Misamis Oriental News

From Philippines
Jump to navigation Jump to search
→ → Go back HOME to Zamboanga: the Portal to the Philippines.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
Create Name's page

Regions | Philippine Provinces | Philippine Cities | Municipalities | Barangays | High School Reunions

Misamis Oriental Photo Gallery

Misamis Oriental Realty

Philippine News

Misami Oriental - Archived News

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

Mining firms with permits from DENR threaten Misor

by goldstardailynews.com


MISAMIS Oriental's Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) has sounded alarm bells over reports that at least seven large-scale mining firms were allowed to operate in the province by the environment department. Already, the mining firms are posing a threat to the water source of Alubijid, according to a town official. Vice Gov. Norris Babiera, vice chairperson of the PPOC, said he was surprised to find out that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) approved the exploration permits of the mining firms. The permits, he said, would allow the firms to operate in the western par ts of the province.

The PPOC is in the forefront of a campaign against destructive mining operations in the province. Together with of ficials in Opol town, authorities have raided mining sites along the Iponan River. Jose Camenci, Alubijid's municipal planning and development coordinator, reported to the PPOC that several mining firms were already operating in the hinterLand villages of the town without consultating the town government. "These mining firms are operating within the declared Alubijid watershed areas. If this will not be stopped, then our source of water would be affected," he said. Officials identified the mining firms: Cessmag Development Inc. (5,582 hectares), Mindanao Astoria Mining Corp. (6,638.581 hectares), Pilipinas Mining Resources Inc. (468.22 hectares), Sunrise Pacific Rim Minerals Resources Inc. (2,106 hectares), Bountiful Geomines, Inc. (1,945.7379 hectares), APC Mining Corp. (2,367.6275 hectares) and Linktone Peak Resources Inc. (13,954.37 hectares).

"I was shocked when the report reached the council," Babiera told The Gold Star Daily. He said local officials were asked to coordinate with various people's organizations, and church and non-government organizations to mobilize and show their opposition to mining operations in the province. Babiera said the PPOC was trying to find out who exactly approved the exploration permits.






DAR and SUCs sign MOA for agrarian reform project in Region 10

by (Editha R. Salvador/PIA 10) l


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, May 10 (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform has signaled all systems go for the implementation of the Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) project in Region 10, after the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) with partner state universities and colleges in Northern Mindanao recently.

DAR-10 Regional Director Felix Aguhob and ABAMIN Party-list Rep. Maximo Rodriguez witnessed the MOA signing between the Misamis Oriental State College of Agriculture and Technology (MOSCAT) and the DAR Provincial Offices in the region.

The signing of the MOA by MOSCAT President Dr. Rosalito Quirino and his counterparts PAROs Julio Celestiano of North Bukidnon, Zoraida Macadindang of Misamis Oriental, Ibrahim Marmay of Lanao del Norte and Henry Taladua of Misamis Occidental was held at the MOSCAT campus in Claveria, Misamis Oriental last March 29.

DAR-10 also facilitated the MOA signing between the Central Mindanao University (CMU) President Dr. Maria Luisa Soliven and PAROs Julio Celestiano of North Bukidnon and Engr. Norberto Paquingan of South Bukidnon as well as the MOA signing between Camiguin Polytechnic State College (CPSC) President Dr. Venus Lammawin and PARO Rodulfo Gamo of Camiguin.

Initially designed to be implemented for a maximum period of three years, ARCCESS was conceptualized and designed by the DAR as a government-led initiative for an intersectoral partnership to help improve the organizational capacities of participating agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) in agri-enterprise development.

However, prior to the implementation of an agri-enterprise project, it is important to assess the opportunities available in the agrarian reform area where the enterprise will be based, as well as the needs and readiness of the agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) as program recipients. Thus, DAR tapped government agencies and academic institutions, civil society organizations and private corporations or partnerships which, after undergoing a process of eligibility and accreditation, would be charged with the duty to provide a range of services that will improve the performance of the ARBO’s agri-enterprise, its access to markets, and its ability to compete against other markets.

MOSCAT, CMU, and CPSC have qualified to handle the needs assessment and design assessment for the identified agri-enterprise projects in the provinces of Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental.

ORO Chamber holds techno confab

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN de Oro City – The Oro Chamber, in cooperation with the Misamis Oriental Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce (MOFCCCI) and DOST conducted a two-day Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) Workshop in the city, April 26 to 27, this year. The two-day workshop was designed to assist Chamber member-micro, small and medium enterprises affected by Storm Sendong, to avail of P2 million grants for equipment from DOST.

Opol town sets barangay performance evaluation tool

by Elaine O. Ratunil


OPOL, Misamis Oriental, May 8 (PIA) -- The municipal government of Opol launched recently a new performance evaluation tool to facilitate implementation of program at barangay and municipal government level.

The Barangay Good Governance Index (BGGI) aims to strategize formulation and implementation of programs between the barangay and the municipal local government through a common direction, integrated resource utilization, capacity, and capability building and sharing responsibilities.

Town Mayor Dexter B. Yasay said that the BGGI seeks to enhance the barangay councils’ ability to deliver effective and efficient quality basic services according to their mandates, which will produce a greater significant impact to the constituency.

BGGI is also a process of shared learning and managing performance, as well as making less politicized, if not eradicate politics in the engagement between the Municipal and Barangay governments.

BGGI covers eight performance areas of the barangays: health, peace and order, disaster preparedness and management, environment, agriculture and fisheries, social services and non-handicapping environment, infrastructure, and planning and budgeting/financial management.

The launching last March 2 was highlighted by the recognition of outstanding performance of barangays in the implementation of health services. Barangay Luyong Bonbon was awarded with the Best in Health Programs, with a P25,000-worth of health-related project.

The coaching and monitoring of barangays in all performance areas will become a year-round activity. (PIO/PIA10)

DILG-10 aids in poverty alleviation of NorMin towns

by (Rochelle Dagang/DILG/PIA-10)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 7 -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 10 underlined programs and special projects this year directed towards eradicating poverty, specifically the Performance Challenge Fund (PCF), Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig sa Lahat (SALINTUBIG), Mindanao Basic Urban Services Sector Project-Millennium Development Goals (MBUSSP-MDG), and Local Government Support Fund (LGSF).

In a press release, Atty. Rene Burdeos, DILG-10 Regional Director, said the SALINTUBIG is designed to provide water supply systems for waterless towns and enhance the capacity of the local government units (LGUs)/water service providers in the planning, implementation, and operation of water supply facilities.

In Region 10, there are 16 LGU beneficiaries for this program and most of them are presently working on their respective detailed engineering design. Said LGUs are hopeful that these water projects will improve the water services in their towns and reduce the incidence of water-borne and sanitation related diseases.

DILG will be responsible for the capacity development requirements of the LGUs and the water service providers in the planning, development, and operations/management of the water services funded thru the SALINTUBIG.

Another water project is slated for Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental as a beneficiary of the MBUSS Project and MDG.

