Cagayan de Oro City News November 2011

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Cagayan de Oro to host 'Doing Business in FTAs' confab

by Mila Aguilar-Lasquites


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 30 (PIA) -- Cagayan de Oro City will again host an information session dubbed "Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTA II) Program – A Sectoral Approach for Homestyle, Coconut and Fresh and Processed Food,” on December 8, here. The session will discuss the benefits of free trade agreements between the Philippines and the ASEAN countries and Australia, China, Japan, Korea, New Zealand and India. There will also be sessions on market opportunities, tariffs, rules of origin and customs procedures pertaining to these countries. The FTAs the Philippines is currently implementing include one (1) Bilateral FTA - the Philippine-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (PJEPA); and six (6) Bilateral FTAs, namely: ASEAN Free Trade Area, and ASEAN Regional FTAs – ASEAN-China, ASEAN-Japan, ASEAN-Korea and ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand FTAs including ASEAN – India. The ASEAN-India FTA is due for implementation this year, according to the DTI. To be discussed also, are market opportunities for the Homestyle, Coconut and Fresh and Processed Food Sectors in Free Trade Areas to include industrial snapshot, world demand, Philippine exports in FTA markets, shares of Philippine exports to world imports, consumer trends, lifestyle/social changes. The DBFTA info session is part of the activities of Northern Mindanao during the Exporters’ Week which is celebrated during the first week of December 2011. The activity will be conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in partnership with the Bureau of Customs (BoC) and the Tariff Commission (TC) to present benefits and opportunities on FTAs to business people, academe, concerned government agencies and local government units, customs brokers, traders, distributors and freight forwarders, at the Mallberry Suites, Limketkai Compex. For interested participants, you may call or visit any Provincial Office within Region 10. (DTI/PIA-10)

DENR closes 178 sawmills in NorMin

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, November 29 (PIA) -- Some 178 sawmills, mini-sawmills and veneer or plywood plants were closed down by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) here in Northern Mindanao for failing to renew their licenses. DENR chief on forest protection Virgilio N. Batocail said the approval of Executive Order No. 23, declaring a moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of timber in the natural and residual forests as well as creating the anti-illegal task force, gave sawmill operators harder time in catching up with the new added requirements provided in the EO. “Those applying for renewal are now required to show proof of sustained supplies in raw materials within a five-year period, and if they fail to comply, we are left with no choice but to cut them off the list,” Batocail said. From the 263 sawmill operators, only 83 were left, he said. "This will continue to decline as they will soon submit again for the yearly renewal by the end of the year or in the first quarter next year," he added. Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Misamis Occidental reported the highest total of closed down wood processing plants (WPPs), with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Oroquieta City posting some 40 closed WPPs and another 34 in Ozamiz. Misamis Oriental figure follows with Initao town closing some 45 sawmills and nine in Gingoog City. The remaining provinces, meanwhile, bared lower totals with PENRO Bukidnon uncovering only some 38 illegally operating WPPs, 11 in Lanao del Norte and only one in Camiguin. DENR has already served closure orders and deployed its field officers to monitor establishments who still continue to operate after being ordered to close down. Batocail noted that cases will be filed to establishment owners who still operate without licenses. Meanwhile, Police Regional Office 10 Director PCSupt. Jufel C. Adriatico during the recent Regional Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee (RLECC) meeting, likewise, asked for the list of closed WPPs, that the police provincial directors and chiefs can also assist DENR in ensuring the enforcement of the closure orders. (PIA 10)

Groups voice concern over attack on radio anchor

by NEIL A. ALCOBER


International media organizations voiced concern over an ambush that wounded a radio commentator in Cagayan de Oro City Thursday night, saying the incident may signal an escalation of violence against Filipino journalists.

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) condemned the attack on Michael James Licuanan, a radio anchor of Bombo Radyo-Cagayan de Oro.

“Philippine police and drug enforcement agents must quickly establish if Licuanan’s shooting is related to his on-air comments regarding the drug bust in Cagayan de Oro. The IFJ condemns the shooting and is concerned by what appears to be an escalation of violence against journalists in the Philippines in 2011,” IFJ Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park said.

For its part, Malacañang reiterated that it would not condone or tolerate such attacks. The palace expects the Philippine National Police (PNP) to keep Palace officials updated on the case.

“We do not condone nor tolerate attacks like this, especially if the motive is related to his work as a journalist,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said on government-run dzRB radio.

Licuanan, anchor of Zona Libre aired over Bombo Radyo-Cagayan de Oro, was critically wounded in an ambush near Cogon Market at around 9:30 pm Thurday last week.

An initial investigation showed two men on a red motorcycle, who were reportedly sighted outside the station several hours before the shooting, followed Licuanan from the station as he was heading home after his anchoring duties.

Although he was shot, Licuanan was able to run to a nearby fire station where he asked for help.

He was taken to the Northern Mindanao Medical Center for treatment.

Bombo Radyo-Cagayan de Oro City Station Manager Celso Maldecir said Licuanan had been commenting on the arrest of a certain Sammy Yusop by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency agents on November 22.

IFJ noted the Philippines has for many years been one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists.

While only four journalists were killed in 2010, seven so far have been killed in 2011, and attacks and threats are still widespread, it noted.

The IFJ also said the shooting comes the day after the National Union of Journalists in the Philippines (NUJP) staged nationwide protests as part of the inaugural International Day to End Impunity, which marked the two-year anniversary of the Maguindanao massacre.

Another international group, Reporters Without Borders (RWB), said it was shocked over the slay attempt on Licuanan.

“This shooting attack, which is typical of the dangers accompanying media work in the Philippines, has again underscored the urgent need for the authorities to combat crimes of violence against journalists. It must be investigated thoroughly so that it does not go unpunished,” the organization said in a statement.

RWB said colleagues who asked not to be identified said Licuanan received anonymous telephone threats two weeks ago after he discussed on air the cited drug trafficking case and local corruption.

Meanwhile, RWB reiterated its full support for the families of the 32 journalists who were killed reportedly by the private militia of the then governor of Maguindanao province two years ago, “in what was the biggest ever massacre of media personnel.”

Sec. Robredo inspects tunnel leading to CdeO City Jail

by Jeza Mae Sarah C. Sanchez


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 27 (PIA) -- Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo visited the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) here in Northern Mindanao after the agency thwarted a possible escape of inmates. After gracing the recent Indigenous Peoples’ Assembly here in the city, Robredo, together with BJMP Chief Rosendo M. Dial, went to the Cagayan de Oro City facility to personally check on an 83-meter tunnel that was discovered outside the facility. Dial, on his part, instructed his men to be more vigilant. Meanwhile, he commended the leadership of BJMP-10 for a job well done in preventing the possible escape. He, on the other hand, reminded them to beef-up the already stringent security measures implemented not just in Cagayan de Oro City but in all BJMP-manned jails across the region. Borrowing the words from the late charismatic US leader, John Fitzgerald-Kennedy, Dial further challenged his men. “Ask not what your Bureau can do for you, but ask what you can do for the Bureau,” he quipped. (BJMP/PIA-10)

Illegal drugs may have triggered slay try on Bombo anchorman

by Ben Serrano


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 26 (PNA) -- Seizure of 1.5 kilos of shabu by joint police and PDEA operatives at a mall parking lot here may have triggered the assassination attempt on radio anchorman of DXIF 1188 KhZ Bombo Radyo Cagayan de Oro City Thursday evening.

