intrusion by miners in their ancestral domain.

The joint CDO dated June 10 was signed by MGB Acting Regional Director Alfredo Relampagos and NCIP Regional Director Woy Lim Wong.

The complaint filed by Lingating's group was coursed through MGB Director Leo Jasareno, who in turn ordered the MGB regional office to conduct an investigation.

Relampagos and Wong said the mining operations within the IPs ancestral domain are illegal and violate the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act and the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 since there was no Free and Prior Informed Consent given by the IP-CADT holders.

The Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Mineral Regulatory Board did not also issue a permit to any individual to conduct mining operations within the ancestral domain of the IPs.

Lingating has thanked the MGB and NCIP for putting a stop on all mining operations within their ancestral domain areas in Zamboanga del Sur.

DTI-9 continues MSMEs dev’t , promotion via SME Caravan

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

The Department of Trade and Industry-9, in partnership with the different member-agencies of the ZAMPEN SME Core Group, continues its mandate of developing and promoting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the region thru the SME Roving Academy (SMERA), or simply SME Caravan, from July 2-11.

DTI-9 Regional Director Sitti Amina M. Jain said this year’s caravan is different from the previous ones as it will now be held in the emerging growth centers in the provinces rather than in the cities.

“For this year’s SME caravan, we want to reach more MSMEs in the rural areas. For the longest time, we are conducting this in the capital cities or areas in the region. This time though we want to further develop our MSMEs based in the emerging growth centers. We want our presence to be felt in rural areas where our services are all the more needed”, Dir. Jain said.

The caravan will kick-off in Ayala, Zamboanga City on July 2-3, after which, the group will proceed to Liloy for the Zamboanga del Norte leg on July 6-7. Next stop will be in Molave, Zamboanga del Sur on July 8-9; and finally, in Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay on July 10-11.

Dir. Jain said MSMEs should take advantage of the caravan as DTI has prepared trainings that would help in the development of their business.

“We are encouraging our MSMEs to participate in the caravan. We have identified various trainings and seminars that will be very beneficial in their development. Best of all, our trainings are for free. We urge them to contact the nearest DTI offices in their area for their attendance,” she said.

The trainings and seminars include entrepreneurship trainings, financial management training, product pricing and costing, financing forum, and greening of value chain.

Aside from the trainings, there will also be one-on-one consultations with the MSMEs, and presentation of programs by the different SME Core members in support to MSME development and promotion.

There will also be product development during the caravan where MSMEs can get assistance in the packaging of their products to make it market-ready.

“We have invited designers from the Design Center of the Philippines to help our MSMEs in packaging their products to make it more competitive in the market, thus, we encourage our MSMEs to bring with them raw materials abundant in their area so that designers can fashion these into new or improved product ready for market”, Jain added.

Gay teacher in sexual abuse case arrested

By Dan Toribio Jr.

A volunteer teacher, who went missing after he was charged of molesting several male elementary pupils in Zamboanga City, was arrested in Barangay Poblacion, Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur last Wednesday night.

Jhonny Pacinio Piscos, 23, was nabbed on the strength of a warrant issued by Judge Peter V. Eisma, presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court 9th Judicial Region Branch 15, for violation of Section 10 in relation to Section 3 of RA 7610 with case numbers 30039 to 30040.

The court has recommended P80,000 each of his cases for his temporary liberty.

Piscos was the subject of a complaint filed by parents of several pupils of Southcom Elementary School sexually molestation for allleged sexual molestation last October.

The complainants said the molestations took place in different occasions in the afternoon after classes.

However, only two of the complaints prospered while the others remain pending.’

Piscos has denied the accusations and claimed that some parents were only out to destroying his name.

Pedro Melchor Natividad, schools division superintendent, had said the complaints have been investigated last October 21.

Piscos, according to Natividad, had also taught at the Ateneo de Zamboanga, Universidad de Zamboanga and Baliwasan Elementary School before teaching at the Southcom Elementary School.

A parent told the police she found out about her son’s ordeal when the boy’s friends started talking about it.

At least nine pupils – the oldest being 12 – had claimed having been sexually molested by Piscos atthe Southcom Elementary School.