The PCF is an incentive fund given to eligible LGUs to be used for its priority projects that will hopefully bring progress in their community. One PCF project that falls under poverty reduction is the water system of Damulog, Bukidnon, which is already operational, while 12 various projects of same target from the nine LGU beneficiaries in the Region are working towards completion.

Another cash incentive is the LGSF, which is meant to support the implementation of the priority projects of the national government. Out of 77 LGU beneficiaries in Region 10, 28 of them or 36% have enrolled such projects as health centers, provincial hospital, water system, farm-to-market roads, among others. On the other hand, 30% of them are hoping to build public market, multi-purpose drying pavement, slaughterhouse, roads and bridges in their towns in order to provide income to the community.

CDO wins original veggie recipe tilt

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, May 4 (PIA) -- The Kagay-anon Veggie Roll entry bagged the top prize in yesterday’s Regional Recipe Development Contest, initiated by the National Nutrition Council.

The regional cook fest was initiated as a prelude to the Nutrition Month Celebration coming July.

There were 18 entries submitted and only six qualified entries made it to the final cook off yesterday at Hotel Conchita.

Camiguin province had its Pinoy Embutido recipe; Malaybalay City with the Ginisang Labong na may Gulay; Vegetable medley for Valencia, Bukidnon; Kare-kareng gulay for the Maramag entry; and a vegetarian dumpling recipe from the Culinary Institute of Cagayan de Oro.

All entries used vegetables as its main ingredient, with no more than five ingredients, excluding seasoning and condiments.

At the end of the cook off, Jose M. Gipulao and Chairmaine Joy A. Prieto’s veggie roll recipe from Barangay Canitoan won the tilt.

Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Zenaida T. Tondares explained that the activity aims on developing delicious, nutritious, low cost, and easy to prepare menu.

It showcased every region’s traditional recipes and other innovative ways of preparing vegetables.

It will be compiled along with all winning regional entries into a recipe book that will be printed for distribution to the beneficiaries of the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) administered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Copies of it will also be distributed the local nutrition workers as an IEC material to aid more families on ways of improving their meals. (PIA 10)

OROCHAMBER holds techno confab

by (Lordilie Enjambre/OROCHAMBER-PIA-10)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 2 -- The Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OROCHAMBER), in cooperation with the Misamis Oriental Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), conducted a two-day Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) Workshop last April 26 to 27, this city.

The two-day workshop is designed to assist chamber member micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) affected by tropical storm Sendong to acquire some grant assistance from DOST, especially for the replacement of damaged equipment. More than P2 million grant can be extended to MSMEs.

“This partnership with DOST in Northern Mindanao is vital as 38 percent of our general membership were hit by Sendong, with estimated losses amounting to P158.5 million for MSMEs,” said Acting Vice President Efren T. Uy of the Trade and Commerce sector.

He added that this is a good opportunity for them to avail of the much needed assistance.

“TNA is one of the prerequisites of availing the grant facility through DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP),” said Miriam dela Plaza, DOST Camiguin Science and Technology Director.

She reiterated that the TNA Plan will serve as one of the basis of evaluating the project proposals of potential MSME grantees.

A follow up training on Project Proposal Preparation will be conducted on May 10 to 11. For related queries, please contact the OROCHAMBER Secretariat.

Gov't urges insurance providers to help promote microinsurance

by Apipa P. Bagumbaran


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- The government, through the Insurance Commission and the National Credit Council (NCC) of the Department of Finance, urged insurance providers to help in the promotion of microinsurance.

Insurance providers can design and deliver life and non-life microinsurance products and services tailor-fitted to the needs of the low income sector, said Joselito Almario, Deputy Executive Director of the NCC, in a press conference held last week here.

"With more microinsurance providers, the low-income sector would have greater access to affordable financial protection in cases of contingent events," he added.

Almario said the government has formulated policies and incentives to encourage more microinsurance providers. These included lower capitalization requirements and relaxed licensing requirements for microinsurance agents or brokers.

He said microinsurance agents or brokers shall not be required to take the regular licensure examination. Instead, they shall undergo a duly approved and prescribed microinsurance training program, and must pass the qualifying examination at the end of the training program.

Pushed by the government to supplement its anti-poverty programs in 2010, microinsurance provides small insurance coverage that meets the needs of the low-income sector for risk protection and relief against contingencies such as death, accidents, illness, and natural and man-made calamities.

The amount of premium per microinsurance policy can range from less than P1 to P20 per day. This means that the premium on a microinsurance product can be as low as P30 per month.

It has also minimal documentary requirements in the application and claims settlement process. Claims are settled within one to 10 working days upon receipt of complete documents by the provider.

Furthermore, microinsurance contracts are written clearly and in simple terms. The contract provisions clearly state the face amount, benefits, and terms of insurance coverage. They are easily understood by clients and bear the microinsurance logo.

Almario noted that as of December 2011, there are already 3.5 million microinsurance policy holders in the country. (APB/PIA-10)

Arson, robbery cases filed vs 5 rebels

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


POLICE authorities are set to file charges of destructive arson and robbery with intimidation against five armed men who torched three dump trucks in Balingasag town, Misamis Oriental last April 27.

Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Director Graciano Mejares said Tuesday they could not yet reveal the identities of the suspects as investigation continues.

Senior Inspector Edwin Ipan, station commander of Balingasag Police Office, said however that members of the New People’s Army (NPA) under the Iking Balacuit command have claimed responsibility for the incident.

The five armed men burned the three dump trucks around 7 p.m. of April 27 inside a bunkhouse in Barangay Mandangoa, Balingasag town. No one was reported injured in the incident.

“They did not take anything but the fact that they’re asking something from the owner with threats, it falls under robbery with intimidation,” Ipan said.

He said they have already coordinated with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to help in the investigation.

Ipan said charges against the suspects will be filed anytime this week.

Engr. Roberto Abogado, owner of the three dump trucks and husband of Balingasag Mayor Mariett Roa-Abogado, confirmed to police that a week before the incident, he received an “extortion letter.”

Police initially suspected communist rebels as the ones responsible for the attack.

Record number of players join Oro basketball clinics

by Catherine J. Teves


ATTENDANCE records have been broken within a threemonth span during the fi rst four months of 2012 by a series of free basketball clinics ran by the Misamis Oriental Provincial Government in Cagayan de Oro in partnership with national and international partners. Some 634 kids of all ages joined the first Alagang PBA free basketball clinic held April 19-20 at the Acsat Covered Court in Carmen, courtesy of barangay chairman RoLando A. Uy for participants from Carmen, Balulang and Kauswagan. Leading the clinic were PBA stars Gabe Norwood and Beau Belga of Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.