Until now, the team that seized the illegal drugs from Pagadian City fail to disclose the real owner or owners of the 1.5 kilos of shabu believed to be the biggest heist of illegal drugs this year in Northern Mindanao.

Bombo Radyo Cagayan de Oro City Chief of Reporters James Licuanan has just finished his “Sona Libre” program at 9 p.m. Thursday tackling the illegal drugs issue and other issues when unidentified gunmen riding a single motorcycle in tandem shot him some 300 meters away from the radio station.

Licuanan who is now recuperating at a local private hospital here told Bombo Radyo reporters he suspected one of the suspects was the same person who posed as one of his fans who stared at him at the radio station’s announcer’s booth while Licuanan was anchoring his radio program that same evening.

The radio station’s security guard that evening claimed the suspect entered the radio station premises and asked the station guard that he be allowed to see in person Licuanan because he is an avid listener of the radio broadcaster.

Based on testimonies of Licuanan taken while he was still at his hospital bed this morning, a cartographic sketch has been made by Cagayan de Oro City police task force “Dacoycoy”, the task force created to probe the radio man’s slay attempt.

Task Force Dacoycoy is headed by Cagayan de Oro City Police Office Intelligence chief, Supt. Emmanuel Hebron.

Doctors from the said hospital declared Licuanan out of danger.

“I am very thankful to the management of Bombo Radyo who gave their all-out support and took care of me while I am here at the hospital recuperating from my bullet wound, Bombo Radyo management never left at this time of crisis” Licuanan said.

Licuanan, however, vowed not to stop exposing illegalities.

Licuanan’s close relatives on Saturday morning called on authorities to identify the gunman and his mastermind in the radioman’s failed assassination try.

Police here claimed they now had the lead in the Licuanan shooting after the victim himself described his would-be killers.

Cagayan de Oro City police director Senior Supt. Gerardo Rosales suspected the gunman comes from outside Cagayan de Oro City and believed to be from a southern Mindanao province gun-for-hire.

“But we are still investigating the case, at present it was all initial official findings but at least we already have lead while probing all possible angles until we can come out with final conclusion of the case,” Rosales said. (PNA) DCT/RMA/BS/rsm

Radio broadcaster shot in Cagayan de Oro

by JB Deveza, Karen Boncocan

Inquirer Mindanao, INQUIRER.net


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — A broadcaster here was shot and critically wounded by motorcycle-riding assailants around 9:30 p.m. Thursday, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines and police said Friday. Michael James Licuanan was on his way to the Bombo radio station here when shot near the Cogon market along Ebarli Street, Barangay (village) 30 by one of two men riding in tandem on a motorbike, Senior Superintendent Gerardo Rosales, city police director, and the. NUJP report said. The broadcaster was shot using a caliber .45 pistol, said Rosales. In a separate interview, Senior Inspector Elmer Robas, station commander of Cogon Police Precinct, said the two men fired at Licuanan twice. The first shot missed Licuanan but caused him to crash into the street. Robas said. One of the two then got off the motorcycle and chased the broadcaster, who was trying to escape, he said. The armed suspect then fired another shot, hitting Licuanan on the left buttock, he said. The bullet exited through the broadcaster’s abdomen, he said. Licuanan was rushed to the Northern Mindanao Medical Center where he underwent an operation and has since regained consciousness, said Rosales. He said that they have made a sketch of the assailant’s face based on Licuanan’s description and that an investigation was underway.

2 face raps over tunnel to Cagayan de Oro jail

by Report from PJ dela Peña, ABS-CBN News Northern Mindanao


AT LEAST P20-million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) was seized by agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Northern Mindanao during its anti-drug operation Monday evening outside a mall in Cagayan de Oro.

Roberto S. Opeña, PDEA regional director, said the illegal drugs were placed in a package hidden inside a 20-inch television and sent through a courier company in one of its branches inside the mall.

Opeña identified the recipient of the package as Sammy Mohamad Yusop, 38, van operator and a resident of Muricay, Pagadian City.

Yusop was arrested around 8:45 p.m. after picking up the package.

The illegal drugs, weighing 1.5 kilograms, were placed inside two large sealed transparent cellophanes.

Yusop was about to bring the package into his gray Toyota Hi Ace vehicle bearing plate No. KEE-331 when intercepted by PDEA agents.

Police said a certain Rhea Ledesma of Las Piñas in Manila was the alleged sender of the package.

In a television interview, Yusop said he just received a text message informing him to claim the package.

“The sender sent to me the tracking number of the package so I just claimed it,” he said.

He admitted that “claiming packages” has been his work in exchange for a fee of between P15,000 to P20,000, which also includes the rent of his van.

However, Yusop said he doesn’t know the identity of the senders.

Yusop is now detained at the PDEA-Northern Mindanao office pending the filing of a case for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, while the seized illegal drugs were brought to the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory for examination.

Opeña said Monday’s operation was PDEA’s biggest accomplishment so far since he assumed post.

He claimed that PDEA’s operations in the past months were quite successful as they posted significant improvements in terms of accomplishments.

This, he added, is because of the intensive intelligence networking and proper conduct of controlled delivery type of operation.

P20-M worth of shabu seized

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


AT LEAST P20-million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) was seized by agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Northern Mindanao during its anti-drug operation Monday evening outside a mall in Cagayan de Oro.

Roberto S. Opeña, PDEA regional director, said the illegal drugs were placed in a package hidden inside a 20-inch television and sent through a courier company in one of its branches inside the mall.

Opeña identified the recipient of the package as Sammy Mohamad Yusop, 38, van operator and a resident of Muricay, Pagadian City.

Yusop was arrested around 8:45 p.m. after picking up the package.

The illegal drugs, weighing 1.5 kilograms, were placed inside two large sealed transparent cellophanes.

Yusop was about to bring the package into his gray Toyota Hi Ace vehicle bearing plate No. KEE-331 when intercepted by PDEA agents.

Police said a certain Rhea Ledesma of Las Piñas in Manila was the alleged sender of the package.

In a television interview, Yusop said he just received a text message informing him to claim the package.

“The sender sent to me the tracking number of the package so I just claimed it,” he said.

He admitted that “claiming packages” has been his work in exchange for a fee of between P15,000 to P20,000, which also includes the rent of his van.

However, Yusop said he doesn’t know the identity of the senders.

Yusop is now detained at the PDEA-Northern Mindanao office pending the filing of a case for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, while the seized illegal drugs were brought to the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory for examination.

Opeña said Monday’s operation was PDEA’s biggest accomplishment so far since he assumed post.

He claimed that PDEA’s operations in the past months were quite successful as they posted significant improvements in terms of accomplishments.

This, he added, is because of the intensive intelligence networking and proper conduct of controlled delivery type of operation.

