Zamboanga del Sur News September 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

MSMEs fortunate to avail SSF projects, says DTI-9 director

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

MOLAVE, Zamboanga del Sur, Sept. 30 (PIA) –Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-9 Regional Director Sitti Amina Jain recently commended the Micro, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (MSMEs) in the municipalities of Molave and Josefina for availing themselves of the Shared Service Facility (SSF) project of the agency.

In her message during the launching and turnover ceremony at Bogo Calapan Elementary School, Jain said the Molave Abaca Strippers Association (MASA) and Josefina Abaca Strippers Association (JASA) are so lucky to have availed of the project, the last under the DTI’s SSF fund for this year.

Jain said the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) had allocated P46 million for the SSF for 2014 but it was only implemented in 2015. “The DBM did not give us a single cent for the SSF program for 2016 that is why the SSF projects for MASA and JASA would be our ‘last hurrah’ for the MSMEs,” Jain announced.

“Unlike the projects of other national government agencies where the cooperators and or associations will pay the cost of the project that they acquired from the agencies, these SSFs are given by the DTI to MSMEs for free,” Jain said.

Jain appealed to MASA and JASA to use the machines productively and profitably adding that if the associations will fail to use it after six months, the SSF machines will be pulled out and it will be given to other associations.

“Since the SSF were given to you free, the government is very strict in monitoring the utilization of the projects,” Jain explained.

Jain also disclosed that the department had hired two personnel to monitor the SSF project. “From time to time, these people together with the staff of provincial office will monitor the utilization of the equipment.”

Jain hopes that the facilities will not become a white elephant saying that the money spent for the projects are the taxpayers’ money.

Provincial Director Ma. Socorro M. Atay of DTI-Zamboanga del Sur sought the sincere commitment from the associations to take care of the equipment so as to improve abaca farmers’ productivity to uplift their living condition.

MASA president Camilo Villarta in his acceptance speech said he vowed to take care of the machines saying that it is a great help for them to increase their income.

“Among atimanon pag-ayo kini mga makina tungod kay dako ni nga tabang sa imong panginabuhi. Dili na kami mohimo sa kinaraan nga pamaagi paglanot sa abaca ginamit ang among mga kamot (We will take care of these machines. These are a great help to our livelihood. We will no longer use the traditional method of stripping the abaca with our bare hands),” Villarta stressed.

Meanwhile, JASA president Joel Palomares thanked the DTI for its utmost concern to abaca farmers.

“Malipayon kaayo kami nga makapahimulos ning maong proyekto sa gobyerno tungod kay nagtuo kami nga pinaagi niini molambo na gayud ang among ekonomikanhong kahimtang (We are very happy to avail of this project from the government because we believe that through this, we will be able to improve our economic condition),” Palomares concluded. (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur) - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371443580394/msmes-fortunate-to-avail-ssf-projects-says-dti-9-director#sthash.QMWFnGi4.dpuf

DTI empowers officials of farmer cooperatives in Zambo Sur

(PNA), FFC/BNB/TPGJR/HDC

PAGADIAN CITY, Sept. 29 (PNA) -– The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) held a two-day Business Management Seminar and Operations Manual Writeshop for key officials of four farmer-cooperatives that recently received equipment through its Shared Service Facility (SSF) program in the province of Zamboanga del Sur.

DTI Provincial Director Ma. Socorro Atay told the Philippines News Agency that the seminar, which started Monday and ended Tuesday, was aimed to empower the farmer-cooperatives officials with the abilities that will ensure the success of the SSF projects.

Atay said those who attended the seminar are the officials of the following cooperatives: Josefina Abaca Strippers Association (JASA); Molave Abaca Strippers Association (MASA); Labangan Farmers First Consolidated Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LAFFICO); Kahugungan sa Mag-uuma, Mamumuon Kababayen-an sa Zamboanga del Sur (KASAMMAKA); and, Dinas Small Coconut Farmers Organization (DCFO).

They received last week abaca processing machines, organic fertilizer processing machines and coco coir processing equipment from DTI through the SSF program with a total worth of PHP3,680,000.

Atay said the SSF program is a priority project of DTI under the “big push” for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) development program.

Atay said the SSF aims to address the gaps in the supply chain of an identified project by providing processing or manufacturing tools, equipment and machines for the common use of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

She said among the objectives of the SSF projects is to enhance the competitiveness of the priority industry clusters through the use of quality and productivity enhancing machinery and equipment.

She said the SSF projects also hope to develop priority and market-driven industries in support to the National Industry Capacity Enhancement Program (NICEP).

2 missing in Zamboanga del Sur due to Typhoon Jenny –NDRRMC

(PNA), FPV/CLTC

MANILA, Sept. 28 (PNA) -- The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on Monday reported that two peesons in Zamboanga del Sur were missing during the onslaught of typhoon ”Jenny."

NDRRMC identified the missing persons as Paharodin Tinggalong, 20 and, Lacmodin Tinggalong, 16.

On September 25 at 8 p.m., thunderstorms brought heavy rains that caused flashfloods in Barangay Bulanit, Municipality Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur which resulted to two victims missing who were fishing near the boundary of the river when strong current due to flashflood destroyed their boat making them fall into water.

Authorities are now in search and rescue operations for the victims.

The NDRRMC said that "Jenny " has affected 378 families or 1,866 people in Himamaylan City, Kabankalan City and municipality of Isabela, all in Negros Occidental.

It added that as of 1 p.m. on Sept. 26, the affected families (335) in Himamaylan City returned to their houses after the flood subsided.

Meanwhile, a total 13 houses in Municipality of Isabela in Negros Occidental were totally damaged.

A total of six vessels and three motorbancas were stranded in the port of Coast Guaad Station in Tagbilaran and Cebu due to rough sea condition caused by typhoon Jenny.

GSIS-Pagadian hold pensioners' day

By Claro A. Lanipa (FPG/CAL/PIA9-Zamboanga del Sur)

PAGADIAN CITY, (PIA) – Nearly 300 pensioner’s gathered at the Liga ng mga Barangay hall here last Saturday for the Pensioners’ Day sponsored by the Government Service Insurance Service (GSIS), Pagadian City branch office.

