Cagayan de Oro City News February 2012

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TESDA-X reveals 2012 Regional Skills Competition champs

by Michelle Empleo-Recanel


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 28 -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Region 10 (TESDA-X) conducted its three-day 2012 Regional Skills Competition last February 15-17, 2012 in three different locations in the region: Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Iligan City; Regional Training Center-Tagoloan; and Cagayan de Oro (Bugo) School of Arts and Trades (COBSAT), Bugo, Cagayan De Oro City.

The competition covered five of the in-demand trade areas in the region namely: Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, Welding, Electrical Installation Technology and Cooking.

Competition in Mechatronics and Industrial Automation were held in MSU-IIT, Iligan City on February 15-16, whose champions were students from the Industrial Automation and Control Engineering Technology Department of MSU-IIT.

MSU-IIT, Iligan City has been a consistent national winner to the Philippine Skills Competition (PNSC) in 2007 and 2009. The university has been the Philippines’ representative in Mechatronics in the ASEAN Skills Competition held in Bangkok, Thailand last 2010.

In the early hours of Feb. 17, a simultaneous event kicked-off in TESDA Regional Training Center-Tagoloan for the Welding and Electrical Installation Technology and Cooking (commercial cooking) took place in COBSAT.

PNSC 2012 will take place in the different regions nationwide this year. The 2012 ASEAN Skills Competition to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia is also awaited this November. (MER-TESDA-X/PIA 10)

PRO-10 commits 1M trees to Northern Mindanao

by PSupt. Ronnie Francis M. Cariaga


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 27 (PIA) -- The officers and men of northern Mindanao committed to put nurseries at their respective police stations and offices, in response to the chief PNP’s ‘Pulis Makakalikasan’ program of promoting a balanced ecological system.

An individual police officer is required to plant at least six seedlings per month until February 2013, in coordination with an official of a barangay or a forest official from a concerned environment and natural resources office. It shall be the responsibilities of the provincial and city directors, as well as their respective chiefs of police (COPs) to ensure the full compliance of this project.

For his part, PCSupt. Jufel C. Adriatico, regional director (RD) of Police Regional Office (PRO)-10, initiated the tree-planting activity at sitio Malasag, Cugman, this city, on February 23, 2012 after the regular morning run. Officers and members of PRO-10, together with the provincial and city directors, and COPs of the component cities and municipalities joined the RD during this activity, where a total of 4,356 seedlings were planted.

A command conference followed at PRO-10 multi-purpose hall, in which unit commanders were required to present their compliances to PRO 10’s socially-responsive Implementation Plan (Implan) “Kabilin: Usa Ka Milyong Kahoy Para Sa Kaugmaon sa Taga Northern Mindanao.”

This Implan helps the region protect its forest cover areas against flashfloods and threatened habitats and sanctuaries of endangered species.

Meanwhile, Adriatico and his team visited the police provincial office in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, Feb. 24 to 25.

He again led the police officers in the morning run from city’s Freedom Park to Sitio Kimambang, Sumpong, where another 860 seedlings were planted.

At the provincial headquarters, PSSupt. Rustom Duran, Provincial Director, presented the nursery he put up to sustain the one-year three-planting program of PRO-10. (PRO/PIA-10)

DSWD conducts stress debriefing for Sendong victims

by Chairmaine P. Tadlas


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 26 (PIA) -- Young and old alike, typhoon Sendong survivors have joined with all enthusiasm in doing all the activities in a stress debriefing, ranging from physical exercises to self-esteem boosting acting exercises.

The Social Protection Cluster held a psychosocial stress debriefing activity at the Calaanan Tent City 1 for the internally displaced persons (IDP) in the area who were typhoon Sendong survivors.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Regional Haven for Women facilitated the activity in Northern Mindanao.

Nolibelyn P. Macabagdal and Portia G. Roldan were the representatives from DSWD. Nimfa Rivera, meanwhile represented the Regional Haven for Women.

The activity, featuring a new experience for all the participants, was attended by an estimated 30 women IDPs of the said site.

A special theater activity exercise was also prepared for the participants.

All were at par with the facilitators in terms of their energy and focus on the said activity.

There was even one participant whom everyone commended because at her age of 78, she was one of the most energetic among all of the participants.

The activity culminated with a message from Macabagdal who thanked all the participants for their cooperation and support. This was the last activity for Macabagdal in the said area, who also held a forum on sexual and reproductive health two days prior to this activity also to the women IDP’s at Calaanan Tent City 1.

All in all, the activity was a success. All of the participants praised the facilitators for having such an enjoyable activity. All of whom said it was their first time to have such an unusual activity. (DSWD/EOR/CPT-PIA10)

On-line registration of business names to kick off in March

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 25 (PIA) -- Registering a new business can be done by any Filipino in the comfort of their homes or offices in any province in the country by March 1 this year.

Director Linda O. Boniao of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of Northern Mindanao during an episode of “Ang Rehiyon Karon (ARK)” radio program, yesterday, over DXIM Radyo Ng Bayan announced that on-line registration of business names with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), tax identification number with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Social Security System (SSS), Pag-ibig and Philhealth can be done in one sitting by anybody who has access to computers.

She said that this is now possible under the automated Philippine Business Registry System (PRBS). Launching was done last January 27, but initial coverage was limited to Metro Manila.

In Northern Mindanao, test run was done this week, Director Boniao shared.