Probe on for death of City Hall employee

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


POLICE authorities are still facing a blank wall as to the identity of two gunmen who shot dead a City Hall employee before midnight on Saturday in Barangay Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City. SPO2 Dominador Datahan of Bulua Police Station said their intelligence personnel are still conducting follow-up investigation on the killing of Leopoldo Catipay, 54, a resident of Zone 5 in Barangay Bulua and a heavy equipment operator at the City Public Services Office (CPSO). Catipay was shot dead around 11:30 p.m. of Saturday by two unidentified men who pretended to be his passengers. The victim was also working as a “habal-habal” driver using his own motorcycle. The suspects took Catipay’s red Yamaha krypton bearing plate number 7984 KD. The victim succumbed to two gunshot wounds in the chest and body from a 9mm pistol. Datahan said before the incident, a certain Reynaldo Madera, a resident of Zone 7 Barangay Bulua who is also a “habal-habal” driver, reported to Bulua Police Station around 11 p.m. Saturday that two armed men attempted to carnap his motorcycle. Madera told police that he picked up the two armed men who pretended to be passengers in Agora, Barangay Lapasan but upon proceeding to Zone 2 in Barangay Bulua, the two declared a “holdup” while pointing a gun at him. “The suspects said they only want the motorcycle but Madera immediately choked the motorcycle and ran away so the suspects failed to bring the vehicle,” Datahan told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro. Madera reported to the police and sought for assistance. Police authorities responded to the area and recovered the motorcycle. After 30 minutes, Datahan said they received a report that a “habal-habal” driver was shot. They later found out the victim was Catipay. Catipay was still able to talk to the police and said the two suspects shot him and took his motorcycle. “The suspects shot Catipay but he still managed to run,” Datahan said. Police believed the two suspects who shot Catipay were the same men who failed to carnap Madera’s motorcycle. City Administrator Gricelda Joson said Catipay worked as a heavy equipment operator at the CPSO for several years. Joson assured that the City Government would extend assistance to Catipay’s family. Almost two years ago, Arbe Comision, also an employee of City Hall assigned at the CPSO, was shot dead by unidentified suspects who also took his motorcycle.

News Feature: DoT-10 bares eco-tourism destinations in Northern Mindanao

by Apipa Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 21 -- Famous for its captivating islands, enchanting falls and caves, exotic parks and rivers, and lush greeneries of mountains, Northern Mindanao is one of the well-sought eco-tourism sites in the country. Decius Esmedalla, Regional Marketing and Promotions Officer of the Department of Tourism (DOT), in region 10, said both local and foreign visitors can enjoy a wide range of experiences in the identified adventure and eco-tourism destinations in the region. Among the identified sites is the 25-hectare lake located at Guinoroyan in Valencia City of the Bukidnon province which is surrounded with lush greeneries of hills and mountains, huge ferns and endemic plants, as well as orchids and other flower plants. Esmedalla said Lake Apo is one of the emerging attractions in the region where tourists can cruise around the lake in bamboo rafts. Also, right at the heart of Malaybalay City is the Kaamulan Park, a theme park encompassing vast natural surroundings of pine trees, hilly area, endemic plants and landscape for leisurely walks, horseback riding, and off-the-track races. The Canopy Walk situated within the rainforest of Barangay Mag-Bais in Claveria town in Misamis Oriental is a well sought destination in the region being one of the earliest canopy walk in the country, he cited. According to him, its best features are the varied sceneries of the site as one manages to transport himself to the seven decks all atop some 150 feet from the ground where tourists are greeted with the scent of forest and brilliant display of flora and fauna. Other sites cited by Esmedalla are the Agutayan Island in Jasaan town which is a marine sanctuary and nursery of five species of giant clams; the century-old catholic church of Immaculate Concepcion which is situated also in Jasaan and identified by the National Historical Institute as a historical spot and one of the well-preserved churches still operational in the country. In Sugbongcogon, he said one can also experience nature tripping in the Mantianak Zoological Park which features flora and fauna, tigers, and various bird species. The Lasang Boardwalk and Treetops or the Initao-Libertad National Park Seascape and Landscape also offer an adventurous experience and marvellous sight of the woodland. Developed as a theme park, its seascape is home to centennial-old trees, endemic flora and fauna, tarsiers, rare ferns and wild orchids, as well as a cave habituated by nose-clip bats. The Gardens of Malasag Eco-tourism Village is also a must see. Nestled in the 7.5 hectare hilly reforestation of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Barangay Cugman, this city, the garden features tribal houses, souvenir shop, open air coffee shop, swimming pool, multi-purpose air-conditioned building, guest cottages, dormitories, orchidarium, wide camping ground, picnic area, jogging lane, and open amphitheatre, he said. Just ten minutes from the Gardens of Malasag is the Mapawa Nature Park which also offers facilities for adventure like trekking, horseback riding, waterfalls hopping, and zip line, he added. For those who want to experience the limitless aqua adventure, Esmedalla identified the Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort in Balingoan and the Duka Bay Resort in Medina which offer wide range of facilities like scuba diving spots, fish watching/feeding, cavern diving, wreck diving, night diving, and underwater photography. Tourists can also enjoy cool respite in Tiklas Falls in Gingoog City, Maria Cristina Falls and Hindang Falls in Iligan City, as well as Tinago Falls and Cathedral Falls in Lanao del Norte province. Northern Mindanao is also famous because of the Cagayan de Oro River White Water Rafting. He said the rafting stretch provides striking panoramic view of the rocky walls, lush vegetation, and breath-taking challenging varied rapids of less than 10 minutes intervals. The river is also best to do tubing (an indigenous pinoy version of wild water adventure) as well as kayaking. Other features if this site is the exciting walk in a 120m long skybridge suspended 120ft from the ground. Also, few yards away is the historical Macahambus Cave, where cavern leads to a natural veranda overlooking the river. Zip line and rappelling in the Macahambus (gorge) Adventure Park. Both gorge and cave are right on the sides of the national highway where private and public utilities take their routes. Another must-see destination is the Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park which is famous for its dolphins viewing area. The 200-hectare aquaculture production center, mangroves, and wildlife sanctuary is located in Sinacaban town, about 20 minutes by land from the Ozamiz Port. Likewise, the Misamis Occidental Economic Research in Barangay Pinef in Oroquieta City, serves as a research and farmers training center for marine and agriculture. It houses facilities for researches, laboratories, agricultural/marine exhibits and gardens of various plant species and fruit trees. A popular destination in Tangub City is the Highland Gardens in Barangay Hoyohoy which is considered both a botanical garden and a museum of living plants as well as site of the upcoming popular grass skiing. Meanwhile, Esmedalla said the entire province of Camiguin is considered an eco-tourism destination due to its rich natural attractions found in waterfalls, hot and cold springs, marine life, islets of fine white sand, diving areas, caves, old church ruins, and centennial-old houses. (PIA-10)

Robredo to grace IPs, LGUs meet in Cagayan de Oro

by Apipa Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 20 (PIA) -- Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo will again visit this city to grace the opening program of the working assembly of 80 representatives composed of indigenous peoples (IPs) and seven (7) participating local government units (LGUs) throughout the country. The assembly which aims to establish a working relationship between IPs and LGUs to mainstream and integrate ecological governance in development planning at the LGU levels will be held on November 21 at the Garden of Malasag, this city. It also seeks for the implementation of the mandatory representation of IPs in policy-making bodies and other local legislative councils pursuant to Republic Act No. 8371 or the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997 and with the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2010-119. Participating indigenous tribes include the Maeng in Buasao Watershed and Mt. Poswey in Abra; the Sibuyan Mangyan Tagabukid in Sibuyan Island, Romblon; the Bukidnon-Higaonon in Pulangi Watershed, Bukidnon; the Mansaka-Mandaya in Mt. Kampalili-Putting Bato-Tangub Range in Compostela Valley; the Higaonon of Misamis Oriental and the Subanen of Zamboanga del Sur. The participating LGUs, on the other hand, include the municipalities of Tubo in Abra; San Fernando and Cajidiocan in Romblon; New Bataan and Maragusan in Compostela Valley; and Malaybalay City and Cabanglasan in Bukidnon. The assembly is organized by the Foundation for the Philippine Environment (FPE) with the Philippine Association for Intercultural Development (PAFID) and funded by the European Union (EU) and Fundacion Desarollo Sostenido (FUNDESO) under a four-year project entitles “Mainstreaming Indigenous Peoples’ Participation in Environmental Governance (MIPPEG)” project. To be facilitated by the Alternative Law Groups (ALG), the assembly will also be graced by Zenaida Brigida Pawid, chairperson of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). (PIA-10)

On city jail tunnel: Probe on for lot’s lessee

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


CAGAYAN DE ORO -- Jail authorities are conducting deeper investigation on the identity of the man who rented a lot where an 86-meter tunnel near the Lumbia City jail here was discovered Tuesday afternoon.

