Cagayan de Oro City News August 2016

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Cagayan de Oro City within Misamis Oriental

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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Cagayan de Oro City Public Market
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The river of cagayan de oro city
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St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral

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.
Limketkai Center Mall, Cagayan de Oro City.jpg
Flood Waters in the streets of Cagayan de Oro City
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Cagayan de Oro City Buildings
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Bus Terminal, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City

45 NorMin towns vie for seal of child friendly governance

By Recthie T. Paculba (RTP/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, August 31 (PIA) – From the 91 towns that complied with the Child Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA) in northern Mindanao, 45 towns have qualified to vie for the Seal of Child Friendly Local Governance (SCFLG) for 2015.

Delia Maravillosa of the Department of Social Welfare and Development-10 (DSWD) said that the latest turnout of CFLGA is commendable since there are only two municipalities in the region that have not submitted their audit during the desk review of the Regional Council for the Welfare of Children (RCWC) on August 30.

The 45 towns have scored 85 percent and above in the CFLGA, which generally rates the local government unit’s (LGU) program implementation for health, labor and education that promotes the welfare and well-being of children.

In Bukidnon, four towns have scored 85 percent and above in the CFLGA and these include Cabanglasan, Impasugong, Maramag and Talakag.

Camiguin has Guinsiliban, Mahinog and Sagay while eight towns in Lanao del Norte will qualify for the SCFLG that include Baloi, Kolambugan, Linamon, Magsaysay, Nunungan, Sapad, Sultan Naga Dimaporo and Tangcal.

Misamis Occidental has Ozamiz City, Tangub, Aloran, Baliangao, Bonifcaio, Calamba, Clarin, Jimenez, Lopez Jaena, Panaon, Plaridel, Sapang Dalaga, Sinacaban and Tudela.

Lastly, 16 towns in Misamis Oriental will vie for the SCFLG and these include El Salvador City, Gingoog City, Balingoan, Gitagum, Kinoguitan, Lagonglong, Laguindingan, Libertad, Lugait, Magsaysay, Manticao, Salay, Sugbongcogon, Talisayan, Villanueva and Cagayan de Oro City.

Other indicators for the CFLGA include the percentage reduction in deaths among under-five children, children under-six with below normal weights, and number of children victims of violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation and trafficking in persons.

The towns are also rated in the percentage increase in day care attendance and completion rate for elementary schooling as well as on the absence of child labor cases.

The safety measures for children in the community and schools are also observed aside from ensuring that the children’s rights to survival, development protection and participation are mainstreamed in the core development agenda of the LGU.

4ID receives new military vehicles

(4ID/PA)

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, Aug. 30 -- The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Philippine Army received a total of 43 KM450 1¼ ton troop carrier trucks and 10 KM 451 ambulance that will be issued to the units under 4ID.

This is part of the modernization program and the continuing mobility enhancement program of the Army and is a product of a Government-to-Government procurement between the Republic of the Philippines and South Korea.

A ceremonial blessing of the vehicles issued to Army units based in Region 10 was held at the 4ID Grandstand in Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City, August 30.

Meanwhile, those vehicles to be issued to units based in CARAGA region will be blessed and issued to the units after a similar ceremony at the 4th Infantry Division Advance Command Post in Butuan City.

The issuance of these vehicles suits the mobility requirements of the subordinate units of 4ID.

These vehicles can withstand the terrain and weather in the Division’s area of responsibility (AOR)—Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions, where troops are being deployed in the hinterlands and mountainous area for the Bayanihan Team Activities and Rescue and Relief Operations.

“The 4ID is very grateful for the arrival of these new military vehicles that will definitely support the accomplishment of the Command’s mission especially in undertaking peace and development and disaster response activities,” said Maj. Gen Benjamin R Madrigal Jr, 4ID commander.

He further said they are thankful for the support of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, their commander-in-chief, and the leadership of Department of National Defense-Armed Forces of the Philippines (DND-AFP) and the Army in the continuous effort for the AFP modernization program and the Army Transformation Roadmap.

Prior its distribution to the end users, a technical inspection has been made to ensure the completeness of parts and accessories to ensure that all are functioning and will not compromise the safety of our troops and the success of every mission.

“These military vehicles will be used in the campaign for peace and development in the AOR. Rest assured that our taxpayers, the people we are protecting in this part of Mindanao, will be glad to have an Army that is well equipped and could better serve them in any way necessary,” Maj. Gen. Madrigal added.

3rd International River Summit set November in Cagayan De Oro

(PNA), LAP/CD/MARK FRANCISCO

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Aug. 29 (PNA) -– All is set for the 3rd International River Summit in Cagayan de Oro this November.

The international river summit is held every two years in one host city for every edition. The first summit was held in Iloilo City and the second in Marikina.

This year, it will be the turn of Cagayan de Oro to host the gathering in this city where 1,292 persons died when the Cagayan River swelled in the middle of the night on December 16, 2011, flooding riverbank residential areas and throwing people asleep into the open sea.

Cagayan River is a major inland body of water in Mindanao with headwaters coming from the Kalatungan and Kitanglad mountain ranges of Bukidnon.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 10 Director Ruth M. Tawantawan said the November 24 to 26 conference at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel will focus mainly on the Cagayan River basin, but will inject inputs from international experts on the latest technology and research in river basin governance and management of watersheds and coastal areas.

“We will build a consensus that will address gaps in policy and program implementation of the river basin management and expand avenues for greater cooperation in finding sustainable solutions for development and environmental stewardship,” Tawantawan said.

She was quick to point out though that DENR will just act as secretariat in the convention because it is organized mainly by the non-government entity International River Foundation.

Originally founded in Brisbane in 2003, the International River Foundation has since moved its headquarters to the Philippines, assisting governments around the world in river basin management from the Danube River in Europe to the Mekong River in Southeast Asia and St. Johns River in the United States and many others.

Other issues to be discussed in the November summit this year will be resilience building in river management, integrating ecological services in policy and planning, biodiversity and ecosystem services and Philippine good practices in river management.

SM premier mall to open in Oro mid 2017

By Butch D. Enerio, Abigail Viguella

AN EXECUTIVE of SM Investments Corporation said by the middle of year 2017, the company will be opening its second premier mall in Mindanao, CDO 2 Premier mall, at CM Recto Avenue, Cagayan de Oro City.

Corazon Guidote, senior vice president of the SM Investors Corporation, said the newest mall in Mindanao is classified as a premier mall like that of the SM Lanang Premier of Davao City.

She said a Premier mall is superior to that of the other malls owned and operated by the SM Corporation in that it will not only be expected to cater the common consumer but will also be the hub of affluent buyers in Northern Mindanao.

