Cagayan de Oro City News June 2012

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US Ambassador graces launch of USAID project in Cagayan de Oro

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, June 30 (PIA) -- United States Ambassador Harry K. Thomas graced the launch of US Agency for International Development (USAID) Cities Development Initiative (CDI) on June 29, Friday in Cagayan de Oro City.

USAID Mission Director for the Philippines Gloria D. Steele and City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano forged a memorandum of understanding, witnessed by the Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya and Department of Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Austere Padadero.

In his remarks, Ambassador Thomas stressed on the US government's commitment to the Philippines.

“This occasion shows not only our commitment to you, but also the potential, that we believe that you have the transparency and honesty to undertake the program,” he said.

He also said that the Philippines is among four countries in the world which the US government, through the partnership for growth (PGF), brings 15 federal agencies to provide assistance that will advance the country’s economic development.

“We have recognized your tremendous efforts to rehabilitate and reconstruct your city from terrible devastation by tropical Sendong, last year. We know that CDI will prosper here, continuing the construction and development, as well as, in increasing the dynamism of the city,” he added.

He likewise commended the leadership of Emano and the people for maintaining the city’s long term economic growth.

Cagayan de Oro City is among the three CDI pilot areas in the country. The other two cities participating in the initiative are Batangas City and Iloilo City. This initiative according to USAID Mission Director Gloria D. Steele is piloting on something that none of any USAID offices around the world has done, that is, for cities to act as engines of economic growth. It is built on the premise that economic growth and job creation are closely linked to urban development. (PIA10)

Three-day nursery and handicrafts training set in Misamis Oriental

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, June 29 (PIA) -- A three-day training on basic bamboo nursery preparation and handicrafts making opened last June 27 in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental with mostly teachers from all school divisions in Northern Mindanao as participants.

This is an inter-agency training spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the local government of Villanueva under the Best Action for Mobilizing Barangay Organizations for Opportunities in Education, Environment, and Entrepreneurship Project.

Laurencia O. Llagas, Education Program Specialist of DepEd 10, stressed that the project aims to equip teachers in the field, as well as other stakeholders, with the technical skills on bamboo handling and handicrafts.

She urged participants to maximize the opportunity as they have labored to ensure they will be provided with competent trainers from the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology.

DOST equipment donated to the local government of Villanueva were set at the Vicente N. Chaves Memorial Central School, which served as the venue for the three-day special training.

Cecille A. Acaac, Misamis Oriental DOST Provincial Director, urged participants to make use of this opportunity as there is good prospect in the market for bamboo products. She further said that their office is also extending technology upgrading assistance to small enterprises especially on bamboo products.

A set of 30 participants were selected to compose the bamboo training.

Sabdullah C. Abubakar, technical director, Environment Management Bureau, Department of Environment and Natural Resources 10 Regional, committed to provide some 50 bamboo propagules that will be used in planting the activity to cap the three-day event. (PIA 10)

Partner of slain woman to face murder raps

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


AUTHORITIES are preparing to file murder charges against the live-in partner of a woman who was brutally killed last May 2012 and whose body was found in a cemetery in Kinoguitan, Misamis Oriental.

Police Chief Inspector Norberto Zafra, station commander of Police Station 5 in Macabalan, told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro that the case is set for filing against Charles James Balboa.

Balboa is the prime suspect in the killing of Generosa Savella, 39, a native of Camiguin province and was working as sales representative of Puyat Steel Corporation located in Barangay Puntod, Cagayan de Oro City.

Savella was earlier reported missing.

Zafra said Balboa’s last whereabouts was in Bukidnon, based on the information gathered from his parents.

“He informed his parents three weeks ago that he will go to Bukidnon,” he said.

Once the case is filed, Zafra said, the court will issue an arrest warrant against the suspect.

Last May 30, Savella’s body was found inside the cemetery in Kinoguitan town, according to Police Senior Inspector Julito Olaco, station commander of Kinoguitan Municipal Police Station.

Olaco said the body was wrapped with a bed sheet and a carpet and was placed inside a sack.

He said the victim’s body had several bruises and stab wounds.

At first, the body was not identified but someone from Kinoguitan who is reportedly a relative of the victim claimed the body and had it buried since it already emitted foul smell, police said.

But the victim’s body was then exhumed after two women who identified themselves as the sisters of Savella went to the police office to claim the body, Olaco said.

The exhumation was made after the vehicle owned by Savella was discovered in San Juan II, Barangay Lapasan the other week.

Responding personnel of the Scene of the Crime Operatives discovered that there was blood at the compartment of the vehicle that caused the bad odor.

Police said there are speculations that the body was placed in the vehicle before it was thrown to Kinoguitan.

Based on police initial investigation, the vehicle was parked near the house of Balboa, and he was the last person who used Savella’s vehicle, according to witnesses.

Health firms asked on medical wastes disposal

by Published in the Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro newspaper


COUNCILOR President Elipe, chairperson of the Cagayan de Oro City Council committee on environment, is inviting management of different hospitals, dialysis centers and other medical establishments to attend its meeting on Thursday.

This, as the environment and health committees jointly studying the proposal for the establishment of a Centralized Infectious Medical Waste Processing Facility within the city's landfill area in Upper Dagong, Carmen.

The proposal was submitted by Roland Ramos of the Basura Atbp Inc. The company forged partnership with RAD Green Solutions, which developed the Pyroclave System, a registered medical waste processor.

The centralized facility will allow all healthcare establishments within the city to comply with the proper management of infectious medical wastes.

Once implemented, all healthcare establishments will be provided with medical waste containers and transported in a refrigerated van to ensure its safe and proper transportation.

The committee on environment held initial discussions on this during its meeting yesterday.