Mr. Leoncito S. Manuel, GSIS Pagadian City branch head, officially announced during the said occasion that the members and pensioners would receive additional benefits starting September this year.

Among the benefits offered are as follows; funeral benefit of GSIS members and pensioners will be increased from P20,000 to P30,000. In addition, more than 272,000 regular old-age and disability pensioners as of Dec. 31, 2014 will receive a one-time benefit equivalent to one-month pension, or P10,000 whichever is lower, Manuel said.

GSIS will also be introducing a “milestone” benefit scheme for almost 6,000 pensioners who, as of September 1, 2015 are 90 to 94 years old will be granted a milestone benefit of P20,000; while 1,100 pensioners who are 95-99 years old will get P50,000; and 181 pensioners who are 100 years old and above will get P100,000.

Moreover, starting Sept. 2, 2015 and thereafter, regular pensioners will be paid the following milestone benefit on their birthday: P20,000 to pensioners who turn 90 years old; P30,000 to pensioners who will turn 95 years old; and , P50,000 to pensioners who turn 100 years old, Manuel added.

GSIS is in a position to enhance these benefits due to its record financial performance in 2014 with a total assets reached to P908 billion while income spiked to P140 billion and revenues to P231 billion.

Meanwhile, pensioners were also provided with free medical check-up and consultation, fasting blood sugar test, dental services, haircut, medicines and vitamins during last Saturday’s pensioners’ day.

Pagadian Raid Nets Notorious Pusher, Drugs and Lots of Firearms

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

Pagadian City, Zamboanga Del Sur - A total of four sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu and several firearms were confiscated from a notorious drug pusher during a drug buy-bust operation carried out by operatives of Pagadian City Police Station and Regional Public Safety Battalion 9 at Zone 2, Barangay Muricay at about 4:30 AM on September 16, 2015.

This led to the arrest of Sunny Mapait y Dalingding, who is included in the watch list of drug personalities in Pagadian City. The raiding team also served a search warrant for illegal drugs and loose firearms issued by Judge Joel G. Vercide dated September 15, 2015 at the house of the suspect which also resulted in the confiscation of the following items - one M1 Garand Riffle with defaced serial number, 27 rounds of caliber .30 ammunition, one homemade cal .45 with defaced serial number, one caliber .45 magazine, seven rounds of caliber .45 ammunition, one homemade caliber .38 pistol with defaced serial number, one homemade caliber .357, five rounds of 12-gauge shotgun ammunition, and several drug paraphernalia. Arrested suspect was brought to Pagadian City Police Station for his temporary confinement while appropriate charges are being prepared for filing in court.

Power transmission services in Zambo restored

By Bong Garcia

THE National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) said trees and vegetation tripped off the transmission line that caused power outage Thursday in the regions of Zamboanga Peninsula and parts of Northern Mindanao.

Elizabeth Ladaga, NGCP regional corporate communications officer, said in a statement Friday that investigation showed trees and vegetation along the Baloi-Aurora 138 kilovolt (KV) in the village of Ditucalan, Iligan City, caused the line to trip at 9:35 a.m. Thursday.

“This resulted in power interruptions affecting the entire Zamboanga Peninsula as well as Misamis Occidental, and parts of Lanao del Norte,” Ladaga added.

Ladaga said the planting of trees and vegetation clearly violates the company’s right-of-way policy and breached the recommended safety clearance.

She said they implemented on Thursday the blackout restoration procedures in the affected areas to bring back electricity transmission services to customers.

She said the scheduled maintenance shutdown on the second line -- Agus 5-Aurora 138-KV -- delivering power to Zamboanga Peninsula was aborted to bring back the power immediately to the affected areas.

She said the Agus 5-Aurora 138-kV line was energized at 11:02 a.m. Thursday, restoring power to Zamboanga Peninsula.

The Baloi–Aurora 138-kV line, on the other hand, was energized at 1:13 p.m. after trees and vegetation that caused the line fault was cleared.

Power outages hit Region 9, parts of Northern Mindanao

(PNA), FFC/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 24 (PNA) -– The entire Region 9 and parts of Northern Mindanao have experienced power outage Thursday due to a line fault in the transmission line of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP).

Elizabeth Ladaga, NGCP regional corporate communications officer, said the line fault was between the sub-stations in Baloi, Lanao del Norte and Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur.

“Reports indicated that power loss was experienced at 9:34 a.m. due to the tripping of Baloi-Aurora 138 kilovolt (KV) line,” Ladaga added.

She said they are still determining the cause of the transmission line fault and “will issue a statement immediately when investigation is completed.”

She said power service has been restored in parts of Northern Mindanao around 11:40 a.m. after implementing a remedial scheme.

Meanwhile, power service has resumed shortly before 2 p.m. in this city which is being served by an Independent Power Producer (IPP), the Western Mindanao Power Corporation (WMPC).

Omar Sahi, Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative (Zamcelco) president, told the Philippines News Agency that the 100-megawatt WMPC has get-off the Mindanao grid and “went on island mode” of operation to supply power to this city.

The WMPC of the Alsons Power Group operates a 100-MW diesel-fired power plant in Barangay Sangali, 25.34 kilometers east of City Hall.

Provincial gov’t fetes 2015 Most Outstanding ZamboSurians

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

PAGADIAN CITY, Sept. 22 (PIA) – Judges, entrepreneurs, and bankers who made significant contributions to the development of Zamboanga del Sur for the past year were cited recently in a simple but fitting ceremonies held at the Megayon Stage, Provincial Government Center, Dao, this city.

Institutionalized by the provincial government since 2010 to inspire individuals to seek greater heights and strive for success in the noble mission of propelling Zamboanga del Sur and its people towards economic growth and sustainable development, seven (7) individuals were recognized as Most Outstanding ZamboSurians 2015.