Previous to this, another free basketball clinic facilitated by the Misamis Oriental Provincial Government and the Misor Meteors coaching staff, in coordination with Jr. NBA Philippines, gathered 582 players of all ages from 34 Schools last Jan. 19 at Acsat Covered Court. The 2012 Jr. NBA Basketball and Coaches' Clinics were conducted by Jr. NBA coach and legend Marty Conlon with the assistance of hometown basketball hero and PBA legend Jojo Lastimosa of Alaska. It was the most number of players to attend a Jr. NBA Basketball Clinic in the Philippines to date. Some 267 par ticipants joined the next Alagang PBA/ MisOr Basketball clinic last April 23-24 for participants from Nazareth and Macasandig at the Nazareth gymnasium courtesy of barangay chair Jocelyn B. Rodriguez. The second clinic featured PBA Stars Arwind Santos and Danny Ildefonso of Petron Blaze Boosters. Alagang PBA is the country's top professional basketball league "Reach-Out Program" which ran a series of free basketball clinics this month in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan courtesy of Alagang PBA and the MisOr Meteors in cooperation with the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas. MOPO

Visayas-Mindanao alliance can restore political balance, says Adaza

by Catherine J. Teves


MANILA, April 29 (PNA) – Veteran lawyer and former Misamis Oriental Governor Homobono Adaza is bullish about possible formation of the Visayas-Mindanao tactical alliance that could end what he believes is Luzon’s alleged dominance of national politics, noting balancing such power structure will help promote more equitable development across the country. He said prospect for such alliance rose when a representative of the political party Visayan leaders are forming approached him this week about the possibility of their group joining forces with the Mindanao Action Party (MAP). ”That alliance can balance political power in our country,” he said on the side of Saturday Forum @ Annabel’s in Quezon City. Visayans and Mindanaoans collectively account for some 65 percent of the Philippines’ voting population and can generate the number of votes needed to make such possibility a reality, he noted. ”We need to restore the north-south power balance in our country,” he said. “This means if our president is from Luzon, the vice-president must hail from either the Visayas or Mindanao and vice-versa. So far, we’ve had nine presidents from Luzon and three vice-presidents from the Visayas. Mindanao still has nothing. Are Mindanaoans third-class citizens?” Adaza said he accommodated requests of several Mindanaoans to help convene MAP as they believe this party can truly represent southern Philippines in the national government. ”In government at present, there’s no effective voice for Mindanao,” he observed. He said MAP supporters want this party convened as they also believe it can truly help develop and transform Mindanao. ”MAP is the vehicle we’re organizing in reaction to what’s happening,” he said, referring to Mindanao’s power supply woes. Adaza laments that Mindanao continues reeling from such problem, poverty and other concerns of people there. He claimed that such concerns remain neglected and aren’t covered in governance platforms of political parties and coalitions in Manila, raising the need to convene MAP. ”Mindanao accounts for some 55 percent to 60 percent of Philippine gross domestic product so there’s no sense in being third-class citizens in a country where we’re participating actively,” he said. Adaza assured efforts to make MAP Mindanao’s dominant political party. MAP will field candidates for the May 2013 national and local polls, he said. ”We’re also looking forward to fielding our candidates for the 2016 presidential and vice-presidential race,” he added. He admitted considering to join next year’s electoral race. However, it’s still unclear which post he’ll aspire to win. MAP’s thrust is to secure free medical services as well as free elementary, secondary and tertiary education for impoverished to middle-income Mindanaoans, Adaza said. MAP will also work to provide subsidy for Mindanao’s farmers and talents like artists and scientists, he added. “Government can finance such services,” he noted. He also said that government must suspend its automatic debt servicing so funds for this purpose can be channeled instead to finance services for Mindanao. (PNA) scs/CJT/utb

PNoy cites efforts on disaster management

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, April 28 – President Aquino cites the undertakings of the government with the objective of mitigating the effects of disasters and in accurately predicting typhoons and other natural calamities in the country.

The President announced this during his visit in the city yesterday, April 27, at the Calanaan Relocation Site in Barangay Canito-an, this city, to turn-over some 700 newly completed shelter units to families left homeless by tropical storm Sendong.

He said that every Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) field office have been allotted around P500,000 standby funding for disaster response, which can be immediately used by the local government in facilitating faster disaster response.

"Alongside other agencies of the government, we are pushing for reforms and are strengthening our readiness against calamities, and to mitigate its effects. The Department of Science and Technology has launched Project NOAH or the Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards, a flood warning system wherein 600 automated rain gauges and 400 water level or river sensors will be placed in 80 major river systems and watersheds in the country," the President said in Tagalog in his speech.

President Aquino also called on the public to cooperate in this undertaking, especially to those people still living in these danger areas, adding that the people should not wait for the disaster to strike before acting on it, emphasizing that the country is a typhoon-frequented spot.

The President asked for cooperation from the citizens in protecting the gauges and sensors, and apprehending those who have stolen these, noting that some of these installed apparatus have been stolen and were sold as iron per kilo.

"With these equipment, we will be more accurate and timely of the forecasts and the monitoring of rains and floods in the whole country," the President said. (PIA 10)

Sendong victims receive starter kits and food packs

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, April 27 (PIA) -- The first batch of relocatees who will transfer to their new permanent houses today will take home a family kitchen set amounting to Php1,706.90.

The kit consist mostly of fork, spoon, cup, plates, ladle, can opener, knife, iron kettler, fying pan, water container, kerosene stove, matched, sugar, salt, and pepper.

President Aquino has officially turned over during his visit here today the award certificates of the newly built permanent shelters in Calaanan and Indahag relocation sites, intended to accommodate families displaced by Tropical storm Sendong.

Each household will likewise receive another set of family food packs worth Php928.00.

Meanwhile, 10 Self-Employment Assistance-Kaunlaran Association (SKAs) or SEAGroups (SKGs) in Calaanan and Indahag relocation sites will likewise get a total amount of Php975,000 livelihood assistance from the national government to help them engage in income generating opportunities. (PIA 10)

LGRC holds annual knowledge management review

by Kim Rigonan


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, April 26 (PIA) -- The Local Governance Resource Center 10 (LGRC 10) pooled in last week its Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Committee members to assess the “Knowledge Management Audit” carried out last December 8, 2011.

The LGRC is created to promote “knowledge management” that provides tangible processes of best processes in local governance, carefully selected and recommended for replication by other local government units, offices, and organizations.

Department of the Interior and Local Government-10 Assistant Regional Director Nilo P Castañares explained that the LGRC website will serve as a virtual and dynamic resource center.

It also aims to further synergy and excellence, especially, among local governments.