Meanwhile, ARK is a program of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-Region 10’s Communication Advocacy Program task Force (CAP TF) that talks about Northern Mindanao’s development and takes a regular one-hour airing from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. every last Friday of the month, with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) as regular host.

Following will be a five-step guide on how owners of new businesses can use the system.

First, an applicant must create a Philippine Business Registry (PBR) user's account at www.business.gov.ph.

Second: log-in and fill out the PBR online application form.

Third: Applicant's (Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is required to proceed with the PBR number (PBN) which is based on the TIN. If there is an existing TIN, PBR will validate against records. If there's no TIN yet, PBR will generate one for the client.

Fourth: Pay for Business Name (BN) application fee through GCash. Submit application for employer's registration number (ERN) to SSS, Philhealth, and Pag-ibig. ERN from SSS, Pag-ibig, and PhilHealth are then generated and reflected on the owners PBR account dashboard.

Fifth and last stage: Applicant may now proceed to the said agencies to get certificate of employer's ID. Just present the PBR account dashboard. (PIA-10)

PDLWC launches search for inspiring stories and women ambassadors

by Jasmine Alexandra


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 24 -- The Philippine Digital Literacy for Women Campaign (PDLWC) is launching the search for 100 Inspiring Stories campaign in a bid to inspire countless women with stories of transformation and success. A total of 100 stories from women all over the country will be gathered and recognized before the year ends.

Stories can be submitted by any woman, regardless of whether or not she has undergone training through the PDLWC. Stories should be about women benefiting from the opportunities made possible by digital literacy and whose lives have been transformed for the better by information and communication technology (ICT).

The conduct of this search will also pave the way for the identification of the women ambassadors who will represent the PDLWC to the grassroots community throughout the duration of the campaign rollout. The ambassadors will be the women behind the 12 best and most inspiring stories chosen by a panel of judges from amongst all the stories collected.

Aside from collecting stories of inspiration and identifying campaign ambassadors, the search will also recognize the efforts of community e-center (CeC) managers and knowledge workers who will facilitate the submission of these stories.

Moreover, Intel Philippines will be giving a special award to the manager/knowledge worker who submits the most inspiring story of a woman using Intel @ Easy Step, the most number of Intel @Easy Step stories, and the best Intel @Easy Step story.

Deadline for the nominations for the first 20 stories is on March 15. (JA-APB/PR)

CdO constructs 700 houses for Sendong survivors

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 23 (PIA) -- The city government is set to build and will manage the construction of 700 houses in the Calaanan Relocation site for families who lost their houses in Cagayan de Oro City.

“This is a different set of houses aside from the 1,500 houses started by the Habitat for Humanity, and the 300 houses promised by the Filipino-Chinese Community,” Mayor Vicente Y. Emano clarified.

He said that when the houses are completed, the transfer of those families who are presently living in the tent city are given priority. However, other families who lost their houses need not worry because all are included in the relocation, and thus shall get houses as well, the mayor assured the survivors of typhoon Sendong.

Meanwhile, there are now three tent cities in Calaanan established by the city government through the support of Shelter Box and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

The tents serve as temporary shelters for the current occupants until the construction of permanent homes are completed. The houses will be constructed just a few hundred meters south of the tent city. (EOR-PIA 10)

City gov’t, private sector brace partnership to build 200 homes

by goldstardailynews.com


Another ground breaking ceremony in Upper Bolonsiri, Cagayan de Oro City to build 200 houses, marks strong partnership with the city government and the private sector in its ongoing bid to hasten relocation effort for all Sendong survivors. On February 17, City Mayor Vicente "Dongkoy" Y. Emano, joined Mr. Paul Soo, chief of Berjaya Group Philippines, Executive Director Luis Oquiñana, of Gawad Kalinga (GK)and other city government officials in the capsule laying during the groundbreaking ceremonies in a lot owned by the city located in Upper Bolonsiri.

Members of city council led by Vice Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas were also present during the ground breaking ceremony. City officials came as one as they welcome and supported the establishment of Berjaya Village in Upper Bolonsiri where 200 houses will be constructed for the benefit of Sendong victims. Mayor Emano sees this partnership with Berjaya Group Philippines, an investment holding company and Gawad Kalinga as great step towards fulfilling the city government's responsibility to run a responsive and efficient rehabilitation program for all affected families.*

4ID’s 42nd anniversary kicks off with fun games

by Elaine O. Ratunil and Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV


CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, Feb. 21 -- The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division started to celebrate its 42nd anniversary by having a fun games competition at the Division’s parade grounds today.

This is part of the series of activities in line with the two-day anniversary celebration of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division with a theme: “Team Diamond: 42 Years of Service and Commitment.”

The games played were obstacle race relay, tug of war, tire pushing relay, sack race, straw planting and 4 x 100-meter relay. The post units and offices were divided into six groups represented in by different colors to compete with each other.

MGen. Victor A. Felix, Armed Forces of the Philippines Commander, 4ID, said, “As I declare this fun game competition open, I hope that everyone will enjoy and adhere in the oath of sportsmanship you all pledge for.” (EOR/EJCO/4ID-PIA 10)

CdO partners with private sectors to hasten building shelter for Sendong survivors

by Elaine O. Ratunil and Cheryl C. Moncay


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb.20 -- Another groundbreaking ceremony in Upper Bolonsiri, Cagayan de Oro City to build 200 houses marks a strong partnership local government with the private sector in its ongoing bid to hasten relocation efforts for all Sendong survivors.