The children narrated told investigators that Piscos would make them clean the classroom and then bathe them one at a time. He would then allegedly molest them.

Piscos went into hiding after the case was filed against him.


2 most wanted persons fall

By Bong Garcia

POLICE operatives arrested two of the most wanted persons in separate operations conducted recently in Zamboanga Peninsula, an official announced Saturday.

Inspector Dahlan Samuddin, Police Regional Office (PRO) Zamboanga Peninsula information officer, identified the most wanted persons as Allan Dalangin and Edgar Caruana.

Samuddin said Dalangin is the number two most wanted person in the municipality of Josefina, Zamboanga del Sur, while Caruana is the number seven most wanted person in Tambulig of the same province.

Samuddin said Dalangin, who is facing murder charges, was arrested around 9 a.m. Friday in the village of Barcelona, Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte.

He said Caruana, who is facing murder and frustrated murder cases, was arrested around 3 p.m. Friday in the village of Abaga, Lala, Lanao Del Norte.

Ex-vice guv convicted of graft

(KGL)

A FORMER vice governor of Zamboanga del Sur was convicted by the Sandiganbayan of graft for illegal disbursement of government funds.

According to a statement published on the Office of the Ombudsman's website, convicted was former Zamboanga del Sur vice governor Tirsendo Poloyapoy, who was found guilty for violating Section 3e of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

Poloyapoy illegally disbursed P3.7 million in financial assistance to the Soya Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative in 2001, the Ombudsman said.

The anti-graft court also convicted Mario Octavio Arsenal, president of SFMPC, for conspiring with Poloyapoy in the illegal fund disbursement.

The Office of the Ombudsman prosecutors "were able to prove that the requirements for the financial grant were not fully complied with since SFMPC was not duly registered with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) as required in COA Circular 96-003" and "that the cooperative registered with the CDA is not SFMPC but the Tabina Soya Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative."

The financial assistance was also said to have been granted despite the "non-submission of the project statement, including identification of farmer-beneficiaries, standards for project implementation, project cost estimates and systems and monitoring and inspection requirements."

"The Sandiganbayan ruled that Poloyapoy caused undue injury to the government when he unlawfully disbursed funds to SFMPC despite his knowledge that the cooperative had no legal personality," the statement read.

Poloyapoy and Arsenal were sentenced to imprisonment, ranging from six years and one month to eight years, and also meted out the "accessory penalty of perpetual disqualification from public office."

They were also ordered for them to pay the government in the amount of P3.7 million.

In the meantime, the cases against co-accused Provincial Accountant Ma. Eden Tagayuna, Agricultural Technicians Roderick Pascual and Osmundo Lumapas were archived pending their arrest.

Gunmen abduct lending collector, kill another

By Alfred Dalizon With Zaida delos Reyes-Palanca

GUNMEN abducted a 24-year-old lending collector in Zamboanga del Sur after robbing her before shooting two men and killing one of them while escaping Wednesday night.

A report to Philippine National Police officer-in-charge Deputy Director General Leonardo A. Espina said the five heavily-armed suspects held up Kathy Grace Sarabia inside her residence in Bgy. San Jose, Imelda, Zamboanga del Sur, at 8 p.m.

After taking her valuables, the gunmen forced Sarabia to drive for them using her Honda CRV. Thirty minutes later, policemen manning a checkpoint in Bgy. Canakan, Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay spotted the car and tried to stop it.

However, the suspects ordered Sarabia to step on the gas, prompting officers to give chase. Policemen later bumped the vehicle from behind causing it to stop.

The suspects jumped off the vehicle while firing their guns and were able to escape under cover of darkness.

The officers recovered the victim unharmed.

PRO9 director Chief Supt. Edgar Basbas said that shortly after, unidentified men believed to be the fleeing suspects shot Danny Gulmatico, 50, and Christian Cortel, 19, at the fishpond area in Sitio Punawan, Bgy. Sta. Cruz, also in Kabasalan.

Gulmatico died on the spot due to multiple gunshot wounds while Cortel was wounded and taken to a local hospital.

Basbas said a massive hunt for the suspects is still underway.

ZSPPO implements PGS

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

PAGADIAN CITY, June 17 (PIA) – The Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office (ZSPPO) recently adopted the Performance Governance System (PGS) as a strategy to achieve its vision of becoming a highly capable, effective and credible police service by 2030.