“All these points towards sharing of right information with the right people at the right time,” Castañares said. (PIA 10)

Lala celebrates Alimango Festival

by (Noel Saldajeno/BFAR/EOR/PIA 10)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, April 25 (PIA) -- An agri-aqua fair, showcasing the abundance of various agricultural and fishery produce, was held at the Town Plaza, Lala, Lanao del Norte recently in celebration of the 11th Alimango Festival and also to celebrate the 63rd Araw ng Lala. The fair was highlighted by a booth contest displaying their agricultural and fishery products composed of rice, fruits, vegetables, livestock, fish, shells, shrimps, and the crabs in abundant quantities from the nine coastal barangays. Spearheaded by Mr. Ronel Baroy, the Municipal Agriculture Service Officer, the Agri-Aqua Trade Fair is one of the most awaited events being featured during the town’s annual celebration as far as farmers and fisherfolk are concerned, as this is the event wherein the locally available produce are given the opportunity to be displayed and marketed other than joining in the best dressed booth exhibits, contest of the biggest and smallest agriculture and fishery products, games, among others. To commence the program of the fair, a crab rodeo contest was heId in front of the stage. It was participated in by the fisherfolk from the different barangays. The Municipality of Lala is known for its calamansi, yet the festival is attributed to the abundance of alimango (mudcrab) in the locality. This is a manifestation that the municipality is abundant in both agriculture and fishery products. BFAR-10 Regional Director Visa Tan-Dimerin, in her message as the guest speaker during the fair, requested the mayor, together with the Municipal Agriculturist and Fishery Technician, to include BFAR 10 in the celebration of Alimango Festival in booth exhibits and in the conduct of trainings in appreciation for recognizing fishery product such as alimango to be a part of the festival. “Many years back, the Municipality of Lala was also known for its sugpo, P. monodon because there are more or less 3,000 hectares of fishponds which are viable for prawn culture. But this will only thrive today if our farmers will refrain from using chemicals so that our water will not be contaminated and our prawn will be free from white spot syndrome virus,” she said. Director Dimerin also emphasized the need for Panguil Bay to be revived in its state of wellness through the initiative of Panguil Bay Development Program, which would also be the concern of Gov. Khalid Dimaporo. Dimerin also concealed that there is enough fund for the establishment of aquasilviculture and lying-in hatchery for gravid mudcrabs to release their eggs for more survival of crablets.

‘Shabu queen,’ son fall

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


A WIDOW tagged as the “shabu queen” of Misamis Oriental and her son were arrested by operatives of the Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG) in a buy-bust operation on Saturday afternoon in Purok 2, Poblacion, Salay town.

Theresa Baring, 56, alias “Red Butterfly” and her son Freddie S. Baring, 30, alias “Dodong Boang,” both residents of Purok 1, Poblacion, Salay, Misamis Oriental, were arrested after selling two sachets of suspected shabu (meth) worth P1,000 to an undercover RSOG operative who acted as poseur-buyer.

The operation was conducted at around 4:15 p.m. during a cockfight derby at the Salay Cockpit Coliseum in Purok 2, Poblacion.

Confiscated from the Barings were packs of suspected shabu worth P20,000, P500 marked money, and P2,000 believed to be proceeds of their illegal activity.

Police Inspector Patrick Jess P. Paguirigan, chief of RSOG, said Baring has long been hunted as a hardcore drug peddler in Misamis Oriental, particularly in Salay.

He said the suspect has also been included in the watch list of the Police Regional Office (PRO) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

During investigation, the suspects told police that they get their supply of illegal drugs from Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.

The items confiscated from the two suspects were submitted to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Crime Laboratory for examination.

Both suspects are now detained at the Misamis Oriental Provincial Jail (MOPJ) and are facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

“The relentless anti-drug campaign of RSOG is in line with the Anti-Criminality Program of our regional director, Chief Superintendent Jufel Adriatico,” Paguirigan said.

The RSOG is under the umbrella of the PNP’s Anti-Illegal Drug Special Operation Task Force.

Get, charge Tagoloan firm robbers, Misor police chief orders

by goldstardailynews.com


MISAMIS Oriental police director Graciano Mijares ordered the Tagoloan police to step up efforts to identify and arrest suspects in the robbery staged last Friday against a firm owned by Rep. Peter Unabia of the province's 1st District. Unabia's firm, a chicken dressing plant called Anak Ciano Inc., was robbed by six men in Barangay Mohon, Tagoloan in Misamis Oriental.

One of its guards, Richard Abao, 26, died while being treated at the Capitol University Medical City. He succumbed to a gunshot wound to the head. The robbers also wounded another guard, Espiridion Balaod. He suffered a gunshot wound to the stomach.

Senior Supt. Mijares said he gave Tagoloan police chief Ireneo Ramirez strict orders to get the robbers. "We will not give them a breathing space and we will get them soon," Mijares said. He said he wants suspects identified and charged with murder, frustrated murder and robbery this week based on the statements of witnesses. Mijares said the robbers, who could just be hiding in nearby areas, were apparently newly organized. He said another organized crime group specializing in robbery in the province was "neutralized" last year.

Mijares said the police were profiling the group that carried out the Friday robbery in Tagoloan. The police in the province stepped up security measures through checkpoints. In Cagayan de Oro, city police director Gerardo Rosales said they were helping the Misamis Oriental police in keeping an eye on suspects. Senior Supt. Rosales said he suspected the group that robbed Unabia's firm is the same one responsible for recent robbery cases in the city.





Guard dies in Misamis Oriental robbery

by (Annabelle L. Ricalde/Stephanie Berganio)


A SECURITY guard died while another is in critical condition after they were shot when six armed men robbed a dressing plant in Barangay Mohon, Tagoloan town in Misamis Oriental Friday dawn.

Richard Abao, 26, died around 9:30 a.m. Friday at the Capitol University Medical City (CUMC) in Cagayan de Oro from gunshot wounds in his head, while Espiridion Balaod, 60, is now under treatment due to gunshot wounds in his stomach.

Senior Police Officer 2 Ritchie Raiz of Tagoloan Police Station said four of the six suspected robbers armed with caliber .45 pistol, .38 and 9mm pistol pretended to be buyers of dressed chicken and entered AnakCiano Inc. (ACI) Dressing Plant.

Thinking that they were real customers, the plant’s security guards allowed the robbers to enter inside the dressing plant, Raiz said.

Raiz said the two suspects served as lookouts and stayed outside the plant.

Police Senior Inspector Ereneo Ramirez said the suspects entered through the plant’s two gates and pointed their guns at the two security guards.

Initial investigation showed that Abao and Balaod attempted to fight back but were instead shot by the suspects.

The suspects later proceeded to the cashier’s booth, and at gunpoint, carted away some P133,000 cash and a laptop from the cashier identified as Estrella Dayao.

Police said the suspects also took the service shotgun of one of the security guards and later fled on board two motorcycles.

Employees inside the dressing plant reportedly witnessed the incident but went into hiding out of fear.

Engr. Rey Baylin, operations manager of ACI Dressing Plant, said it was the first time that such incident happened inside the plant.

Baylin said the plant has a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera but is not functioning for more than a month now after it was affected by the renovation made inside the plant.

He said their clients, especially distributors of dressed chicken, would normally buy their products in the evening or early dawn.

He added that customers are allowed to enter inside the compound after being “interviewed” by the security guards assigned.

During the incident, Baylin said there were four security guards who were on duty -- two were assigned at the entrance gate while the other two were at the exit gate.

Ramirez said the robbery is carefully planned, which was reportedly carried out in about three minutes.

Due to the incident, he said they will make some “improvement in checking the identities” of their clients for security purposes.

The plant’s cashier was reportedly brought to the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory for the facial description of the suspects.

Ramirez said they now have a lead on the identities of the suspects but he refused to provide further details.

Oro, Misamis Oriental partnership in 2013?

by Michael Andrew W. Yu


IS TEAMWORK and partnership between Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental on June 30, 2013 imminent?

Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar S. Moreno said Thursday that hopefully, the people will see for the first time teamwork and partnership between Misamis Oriental and Cagayan de Oro City.