Senior Inspector Joel Nacua, station commander of Lumbia Police Station, said he obtained a copy of the contract of lease between the lot’s owner, Don Ramon Aberasturi, and the lessee identified as a certain Christopher L. Moreno.

Nacua said based on the contract, Moreno would rent the lot within two years.

Under the contract, the lot is supposed to be developed into a stockyard for organic fertilizer and seedlings, which would be allegedly funded by the United Nations.

Police investigation showed that Moreno has allegedly paid 50 percent of the rent.

Cagayan de Oro City Jail Warden Superintendent Clint Russel Tangeres suspected that the lessee’s name is possibly fictitious since their activity is illegal.

On Tuesday, jail authorities discovered the two-meter-wide tunnel, which is nearly complete, near the jail complex.

Tangeres said the starting point of the tunnel was concealed by a makeshift hut some 170 meters away from the jail located inside Aberasturi’s lot with its endpoint leading to the jail.

“From the entrance point up to the jail, it measures around 86 meters, so four meters nalang ang kulang at aabot na talaga sa selda ng mga inmates,” Tangeres earlier said.

Authorities believed the tunnel has been under construction for almost five months.

Tangeres said had the tunnel not discovered, at least 100 prisoners would have escaped from the jail.

Inside the jail is the Reception and Diagnostic Center (RDC) where high profile cases or personalities are detained, including two Swedish nationals who were convicted for life sentence for human trafficking, two Chinese nationals who were also convicted for life sentence for drug trafficking, a police officer accused of rape and a drug lord.

Due to the incident, Tangeres said security measures have been beefed up inside the jail especially after they found out that the endpoint of the tunnel has already reached the old building where members of the notorious Batang Mindanao 29 gang and Batman are being housed.

“Yung dapat dalhin sa Davao Penal Colony ay pinapa-schedule na namin for security measure dahil mahirap na,” Tangeres said. (Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro)

STI CdO bags PCCL Mindanao title

by Jon Develos


STI College of Cagayan de Oro City waxed hot in the final quarter to beat Jose Maria College of Davao City, 104-98 in the Mindanao Finals of the Philippine Collegiate Champions League last Wednesday night at the Davao City Recreation Center.

The scored was tied at 29-all after the first quarter before JMC took a 54-53 halftime lead. STI, however, grabbed the driver’s seat, 76-75 midway to the final half.

STI’s double-teaming defense, offensive rebounding and quick passes made the difference as the Cagayanons enjoyed a 91-81 lead in the last seven minutes of play.

The Kings, however, refused to give up as they managed to cut their deficit to just one point, 99-98 in the final minute. But Richard Kwong made four free throws and stole an inbound pass to stop the Kings.

Forward Mark John Daanoy and guard Robert Tamparong exploded for 34 and 30 points, respectively for STI.

Pointguard Jay Calang added 14 points while Kwong and Maher Eduave both chipped in 10 points.

Rey Casanillo led for the Dodong Cagampang-mentored JMC Kings with 30 points followed by Joshua Adalid with 17 points while John Refuerzo and Marius Martinez each made 13 markers.

The STI squad mentored by coach Ed Gacoco will advance to the Sweet 16 Finals on Nov. 29 in Ormoc City according to organizer Joe Lipa.

“I’m happy with the performance of my boys who played with all their heart to win,” said Gacoco.

Holy Trinity College of General Santos City crushed Ateneo de Zamboanga, 110-76 to settle for third place.

Six HTC cagers scored in double figures – Meylan Landicho 23, Mc Denver Polistico 20, Chris Masaglang 18, Kevin Pragados 14, Rafael Lape 11 and Reymar Roxas 10.

Anton Pardo, who fired 44 points with 10 three-pointers against STI last Tuesday, was limited to just 17 points with only three triples.

The two-day league was sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) under Mindanao Cluster B regional director Regino “Boy” Cua.

The games will be shown on Studio 23 on Nov. 20 at 12 noon.

The boxscores:

(For 3rd place)

HTC GenSan (110) – Landicho 23, Polistico 20, Masaglang 18, Pragados 14, Lape 11, Roxas 10, Balmaceda 8, De Mesa 3, Pepito 3, Devna 0, Zobel 0, Santiago 0.

ATENEO Zamboanga (76) – A. Pardo 17, Basiri 15, Impe 14, Tandih 10, Surigao 8, Delos Santos 6, Ascano 4, Apostol 2, Elopre 0, Pardo 0, Basiri 0, Sumawan 0.

Quarterscores: 28-14, 51-40, 79-62, 110-76

(Championship)

STI CdO (104) – Daanoy 34, Tamparong 30, Galang 14, Eduave 10, Kwong 10, Abato 2, Villar 0, Omila 0, Lerio 0, Bolanio 0.

JMC Davao (98) – Casanillo 30, Adalid 17, Repurdo 13, Martinez 13, Bulac 6, Ombecan 6, Cutin 6, Caminse 3, Nayal 2, Guibay 2, Olan-Olan 0, Dayap 0, Cole 0, Escobido 0, De Guzman 0.

Quarterscores: 29-29, 53-54, 76-75, 104-98

Cagayan de Oro tunnel to jail discovered

by Cong B. Corrales, InterAksyon.com


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The tunnel that leads to the Lumbia City Jail from a makeshift shed inside an adjacent lot discovered on Tuesday afternoon may well be the most organized and well-funded escape plan authorities have seen in years.

Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) jail warden superintendent Clint Russel Tangeres, in an interview over a local radio station, said the 86-meter tunnel was near completion.

“Meron talagang nagfunding nito (Somebody funded this), although we have yet to investigate who among our inmates here stand to benefit from this tunnel,” Tangeres said.

Tangeres said that the tunnel -- which is one square meter wide -- is only three meters short from the BJMP Building when discovered last Tuesday.

“Mga three to four days more, siguro magagamit na ito para pag escape ng mga inmates (the tunnel may be used for the escape of the inmates). We are still investigating who stands to benefit from this tunnel. As of now, all of our inmates here are suspects,” he said.

Tangeres added that the tunnel has been dug for at least five months.

When the tunnel was discovered, it was just four meters short before it reaches the cells of the penal facility.

Had it reached the compound, Tangeres posited, it would lead directly to the cell blocks of Batang Mindanao 29, Batman gang, and the Reception and Diagnostic Center (RDC) that holds high-profile convicts which includes the two Swedish nationals serving life imprisonment for human trafficking, two Chinese nationals serving life for drug trafficking, and a police officer arrested for rape and drug trafficking.