"We are confident in choosing CDO as the next site for our Premier mall here in Mindanao because as everybody can see, it is the economic and cultural hub of investments, business, and opportunities in Northern Mindanao," Guidote said.

The Premier mall in Cagayan de Oro will have six floors and will have a gross floor area of about 174,399 square meters.

It will bring into the city more tenants and international brands than the other SM malls.

The Premier mall is expected to generate some 1000-1500 jobs for the Kagay-anons.

For the next two years, the SM Investments Corporation will also open their small food business format which it calls the Alpha Mart.

This small format food business is similar to a convenience store and sari-sari store.

"The Alpha Mart is now actually available in Luzon but is still being studied for construction and investment here in Mindanao and the Visayas regions. We are very optimistic though that this will also prove effective in the communities here in VisMin," said Tim Daniels, a consultant for the SM Investments Corporation.

Both executives said doing business in the Visayas and Mindanao has a lot of prospects owing to the robust growth as shown in the most recent data where the two regions contributed 26.9 percent to total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2014.

Visayas and Mindanao likewise compared well with Metro Manila’s as GDP per capita increased by 2.4 percent in Visayas and 5 percent in Mindanao last year.

"VizMin is a new growth region for SM where significant opportunities await investors. Its underserved markets are hungry for the kind of aspirational products and services that SM tends to bring into its development," Guidote said.

SM has earmarked between P70 to P80 billion every year in an aggressive expansion bid in the Philippines, fueled by the local economy’s strong momentum.

As a result of this capital commitment, SM further expanded its bottomline by 11 percent to P15 billion in consolidated net income in the first half of the year.

Guidote said the corporation is committed to expand outside of Metro Manila where there remained a huge potential for growth.

Vibrant colors filled Oro streets in 2016 Higalaay Festival

By Abigail Viguella

SLOWLY, the city of Cagayan de Oro has finally found its character when it comes to holding its feast. Rooted from its defined city of Golden Friendship character – Higalaay Festival was crafted.

In its month-long activities, it highlights the parade of floats and icons. Floats that go with the times and the icons that remind us of how the city evolved from its history to politics.

Vibrant colors filled the main thoroughfares as winners of the city carnival parade held on August 20 strutted on the streets beginning at Rodelsa Circle to the Limketkai mall grounds Saturday, August 27.

About 107 participants from various sectors joined the parade turning the traditional civic-military parade into lively and colorful one without compromising the customs.

City Mayor Oscar Moreno and Vice Mayor Rainier Joaquin Uy and the other city officials led the government agencies together with the contingent coming from the Philippine National Police and the fourth Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.

Of course, the parade had been made even lovelier as it showcased the 2016 Miss Cagayan de Oro winners and the other candidates.

Floats from various companies and organizations in the city also displayed their work of art. Concentrix Services Corporation whose float came out the champion was an apt symbol of the City of Golden Friendship as the golden-yellow smiling sun was spread on its float infecting the spectators of its warm smile. Palawan Pawnshop & Palawan Express Pera Padala garnered the first runner up while the Zonta club of Cagayan de Oro as second runner up.

The winner of the float parade competition got P100,000, the first runner up won P70,000 and the second runner up received P50,000.

The Department of Tourism regional director, Catalino "Butch" Chan thanked the organizers and participants for making the parade more festive this year.

Liceo Dragonoids, Iligan triumph Kagayhaan Gold Cup Dragon Boat competition

By Erwin Mascariñas

THE first Kagayhaan Gold Cup dragon boat competition held in Cagayan de Oro City last August 20 ended with an unexpected victory by Liceo de Cagayan University Dragonoids and Iligan City’s Team Bakunawa as part of the ongoing Higalaay Festival celebration.

The competition featured newcomers and veteran teams, racing down with grit and savvy at the Cagayan de Oro river as major sports attraction for the city’s fiesta revelry.

Host Liceo de Cagayan Dragonoids claimed three golds in five categories that they competed, followed by Team Bakunawa’s two.

Among the 13 teams from the different parts of Visayas and Mindanao that participated include the Liceo’s Junior Dragonoids, Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Blue Dragons from Butuan City, Dragons Del Sur, Hiraya Minokawa Dabaw and Team Kampilan from Davao City.

Cebu fielded Team Habagat Paramount and Team Kugtong, while Dipolog City sent in Dipolog Paddlers and Barangay Decayas Paddlers to go along with Bohol Paddlers-BIT and Tacloban Saltwater Dragons from Tacloban City.

The competition started early in the morning of August 20 with the time race of 2000 meters mixed category won by Liceo Dragonoids ahead of second-placer Hiraya Minokawa Dabaw and third-running Butuan FSUU Blue Dragons. Team Bakunawa ruled in 2000 meters, followed by Liceo Dragonoids and the Dicayas Paddlers.

The 200 meters for women gave Liceo Dragonoids another gold with Liceo’s junior counterparts taking the silver and Hiraya Minokawa Dabaw the bronze.

The Liceo Dragonoids sizzled again in 200m mixed category, followed by the Dipolog Paddlers and FSUU Blue Dragons. Team Bakunawa lorded it over in 200 meters Open ahead of the Dipolog Paddlers (silver) and Hiraya Minokawa Dabaw (bronze).

“I am really grateful that the different teams from the Visayas and Mindanao had accepted our invitation and help promote the sport here. Our heartfelt gratitude as well to all our partners who helped us made the event possible. It was a huge challenge but we pulled it through the support and motivation of everyone who believed in the goals of the whole event -- to promote friendship, peace, and a better world,” said Owen Jaen, race director.

Jean pointed out that he is looking forward into making the event an annual activity.

“I hope that the people have enjoyed the exciting races and will continue to patronize the upcoming dragon boat races in the city. I believe that if given the chance to continue, this will become an annual grand fiesta event that locals and visitors will look forward to and help in the city's efforts to promote tourism, sports and environmental awareness,” he said.

Equally ecstatic was Paul Andro C. Subere, 2016 Local Organization president of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Kagayhaan Gold.

“We are very happy about the outcome of the competition, we did not actually expect that much from the audience and spectators as we only expected dragon enthusiasts. But what we had was a bigger crowd and we saw several people even on the other side of the river with vehicles parked at the riverbank,” said Subere.

Subere is confident the event will continue next year.

“We are looking forward to doing it again hopefully next year but we have to see for the improvements after our overall evaluation. We are looking at better partnership with the city as well as bigger sponsors and partnerships in creating a better and bigger dragon boat event for next year. We’re also looking for ways to give bigger prizes for our participating teams as well as a safer viewing area for spectators on both sides of the river,” he said.