Elipe said pertinent ordinances and rules on medical waste disposal will also be tackled. (PR)

7 core events to highlight Kagay-an Festival 2012

by Lorebeth C. Requiroso/CdeOSP/PIA10


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 26 (PIA) -- Seven core events will highlight the much awaited Kagay-an Festival 2012. The executive committee chaired by vice mayor Caesar Ian Acenas agreed upon the events during its meeting on Friday, June 22. Mayor Vicente Emano created the executive committee by virtue of Executive Order No. 047-22012 to prepare, plan, organize and implement programs and activities for the annual feast of the city’s patron saint, St. Augustine. Vice Mayor Acenas said the core events include the search for Miss Kagay-an 2012, Agro Fair, Rodeo and Horse Show, Kagay-an 2012 Cultural Street Dancing Competition, the Kagay-an P.E. Rhythmic Dance, Kagay-an Festival Parade (Civic-Military and Golden Float parade), Kagay-an Festival Run and Pyrolympics. Likewise, Vice Mayor Acenas created working committees that are looking into the details of these events and other highlights of the month-long festivities. The finance and ways and means committee headed by councilor Simeon Licayan created a subcommittee to look into a partnership between the city government and the private sector for the Kagay-an Festival 2012. Meanwhile, preparations for the Duaw Kagay-an 2012 is being mulled by the special events committee headed by Councilor Dacer. According to Supervising Tourism Officer Imma Rae Gatuslao, Kagay-anons who are now based in the United States and other countries are again expected to visit Cagayan de Oro to join the festivities. Aside from hosting a special dinner for their homecoming, the city will be touring them to investment sites as well as relocation areas.

Concert to cap CdeO observance of environmental month

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 25 (PIA) – In the observance of Environment Month, the city government here has intensified its tree planting campaign and education drive on proper waste disposal.

Other activities include coastal clean-up drives in coastal barangays, and seminars and orientations on solid waste management.

An environmental awareness concert called “Han-ay Cagayan” also be heldon June 30 at the Rodelsa Circle, to cap the activities.

Tree planting activities had been undertaken recently in the city’s relocation sites as well as along the Iponan River, Cagayan River, and other key areas all over the city, Mayor Vicente Y. Emano said.

The free concert is sponsored by the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO) under Janet Deguinion and the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources of Kagawad President Elipe, in partnership with the Basura, At Iba Pa, Inc. (BAI). (CIO/EOR-PIA10)

Love and Promises

by Nicole J. Managbanag


SEPARATION and divorce seem to be a normal thing in today’s setting. We seldom find a couple managing to stay together through thick and thin.

But in Cagayan de Oro, I got a rare opportunity of witnessing a ceremony where 22 couples renewed their vows.

The couples publicly re-commit their relationship by expressing their enduring love for each other.

Vow renewal involves no legal paperwork. Thus, it is not a legally binding ceremony since married couples are already bound for life the day when they got married.

On May 20, the 22 couples renewed their vows at the Philadelphian Full-Gospel Worldwide Ministries Inc. in Barangay Indahag under the leadership of Supreme Bishop Dr. Romeo D. Puentespina.

I witnessed the occasion since a very good friend of mine, Joey Nacalaban, SunStar Cagayan de Oro’s photojournalist, is among those who renewed his vow to his wife of 22 years, Maria Theresa.

Joey invited me to be their official photographer. He wanted that day to be hassle-free so he tagged me along to do his work, even just for that special occasion.

During that big day, love was in the air as the brides were beautifully made up, dressed in their wedding gowns.

The grooms were equally handsome in their tuxedos and barongs, waiting for their brides to walk down the aisle.

Everyone seemed so excited and sentimental, just like the first time when they walked down the aisles many years ago.

My heart was oozing with sentiment, seeing the grooms took the hand of their brides and head toward the altar along with their children and some grandchildren.

The mass renewal of vows was somehow the most essential element for the couples as it was the perfect time for them to pause and reflect on where they have been, what they have gone through, and where they are heading.

My captured photos had given me an impression that these couples who recited the same words they uttered during their wedding are more attuned to the present state of their relationship. They looked happier and more relaxed during their renewal of vows as they have given love another chance, this time, it would certainly be much sweeter.

As the wedding is about to end, Pastor Romie officially proclaimed to the public that the couples have officially renewed their vows to each other, promising to hold on to each other through thick and thin.

The happy couples, including Joey, danced the waltz, feeling super happy and in love again for the second time around.

While the couples were dancing, their children were also transformed into waiters and waitresses as they prepared the venue for the reception.

It was a very happy occasion that even their children performed songs and served them food.

After the celebration, I went home pondering if I could also renew my vow with my husband. At the same time, I felt happy that I was able to witness this event, which I considered historic.

Telco volunteers refurbish schools

by newsinfo.inquirer.net


Globe Telecom volunteers in Metro Manila, Cebu and Cagayan de Oro trooped to various schools on May 26 to join the Department of Education’s (DepEd) annual school maintenance program called Brigada Eskwela. In Cebu, Globe volunteers funded and painted a new library of Tulay National High School in barangay Tulay, Minglanilla town. In Manila, Globe volunteers headed to Daanghari Elementary School in Navotas. The team, along with community members, volunteers from the SM Zone One Tondo Organization (SM Zoto) and United Nations Volunteers painted classroom walls, school chairs and tables. The volunteers also visited and painted school buildings at Jose Fabella Memorial School in Mandaluyong City on June 2. In Cagayan de Oro City, the Cagayan de Oro Central School served as the beneficiaries of Globe’s cleanup activity. “The support from employees nationwide for Brigada Eskwela is a testament to how the company values and encourages employee volunteerism and active citizenship. We fully support DepEd’s initiatives for Brigada Eskwela and are happy to partner with United Nations volunteers, as well as work with groups like SM Zoto, to make significant contributions in various communities,” said Globe corporate social responsibility head Rob Nazal.

Opol and Cagayan de Oro LGUs recipients of Skills Registry System

by Apipa P. Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 22 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Misamis Oriental West will make the municipal government of Opol and the city government of Cagayan de Oro the next repository of manpower skills database, known as the Skills Registry System (SRS).

This was announced by Rodrigo A. Deloso, OIC of DOLE MisOr West during the awarding ceremony of the 2012 Outstanding Skilled Workers of Opol last month.

The registry system is designed to facilitate quick search for human resources and work expertise for local and overseas employment. It serves as warehouse for job seekers and possible employers requiring competence, right skills and the right person for a job.

The registry system also complements Philjobnet, an online data center, by supplying skills information for wider and universal use through the internet.

In Region 10, the SRS mainstreamed the town of Lugait, still in Misamis Oriental, because of its readiness to handle the system with industries set in the town and the size of available skilled workers. The local government unit of Lugait pioneered in the implementation, with Initao and Laguindingan following after.

“I am pleased to note that we are now at par with other countries which adapt a similar system like the SRS," said Deloso

Talks between the DOLE and LGUs are now being carried out to come up with an understanding on how the SRS should be used. A memorandum will be inked stipulating the agreements to achieve the objectives of SRS.