A makeshift shed on a leased lot adjacent to the jail hid the two-meter wide tunnel’s entrance.

Lumbia Police Station Commander Police Senior Inspector Joel Nacua told local reporters Thursday that the lot is owned by Ramon Aberasturi, who has leased the lot to a certain Christopher L. Moreno.

“In the copy of the contract of lease between Aberasturi and Moreno, the lot is said to be developed into a stockyard for fertilizers and seedlings allegedly funded by the United Nations,” said Nacua.

The police official said two men seen working at the entrance of the tunnel have been questioned. He identified the two as Charlie and Albert Laguna of Iligan City.

Nacua said the Lagunas have been let go as no charges were filed against them after their lawyers fetched them.

During the police interview, the Lagunas denied having any part in the diggings, saying they were only caretakers of the lot.

Jail warden Tangeres said security in and around the facility has been augmented after the tunnel was discovered. He said authorities will be questioning Moreno and those who live in the vicinity of the tunnel’s entrance.

Macanhan flyover opens

by Nicole J. Managbanag


CAGAYAN de Oro City Mayor Vicente Emano said he felt relieved when the P117-million Macanhan flyover was successfully inaugurated on Tuesday.

Emano said he was very grateful to UKC Builders, the contractor of the flyover, for completing the project on time which he hoped would erase all negative comments from some residents.

“The flyover was constructed for everyone to help ease the traffic condition in the city, particularly in this area,” Emano said during Tuesday’s inauguration.

He said the City Government has saved almost P2 million from the two flyovers, the savings of which will be used for the painting of the side-rails.

Emano said part of the savings would also be used to buy materials that would add to the safety and beautification of the two flyovers.

Meanwhile, the construction of the side road going to Barangays Balulang and Macanhan is expected to be finished before the year ends despite the minor problem on the road right of way.

Emano said he had already negotiated with the landowners of the affected area, adding that it was already settled.

With the opening of the two-lane flyover, Councilor Emmanuel Abejuela, chairperson of the City Council committee on Roads and Traffic Administration, said at least 60 percent of traffic will be decongested.

Father and son burned to death inside their car

by AARON RECUENCO


MANILA, Philippines -- The three-year old boy was crying loudly inside the burning car but local residents could not do anything to help him and his father, until they both charred to death in what police believe to be a case of suicide of a lawyer in Cagayan de Oro City early Tuesday morning.

Senior Supt. Gerardo Rosales, chief of the Cagayan de Oro City Police, said the local residents were prevented by the 41-year old lawyer identified as Rey Fabre from rescuing even his son Rayver Cyrick.

“The bystanders were trying to help them, trying to rescue the boy because they heard him crying. They even shattered the glass window, but the one who was attempting to take the boy out was shot allegedly by Attorney Fabre,” said Rosales.

He identified the wounded bystander as Fiel Villamor.

“So what they did is to pull Villamor and took them to the hospital while some just watched the incident helplessly because they were already afraid to help, afraid that they would be shot too,” said Rosales.

“Both of them died inside the car, the investigators said they were burned to death,” he added.

Rosales narrated that at around 4:30 a.m. Tuesday, Fabre asked two of the bystanders about the way towards the national highway in Barangay Bayabas.

But on his way on board their vehicle, the car got stuck on the mud alongside the road.

The official said the two bystanders sought the assistance of the other people in the area to push the car but Fabre, who was the one driving the car, would not cooperate.

Instead, Rosales said the lawyer stepped hard on the gas pedal until the car overheated and later engulfed in flame.

The bystanders immediately shattered the window glass after hearing the boy crying loudly inside the car. But while trying to get the boy, Villamor was shot.

The victim suffered bulletwounds in the right shoulder and right ear.

“We believe it was case of suicide, it is unfortunate that the boy also suffered,” said Rosales.

Witnesses told the police that prior to the incident, a woman alighted the car and told the bystanders that she would seek assistance.

The official said they are yet to interview the victims’ relatives whom he said are still shocked over the incident.

“We were not able to talk to them because they are still shock of what happened, but the initial investigation revealed was that it has something to do with a family problem,” said Rosales.

Recovered inside the car were a .38 revolver, a knife, an empty magazine for a 9mm, two spent shells of a 9mm and a firearms license.

Tourism board now accepts ‘Halad sa Pasko’ entries

by Published in the Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro newspaper


THE City Tourism Board of Cagayan de Oro is once again holding its yearly “Halad sa Pasko” competitions and now accepts entries.

The competitions will include “Bangga sa Daygon” and “Indgay sa Parol”.


A cash prize of P15,000 awaits the winner of the Indigay sa Parol, which will be held on December 3 at the Limketkai Center. It is open to all students, barangays, groups or individuals of Cagayan de Oro City.

Second, third, and consolation prizes are P10,000, P5,000, and P500, respectively.

Registration forms are now available at the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office or at the City Tourism Showhouse in Divisoria. Deadline for submission of the forms shall be on November 28.

The Bangga sa Daygon is slated on December 17 at the SM City mall, and is open to all glee clubs and choral groups of both private and public elementary schools in Cagayan de Oro City.

First prize for the choral competition is P25,000, while the second and third prizes are P20,000 and P15,000, respectively. Deadline of the submission of registration forms is December 9.

All interested participants for both contests may inquire and look for City Tourism Officer Imma Rae D. Gatuslao, or Ophelia B. Fuertes at the City Tourism Office, or call telephone number (088)856-3164. (PR)

Published in the Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro newspaper on November 14, 2011.

3rd Mindanao Region Catechists’ Convention held in Cagayan de Oro

by Louise Dumas/Lamdag


CAGAYAN DE ORO City, Nov. 13, 2011—Some 238 participants made up of Diocesan Directors and Coordinators, and catechists from the different ecclesiastical jurisdictions in Mindanao participated in the 3rd Mindanao Region Catechists Convention held in Cagayan de Oro on October 24-27.

The convention aimed to underscore the lights and shadows of Renewed Catechesis in Mindanao, to improve more the Catechesis as envisioned by PCP II and to strengthen the bond among Catechetical Ministers in the Churches of Mindanao.

During a concelebrated Mass at the opening of the convention, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma pointed out in his homily the significant role of catechists in sharing the good news to the children and families of today in view of tomorrow’s church. Quoting the pastoral exhortation of Pope Benedict XVI’s “Verbum Domini,” he re-echoed the importance of the Bible in teaching catechesis.

He said the catechists are also the voices of the Word as they teach in classrooms and homes. They draw inspiration from Jesus, the persona of the Word and the saints who incarnated Jesus through their life and witness. Catechists have also the big responsibility to give the right interpretation of the Word whose source is the Church. And catechists give the Word a way in homes, in church and the world. Their life and witness is the strongest pathway of the Bible.

Meanwhile, ECCCE Executive Secretary Sr. Jesusa Enginco, OP, stressed in a keynote speech that genuine renewal concerning catechesis according to PCP II must affect all three areas in their inter-relationships: Renewed Catechesis, Renewed Social Apostolate, and Renewed Worship, all centered on Jesus Christ.

For his part, Digos Bishop Guillermo Afable has noted that in the process of revisiting the development of catechesis based on the groups’ report, he has seen much growth in catechesis, in that, it became more Christo-centric, inculturated, rooted in the word of God and communitarian.