The awardees were: Regional Trial Court Judge Rolando L. Goan (Justice System); Retired City Prosecutor Reynaldo L. Goan (Justice System); Retired Judge Edilberto G. Absin (Justice Sytem); Leonila F. Tecson (Women Empowerment and Development); Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Director Ernesto D. Dinglasa (Banking and Finance); Henry L. Tan (Entrepreneurship); and Clyton H. Tugonon (Entrepreneurship).

The awardees were formally recognized by local government officials led by no less than the chief executive for their significant contributions in making Zamboanga del Sur a highly competitive and peaceful province.

Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles in his message said the awardees will serve as role models in our society and worthy of emulation by the young generation, adding that they have contributed much for the betterment of the province.

“You are most honored and deserving to receive the kind of accolade that we bestowed on you because you have contributed a lot for the development of the province,” he explained.

“The award that you received is more prestigious because the province is admired, honored and respected by many people being adjudged recently as the 5th Most Competitive province in the country by the National Competitiveness Council (NCC),” Cerilles proudly announced.

“The NCC’s award to the province measures the local government unit’s quality of infrastructure, economic dynamism and government efficiency,” the good governor added.

He underscored the tradition of the provincial government to give awards to outstanding policemen, soldiers, teachers, farmers, businessmen/entrepreneurs and lawyers during its annual founding anniversary celebration.

Meanwhile, the chief executive attributed the success of the province to the political and institutional leaders who are united with one vision - to think whatever is best for the community.

DAR to distribute Php10.2-M common service facilities to ARBOs in Zambo Sur, Zambo Norte

(PNA), FPV/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 21 (PNA) – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is set to distribute Php10.2 million worth of common service facilities (CSFs) to Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) in the province of Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur.

Eng’r. Felix Aguhob, DAR regional director, said Monday the CSFs consist of nine unit tractors, which are aimed to boost the productivity of the ARBO-beneficiaries.

Aguhob said four of the nine units tractors will be distributed to four ARBOs in the province of Zamboanga del Norte while the remaining five units in Zamboanga del Sur.

Aguhob said the ARBO-beneficiaries in Zamboanga del Norte are the following: Guinles Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (GUIFAMUCO), Polanco; S. Cabral Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association (SCARBAS), Siocon; A.L. Micubo Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association (ALMARBAS), Siocon; and, Siari Valley Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SVARBEMCO), Sindangan.

Mohammad Dassan Adju, Zamboanga del Norte provincial agrarian reform officer, said the distribution of the CSFs is in line with DAR’s mandate to increase the productivity of every agrarian reform beneficiary.

“With the aid of the farming facilities provided by DAR, it will surely make an impact to the lives of the farmer beneficiaries,” Adju said.

Aguhob said the farm equipment are being provided to ARBOs under the Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) that is implemented by them.

Through ARCCESS, Aguhob said DAR will introduce new farming technology to the farmer beneficiaries to develop their farmer organizations and ultimately increase their farm yield.

Aguhob said the ARBO recipients were identified through a series of processes conducted by the agency.


DSWD assesses level of ‘well-being’ of 4Ps families in R9

By JOCELYN P. ALVAREZ (ALT/JPA/PIA9) 14:37

How well are the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) recipients doing, a year after being enrolled in the program as beneficiaries? What are the changes and progress in their lives and living conditions? These are but few of the questions the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here would like to know to determine the impact of this government poverty intervention program in the lives of the marginalized sector.

There are close to 288,000 4Ps household-beneficiaries in the entire region 9 and the social welfare department, is currently conducting an enhanced Social Welfare and Development Indicators (SWDI) assessment to determine as to what extent these families have improved their lives based on their economic sufficiency and stability, as well as their social adequacy.

The SWDI

Regional Director Zenaida Arevalo said the SWDI is a tool being used by the department to assess the level of well-being of the 4Ps families - from survival, subsistence, and self-sufficiency.

Arevalo averred, SWDI assessment is essential so that needed interventions, which may include employment facilitation, skills training and provision of livelihood opportunities can be carefully and efficiently planned out.

The SWDI monitoring scheme is a yearly assessment applied to 4Ps grantees.

Conduct of the SWDI

As of early September, there are already 35,686 households assessed and evaluated, quite a long way to go putting to consideration the 288,000 target of 4Ps grantees for assessment until October 20, 2015.

Assessment is done through actual visitation and conduct of interview by DSWD’s field workers, municipal / city links, community empowerment facilitators and project development officers.

In the SWDI, families are being evaluated in terms of their economic sufficiency and social adequacy.

In economic sufficiency, families are being assessed based on the employability skills of members including employment and salary, source of income, membership to social security and access to financial institutions.

Meanwhile, in social adequacy, families are assessed based on the members’ health condition, nutrition and education, access to safe drinking water, sanitary toilet facility, house construction and ownership, and social issues awareness.

Results of the evaluation will also serve as the baseline of the department in evaluating poverty alleviation programs and services.

DENR collects 10 tons of garbage in Zambo del Sur coastal clean-up activity

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

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Sept. 19 (PNA) -- At least 10 tons of garbage were collected during the coastal clean-up activity spearheaded Saturday by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in selected areas in this city.

Tito Gadon, DENR regional conservation and development chief, said more than five thousands volunteers joined the coastal clean-up activity that started 6 a.m. and ended at 10:30 a.m.

The activity kicked-off the observance of the International Clean-up Month here in the region.

The International Clean-up Month starts September 19 to October 19.

The clean-up was held in the 11 coastal barangays in this city namely: Bomba, Poloyagan, Napolan, Dumagoc, Santa Lucia, Santiago, San Pedro, Lumbia, Kawit, White Beach and Muricay.

Gadon expressed gratitude to the participants from the different sectors who joined the coastal clean-up activity.

The participants are from the Philippine Coast Guard, police, military, ROTC cadets of different schools, and non-government organizations.

Meanwhile, Gadon urged the people, especially coastal dwellers, to refrain from disposing garbage on rivers and seashores so as not to destroy “our natural resources.”

