Cagayan de Oro City News July 2012

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‘Gener’ brings flashfloods, landslides in 3 Lanao towns

By Nef Luczon


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews/30 July) – Rains brought by tropical storm Gener (international codename: Saola) has caused landslides and flashfloods in at least three towns in Lanao del Norte, the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) said. As of 7:00am today, about 300 families from different villages of Sapad, Kapatagan, and Sultan Naga Dimaporo towns have moved to evacuation centers. Junelyn Pepito, of the Kapatagan Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (DRRMO) reported that residents of Barangay Bagong Silang, Kapatagan gathered at the roadside before they were “preemptively evacuated.” Raulia Dimatimbang, of the Sultan Naga Dimaporo DRRMO said that the landslides in Barangay Bangaan have made the road leading to Cotabato City impassable. Marilyn Trozo of the Provincial DRRMO said that they were still counting the actual number of affected families and assessing the damage to properties in some barangays. “We are still closely monitoring the situation, rest assured,” she said. Meanwhile, the Sapad DRMMO has already provided hot meals and conducted search and rescue operations together with the local police and personnel from the 35th Infantry Battalion. In Sultan Naga Dimaporo, the DRRMO conducted search and rescue operations with the 35IB and clearing of the national road at Barangay Bangaan. (Nef Luczon/MindaNews)

PDEA seizes shabu in Cagayan de Oro buy-bust

By MARVS LIBRI


Around P295,000 worth of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, was seized by operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 10 in Cagayan de Oro City in their recent buy-bust operation.

Close to 25 grams of alleged shabu was recovered by the team led by Vincent Cecil Orcales of the Misamis Oriental Provincial Special Enforcement Team on Thursday.

In the operation, a suspected drug pusher and his companion were able to escape authorities by jumping out a window and running towards an unknown direction.

The suspects carried with them a .45 caliber pistol and the P500-marked money, the PDEA reported.

PDEA 10 Director Roberto Opeña said that one piece of heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu by the PDEA undercover agent was bought from the said suspects.

Also recovered during the said operation were two pieces of big-sized and two medium-sized rectangular heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu; six disposable lighters; three improvised aluminum tooters; three improvised aluminum foil needles; one improvised plastic tooter; one cut-out aluminum foil strip; one hand grenade; and 14 pieces of .38 caliber live ammunitions.

The recovered drug and non-drug pieces of evidence were brought to the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory for quantitative and qualitative examinations.

A case for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act is being prepared for filing in court.

Multicab operators, drivers coop activates membership in Pag-IBIG Fund

By Apipa P. Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, July 29 (PIA) -- A multi-purpose cooperative (MPC) of multicab operators and drivers in the city has inked a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with Pag-IBIG Fund for the activation of their membership to the Fund.

The MoA was inked by Pag-IBIG Fund Cagayan de Oro Branch Department Manager Juliano S. Banghal and CAMODA MPC Chairman P. Ganot, along with the officers from both the Fund and the transport cooperative.

The signing was held July 28, at the CAMODA MPC headquarters in Barangay Camaman-an, this city.

As part of the MoA signing, the CAMODA MPC’s official also turned-over their payment to Pag-IBIG Fund covering the initial membership savings of the group.

The CAMODA MPC, in turn, received their first Pag-IBIG Fund Receipt, as proof of payment.

A briefing on Republic Act 9679 was earlier organized and given to the officers and members of CAMODA MPC as part of the Fund’s Knowledge Management campaign.

According to Banghal, Republic Act 9679 which also known as the Home Development Mutual Fund Law requires all Filipino workers earning at least one thousand pesos (P1,000.00) monthly to actively save in Pag-IBIG Fund.

The law, he said, also applies to all self-employed including the transport group and cooperative workers. (Pag-IBIG Fund/APB,PIA-10)

Krusada: Cagayan De Oro, 7 months after Sendong

By Nathalie Blanco, Multimedia Producer, Krusada


Karen Davila returns to Cagayan de Oro City to check on the victims of typhoon Sendong and see how they have so far recovered from the calamity that struck the city seven months ago.

A week before Christmas 2011, the entire nation was shocked to see the extent of devastation and to learn the harrowing tales of tragedy wrought by typhoon Sendong to our kababayans in the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan in Northern Mindanao.

We wept and mourned with the victims and their loved ones as images of their loss and sufferings flashed before our TV screens. More than a thousand perished, and millions' worth of properties and agriculture were damaged. But nothing will compare to the pain and agony of those who lost family members to the massive floods.

It has been almost seven months since Sendong; the media proceeded to cover other big news including disasters of lesser scale while the rest of us have probably moved on with our lives and our own concerns and worries. But do we remember the victims of Sendong and how they are coping half a year since the one event that changed their lives forever?

Have they "moved on"?

Karen Davila revisited Cagayan de Oro, the very city she covered right after the aftermath of Sendong, to know how the victims of the typhoon are coping.

Hundreds of families left homeless by the typhoon are still cramming in tent cities, which serve as their temporary shelters, and have to suffer from extreme heat under the sun and flood waters sometimes seeping through their tents.

Many of them complain of the terrible heat in their temporary tent shelters; and how far from ideal their situation is.

In Tent City 2 located in Sitio Calaanan, Barangay Canitoan, for instance, they suffer during day time because of the heat but when it rains, they also suffer as water inevitably enters their tents. It is only one of the four tent cities in Cagayan de Oro.

All 200 families share four public restrooms while in Tent City 2.

Tent City tenants

How temporary is “temporary”?

One of the survivors, Ethel Sala, lives with her husband and six children in a tent. She says they could not move on with their lives and find jobs because they could not leave their tents unattended.

While the disaster financially incapacitated her family, it also left them psychological traumatized and constantly terrified.

“Our lives will only become normal again when we have a proper home where my children can sleep soundly. Sendong has scared us so much that we’re frightened and can’t sleep when it rains hard,” said Ethel.

Dabs Liban, community worker of Habitat for Humanity, says that immediately after Sendong, they found the victims looking extremely distressed in tent cities and informal sites where they were evacuated.

“They were really traumatized. In fact, a few weeks later, there was already a suicide case,” he said.

Seven months after the disaster, many victims are have yet to cope. John Paul Barsopia, Tent City 2 resident and member of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), believes that having no home to finally settle in exacerbates the stress of the residents.

John Paul also claims that proper procedures regarding house grants are not being observed.

Habitat for Humanity

Sendong took away not only Rosalina Absin’s home, but also all of her three children. Her grief-stricken husband is yet to fully cope with the loss; but Rosalina is determined to move forward and live a new life with her unborn child.

After the tragedy, she and her husband were accepted in her relatives’ home. But in the first week of July, they finally transferred into their new house courtesy of the national government and Habitat for Humanity.

A total of 6,000 houses were established by the government and Habitat for Humanity in Cagayan de Oro. The P500 million donation of San Miguel Corporation was split equally between Habitat for Humanity’s housing project in Cagayan and Gawad Kalinga in Iligan.

Charlie Ayco, President of Habitat for Humanity Philippines, says that 12 houses are finished by the non-government organization daily.

After six months, 3,000 quadruplex houses have already been constructed. In April, 1,600 houses have been completed and turned over to its new owners.

Charlie clarifies that quadruplex houses were built instead of the ideal single-detached houses because it is the “fastest, cheapest but durable” housing for the residents of Cagayan de Oro.

Despite building thousands of homes, Charlie believes that while many are still dwelling in tent cities, they could still do better and they should still work harder.