City hospital starts treatment of mentally-ill patient via ‘video conferencing’

By Mark Francisco [(PNA), RMA/CD/MARK FRANCISCO]

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Aug. 25 (PNA) - The city-owned hospital here has started treating a “schizophrenic” patient through “video conferencing,” Dr. Ramon Nery, the executive officer of the J.R. Borja General Hospital here said Thursday.

The “video conference” treatment, the first in the country, started Tuesday evening on the occasion of the JRBGH 53rd anniversary, Nery said.

He said that Dr. Reagan Joseph Villanueva, a Psychiatrist of the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City, conducted the “tele psychiatric” treatment on a 29-year-old female patient at the assigned holding room in the hospital.

Villanueva conducted a diagnostic video conference where both (Villanueva and the patient) exchange conversation,” Nery said.

He said that after the conversation with the patient, the Psychiatrist would talk to the hospital’s ward nurse to provide a medical prescription to the patient.

Nery said that the video conferencing was one of the best alternatives in the treatment of a mentally ill patient because there were only about 700 psychiatrists in the country.

If the project becomes highly successful, the JRBGH would introduce more remote tasking consultation like “tele dermatology” or “tele radiology,” Nery said.

According to Nery, the city government is now fast tracking the construction of a mental health facility at the JRBGH to cater to more mentally challenge patient in the future.

3-day national housing confab kicks off in Cagayan De Oro

(PNA), LAP/CD/JIGGER J. JERUSALEM

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Aug. 24 (PNA) –- The three-day convention of housing developers in the private and public sector kicked off here Wednesday with issues and concerns confronting the country’s housing industry on top of the agenda.

The 400-strong member Organization of Socialized and Economic Housing Development of the Philippines (OSHDP) spearheads this year’s 7th National Convention in collaboration with the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), organizers said.

George Richard Siton, OSHDP president, said that this year’s convergence of housing developers and stakeholders is expected to elicit resolutions and action points that would likely form part of the government’s legislative agenda on housing.

In a statement, the OSHDP said that the guests and resource persons from the government and private sectors would discuss current topics affecting the country’s housing industry.

The participants will also tackle the Philippine economy and property sector outlook, streamlining the permitting process/anti-red tape program and innovative financing of socialized housing.

One of the most interesting topics will focus on housing innovations such as “green” building and other initiatives, innovations in construction technology and innovative marketing approach.

Formed in 1995, the OSHDP seeks to promote the interest and welfare of socialized and low-cost housing developers, through the coordination with all sectors and stakeholders with the end in view of attaining viability in the housing industry and focusing efforts to provide shelter to the lower income segment of the population, the statement said.

Cocofed alumni group launches scholarship program

(XU Comm)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Cocofed Alumni Association of Xavier University has established an educational scholarship program to support a student in completing an agriculture degree from its College of Agriculture.

The program, officially known as “XU Cocofed Alumni Scholarship,” will grant financial assistance worth P50,000.00 per school year to cover the recipient’s tuition and school fees.

“We launched this scholarship as a way of paying forward the opportunities and privileges we received from the Cocofed (Philippine Coconut Producers Federation Inc.) program," said XU Cocofed Alumni Association president Sylvia Aguhob. "By doing so, we hope our scholars today will also do the same in the future, thus, creating opportunities for others."

The Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid (OSFA) is tasked to screen and endorse qualified applicants for the program, under the memorandum of agreement between XU and the Cocofed alumni group, signed earlier in July.

Aggie scholar

One bona fide aggie student of XU (who is in his/her sophomore year) will be awarded the said scholarship which will run for a period of three academic years.

An applicant for the said scholarship must have the following qualifications:

• a Filipino citizen, without pending immigration application to any foreign country;

• annual gross family income must not exceed three hundred thousand pesos;

• a bona fide student enrolled in XU’s College of Agriculture;

• in good mental, physical, and emotional health;

• not have been the subject of any disciplinary action;

• in good scholastic standing; and

• enrolled in a regular load of the course at the time of the award of the grant.

Giving back

The Philippine Coconut Producers Federation Inc. or commonly known as “Cocofed” has subsidized the National College Scholarship Grant Program which has supported more than 20,000 scholars nationwide since its inception in 1975.

Over 2,000 Cocofed scholars coming from various parts of Mindanao have graduated from XU.

“This project is important to our group. The scholarship fund came from the contributions of former scholars whose lives have improved through the opportunities provided for by the Cocofed scholarship program and their Xavier education,” said Aguhob.

The PAASCU-accredited College of Agriculture of XU offers seven undergraduate programs, namely, BS in Animal Science, Agricultural Engineering, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Crop Science, Development Communication, and Food Technology.

“This project is also geared towards uplifting the agriculture industry, thus, the qualified scholar should be enrolled in an agriculture course. Our agricultural sector needs competent professionals, especially for the coconut industry,” added Aguhob, who is also a faculty member of the Food Technology department of XU.

Upon completion of an agriculture degree, the scholar must practice his/her profession in the Philippines for at least a year.

Aguhob sees the generosity of fellow Cocofed alumni in Mindanao as a vital component to sustain this scholarship endeavor of their association.

“Our group calls for the support from other alumni of Cocofed in hopes to fund more agriculture students in the years to come. There are efforts by some of our members to invest in a coconut-related business to help sustain this project.”

For more information on the XU Cocofed Alumni Scholarship, visit XU - Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid or send an email to osfa@xu.edu.ph.

CDO Ecological Solid Waste Mgmt sets 2019 goals

By Wilson J. Hormeguera (WJH/XU Comm)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, August 22 -- The technical working group of the Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM) of the city government of Cagayan de Oro has laid out its 2019 goals during the planning workshop facilitated by Xavier University’s Governance and Leadership Institute (GLI) on August 9.

The City ESWM-TWG’s vision of having a “clean” city with “disciplined and responsible” Kagay-anons by 2019 can be achieved through the following strategic goals: (1) Strengthened community participation; (2) Strict implementation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 (RA 9003); (3) Active barangay governance; (4) Sustainable ESWM programs; and (5) massive information and education campaign on ecological solid waste management, ranging from household to city levels.

“The need now is giving special attention to enabling barangay governance in the management of solid waste in the city,” ESWM focal person Elvisa Mabilin.

The City ESWM-TWG is composed of the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Offices, City Health Office, City Planning and Development Office, City Engineers Office, City Public Services Office, City Information Office, CDO Liga ng mga Barangay, CDO Mangaycayay Landfill Association, CDO Junkshop Association, Balay Mindanao, Mindanao University of Science and Technology, Liceo de Cagayan University, and XU through its Social Development cluster's Advocacy Program and Green Campus Agenda.