Under this, the DOLE will to provide a computer unit installed with the system, photocopier, printer with scanner, external memory, and USB to support recovery of files in case the system is down, and a P100 internet card, while LGUs are encouraged to employ an IT expert to maintain the system.

A focal person will also be assigned by barangays to ensure the regular submission of report and updates on manpower and skills of their respective areas. (Aloha Balhon-Jaudian, DOLE-MisOr West/APB-PIA 10)

Bill limiting President's appointment powers filed in Congress

by philstar.com


MANILA, Philippines - A member of the House of Representatives has filed a bill limiting the President's appointment powers.

Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez filed House Bill 1647, which proposes to limit the power of the President to reappoint officials bypassed by the Commission on Appointments (CA).

"This practice of simply reappointing a presidential nominee even after several bypasses by the Commission on Appointments (CA) subverts the principle of confirmation mandated by the Constitution," Rodriguez said..

Rodriguez cited the Constitution's Article VII, which states that "the President shall nominate and, with the consent of the Commission of Appointments, appoint the heads of the executive departments, ambassadors, other public ministers and consults, or officers of the armed forces from the rank of colonel or naval captain, and other officers whose appointments are vested in him in this Constitution."

Rodriguez said the Constitution further states that "the President shall have the power to make appointments during the recess of the Congress, whether voluntary or compulsory, but such appointments shall be effective only until disapproval by the Commission on Appointments or until the next adjournment of Congress."

"The CA is usually reluctant to reject outright the presidential nominees, hence, would not confirm the appointment resulting in bypass," explained Rodriguez.

Rodriguez said the situation makes a mockery of the constitutional duties of the CA to confirm and reject presidential appointees on the basis of the check and balance powers of the legislative branch of the government.

Under the bill, the nominees will be asked to submit to the CA the documentary requirements within 30 days from receipt of his nomination or appointment. Failure to submit the same within the required period is equivalent to one bypass. Failure to submit the requirements within 60 days shall cause the disapproval of nomination or appointment.

The bill also provides that nominees who have been bypassed twice should no longer be eligible for reappointment by the President.

The bill also states the effect of disapproval by the CA - "nominees who have been disapproved by a vote of the CA shall no longer be eligible for reappointment by the president."

Blood summit in PPP program's list

by Nicole J. Managbanag


"BLOOD offering" will now be part of the City Government's public-private partnership (PPP) program, City Councilor Dante Pajo said, after the success of the first blood summit on Tuesday at the City Hall of Cagayan de Oro.

Pajo said more than 300 blood donors donated blood during the said activity.

"The City Government will ensure the continued campaign for blood donations in order to produce sufficient and safe blood supply for the people in the city," Pajo said.

Aside from the yearly blood-letting activity, Pajo said the blood summit will now become a regular activity of the City Government, whenever there is PPP in every barangay.

"Our team will also conduct bloodletting activities to address the scarcity of blood," Pajo said.

Pajo guarantees that all of the donated blood will be properly screened before it will be turned over to the blood banks.

While the blood supply is available to everyone, Pajo said the city residents will be the priority to avail it.

DILG-10 to hold disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation program

by (Hazel L. Occena/DILG/PIA10)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 19 -- A consultation of disaster management stakeholders will be held this month to raise awareness on the nature and management of disaster, in order to develop a culture of preparedness among government officials and the public.

The Tapatan on Disaster Preparedness and Climate Change Adaptation with the theme “Katalagman, Atong Pangandaman” will be held on June 21 at Grand Caprice Restaurant, this city.

The event brings together representatives of the national government agencies, industry actors practicing corporate social responsibility, non-government organizations, media practitioners, disaster risk reduction and management officers, and the local chief executives in the region to forge a partnership on disaster preparedness.

The Tapatan on Disaster Preparedness is an offshoot of the success of the series of Tapatan activities last year, focusing on the Full Disclosure Policy. It will be attended by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse M. Robredo, said DILG-10 Director Rene K. Burdeos.

Among the highlights of the event are DILG Secretary Robredo’s announcement on the seal of disaster preparedness; presentation on hydrometeorological and geological hazards affecting this region, Northern Mindanao disaster profile, climate change adaptation measures, Region 10 watersheds and river basins and the roles of the local government units (LGUs) and other stakeholders in disaster risk reduction and management and climate change adaptation; distribution of checks to the eight LGU awardees of the performance challenge fund and to the three pilot LGUs of the search and rescue subsidy fund.

NorMin shows positive revenue performance in 1Q - NEDA

by Apipa P. Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 18 (PIA) -- Northern Mindanao showed a positive revenue performance for the first quarter of 2012 according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Regional Office 10 when it presented to the members of the media the economic performance of the region last week.

According to the NEDA-10, the region showed such performance during the first quarter as it posted P1.43 billion tax collections and P1.36 billion customs collections, which are higher by 26 and 18 percent, respectively, compared with the same period last year.

Investments monitored by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) also amounted to P1.06 billion during the period, up by 41 percent compared to the same period last year.

Coconut-based products consisting of coconut oil, oleochemicals, and desiccated coconut remained the region’s top export commodity comprising 58 percent of the regional total exports valued at $180.80 million.

Unlike palay and corn production, which posted downward trends, matured coconut production in the region grew by eight percent reaching 421 million nuts during the quarter. Copra and green nut productions also went-up by nine percent and 20 percent, respectively.

Average inflation rate, on the other hand, was at 4.5 percent, the peak being in January at 5.5 percent, and steadily going down through March to 3.7 percent. It was largely driven by the food and non-alcoholic beverages commodity group, which carries the biggest weight among the 11 commodity groups.

Engr. Alan L. Olavides, chief of the Project Development Investment Programming and Budgeting Division of the NEDA-10, said the media forum is being conducted by NEDA once every quarter in recognition of the role and power of the tri-media in disseminating relevant information to target audiences.

We are sharing information on regional development particularly the region’s economic performance and other current issues and events requiring widespread community support to promote social and economic change, he said.

The resolutions passed by the Regional Development Council during its 93rd full council meeting and the priority programs of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority for the year 2012 were also presented during the forum. (APB/PIA-10)

Drivers, operators oppose cut of flag down rate

by Loui S. Maliza


TAXI drivers and operators in Cagayan de Oro opposed moves to reduce the flag down rate of taxi units to P30 from the current P40.

Allan Gamba, chairperson of the Cagayan de Oro Taxi Drivers Organization, said the P30 flag down rate is only possible should prices of gasoline go down to P35 and below per liter.