“This is not ideal yet. If it happened that it was my children or relatives that are still in evacuation centers, that won’t be acceptable. That’s how I think of it. That’s how I measure it. But is this a quick disaster response? I think this is the fastest I’ve seen so far!”

Lawmaker to turn over multi-million projects in Oro

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


CAGAYAN de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez (2nd district) will lead Friday’s groundbreaking ceremonies to signal the start of multi-million infrastructure projects in the city.

The first ground breaking will be for the P14.1-million construction of slope protection along Butuan City-Cagayan de Oro City-Iligan City Road, Alae-Bugo Section in Barangay Bugo.

After the groundbreaking, Rodriguez and his party comprising of public works engineers and local officials will proceed to Barangay Balubal for yet another groundbreaking for the construction/repair of the P160,000 two Multi-Purpose Buildings.

Also to be held would be the groundbreaking of the P2-million construction of road in Purok 4, Barangay Tablon and another P2 million for the construction of road in Sto. Niño Barangay Lapasan; construction of slope protection along Butuan City-Cagayan de Oro-Iligan City road in Barangay Agusan worth P11.6 million; construction of road in Barangay Nazareth worth P2 million and another P2 million for the construction of two multi-purpose building; P5 million for the construction of road in Barangay Macasandig; P2 million for road construction in Barangay Consolacion, and the construction of the Cagayan de Oro River Basin in Barangay Macabalan worth P50 million.

After the groundbreaking, Rodriguez will then turn over another multi-million infrastructure projects in South Divisoria and in Barangays Puerto, Lapasan, Macasandig and Macabalan.

Lawmaker turns over P7-M infra projects in Oro

by Published in the Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro newspaper


CLOSE to P7 million worth of infrastructure projects were turned over Cagayan de Oro Representative Benjo Benaldo in three areas within the city’s first district over the weekend.

First to benefit from Benaldo’s projects are the personnel of the 4th Infantry Division (ID) who will reside at the Diamond Heights Village inside Camp Evangelista where the congressman turned over a 369 meter-long concrete road worth P3.8 million to Major General Victor Felix.

“This is part of 82 to 100 projects that we allocated for the first district. With the very able leadership and capabilities of District Engineer Bonifacio Lora and Assistant District Engineer Khadaffy Tanggol, we hope to finish these before my first term ends,” Benaldo said during a simple program after the ribbon-cutting.

He added that, before, only one percent of the national housing budget was allocated for Mindanao.

“Now that we are the assistant majority leader in Congress and with the full cooperation of Mindanao congressmen, half of the housing budget has been earmarked for Mindanao. As long as I am still your congressman, I will devote more of my time and efforts so that our men in uniform will be given decent housing,” Benaldo told the soldier-recipients who gave him a standing ovation.

Also turned-over over was a P1 million road project at the 4th ID.

Benaldo was warmly received by officials and residents of Sitio Pasil in Barangay Kauswagan as he lowered the time capsule in a simple groundbreaking ceremony for a P2-million covered court.

Assisting Benaldo during the groundbreaking rites were Kauswagan village chief Pedro Balite, former village chief Elnora Cahoy, and other barangay officials. (PR)

Cagayan de Oro lawmaker, lawyer disqualified to be Chief Justice

by (Virgil Lopez/Sunnex)


MANILA (Updated 2:58 p.m.) -- Cagayan de Oro City Representative Rufus Rodriguez and lawyer Vicente Velasquez will no longer be considered for the position of Chief Justice for failing to submit documentary requirements set by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC).

Among the requirements asked by the JBC are asset statements, income tax returns, and waiver to disclose peso and dollar accounts.

"As far as I know, practically all requirements were not submitted to the JBC," Jose Mejia, who represents the academe in the screening body, told Sun.Star.

Rodriguez, a former Immigration commissioner, was originally scheduled to be interviewed on Thursday, while Velasquez must appear the next day.

As a result, only 20 candidates are vying for inclusion in the JBC shortlist of nominees, which will be submitted to President Benigno Aquino III on July 30.

The seven-member JBC interviewed on Tuesday Presidential Commission on Good Government Chairperson Andres Bautista, lawyer Soledad Cagampang-De Castro, Justice Secretary Leila De Lima, De La Salle University Law Dean Jose Manuel Diokno, Solicitor General Francis Jardeleza, and lawyer Maria Carolina Legarda.

Interviewed on Wednesday were Supreme Court Justice Roberto Abad, lawyer Rafael Morales, former University of the Philippines law dean Raul Pangalangan, SC Justice Arturo Brion, Commission on Elections Commissioner Rene Sarmiento, and retired Judge Manuel DJ. Siayngco, Jr.

Those to be interviewed on Thursday are University of the East law dean Amado Valdez, Acting Chief Justice Antonio Carpio, SC Justice Teresita Leonardo-De Castro, and former Ateneo law dean Cesar Villanueva.

Set to be grilled on Friday are Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Teresita Herbosa, former Executive Secretary Ronaldo Zamora, SC Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, and SC Justice Presbitero Velasco, Jr.

2 ‘credit card syndicate’ members nabbed

by Published in the Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro newspaper


TWO men allegedly involved in a fraudulent credit card syndicate were arrested by police operatives in two different locations in Cagayan de Oro.

Police Senior Inspector Elmer Robas, chief of the Cogon Police Precinct, identified the suspects as Raul Marquez, 50, and Michael Jeffrey Sol, 27, both residents of Metro manila.

Robas said Marquez was first arrested on Sunday inside a jewelry shop in one of the malls in the Cagayan de Oro City.

He said Marquez’s credit card was not honored while he was about to pay the jewelry he purchased worth P110,000.

According to Claire Joy Cagatan, 24, sales representative of Carla’s Treasures Jewelry Shop, she found Marquez “very suspicious.”

Cagatan said after seeing Marquez using a visa card to pay for the jewelry, she immediately reported the credit card to her manager.

The management then called up the police that led to his arrest.

“He could have carted away the Chinese gold jewelry if we were not warned by banks to be wary of suspected users of credit cards,” Cagatan said.

Robas said aside from the jewelry store, Marquez and his cohort have previously done a successful transaction at Fuji Store, carting away a Nikon digital camera worth P63,000.

On Monday, police brought Marquez to the Lumbia Airport where Sol and another companion identified as a certain “Tulog” were arrested.

Robas said the two were about to fly back to Manila.

He said Sol was arrested while inside an eatery taking his breakfast.

However, police failed to arrest “Tulog.”

During interrogation at the airport police office, Sol at first denied his involvement of the crime and even denied knowing Marquez.

However, Sol later admitted that he was one of the suspects.

Marquez and Sol are now temporarily detained at the Cogon Police Precinct pending the filing of cases against them.

Northern Mindanao pushes for federation of consumer groups

by (EOR/LVG-PIA10, LDN/DTI 10)


ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, July 23 (PIA) -- Consumer groups in Northern Mindanao unanimously agreed on the creation of a regional federation of consumer organizations in Region 10.

This was the result of the discussions during the Regional Consumer Assembly held recently in Cagayan de Oro City as revealed by Ruel B. Paclipan, provincial director, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Iligan City, Lanao del Norte Provincial Office.

The establishment of the regional federation, which is targeted in the third quarter of 2012, is expected to unify the voices of the different consumer organizations in the region, said Paclipan.

Some of the issues and concerns raised by the different stakeholders were public consciousness on consumer laws and fair trade laws, implementation of consumer laws, strong linkages among different sectors and government support to consumer groups.