XU president Fr. Roberto C. Yap SJ, who is also an environmental economist, serves as the chairman of the City ESWM Board.

Cogon Market renovation given green light

By Alwen Saliring

THE Cagayan de Oro City Council has given the P17 million budget for the total renovation of Cogon public market the green light with rehabilitation work set to begin later this year, councilor Ian Mark Nacaya said.

Nacaya, who chairs the economic enterprises committee, said the allocation is covered under the supplemental budget approved by the City Council last week.

The project will begin from the rehabilitation of the drainage system and re-sectioning of stalls inside the three-floor public market.

“Unahon nato ang drainage system aron nga dili na mag-stagnate ang tubig gikan sa wet market ug aron nga dili na mag-weekly declogging ilabi na kung mag-ulan,” Nacaya said.

Based on the initial plan designed by the engineering division of City Economic Enterprises Department (CEED), the food and snack section will be placed in the food court.

The city government's intention to overhaul all city's public markets is aimed at making these public markets competitive with big malls and grocery stores in the city.

“Himoon nato nga parehas sa mga malls ang food court kanang naay lamesa sa tunga,” Nacaya said.

Nacaya said City Hall is also planning to improve the ventilation of the market to ensure comfort and convenience to shoppers.

Nacaya also said the City Government is visualizing public markets not only a market of goods and services but also as facilities where customers can enjoy shopping and buying grocery items.

The Economic Enterprises Committee is aiming to finish the overhauling within six to eight months.

After the whole design and program of works are completed with recommendation from the engineering department, Nacaya said bidding for the project’s next phase will commence.

“One to two months ang design and estimate program of works another month for the bidding process and within six to eight months ma accomplish na paspasan nato,” Nacaya said.

Nacaya said the committee will make sure that vendors in the market will understand the whole plan and vision of the City Government to better serve the public.

The committee is set to conduct a dialogue with the vendors.

Nacaya said the City Government recognizes that vendors who pay the government should be given better facilities for the latter to provide better services to consumers.

“Makig-istorya ta with the vendors para walay resistance kanang makasabot sila. We aim nga hayahaya ilang pagbaligya and pag-occupy as stall holders/renters sa government spaces,” Nacaya.

“We will make sure nga walay dapigan ug walay pinalabi ang kagamhanan sa mga kausaban,” Nacaya added.

Nacaya said the committee is set to inspect other public markets in the city to prepare for the next step of development planning.

DTI holds business and consumers’ forum in Oro

By Abigail Viguella

THE regional office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-10) held its ‘Negosyso, Konsyumer at iba pa (NKATBP)’ dubbed "One DTI Services" at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel on August 17 to 19.

Seen as a means to raise awareness especially among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) about the NKATBP program delved on the so called the four pillars of the 2011-2016 SME Development Plan--an enabled business environment, access to finance, access to market, and productivity and efficiency.

On the first day, DTI launched a Negosyo Center and unveiled the Fab Lab Mindanao at the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) to give local designers and entrepreneurs the opportunity to avail of an advanced prototyping and fabrication Shared Service Facility (SSF) of DTI.

Simultaneously in Cagayan de Oro City, DTI-Northern Mindanao conducted trainings and learning sessions on "Expanding Business through E-Commerce and E-Services" which tackled the pros and cons of the application of technology in business.

Sessions on consumers’ rights and responsibilities as stated in the Consumer Act of the Philippines were also tackled in the sessions.

The Northern Mindanao leg will be highlighted with the conduct of the Kahimunan Regional Trade Fair, Diskwento Caravan, and seminars catering to Food Safety Awareness for MSMEs and Investment Briefing on Policies & Procedures for the Availment of Board of Investment Incentives which will all be directed as part of the NKATBP program.

“Now that one of the focuses of the new administration is the uplifting of the economy especially in the international stage, it is important for us to make programs that will encourage more and more SMEs and even the youth to do business. This initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry to bring their services in one setting Is a move forward to this aim.” Zenaida Maglaya, the Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary said.

Negosyo, Konsyumer ATBP were already conducted in Davao City and Isabela City, Vigan City, Cebu City, Tacloban City, Legazpi City, Baguio City, Angeles City and General Santos City. The program will further run in all regions of the country until December 2016.

Kahimunan 2016 opens

By Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat (JMOR/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, August 19 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) region 10 opens its annual regional trade fair dubbed ‘Kahimunan 2016’ in Cagayan de Oro City on 19 August 2016 and will run up to the 29th as part of the major activities for City Fiesta dubbed ‘Higalaay.’

DTI Assistant Secretary for Regional Operations Group Blesila A. Lantayona says Kahimunan showcases the abundance of Northern Mindanao featuring its five provinces.

DTI’s mandate from President Rodrigo Duterte she said to help the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and ensure that there is no corruption. In fact, the new DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez is not new to the industry. Lantayona said the Secretary is affiliated with Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship, Go Negosyo, having a big heart for small business.

Most of Kahimunan MSME exhibitors are recipient of Shared Service Facility (SSF) project of DTI. SSF aims for MSME’s better access to technology and equipment to achieve competitiveness.

Successful SSF stories of region 10 include Misamis Oriental Multi Fiber Cluster as beneficiary of nine units heavy duty high speed sewing machine turned over to its members. Since then, production of quality Sinamay handbags have tripled and sales doubled resulting to more market options locally and abroad.

Hineleban Coffee of Malaybalay in Bukidnon produces Robusta and Arabica coffee were provided with roaster, grinder and sealer.

Also, winner for best SSF project nationwide was the coco sugar product of Linabu Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LAMPCO) in Balingasag Misamis Oriental. They were provided with Pulveriser equipment to eliminate the problem of granules. Now, LAMPCO produces coco sugar with finest quality and has become pride of Northern Mindanao.

Meanwhile, Fabrication Laboratory (FABLAB) in Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute Technology (MSU –IIT) has just launched and is open to students, entrepreneur to help transform their ideas to designs to prototypes. This will help execute ideas and see them before going full blast in the market.

Also, Northern Mindanao Food Innovation Center in Cagayan de Oro City located at Mindanao University of Science and Technology (MUST) is a technology hub of research and development and support service to food industry in Northern Mindanao.

Northern Mindanao according to Lantayona has maximized collaboration. Further, product development, need of trade fairs are strategies to ensure MSMEs have avenues to promote their products, face to face meetings with clients, learn current markets and opportunities and generate sales.

She said they are also promoting e-commerce and to take advantage of millenials and ICT in promoting these products.

Lastly, she said important for an entrepreneur is ease of doing business and Cagayan de Oro is one of pilot areas for ease of doing business.