He said there is a need to protect the sea since it is the source of fish of the more than a dozen canneries based here in the region.

This year’s observance of the International Coastal Cleanup Day is anchored on the theme “Bayanihan para sa malinis na Katubigan at Karagatan.”

DENR leads celebration of International Clean-up Month in Region 9

By Hirohito D.Cadion [(PNA), CTB/TPGJR/HDC]

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Sept. 18 (PNA) – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is spearheading on Saturday a coastal clean-up activity to kick-off the observance of the International Clean-up Month here in Region 9.

Tito Gadon, DENR regional conservation and development chief, said Friday the coastal clean-up will be held in 11 coastal barangays in this city namely: Bomba; Poloyagan; Napolan; Dumagoc; Santa Lucia; Santiago; San Pedro; Lumbia; Kawit; White Beach; and, Muricay.

Gadon said similar activity will be also held in the beaches of the nearby towns of Tukuran and Labangan.

Gadon said the coastal clean-up will be participated in by the different sectors such as the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), police, military, ROTC cadets of different schools, and non-government organizations.

“We are requesting everybody to support the celebration of the International Clean-up Month from September 19 until October by conducting Costal Clean-up activity in selected areas here in the region,” he added.

He urged the people, especially coastal dwellers, to refrain from disposing garbage on rivers and seashores so as not to destroy “our natural resources.”

He said there is a need to protect the sea since it is the source of fish of the more than a dozen canneries based here in the region.

This year’s observance of the International Coastal Clean-up Month is anchored on the theme “Bayanihan para sa malinis na Katubigan at Karagatan.”

6 Zamboanga towns ‘adopt’ Grace Poe

By Bernadette E. Tamayo

SIX municipalities in Zamboanga del Sur have declared Sen. Grace Poe as their “adopted daughter” in recognition of her efforts to eradicate malnutrition among Filipino children.

The municipalities of Dumingag, Tigbao, Bayog, Mahayag and Tukuran, all in Zamboanga del Sur, issued resolutions “declaring Sen. Mary Grace Sonora Poe-Llamanzares as adopted daughter for her efforts to pass a measure, Senate Bill No. 79, aimed at addressing the fight against hunger and malnutrition among children.”

A UNICEF report revealed that 3.6 million Filipino children aged 0 to 59 months are underweight while four million are stunted.

Poe said malnutrition remains a huge challenge in the Philippines despite economic growth in recent years.

Under SBN 79 or the “Sustansiya sa Batang Pilipino Act,“ children enrolled in all public kindergarten and elementary schools will be given nutritious meals five days a week for 120 days a year, for the next five years.

The program, which received a P3.2 billion funding this year, is expected to benefit two million malnourished and severely wasted children. It is the first time a feeding initiative will be carried out extensively.

Last July, the municipality of Bagac in Bataan issued a similar resolution recognizing Poe’s efforts to “uplift the health of the people” in the country’s poorest regions.

“Nakakataba naman po ng puso ang pag-ampon na ito ng ating mga kababayan sa Zamboanga del Sur at Bataan. Siguro naman po ay walang magkakaso sa akin tungkol dito?” said Poe.

“Nakakatuwang isipin na ang mga ginagawa natin sa Senado ay umaabot sa bawat sulok ng Pilipinas. Ito po ang tunay na hangad natin bilang isang public servant,” she added.

Bagac, Bayog and Mahayag are third-class municipalities; Tukuran is fourth-class, Tigbao is fifth-class, and Dumingag second-class -- all have a significant population of malnourished children that will benefit from the feeding program.

PIA-9 gears up for ISO certification

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)

PAGADIAN CITY, Sept. 16 (PIA) – Following a workshop on the Quality Management System (QMS) conducted last week at the central office of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in Quezon City for regional ISO focal persons, all PIA-9 personnel have also converged here to discuss the salient features and requirements for the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification starting Sept. 14-17.

In her opening statement, Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga has reiterated Communications Secretary Sonny Coloma’s directive to make all PIA regional offices ISO-certified.

Director Edaga started the four-day conference-workshop with a discussion on the Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS) followed by the requirements for ISO 9001:2008 certification.

It can be recalled that during the QMS workshop, Secretary Coloma emphasized that with the ISO the PIA regional offices will now have the benchmark in their operations.

“We are now building a stronger agency – that is ISO-certified PIA,” Coloma stressed.

An internal audit is slated to be conducted to PIA regional offices before the end of this year and the external audit is expected to take place during the first quarter of 2016.

On the final day the group will proceed to Manuel’s place in Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte for a teambuilding activity.

1st Cavalry Squadron exceeds NGP target for 2016

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

TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur, Sept. 15 (PIA) – In a bid to finally make the National Greening Program (NGP) of the goverment sustainable, the 1st Cavalry Squadron, Mechanized Infantry Division, Philippine Army recently planted some 2,000 mahogany seedlings in barangay Navalan here.

The officers and men of the 1st Cavalry Squadron led by LtCol. Charlemagne Batayola, Jr,. in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), office of 1st district representative Victor J. Yu and barangay officials of Navalan conducted the tree planting in the hilly part of the four-hectare farm of Barangay Captain Leoncio Osores.

Batayola said the tree planting activity was in support to the NGP, President Aquino’s flagship reforestation program which aims to plant 1.5 billion trees in 1.5 million hectares by 2016.

He said the activity will not only alleviate poverty and achieve food security, but it will also help address the problem on climate change.

Under the NGP, Batayola said the unit was given a quota of 8,800 trees to be planted and the unit was able to overshoot its goal.

From 2013 to 2015, he said the 1st Cavalry Squadron conducted five tree planting activities in the adopted sister barangays and within the period, they were able to plant more than 8,800 seedlings in the area.

“We have exceeded the NGP target since we planted 2,000 additional mahogany seedlings,” Batayola proudly announced.

“This is how we showcase the group’s shared passion in sustaining the efforts of the government in greening the Philippines,” he added.