On the other hand, among the best practices highlighted during the assembly were the implementation of consumer welfare projects such as Bagsakan Center and Consumer Welfare Desk (CWD) in business establishments, proactive Local Price Coordinating Councils (LPCCs) and effective market administration.

After the discussion, the following recommendations were formulated: regular updating of price monitoring boards in markets, especially for fish and meat products; strengthening of LPCCs to effectively perform their duties, particularly during calamities; and procurement of testing and weighing devices to measure products sold in the market.

Outputs from the Regional Consumer Assembly will be presented at the upcoming National Consumer Congress scheduled on October 1, to kick off the Consumer Welfare Month celebration.

It will be joined by the representatives from the consumer organizations, academe and partner agencies to come up with a National Action Plan for the advancement of consumer welfare and protection, Paclipan said.

‘Let the Ramadhan spirit prevail in ARMM’

by (Nef Luczon/MindaNews)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNew/21 July) – As Muslims around the world observe the holy month of Ramadhan, an official in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao expressed hopes it will “lighten the path of the registered voters.” The impoverished autonomous Muslim region ended last Wednesday the 10-day re-registration of voters. Assemblywoman Samira Gutoc-Tomawis also urged the politicians in the ARMM to abide with the teachings of Islam and give way for a transparent and good governance in the region. During the month-long Ramadhan, Muslims are required to fast and pray five times daily from dawn to dusk, and read the Holy Qur’an and follow its teachings, like helping the poor and the sick. “Will Ramadhan make us more honest? Will we value our right of suffrage more? asked Tomawis, also the convener of the group Reform ARMM Now (RAN). Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda yesterday also sent greetings to the Muslims in reverence to the observance of the Ramadhan. “The coming weeks shall be dedicated to the solemn fulfillment of the tenets of your spirituality, demanding great sacrifice and due discipline, as an act of surrender to Allah, the beneficent, and all-merciful,” Lacierda said in a statement. “These are times when your government has been working with all people of goodwill, to restore trust and confidence in our vital institutions. May we all be filled with this spirit of cooperation, respect, and confidence as we seek the path of peace,” he added. In pushing for reforms and good governance in the ARMM, Tomawis said that RAN pushed the “One fingerprint, One person, One vote” campaign during the re-registration of voters. A 22-year-old university student here who lives in Wao, Lanao del Sur claimed that she and her family were given an “extra allowance” of at least P500 each just so they would register. “The population in the town was not big enough, that is why they wanted us to get registered,” she said.

On the “flying voters,” Tomawis said that some village officials were “pressured” to reach a “quota.” Meanwhile, a group called “Bantay ARMM Registration Updates” has been formed in the social networking site Facebook. In a post at this group, Tomawis urged the members to “carry on the torch of Bantay Elections as civilians are now emboldened to rise and claim their right to voice up their aspiration for a better place.” User Rawia Pangadapun said the voters’ re-registration “is one big step forward to a new Marawi City.”

CAGAYAN DE ORO OFFERS TOUR PACKAGES TO HELP FLOOD VICTIMS

by newsflash.org


MANILA, JULY 21, 2012 (MALAYA) Written by MADELAINE CABRERA - Cagayan de Oro is offering tour packages that will allow visitors to help flood victims and at the same time have some fun.

Tourists can choose from 4 “fun- help packages” the CDO branch of the Department of Tourism is facilitating.

Visitors can choose from four “relief” operations-feeding program, cleaning, tree planting or clearing the river- they can mix with their vacation.

DOT-Northern Mindanao regional director Catalino Chan said the tourists’ one-day immersion can either be the on first day of their package or after a day of city tour or optional whitewater rafting or zipline adventure. This package is also applicable for Iligan he said

Chan said the number of tourists going to CDO went down by 53 percent this year but they saw a new kind of visitors-those wishing to help residents cope with the after-effects of the great floods.

Chan said Sendong’s destruction somehow helped boost hotel industry in CDO as philanthropists and charitable institutions trooped and sought accommodations while they conduct relief operations.

“But as I personally see it, I believe that the tourism increased, because every body wants to help, Local Government Units (LGU)s and the private sector, who are trying to help come in batches and they always return to monitor effects of their assistance,” he said.

Chan said there were only 101,936 tourists this year compared with 236,241 last year.

He said the DOT prepared the special package for “helping tourists” facilitating their hotel accommodations, tapping 18 travel and tour member-firms of the Cagayan de Oro Travel and Tours Association to house the visitors who are expected to bring goods for “Sendong” victims.

Chan said the DOT also tapped the Cagayan de Oro Hotel and Restaurants Association, Department of Health and Department of Social Welfare and Development to come up with travel packages that would also encourage tourists to stay with the intention to help the victims recover from the onslaught of the flood.

DOT’s special package include hotel accommodations at a minimum of P3, 350 only which already includes 2 lunch.

Part of the offer is a round-trip airport-to-hotel transfer with half-day city tour, meals and entrance fees.

Optional tours include whitewater rafting, zipline adventure and an extra night stay.

The regional tourism department’s offer would be made available until next year where part of the proceeds go to the flood victims.

Meanwhile, Chan also revealed another package which is called The Cagayan de Oro City Tour, “though it is not daily, we make it a point to have it during Friday, Saturday and Sundays, where you can tour at P599 for four hours,” he said.

DOT accreditation survey showed that Misamis Oriental is set to build 1,700 rooms that will be open next year with 859 for Cagayan de Oro alone.

Philippine Airlines (PAL) also offers cheaper rates with PAL’s Payday Special Domestic promo.

DILG, Loren team up to prevent another Sendong in river basins in PH

by Christina Mendez


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - In a bid to educate local officials on how to mitigate climate change and lower disaster risks, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)- Local Government Academy, in partnership with the office of Senator Loren Legarda, formally launched here Thursday the regional forum on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.

Legarda said the workshop, centered on the CDO river basin, is an effort to assist local government units (LGUs) in developing effective strategies on disaster risk management.

In her speech, Legarda stressed the need for every province, city, municipality to be disaster resilient.

"We need a paradigm shift where we are always reactive during typhoons and disasters. Giving dole outs, sending victims to evacuation centers should be a picture of before, we should be ready even before typhoons strike," Legarda said in her keynote address at the start of the workshop at the Mallberry Suites here.

The senator also challenged CDO officials to prioritize a climate change action plan in the local level. Other LGUs should also follow suit.

"We will give additional PDAF for these climate change action plans," she said.

In the case of CDO river, Legarda noted that the steep and degraded slopes leading to the river, extensive area of river catchment, and occurrence of heavy rainfall leave the people at greater risk of flash flooding.

Apart from the Cagayan River Basin, the River Basin Control Office (RBCO) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) had identified 17 other major river basins in the country which may also be at risk.

These are: Cagayan River; Mindanao River Basin; Agusan River Basin; Pampanga River Basin; Agno River Basin;Abra River Basin; Pasig-Laguna de Bay; Bicol River Basin; Abulug River Basin;Tagum River Basin; Ilog-Hilabangan; Panay River Basin;Tagoloan River Basin;Agus River Basins Davao River Basin;Cagayan de Oro River Basin; Jalaur River Basin; and the

Buayan-Malungun.

Seven months after Typhoon Sendong, Legarda noted that 3,995 families remain in evacuation centers. Sendong resulted in the loss of 1,495 lives. About P 5 billion of properties and businesses were also affected during the tragedy,

"It is difficult to make sense out of this tragedy. But it is precisely this disaster which defied our imagination hat compels us to redefine our standards of disaster preparedness," Legarda said.