Putting emphasis on communitarian, the bishop further said that catechists should slowly start to move away from student and school catechesis to family and community centered catechesis so as to make the Christian family and communities mature and grow in Christian faith.

After much discussion on the lights and shadows of the catechetical ministry throughout the region, proposals were made that include the establishment of a Mindanao-wide catechetical institute for standardized training and formation and to make catechesis a primarily paid profession.

The group also came out with a Statement of Solidarity expressing their sympathy on the killing of Fr. Fausto Tentorio, PIME who was gunned down on October 17. The statement called for a just and lasting peace in Mindanao, a situation which Fr. Fausto had been working for in his 33 years of mission in the Philippines.

Themed “Revisiting the Development of Catechesis in Mindanao in the Light of PCP II after 20 years”, the MRCC 2011 was organized by Bishop Guillermo Afable, DD, as Bishop in-charge; Sr. Vilma Esmael, OND, MRCCM Coordinator; Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD; Fr. Eddie Magtrayo, Director of Catechetical Ministry, Archdiocese of CDO; Sr. Josie Alabado, TMM, Coordinator-CDO chapter; Sub-regional Coordinators, Diocesan Catechetical Ministry Directors and Coordinators.

CAGAYAN DE ORO MISHAP KILLS THREE

by RAFFY AYENG



THREE people were killed while four others were wounded in a vehicular accident at about 3:30 a.m. along the highway of barangay Cugman in Cagayan de Oro City yesterday morning. Senior Police Officer 1 Edgardo Dador identified the three fatalities as Ronnel Akyatan, Nelcar Licuanan and Carlito Moga. The other casualties—Reynald Salino, Dustin Serialis, Arnel Kahoy and Jovane Virtudaza—were brought to the Northern Mindanao Medical Center for treatment of wounds and bruises. The report said that the passenger multicab, where the victims were on board, slammed into a parked 10- wheeler truck after overtaking a motorcycle.

Cag. de Oro Tourism Board now accepts ‘Halad sa Pasko’ entries

by Cheryl C. Moncay


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 11 (PIA) -- The City Tourism Board, here, is once again holding its yearly ‘Halad sa Pasko’ competitions and is now beginning to accept qualified applicants. These competitions consist of the “Bangga sa Daygon (Christmas Carol Contest)” and the “Indigay sa Parol (Christmas Lantern Contest).” A cash prize of Php15,000 awaits the winner of the Indigay sa Parol which will be held on December 3, at the Limketkai Center. Open to all students, barangays, groups or individuals of Cagayan de Oro City, each participant of the lantern contest is allowed only one (1) entry. The 2nd, 3rd, and consolation prizes are Php10,000, Php5,000, and Php500, respectively. Registration forms are now available at the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office or at the City Tourism Showhouse in Divisoria where interested participants may also inquire about the complete guidelines of the contest. Deadline for submission of the registration forms for the Christmas Lantern Contest shall be on Nov. 28. The Bangga sa Daygon, on the other hand, will happen on Dec. 17, at SM City Mall, and is open to all glee clubs and choral groups of both private and public elementary schools in the city. First prize for the choral competition is a whooping Php25,000, while the 2nd and 3rd prizes are Php20,000 and Php15,000, respectively. Submission of registration forms for the choral competition shall be accepted until Dec. 9. All interested participants for both contests may inquire and look for City Tourism Officer Imma Rae D. Gatuslao, or Ophelia B. Fuertes at the City Tourism Office, or call telephone no. (088)856-3164. (CIO/PIA-10)

DENR-LGU Camiguin ink MOA on the co-management of Mt. Ilihan EcoTourism project

by G. Thiam


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 10 -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, region 10 (DENR-10) has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Province of Camiguin and the municipality of Guinsiliban for the conservation of two (2) eco-tourism projects. These eco tourism projects include the Mt. Ilihan and the Cantaan Coastal Resource Management Project (CRMP), both in the municipality of Guinsiliban. Located in Barangay Butay, Mt. Ilihan is a 3-hour climb uphill where one will have a majestic view of the bluish-green ridge of the island’s mountains and slopes. The peaceful ambiance at its peak is an ideal camping site. Also called “Munting Calvaryo (Small Mt. Calvary), Mt. Ilihan is also a religious site often visited during the Lenten season and considered as the last frontier in the municipality. Under the MOA, DENR is tasked to conduct survey mapping and assessment of the area for Mt. Ilihan/Munting Calvaryo Forest Park and provide technical assistance in terms of protection, rehabilitation and development for effective forest resources management. The DENR shall also assist LGU-Guinsiliban in determining the carrying capacity on the site as an eco-tourism destination and other technical concerns, such as, the National Greening Program (NGP) and Solid Waste Management (SWM). For its part, the Provincial LGU of Camiguin shall provide support for the project, such as, manpower, Integration of the comprehensive management and development plan to the provincial development plant plan. It shall also conduct monitoring and evaluation, together with DENR and the Guinsiliban LGU to enhance the operation and management of the project. Likewise, the Guinsiliban LGU shall assign a focal person to the Mt. Ilihan Eco-tourism Project/ Munting Calvaryo Forest Park and develop, rehabilitate and protect the whole area covered by the project and exercise direct control and supervision over it. Meanwhile, DENR 10 will co-manage and develop the Cantaan CRMP, in coordination with the LGU’s of Camiguin and Guinsiliban, in close coordination with the people’s organization (PO’s). The project site covers a total area of 1,116.2821 hectares broken down as follows: offshore area, coral and sea grasses, 1,023.0469 hectares, foreshore area/salvage zone, 90.7352 has., and A &D Joint Venture Agreement (JVA), 2.50 has. The DENR’s tasks for the Cantaan CRMP are to provide technical assistance in terms of mangrove protection, rehabilitation and development and will also be responsible for filing and prosecuting criminal charges in court for violation of environment and natural resources laws. It shall also responsible in the monitoring and evaluation of researches conducted by the academe, non-government organizations (NGO’s) and non-government agencies (NG’As) implemented on the site with the collaboration of MLGU and PLGU. The PLGU of Camiguin shall provide livelihood or any income generating activities to support the project implementation and will also ensure the continuity/sustainability of the existing project to the community. They are also to provide assistance in the protection against any illegal activities pertaining to ENR, Forestry and Fishery Laws, in coordination with the concerned agency. For its part, the LGU of Guinsiliban shall capacitate and strengthen the organization through training, IEC, linkages with other agencies, they are also responsible in the establishment and implementation of livelihood projects beneficial to the members of the organization. The LGU was represented by the Provincial Government of Camiguin led by Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo with Guinsiliban Mayor Helenio N. Abecia. Witnessing the MOA signing were the Provincial Planning and Development Officer (PPDO) Felicisimo Gomes, Sr., and several members of the Guinsiliban Sangguniang Bayan (SB) and some of its Punong Barangays. The DENR was represented by Regional Executive Director Corazon B. Galinato, together with Regional Technical Director Belen O. Daba of the Protected Areas, Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Service (PAWCZMS) and Regional Technical Director Danilo C. Cacanindin of the Ecosystem Research Development Service (ERDS). Also with them were Coastal Marine Management Division Chief Teodulo A. Manit, Political and Legal Liaison Officer Dolores Grace Chan and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Gaudioso B. Malaton. After the MOA signing a ceremonial tree planting was undertaken, were in 30 seedlings of endemic tree species of “kalingag (Cinnamomum mercadoi)” and “bayog.” The trees were planted at the foot of Mt. Ilihan, Butay, Guinsiliban. (DENR/PIA-10)

Cagayan de Oro needs traffic engineer

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


THE Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) needs a well-trained and experienced traffic engineer who would solve parking problems and traffic jam and choose the best public transit routes in Cagayan de Oro city.