Batayola said the activity was also part of the 9th founding anniversary of the Mechanized Infantry Division in Capas, Tarlac on September 11, where the different companies have conducted simultaneous tree planting activities in Basilan, Jolo, Sulu and Zamboanga City, respectively.

Meanwhile, Punong Barangay Leoncio Osores said he mobilized the ‘Bantay Kalikasan’, which composed of barangay tanods to prepare the planting holes, help in planting trees and take care of the newly planted seedlings.

“Among gitabangan ang 1st Cavalry Squadron dili lamang sa pagpananom ug mga kahoy, kun dili lakip na ang pag-amuma niini aron nga ang tanan motubo (We helped the 1st Cavalry Squadron not only in planting trees but also in taking care of it so that it will all grow),”Osores explained.

Teresita Puno, 63 years old said she did not fail to join the tree planting activity spearheaded by the unit saying that it is her commitment to help in restoring the environment.

“Lima na ka higayon nga nga wala ko misipyat pag-apil sa pagpananom ug kahoy nga gipasiugdahan sa 1st Cavalry Sqaudron. Mokabat na sa 50 ka mahogany seedlings ang akong natanom dinhi sa bukid,” Puno proudly said.

(For five times, I have not failed to join the tree planting activity conducted by the 1st Cavaly Squadron. There were about 50 mahogany seedlings that I have planted in this mountain)

Batayola attributed the successful implementation of the tree planting activity to the support of various stakeholders such as the DENR, barangay officials and residents and other private-sector partners.

Zambo Sur awards 10 policemen, 12 soldiers

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

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Sept. 14 (PNA) -– The provincial government has awarded 10 policemen and 12 soldiers as well as other officials in recognition for their contribution in the fight against all forms of criminality in this province.

Gov. Antonio Cerilles personally handed over the award on Saturday dubbed as the “Peace and Order Night” which formed part of the week-long 63rd Founding Anniversary celebration of this province.

Maj. Gen. Gerardo Barrientos, Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, and Local Government Regional Director Paisal Abutazil assisted Cerilles in handing over the awards.

The awardee police officers and policemen are the following: Chief Insp. Gailsen Manesen; Chief Insp. Usman Edong; Senior Insp. Andrew Limod; Senior Insp. Harold Bruno; Insp. Psyche Baroquillo; SPO4 Alvin Maturan; SPO2 Nerome Soon; PO3 Elpedro Gelsamo; PO3 Lucille Baniqued; and, PO2 Roel Elarmo.

The awardee officers and enlisted personnel as follows: 1Lt. Roosevelt Cadiz; 1Lt. Mark Lester Pulay; 1Lt. Myven Prima; Sgt. Faisal Albi; Sgt. Walter Fiel; Sgt. Clift Winston Gella; Cpl. Evies De Los Reyes; Cpl. Nermie Luther Donato; Cpl. Zaldy Samson; Cpl. Eugene Doton; Cpl. Pomulo Ybanñez; and, PFC Vergel Peralta.

Special awards were also given to Senior Supt. Sofronio Ecaldre, provincial police director; and, Supt. Michael Palermo, provincial public safety company commander.

Cerilles also given Special Recognitions to Verner Virgilio Jaime, local government provincial director; and, Atty. Domingo Redelosa IV, Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) regional governor.

During the same ceremony, Abuitazil also handed a Certificate of Good Governance to Cerilles.

The week-long 63rd Founding Anniversary celebration kicked off September 10 and ends on Thursday.

This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Lig-on nga Pangagamhanan, Sandigan sa Mauswagong Katawhan sa Lalawigan.” (Strong Governance, Foundation of Progressive People in the Province).

Minor nabbed for stealing faucets from Pagadian hardware store

(Daily Zamboanga Times)

A 12-year-old was nabbed for allegedly shoplifting four faucets from a hardware store in Pagadian City in Zamboanga del Sur, a report form GMA’s “Balitanghali” said Saturday.

The report said the security guard stopped the suspect from leaving the store after he noticed that he was acting suspicious.

The suspect tried to resist and escape but was apprehended. He admitted to the crime and said he was going to sell the faucets to buy rice.

The suspect, being a minor, was brought to the Department of Social Welafare and Development which handles cases of children in conflict with the law.

5 Illegal Fishermen Caught in Margosatubig

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

Zamboanga Del Sur - Elements of Margosatubig Police Station led by Police Chief Inspector Jonathan P. Lladoc conducted a seaborne-patrol operation at Dumangquillas Bay in Barangay Talanusa, Margosatubig at about 7:40 PM on September 3, 2015.

This resulted in the interception of one fishing boat locally known as “tare-tare” and arrest of five suspects identified as Valerio Macahis y Gantalao, 38, Arnold Jerusalem y Galorio, 38, Junie Gabatcha y Canoy, 36 years old, Caloy Hugo y Ebag, and Margcelino Ganabis y Gerolaga, 48, all residents of Barangay Igat Island, this municipality. Confiscated from their possession were the said fishing boat, fishnet, and assorted fish weighing about 80 kilos. The arrested persons were immediately brought to Margosatubig Police Station for proper disposition of the case.

Swimmers Anor, Jalmaani shine in PNG Mindanao elims

(PNA), RMA/JFM/PR

PAGADIAN, Sept. 11 (PNA) -- Christian Paul Anor and Shermalyn Jalmaani dominated swimming while Pagadian City’s Michelle Ann Sampang Marianie Llogono bagged the first athletic golds at the start of the POC-PSC Philippine National Games Mindanao eliminations here on Friday.

A second fiddle to Manila’s Maurice Sacho Ilustre in the last Palarong Pambansa held in Tagum, Lanao del Norte last May, Anor showed himself a cut above the rest of the Mindanao swimmers, ruling all of his six events at the PGC Sports Arena pool.

The 16-year-old pride of Balanga, Davao Oriental kicked of his blitzkrieg by ruling the 400-meter freestyle in four minutes and 31.43 seconds before prevailing in the 200-meter backstroke (2:20.94), 100-meter free (56.31), 200-meter free (2:10.36), 100-meter back (1:05.40) and 1,500-meter freestyle (18:22.41) in adding to his golden haul.