CDO approves added funds for econ enterprise dep’t

(ALR-CIO/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The City Economic Enterprise Department (CEED) of the city government of Cagayan de Oro targets to provide orderly and clean market for sellers and buyers after the approval of an additional funding for the sector.

Part of the P1.18B supplemental budget is the P17 million funding for the augmentation of the CEED.

In line with this, the city government is set to implement the rehabilitation of Cogon Market where the re-sectioning of the food and cafeteria will be prioritized.

“Himuon nga food court aron ma-experience sa mga vendor ug buyer ang mall type nga merkado (This will be made as a food court so that the vendors and buyers will experience a mall type market),” said Councilor Ian Nacaya, CEED chairman.

Nacaya recently strolled around the market to determine the things that should be included in the rehabilitation.

Part of the rehabilitation plan is the repair of drainage systems and canals in Cogon Market as well as the ventilation of the area.

The plans set by the CEED is highly supported by City Mayor Oscar Moreno.

City hospital to launch Telepsychiatry

(ACM-CIO/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, August 17 – With the aim to provide attention to persons with mental illness in Cagayan de Oro city, the JR Borja General Hospital (JRBGH) will launch the Telepsychiatry on August 23.

The Telepsychiatry is one of the priorities of the city government implemented through Dr. Ramon Nery, JRBGH chief executive officer, and the heads of the hospital so the city will have its own way to help those mentally-ill persons who became nomads.

The Telepsychiatry is a way to provide psychiatric assessment and attention through telecommunications and video conferencing. Obtaining such will only means that the city no longer needs to send the patients to other cities to have them checked by the doctors since this could already be done through video conferencing.

The launching of Telepsychiatry is one of the activities of the 53rd anniversary celebration of the JRBGH on August 25.

The ceremonial turn-over of the breastfeeding equipment and Gift of Sight Program of the JRBGH will also be held.

CCS Knights qualify to City Division Meet

(Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro)

COMEBACKING Knight from Manila, PJ Floirendo and regular mainstay Khen Caduyac on Friday powered Corpus Christi to a pulsating 78-75 win over the hard-fighting St. Mary's School Fiat in the 2016 Cagayan de Oro South District Meet basketball qualifier at the Nazareth gym here.

The former Mapua Institute of Technology standout Floirendo, who just recovered from back injury, and Caduyac struck hard with a combined 23 including crucial points in the overtime period to help the CCS Knights advance in the coming City Division Meet.

"Pasalamat ko kay Lord kay medyo okay na akong likod nga nabikil adtong sa Manila pa ko gadula with Mapua," the good-looking Floirendo told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro.

The SMS Fiat of coach Rene Ilogon were still very much in contention when Caduyac unloaded a 3-point basket, a perimeter jumper and a twinner by Floirendo.

"Patsada nga dula. Breaks of the game lang gyod nagdaug," said CCS head coach Carlomagno Dagalea.

The CCS Knights also drew 14 points from Luc Ashton Artazo with Max Anton Mutia and Rey Moses Galua with a collective 12 points.

The SMS Fiat could have won the game in regulation. But forward Justin Ycaro, who fished a foul from Floirendo while making an attempt from the 3-point area, converted just two of his three gift shots, thus forcing a 5-minute extension period. (LLS with JJF reports)

MASS-SPEC assets breach P30 billion

By Abigail Viguella

THE Mindanao Alliance of Self-Help Societies-Southern Philippines Educational Cooperative Center (MASS-SPECC) announced during the celebration of its 50th anniversary at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel last August 9 that its official current assets has breached P30 Billion.

"We believe that cooperativism is very relevant here in the Philippines now more than ever because of the number of entities that are willing to take part," Dr. Evelia Satur, MASS SPECC chairperson, said.

MASS-SPECC currently has a total of 125 member cooperatives and over one million individual members in the Mindanao area alone.

"We believe that by reaching 30B worth of assets, cooperativism is doing its own part in lifting the economy especially here in Mindanao," said Bernadette Toledo, chief executive officer of MASS-SPECC.

With its golden anniversary, MASS-SPECC hopes to improve its services to its members through the digitalization of the profiles of its members.

"Because we believe that it is only through technology that we will be able to help and protect our members more," added Toledo.

The executive members of the cooperative also discussed about the possible tax exemption of cooperatives.

As of the moment, the Senate is requiring cooperatives in the country to come up with their position on the issue of tax exemptions in cooperatives.

"We are positive that with the coming of the new administration, the issue of tax exemptions in cooperatives will finally be resolved. For now, all we have to do is to gather data about our members through reaching out to them with the aid of technology," Satur said.

Viguella: Frame of Mind

By Abigail Viguella

TO SHOW off the prowess and grandeur of northern Mindanaoan visual art, the Memento Art Group – a group of Mindanao artists – holds an exhibit themed “Frame of Mind” which is part of the Higalaay Festivities began on August 12 till 29 at Limketkai Center.

The art exhibit features emerging and established artists from parts of Northern Mindanao including Pagadian and Butuan cities and Iligan, Bukidnon, and Cagayan de Oro.

The participating artists are Nick Aca, Ryan Carreon Aragon, Find Abragan, Melissa Abuga-a, Bada, Leticia Bajuyo, Michael Bacol, Mark Bailo, Leonil Bagayna, Archie Blanco, Mariegold Cherie, Hanry Cocos, Romy Cocos, Bo Daclan, Edzon Dela Cruz, Tzaddi Esguerra, Farrah Estabaya, Nonoy Estarte, Christine Fajardo, Oca Floirendo, Jacinto Geronimo Jr., Chris Gomez, Michelle Lua, Kurt Lluch, Jen Morales, Emmanuel Mulawan, June Murcilla, Jan Pagaringan, Boyet Ramoso, Jean Claire Razo, Kelly Ramos, Jude Redoble, Maila Secuban, Jojo Sescon, Frejaneh Timogan, Charlie Tutanes, and Jake Vamenta.

The exhibition is headed by renowned Kagay-anon artist Chris Gomez who invited many young and talented visual artists to participate in the “Frame of Mind.”

"The Frame of Mind art exhibit is open to Northern Mindanao artists from a wide range of artistic backgrounds such as painting, installation or sculpture. We welcome artists to showcase their latest works and provide new possibilities for those who are looking to broaden their artistic career and exhibition background,” Gomez explained.

The Higalaay Festival is a good time for the artists to showcase their artworks as thousands of people and art enthusiasts will be able to experience Northern Mindanaoan art.

The Exhibit further aims to be a call for Mindanaoan art to be appreciated more not only locally but also nationwide in new level with its exposure to tourists and critics.