Names of incumbent Gingoog City Mayor Ruth Guingona as possible candidate for representative in the province’s first district and Vice Governor Norris C. Babiera as possible provincial governor in 2013 were also mentioned.

“Hopefully, on June 30, 2013, ‘Congressman’ Ruth Guingona will invite us in her inaugural address. Hopefully, we can pass a tone of leadership in the province to the new governor, Norris Babiera, and hopefully, we will see for the first time a true teamwork and true partnership between Misamis Oriental and Cagayan de Oro,” Moreno said during the Basic Orientation of Liberal Democracy (Bold) of Liberal Party on Thursday.

Earlier, rumors were circulating that Moreno is planning to run for mayor in Cagayan de Oro in next year’s elections though the governor refused to confirm this nor divulge his political plans, which he said he “will announce in the right time.”

For his part, Babiera said the Liberal Party has a process in choosing candidates to run for a government post.

He said the National Executive Council of the Liberal Party will decide who will run.

“Until the party says so, that would be the official stand of the party. If the party would tell me to run for governor, let the party decides,” Babiera said.

He said, however, that election is still far and the National Executive Council will still convene, which has jurisdiction over local officials, from the vice governor up to the higher posts.

“I will just concentrate on my job as vice governor of Misamis Oriental in a class of work called a ‘servant leadership’,” Babiera said.

During Thursday’s orientation, new members of Liberal Party took their oaths.

Gladys Sta. Rita, Liberal Party’s national headquarters director general, was one of the guest speakers in the event.

Several mayors and representatives in the province who attended the orientation came from Gingoog City, El Salvador City, Alubijid, Medina, Kinoguitan, Balingoan, Binuangan, Salay, Balingasag, Claveria, Laguindingan, Gitagum, Libertad, Naawan and Manticao, all in Misamis Oriental.

Babiera said Bold is a training seminar wherein new members and participants are required to undergo before taking oath to the party.

He said there are at least 138 participants in the seminar from Magsaysay to Lugait composed of several vice mayors, councilors and representatives from the agriculture, labor and health sectors and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK).

Babiera added that 16 mayors in Misamis Oriental are already members of Liberal Party.

During the training-seminar, Babiera said among the main topics discussed include liberal principles of liberalism, history of Liberal Party in the Philippines, social contract to the Filipino people by President Benigno Aquino III and the Party’s structure and ideology.

He said the event is also one way of strengthening the party.

A regional trainers’ training was also conducted, which was attended by 15 trainers from different provinces in Northern Mindanao.

The training will end today, April 20.

Medina Town Mayor Pacifico T. Pupos Jr., who took his oath early this year, said he attended the seminar along with his six municipal councilors.

He identified his councilors who will also take their oaths as Noli Pupos, Kimbot Odchigue, Dandan Balingit, Dulce Abejar, Roy Corrales and Ito Pelaez Pupos, a former ally of then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, said he and his councilors joined the Liberal Party because they see it can give progress to the nation, especially the municipality of Medina and the whole of Misamis Oriental.






Green Caravan sets off for Davao

by (Karen Dequina/PIA 10)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, April 19 (PIA) -- Cagayan de Oro City delegates joined the “Green Caravan” from Region 9 yesterday, heading towards Davao City for its culminating event, the Mindanaonon Environment Summit.

The twin event is initiated by EarthSoul Solutions, Inc., a non-government organization committed in advocating for the Reforestation of watersheds in Mindanao, particularly Mt. Kitanglad.

Ibno Turabin, EarthSoul Solutions Inc. Chairman of the Board said the activity aims on raising awareness in critical environment situations, especially here in Mindanao.

“This critical situation also takes human concern and action as a solution for the environmental problems,” he noted.

On top of its advocacies are the reforestation of watershed areas, protection of water resources, and promotion with active involvement of people.

BFAR identifies areas positive of red tide

by Jorie C. Valcorza


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, April 18 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has released results of a laboratory study conducted by the National Red Tide Task Force on areas in the country found positive of red tide toxins.

BFAR Region 10 Director Visa Tan-Dimerin noted that Misamis Occidental still turned positive of the paralytic shellfish poison, while the Taguines Lagoon in Camiguin on the other hand remained free from toxic red tides.

The latest BFAR shellfish bulletin no. 09, released last April 3, also declared Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur, Murcielagos Bay in Zamboanga del Norte, Masinloc Bay in Zambales, and Bataan coastal waters (Mariveles, Limay, Orion, Pilar, Balanga, Orani, Abucay, and Samal) in danger for paralytic shellfish poison.

Fishermen and consumers are strictly prohibited not to harvest, sell, buy, and eat all types of shellfish and Acetes sp. or "alamang" in areas showing high levels of toxins and going beyond the regulatory limit.

However, fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs are safe to eat, provided it is fresh and washed thoroughly, with gleaned off gills and intestines before cooking. (PIA 10)

3 suspected drug peddlers in Misamis Oriental seized

by Annabelle L. Ricalde


OPERATIVES of the Misamis Oriental Provincial Special Enforcement Team of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) arrested three suspected drug peddlers in a buy-bust operation Monday in Barra, Opol, Misamis Oriental.

PDEA Regional Director Roberto S. Opeña identified the suspects as Al Shierav S. Ahmad, 23, a resident of Villa Candida Subdivision in Barangay Bulua but a native of Satubig, Zamboanga del Sur; Romel S. Colango, 32, of Barra, Opol, Misamis Oriental and a native of Ozamiz City; and Garry M. Ayuban, 24, a resident of Barangay Bulua.

Bought from Ahmad by a PDEA undercover agent was a small plastic sachet of suspected shabu (methamphetamine) worth P500.

Recovered from his possession was one sachet of shabu, a caliber .45 pistol with serial number 845317 with four live ammunitions, a caliber .38 with two live ammunitions, two magazines and drug paraphernalia.

Opeña said the suspects were arrested inside the house of Ahmad’s parents-in-law around 6:30 p.m.

During investigation, Ahmad denied the accusation against him, saying he was only a “runner” but not a peddler.

He also denied that he threatened to kill PDEA agents during his arrest.

“I admit they were able to confiscate firearms from me but the truth is, those were just pawned to me. It is also not true that I own the shabu,” Ahmad told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro.

But Opeña stressed they were already expecting the suspects to deny the accusation.

“Because it is already normal for every suspect to deny the crime as much as he can,” he said.

The seized drug and non-drug evidences were brought to the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory for qualitative and quantitative examination while the suspects are now temporarily detained at the PDEA detention cell.

Charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 is now being readied against the suspects.






3-Day Youth Leadership Seminar In Misamis Oriental Town

by MIKE U. CRISMUNDO


BALINGOAN, Misamis Oriental - The 4th Civil-Military Operations “Kasaligan” Battalion of the Army’s Northeastern and Northern Mindanao 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division (4th ID) in partnership with the Sangguniang Kabataan of Balingoan opened the three-day live-in Youth Leadership Seminar (YLS) on Saturday at Balingoan Central School, Balingoan town, this province.