Last Feb. 17, 2012, Mayor Vicente “Dongkoy” Y. Emano joined Mr. Paul Soo, chief of Berjaya Group Philippines, Executive Director Luis Oquiñana of Gawad Kalinga (GK), and other city government officials in the capsule laying during the groundbreaking ceremonies in a lot that is a property of the city located in Upper Bolonsiri.

Members of Cagayan de Oro City Council led by Vice Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas were also present during the groundbreaking ceremony.'

The establishment of Berjaya Village in Upper Bolonsiri, where construction of 200 houses will soon begin, will provide shelter to and move to safer grounds hundreds of typhoon Sendong survivors. Mayor Emano sees the partnership with Berjaya Group Philippines, an investment holding company, and GK as a great step towards fulfilling the city government’s responsibility to run a responsive and efficient rehabilitation program for all affected families. (EOR/CCM/CIO-PIA 10)

Inmates venture on computer desks-making

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb 19 -- Two jail facilities in Northern Mindanao now make computer desks for internet shops.

Some of the inmates at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) jail facilities in Cagayan de Oro and Malaybalay are engaged in computer desk making.

One of the inmates who was employed to do carpentry works has never been so proud in showing off his P500 bill he earned for producing one set of desk.

“May na lang, naa koy ikahatag sa akong pamilya kung mudalaw nako dinhi sulod(Good that I have something to give to my family every time they visit me here)," he said.

Inside BJMP facilities, inmates are being provided with a variety of livelihood skills training through the IWD which is made in coordination with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Department of Education (DepEd) Alternative Learning System (ALS), said Jail Supt. Clint Russel Tangeres, Cagayan de Oro City Jail Warden.

“Aside from helping inmates acquire skills that will be of much use to them once they are released, this program also aims to inculcate positive attitude amongst them while staying inside,” he further explains.

Two weeks after they started their first production, Cagayan de Oro City Jail and Malaybalay City Jail have already produced a total of 60 wooden computer desks for two internet shops in Cagayan de Oro. (BJMP/PIA-10)

U.S. Embassy closed on Feb. 20 for U.S. Presidents’ Day Holiday

by (EOR/US Embassy/PIA-10)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 18 (PIA) -- The Embassy of the United States in Manila and its affiliated offices will be closed to the public on Monday, February 20, 2012, in observance of Presidents’ Day, an American holiday.

The embassy and its affiliated offices will resume services on Tuesday, February 21.

Until the mid-1970s, the February 22 birthday of George Washington, hero of the Revolutionary War and first president of the United States, was a national holiday. In addition, the February 12 birthday of Abraham Lincoln, the president during the Civil War (1861-1865), was a holiday in most states.

In the 1970s, the U.S. Congress declared that in order to honor all past presidents of the United States, a single holiday, to be called Presidents' Day, would be observed on the third Monday of February.

CdO works with agencies in Lumbia relocation site

by Elaine O. Ratunil and Cheryl C. Moncay


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 17 -- Lumbia relocation site, Cagayan De Oro City, is being developed into a five-hectare temporary relocation and five-hectare permanent relocation site that will shelter hundreds of affected and dislocated families from several flooded barangays in the city.

The first five hectares of land was allocated for the construction of row houses where temporary shelter of families have already started while the other five hectares of lands will also contain the permanent relocation of Sendong survivors where the next ground breaking will soon be held come February 25, 2012.

Xavier University (XU) through its various donor partners has already started the construction of its targeted 500 row houses. At present, 102 households are already resettled temporarily in Lumbia relocation site. It is hoped that at least 10 families will be provided temporary shelter every week.

XU, in partnership with its various partner donors, have already built row houses complete with fire walls, separate comfort rooms, shower rooms, washing, and kitchen areas. Electricity and water system is already in place and are being used by families for free at present. This endeavor has been made possible by the outpouring of generous support from various donor partners through cash donations.

The camp manager from XU explained that the Gawad Kalinga (GK) concept will serve as a model in building the permanent houses in the other five hectares of lands.

Under the GK concept that have long been practiced by LGUs all over the country, beneficiary families are made to participate in the actual construction of houses to instill in them a sense of ownership. It was targeted that all permanent houses will be constructed in six months’ time.

After this process, beneficiary families will have to undergo orientation on values formation as part of the whole package of rehabilitation program.

International Organization for Migration (IOM) allocated P10-million budget for the construction of houses. IOM will focus on the construction of 46 units of bunkhouses where each will accommodate five families. All in all, 230 families will soon be given shelter through IOM’s own effort of relocating the survivors. Red Cross was also responsible for the provision of tents in Lumbia relocation site as temporary shelter.

In this partnership of helping families rebuild their lives by providing the most basic human need for shelter, the Cagayan de Oro City Government, through the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD), assisted Red Cross, Department of Social Welfare and Development, IOM, and XU processed the official list of all affected families deserving priority and secondary relocation. (EOR/CCM/CIO-PIA 10)

West City Central evacuees want to go home

by Elaine O. Ratunil and Cheryl C. Moncay


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 16 -- Some of the remaining evacuees billeted in West City Central School have voiced out their desire to go back to their homes in Acacia, Barangay Carmen, Cagayan De Oro City.

According to Maricelle Libarnes, staff of the Estate Management Division (EMD) who is assigned at the evacuation center, there are 165 families still occupying the temporary quarters in West City Central School.