“We’re happy because we qualified in the PNG national finals,” said the lanky Baculin National High School Grade 10 student after his eye-popping outing in this meet organized by the Philippine Olympic Committee and Philippine Sports Commission.

Anor will be targeting a sweep of all of his nine individual events when he sees action in the 200-meter individual medley, 50-meter back and 50-meter freestyle today in the sportsfest supported by the Zamboanga del Sur provincial government under Gov. Antonio Cerilles.

Jalmaani, the youngest daughter of swimming legend Amman Jalmaani, was just as impressive with four golds, topping the girls 100-meter freestyle (1:12.77), 50-meter backstroke (39.09), 200-meter freestyle (2:38.32) while pacing the Zamboanga City tankers to victory in the 200-meter medley relay (2:36.48).

”Malamang magiging masaya po ang father ko kasi may chance ako maging national swimmer katulad niya,” said Jalmaani, 16, whose father had a glittering career in the sixties and was a three-time Olympian.

Among the elder Jalmaani’s swimming highlights were two bronze medals in the 1966 Bangkok Asian Games and two silvers when Thailand got to host the continental sports showcase once again four years later.

Host Zamboanga del Sur likewise had reason to celebrate after Michelle Ann Sampang and Marianie Llogono of Pagadian City swept the women’s and girls 10,000-meter races at the track oval located at the center of the provincial capital.

Sampang ruled the women’s division in 42 minutes and 33.1 seconds while Llogono topped the girl’s division in 47.39.5.

Llogono is a product of the Zamboanga del Sur Sports Academy formed by Gov. Cerilles, whose province is celebrating its 63rd founding anniversary.

“Super duper happy. Simply overwhelmed,” said Sampang, 21, a silver medalist in the same event at the 2012 PRISAA Collegiate Games held in Cebu, of her breakthrough victory that earned her a ticket to next year’s POC-PNG national finals.

Misamis Oriental’s Efrelyn Demecer, the reigning Palaro record holder in the girls javelin set in Lanao del Norte, tried her hand in the discus throw and came away with a gold with a heave of 27.21 meters.

Sharing the spotlight were Zamboanga City’s Joey Albert Florendo and Davao City’s Exiquila Apao, who captured the gold medals in the men’s and women’s division of the blitz competitions of chess late Thursday evening.

Florendo, who won the Challenger’s division of the last year’s Philippine International Chess Championships, had 6.5 points in securing the gold while while Apao took top honors on the distaff side with six points.


PNG Mindanao eliminations kick off Friday in Pagadian

(PNA), RMA/JFM/PR

PAGADIAN, Sept. 10 (PNA) -- Over 2,000 athletes from 70 local government units aspiring to become national athletes someday swing to action on Friday at the start of the POC-PNG Philippine National Games Mindanao eliminations at this scenic and cool seaport city here.

A total of 12 sports are on tap in the meet jointly organized by the Philippine Olympic Committee and Philippine Sports Commission and supported by the Zamboanga del Sur provincial government led by Gov. Antonio Cerilles.

Scheduled in the four-day sportsfest are archery, arnis, badminton, billiards, boxing, chess, karatedo, swimming, taekwondo and the national finals of futsal and softball, majority of them to be held at the sprawling 65-hectare sports complex built by Gov. Cerilles four years ago.

“I was quite impressed by the complex because it is complete and truly conducive for developing athletes,” noted PSC chairman Richie Garcia, who arrived Thursday and was given a tour of the facility by the governor.

“We hope that other LGUs could follow the example of Zambonga del Sur,” Garcia said. “Hopefully Mindanao’s athletes could take advantage of this facility so they can develop and excel and challenge our national athletes in next year’s POC-PNG national finals.”

“We welcome all our athletes from Mindanao and are honored to host the eliminations of POC-PNG here,” said Cerilles, who has formed a Zamboanga del Sur Sports Academy catering to 200 athlete scholars from all over the region.

A protégé of the late POC president Gov. Jose Sering, a sports patron who groomed several past national athletes, including the multi-titled javelin thrower Erlinda Lavandia, he said all academy scholars not only receive athletic training but also lodging, education and good nutrition.

“Our aim to become hub for grassroots sports development in Mindanao, on top of enhancing the quality of life of our athletes,” Gov. Cerilles added.

Garcia formally opened the POC-PNG Mindanao leg here on Thursday in simple opening rites held at the CYC oval inside the sports complex where Mario Fernandez, a boxing gold medalist in the last Singapore Southeast Asian Games, lit the urn.

Sports Academy scholar Ruthelma Laylay, a Milo Mindanao Little Olympics champion, led the oath of sportsmanship for athletes.

Track and field competitions unfold at 7 a.m. Friday with 12 finals to be held at the Pagadian City oval in the center of the city.

Among those competing here is Lanao del Norte Palarong Pambansa standout Jie Ann of Plaridel, Misamis Oriental, who broke Palaro records in winning the girls 800, 1,500 and 3,000-meter races.

Chess actually started yesterday with the men’s and women’s blitz event finals.

Police tightens security as Zambo Sur marks 63rd anniversary

(PNA), FFC/TPGJR/HDC

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Sept. 9 (PNA) -– The police in coordination with the military has tightened the implementation of security measures to ensure the peaceful celebration of the week-long provincial anniversary.

The activities for the week-long celebration of the 63rd Araw ng Zamboanga del Sur will kick-off Thursday and ends September 17.

Senior Supt. Sofronio Ecaldre, provincial police director, said policemen and soldiers will be detailed in all of the venues of activities.

Ecaldre said that policemen from other municipalities in the province have been temporarily assigned to this city to augment the local police force.

Ecaldre said the military counterpart in handling the security measures are troops from the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion.

The celebration of the provincial anniversary is couple with the holding of the Philippine National Games, which will also kick-off Thursday.

Around 6,000 athletes and sports officials will see action in the five-day PNG in this city.