"We assemble here today because we are willing to move forward, not to forget those whose lives are lost, but to make sure that nobody will have to suffer the same fate," she added.

Legarda also emphasized the need to heal the wounds of Typhoon Sendong by "reviving hope in the LGU officials, and emphasizing the role among LGU and shareholders in our fight to give our people a disaster-resilient future."

The participants are contiguous local government units (LGUs) in the periphery of the 18 major river basins (MRB) in the country consisting of 47 Provinces.

The workshop is also made possible by the assistance of the Agencia Espanola de Cooperacion International para el Desarrollo (AECID). Similar workshops were also conducted in areas in Metro Manila and the Pampanga and Bicol river basins.

Norberto Gomez, a representative from AECID, stressed in his speech the workshop was relevant in "initiating a new collaborative approach in building disaster resilient communities.

Representing Spain Ambassador Jorge Domecq, Gomez said the Government of Spain is "supporting areas of capacity building in the elaboration of contingency plans."

He batted for clear mutual accountability among relevant stakeholders.

Gomez noted how the country fared well in addressing medium term development goals through a framework of a national action plan.

Spain provided 619 million Euros to speed up program for MDGs.

In the Philippines, Gomez said about 18 Million Euros have been earmarked for addressing climate change adaptation and resiliency efforts.

" It is crucial to enhance the country's enhancing capability," Gomez said.

Ex-mayor: Renaming Oro streets – ‘stupidity’

by Nicole J. Managbanag


A FORMER City Mayor urged City Councilor Alvin Calingin to study the history and heritage of Cagayan de Oro City before he creates another ruckus that might lead to his political downfall.

Former mayor Constantino Jaraula said Calingin’s move to rename some streets of Cagayan de Oro City in favor of Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) is now beyond political selfishness and believes that it is an “act of stupidity.”

Around last week, Calingin filed three resolutions, one of which is to rename Montalvan Street to “Felix Y. Manalo Street.”

The other resolutions he filed is to declare July 27, 2012 and every year thereafter as INC Day in Cagayan de Oro City and naming the road from the junction of Concordio Diel St. and Villarin St. in Barangay Carmen to the landfill in upper Dagong up to the boundary of Barangay Canitoan as “Eraño V. Manalo St.” in honor of INC’s former executive minister.

Jaraula said he could have done the noble thing in honoring the founder and minister of INC by responding to provide them a street name.

“But it will do them more honor if we do not destroy existing land marks or historical names,” Jaraula said.

Council allots P418,000 as just compensation for affected lot owners

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, July 18 (PIA) -- The city council here is allocating P418,000 for just compensation of lot owners whose properties were affected by city government projects.

This has been set during the council's regular session presided over by Vice Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas Tuesday, July 17.

These properties are those affected by the construction of 5th Bridge Kagay-an and access road located in Barangay Macasandig, the flyover in Barangay Carmen, the existing road going to Sto. Niño Lapasan, the 8-m-wide road from Kauswagan Highway to Pasil Road passing Villa Vicente located in Barangay Kauswagan, and the construction of South Diversion Road in Barangay Camaman-an.

The legislation passed the review of the committees on the subdivision and landed estate, and on the laws and rules chaired by councilors Jose Pepe Abbu and Ramon Tabor, respectively. (EOR/CdeOSP-PIA10)

Victims, city rising from ruins of storm Sendong

by Rochie Lou A. Embodo


CAGAYAN DE ORO -- Unending clothesline dot the tent city even as the evening rain brings back memories to victims in shelter unit seven months after the devastation brought by tropical storm Sendong (international name: Washi).

At this urban center’s new central business district, meanwhile, towering structures rise even as shopping malls burst with weekend crowds. On streets surrounding Plaza Divisoria, where the old shops are located, vehicular and pedestrian traffic has increased further bringing good news to the city’s ageing merchants. “Soon, we will see bigger shopping malls and the city will have business process outsourcing offices. The city is fast recovering,” Rodolfo Meñes, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry governor for Northern Mindanao and a member of the Regional Development Council, said. The council is working double time to ensure the quick release of Sendong-related rehabilitation fund. Mary Ann D. de Leon, 40, who still lives in a tent city, recalled her life before the storm. “We were comfortable in our own home. My children went to a nearby school. My husband worked as a driver. Now, we are still uncertain until when we would stay under a tent that barely fits all six members of my family,” she said in the local language. “My children are always sick, we do not feel safe and thieves are even stealing what’s left of our things,” she further wailed. As of July 10, data from the Department of Social Welfare and Development showed that only eight evacuation centers remain in the city hosting 687 families, in contrast to 45 centers and 13,375 families shortly after Sendong’s impact in December. NEW SHELTER SITES New shelter sites for relocation contributed to the lesser number of tent city occupants. Records from the City Social Welfare and Development showed there are 18 shelter sites in the city as of July 4 that are home to 1,572 families. Other evacuees have either returned home or have relocated to safer places outside the city. Ma. Lourdes Teresita O. Perez, camp manager of Tent City 2 in Calaanan District, said remnants in tent cities are mainly sharers or renters, as those who owned houses that were destroyed are prioritized for relocation. In an interview with BusinessWorld, Mayor Vicente Y. Emano reiterated his promise that all displaced families will be transferred to permanent houses by August. As of June 28, the city social welfare office noted that out of the required 5,465 housing units, 1,369 have been completed, 810 of which were awarded. Other concerns, however, are bugging the dwellers. Anita B. Diam, 38, was one of the grantees. Though considered blessed to have a new house, she remains uncertain of her family’s fate in the near and medium terms. “We cannot call this home our own yet, we do not have the house and lot title,” she said in the local dialect. “Even if this house is more comfortable than what we had before, things will never be the same again. My husband is now back to work as a security guard and my children went to a new school. There is an additional burden. My husband used to take one ride to his workplace and spent only P14 fare per day, now, he needs to take two rides and spends P44 daily,” she added. The National Economic and Development Authority has outlined post-rehabilitation and recovery programs for those affected by the typhoon through their Strategic Action Plan. Of the P42.6 billion needed, only P3.2 billion, or just over 7%, is currently available to support post-Sendong rehabilitation projects and activities in Northern Mindanao. Leon M. Dacanay, Jr., regional economic planning director, explained that the budget for post-Sendong projects have either been included in the national budget, being processed by the local government unit, or from official development assistant. While the less fortunate are awaiting the government’s relocation program, those who have the means are taking steps to improve their lot as shown in the increasing number of clients in real estate firms. Lucien B. Amarado, real estate broker for CLM Realty Corp., said new clients want high-terrain areas that are flood-free. “Real estate pricing generally increases quarterly but because of the high demand after Sendong, it increased even faster,” she added. RECOVERY Recovering after Sendong, Cagayan de Oro remains a fast-growing urban center. Mr. Meñes said that given the region’s balanced economy, the city’s devastation was offset by strides made in other sectors. On-going construction of shopping malls and hotels have paved the way for more job opportunities and has resulted in a boom. The 18-storey Lim Ketkai Hotel and Resort and its twin building, the 33-storey Gateway Tower Mall, is under construction and is partially operational. Centrio, a multibillion-peso mixed-property joint project of Ayala Land, Inc. and Anflo Management and Investment Corp., is expected to open before the year ends.

PRO-10 announces start of 2nd semester recruitment program

by (PSupt. Ronnie Francis M. Cariaga/PRO/PIA10)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, July 16 -- The Police Regional Office (PRO)-10 announced the recruitment and selection of qualified applicants for appointment as Police Officers 1 (PO1) to fill the 95 attrition vacancies for the second semester of calendar year 2012.