Some of them want to be relocated at the five-hectare relocation area of Xavier University in Lumbia while some just want to go back to their individual homes in Acacia, Carmen, which was flooded during the height of the typhoon Sendong. Some portions of Acacia, Carmen were not included in the danger zones declared by President Benigno Aquino III.

The places in the city that was declared as danger zones and should not be inhabited are Calacala in Macasandig, Isla de Oro, and Isla Delta in Barangay Consolacion.

Romeo Dalapo, chief of the Human Settlement Section of the EMD, confirms that the homes of those evacuees who want to go back to Acacia, Carmen were not included within the 20-meter danger zones from the bank of the Cagayan de Oro River.

Meanwhile, Libarnes clarified that the EMD is always monitoring the evacuees and are always ready to accommodate their transfer should they eventually wish to be relocated to the temporary shelters in Calaanan. Presently, there are still 35 vacant tents in Tent City 4. (EOR/CCM/CIO-PIA 10)

PAGASA alerts NorMin anew against possible flashfloods due to ALPA

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 15 (PIA) -- People living near the mountain slopes and in low-lying areas of Northern Mindanao have been alerted of possible flashfloods and landslides.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomic Services (PAGASA) has issued Weather Advisory No. 3 for active low pressure area (ALPA) at 11:00 a.m. today, saying the ALPA will bring cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms with widespread rains over Mindanao in the next 24 hours.

This may trigger flashfloods and landslides, Regional Director Ana Cañeda of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region 10, Chairperson of Regional DRRMC said.

Further, the local disaster risk and reduction and management councils concerned are still advised to be alert for possible or further flashfloods.

At 10:00 a.m. today, the ALPA was estimated based on satellite and surface data at 350 km east of Southeast Mindanao. (EOR-PIA 10)

Army troopers celebrate Valentine’s Day with “Sendong” Survivors

by Elaine O. Ratunil and Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV


CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, Feb. 14 -- The Diamond Troopers celebrated the heart season with typhoon Sendong survivors at the Tent City with the distribution of Valentine giveaways.

This activity was conceptualized to remind the victims of typhoon Sendong that there are still reasons to lighten up, enjoy the day, and bury their worries.

Diamond Troopers during this day assisted in relieving the victims of this sad episode in their lives, greeted them Happy Valentine’s Day early in the morning, and gave them Valentine hearts and chocolates.

“All of us wanted to be with our loved ones during this day but it is our duty to serve our people whenever, wherever we are most needed. Let us take this opportunity to encourage the victims of typhoon Sendong to stand up and move on with their lives.” said Major General Victor A. Felix AFP, Commander, Fourth Infantry (Diamond) Division. (EOR/EJCO/4ID-PIA 10)

CSC campaigns for public servants to be servant-heroes

by Apipa P. Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) is actively campaigning to make a servant-hero (lingkod bayani) out of every civil servant.

As part of the campaign, CSC is asking all government agencies and instrumentalities to adopt the “Gawing Lingkod Bayani ang Bawat Kawani” slogan to imbibe among state workers the proper work ethics and to build their capacity to be heroes in their own right.

This is in line with the CSC Memorandum Circular No. 22, S. 2011, which was issued by the Commission to instill in each public servant the ideals of being a servant-hero, said Atty. Lourdes Clavite-Vidal, regional director of CSC in Region 10.

The CSC believes that heroism is powerful and an engaging theme that effectively projects a positive image of the country’s bureaucracy.

Moreover, all government offices are also encouraged to produce “Lingkod Bayani” button pin as part of their employees’ uniform. The button pin should be made of metal plate or plastic, in full color, and with a size of 2.25" in diameter.

Vidal said a soft copy of the button pin template, in jpeg format, is available upon request from the CSC-10 Regional Office or by sending an email at pald_csc10@yahoo.com.ph.

The design of the button pin may likewise be downloaded via the CSC’s website www.csc.gov.ph. (APB-PIA 10)

PAGASA warns Northern Mindanao against possible flashfloods due to LPA

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 12 (PIA) -- People living near the mountain slopes and in low-lying areas of Northern Mindanao have been alerted of possible flashfloods and landslides.

This, after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomic Services (PAGASA) has issued General Flood Advisory No. 1 for region 10, issued at 5:00 p.m., February 11, saying the Low Pressure Area (LPA) affecting Mindanao will bring light to moderate rains to the island in the next 24 hrs.

Further, the local disaster risk and reduction and management councils concerned are still advised to be alert for possible or further flashfloods.

At 2:00 p.m., February 11, the LPA was estimated based on satellite and surface data at 230 km East Southeast of Hinatuan City (7.8oN, 128.5oE).

The waterways likely affected by this weather condition are the rivers and streams in Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, Camiguin Island and Bukidnon.

Thus, fishing boats and other small sea crafts in the region were also advised not to venture out into the sea, while larger sea vessels were alerted against big waves, Regional Director Ana Cañeda of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), region 10, Chairperson of Regional DRRMC, said. (PIA-10)

Xavier Ecoville welcomes third batch of families-beneficiaries

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 11 (PIA) -- Xavier Ecoville has welcomed its third batch of tropical storm Sendong-affected families who will benefit from the housing project of Xavier University.

A total of 103 families, out of 500, have already been relocated to the said relocation site in barangay Lumbia.

The third batch of the relocates consisted of 28 families from six different evacuation centers and from parts of barangays Macasandig and Consolacion.

The temporary bunkhouses were more than enough for one of the relocation site’s beneficiaries, Edwin Mota, who is from Consolacion.