The objective of this activity is to provide an avenue for our youth to enhance their leadership, technical and interpersonal skills through a series of lectures, group dynamics, group sharing, team building activities and presentations designed to make them more responsible, productive members and well-informed members of our society.

Guest lecturers and subject-matter-experts coming from the local government units and line government agencies, academe and NGO’s shall be invited to speak before the participants to inform the youth about the different programs of the government, challenges and expectations that the society poses to their generation and the perils that they can be exposed to if not properly advised or guided accordingly.

In this seminar the programs of the government and opportunities for the youth will be presented to the participants in order to encourage them to become more productive and proactive members of the society.

Bringing YLS to the municipal level is like bringing the government closer to the people especially to the youth. This will also give our youth the chance to reflect on their vital role in our society as future leaders of our country.

This Municipal Youth Leadership Seminar (MYLS) is participated by 60 youth coming from the different barangays of Balingoan town.

Balingoan is the first municipality to replicate this YLS in the whole area of the Division.

This youth organization will be the bridge of the members towards employment opportunities for out-of-school youth and educational scholarship for in-school youth. It will be done through the partnership that will be entered with different companies and organizations whose purpose of existence and corporate social responsibility is to provide employment and scholarship.

Once this YLS is realized as planned it will be a big help for our youth since it will not only give them chance to practice their leadership skill but it is also another good diversion of their energy which has always been the target of recruitment by insurgents.

Maj. Gen. Victor A. Felix, commanding general of the 4th ID said, “With the year 2020 projection of 20 million youth population in the country, it is significant that we prepare them this early to become responsible, productive and well-informed members of our society. It will be a good contribution to the improvement of our society making the generation who will lead the country ready and able for the responsibility at hand. To the participants, be active and discerning, maximize your learning experience, and be empowered.”

On the other hand, Maj. Eugenio Julio C Osias IV, 4th ID spokesperson also said, “The youth of today is the future of our country, it is best that they will be awaken and be oriented on the importance of their role in our society. This activity will prepare the youth to become good leaders and productive members of our society.”

4ID Youth Leadership Seminar first in Balingoan town

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, April 14 –- The 4th Civil-Military Operations “Kasaligan” Battalion, 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division in partnership with the Sangguniang Kabataan of Balingoan opened the three-day live-in Youth Leadership Seminar (YLS) at Balingoan Central School, Misamis Oriental at 8:00 a.m. today.

The purpose of this activity is to provide an avenue for our youth to enhance their leadership, technical and interpersonal skills through a series of lectures, group dynamics, group sharing, team building activities and presentations designed to make them more responsible, productive members and well-informed members of our society.

Guest lecturers and subject-matter-experts coming from the local government units and line government agencies, academe and NGOs shall be invited to speak before the participants to inform the youth about the different programs of the government, challenges and expectations that the society poses to their generation and the perils that they can be exposed to if not properly advised or guided accordingly.

In this seminar the programs of the government and opportunities for the youth will be presented to the participants in order to encourage them to become more productive and proactive members of the society. Bringing YLS to the municipal level is like bringing the government closer to the people especially to the youth. This will also give our youth the chance to reflect on their vital role in our society as future leaders of our country.

This Municipal Youth Leadership Seminar is participated in by 60 youth coming from the different barangays of Balingoan, Misamis Oriental.

Balingoan is the first municipality to replicate this YLS in the whole area of the Division.

This youth organization will be the bridge of the members towards employment opportunities for out-of-school youth and educational scholarship for in-school youth. It will be done through the partnership that will be entered with different companies and organizations whose purpose of existence and corporate social responsibility is to provide employment and scholarship.

Once this YLS is realized as planned it will be a big help for our youth since it will not only give them chance to practice their leadership skill but it is also another good diversion of their energy which has always been the target of recruitment by insurgents.

Mgen. Victor A. Felix AFP, Commander, 4ID said with the year 2020 projection of 20 million youth population in the country, it is significant that we prepare them this early to become responsible, productive and well-informed members of our society. It will be a good contribution to the improvement of our society making the generation who will lead the country ready and able for the responsibility at hand. To the participants, be active and discerning, maximize your learning experience, and be empowered. (Major Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV/4ID PA/PIA 10)

Entrepreneurs’ workshop slated in CdO

by Metavell T. Suyao/Noralee Denise Lluch/PIA 10


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, April 13 (PIA) -- Bob Bare, author, expert business builder, and serial entrepreneur will be the featured on a two-day workshop for entrepreneurs set today.

The workshop focuses on the entrepreneurs’ roadmap to success, and will also feature Billy Odell Stunkard, the chief executive officer of SEGR Enterprises based in Dallas, Texas, which comprises at least four corporations.

As a public speaker, Stunkard is known to be expert in business-building topics.

The said event is held at the Grand Caprice Convention Center with a registration fee of P5,000.

Cosme Pacana of the M & A Resource Training Center and organizer of the event said that the fee include course design manual, training kit, work sheets, certificate, meals and snacks, facilitation and management fee.

Town gears up security for beachgoers

by Nicole J. Managbanag


THE local government of Opol in Misamis Oriental, where beaches abound, is gearing up its safety measures for beachgoers.

To assure the public’s safety, Opol Mayor Dexter B. Yasay ordered beach owners to have their own lifeguards, which is part of the requirement for them to operate.

He said a rescue team and police personnel will be deployed during weekends where thousands of people are expected to gather at the beach.

During night time, Yasay said barangay police personnel will also be deployed, while police outposts will be manned for maximum security.

“However, no matter how we provide precautionary measures to the public, there are still evil thinkers who are out to ruin the fun,” he said.

With this, Yasay is appealing to the public to be on the lookout and not just depend on the assigned personnel to prevent accidents and petty crimes.






Exec assures no telephone rate hike

by Michael Andrew W. Yu


AN OFFICIAL of Misamis Oriental Telephone System (Misortel) assured Wednesday that there will be no increase in telephone rates once the company is rehabilitated.

Misortel Manager Rene D. Guingguing said no increase will be imposed on basic and long-distance bills once rehabilitation is completed.

“The rates will be as-is. No changes will be made once new facilities will be placed,” Guingguing said.

Currently, Misortel subscribers are paying P554 for commercial and P246 for residential, which comes with value-added tax.

Aside from telephone lines, Misortel also offers DSL Internet connection for P995 per month with a speed of 1mbps and P1,990 for 2mbps.

On Tuesday, the Provincial Board passed a resolution allowing Governor Oscar S. Moreno to enter into a loan agreement with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) amounting to P40 million.

The loan will reportedly be used for the capital/expenditure, rehabilitation and repair of Misortel.

Guingguing said they are happy and thankful on the Provincial Board’s move.

“Subscribers will surely experience smooth operation once the new technology, equipment and facility will be installed, unlike before where there are problems like no dial tone, low signal and difficulty in calling,” he said.

At present, Misortel is operating from the municipality of Alubijid up to Jasaan town, including Cagayan de Oro City, with 9,400 subscribers.

Guingguing said once the rehabilitation is finished, the telephone lines will expand up to Laguindingan town where the international airport is located.