In his message during the oath-taking of the officers and members of the ZSPPO Provincial Advisory Council held here recently, Superintendent James Turbela, deputy provincial director for administration said the PGS, otherwise known as the “PNP Transformation Roadmap 2030,” envisions that “the PNP will become a highly capable, effective and credible police service in partnership with a responsive community for the attainment of a safer place to live, work, and do business.”

With the new program, Turbela said, the ZSPPO is mandated to pass the four stages, namely: initiation, compliance, proficiency, and institutionalization stage.

“The ZSPPO has passed the first stage—the initiation stage - and is now coping to pass the other three stages,” Turbela announced.

The initiation stage is the formation of technical working group and provincial advisory council, formulation of strategy map and governance scorecards.

“The command is now on its second stage, the compliance stage,” Turbela disclosed adding, ”what we are doing now is accomplishing the compliance stage which is the organization and formalization of PAC.”

Meanwhile, Inspector Joel Galeriana, chief of Dashboard Management and Alignment Police Commission Office said the PGS is a participatory process wherein every individual or objectives must be accomplished. “It is a program of governance that every member of the Philippine National Police (PNP) must get involved,” he added.

Galeriana said the PGS is a new program to them since they are not used to it.

“Before a PNP member used to work for his own benefit but with the PGS, we work as an institution to achieve our goals and objectives,” Galeriana added.

Turbela expressed optimism that the command will successfully complete the four stages with the help of PAC members and other stakeholders adding that a validation team from PNP central office is slated to visit the command on July to validate the performance of ZSPPO.

TABAK lauds 1st Civil-Military Operations’ accomplishments

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

LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur, June 16 (PIA) –The 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division lauded the 1st Civil-Military Operations (MAHIGALAON) battalion for its outstanding accomplishments in the past year.

Tabak assistant division commander for operations BGen. Glenn Macasero, in his message during the 4th Anniversary celebration of the unit recently at at Camp Major Cesar Sang-an, Pulacan here said the 1st Infantry (Tabak) division under the sterling leadership of BGen. Gerardo F. Barrientos, Jr. was impressed with the performance of the unit.

Macasero said the 1St CMO battalion under the leadership of Lt.Col. Aude Mongao has performed well and made significant contributions to our country.

Macasero cited 1CMO battalion’s support to the “Plastic ni Juan” project of GMA-7’s noon-time variety show where hundreds of kilos of empty plastic containers/bottles were turned-over to the management of the show in Quezon City on March 3 and May 22, respectively; the distribution of pencil cases to school children in selected public schools in Zamboanga Peninsula ; distribution of relief goods to fire victims in barangay San Pedro, coordination with the local officials, national government agencies, and other stakeholders.

Macasero said the 1CMO is the instrument which encouraged stakeholders to cooperate and actively support the peace and security efforts especially the implementation of the AFP Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan” campaign.

“Maliban na sila ang humarap sa mga kalaban—ang Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), kinukumbinsi po nila ito na itigil na ang kanilang armadong pakikibaka upang makamit natin ang inaasam na kapayapaan,” Macasero explained.

(Aside from the fact that they face the enemies—the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army (CPPA-NPA), they convinced them to stop their armed struggle to attain our much desired peace).

“They also helped facilitate dialogue and settlement of conflicts (rido) among Muslim brothers to foster peace,” Macasero added.

Meanwhile, he encouraged the officers and men of the unit to perform better in the upcoming years and hope that their good works will inspire them to work even harder to achieve their goal in making our country peaceful.

Pagadian City fetes 117th Araw ng Kalayaan

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

PAGADIAN CITY, June 15, (PIA) – The entire officialdom of the city government led by Mayor Romeo P. Pulmones, together with government line agencies, civic organizations, people’s and non-government organizations, men in uniform, gathered on Friday, June 12, 2015 to celebrate the 117th Araw ng Kalayaan at Rizal’s monument, city hall complex.

“On this 117th anniversary of our independence, may we truly learn the values of our heroes and use them for the well-being of our nation in the context of this year’s theme, Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng Bayan,” Mayor Pulmones said in his welcome message.