Mota said, “Ay sus! Ka-ayahay ra namo diri. (We’re very lucky here.)”

Amidst the distance from the city proper, Mota said the housing is still fine. “Okay ra, basta makaplastar mi sa akong pamilya. (It’s okay, as long as my family and I can stay somewhere.)”

Mota and his family of five appreciate the help they have received since the flooding incidence.

Xavier Ecoville, located in Brgy. Lumbia, officially opened on January 25, the 40th day since the ‘Sendong’ flashfloods. The site is one of the seven proposed permanent relocation areas identified by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Other batches will be brought to the relocation site once more houses are made ready. The bunkhouses will eventually be housing 500 families, an estimated 2,500 people.

The Ecoville currently gets its water supply from Rio Verde, and its electricity from Cagayan Electric Power and Light Company, Inc. (CEPALCO).

The Human Resettlement Consortium has built communal sustainable sanitation toilets and washrooms, part of the green technology being put in place for the Ecoville. The master plan for the site also includes waste water treatment facilities and solid waste management.

Roel Ravenera, the Ecoville resettlement head, said the families relocated to Lumbia were chosen based on criteria and priority has been given to families whose houses had been completely washed out and those from barangays that have been declared as no-build zones.

The permanent homes, which will be built in collaboration with Gawad Kalinga, Habitat for Humanity, Red Cross and other private sectors, are expected to be finished in six to 12 months. (PIA10)

PDEA nabs three suspected drug pushers

by Elaine O. Ratunil and Juliet Caga-anan


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 10 -- Another successful buy-bust operation was conducted by the operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office in Northern Mindanao.

Led by IO3 Rubylyn S. Alfaro of the Lanao del Norte Provincial Special Enforcement Team, February 7, around 12:30 p.m., at Purok 8, Buruun, Iligan City which resulted to the arrests of three suspected pushers.

Director Roberto S. Opeña of PDEA-10 said identified suspects were Kilong Cotongan a.k.a. Kilong, male, 35 years old, married, tri-sikad driver/dried fish vendor; Fahad Capal a.k.a. Bawe, male, 26 years old, married, suertres collectors, residents of Purok 8, Buruun, Iligan City; and Rakim Capal a.k.a. Mato, male, 19 years old, married, a resident of Brgy. Dilausan, Saguiacan, Lanao del Sur.

They were apprehended after selling a piece of heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu to a PDEA agent who acted as the buyer.

Suspected pushers are now temporarily detained at PDEA Regional Office 10 Detention Cell for booking and documentation while recovered drug items were brought to PNP Crime Laboratory for thorough examination.

Cases for violation of Republic Act 9165 are being prepared for filing appropriate charges in court. (EOR/JC/PDEA-PIA 10)

KKK holds 3rd wave of clean-up drive in CdO

by Cheryl C. Moncay


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 9 -- An estimated 1,060 volunteers of Kagay-anon Kami Katimbayayong Mo Misamisnon (KKK) conducted a new wave of clean-up this city.

In its 3rd and last concentrated effort, KKK cleaned up 156 houses and front yards which belong to the members of the Emily Homes Subdivision Homeowners Association distressed by typhoon Sendong.

Volunteers from the 22 towns of Misamis Oriental composed of barangay captains, barangay kagawads, women, youth leaders, barangay tanods, barangay nutrition scholars, and barangay health workers showed acts of great kindness, when for the third time they came to the clean-up site. They came ready with shovels, sacks, boots, power sprays and backed up by backhoe, dump trucks, and bulldozer.

For their part, Cagayan de Oro City Crisis Committee mobilized several dump trucks that hauled all day tons of soil and mud shoveled by volunteers out from houses and front yards in the subdivision.

RG & K Construction & General Enterprise brought along 80 personnel who joined the clean-up and generously mobilized heavy equipment of pay loaders, backhoe, truck mixer, and power sprays. The use of heavy equipment easily disposed soil, mud and garbage from houses, streets, and canals. Forty Philippine Navy officers and men of BRP Enrique Jurado led by Lieutenant Commander Primitivo Novo Jr., Philippine Navy-Patrol Gunboat 371 also joined the clean-up.

Working together with their team were officers and men of 73rd Naval Reserve Squadron and Philippine Navy Marines Association–CDO Chapter, who all supported the successive clean-up launched in Barangay Carmen, Macasandig and Emily Homes Subdivision.

Jimmy N. Linan, a resident of Emily Homes Subdivision, was all smiles and full of gratitude as he saw hundreds of volunteers arrive in their subdivision

As the clean-up came to its end, residents expressed gratitude to all KKK organizers and volunteers for the labor that was extended and the spirit of “oneness” that was kindly shown at a time when it was most needed. (CCM-CIO)

US Embassy Manila condoles to quake victims

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 8 -- The United States Embassy in Manila sent its condolences to the victims of the recent earthquake near Dumaguete City and lauded the dedication and skills of government and private organizations that are assisting the victims of the disaster. US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Leslie Bassett said the Embassy of the United States offers its condolences to all those affected by the recent earthquake and the following aftershocks near Dumaguete. She said local and national authorities working with civic organizations are making significant efforts to assist the victims of this tragic natural disaster and we applaud their dedication and expertise. Latest report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), on the other hand, indicated death toll in the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that hit Negros Oriental rose to 26. A strong local earthquake occurred offshore Negros Oriental (Tayasan) at 11:49 a.m., Feb. 6, located at 9.97 N, 123.14 E with a depth of 10 km and a preliminary magnitude of 6.9. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has recorded a total of 1,214 aftershocks, and 69 of those were felt as of 6:00 a.m., Feb. 8, in the same areas affected after the main 6.9 magnitude earthquake. No further reports of unusual sea level changes were received after the two-hour extended observation period. Hence, tsunami alerts for the Philippines are cancelled. However, the agency advised the public to take necessary precautions despite decreasing intensity of the aftershocks. (EOR/US Embassy/PIA-10)





CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 8 -- The United States Embassy in Manila sent its condolences to the victims of the recent earthquake near Dumaguete City and lauded the dedication and skills of government and private organizations that are assisting the victims of the disaster.