Assoc, university call for applications to 2016 CDO Writing Clinic

(PIA)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Nagkahiusang Magsusulat sa Cagayan de Oro (NAGMAC), in partnership with the Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts (XCCA), is now accepting applications to the 2016 Cagayan de Oro (CDO) Writing Clinic to be held at the XCCA Conference Room, 3/F Museo de Oro, Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan.

The writing clinic is subdivided into four literary genres — Poetry Clinic (18 September), Fiction Clinic (16 October), Literary Essay Clinic (20 November), and Drama Clinic (11 December).

The CDO Writing Clinic is an annual literary fellowship for 24 of the most promising up-and-coming poets, fictionists, essayists, and playwrights born and/or based in Northern Mindanao.

Six fellowships are available per genre — poetry, fiction, literary essay, and drama. (Applicants may apply for more than one genre.)

Manuscripts may be in Binisaya, Tagalog, and/or English. Entries should contain 4 poems, 2 short stories, 2 literary essays (creative nonfiction, personal/lyric essays, travel narratives, or memoirs), or 1 one-act play. These should be applicants' original and unpublished works.

Applicants should not have been fellows to the CDO Writers Workshops or any regional and national writers workshops.

The writing clinic will include critiquing sessions and other parallel activities to be facilitated by NAGMAC's senior writers.

Accepted fellows will be provided with a certificate, lunch, and snacks. (There is no registration fee but fellows will shoulder their own transportation to and from the venue.)

Electronic copies (preferably in .docx/.doc format, Garamond font 12) of the manuscript may be emailed to nagmac.submissions@gmail.com with the subject Genre_CDO Writing Clinic (example, Fiction_CDO Writing Clinic). On the email's body, include the full name, address (city/town and province in the region), institutional affiliation (workplace and/or school), mobile number, and a short bio note (150-300 words in the third person). (XU Comm)

The author's name should not appear on the manuscript.

Deadlines for submission are 31 August (for poetry and fiction) and 30 September (for literary essay and drama).

All inquiries must be directed to NAGMAC's official Facebook page.

Bosch bullish on Oro

By Abigail Viguella

THE Bosch technological supply services company inaugurates its new business hub in Cagayan de Oro City located at the Neo Arcade Building in Barangay Gusa on Friday, August 5.

Bosch’s Marketing Manager Andrew Powell expressed his excitement with the opening of their fourth business hub here in the Philippines.

“We know that the city needs partners at this particular time because of the vision of transforming Mindanao into an economic powerhouse within the Philippines. Our presence in CdeO enables us to take active participation in the exciting growth opportunities in the region,” Powell said.

Powell introduced the different divisions of Bosch that will ensure quality services and products for its customers. With a city population nearing 700,000, the demand for motor vehicles in the region has risen steadily alongside an ongoing property development boom.

The Automotive Aftermarket division of the company will help ensure road-worthiness of vehicles plying the roads of Cagayan de Oro while the Power Tools division provides the construction equipment and the Security Systems division ensures safety of premises through fire, intrusion, and surveillance systems.

In terms of the progressiveness of local government, Cagayan de Oro ranked seventh out of 1,300 local government units across the Philippines in the annual Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index in 2016.

In the same survey, Cagayan de Oro placed fourteenth in Economic Dynamism, sixth in Government Efficiency, and tenth in Infrastructure.

In recent years, Cagayan de Oro has emerged as a bustling commercial center marked by the entry of several BPO companies, auto dealerships, residential and hotel properties, malls, and lifestyle brands.

It is the region’s vibrant agricultural and industrial sector that serves as the hallmark of CDO’s contribution to the national economic development agenda.

Commencing operations in 2015, the Drive and Control business division will benefit the industrial segment in CDO through its hydraulic and factory automation technologies. Innovations from this business division can help improve the production efficiency of food processing plants, as well as heavy industries such as steel manufacturing, biofuel, and sugar milling.

“The opening of the Cagayan business hub is part of Bosch’s efforts to expand its footprint in the Philippines. Our objective is to establish closer proximity to customers, and this is exactly what we achieved after we opened our business hubs in Cebu and Davao. Along with our expansion efforts in the country, I am confident that our strength in innovation will continue to differentiate us and strengthen our customers’ confidence in our solutions,” Powell said.

DTI to hold Negosyo, Konsyumer at Iba Pa in Northern Mindanao

(PNA), LGI/KMC

MANILA, Aug. 10 (PNA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will bring "Negosyo, Konsyumer at Iba Pa" (NKATBP) program in Northern Mindanao from August 17 to 19.

NKATBP delivers DTI’s services directly to businesses and consumers under one roof.

The agency’s services for businesses under the NKATBP include the four pillars of 2011-2016 Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Development Plan: enabling business environment, access to finance, access to market and productivity and efficiency.

The department will conduct trainings and learning sessions on Expanding Business through E-Commerce and E-Services, Standard Blitz and Consumer Forum in Cagayan de Oro City.

DTI will also hold Kahimunan Regional Trade Fair, Diskwento Caravan and seminars in food safety awareness for micro enterprises and SMEs as well as an investment briefing on policies and procedures to avail incentives in the Board of Investments.

A Negosyo Center and a fabrication laboratory in Iligan Institute of Technology-Mindanao State University will be launched by DTI.

For consumers, DTI aims to boost the awareness of consumers in Northern Mindanao on their rights and ensuring quality goods and services.

To date, DTI has conducted NKATBP in nine cities nationwide including Davao City, Isabela City, Vigan City, Cebu City, Tacloban City, Legazpi City, Baguio City, Angeles City and General Santos City.

Writing clinic in Oro to open in September

By Abigail Viguella

TO PUT focus on the up and coming literary geniuses of Northern Mindanao, the Nagkahiusang Magsusulat sa Cagayan de Oro (Nagmac), in partnership with the Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts (XCCA), holds the very first Cagayan de Oro Writing Clinic which will be held at the Museo de Oro at Xavier University from September to December, 2016.

"We are doing this of course, to emphasize the talents of writers here in Northern Mindanao especially those who are still taking baby steps in this field. Also, we want to campaign the art of creative writing here in our area," said Alton Melvar Dapanas, the Nagmac operations director and a senior fellow for poetry and essay.

The writing clinic is composed of four division clinics which will all be held at separate dates. The four divisions are the Poetry Clinic on September 18, the Fiction Clinic on October 18, the Literary Essay Clinic on November 20 and the Drama Clinic on December 11.

“For all entries in each division the panelists, will select only six entries which will be evaluated and discussed in every meeting, ”Dapanas explained.

The writing clinic will include critiquing sessions and other parallel activities to be facilitated by Nagmac's senior writers who will also be the panelists of the event.