Pagadian City joins National Crime Prevention Week observance

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

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Sept. 8 (PNA) -– Mayor Romeo Pulmones has urged the public to help the law enforcers in the fight against all forms of criminality in this city.

Pulmones made the call as this city joined the observance of the 21st National Crime Prevention Week that kicked off Monday, citing crime prevention is the task of everyone and not just of the law enforcers.

“Let us help our police force in resolving and fighting against all forms of criminalities in our city,” Pulmones added.

He commended the local police for the good performance and gaining the support to the community in the maintenance of peace and order to include in the anti-drug campaign.

Senior Supt. Sofronio Ecaldre, provincial police director, reported that the crime volume for the first semester of this year dropped by 32 percent.

Ecaldre said that shooting incidents dropped by 25 percent and crime against property declined by 48 percent.

This year’s National Crime Prevention Week observance is anchored on the theme “Krimen ay Tuldukan, Karapatan ay Igalang.”

Stakeholder’s awareness, active involvement in crime prevention vital, says Pagadian mayor

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

PAGADIAN CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) – To jumpstart the celebration of the 21st National Crime Prevention Week, participating agencies and various stakeholders on Monday conducted a motorcade from the City Plaza to major thoroughfares in the city which ended with a brief program at the City Hall grounds.

Mayor Romeo P. Pulmones, the event’s keynote speaker underscored the importance of the celebration saying that, “crime prevention is a task of society, not just of the law enforcers.”

He also tackled the importance of the theme, “Krimen ay Tuldukan, Karapatan ay Igalang” to local officials and stakeholders. “The awareness and active involvement of barangay officials in crime prevention will prove to be inherent in the realization of this year’s theme,” Pulmones stressed.

“Ako naghangyo sa mga barangay officials nga dili nato isalig sa tanang panahon sa kapulisan ang pagbantay sa kalinaw sa atong dakbayan tungod kay kulang ang gidaghanon sa kapulisan nga nagbantay kanato. Aduna lamang kita’y 169 ka mga miyembro sa kapulisan nga nagtabang pagmentenar sa kahusay ug kalinaw sa dakbayan,” (I am appealing to barangay officials not to heavily depend on the PNP in providing security to the city at all times because we only have 169 PNP members that help maintain peace and order in the city) Pulmones urged.

The chief executive was glad to hear the report of PNP Provincial Director PSSupt. Sofronio P. Ecaldre that the crime volume in the province for the first semester of this year decreased by 32 percent, shooting incidence or crime committed by the use of firearm also declined by 25 percent and crimes against property or robbery registered at 48 percent lesser as compared to the same period in 2014.

Pulmones expressed confidence that the peace and order of the city will be sustained due to police visibility strictly implemented by the PNP, and with the active and strong support of various stakeholders especially the civilians.

“The visible presence of the PNP in the streets prevents people from committing crimes,” he added.

Meanwhile, Napolcom-9 Regional Director Pablito Abad, Jr. called on the public to assist the police in the maintenance of peace and order in the city adding that “‘peace and order is not only the work of the police but is everybody’s concern.”

“As we observe the NCPR week, I urge everyone to be vigilant at home or when going to public places to prevent them from being victimized by lawless elements,” Abad concluded.

3 fall in anti-drug operation in Margosatubig town

By Bong Garcia

COMBINED police and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) have arrested three people listed in the drug watch lists in a buy-bust operation in Zamboanga del Sur, the police reported.

Senior Superintendent Sofronio Ecaldre, Zamboanga del Sur police director, identified the arrested suspects as the following: Julasbi Dacula, 25; Usman Manabilang, 35; and, Noron Mawalaw, 58.

Ecaldre said the suspects were arrested around 1 p.m. of Thursday in the village of Poblacion, Margosatubig, Zamboanga Del Sur.

Ecaldre said the suspects were arrested after they allegedly sold a sachet of suspect shabu (crystal meth) for P1,000 to an undercover agent.

He said the arresting team confiscated from the suspects possessions 14 sachets of suspected shabu, a weighing scale, two pieces of P500 marked money, and other prohibited drug paraphernalia.

He said the suspects were detained while appropriate charges are set to be filed against them.

3 rebels surrender in Zamboanga Del Sur

(PNA), JBP/PFN

MANILA, Sept. 5 (PNA) -- Due to dwindling support from the masses, three New People's Army (NPA) fighters surrendered to 53rd Infantry Battalion troopers in Guipos town, Zamboanga Del Sur Saturday morning.

This took place at 7:30 a.m. at 53rd Infantry Battalion headquarters in Camp Subido, Zamboanga Del Sur, said 1st Infantry Division spokesperson Lt. Col. Audie Mongao.

These returnees were identified as Erme Elnas, Anselma Perez Quijano, and Lodevico Jordan.

The rebels also surrendered their weapons which include a KG-45 sub-machine gun and .45 caliber pistol.

Mongao said that the surrender of the three was facilitated by the intelligence squad of the 53rd Infantry Battalion.

Mini-truck bumps boy in Cabaluay

A boy was rushed to a hospital after he was accidentally bumped by a 6-wheeler Bongo Type mini-truck along MCLL Highway, Barangay Cabaluay, this city, last week Thursday morning.

Police identified the victim as Merham Silbin y Isnani, a resident of Sitio Islamia, Cabaluay. He sustained multiple injuries on the head and body.

He was brought to Zamboanga City Medical Center (ZCMC) for medical attention by passersby in the area.

Report showed that the mini-truck driver identified as Jessie Gutoeres y Oclarit, a native of Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur immediately surrendered to Police Station 3 after the incident.

Initial investigation conducted by authorities showed that the color green Bongo Type truck bearing license plate number AAT-8790, driven by Gutoeres was travelling along MCLL Highway heading towards Barangay Sangali, this city.

Probers said upon reaching barangay Cabaluay, the victim suddenly crossed the road without sensing the approaching mini-truck that resulted to the incident.