City Councilor Edgar Cabanlas made this suggestion in reaction to Councilor Adrian Barba’s special report about some RTA personnel who are negligent of their duty.

Cabanlas said although he is not against how RTA overseer Superintendent Antonio Montalba manage the RTA, an engineer who undergoes studies on traffic management is much better than a police who had lots of responsibilities.

“It’s not that I don’t believe in the capability of Montalba but I think an engineer should be the one to manage the RTA who could focus on the problem,” Cabanlas said during Tuesday’s regular session.

Councilor Alden Bacal, chairperson of the City Council’s Committee on Public Utility, said he is now taking an initial move on this and met with an engineer who is very qualified and fit for the job.

Bacal said this engineer studied traffic management and willing to help in solving the traffic problem in the city, including the putting up of new traffic signage.

In his special report, Barba noted the absence of traffic enforcers in some areas such as during the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days celebration where traffic congestion occurred.

Barba said traffic enforcers have focused their attention at cemeteries but discard some other junctions in the city.

“Another problem is that drivers no longer adhere to traffic rules,” he added.

Barba said some RTA personnel could not be found in those areas where there presence is needed, especially during holidays.

5.2 magnitude earthquake hits Valencia City; 16 persons injured

by (PNA)

scs/MUC/mec


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 8 (PNA) -- At least 16 persons were injured while a shopping mall and some other business establishments, including a hospital, sustained cracks and damages when a 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck Valencia City in Bukidnon province Monday afternoon.

Initial reports reaching this Northern Mindanao region’s frontier and capital city of Cagayan de Oro said among the damaged buildings were the Roy Plaza Shopping Complex, Gaisano Mall, Baoseng Enterprises, the Valencia Sanitarium Hospital and some grocery stores.

“At least 23 houses within the city proper were also reported affected by the tremor,” said Major Eugene Julio C. Osias lV, spokesman of the Army’s 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division.

He added that the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade based in Bukidnon was already directed to extend help to the people affected by the earthquake.

The names of the injured victims were not immediately known.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said the epicenter of the quake, which occurred at 5:43 p.m., was traced at 32 kilometers southwest of Malaybalay City, also in Bukidnon.

The tremor was tectonic in origin, the Phivolcs office in Cagayan de Oro reported.

It was also felt in some other parts of Northern Mindanao and also northwest of Davao and northeast of Cotabato.

Velencia City Social Worker Jerrys Timogan reported that the patients earlier admitted at the Valencia Sanitarium Hospital were transferred later to other hospitals in that Bukidnon city.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD-Region 10) could not immediately determine the extent of damages brought about by the earthquake.

Region 10 OCD Regional Director Carmelito Lupo already deployed regional officials and personnel here and OCD teams in Bukidnon province and Valencia City for immediate assessment of the damage.

Valencia City Mayor Leandro Jose H. Catarata also mobilized all of the city government’s department heads to assess the damage while directing the city’s social welfare office to extend assistance to the victims.

The City Chief Executive likewise mobilized the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

Mindanao ICT players firm-up moves to craft island-wide ICT investment plan

by PIA Press Release


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 5 (PIA) -- Representatives of the various Information and Communications Technology (ICT) councils in Mindahttp://www.zamboanga.com/z/index.php?title=Genealogynao have agreed to strongly collaborate for the formulation of the Mindanao-wide ICT Investment Plan, a major initiative which they hope to complete in the next few years. In a joint statement signed by the Mindanao ICT councils and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) at the opening of 4th National ICT Summit here Friday, industry players affirmed the importance of ICT in fast-tracking the socio-economic transformation of Mindanao, and committed to collaborate in addressing the challenges facing the country’s ICT sector. The joint statement highlighted the formulation of a Mindanao-wide ICT Investment Plan that would include detailed roadmap of how the island can accelerate investments and strengthen mechanisms that will enable Mindanao attract digital opportunities to facilitate economic growth. The Mindanao ICT Councils also committed to align their plans and projects with the strategies identified under MinDA’s Mindanao 2020 Peace and Development Framework, particularly the broader aim for the establishment of a coherent Mindanao ICT plan that seeks to realize the island’s ICT potentials and address digital divide. “Our 20 year vision for Mindanao includes the attainment of state-of-the-art ICT infrastructure that provides reliable, affordable and high speed connectivity, and one that provides the means to achieve integrated economic growth,” said MinDA chair Secretary Luwalhati Antonino. The ICT councils urged the rest of the ICT stakeholders in Mindanao to take part in the formulation and subsequent implementation of the investment plan. They also called on the private sector to collectively push for advocacies to improve the business environment and identify development programs and projects that can be jointly pursued. It was reported during the summit that the Philippines remains as the number one call center destinations in the world since 2010, overtaking India by a significant margin. This status was attributed by several ICT experts to the world-class quality customer service that only Filipinos can provide. However, alongside the opportunities that ICT can bring to speed up growth an development in certain areas, also emerged the imperative for greater access to ICT by a larger section of the society. “As the digital divide grows, so does the economic gap,” stressed Taguig City Rep. Sigfrido Tińga, Chairperson of the Committee on ICT at the House of Representatives and one of the ICT summit speakers. To address these imperatives, the summit cited that more initiatives for ICT development in Mindanao shall be pursued especially in the so-called ‘next wave cities’ in ICT, such as, Davao, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and Zamboanga. (MinDA/PIA-10)




BIMP-EAGA Ministers underscore strong interconnectivity in the sub-region

by PIA Press Release


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 4 (PIA)-- The signing Ministers of the Brunei-Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) emphasized the role of interconnectivity as the major stimulant for socio-economic development in the sub-region. In a Joint Statement issued after the 16th BIMP-EAGA Ministerial Meeting, the signing ministers from the four countries led by Secretary Gregory Domingo of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Secretary Luwalhati Antonino of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) from the Philippine delegation, agreed that it is only through strong connectivity that the food basket and eco-tourism vision can be achieved. With this, the ministers urged all the concerned officials to prioritize the implementation of pending transports infrastructure projects and trade facilitation mechanism. They also deemed Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to be an integral aspect in achieving connectivity in the sub-region. To further strengthen the transport sector of BIMP-EAGA, the Transport, Infrastructure, Information and Technology Development cluster has proposed to conduct a study aiming to enhance the implementation of the BIMP-EAGA Transport Memorandum of Understanding. The cluster had also expressed intent to have a capacity building seminar of the ASEAN multi-modal transport. Secretary Antonino, herself, commended the accomplishments of the Transport cluster, saying that their experience in engaging the transport ministers to ensure the needed policy support for the sector’s projects is something that is worth replicating in the other clusters. “I think it is high time for the EAGA clusters to strengthen the level of collaboration with Customs Immigration Quarantine and Security (CIQS), Natural Resources Development (NRD) cluster and Tourism to ensure that identified projects and action plans are convergent and supportive of each other,” she added. The high-level EAGA meeting engaged the ministers in a healthy and productive discussion on addressing key imperatives and putting forward initiatives that will define BIMP-EAGA’s strategic role in achieving progress and narrowing the development gaps in the sub-region. This year, the ministers officially expressed their support for the mainstreaming of the local government units and state governments in the operational structure and mechanisms of the BIMP-EAGA cooperation. “Let us take a proactive stance in this undertaking, and continue to exert focus on our strategic directions for the BIMP-EAGA so we may achieve gains that shall set a benchmark for dynamic sub-regional cooperation,” urged Secretary Domingo. Likewise, the ministers also recognized the crucial role being played by the BIMP-EAGA media in communicating various sub-regional initiatives and generating public awareness and support. They have also expressed support for the implementation of an effective BIMP-EAGA communication strategy which was previously developed with support from the Asian Development Bank. (MinDA/PIA-10)