Manuscripts may be in Binisaya, Tagalog, and/or English and they should contain 4 poems, 2 short stories, 2 literary essays (creative nonfiction, personal/lyric essays, travel narratives, or memoirs), or 1 one-act play. These should be the applicants' original and unpublished work.

The applicants though should not have been fellows to the CDO Writers Workshops or any regional and national writers’ workshops.

Electronic copies (preferably in .docx/.doc format, Garamond font 12) of manuscripts may be emailed tonagmac.submissions@gmail.com with the subject Genre_CDO Writing Clinic (example, Fiction_CDO Writing Clinic).

On the email's body, include the full name, address (city/town and province in the region), institutional affiliation (workplace and/or school), mobile number, and a short bio note (150-300 words in the third person). The name of the applicant should not be seen within the manuscript itself.

The deadlines for the submission of manuscripts are on August 31 for the Poetry clinic and the Fiction clinic and September 30 for the Drama clinic and the Literary Essay clinic.

Nagmac is home to established and up-and-coming writers of poetry, fiction (short stories and novels), literary essays (creative non-fiction, new journalism, memoirs, narrative history, travelogues, and lyric essays), plays, and screenplays in Northern Mindanao. Primarily, it organizes activities and formulates initiatives that promote the enrichment of local literature and creative writing and bring these to a larger audience of arts enthusiasts.

The community aims to serve a growing community of budding writers with workshops, crash courses, and peer-critiquing sessions that teach craft, foster creativity, and enable writers, regardless of their background or experience, to attain literary excellence and to achieve their full writing potential. Also, it aspires to lead a cultural change in the sphere of literary arts through initiating a demand for writers, legitimizing an artistic community, and institutionalizing artistic appreciation and development. All of these are aimed at paving the way for a new-wave literary movement in the region that that will further assert Northern Mindanaoan.

Nagmac acknowledges the traditions of Northern Mindanaoan literary proponents such as Jaime An Lim, Rogelio F Garcia, Jr., Christine Godinez-Ortega, Zola Gonzalez-Macarambon, Raul Moldez, Myrna Peña-Reyes, Lina Sagaral-Reyes, Ametta Suarez-Taguchi, Telesforo Sungkit, Jr, Anthony Tan, Ma. Elena Paulma, and Arlene Yandug.

PNVSCA, CHED call for entries to Volunteerism Story Writing contest

By Apipa Bagumbaran (APB/PIA-10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – Do you have a story that features the experiences and contributions of volunteers to sustainable development?

The Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVCSA) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) invites you to join the Volunteerism Story Writing Contest with the theme “Volunteering for Sustainable Development.”

The contest aims to engage the youth in discovering and narrating the diverse experiences of people and organizations that render volunteer services for community empowerment and sustainable development.

It also seeks to highlight volunteerism as a strategy in the achievement of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in support to the Philippines’ commitment to the global development priorities.

The contest is open to undergraduate college/university students who have completed or are currently taking the National Service Training Program (NSTP).

Each participant shall choose one Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) and write a feature article on an individual or group/organization whose volunteer work is aligned with the achievement of the chosen SDG.

One winner will be selected in each region to help showcase the volunteering stories in different areas of the country. Regional winners will receive P3,000.

Entry forms and the contest mechanics can be downloaded at PNVSCA’s website www.pnvsca.gov.ph and Facebook page www.facebook.com/innovatecooperateinspire or at CHED website www.ched.gov.ph.

The deadline for the submission of entries is on 31 August 2016.

Hakab Na: Global synchronized breastfeeding in Oro

By Pamela Jay F. Orias

MORE than a hundred mothers trooped Saturday to Limketkai Mall in Cagayan de Oro City to participate what could be the biggest global synchronized breastfeeding to promote its importance and lobby support from the community.

With their babies clutched on to their shoulders, some 186 mothers made history as they were able to feed their babies at the same time at about 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 6.

The figure is higher than last year which was only participated by 120 mothers.

"We are happy with the response of our mothers, murag nagka-anam na ug spread ang awareness about the event which aims to promote breastfeeding," Nadine Angelina Casiño said, founder of Modern Nanays of Mindanao.

Casiño pointed out that breastfeeding should be made a normal practice for mothers as this would help boost the child's immunity and healthy wellbeing.

"Ang gatas sa pag-breastfeed mao gayud dapat kini ang pagkaon sa bata, ug dili kadtong mga gatas na na-commercialized. (Breastmilk should be fed to babies instead of those commercialized milk.) If only mothers know the benefits of breastfeeding, I'm sure they would choose this practice, kaya ang kulang pa kita ug awareness," Casiño said.

Instead of shaming mothers for breastfeeding in public places, Casiño said the community should show support and not objectify women for displaying their breasts.

"Imong i-shame ang mama nga naghatag kung unsa lang ang maayo para sa iyang anak pero dili nato ikaulaw magtan-aw ug mga naka-bikini, mga sexy nga mga model, ang mama na hinuon nga gibuhat ang tanan para sa iyang bata," she said.

"Suportaan dapat nato kay dili kini siya taboo, ug mao ni siya ang normal nga pamaagi para pakan-on ang bata," she added

Casiño also called on establishments to respect the law that mandates them to create lactating station.

Dubbed as "Hakab Na" or "The Big Latch On," the event involved groups of breastfeeding women coming together at registered locations around the world to “latch on” their kids at a certain time.

All of the children are latched on for one minute at the set time and were counted by witnesses and the recorded figure were added to a global total to see if it can beat the previous year’s Big Latch On record.

Core events for city fiesta

(JBD/CDO Legislative Information)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – The City Fiesta Committee has lined up several activities for the forthcoming fiesta celebration of Cagayan de Oro.

Councilor Jay R. Pascual, chair of the City Council committee on tourism, reported during the 5th regular session Monday presided over by Vice Mayor Raineir Joaquin V. Uy that the committee had already approved the core events for the annual celebration.

These include the Higalaay Garden Show and Higalaay Agri-Fair, which was opened on August 2 at Duaw Kagay-an Park and Gaston Park.

One of the main events for the celebration of city fiesta is the coronation night of Miss Cagayan de Oro 2016 which will be held at The Atrium, Limketkai Center.

Other core events are the Mindanao Fashion Summit at Rotunda, Limketkai Center, Kumbira at Atrium, Kahimunan Regional Trade Fair 2016 at SM, Cowboy Festival at P.N Roa, Upper Carmen, and the Higalaay Street Parade and Floats.

Also included in the list of events is the Fluvial Procession from Macajalar Bay to Cagayan de Oro River-Duaw Kagay-an Park.

There will also be a Centrio Bisperas Fireworks Display on August 27 at 8:00 p.m. at Duaw Kagay-an Park.