“It’s not possible,” said Gamba over a radio interview Thursday. “We need to wait until the price of gasoline per liter reaches P30-P35 because we haven’t recovered yet.”

Gamba said the flag down rate is “supposedly based on the price of gasoline per liter, but because the government gave us only P40 flag down rate, we hardly get even.”

He said taxi drivers are “even praying” that fuel prices go down “because that’s the time we take home good income for the day.”

“If the price of fuel equals to the price of gasoline per liter, taxi drivers would not worry ferrying passengers to remote areas in the city even if they go back to the ally without a passenger,” he said, adding “the current P40 flag down rate is so low compared to the price of fuel.”

Meanwhile, motorela drivers and operators have been advised to follow the supposed current motorela fare of P6.

Vic Deloy, chairperson of the Motorela Alliance of Drivers and Operators, said days after the City Council pushes investigation on non-complying drivers collecting P7 on regular fare, the group had its emergency meeting to urge members to religiously meet the terms of the city’s ordinance on motorela fare.

Based on the ordinance, should price per liter of unleaded gasoline, usually used as fuel for motorelas, is P55 and below, the current regular fare of P7 automatically goes down to P6; and P5 for privileged passengers.

Deloy assured the public to act on complaints should there still be drivers collecting regular fare higher than what’s stipulated on the ordinance.

“Maybe motorela drivers and operators not under our group did not comply with the ordinance, but definitely not our members because we are closely monitoring them,” he said.

For complaints, Deloy said, the public can directly file it at the City Hall’s licensing division for possible revocation of franchise. “But if complaints reach us, we could sanction our members… we can penalize them,” he said.

Unity needed for Oro to bounce back: Emano

by Nicole J. Managbanag


CAGAYAN de Oro City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano on Friday reminded everyone that unity is needed for the city to bounce back.

Speaking during the 62nd Charter Day commemorative program on Friday at the Kiosko Kagawasan, Emano emphasized that the people should not forget the tragedy caused by Typhoon Sendong.

He said that through the tragedy, Kagay-anons became united in helping each other to rise back.

“Let us be reminded that we would not bounce back if we forget how unity prevailed during those times,” Emano said.

The mayor expressed his gratitude to the Muslims, Lumads and other sectors who have provided support to the city after Sendong struck.

Friday’s Charter Day was highlighted with a wreath laying and flag raising activity and a colorful civic military parade participated by representatives from different sectors.

Among those who joined were from the different barangays, Department of Education, horse riders, the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Air Force, Department of Agrarian Reform, City Social Welfare Development Office, National Federation of Daycares, City Health Office, J.R. Borja Memorial City Hospital, City Prosecutor’s Office and Boy Scouts of the Philippines.

Immediately after the program, Emano led the groundbreaking of the second relocation site in Sitio Calaanan, Barangay Canitoan.

Councilor Alexander Dacer said the new relocation site hopes to provide more houses to flood survivors and to those who previously lived in no- return and no-build zones.

Activities for 62nd Oro Charter Day set

by Nicole J. Managbanag


THE Cagayan de Oro City Government has prepared a series of activities to make its 62nd charter day celebration today, Friday, a memorable one.

A flag raising and commemorative program will be held early morning today at the Kiosko Kagawasan in Divisoria as a way of remembering the day when former President Elpidio Quirino signed Republic Act 521 creating the city of Cagayan de Oro.

Top officials and dignitaries from the military, police, national line agencies and socio-civic sectors are expected to join the mass floral offering at the different monuments of local and national heroes during the commemorative rites. After the wreath laying ceremony, a civic parade will be held.

Part of the celebration is the holding of a two-day mega job fair, which started on Thursday at the City Hall grounds.

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Vicente Emano will personally monitor the outcome of the job fair where around 12,000 job vacancies are offered.

At 6:00 p.m., a concert will be held at the Kiosko Kagawasan.

Councilor Adrian Barba encouraged the residents to watch the dance sports, hiphop dance and battle of the bands while enjoying a cup of drinks at the night café.

“This is a good venue to end the Charter Day celebration, to unwind and enjoy the show prepared by the city’s village chiefs,” Barba said.

DOLE-10 encourages jobseekers to register at Phil-JobNet

by Apipa P. Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 14 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) - Regional Office 10 urged jobseekers to register at www.phil-job.net, the official job portal of the government.

Assistant Regional Director Crispin D. Dannug, Jr. advised applicants to open an account with Phil-JobNet and browse through the available vacancies to match their skills.

According to him, employers can also view the profile of applicants who match the requirements of the vacancy they posted in the website.

An applicant, who successfully obtained a job match, will receive a notification via electronic mail or SMS, he said.

In the meantime, Dannug encouraged jobseekers to join the job fair on June 14-15 at the City Hall grounds.

He also advised those already registered with the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in the city to attend the Job Fair early and get the job they are wishing for.

The two-day Mega Job Fair was organized by the city government of Cagayan de Oro as part of its commemoration of the 114th Independence Day and 62nd Charter Day celebration of the city.

The DOLE Cagayan de Oro-Misamis Oriental West Office, on the other hand, is extending technical support to the conduct of the City job fair. (DoLE-10/APB,PIA-10)

Mayor: Freedom is a gift

by Nicole J. Managbanag


CAGAYAN de Oro City Mayor Vicente Emano said on Tuesday that freedom is the most wonderful gift given to the people by the country’s heroes.

Spearheading Tuesday’s 114th Independence Day celebration at Kiosko Kagawasan in Divisoria, Emano said flags must be waved and people should be proud of it.

“We should be proud of it wherever we may go, not just for today’s commemoration but every day, for the rest of our lives,” he said.

However, Emano emphasized that freedom is still not totally attained since many are still experiencing poverty in the country.

“I hope that poverty will be resolved so that complete freedom for everyone will be attained. Being the father of the city, I will not forget my responsibility of taking care of my children in Cagayan de Oro,” the mayor said.

During Tuesday’s activity, representatives from different government agencies joined the hoisting of the flag and wreath-laying.

But the event was marred with political color after Councilor Edgar Cabanlas witnessed the occasion for the first time since he became a member of the opposition.

Cabanlas is rumored to be jumping back to the Padayon Pilipino party after severing ties with Emano and become the latter’s biggest critic.

However, Cabanlas said his presence is not for “politicking, but a mere show of patriotism.”