BSP-Misamis Oriental council holds annual council meeting

by Glenn B. Añora


AN hour of safe ride to Balingasag, Misamis Oriental is just enough for us to witness this year’s Annual Council Meeting of Misamis Oriental. Held at the new and super imposing structure at the heart of town – The People’s Palace. A stone throw away is the subdivided sea area of fish pens that houses the now famous salt water Bangus (Milk Fish) of Balingasag. The park across the palace is a perfect place to go lazy that Saturday morning, the gentle breeze from the sea adds up to the spice of a morning full of human drama and surprises. The Colors made her entry that signal the colorful annual meeting which was called to order by the Council Chairman, Hon. Mayor Alexis S. Quina. The recitation of the Scout Ideals signifies the council’s resolve to go on with the business on hand. Mayor Quina rendered his annual chairman’s report and immediately followed by the presentation of the treasurer’s report. Election for the four new seats of the local executive board ensued. To CSE Rogelio S. Roferos, FSE Jaye Agbu and the hard working men and women of BSP Misamis Oriental Council congratulations and good luck to the year ahead. Good morning!

CdeO perks up Calaanan relocation Phase 2

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 9 -- More areas in Calaanan relocation site will be developed to accomodate families displaced by tropical storm Sendong.

The city council here enacted an ordinance on March 22 authorizing Mayor Vicente Emano to enter into and sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to develop more areas at the Calaanan relocation site to accommodate families displaced by tropical storm Sendong and promptly transfer the survivors to permanent relocation sites.

The MOA shall involve the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), National Housing Authority (NHA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), SM Prime Holdings, Inc. and the Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation, Inc., for the development of 5.9026 hectares of land at Phase 2 of the Cagayan de Oro Resettlement Project.

The construction of housing units shall be undertaken by the GK Foundation. The foundation shall likewise organize a GK community association in the area to serve as instrument of change, renewal and transformation of individual families and the whole community.

SM Inc., on the other hand, shall fund the construction of 200 housing units in the amount of P22 million and formulate guidelines and procedures on fund transfer and management in undertaking the housing construction with GK.

The city shall provide funds to cover the costs for site preparation, the installation of water and power facilities, survey and titling, the provision of community facilities, transport terminal and police substation and any amount in excess of the funds to be provided by the parties for the development of the project.

The HUDCC shall coordinate and assist in project monitoring and implementation, ensure integration of resources and final completion of the project and prepare regular reports as may be required.

NHA shall provide technical assistance to the city in the planning, construction, provision of community facilities, among others.

The DSWD shall undertake the social preparation, community organizing and capability building programs for the intended beneficiaries. With the assistance of the NHA, Oro Habitat and GK Foundation, set and establish standards and rules for qualifying beneficiaries and determine the compliance with standards and rules.

DPWH shall provide funds and implement the construction or road networks within and leading to the resettlement site, drainage and sewerage works in the project site.

While, the DENR shall issue all necessary environmental clearance to include Geohazard Investigation Report, environmental clearance certificate (ECC) and facilitate the approval of the subdivision plan of the project. (PIA 10)

Is it really more fun in the Philippines?

by Babe Romualdez


For those of us who have had the opportunity to go around the Philippines and traveled to many parts of the world — we can all agree: it can really be more fun in the Philippines with its beautiful beaches, great dive sites and breathtaking countryside — with most Filipinos described as one of the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world according to a recent survey by an international flight comparison site.

In fact, those of us who have been to Palawan, Boracay, Donsol, Davao, Camiguin, Bohol, Sagada and even the little-known places across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao have been awed by the natural wonders that this country has been blessed with. But why is it that the Philippines continues to be a “laggard” in terms of attracting tourists, with the less than four million foreign visitors recorded last year — way below the double-digits averaged by our neighbors like Thailand (17 million visitors) or Malaysia (25 million visitors)?

The most obvious reason is the lack of infrastructure support such as good roads and bridges (compounded by the dearth of convenient stops with clean toilets for the duration of the trip) and little if no helpful brochures available that would tell visitors how to get to a destination. But a major part of the problem would be the inadequacies presented by our airports. Based on world tourism information, the Philippines has only 10 airports categorized as “international” with NAIA being the primary gateway, while the rest are domestic airports mostly graded as “feeders.”

Sadly, NAIA has achieved a certain degree of infamy as the “worst” airport in the world. The good news is that DOTC Secretary Mar Roxas is doing something about it. But in the meantime, locals and foreigners alike complain about sluggish procedures with time-consuming security checks, which aggravate the overcrowding with PAL domestic and international passengers practically lumped together in the same area. All of these make it very inconvenient for visitors especially for first timers who would likely only remember the unpleasantness.

The worst part is — the Category 2 rating by the US FAA has not been lifted. An IATA-travel agency owner observed that a major victim of the downgrade has been PAL because it cannot utilize its newly-acquired Boeing 777 aircraft that were intended for additional flights to the US. Curiously enough, safety does not appear to be an issue because US carriers continue to fly into the Philippines, and it’s very likely that United and Delta Airlines will jump in to fill the gap should PAL decide to cut off flights to the US, the travel agent said. Ironically, other local carriers (like Cebu Pacific) would not be allowed to take up the slack precisely because the US authorities will just simply invoke the Category 2 rating — reinforcing suspicions that the downgrade has more to do with international politics, rather than safety concerns. Unfortunately, Europe has followed suit, declaring in 2010 that Philippine carriers will not be allowed entry to European airports due to “safety concerns.”

The entry of SMC equities into PAL is a welcome development. The infusion of new management with fresh ideas will most likely improve PAL. For one, the plan of SMC president Ramon S. Ang to build a new airport in Bulacan as reported by fellow STAR columnist Boo Chanco can bring in more tourists, not to mention that it can help decongest NAIA whose navigational radars and other equipment need a lot of upgrading. The proximity of squatter areas near NAIA is a complication that a new airport in Bulacan will most likely not have, and we can safely assume that state-of-the-art facilities and equipment with expansive runways will provide smoother takeoff and landing even at night.

It really makes more sense to have an alternative gateway that is close to Metro Manila, and since it would take years before Ramon Ang’s vision will materialize, perhaps government can complement this by constructing a high-speed rail connection to facilitate travel to the airport and make life more convenient and bearable for passengers whether they’re flying in or out of the country. Meantime, perhaps government should also seriously consider suggestions to eventually turn NAIA into a major domestic hub and make Clark (Clark International Airport or CIA) our primary international airport with the construction of an additional parallel runway and a terminal that can accommodate as much as 20 million passengers a year.

Another welcome development is that an international airport in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental is expected to be operational early next year (after almost 20 years of delay) and will serve Northern Mindanao, in particular the areas of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City. The Laguindingan International Airport is reportedly state-of-the-art (complete with a wastewater treatment facility) and can handle A300 and B737 aircraft. The terminal will handle an initial capacity of 800,000 passengers and expected to increase to 1.6 million by 2020 after expansion is completed — thereby boosting the economy in the region.

Other international airports in Daraga, Albay and Panglao in Bohol will be upgraded while government mulls turning Poro Point Airport in La Union into a world class international gateway. Additionally, four other hubs including one in Northern Cagayan are being planned — all of which could help decongest NAIA/Metro Manila.