US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Leslie Bassett said the Embassy of the United States offers its condolences to all those affected by the recent earthquake and the following aftershocks near Dumaguete.

She said local and national authorities working with civic organizations are making significant efforts to assist the victims of this tragic natural disaster and we applaud their dedication and expertise.

Latest report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), on the other hand, indicated death toll in the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that hit Negros Oriental rose to 26.

A strong local earthquake occurred offshore Negros Oriental (Tayasan) at 11:49 a.m., Feb. 6, located at 9.97 N, 123.14 E with a depth of 10 km and a preliminary magnitude of 6.9.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has recorded a total of 1,214 aftershocks, and 69 of those were felt as of 6:00 a.m., Feb. 8, in the same areas affected after the main 6.9 magnitude earthquake.

No further reports of unusual sea level changes were received after the two-hour extended observation period. Hence, tsunami alerts for the Philippines are cancelled.

However, the agency advised the public to take necessary precautions despite decreasing intensity of the aftershocks. (EOR/US Embassy/PIA-10)

CHO heightens sanitation drive in relocation site, evacuation centers

by Cherly C. Moncay


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 6 (PIA) -– Tropical storm Sendong survivors are encouraged to observe sanitation in bathing, cooking and washing.

Proper sanitation, maintenance of hygiene and concrete practice of solid waste management were among the health concerns highly promoted by doctors and nurses of City Health Office (CHO) in a relocation site and 39 evacuation centers, this city.

Cleanliness of comfort rooms, shower rooms and drainage maintenance were also constantly monitored.

Garbage bins or drums, trash bags or sacks were distributed to families to insure concrete practice of solid waste segregation. Regular garbage collections were also maintained.

Dr. Teodulfo Joselito Retuya, City Government Department Head II, said, “Kami sa City Health Office naningkamot kanunay sa pagserbisyo sa atong libuan ka mga affected families. Apan gikinahanglan usab ang hustong kooperasyon gikan sa atong mga kaigsoonan. Kini pinaagi sa ilang kanunay nga pagmatngon sa ilang obligasyon sa pagmintinar sa kalimpyo pinaagi sa pagpakita og disiplina. (We are doing our best to continuously serve thousands of affected families. However, cooperation is needed. This is through their continuous consciousness of their obligation in maintaining cleanliness through showing discipline.)”

Dr. Retuya also recognized the great support that many partners have extended to the city: Department of Health (DOH), UNICEF, Xavier University, Pilipinas Shell and other private sectors, among others for being generous partners of CHO in promoting health and well-being of affected families. (CIO/PIA-10)