CEPALCO announces 12-hour power interruption on Nov. 6

by Lou Castillo


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 3 (PIA) -- The Cagayan Electric Power & Light Co., Inc. (CEPALCO) has informed all its customers that power supply will be interrupted, this coming Sunday, Nov. 6, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Ralph Joseph Paguio, Vice President of CEPALCO, said the reason for the 12-hour power interruption is the transfer of a 34.5KV structure at LimKetKai Conmplex and the line maintenance work along Maharlika Highway in Kauswagan, this city. The affected portions include the area covered by Camaman-an Feeder #4 (34.5KV) along McDonalds at LimKetKai Center in BarangayLapasan, and all of RER Subdivision, Phase 2, towards Fortune Express Shop along Maharlika Highway. Also included are all of NHA-KSS Subdivision and portion of Bayabas near Manila Broadcasting Radio Station and a greater part of Barangay Bulua from Bulua Rotonda towards all of Barangay Iponan in the City. Paguio said the interruption time of switching work is set for 1 hour and 30 min., from 6:00a.m. to 7:30 a.m and from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The affected areas during the switching work are the following: those of Camaman-an near and including the San Jose and St. Vianney Seminaries, greater portion of Camaman-an proper towards Bontong, Bolonsori up to Upper Camaman -an and Hayes Subdivision including Tipolohon. Part of Limketkai Center, Lapasan including, the Philippine National Bank (PNB) and Allied Bank, along Recto Ave. from corner Agora Road towards Marcos Bridge including Coca-Cola Plant & Osmeña Ext. Portion of Antonio Luna St. towards all of Mabulay Subdivision including portion of the Provincial Capitol and Provincial Hospital Area Medical Center area along and bounded by Capistrano St., Echem St., A.Velez St., and Recto Ave., including all of Consolacion. Corrales Ext. from Recto Avenue towards most of Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) area, Agora Market and Gaabucayan St . Julio Pacana St. from Recto Avenue towards all of Macabalan area, RER Subdivision Phase I, including Dolores Compound and Apovel Subdivision, Terry Hills Subdivision and Anhawon, Bulua area. Also affected are the areas covered by Carmen Feeder # 3: Portions of Carmen, along the vicinities of Villarin St. towards portion of Canitoan-Pagatpat Road, including St. Mary’s Academy (formerly Cathedral School of Technology). Golden Village, City Hospital-Department of Health (DOH) Area, Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) Reservoir and Seriña St. from Villarin St. down to Madonna and Child Hospital. Max Suniel St. from Villarin St. down towards portion of Mabolo St., including Matilde Neri St., Dabatian St. and Cagayan de Oro College (COC-Phinma), portion of Lirio St. area, Upper Carmen towards Dagong. SM City, Pryce Hotel, Southern Philippines Union Mission (SPUM) & South East Asia Rural Social Leadership Institute (SEARSOLIN) and greater part of Patag including Calamansi Drive. Paguio, however, said power will be restored immediately without further notice when line works are completed earlier than scheduled. (PIA-10)





9 LGUs in Region 10 sign MOA with DENR for computerization of land records

by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Nov. 2 (PIA) -- At least nine local government units (LGU’s), in region 10, have forged a memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), for the computerization of their land records, as of May, this year. Covered by for computerization are the land records of a total of 13,068,398 parcels of lands, Paquito D. Melicor, Jr., Regional Director of the Land Management Bureau (LMB), DENR-10, said. Among those which has completed their computerization of land records are the following LGU’s of Bukidnon: Manolo Fortich, 22,199 parcels, Malaybalay City, 34,954 parcels, and Maramag, 21,823 parcels, while that of Valencia City, involving 40,709 parcels of land is still for MOA signing. Still on progress are the Misamis Oriental LGU’s of Opol, 12,922 parcels, Manticao, 4,139 parcels, Lugait, 2,918 pacels, and Naawan, 3,755 parcels and in Misanmis Occidental, particularly, Oroquieta City, for 19,627 parcels of land. Melicor said the computerization of the land records will not only assist DENR-10 in improving its land-related services, but increases their revenue collection of the LGU’s through precise land information with General Information Service (GIS) applications on property identification and valuations, including effective and efficient planning of land-based development projects. He said DENR- 10, has adopted an integrated computerized information system to improve land-related services by encoding their respective lot data information, cadastral and approved subdivision lots, in a bid to eradicate the proliferation of duplicate and spurious titles and other issues on land records management. However, since DENR-10 has limited manpower to fast track the encoding of lot data information, including cadastral and approved subdivision lots, from the cities and municipalities in the region, it has initiated a partnership with the LGU’s through the MOA. He said this is done through the establishment of the Land Administration and Management System (LAMS), which is designed to provide effective management of land records and efficient delivery of land transactions and information services to the public. With the LAMS database and imaging technology and by computerized inspection, verification and approval of survey returns, effective land titling activities will soon be realized. Meanwhile, the LAMS will be the platform for managing the land data and information of the LMB and Land Management Services (LMS) in the DENR’s regional offices, where data may be inputted from other systems. These other systems include the Philippine Reference System (PRS) of 1992 Project of the National Mapping Resources Information Authority (NAMRIA) and the Land Titling Computerization Project (LTCP) of the Land Registration Authority (LRA), Melicor added. (PIA-10)





24 nabbed sex workers no health cards - police

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


AT LEAST 24 of the 25 pimps and commercial sex workers earlier apprehended by police authorities during a saturation drive last week were found to have no health cards from the City Health Office (CHO).

Inspector Eldegardo Gacus, chief of the Homicide Section of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo), said the 24 commercial sex workers were ambulant and considered ‘high risk’ for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and even human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) because they did not undergo check-up.

“There are risks that they can become carriers of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (Aids) especially since they did not undergo check-up,” Gacus said.

Because of this, Gacus said they brought the commercial sex workers to the CHO along with the officials of Tisaka, an organization that helps and assists prostituted women in the city.

Gacus said cases of vagrancy have not been filed against the women following the request of Tisaka to take care of them.

“But before they were brought to the CHO, they have undergone lecture by a pastor for spiritual upliftment,” Gacus added.

Earlier, CHO Dr. Jerry Calingasan said all that they can do is to monitor whether or not these prostituted women will undergo regular check-up.

“CHO does not care what they are doing in front of us and in the public, just as long as they have validated health cards. But to stop them from their activity, we can’t do that,” Calingasan said as he called on the police to bring commercial sex workers without health cards to the CHO for check-up.

Apart from the check-up, Calingasan said the CHO also requests the commercial sex workers to show community tax as proof that they are already 18 years old.

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