He said,“we are Filipinos, in our blood runs the immortal seed of our heroes that flowed out in centuries through deeds of courage.”

“It is the same seed that blossomed in the heart of Dr.Jose Rizal, and in that morning in Bagumbayan when shots put to an end to all that was mortal of him and made his spirit immortal,” the chief executive continued.

The Filipinos established the first Republic in Asia and initiated the People Power Revolution paving the way for democracy in our country and also triggered similar revolutions in some other countries in Eastern Europe, according to Pulmones.

“We cannot afford to lose our freedom again, we have to protect it, aspire and work for economic and other reforms to attain freedom, Pulmones said.

“Let us therefore pause and resolve to pay the price of eternal vigilance to protect our hard-won liberty,” Pulmones urged.

Meanwhile, Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles said, “I hope and pray to God that we attain honest to goodness independence, especially independence from poverty.”

“Our heroes who have fought and sacrificed their lives in all the wars,all of them believe that democracy should be restored and that they believe that there should be peace and stability in the country,” Cerilles added.

“We should always think as Filipinos, it is us who can strengthen democracy through our belief in our government. We are Filipinos, it is incumbent on us to show to the world what kind of nationalism we have and we should have,” the governor challenged the audience.

At the start of the program, a floral offering and simultaneous singing of Pilipinas Kong Mahal was offered followed by a 21-gun salute by 1st Infantry Tabak troopers, Philippine Army.

Gunmen kill barangay official

By Bong Garcia

UNIDENTIFIED gunmen riding tandem in a motorcycle shot and killed a village official in Pagadian City, the police reported Sunday.

Inspector Dahlan Samuddin, Police Regional Office (PRO) Zamboanga Peninsula information officer, disclosed the incident took place around 5:15 a.m. Saturday in village of Kawit, Pagadian City.

Samuddin identified the victim as Sangcadra Dimasar, the village chief of Kawit, Pagadian City. The victim died on the spot.

Samuddin said the victim was on his way for an early morning jogging at Purok Bakhaw B in the village of Kawit when the two men riding tandem in a motorcycle repeatedly shot him.

Empty shells for M-16 Armalite rifle and caliber .45 pistol were recovered from the crime scene.

All possible motives are being looked into aimed to identify the suspects, according to Samuddin.

Zambo City extends financial aid to Pagadian City fire victims

(PNA), RMA/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY, June 13 (PNA) – The city government is extending Php 200,000 financial aid to the thousands of fire victims in Pagadian City.

Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar made the announcement citing the funds will be taken from this city’s calamity fund as authorized by the city council through a resolution.

A total of 1,500 houses mostly made of light materials and semi-concrete structures were razed in a four-hour fire that displaced more than 2,000 families.

The fire, which started in one of the houses in Barangay Santiago, fanned out towards the adjacent barangay of San Pedro in Pagadian city.

Salazar said the financial assistance manifest the city government “is able to reach out to our neighbors even if we are in crisis.”

A group of city government officials are set to handover the financial assistance to the fire victims through the local government of Pagadian City.

Pagadian City holds simple Independence Day celebration

(PNA), FFC/TPGJR/HDC

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, June 12 (PNA) -– The city and provincial governments jointly celebrated the 117th Independence Day in a simple but fitting ceremonies at the Rizal Park here.

Mayor Romeo Pulmones and Gov. Antonio Cerilles led the local and national government employees in the wreath-laying at the foot of Rizal monument that kick-off the Independence Day celebration in this city.

Among those who joined the celebration are Senior Supt. Sofronio Ecaldre, provincial police director; Brig. Gen. Glen Macasero, representing the Army’s First Infantry Division; Civic Society Organizations; Non-Government Organizations; Knights of Rizal; and the Free and Accepted Masons.

“On this 117th anniversary of our independence, may we truly learn the values of our heroes and used them for the well-being of our nation in the context of this year’s theme,” Pulmones said.

This year’s Independence Day celebration is anchored on the theme “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot Kamay na ng Bayan.”

“I hope and pray to God that we will have real independence, especially the independence from poverty and I hope that peace and stability will come not only in Zamboanga del Sur but in the entire country,” Cerilles said.