The case is still under investigation while appropriate case is being readied against the driver in court. (Eugene A. Lasprilla)

Prevent crime, respect the rights of others, says PNP chief

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY, Sept. 3 (PIA) –“We must have to respect the rights of a person so that we may be able to prevent crime,” PSSupt. Sofronio P. Ecaldre, Zamboanga del Sur PNP provincial director underscored Monday, September 1, during the launching of the 21st National Crime Prevention Week held at the city hall grounds.

“We can prevent crime if we, the stakeholders, the community, the police and the government will work hand in hand and most importantly, respect the rights of each and every individual,” Ecaldre said.

He pointed out the PNP’s mission is to enforce the law, prevent and control crimes, maintain peace and order and ensure public safety and internal security with the active support of the community,back to back with its vision of working in partnership with the community towards the attainment of a safer place to live, work and do business.

“We recognize the fact that we cannot do our job in law enforcement and crime prevention without the support of the community.It has to be a shared responsibility,” the police chief stressed.

Ecaldre reported that crime volume in the province for the first semester of this year decreased by 32 percent, shooting incidence or crime committed by the use of firearm also declined by 25 percent and crimes against property or robbery registered at 48 percent lesser as compared to the same period in 2014.

Meanwhile, Zamboanga del Sur Vice Governor Juan A. Regala, who represented Governor Antonio H. Cerilles encouraged all stakeholders to have a teamwork towards crime prevention. “We need to be focused and with one vision,” he added, saying that “proper coordination is needed so that our force will be united and strong.”

“Every year we hold a launching program for Crime Prevention, and all of us know that this is everybody’s business. Each of us has a role to play. If we entrust everything to the PNP and the AFP, they will not be able to do all these things. That is why today, all sectors of the community including the non-government organizations (NGOs) are here, so that we will unite our forces against crime,” Regala underscored.

The launching program was spearheaded by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM-9) under Atty. Pablito Abad Jr, acting regional director in coordination with the city government of Pagadian led by Mayor Romeo P. Pulmones,attended by the officials and employees of national line agencies, NGOs, men in uniform, academe and barangay officials. (ALT/CAL/PIA-9) - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1351441257075/prevent-crime-respect-the-rights-of-others-says-pnp-chief#sthash.pEZKvUVT.dpuf

ZAMSURECO-I employees plant 1,200 seedlings in RM town

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

RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Zamboanga del Sur, Sept. 2 (PIA) – Officers and employees of Zamboanga del Sur Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ZAMSURECO-I) embarked on a tree-planting activity recently to show love and concern for the environment by planting some 1,200 mahogany seedlings at Area I – Sub-office compound in Barangay Switch, this municipality.

General Manager and chief executive officer Engr. Jose Raul A. Saniel encouraged employees of the electric cooperative to support environmental advocacy by taking care of the environment because the world is now experiencing global warming.

“The world has experienced extreme weather conditions such as more intense and long droughts, flooding in areas that were never flooded before in history due to climate change.” Saniel added.

He said global warming not only affects our country but the people as well.

The chief executive officer believes that planting more trees will be the most viable solution to the problem. “Planting more trees is the best solution to global warming because it will help reduce carbon emissions and purify the air,” he added.

“By planting trees, we invest for the future, and it is the most important investment for our mother earth,” Saniel stressed. He underscored the significance and benefits of planting a tree.

“Aside from the fact that it produces oxygen and removes carbon dioxide and contaminants from the air, the trees have many other social, economic, and environmental benefits,” he explained.

Saniel said the 1,200 mahogany seedlings they planted may seem very small in number but when these “plants will all grow, it will help save mankind.”

“We are not only planting trees but we are protecting them so that it will grow and survive for the generations to come,” Saniel concluded.

P6-M evacuation center in San Miguel town inaugurated

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

SAN MIGUEL, Zamboanga del Sur, Sept. 1 (PIA) – As part of its disaster preparedness and in response to Republic Act 101201, also known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction Management Act of 2010, the municipal government formally inaugurated its newly constructed evacuation center worth P6 million last week.

Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles led the ribbon cutting ceremonies with Ms. Emilia Vasquez-Julhajan, officer-in-charge of the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD)-9, Regional Director Sisinio Cano of the Department of Labor and Employment (D0LE)-9, Mayor Angelito Martinez II and other municipal officials.

Mayor Martinez said “the evacuation center is a multi-use, expedient facility which is not only aimed to provide shelter to people directly affected by an emergency, but also to cater to public events, activities and other significant undertakings of the town.

“The construction of the said building was mainly financed by local funds such as the five percent calamity fund and the 20 percent development fund with counterpart from DOLE’s TUPAD program of almost P1 million for the labor cost,” Martinez said.

Governor Cerilles lauded the municipality for its initiative of putting up the evacuation center, as he challenged the municipal officials to also make the necessary move for the establishment of a Regional Trial Court (RTC) building to attend to all the cases from the entire Baganian Peninsula, referring to the southern part of Zamboanga del Sur.

Meanwhile, Director Cano was also prodded by Governor Cerilles to help promote peace in San Miguel town by extending employment and livelihood support to the people in the area.

“We in the DOLE will give our all-out support to help our constituents here improve their living condition,” Cano promised.

For her part, Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-9 chief Emilia Vasquez-Julhajan said “this evacuation center is a very good example of a leadership in action, which means to say that your leader (Mayor Martinez) is looking after your future, your safety and the safety of your children’s children.”

“RA 101201 mandates everyone to be disaster resilient, and we from the OCD laud this very first evacuation center in the province. Hopefully there shall be more evacuation centers or alternate evacuation centers that would be put-up not only in San Miguel, but in all municipality in the province and in the region,” Julhajan added.

San Miguel was also awarded recently by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as a recipient of Seal of Good Local Governance for its commitment toward good local governance and for passing the local government assessment areas for the year 2014, namely, good financial housekeeping, disaster preparedness, business friendly and competitiveness, peace and order and environmental management.

Aside from the municipal officials, the said event was also attended by all the 28 barangay chairmen together with their respective barangay councilors.

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