This attrition quota is intended to add to the manpower complement of PRO-10 to further strengthen its capability. It shall cover the vacancies resulting from PNP personnel who left the police service as a result of their retirement, death, drop from rolls, separation, dismissal and resignation from January 1 to December 31, 2012.

The recruitment will commence on August 15.

Applicants who will successfully pass the screening process will have their oath-taking on November 16. They shall be turned over immediately to Regional Training School 10, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City to undergo the Public Safety Basic Recruit Course (PSBRC) for six months and the required field training program for another six months as requirement for the permanence of their appointment.

Applicants are required to submit their application folders with the following attachments: CSC personal data sheet, diploma and transcript of records, eligibility, birth certificate, medical and dental clearances, neuro-psychiatric test result, drug test result, fingerprint card, handwriting specimen, National Bureau of Investigation clearance, marriage contract & birth certificate of children (if married), whole body and passport size pictures, and local clearances.

For further information, interested applicants are advised to visit PRO-10 at Camp Alagar, Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City.

Outstanding teachers in N. Mindanao recognized

by Nicole J. Managbanag


IN COMMEMORATION of the 100th birth year of the late Justiniano R. Borja, Cagayan de Oro’s first elected city mayor, the Gigi V. Borja Endowment Fund recognized outstanding teachers from Northern Mindanao for their outstanding contribution during an awarding ceremony held at the City Tourism Hall.

Mitchel V. Rodriguez, Teacher III of Odiongan Central School in Gingoog City, was chosen as the 2012 Most Outstanding Public School Teacher (Mopsta).

Rodriguez took home a trophy and P70,000 cash for her most outstanding performance during the actual teaching demonstration, as observed by the Mopsta 2011-2012 committee.

She also received P15,000 cash and a computer set for her school from the Rotary Club West and GlobalChips HP.

Aside from Rodriguez, other teachers were also given recognition.

Virginia C. Rejas, Master Teacher II of Kibawe Central Elementary School, bagged first runner up and pocketed P30,000 cash plus ceiling fan and P10,000 cash for her school.

Second runner up was Aireen O. Suan, Teacher II of Kauswagan Central School, who received P20,000 cash and trophy plus ceiling fan and P5,000 cash for her school.

In third place was Reinante Noel N. Pelagio, Secondary School Teacher III of Bukidnon National High School while in fourth place was Clariza P. Catedral, Secondary School Teacher I of Ozamiz High School in Ozamiz City.

Lopelyn H. Saraus Vladez, Master Teacher I of Bukidnon High School in Malaybalay City, was awarded 5th runner up.

The three runners up were given a trophy and P5,000 cash each.

Eileen San Juan, past president of Rotary Club of West, said the Mopsta program started 30 years ago by the Rotary Club of West Cagayan de Oro, which has become a flagship project of the club under Vocational Service.

San Juan said the search for Mopsta is centered on public elementary and secondary school teachers from all divisions in Northern Mindanao with at least three successive years in teaching.

“The search for Mopsta goes through a selection process and considers the instructional competence and teaching effectiveness of the teacher, especially in the actual class demonstration and interview,” she said.

San Juan believed that the battle and the challenges of being a school teacher is in the public school system.

She also commended the Mopsta committee from the Rotary Club of West who traveled for several days to various areas around the region to meet and interview the nominees as well as witness the actual teaching performance.

San Juan said the passion, sacrifice and real dedication of the Mopsta committee has helped in sustaining the program.

Justice Romulo V. Borja, the only son of the former mayor, said their family believed strongly in education that is why they are supporting Mopsta for 20 years now.

Borja also thanked the two historical events given by the City Government in commemoration of his late father who has made a difference to Cagayan de Oro.

During the culmination night, San Juan formally opens the search for the 2012-2013 Mopsta.

She said through Mopsta, the Rotary Club West Foundation will continue to recognize the achievement, innovativeness and dedication of public school teachers and provide inspiration and encouragement to teachers to do more for the future movers of the communities.

Other benefactors of Mopsta recognized during the program were Rotary Club West Foundation Inc., GlobalChips Inc., Theresa “Bing” Celdran, Past President Almarco “Al” Brito, Past President Armando “Mandy” Tarayao, Southland Event Inc. and Past President IWC Remedios Espiritu.

‘We who protect water sources have no clean water’

by H. Marcos C. Mordeno


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews/13 July) – Speakers before him explained the technical side of managing a river basin, in the joint meeting and planning workshop of the Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro river basin management councils held today in this city. But Datu Makapukaw Adolino Saway, supreme chieftain of the Talaandig tribe in Lantapan, Bukidnon gave his fellow participants something to reflect on. “Kami nga maoy nagbantay sa kalasangan ug nagpuyo duol sa kasapaan walay limpiyong tubig.” (We who guard the forests and live near the rivers have no clean water) Saway said that while they are living near water sources in Mt. Kitanglad Range, it is hard for them to get water from springs and rivers due to the area’s rugged landscape. “You have to pass through cliffs or gullies in order to reach the creeks and rivers. In fact, this is one of the reasons why government forest guards don’t like to patrol our place, they are afraid they might break their legs,” he said in the vernacular. The lumad (indigenous people) leader explained their houses stand on elevated portions while water sources are in the lower part. “We make use of rainwater that falls from our roof made of tree bark. That’s why the water in our house is yellowish,” Saway, who lives in Barangay Songco, Lantapan said. According to a survey made in 2006 by the Kitanglad Integrated NGOs, residents of Mt. Kitanglad’s buffer zone “get drinking water from rivers, springs, streams, deep wells and flowing creeks. They use the same water sources for bathing and washing their laundry. This means that raw water from the river might be unsafe to drink because of possible contamination from human waste.” “In-house plumbing seems to be absent in the houses of the occupants,” the survey added. Lumad volunteers like Saway and the members of his tribe have been tapped to protect Mt. Kitanglad Range from timber poaching and other illegal extraction of resources. Since 1996, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has relied on these volunteers in reporting and thwarting illegal activities in the mountain range, which is a protected area. The planning workshop aimed to come up with plans for the “accelerated rehabilitation” of the interconnected river basins of Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro City. It was an offshoot of the floods caused by storm Sendong in December last year that hit northern Mindanao and killed hundreds of people and displaced thousands in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities.

Raoul Geollegue, protected area management specialist of EnterpriseWorks Worldwide Philippines, called the Cagayan de Oro river basin a “danger by design.” Geollegue, former DENR regional director for northern Mindanao, noted that the river basin’s headwaters come from two protected areas in Bukidnon – Mt. Kitanglad Range and Mt. Kalatungan Range – with high elevations and steep slopes, and rivers flanked by rock walls and high embankments. He added that large areas around the river basin no longer have enough forest cover. Its total area is around 137,000 hectares but the closed canopy forest is only 18,812 hectares owing to logging and cultivations, he said. “This is danger by stupidity,” he said. “The last ingredient to complete the disaster was the unusual path of Sendong,” he said. (H. Marcos C. Mordeno/MindaNews)

Cops nab suspected robber

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


OPERATIVES of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) Special Operations Group (CSOG) arrested Wednesday a robbery suspect in Osmeña Street in Cogon Public Market.

Police Senior Inspector Harvey Abellanosa, CSOG chief, identified the suspect as Edison Ello, 23, alias “Jason Ello,” a resident of Bolonsori in Barangay Camaman-an, Cagayan de Oro.