Mindanao to experience heavy rain on Thursday due to ITCZ - Pagasa

By Rommel Rio (News 5, InterAksyon.com)

MANILA - The state weather bureau on Thursday warned residents in some parts of Mindanao against heavy rain due to thunderstorms caused by the inter-tropical convergence zone (ITCZ).

At 5:50 a.m., the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said a thunderstorm affecting portions of Misamis Occidental, Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Zamboanga City, and Zamboanga del Norte--particularly Dipolog, Dakak, and Katipunan--may persist for an hour or two.

"All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, strong wind, lightning, and possible flashflood. Keep monitoring for updates," Pagasa said.

Pagasa said in its 5 a.m. forecast that ARMM, Davao Region, SOCCSKSARGEN, and Zamboanga Peninsula may also experience thunderstorms within the day.

"The rest of Mindanao will have partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rain showers and thunderstorms mostly in the afternoon or evening," the state weather bureau said.


GSIS-Pagadian holds consultative meeting; updates members on reforms, policies implemented

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)

PAGADIAN CITY, June 10 (PIA) – Active members of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) have converged here Monday for the third consultative meeting, tackling the reforms and policies currently pursued by the agency.

Invited to the said gathering were the officers or representatives of government workers’ unions both from the national government agencies (NGAs) and local government units (LGUs) as well as retirees and pensioners.

In his presentation, Atty. Dionisio C. Ebdane Jr., senior vice president for Visayas-Mindanao group, emphasized that the GSIS now is more consultative, transparent and member-focused to regain the trust of its members.

Ebdane also presented the reforms undertaken by the present GSIS management like the restoration of survivorship benefit (which was suspended in 2009), no more ARAS (annual renewal of active status) for pensioners, increased minimum basic pension to P5 thousand, payment of proportionate pension, choice of loan amortization schedule for pensioners, no more suspension of employees of suspended agencies, re-engagement with Land Bank of the Philippines, partnership with agencies to avoid overlaps in functions, and reduction of interest rate at 6 percent for emergency loans, among others.

He also disclosed that the GSIS was able to reduce the volume of inaccurate statements of accounts from P30 billion in 2010 to P2.4 billion in 2014.

With the reforms implemented by the agency, the number of suspended agencies has also gone down from 315 in 2010 to 92 in March 2015.

Under the present leadership, Ebdane said, the GSIS has been able to earn a net income of P139 billion in 2014 from P63.91 billion in 2010 and its total assets now account for P910 billion from P506.19 billion in 2009.

To sustain these gains, Ebdane has appealed to all members to stay vigilant and actively participate in consultative dialogues to protect the state workers’ money with the GSIS.

NCIP-9 extends educational assistance to IP studes

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)

PAGADIAN CITY, June 9 (PIA) – A total of 361 poor but deserving college students belonging to the Indigenous Peoples (IP) from all over Zamboanga Peninsula including those from Basilan Province have been given scholarships under the Educational Assistance Program (EAP) of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP)-9 for this school year, 2015-2016.

Regional EAP Focal Person Abdurasid Buddick told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that 353 of these scholars would each receive P10 thousand as educational assistance per semester and are required to maintain a weighted average grade of at least 80%. The other six who are classified under the “merit-based full scholarship” would be given P25 thousand each per semester and should maintain a weighted average grade of 85% or better.

These scholars are currently enrolled in various degree programs like Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED), Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSE), Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW), Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) and others.

Buddick advised the grantees to study hard in order to maintain their scholarships. “Until you won’t give us a chance to remove you from the list of scholars, you can continue enjoying the grant until you finish college,” Buddick emphatically said.

The IP scholars in the region are composed of Subanens, Kalibugans, Sama Bangingi, Badjaos and Yakans.

BIR operations greatly affected by brownout

By Bong Garcia

A TOP official of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said the daily brownout greatly affect the operations of BIR agency in Zamboanga Peninsula.

BIR Regional Director Alert Alocilja said everything is on a standstill during brownout since the operations their offices are computer-based.

Alocilja noted Zamboanga city had been experiencing six to seven hours daily rotational brownouts for the past months brought about by the lower power generation by the Mindanao grid.

The nearby provinces are also experiencing daily rotational brownouts.