Girl lost everything but has more to give

by Martin Nanawa

Philippine Daily Inquirer


MANILA, Philippines—“Please, just take my sister,” 15-year-old Apple pleaded in the vernacular. She was sure the woman perched above them in the large acacia tree had heard her through the roar of the floodwaters. “I can stay down here, but please take my sister,” she added, holding 7-year-old Janie as high above the churning black tide as she could. “We can’t. There’s no more room!” came the woman’s reply. Barely two hours earlier on that night of Dec. 16, members of Apple’s family had gone to bed in their tiny house on Isla de Oro, situated in the middle of the Cagayan River in Cagayan de Oro City. The family lived in a densely packed community of contiguous small houses built of light materials, mostly wood and galvanized iron sheets. Tropical Storm “Sendong” (international code name: Washi) brought hard rain that evening, and the river had swelled a little. Despite the still fresh memory of the 2009 flooding, the river did not seem to pose a threat. But the rain continued to pour and the river continued to swell. Shortly after 9 p.m., Apple’s mother, a shrimp vendor at the market and the family’s breadwinner, her father, and eldest brother went to the barangay hall to seek word on the situation. Power outage Within that time, however, the river suddenly poured into the streets, neck-high, and barangay officials prevented people from returning home on foot. Back home, neighbors were calling to Apple’s family to flee to safety. Many climbed to their roofs when the floodwaters reached the second floors of their homes. Apple had three younger siblings in her care, but lost all presence of mind when the power went out. A wave of terrified cries came up in the neighborhood as the world lost its color, with gray rain pouring in sheets from above and black waters raging below. In the darkness, the groan of wooden beams and the unearthly clamor of corrugated iron sheets flapping in the wind amplified the children’s terror. A neighbor’s house was uprooted by the flood that engulfed it and carried downstream until it crashed violently against their house. Shaken by the impact and the rushing tide and debris, the central beam of the house gave way, the second floor tipped over, and everything was plunged underwater. Apple thought it was the end. But she grabbed her siblings and the statue of Mother Mary from the family altar, and led them in swimming through the current. Living in the middle of the Cagayan River had taught each of the children to swim, and that night would test their skill to the fullest. They found their way out through a window and up to the surface, where they clung to a neighbor’s house as they surveyed their surroundings. The river had claimed their community. Everywhere, people were wailing for help in their houses, scrambling to or falling off their roofs, and being violently swept away. “I saw a neighbor putting his baby in a Styrofoam icebox to keep him above water,” Apple recalled. “But the icebox tipped over and the baby was gone instantly.” From roof to roof Meanwhile, Apple’s parents and the rest of the family, 77-year-old grandmother in tow, had made it back. They pulled everyone up to a neighboring roof, and thereafter scrambled from roof to roof, the father practically wearing the youngest children around him as houses fell apart. The river, the daily source of livelihood for most of the community’s residents, demonstrated its malevolence. It smashed against houses, foaming and filling the hollows, and simultaneously uprooted and pulled the walls apart from the inside, producing jagged debris that barreled toward other houses and people caught in the current. Apple found herself and Janie being thrown about in the waters, separated from the family. The acacia tree stood in their way downstream and they latched on for dear life. Janie was cold and tired, and Apple had to let go of the statue of Mother Mary so she could hold her sister. She observed that some 30 others had made it to safety in the upper branches, and not knowing how much longer she and Janie could hold on, she begged them to take her sister. But she was refused. Exhausted, Janie suggested that they drift downstream to find a safe place. But Apple was sure that letting go would be the death of them. She could see her neighbors and playmates tossing in the river, bobbing up and gasping for breath only to be lost as quickly beneath the tide. Others stretched out an arm and cried for help she could not give. As startling as it was terrifying were the things she could feel brushing against her legs: Debris and shards would sting, but she knew flesh from rubbish when she felt it, or hair from grass. “There’s nothing we can do,” she sobbed to Janie, and somehow they understood that the others up in the tree wept too. After the deluge The flood receded as quickly as it came. Clutching each other, the sisters sloshed through the mud and found a plastic bag tied in a knot and containing clothes that, blessedly, were dry. They quickly changed into the clothes, heedless of all else but the need to keep warm. Its owners must have lost the bag while fleeing, the way Apple lost the one item she had thought to save. Apple would later find out that the flood that had bulldozed her community was now at work farther downstream, bringing about more death and misery. At first light, Apple saw the dead littering the muddy expanse. When she saw her father, he was already well on his way rushing toward her. His clothes were torn and he had cuts and bruises on his shins and shoulders. Everyone, including her grandmother, followed close behind him. Together, they made their way home. The roof seemed to have been lost in one piece, and all that was left standing was the stairwell. The survivors lost two homes—the one where they lived in and the one they were about to build. The father had purchased a small lot away from the river and its hazards, and was preparing to begin building a new home. Plywood and galvanized iron sheets had been stocked in their house, only to be lost in the flood. “It’s sad that we lost the house, but what’s important is we all survived,” Apple said. Child-Centered Space Noon of Dec. 17, the family made it to City Central School, which, like many other public schools in Cagayan de Oro, was designated an evacuation center. Conditions were hard. It was terribly warm in the evacuation center, and sanitation and waste disposal immediately became a concern. Apple had to tend to her younger siblings—a situation common among families where the parents had to queue for relief goods or salvage items from the remains of their homes. It was at the school that Apple first encountered ChildFund, a nonprofit group committed to help impoverished children who have the capacity to become young adults, parents and leaders that will bring lasting and positive change to their communities, as well as promote societies where children’s worth and rights are valued, protected and advanced. A passenger jeepney rolled into the evacuation center. Young people in green shirts and carrying plastic boxes and large tarpaulin mats emerged, laid the mats in a paved courtyard near the kindergarten, and invited the children to play. It was the first Child-Centered Space (CCS) established at City Central School. Apple watched as the children played, drew pictures and sang songs together. She found herself wanting to join them, but ended up taking Janie to the group. Janie returned to the space allotted to her family wearing a hat made from a newspaper page. She said the children made paper hats at CCS, and though she couldn’t follow the instructions, one of the ates and kuyas (big sisters and brothers) made one for her. The paper hat became her new treasure. ChildFund volunteer Janie had her family’s permission to attend CCS every day. Apple saw how Janie would return full of stories to share. The few times Apple came by to observe, she found herself wanting to join the activities. But soon after New Year’s Day, the ChildFund jeepney did not show up. Apple later learned that the ates and kuyas had to go back to school and could not come anymore. She was happy when ChildFund’s local partner spread word at the evacuation center inviting young people to train to become the next batch of youth facilitators. While earlier she only watched in admiration, she now had an opportunity to be an ate to more than just Janie. Apple attended a two-day workshop that initially helped her process her own experience and gave her the fortitude to help other children deal with theirs. She and other youth and parent volunteers also learned how to host specific activities according to ChildFund’s CCS manual. Best of all, she got the chance to play many games in the course of her training. “I had so much fun at ChildFund’s workshop,” she said. Though she had just survived harrowing circumstances, saving her sister in the process, Apple had not, until then, become aware of the need to be brave, or that she must have been very brave to endure her ordeal. Now, Apple is helping other children heal by becoming a volunteer at the Child-Centered Space. She may have lost her home and all her belongings in the flood, but the fact that she and her family are intact is her first consolation. Through CCS, she has also found that as long as she has more to give, she cannot ever say that she has lost everything.