Councilor Adrian Barba, organizer of the event, was quick to explain that he invited everybody to witness the Independence Day commemoration rites, including Cabanlas and Councilor Roger Abaday, another member of the opposition.

At SM City, a flag made of 2,052 pieces (171 dozens) of pastel was unveiled to celebrate the occasion. The pastel was made by Vjandep, a local producer of native delicacies.

Oro sets triple celebration

by Nicole J. Managbanag/With reports from PIA


THE City Government of Cagayan de Oro has lined up a week-long series of activities to highlight the joint celebration of the 114th Philippine Independence Day on June 12, the 62nd City Charter Day on June 15 and the 151st birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal on June 19.

Mayor Vicente Emano had created a committee tasked to make preparations for the triple celebration, chaired by Councilor Adrian Barba.

Barba said several activities will be held highlighting the three important celebrations.

Today, June 12, Barba said Emano will lead the commemorative rites and executive wreath laying activity at the Rizal monument to celebrate the 114th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence.

The activity will start with an ecumenical prayer early morning at the Kiosko Kagawasan in Divisoria to be spearheaded by three religious sectors in the city headed by Ret. Rev. Felixberto I. Calang of the Philippine Independent Catholic Church with Msgr. Elmer S. Abacahin representing the Catholic sector and Ustadz Aliasa Aling from the Muslim group.

Barba said the activity will continue with the sounding of sirens by the Cagayan de Oro Fire Department to be followed by the singing of the National Anthem to mark the momentous raising of the flag.

Top officials and dignitaries from the military, police, national line agencies and socio-civic sectors are expected to join the mass floral offering at the different monuments of local and national heroes during the commemorative rites.

Immediately after the flag raising, Emano together with 4th Infantry Diamond Division Major General Victor A. Felix, Philippine National Police Regional Director Jufel C. Adriatico, Vice Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas and the members of the City Council, will proceed to the Rizal monument for the formal ceremony of the executive wreath laying.

Barba said later in the afternoon up to 7:00 in the evening, another activity will be held at the City Amphitheatre to be followed by the “Pista sa Nayon” where the Liga ng mga Barangay will host a festivity at the city’s Golden Friendship Park located near the Saint Augustine Cathedral church.

Today’s Independence Day will also be highlighted by the launching of the 3D Art Museum at the Community Ampitheater.

On June 13, the City Council committee on environment will lead a tree planting activity that would start at the relocation site in Barangay Camaman-an.

At 6:00 p.m., Barba said the Department of Education will give a presentation during a Cultural Night at the Kiosko Kagawasan.

Another round of mega job fair will then be conducted on June 14 at the City Tourism Hall where hundreds of local and foreign companies are expected to hire new sets of employees.

A blood summit activity composed of bloodletting, media forum and pledge of commitment will also be held at the New Jaraula Executive Building to be spearheaded by the Cagayan de Oro Blood Council. For the Charter Day celebration on June 15, Barba said a flag raising activity will be held at the Kiosko Kagawasan to be followed by a civic military parade and another round of a mega job fair.

A concert will follow late in the afternoon also at the Kiosko Kagawasan.

On June 19, a flag raising activity will also be held at the Kiosko Kagawasan.

“All the lined up activities we’ve created will make our celebration more meaningful this year,” Barba said.

In Iligan City, the City Government has enjoined its residents to reset their clock at exactly 7:00 a.m. today, a time synchronize for the simultaneous blowing of company sirens and horns for 10 seconds.

After the blowing of the horns, a civic-military parade will be held which will start at the Iligan City National High School playground and will converge at the Rizal Park-Iligan City Public Plaza.

A commemorative program will then follow and Mayor Lawrence Ll. Cruz and Rep. Vicente F. Belmonte will give inspirational messages.

The Kapagintaw Cultural Dance Troupe of the Iligan Medical Center College will have a presentation depicting the day’s event while the Buhanginan Voices will lead the singing of the “Ang Bayan Kong Pilipinas.” Later, releasing of the doves signifying peace and prosperity will be conducted by city/barangay officials.

Highlighting the Independence Day in Iligan City is the opening of the Trade Fair and Exhibit dubbed “Bahandi sa Kabarangayan,” a display of One-Barangay-One Product (OBOP) from the city’s 44 barangays.

Today’s Independence Day in Iligan is part of the city’s annual grand triple day celebration -- the National Flag Day on May 28 and the Adlaw sa Iligan on June 16 celebrating the city’s 62nd charter day.







4ID pays tribute to soldier-athlete

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, June 11 -- A trooper of the fourth infantry division was honored during the flag-raising ceremony here today.

Corporal Ronaldo Salon assigned with the 4th Post Engineer Detachment (4PED) participated in the National Wrestling Competition held in Dumaguete City, May 26 to June 3, where he won the Gold Medal in Greco Roman 120 kg Category and Silver in Freestyle 120-kg category.

Sixty aspiring wrestlers participated in the National Wrestling Competition and Salon had to face several opponents to prove his worth. He is a consistent wrestling participant and has been consistently been winning medals.

Salon expressed his gratitude to the 4ID leadership for the support given to him during the competition.

MGen. Victor A. Felix Commander, 4ID said, “I would like to express my admiration to your soldiers who are exemplary in the sports they participated in. This shows that your soldiers are jacks of all trades - they are not only soldiers who are master in combat, they can also do other things such as competing in sport event excellently.”

“The Division celebrates with you Corporal Salon for this win, again in behalf of the Command I express my congratulation to you,” Felix added. (Major Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV-4ID/PIA10)

CDO, Iligan 'Sendong' victims to get new homes

by Jose Rodel Clapano


Manila, Philippines - At least 8,000 new homes will be distributed to victims of typhoon “Sendong” in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City, Vice President Jejomar Binay said yesterday.

Binay, chairman of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council and Pag-IBIG Fund, tasked National Housing Authority (NHA) general manager Chito Cruz to immediately relocate the affected families and provide them with housing assistance.

The NHA signed 10 agreements with public and private institutions for the construction of the housing units.

These are with the Habitat for Humanity Philippines, Gawad Kalinga, SM Group of Companies, Banco de Oro Foundation Inc., Diocese of Iligan, Rotary-CDO, San Miguel Corp., Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc., Xavier University, Berjaya Group of Companies, GMA Kapuso Foundation, Shell Philippines, Oro Humanity, Social Action Center- Archdiocese of CDO, Caritas, St. Francis Xavier Church, Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers and Philippine Red Cross.