Aside from Zamboanga City, Alocilja’s office covers the BIR offices in the Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte; Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur; Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay; Isabela City, Basilan, Jolo, Sulu; and, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.

Alocilja said he foresees there will be less collection of taxes in Zamboanga Peninsula due to the unabated brownouts.

The BIR central office has tasked Alocilja’s office to collect P6.57 billion in revenues here in the region this year.

Alocilja said they are set conducting bidding for the purchase power generators to be able to better serve the taxpayers in the region.

Armed Pusher Captured in Siocon; 11 Other Drug Suspects Nabbed

By Police Inspector Dahlan T. Samuddin with report from PO2 Radzben S. Jul (RPIO9)

Margosatubig, Zamboanga Del Sur - Eight individuals, including eleven sachets of suspected illegal drugs, were taken into police custody during an operation conducted by elements of Margosatubig Police Station and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Purok Rose, Barangay Poblacion at about 6:00 AM of June 2, 2015.

Police Senior Inspector Jonathan P. Lladoc - Margosatubig police chief, identified the arrested individuals as Saib Abibul y Sumayang, 33, Adskar Halis, 19, Janrey Mesa y Perez, 19, Sarah Datu-Oto, 23, Rodman Del Rosario y Salon, 22, Adjidkan Majid y Alhabsi, 32, Alfie Majid y Balilo y Itumay, 27, Abdulmajid Datu-Oto, 28. Confiscated items included eleven sachets of suspected shabu, a cellphone, drug paraphernalia, and Php 200.00 marked money. The arrested persons were brought to said police station for booking and was subsequently turned-over to PDEA for proper disposition.

Siocon, Zamboanga Del Norte - A motorcycle driver was arrested by anti-illegal drug operatives of Siocon Police Station during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Siay at about 2:30 PM on June 2, 2015. Police Chief Inspector Joseph Maulad - Siocon Police Chief, identified the suspect as Sahari Padila y Waras, 37, resident of said place. Confiscated from the suspect were a brown pouch containing two small sachets with white crystalline substance believe to be shabu, two small sachets with shabu residue, ₱500.00 cash, an ID card, drug paraphernalia, ₱500.00 marked money, one automatic Ingram pistol loaded with five rounds of cal .45 ammunition and a sachet of shabu as buy-bust evidence. The inventory of all confiscated items was done in the presence of Kagawad Larry Saligidan of Barangay Siay. Suspect is temporarily detained at above police station. He will be charged with a case for violation of RA 9165 and RA 10591, while all recovered items were temporarily deposited at above police station prior its turn-over to the Provincial Crime Laboratory Office.

Zamboanga City - A suspected drug pusher was arrested during a drug buy-bust operation carried out by the anti-illegal drug operatives of Zamboanga City Police Office led by Police Inspector Erwin B. Abrasado at Morning Glory St., Barangay Putik at about 4:30 PM of June 2, 2015. The arrested pusher was identified as Cris Fernando y Salih a.k.a. “Gaga”, 23, resident of Barangay Cabaluay. Confiscated from him were six sachets of suspected shabu, drug paraphernalia and Php 200.00 marked money. Suspect is presently detained at Zamboanga City Police Office for filing of appropriate charges in court.

Zamboanga City - A suspected drug pusher was arrested by the anti-illegal drug operatives of Zamboanga City Police Office led by Police Inspector Erwin B. Abrasado during a buy-bust operation at Zone 1, Barangay Lumbangan at about 12:10 AM on June 03, 2015. Suspect was identified as Eldemer Fernandez y Asuncion a.k.a. “Mermer”, 37, resident of said place. Confiscated from him were twelve sachets containing substance believed to be shabu, drug paraphernalia and Php 300.00 marked money. Suspect is presently detained at Zamboanga City Police Station 7 for filing of appropriate charges in court.

Zamboanga City - A suspected drug pusher fell into the hands of anti-illegal drugs operatives of Zamboanga City Police Station 11 during a drug buy-bust operation at Sucabon, Barangay Zone 2 at about 12:30 PM on June 02, 2015. The pusher was identified as Lemuel Lago y Lagasca, 30, resident of said place. Confiscated from him were two sachets of suspected shabu, drug paraphernalia, and Php 200.00 marked money. Suspect is presently detained at said police station for filing of appropriate charges in court.