Pag-IBIG to condone delinquent, unregistered employers but not recividists

by pia.gov.ph


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 4 (PIA) -- The Home Development Mutual Fund, otherwise known as the Pag-IBIG Fund, is condoning penalties of delinquent and unregistered employers from January 2 to June 30, 2012 under its penalty condonation program.

The program covers unregistered and delinquent employers, as well as employers who have Pag-IBIG coverable employees but have not collected membership contributions from them, said Juliano S. Banghal, Pag-IBIG Fund Cagayan de Oro branch manager.

He said employers who collected membership contributions and/or short-term loan amortizations from their employees but failed to remit the same to the Fund are disqualified from this condonation.

Similarly, employers who have previously availed of any penalty condonation offered by the Fund are also excluded from the coverage.

According to Banghal, the penalty condonation program seeks to protect the interest of Pag-IBIG members and provide employers practicable means to settle their membership contribution arrears.

It also seeks to compel unregistered and delinquent employers to register their employees to the Fund and provide them access to the benefits they deserve.

Those who want to apply for the program are required to submit an application for penalty condonation; list of employees with unremitted contributions; affidavit of undertakings; photocopies of payroll; and certified true copy of applicable proof of business existence such as business permit/mayor’s permit, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Certificate of Registration for sole proprietorship, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Certificate of Partnership or Incorporation for partnership/corporation/trade association, Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Certificate of Cooperative for cooperatives, and SSS certificate of membership.

Employers with approved penalty condonation applications shall have penalties on their membership contribution arrears condoned. Said membership contribution arrears shall include employer counterpart contributions and dividends that should have been earned by these contributions.

For details, visit the Pag-IBIG Fund Cagayan de Oro Branch located in J.R. Borja-Mortola Streets or call them at telephone numbers 726-348, 722-800, 856-1861 to 62 local 211, 218, and 219. (APB/PIA-10)

Police holds anti-hepa vaccination

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) conducted an anti-hepatitis vaccination in this city on Feb. 2.

With the support of Police Regional Office (PRO) in Northern Mindanao and the PNP Ladies Club, the special project primarily utilized the proceeds of the First RD (Regional Director) Fund Run for a Cause, held Dec. 10, last year, with the theme, “A Run for Unity, Peace and Prosperity.”

Further, the ‘Adopt an Anti-Hepatitis-Vaccinated-Child Program’ is supported by PNP Director General Nicanor A. Bartolome and his wife Dr. Noemia Bartolome, both are advocates on fighting hepatitis disease.

Bartolome stressed the need to complete the vaccination. It will be futile not to do so as recommended since the first vaccine will not effective if it not followed through.

He also ordered the provincial directors and chiefs of police to ensure and remind parents to have their children get complete vaccination of the anti-hepatitis.

Police Chief Superintendent Jufel C. Adriatico, on the other hand, said we are not firing guns today but pushing needles to protect the people from hepatitis as he considered it becomes a stumbling block to achieving dreams.

Thus he underscored the importance of the vaccination and reiterated the cost of having complete vaccination that requires four shots of the vaccine which include three onsecutive months and a follow up after a year.

Meanwhile, Adriatico expressed his gratitude to the support extended during the Fun Run.

“We are seeing the fruits of the Fun Run and we are able to gather enough funds to procure anti-hepatitis vaccines,” said Adriatico.

He also extended his appreciation to the army’s Fourth Infantry Division for the assistance extended during the medical mission.

Unlike any other chronic diseases, hepatitis B and C are considered silent killers which could infect an individual without the person knowing it. What makes the diseases chronic is when it is left untreated. It could result to liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, liver failure and even death. (PIA-10)

Suspect in broadcaster’s slay attempt surrenders

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


CAGAYAN DE ORO -- The suspect in the shooting of broadcaster Michael James Licuanan of Bombo Radyo surrendered to police in Jasaan town, Misamis Oriental on Monday.

Baldomero N. Pajo, 29, a resident of Barangay Natubo in Jasaan Misamis Oriental, yielded around 3 p.m. Monday, said Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) Director Senior Superintendent Gerardo Rosales.

Pajo was immediately turned over to the Maharlika Headquarters where he is now detained.

Pajo has been tagged as one of the suspects in the slay attempt of Licuanan, also known as Bombo James Dacoycoy, on November 24, 2011.

Pajo, a “habal-habal” driver, said he surrendered to clear his name.

“I surrendered because I am innocent of the crime. I even tried to commit suicide because of this. I don’t even know that person (Licuanan),” he said in the dialect.

Pajo denied allegation that he went to the station of Bombo Radyo a few hours before Licuanan was shot.

He said he was in Jasaan at that time because it was also the birthday of one of his relatives.

Pajo said he doesn’t even know his alleged co-accused, a certain Wenceslao M. Diaz.

“I was not hiding. I was working as a laborer in a construction site in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental,” he said.

Mayor Vicente Emano said he ordered Rosales to present the suspect to Licuanan.

Licuanan, for his part, said he is happy with this development.

“Maybe this is a sign that justice will be given not only to me but to all journalists in the country,” he said.

JB Deveza, safety officer of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, said the case should not be treated as solved despite the surrender of one of the suspects.

“This is not yet solved unless someone is convicted in court. As of now, we should treat him still as a suspect,” Deveza said.

On January 2, the City Prosecutor’s Office recommended the filing of frustrated murder against Pajo in court after the prosecutors found probable cause “that the crime has been committed and that respondents are probably guilty.” (With Michael Andrew W. Yu of Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro/Sunnex)

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