Binay said the HUDCC, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources were also involved in the project.

“President Aquino has instructed all concerned agencies to use all possible means to address the rehabilitation of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, and the signing of these 10 memoranda of agreement is government’s concrete action to answer our leader’s call,” Binay said.

Binay said around 8,293 housing units will be constructed in 16 locations in the two cities. Of this, 5,507 will be built in CDO and 2,786 in Iligan.

He lauded private and civic organizations that volunteered to construct the resettlement sites, saying the government cannot provide for all the funding needs.

– Jose Rodel Clapano

“I have always believed that we can achieve much through meaningful partnerships with different stakeholders,” Binay said, adding that such cooperation shows the value of “bayanihan” among Filipinos.

Health workers okay sin tax bill approval

by Nicole J. Managbanag


THE move of the House of Representatives to approve a bill on Wednesday increasing taxes on cigarettes and alcohol products has been accepted positively by some government health workers.

Councilor Dante Pajo, chair of Cagayan de Oro City Council committee on health and sanitation, said the bill will surely strengthen the country’s universal health care as it would lessen the occurrence of lung diseases, which he claimed has been included in the Top 10 causes of death.

Under the sin tax bill, 15 percent of the projected revenues will go to tobacco farmers while 85 percent will be earmarked for universal healthcare in all provinces nationwide.

Pajo said with the high prices of cigarettes and liquors, more people, particularly the low-income earners, will be forced to stop their vices.

He added the approval of the bill would also mean more income to the government.

“I just hope the senate will give their revision the soonest so that President Benigno Aquino can sign it and turn it into law,” Pajo said.

Emiliano Galban Jr., information officer of the Department of Health (DOH), said they have been waiting for the bill’s approval, citing they were behind the move from the very start.

Ruth Casiño, health education and promotion officer designate and member of the Smoking Task Force of Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC), said she is also pleased with the Congress’ decision.

“If taxes are high, people would think twice before buying these products because it is expensive,” Casiño said.

She added the bill would also tend to minimize the occurrence of diseases from smoking and drinking liquor such as lung cancer, chronic obstructive, cardiovascular and other diseases.

“This bill is pro-poor, for universal health care and for the tobacco farmers to shift their products to crops. That is why we health advocates support this bill,” Casiño said.

The sin tax bill is expected to raise prices of alcohol products and cigarettes and is seen to contribute P33 billion to government revenues.

The proposed legislation provides three-tier tax rates of P20, P80 and P320 on distilled spirits such as whiskey, brandy, rum, gin and vodka; two-tier tax scheduled for sparkling wines and champagnes of P250 and P700; and two-tier tax rates of P13.75 and P18.80 on fermented liquors.

Cigarettes that cost P11.50 or less will soon be sold for P23.50, while cigarettes that cost P11.50 and above will be sold for P31.80.

Under the bill, excise tax rates shall also increase by eight percent every two years effective January 1, 2015 until January 1, 2025.

With the bill’s approval at the House of Representatives, the Senate can either pass its own version or adopt the House bill.

Once approved, a bicameral conference committee will be convened to reconcile conflicting provisions, if any.

The approved version will then be sent back to the House and the Senate for ratification before President Aquino signs it into law.

Archbishop Ledesma to lead ‘multi-sectoral united front’ vs mining in CDO

by Cong Corrales


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews/7 June) – Bangon Kagay-an, a civil society which started out as a Facebook group, found a formidable ally in Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, SJ, after a late afternoon meeting Wednesday. Ledesma offered to “work hand in hand” with the group and that he will lead in the “forming of a broad multi-sectoral front” against mining and logging in the upland villages of the city. The broad multisectoral front, Ledesma added, will meet once every month. “We can combine resources. (We can) reach out to the academe,” Ledesma said in the meeting. Ledesma also said he will tap other religious sects and organization for the anti-mining advocacy. “Actually our Earth Day Statement was co-signed with other religious leaders coming from IFI (Iglesia Filipina Independiente) and UCCP (United Church of Christ in the Philippines). We are also trying to connect with the Islamic leaders in the city,” said Ledesma. The bishop added that he will also spearhead in convening an inter-university forum against mining. The city is host to Xavier University, Liceo de Cagayan University, Capitol University and the state-run Mindanao University of Science and Technology. As a first step of consolidating the “united front” against mining, Ledesma invited Bangon Kagay-an leaders to participate in the multisectoral consultation on June 12 at the Patrick Cronin Formation Center at the St. Augustine Cathedral here. Fr. Nathaniel Lerio, organizer of the activity and executive director of the Archdiocese’s Social Action Center, said the first part of the event will be a presentation by Commission on Audit Commissioner Heide Mendoza on Ethical Leadership and Accountability in Government Service. “We can then spend the second part of the activity for planning and strategy session,” said Lerio. In the meeting at the Archbishop’s residence, Bangon Kagay-an chairman Nixon Baban presented his group as “volunteers” in responding to Ledesma’s call to combat the ongoing mining in the hinterland barangays in the city. “What is worse is that they (mining operators) make it appear they are quarrying and dredging the upstream of Cagayan River but our people in the area have pictures and witnessed how they just dump the soil and gravel back to the river after they thought no one was watching,” Baban said. Baban added that this practice is threatening the livelihood of the vegetable farmers in the upland barangays of the city because it has silted “heavily” their farmlands.

“We present ourselves as volunteers to the church,” Baban told Ledesma in the meeting. “I have a moral issue with the officials of the city. We are endangering ourselves here,” Renato Tibon, Bangon Kagay-an vice chairman and chair of the group’s Environmental Concerns said in the meeting. He explained that “there is no sense of regulation in operations of mining in the uplands” and this should alarm everyone downstream of the river, especially with the rainy season kicking in. Tibon, who is also the president of the Homeowners Association of Emily Homes Subdivision, said that of the 135 families that used to live in their subdivision, only about “32 to 33 families have gone back.” Emily Homes Subdivision is located in Macasandig and one of the worst hit communities in the aftermath of Typhoon Sendong December last year. (Cong B. Corrales / MindaNews)

Motorela drivers urged to lower fare to P6

by Nicole J. Managbanag


AS FUEL prices have already gone down, motorela drivers and operators are also required to adjust their fare to P6.

Cagayan de Oro City Councilor Alden Bacal, chair of the City Council committee on public utility, said the rollback is based on the automatic fare adjustment scheme ordinance authored by Councilor Ian Mark Nacaya that was approved in 2010.