As this developed, Councilor Pascual urged all Kagay-anons to take part of the said events highlighting the celebration of the Feast of Saint Augustine.

PhilHealth expects rise in health coverage in Northern Mindanao

(PNA), LAP/CD/MARK FRANCISCO

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Aug. 5 (PNA) -– Philippine Health officials on Friday said they expect a rise in the number of beneficiaries to complement the increase in the number of listed welfare beneficiaries in Northern Mindanao.

Allan G. Panolong, head of the PhilHealth operation in the region, said that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Northern Mindanao has released a figure totaling 485,539 beneficiaries considered as “poor families.”

He said that the PhilHealth would start to analyze the submitted database of the poor in order to prioritize those eligible for the government sponsored PhilHealth coverage.

Masiding M. Alonto, Jr., PhilHealth regional vice president, said that 92 percent of the families listed under the DSWD’s database of the poor were already covered by the government’s health care program.

“We are now targeting the coverage of the remaining nine percent of the country’s poorest of the poor,” Alonto said.

Alonto said that the PhilHealth is putting up more business centers in Northern Mindanao in order to cope with the demands and the monitoring of health members.

He said that 15,000 employers in Northern Mindanao were covered by the state-owned government health program.

Alonto said that monitoring the 15,000 employers under the government’s health program is not an easy job for PhilHealth personnel.

“Basically, the PhilHealth business centers receive membership, claims verification, and accounts monitoring services,” Alonto said.

Modern nanays gear up for Hakab Na 2016

By Recthie T. Paculba (RTP/PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – The Modern Nanays of Mindanao (MNM) urges mothers, fathers and families to be part of Hakab Na 2016 on August 6, 9:00 a.m. in Cagayan de Oro.

Hakab Na is the country’s celebration of the Global Big Latch On slated annually in August.

Sarah Jean P. Tangonan of MNM said that the campaign aims to protect, promote and support breastfeeding as well as to encourage and support communities to make breastfeeding a normal part of day to day life and identify opportunities to provide ongoing support for all families.

In the event, mothers will simultaneously breastfeed their babies and toddlers in different locations all over the world.

Tangonan also added that the participants for the simultaneous breastfeeding event have dramatically increased from 87 in 2013, 120 in 2015 and for this year, there are around 300 interested mothers who signed up online for the event.

Aside from the big latch on, Hakab Na 2016 will also tackle topics on atopic dermatitis and baby skin care, myth buster, basic life support for babies, and effects of formula milk to the baby and the microbiome.

The MNM will also award the winners for the photo and video contest that is anchored on the theme, “A million ways why breastfeeding is best.”

The MNM is a group of mothers who advocate breastfeeding, baby wearing and cloth-diapering lifestyle. It’s a group of stay-at-home moms and working moms, pediatricians, obstetricians, advocates and families that aims to help mommies and families during the difficult times of raising infants and toddlers.

Philhealth opens Carmen branch

By Abigail Viguella

PHILIPPINE Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) recently opened its new business office along Max Suniel Street in Barangay Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City.

According to Philhealth regional vice president and area vice president for Mindanao Datu Masiding Alonto, the opening of the new branch just beside the Carmen Jollibee restaurant is significant as Carmen is the biggest barangay in Cagayan de Oro City.

“We chose barangay Carmen because it is the biggest barangay in Cagayan de Oro with over 25 percent of the city population are living here,’’ he said.

He added that this branch is Philhealth’s way of giving out more accessible government services especially for those who are really in need of it and further the interest of the government.

Alonto said that the new branch will also cater services especially memberships and premium contributions except for payments.

Present during the opening ceremony are the company’s chief of Field Operations lawyer Allan Panolong and Ma. Rhodesia Monsanto, the chief of Management Services Division.

Alonto also announced that more branches all over the city can still be expected for the next couple of months as they are trying to build their Northern Mindanao coverage from 80 percent to 100 percent.

“This is of course part of our mission to continue providing universal membership," Alonto added.

Solon files bill creating ‘Mindanao Railways’

(PNA), PGL/CD/MARK FRANCISCO

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Aug. 2 (PNA) -- Senator Edgardo Angara has filed a proposed Senate Bill that would create a corporate railway system in Mindanao designed to perk up economic development in the Southern Philippine island.

In a press statement sent to the local media Tuesday, Angara said that Senate Bill 137 calls for the creation of a state-owned Mindanao Railways Corporation (MindaRail), tasked to lay the groundwork in building a railway in Mindanao.

In his explanatory note, Angara said that locomotives would propel Mindanao’s progress.

The railway “is also a driver for peace because as communities become interconnected, economies are linked, growth spreads and travel brings cultural exchanges,” he said.

Under the proposal, the MindaRail would have an authorized capital stock of Php1 billion, with an 11-person board, all appointed by the President. It will have its offices in Davao City.

Angara said that the train service would be capable of ferrying people and cargoes for the island’s agriculture product, which is worth Php500 billion a year.

The operation of MindaRail would link the island’s urban centers and growth corridors, which were 500 miles apart from each other, such as the cities of Davao, General Santos, Butuan, Cagayan De Oro, Cotabato and Malaybalay.

At its peak, the Philippine railway system would stretch 1,140 kilometers in the islands of Luzon, Panay and Cebu, Angara said.

Robinsons Retail acquires Mindanao-based hardware chain

By Leslie D. Venzon [(PNA), RMA/LDV]

MANILA (PNA) -- Gokongwei-led retailer Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. (RRHI) on Monday acquired a majority stake in a big box hardware store chain in Mindanao in a bid to strengthen its presence in the builders’ hardware business segment.

RRHI, through its subsidiary RHI Builders and Contractors Depot Corp., purchased De Oro Pacific Home Plus Depot with three stores located in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City with combined gross floor area of about 9,400 square meters (sqm).

The company also utilizes a 3,000-sqm warehouse in Cagayan do Oro that supports the three De Oro Pacific Home Plus Depot stores.

“The purchase of De Oro Pacific Home Plus Depot stores demonstrate the bullish stance of Robinsons Retail group in the DIY business which is currently riding to the sustained strong growth of the construction sector driven by the huge backlog in residential housing,” RRHI said.

It did not disclose the purchase amount but it noted that the acquisition would add to Robinsons Retail’s big box hardware store portfolio.

In July 2014, RRHI acquired RHI Builders and Contractors Depot Corp., owner and operator of AM Builders Home Depot, which has been renamed to Robinsons Builders, a 17 big box hardware store chain based in the Visayas region.

As of end June 2016, RRHI also operated 153 mall-based DIY hardware stores: 132 Handyman Do It Best stores, 19 True Value stores and two True Home by True Value stores.