Zambo Sur 2 most wanted persons fall

(PNA),RMA/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY, June 6 (PNA) – The police have arrested in a manhunt operation two of the most wanted persons in the province of Zamboanga del Sur, an official disclosed Saturday.

Sr. Supt. Sofronio Ecaldre, Zamboanga del Sur police director, identified the arrested wanted persons as Ronnie Mariquit, 37, and Diego Hormillada, 46, who are facing charges for rape and qualified rape, respectively, with no bail recommended.

Ecaldre said Mariquit was arrested around 8 p.m. Friday in Barangay Sto. Rosario, Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur.

Ecaldre said Mariquit was the number eight most wanted persons in Tukuran and had a standing arrest warrant for the crime of rape issued on Nov. 19, 2014 by a court in Pagadian City.

He said Hormillada was arrested also at around 8 p.m. Friday in Barangay Poblacion, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.

He said Hormillada has a standing warrant of arrest for the crime of qualified rape and is the number nine most wanted persons in Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur.

Pagadian City sets activities for 46th Founding Anniversary

(PNA), FPV/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, June 5 (PNA) – The city government has lined up several activities for the celebration of this city’s 46th Founding Anniversary on June 21.

City Information Officer Leah Agonoy said the week-long simple but meaningful activities will start on June 16 and will culminate June 21, the anniversary day.

Agonoy said week-long celebration will kick off June 16 with sports competition among barangays dubbed as the “Barangaylimpics” and the opening of the Pagadian City government employees association games and would culminate in the evening with the Department of Education (DepEd) night.

Agonoy said it will be followed the next day, with the opening of the Agro-Trade Fair at this city’s Plaza Luz covered court and the Miss Pagadian City Talent Night.

On the third day, June 18, Agonoy said there will be a clean-up drive in all urban and coastal baranghays and a Jobs Fair at the City Commercial Center (C3) Mall.

She said there will be a concelebrated mass at the Sto. Niño Cathedral on June 19 and the Miss Pagadian City coronation night.

She said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will hold mobile issuance of passports at the C3 Mall on June 20.

The awarding of the “Barangaylimpics” will be held on the same day at City Hall complex and the Concert of the Blind at the city Gymnasium in the evening.

Agonoy said the 46th Founding Anniversary will culminate on June 21 with a civic-military parade and the anniversary program.

Barangay San Pedro placed under state of calamity

By Gideon C. Corgue (ALT/GCC/PIA9-Zamboanga del Sur)

PAGADIAN CITY, June 4 (PIA) – The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has declared barangay San Pedro under a state of calamity, thus authorizing the release of funds for mitigating measures.

Mayor Romeo P. Pulmones said in a special session on Tuesday morning, June 2, the SP discussed the recommendation of the Crisis Management Committee and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) to declare barangay San Pedro under state of calamity.

The CDRRMC, chaired by the good mayor, made the recommendation in view of the damage brought about by the massive fire that broke out Monday morning in barangays San Pedro and Santiago, causing an estimated P20 million damage.

The 4-hour fire gutted 1,500 houses, killed a 60-year old resident, and forced majority of residents to leave the area.

“We declared barangay San Pedro under a state of calamity to expedite the government’s rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts in barangay San Pedro which was greatly devastated by the fire,” Pulmones said during the press conference.

Pulmones said he approved the release of “quick response fund” for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to help the victims. Financial assistance of P1,500/family was immediately extended by the city government for their immediate needs.

He assured that the city government will give additional cash assistance to fire victims for them to rebuild their houses.

“Mohatag pa kita sa dugang nga cash assistance apan gihimo pa sa kagamhanang lokal ning dakbayan ang makuti nga pagsusi sa ngalan sa mga biktima sa sunog aron malikayan ang double entry,” Pulmones added.

(We will give additional cash assistance but the city government is doing a thorough assessment on the names of fire victims to avoid double entry.)

Pulmones said an initial P5-M was spent by the city government on the day of the fire to provide immediate needs of the victims especially food, water and other basic necessities.

He revealed that a technical team had already been dispatched in the area to speed up survey, for the lot owners to immediately rebuild their houses.