Under the ordinance, motorela fares should go down to P6 if fuel prices would be between P45 to P50 per liter.

Bacal said this is also to make sure that passengers will not be overcharged.

Last year, the City Council granted a fare increase of P1 after the prices of fuel went up.

Based on last year's fare matrix, an increase of P1 will be allowed depending on the present prices of fuel.

Bacal said it is quite fair that drivers should also drop down their rates, citing the higher prices of basic commodities.

Related to this, Bacal ordered motorela drivers and operators to secure a fare matrix to make the passengers aware of the new rate.

At the same time, he also urged passengers to report to his committee those drivers who will still collect P7.

Bacal said motorela drivers and operators who will be found guilty of overcharging will be suspended or have their licenses revoked.

“But operators are required to voluntarily reinstate the normal P7 fare when the price of gasoline goes up the P50 limit,” he said.

Bacal added that special privileges must still be given to students and senior citizens.

Barangay captain, killed in CDO

by bomboradyo.com


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Continuing now the police operation against those responsible shot dead a barangay captain in Cruz Taal-Capistrano streets in the city.

Identified the victim as the Barangay Captain Sadrac shadow Limonda, Opol, Misamis Oriental.

Riding in his parked car was shadow when it was shot not identified the suspects using the .45 caliber pistol.

Carried on in the Northern Mindanao Medical Center declared the victim but this doctor dead on arrival due to earned its right to his head and body.

According to Supt. Danildo old, chief of Divisoria Police Station, they tinututukan the possibility that personal grudge is the motive to kill the victim.

Meanwhile, a female witness revealed that planned to kill the captain.

He said it saw a man wearing a jacket that comes with the victim's vehicle and immediately shot it.

The suspects fled after they see that may correct many bullets in the body of the victim.

Had allegedly said that approximately 20 to 30 married the victim.

Lorna Gabon according to a cousin of the victim, typically it will become aged 20 years old or older.

Gabon was first refused to confirm many having a wife of the victim is one of the reasons why it was shot.

Found that in December 2011, also shot the victim out of the cockpit in Brgy Igpit, swerteng Opol in the province but it will not hit.

Thousands attend 1st day of school

by Annabelle L. Ricalde and Nicole J. Managbanag


THOUSANDS of students trooped to public elementary schools in Cagayan de Oro on Monday for the first day of classes.

At City Central School, the biggest elementary school in the city in terms of population, school principal Porferio P. Padinit Jr. said they are requesting the Department of Education (DepEd) to provide them with more chairs, classrooms and teachers to accommodate the huge influx of students who enlisted on Monday for late enrollment.

Padinit said because of the late enrollees, the school’s population increased by eight percent compared last school year.

“We did not expect the influx of students who enrolled yesterday (Monday) since more students have transferred from other schools, especially those from Isla de Oro who survived the wrath of Typhoon ‘Sendong’,” he said.

Padinit said that at present, there are at least 8,500 Grade 1 to 6 students at City Central School with one teacher having 55 students, which he said is far from the ideal ratio of 40 students per teacher.

Because of this, he announced that they will no longer accept new enrollees but will consider transferees from outside Cagayan de Oro.

Earlier, a Grade 1 teacher at the school lamented over the fewer number of students who enrolled from April to May reportedly due to “Sendong.”

Related to this, DepEd Superintendent Myrna Castaños said there are increases in enrollment among schools near relocation sites in the city, particularly in Barangays Indahag and Lumbia and P.N. Roa Subdivision in Barangay Canitoan.

Castaños said they have already given orders for schools in these areas not to refuse enrollees.

She also ordered schools not to be strict with the requirements, especially birth certificates and other pertinent documents, as these might have been lost during the flood.

In Sendong-affected areas such as Barangay Balulang and Consolacion, Castaños said some classrooms have already been renovated so classes would already start as expected.

“DepEd will construct additional 36 classrooms in badly hit areas,” she said.

She added they will also provide more books and facilities and hire more teachers.

Meanwhile, around 80 policemen were deployed Monday to ensure the security of students during the first day of classes.

Senior Superintendent Gerardo Rosales, director of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo), said their office is well prepared for the opening of classes, particularly in the deployment of personnel in and around school campuses and in other crowded places.

“Although mostly mga public schools pa lang yata ang nag-open, but Cocpo deployed at least 80 personnel for security purposes sa mga estudyante natin,” Rosales said.

He said all Cocpo police personnel from different police stations were tasked to secure the schools within their area of responsibility.

Rosales emphasized that police stations have been alerted to mobilize foot patrol personnel for police visibility operations in school premises to prevent criminal elements from victimizing students.

He said the priority concern of policemen are incidents of street crimes such as pickpocket, snatching, robbery/holdup, kidnapping, swindling and street-level drug trafficking.

“Naglagay din tayo ng police assistance desk to assist students and parents in case may mga complaints or related incidents,” Rosales added.

He said Cocpo was supposed to deploy some 100 policemen on Monday as earlier planned but was not pushed through because private schools will open its classes next week.

Personnel from the Roads and Traffic Administration also helped policemen in manning the streets in anticipation of heavy flow of traffic.

“So far, generally peaceful naman ang opening ng classes at walang reported related incidents as of this moment,” Rosales said.






Gulayan sa Paaralan 2012 beneficiaries identified

by (Vanessa Mae S. Siano/DA RAFID 10/PIA 10)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 4 (PIA) -- The Department of Agriculture in Northern Mindanao (DA-10) through its Crops Division renewed its partnership with the Department of Education-10 (DepEd-10), Department of Social Welfare and Development-10 (DSWD-10), local government units, and other government agencies to continue the implementation and the advocacy of the Agri-Pinoy Gulayan sa Paaralan Project in a meeting conducted last May 24, this city.

Primarily, Agri-Pinoy Gulayan sa Paaralan Project aims to address problems on malnutrition by teaching the students the values of eating healthy food through sustaining the supplementary feeding program of DepEd. Children are taught on how to plant and grow vegetables through natural farming and to replicate it at home to ensure sustainability.

The meeting tackled the amended guidelines of the implementation as stipulated in Executive Order No. 15, series of 2011; criteria and composition of evaluators for the best school garden contest; status and accomplishments for the 2011 beneficiaries of the project; and the 2012 target beneficiaries.

The five-year program aims to cover 42,076 school gardens by 2016.