Abellanosa said Ello was arrested around 12:30 noon by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued by Regional Trial Court Judge Ma. Richard D. Mordeno, presiding judge of Branch 22, for robbery with violence with a recommended bail bond of P100,000.

He said Ello’s arrest was also made possible through the help of the Barangay Intelligence Network.

Police record shows that Ello had previous cases of rape and robbery.

Ello is now temporarily detained at the Maharlika Detention Center pending his transfer to the Lumbia Rehabilitation Center.

Lalanto, Ybanez rule age-group triathlon

by Manila Standard


In what was the biggest and so far the best organized Century Tuna National Age-Group Triathlon race in Cagayan de Oro City, hometown favorites and Philippine developmental pool members Sixto Lalanto and Mary Claudine Ybanez won their respective titles in contrasting fashion.

In front of hundreds of spectators, who lined the bike and run course, Lalanto easily outclassed his rivals in the 750-meter swim— 20-Km bike—5-Km run event to win the junior sprint title in one hour, three minutes and 48 seconds. On the other hand, Ybanez had to come back from four minutes behind in transition two by overtaking Annabelle Dominique Torres during the final kilometer of the run.

Other champions in the CDO Misamis Oriental-organized event hosted by Chali Beach Resort and sponsored by Arena, Columbia SportsWear Company, Aling Nona’s Lechon, NorthFace, Kagay River Rafting, Cagayan de Oro Vice-Mayor Ian E. Acenas, City Councilor Ian Nacaya, Pamakid Trading and Milling and 100 Plus, are Mary Pauline Fornea (Female 17-19), Kathlene Co (Female 20-29), Shai Bacus (Female 30-over), Banjo Norte (17-19), Peter Villocino (20-24), Jean Patrick Serrano (25-29), Jemarvin Cabilan (30-34), Christopher Eyao (35-39), Ferdinand Sogoc (40-44), Tenggoy Colmenares (45-49), Allen Nitollama (50-54), Killu Kunimoto (60-over), Magaro/Pamisa (Sprint Distance Relay) and Parantar/Dedoyco (Standard Distance Relay).

Local officials were very pleased to see the number of participants reach 155 this year (versus 2011’s 85), which includes participants coming from Cebu, Bukidnon, Bohol, Davao, Misamis Oriental, General Santos City and CDO.

Increase in HIV/AIDS cases in Oro alarming

by Abigail C. Malalis


AT LEAST 69 persons in Northern Mindanao region were found positive of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV-AIDS), with Cagayan de Oro City (CDO) having the highest number of cases.

This was announced by Councilor Dante Pajo on Tuesday during a meeting with the AIDS assistance regional team.

Pajo said a significant increase of AIDS cases in CDO is very alarming.

“From 36 cases in May to 42 as of Tuesday and still counting, this is very alarming,” Pajo said.

He said another patient, a 29-year-old, died last month in a hospital in CDO.

Jun Galban, spokesperson of the Department of Health (DOH)-Northern Mindanao, said that even Camiguin province, which has zero cases before, has recorded six new cases of “reactive” patients. But he said they are still waiting for the final result of the samples and tests from Manila for confirmation.

Galban said Iligan City also recorded an increase of HIV patients, including Bukidnon province.

Meanwhile, age group of patients found to be HIV positive are reportedly getting younger as the city recorded the youngest HIV positive - a 21-year-old patient.

“Based on our records, patients come from different religious denominations and it only shows anybody can have it,” Mahinay said.

Alagad Mindanao is an alliance of non-government organizations, people’s organizations, institutions and individuals involved in sexually transmitted infections (STI), HIV and AIDS prevention, care and support to people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Mindanao.

The Philippines is listed by the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (Unaids) as one of the seven countries with increasing infection rates in 2010.

In 2012, an estimated 27,840 cases of HIV/AIDS will be recorded in the Philippines and is still expected to climb to as high as 35,940 in 2015, according to Susan Gregorio, executive director of the government’s AIDS council.

Gregorio said infection rates are increasing particularly among homosexual men and are spreading outside highly-urbanized areas where the virus used to be concentrated.

Misamis Oriental guv will run for mayor in 2013

by Annabelle L. Ricalde/Abigail Chee Kee Malalis


IT’S official - Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar Moreno will run for mayor in Cagayan de Oro City in 2013.

Moreno announced this during his State of the Province Address (Sopa) on Monday at the Provincial Capitol.

“This October, I will file my certificate of candidacy (COC) for mayor of Cagayan de Oro. I will offer myself to serve the people of Cagayan de Oro,” Moreno said.

The governor vowed to pursue his plan to “reach the higher level in making Cagayan de Oro and the entire Northern Mindanao more progressive.”

Moreno said this political move is “not going to be easy, especially that the demolition job and the intrigues” against him and his family is going on.

Moreno cited the latest intrigues between him and his elder brother who reportedly visited the office of incumbent Mayor Vicente Emano allegedly expressing his ill-feelings against the governor.

But while admitting that he and his brother have differences, Moreno emphasized that this would not change the “love and bond their parents taught them.”

“I hope next year we will be in City Hall. There are so many things that we can do together to bring about a better tomorrow. Gone are the days when politicians dominate the people. It is the time for empowerment,” Moreno said.

He said he envisions Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental working together and drawing strength from each other.

But even with his announcement, Moreno vowed to serve the people of Misamis Oriental the best way he can until June 2013.

Meanwhile, City Councilor Edgar Cabanlas advised Moreno to strengthen his political structure to win the elections.

Cabanlas said Moreno has to build up his political structure and process of realignment for next year’s election.

He said Moreno’s governance will further improve the city and bring it to a higher level in terms of economic development.

“I anticipated that he will bring his spirit of governance to Cagayan de Oro, just like what he did to Misamis Oriental,” Cabanlas said.

Cabanlas, who was a member of the Provincial Board (PB) for 10 consecutive years under the administration of Emano as then governor, said he can’t help but compare Moreno’s accomplishments in the province amid criticisms and obstacles he faced from the majority members.

“During Emano’s term, he was not able to improve hospitals and schools in Misamis Oriental, to think that he did not have any opponent in the PB, unlike Moreno that majority of the PB members are against him,” Cabanlas said.

AXA Philippines opens Cagayan de Oro branch

by philstar.com

Manila, Philippines - The opening of the new AXA Philippines branch in Cagayan de Oro City brings the world’s number one insurance brand (Interbrand Report, 2011) to Cagayanons and allows them to avail themselves of the best-fit instruments that will support them to secure their financial future. “With the opening of our Cagayan de Oro City branch, AXA Philippines is continuing its expansion in Mindanao and throughout the country. Our new branch is here to give customers what they need. Now, Cagayanons will have access to customized financial solutions that AXA offers,” said Rahul Hora, AXA Philippines chief agency officer. “In AXA, we say we redefine standards. And when we redefine standards, we do things for the better to make our services more available, our approach more attentive and the delivery more reliable,” said Rien Hermans, AXA Philippines president and chief executive officer. When it started operations in 1999, AXA Philippines pioneered, and continues to innovate on its variable life products, making it one of the top life insurance companies in the country. AXA Philippines ranks third in the industry based on total premiums, serving over 130,000 individual clients and over 160,000 group certificate holders. Its assets under management are currently valued at almost P40 billion. AXA’s investments are managed by the Metrobank Trust Banking Group, the country’s most consistent and top-performing fund management group. This partnership makes AXA most effective in helping clients plan their life goals for income protection, education, retirement, critical illness protection, and estate planning. The new branch in Cagayan de Oro City is located at the 3/F CKY Center on the corner of Capistrano and Chavez streets. It falls under the management of zone head Xenas Kintanar. AXA also has branches in the cities of Iligan, Davao and General Santos.