“We will do everything within our means to help the fire victims,” Pulmones concluded.

Pagadian City allocates PHP5-M funds to help fire victims

(PNA), FFC/RCK/TPGJR/HDC

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, June 3 (PNA) -– The local government has allocated PHP5 million to provide financial assistance to the thousands of Monday’s fire victims from two coastal barangays of this city.

Mayor Romeo Pulmones told the Philippines News Agency that the financial allocation was taken from this city’s calamity funds as authorized by the City Council through a resolution approved Tuesday.

Pulmones said the funding allocation will be spent for food and other basic needs and cash financial assistance for the fire victims.

Pulmones said the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) listed more than 2,000 families that were affected in the fire incident that hit the coastal barangays of Santiago and San Pedro.

More than PHP20 million worth of properties were burned to ashes during the fire that broke out around 12:10 p.m. Monday in one of the houses at Purok Campo Islam, Barangay Santiago.

The fire fanned out towards the adjacent barangay of San Pedro due to strong winds and razed at least 1,500 houses mostly made of light materials and semi-concrete structures, a school and a Day Care Center.

A septuagenarian man was killed while his wife was injured in the fire that lasted for four hours.

The fire victims are temporarily housed at this city’s gymnasium, Plaza Luz’ covered court, Barangay Kawit covered court, and San Pedro Elementary School.

Continuous law enforcement operation significantly reduced NPA influence in Zamboanga del Sur

(PNA), SCS/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, June 2 (PNA) – A military official announced on Tuesday they have significantly reduced the influence of the New People’s Army (NPA) in most of the areas in this province.

Lt. Col. Alvin Luzon, Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion, said there was no recorded NPA-initiated violence for more than a year now within the area of responsibility of his command.

The Luzon-led battalion has jurisdiction over the one component city and 20 of the 26 towns of this province.

The six towns that are not within the jurisdiction of the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion are Bayog, Dumingag, Josefina, Mahayag, Molave, and Tambulig.

Luzon said the NPA failed to carry out atrocities since they were highly mobile brought about by the continuous law enforcement operation of his battalion in coordination with the police and local government units (LGUs).

Luzon said that national government organizations, peoples’ organizations and other civic groups within his area of jurisdiction also support his battalion’s peace- keeping efforts in line with “Oplan Bayanihan,” aside from the police and LGUs.

“We were able to accomplish our tasks because of the help and involvement of the concerned stakeholders,” Luzon said as he thanked the different sectors for their support.

Meanwhile, the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion celebrated on Friday its 13th founding anniversary with simple but fitting ceremonies.

The headquarters of the 53rd Infantry Battalion is based in the nearby town of Guipos, this province.

Parolees, probationers undergo orientation on DOLE’s livelihood programs

By Calro A. Lanipa (FPG/CAL/PIA9 with reports from Eddie Baldado)

PAGADIAN CITY, June 1 (PIA) – Some 52 probationers, parolees and pardonees including volunteer probation aides (VPAs) have recently attended an orientation on the Deparment of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) livelihood programs at Anastacia Pension House this city.

This activity was designed to effect positive changes in the lives of the parolees, probationers and pardonees as part of the Parole and Probation Administration (PPA)-Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Office No. 1’s commitment to improve the living conditions of its clients.

Camilo Encila Jr., officer-in-charge, DOLE- Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Office presented the Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Program (DILLEP), a government’s intervention program that seeks to contribute to poverty reduction and to reduce vulnerability to risk of the poor/marginalized sectors in the community.

Encila emphasized that “this program is part of the rehabilitation process to alleviate the socio-economic status of deprived individuals like the DOJ-PPA clients for them to normally go back to mainstream society productive, despite being in conflict with the law before.

He further said that his office would continue to support all PPA’s programs that focus on client’s welfare and development, “as this is the most humane expression for them to feel that they are still very important segment of the society.”

In line with agency’s goal of promoting the correction and rehabilitation of an offender by providing him/her with personalized community based treatment and an opportunity to become productive in his/her re-integration to mainstream society, the ZDSPPO No. 1 under the stewardship of Chief Probation and Parole Officer Nicasio D. Dujali, commits itself to pursue various rehabilitation activities geared for client’s reformation.

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