As of this writing, 574 beneficiary schools are confirmed to have benefited from the project in Region 10, while the other 342 is yet to be confirmed by the provinces of Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental.

Meanwhile, for 2012, it is expected that 650 schools in the region will benefit from the project by receiving vegetable seeds and planting materials. Focal persons in each schools and districts will also undergo training prior to implementation of the program.

Furthermore, the recipients of the project are also encouraged to establish their own seed banking facility to sustain the implementation of the project and since it’s also one of the criteria for the district level search for best school garden contest.

A representative from the DepEd Division of Misamis Occidental raised an issue that there are secondary schools identified as beneficiary of the program where agriculture is not even offered as a subject and normally takes most of the extra time of students.

DA-10 Crops Division OIC Chief Janen T. Paradero said that there should be a written documentation submitted to the higher management so that they can hear it out and find ways to address it to make the implementation better.

Regional Reports Officer for Agri-Pinoy Gulayan sa Paaralan Gleen A. Janubas announced that DA will also distribute five kilos of worms and vermi bed for each of the 316 beneficiary school from Calendar Year (CY) 2011 and 400 schools for CY 2012 beneficiaries in the region. Training will also be conducted prior to the distribution of materials for vermiculture.

It has been agreed during the meeting that focal persons should disseminate the information to the heads of target school beneficiaries so that they could prepare the area intended for the project.

Moreover, to continually monitor the development of the project focal persons are also tasked to submit a monthly report with regard to the distribution of inputs and production data of existing gardens every end of the month to DA-Regional Field Office 10.

Editorial: A fresh start

by Published in the Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro newspaper


TODAY is the start of classes in all public elementary schools in the country. Today is the start of a 10-month schooling for students who dream to finish college and land a job in the future.

Today is also the start of the new program of the Department of Education (DepEd) called K+12.

Despite the negative flaks the program earlier received from parents who complained of additional expenses, the DepEd is bent on making the country’s education system at par with other countries in the world through the new program. Though we still have to see its results.

Today’s opening of classes is certainly considered a fresh start not only for students but also for parents and teachers who continue to mold and help the children become what they want to be.

For students, today is the start of an opportunity to learn something new and improve themselves.

But for the parents, the start of classes means striving more to pay for the tuition, school supplies and projects after a two-month summer respite. Though tiring, parents have the responsibility to send their kids to school no matter what.

For the teachers, today is the start of another year of patience and sharing of knowledge. Though tiring and exhausting too, teachers would surely never mind this as they always love to become a tool for their students’ professional growth.

In Cagayan de Oro, Tropical Storm Sendong damaged classrooms and school buildings in some public elementary schools. Some have already been repaired and replaced but others are beyond repair. This means some students would have to hold classes in covered courts, open spaces and even under the trees.

But the students should not be discouraged by the lack of classrooms. The city government and other agencies are doing their best to build new school buildings and provide books and other equipment. What is important is the opportunity for them to learn and become educated.

For students, consider today as a new day and a new beginning. A fresh start and a new life after Sendong.

Agri-business coop gets P300,000 grant from DOLE-10

by Apipa P. Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 2 (PIA) -- The Nagkahiusang Miembro sa Mag-uumang Kapunongan Umagosnon Multi-Purpose Cooperative (NAMMUKAU MPC) of Umagos, Lagonglong in the province of Misamis Oriental received a livelihood grant amounting to P300,000 from the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) Regional Office 10 last May 21.

With the grant, NAMMUKAU MPC aims to produce quality lacatan banana, highly marketable in Cagayan de Oro City and neighboring municipalities of Misamis Oriental.

The grant was intended to augment the income of its 150 members and expand its agri-enterprise business project. It will be used by the cooperative to purchase a transportation facility and construct its warehouse.

According to Johnson G. Cañete , DOLE-10 Regional Director, the release of banana production livelihood grant was under the DOLE Self Reliant Organization for Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (SRO for CARP), a special project committed by the DoLE in the implementation of the CARP.

The SRO-CARP Project aims to promote continuing employment and improve productivity and income of rural enterprises among agrarian reform beneficiary-cooperatives in selected CARP covered plantation and commercial farms.

The cooperative, which is also a beneficiary of the Agrarian Reform Program of the government, has been highly recommended for a full-blown agri-business development by the national and regional governments for it has shown a good track record in successful implementation of goat raising and swine dispersal projects.

Previously, DOLE-10 has released a banana trading fund to NAMMUKAU MPC worth P140,000, as well as, P200,00 for banana rehabilitation and production. (Mildred E. Dablio, DoLE-10/APB,PIA-10)

Hospitals, health centers to accept urine testing for free

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO, Misamis Oriental, June 1 (PIA) -- Select hospitals and barangay health centers will be accepting samples of urine for free testing, this June.

Department of Health, Center for Health Development 10 (DOH-CHD 10) Renal Disease Control Program (REDCOP) Coordinator, Carmen Lubguban confirmed this in a recent interview with the Philippine Information Agency 10.

She said this is just one of activities prepped up in observance to the National Kidney Month celebration next month.

“This formed part of our advocacy to encourage the public to be cautious of their kidney's health and to regularly submit for testing at least once a year," Lubguban explained, adding that, early prevention and detection is the better treatment.

For Cagayan de Oro City, the Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC), City Health Office, and Barangay Health Stations of Lapasan, Carmen, Nazareth, Kausawagan, and Bulua were the identified centers to accept the urine samples.

She added that for Iligan City, the public may visit their City Health Office and the Gregorio T. Lluch Memorial Hospital to avail the free urinalysis.

Lubguban noted that all samples must be clean catch, and should ideally be taken mid-stream of the first early morning urine.

The urine samples must be submitted within two hours after collection and must be stored in ice if it takes longer to reach the hospital or health center.

The National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI) provided a total of 1,500 dipsticks for the free examination.

Persons, whose urine results were above normal ratings, will be advised to undergo the Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) test and will be prioritized during the free medical mission set by NKTI coming June 19 and 20, in both cities.

She clarified that they will also be referred to a specialist for follow up check up as the DOH and NKTI is also working closely with the Philippine Society of Nephrologists in the local chapter for the referrals.

Other activities set simultaneously with the medical mission is the lay forum scheduled coming June 20, at 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Dynasty Court Hotel, expecting to draw some 300 participants and a small lecture at the NMCC for the relatives and families of patients who have undergone dialysis. (JCV-PIA 10)

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