Police chief urged to create a council of elders

by Nicole J. Managbanag


DUE to the series of robbery and crimes in Cagayan de Oro City, which still remain unsolved, a retired police director is urging Senior Superintendent Gerardo Rosales of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) to create a council of elders coming from a group of retired policemen.

Retired police Honorio S. Cervantes, currently a village councilman of Pagatpat and a member of the People’s Law Enforcement Board (Pleb), said the council of elders can give advice that would somehow help solve crimes in the city.

Cervantes, who is also the vice president of the Cagayan de Oro Federations of Senior Citizens Association, said being a civilian and a concerned citizen, “we are more than willing to have a coffee break with Rosales and talk over different solutions that might help solve the problems he is facing right now.”

On Thursday last week, a branch of LBC in Barangay Gusa was robbed by three armed men who took away more than P10,000 cash; while last Monday, a loading station was also robbed by two armed suspects, carting away about half a million pesos worth of cash and card loads.

On Tuesday, a salesman was also held up of his day’s earnings worth P25,000 by three armed suspects

Cervantes said Rosales can get helpful information from the elders, who were once active in looking over the peace and order in Cagayan de Oro City.

“Seeking an advice to the elders doesn’t mean that we will take over his position. We will only serve as advisor for effective techniques in solving crimes that has somehow worked during our time since in effective planning, more heads are better than one,” he said.

Cervantes said Cagayan de Oro is just a small city and that crimes can easily be solved if only police personnel will focus on their job.

Cervantes advised Rosales to be active, alert and visible by doing visitations in every community and barangay of the city.

“And get to know small details that might help in avoiding the occurrence of crimes,” Cervantes said.

BJMP conducts reforestation along shorelines, riverbanks

by Jeza Mae Sarah Sanchez/BJMP/PIA10


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, July 7 -- The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) here in Northern Mindanao organized a “Clean and Green Fun Drive” last June 23 at the seven-hectare DENR coastal-protective area along Barangay Taytay, El Salvador City.

“Aside from serving as valuable nursery areas for shrimp, crustaceans and fishes, mangroves are also said to protect our shorelines from damaging storms and waves,” said Teddy Manit, Coastal and Marine Management Division Chief, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), during a short orientation that served to jumpstart the activity.

Joined in by a total of 245 participants composed of youth leaders from the National Youth Commission in cities of Cagayan de Oro and El Salvador, members of the Tactical Operations Group-10 of the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army (4ID), Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of Education-El Salvador, El Salvador city government, Barangay Taytay Council, Bantay-Dagat El Salvador, students from Capitol University, and Just Circle of Alubijid, the reforestation activity planted 2,500 mangroves.

Personnel of BJMP in Iligan City were also able plant 100 seedlings in Barangay Tipanoy last June 24. The seedlings were given by the City Agriculture Office and were planted along the riverbanks of the said barangay.

“Today’s time calls for a more receptive approach in reducing existing vulnerability of our region. Everyone—government agencies, youth leaders, the public—must do his/her share in helping the community adapt to climate change through proactive approach,” said Jail Sr. Inspector Francis Acelo, BJMP-10 spokesperson.

The activities are in line with BJMP's Community Relations Month.

BJMP is on its 21st year, being one of the tri-bureau of the Department of Interior and Local Government, and is continually pushing its personnel to provide services to the community other than their usual tasks of inmates’ safekeeping and development.

Disability office shows non-handicapping successes in Opol town

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, July 6 (PIA) -- Capping the two-day Non-Handicapping Environment (NHE) Forum with a study tour, the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) showcased today NHE project sites to participating local government units from regions 10 and 6

The activity aims to demonstrate before the participants the experiences and achievements in adopting the NHE project, which was first piloted in Opol, Misamis Oriental and New Lucena in Iloilo Province last 2008.

It facilitates visits to public and private establishments with accessible facilities designed friendly to persons with disabilities (PWDs), sharing of experiences, meeting with PWDs and their families, and witnessing the NHE barangay based approach in Barangay Barra, Opol.

After the tour, participants plannied their own approach and proposals for the NHE expansion program, as to how they can best adopt the concept in their respective localities.

Sachiko Takeda, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Philippines senior representative, one of NHE project proponent, challenged participating LGUs. He urged them to provide real access and harmonize PWDs support in the community. (PIA 10)

Council calls for cooperation of LGUs in non-handicapping environment

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, July 5 (PIA) -- The National Council on Disability (NCDA) appeals for cooperation from the local government units to be more responsive in creating policies that complements national laws on the protection of persons with disabilities (PWDs).

NCDA Acting Executive Director, Carmen R. Zubiaga, said that disability has now evolved from an object of charity acclaimed holder of rights.

“We don’t want to be left behind just because we lack of access, we don’t want to be left in the confines of our homes just because our family or the community is not recognizing the right of PWDS to become part of a larger community,” she said.

She said they struggled just to get access in almost everything, be it in education, field environment, and even on getting respect from the community folks.

Zubiaga expressed this during the opening of the two-day Non-Handicapping Environment (NHE) Forum yesterday at the Dynasty Court Hotel.

The forum is organized by NCDA and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to showcase and demonstrate the implementation of the project which is piloted in Opol, Misamis Oriental and New Lucena in Iloilo province.

She urged local government units to replicate the NHE project.

“The NHE concept aims to create a barrier-free environment for PWDs, especially in the rural communities, to further enhance their participation in the society,” she said.

The forum is opening is joined by JICA Philippine Officer Senior Representative, Sachiko Takeda; Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) Executive Director, Akiie Ninomiya; Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar S. Moreno; Region 10 Social Welfare Director , Atty. Araceli F. Solamillo and Department of Social Welfare and Development Office 6 Regional Director, Dr. Minda B. Brigoli.

It is highlighted with the launching of the NHE booklet, which is presented to NCDA, JICA, and APCD officials present. (PIA 10)

House probe on PNP’s questionable P1B deal with private firm pushed

by Karen Boncocan


MANILA, Philippines—Lawmakers on Tuesday urged the House committee on public order and safety for the investigation into an allegedly anomalous P1 billion license deal that the Philippine National Police entered with a private firm. Cagayan de Oro City Representative Rufus Rodriguez and Abante Mindanao Party-list Representative Maximo Rodriguez Jr. said an investigation should be done since the PNP allegedly failed to conduct proper bidding when it signed back in March 2010 a memorandum of agreement with Nanjing Industrial Tools and Equipment Co. for the printing of service firearms license cards for police and security guards. The two lawmakers authored House Resolution 2459 and asked the committee to summon the police officials, Nanjing representatives and other officers of concerned government agencies during the course of the investigation. PNP’s contract with Nanjing indicated that the latter would print license cards priced at P150 each. The MOA covers 15 years of the said service which amounted to P1.135 billion. The MOA’s signatories are former PNP chief Jesus Versoza, PNP director for logistics Luizo Ticman and Romeo Macapinlac, president of Nanjing. “One such provision that merits review states that the P150 fee for license cards be paid directly to Nanjing without a standard government payment order,” said the Cagayan de Oro lawmaker. He added the contract should be studied by the committee, pointing to reported ambiguous provisions in the contract which indicated that Nanjing had the right to pull out its materials and equipment should the project be aborted or cancelled prior to completion. “(It is) necessary so we can fine tune and strengthen the government procurement reform law,” he said, citing Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act, which states that “all procurement shall be done through competitive bidding” and the law “shall apply to the procurement of infrastructure projects, goods and consulting services, regardless of source of funds, whether local or foreign, by all branches and instrumentalities of government, its departments, offices and agencies, including government-owned and/or controlled corporations and local government units.”