Improving airports and other infrastructure with safety and security as a primary objective is a key factor in boosting tourism. But we really still have a long way to go — to truly have “more fun in the Philippines” not only for foreigners but also for Filipinos as well. Let’s hope the current momentum continues.

Oil spills contained in Zamboanga City, Misamis

by Evelyn Macairan, Alexis Romero


MANILA, Philippines - The Maritime Environment Protection Unit of the Philippine Coast Guard was extra busy this week containing two oil spills in Zamboanga City and Misamis Oriental.

In a statement, PCG spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Algier Ricafrente said bunker oil leaked from a pipeline while motor tanker M/T Mactan Island was transferring the fuel to the Western Mindanao Power Corp. in Zamboanga City

The spilt oil was estimated to be about 50 to 60 liters. The damaged pipeline was eventually repaired and the oil leak was contained and cleaned up.

Another oil spill was reported in the vicinity of the Petron depot in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.

Gasoline reportedly spread to a mangrove area adjacent to the depot, but the Coast Guard and Petron were able to prevent it from reaching the shoreline.

National Nutrition Council accepting entries for recipe contest

by (PIA 10)


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, April 4 (PIA) -- To showcase every region’s traditional recipes, as well as, other innovative ways of preparing vegetables, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) will hold a “Regional Recipe Development Contest,” as part of this year’s nutrition month celebration.

Winning entries will be compiled into a recipe book that will be printed for distribution to all Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

The recipe book will also be distributed to all local nutrition workers, to be utilized as a material in to aid in teaching more families on ways of improving their meals.

Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator, Zenaida T. Tondares is enjoining all cooking enthusiasts, chefs, student chefs, school based food technology teachers and all interested individuals or groups to join the recipe challenge and submit all entries before April 18.

Entry forms and contest mechanics can be secured at the regional NNC office.

Tondares noted that all entries must use vegetables as main ingredients with no more than five ingredients, excluding seasonings and condiments. It should be original, low-cost, easy to prepare, nutritious and made of indigenous ingredients.

Qualified recipe entries will be notified on/or before April 28, and the final cook off of the chosen recipes will be on May 2 here in Cagayan de Oro City.

First regional winning entry will be awarded P10,000, second and third placers will take home P8,000 and P6,000, respectively, and three others will win the P2,000 consolation prizes.

Cops arrest man tied to molestation attempt

by EDWIN IYO Correspondent


MEDINA, Misamis Oriental-- Police arrested a man for allegedly attempting to molest a three-year-old girl here last weekend. The Medina police identified the suspect as Jerson Milay, 23, a bachelor from Lapak, Cabug in Medina. Police immediately arrested Milay after a woman informed the police that her daughter nearly became a victim of molestation at the Medina wharf on Saturday.

SPO2 Carlito Templado said the woman and the alleged wouldbe victim were residents Barangay San Jose here. The mother is a store vendor at the town port. The mother told the police that she actually saw the suspect undressing her daughter and that the suspect pulled down his short pants. Templado said the suspect ran away when he saw the mother of the victim coming. Police believe that that the suspect has had a drink too many at that time.

Following his arrest, Milay admitted that he was had downed a small bottle of Tanduay but denied that he attempted to molest the girl. "Nag-inom ko uban ako barkada ug ako lang gi kugoskugos ug gidula ang bata," he said. Charges are being prepared against the suspect at presstime.

Electronics firms sink in $2.47 B in investments

by Abe P. Belena


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- The electronics industry in the Philippines sank in $2.47 billion in investments last year despite a dive of 25.63 percent in export sales.

This was reported by Ernesto Santiago, president of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (SEIPI) during the exporters' forum held at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Tuesday, March 27.

Santiago said the investment was the biggest plowed in by industry players to the country in its entire history.

Players in the industry invested an average of $1 billion a year in the past.

Overall, a total of 178 companies put in stakes, 31 of them new entrants that included Canon, Brother, Murata, and First Philec Nexolon. Between the new entrants, they invested $721 million representing 30 percent of the total.

Among the companies that have been operating in the Philippines for quite some time, 147 of them expanded their operations or started new projects. Their combined investments were pegged at $1.7 billion representing 70 percent of the total.

SEIPI members that made new investments included Amkor Annam, Texas Instruments, APC, Ibiden, Nidec, Sunpower, Analog, and Samsung.

Santiago estimated that 35,358 new direct jobs will be created by the new investments in the largest segment of the country's export industry.

"There were no retrenchments last year despite the decline in sales. In fact, we are now in a hiring mode," Santiago disclosed, reflecting the industry's bullishness in its long-term viability.

Citing historical data, Santiago said that since 1992 when the industry started, members only resorted to retrenching their workers twice, first during the global trade slowdown in 2001 and again during the global financial crisis of 2008.

The industry, he explained, has followed a cyclical pattern although on an upward trajectory.

Undeterred by the drastic retreat in exports last year, he said the electronics and semiconductors are seen by industry leaders to "snap back" to its usual growth path this year, projecting between 10 and 15 percent in growth by the end of the current year.

The return to the growth path will be fueled by the fact that the local electronics industry has very low inventory at the start of the year and it is time to replenish.

The growth will also come from applications that are expected to drive demand. These include automotive electronics, smart phones, and mobile infotainment, the demand of which is on the upswing due to attractive pricing.

The next big drive in computing will be on interconnectivity, no longer power and speed, he concluded. (PNF/APB-PIA 10)

Northern Mindanao vows to save the environment

by Elaine O. Ratunil


CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Apr. 1 (PIA) -- Close to 300 representatives from the different sectors of the society expressed their commitment to save the environment during a Seminar on Electricity Conservation in Households and Schools on Saturday, held at the Pilgrim Christian College, this city.

In his message, Department of Energy (DOE) Mindanao Field Office Director Manuel L. Llaneza said the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program of DOE aims to make energy efficiency and conservation a way of life of every Filipino.

Llaneza further said the program specifically intends to cushion the impact of increases in prices of petroleum products and electricity through the implementation of energy efficiency and conservation measures; promote cost avoidance/savings on fuel and electricity without sacrificing productivity; secure firm savings commitments from identified sector groups; and help protect the environment.

He said in line with the DOE’s mission to attain energy access for more and address emissions harmful to the environment, the Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign of the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program (NEECP) aggressively promotes Energy Efficiency and Conservation.

The DOE partners with the World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to disseminate adequate information on ways and measure to conserve energy and the planet from environment degradation, said Llaneza.

Meanwhile, he urged the participants of the seminar to join Earth Hour 2012 by switching off lights for one (1) hour on March 31 at 8:30 p.m. to take a stand on global warming and in taking action to ensure a sustainable future.

Earth hour, which started in Sydney, Australia in 2007, is a global campaign to showcase what can and is being done all over the world to combat climate change, said Llaneza. (EOR,PIA 10)


Misamis Oriental Archived News

The older news reports are kept here

Retrieved from "https://zamboanga.com/z/index.php?title=Misamis_Oriental_News&oldid=344291"