Habitat renews partnership with DSWD-10

by Apipa P. Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, July 3 (PIA) -- Habitat for Humanity (HFH) International renewed its partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 10 in providing shelters to survivors of tropical storm Sendong in Northern Mindanao.

Mike Carscaddon, Executive Vice President of HFH International, recently met with Araceli F. Solamillo, lawyer, of DSWD-10 Regional to renew its commitment with the agency in constructing core shelter units here and in Iligan City.

Carscaddon, together with HFH Disaster Response Head David Liban Jr, HFH Philippines Director Leonilo Escalada and Rodolfo Santos Jr of HFH procurement, expressed appreciation to Solamillo and the DSWD for trusting them in extending assistance to the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in both cities through constructing shelter units.

Carscaddon, who is based in Atlanta, Georgia, was here recently to inspect the housing units constructed by HFH Philippines in the resettlement sites in Barangays Canitoan and Indahag in this city, as well as in Iligan City to inspect the lot donated by the city government in preparation for the construction of core shelter units for the IDPs.

The Iligan city council has already passed a resolution authorizing Mayor Lawrence Cruz to enter into agreement with HFH Philippines. Currently, HFH Philippines and the local government of Iligan City are still on the final stage in drafting the memorandum of agreement.

During his visit, Carscaddon also lauded Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Vicente Emano for closely coordinating with the DSWD and the HFH in fast tracking the construction of housing units here.

Solamillo reminded HFH Philippines on finishing at least 7,000 units this August 2012 in consonance to the commitment of President Benigno Aquino III to the IDPs when he turned over the more than 700 housing units to IDPs last April 27.

Escalada disclosed that Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is replicating the system that DSWD-10 and HFH had implemented during the recovery and rehabilitation stage of Sendong.

He further disclosed that HFH will build the same core shelter units in Isabela, Basilan, and Maguindanao.

An international non-governmental and non-profit organization, HFH is devoted to building simple, decent, and affordable housing in partnership with people in need. (Oliver Badel Inodeo-DSWD10/APB-PIA 10)

Pag-IBIG Fund urges members to register online

by www.pia.gov.ph


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, July 2 (PIA) -- The Home Development Mutual Fund, also known as Pag-IBIG Fund, is calling all its members to comply with the Fund’s Online Membership Registration.

According to a press release by the Pag-IBIG Fund Cagayan de Oro branch, all Pag-IBIG Fund members must register online at www.pagibigfund.gov.ph.

The member will then be assigned a Registration Tracking Number (RTN) as a reference for his/her successful online membership registration.

After which, members must submit their duly accomplished Members Data Form (MDF) to their respective Human Resource or Personnel Officer who will in turn submit the MDFs together with a corresponding transmittal indicating the members complete name and the corresponding RTN to the Marketing and Enforcement Division of Pag-IBIG Fund on or before July 31, 2012.

“This will serve as the basis for the printing of the Member’s Identification (MID),” said Branch Manager Juliano S. Banghal.

Currently, the Fund is printing transactions cards of all its members bearing their complete name, date of birth, permanent Pag-IBIG Fund MID number and security code, as well.

“Members, who already received their transaction cards in the previous years, are still required to register online at our official website, for the incorporation of their personal data, which is needed for the implementation of the new Integrated Information Systems Project (IISP),” Banghal added.

He, thus, urged heads of offices to impose the compliance of the online membership registration to all their employees. He also called on companies/employers to likewise register online.

For further details, concerned agencies or individuals may coordinate Kathy Mae Bautista or any staff from the Marketing and Enforcement Division of the Pag-IBIG Fund Cagayan de Oro Branch at telephone numbers (08822) 726348, 722800, (088) 8561861 to 62 local 211, 218, 219. (APB/PIA-10)

US Assists 10 Mindanao Companies to Meet Global Export Standards

by The MINDANAO CURRENT


United States Agency for International Development Mission Director Gloria D. Steele and Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Cities Development Initiative in Cagayan de Oro. U.S. Ambassador Harry K. Thomas, Jr., Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya, Department of Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Austere Panadero, Congressman Rufus B. Rodriguez and Oro Chamber President Ma. Teresa Alegrio witnessed the signing. In his remarks, U.S. Ambassador Harry K. Thomas, Jr. said, “The Cities Development Initiative is our contribution to Cagayan de Oro’s commitment to grow its economy so that more people can benefit from education, from health, and from business opportunities while still taking care of the environment. We will partner with government, the private sector and civil society to ensure our programs have a positive impact. This initiative is just one of many facets of the U.S. –Philippine Partnership for Growth, which is working hard every day to encourage inclusive and sustainable economic growth here.” The U.S. –Philippines Partnership for Growth is helping the Philippines achieve its high growth potential by supporting a more transparent, predictable, and consistent legal and regulatory regime; fostering a more open and competitive business environment; strengthening the rule of law; and strengthening fiscal stability. Cagayan de Oro is the third Cities Development Initiative partner. The other two cities participating in the initiative are Batangas City and Iloilo City. The day before, Ambassador Harry K. Thomas Jr. recognized 10 companies in Mindanao that obtained the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) and ISO 17025 certifications following assistance from the United States Agency for International Development. HACCP is a system that ensures food production meets safety requirements to protect public health. ISO 17025 makes sure that laboratories that test products meet certain requirements. Also present at the event were Mission Director Gloria Steele, Mindanao Development Authority Chairperson Secretary Luwalhati Antonino and the Department of Trade and Industry Regional Director. The 10 companies were Vjandep Foods, Perfectly Natural Herbs Corp., Lucille’s Food Products, Renova Foods, San Isidro Cooperative, Lao Integrated Farms, Magpet Agro-Industrial Cooperative, Magsilum ARC Cooperative, Fast Laboratories and Philexport Quality Control Laboratory. “By meeting the stringent food quality and safety requirements for HACCP certification, you increase the prospects of entering new export markets and selling to the world’s most discriminating buyers,” Ambassador Thomas said in his remarks during the awarding ceremony at N Hotel.

In 2009, USAID, through its Growth with Equity in Mindanao program, initiated the HACCP Certification Assistance Project to provide technical assistance to selected Mindanao companies in developing systems and procedures needed for HACCP compliance and HACCP certification from an internationally recognized third-party certifying agency. Last year, USAID expanded its program to include technical assistance for the acquisition of ISO 17025 certification. The food safety and quality management system is required by foreign food regulatory agencies primarily in the United States and Europe for laboratories certifying food samples for the export market. Since the launching of Certification Assistance Project, USAID has successfully assisted 24 companies in obtaining HACCP and ISO 17025 certification. Total collective increase in sales of these companies is estimated at $20 million. Mission Director Steele said, “The U.S. government, through USAID, is enabling Mindanao firms and business support organizations to expand exports and create jobs and opportunities to help the region achieve broad-based and inclusive economic growth.”

USAID Mission Director Gloria D. Steele, seated second from left, and Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano, third from left sign the Memorandum of Understanding to launch the U.S. AID Cities Development Initiative with USAmbassador Harry K. Thomas, Jr, Congressman Rufus Rodriguez, DILG Undersecretary Austere Panadero and DTI Underscretary Zenaida Maglaya as witnesses. Photo by Ed Montalvan

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