Palawan News February 2016

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Palawan - Archived News
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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.

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Undergroud River in Palawan
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Underground river in Pureto Princesa, Palawan
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Baracuda Lake, Coron, Palawan

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.
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U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie A. Kenney and USAID/Philippines Environment Office Chief Daniel Moore witness the safe and sustainable collection of ornamental fish by certified Marine Aquarium Council collectors in Palawan

MGB-MIMAROPA receives “Gawad Kalasag” Award

(PalawanNews)

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau-MIMAROPA Regional Office was one of the recipients of the Gawad Kalasag Special Recognition given by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) of MIMAROPA.

Regional Director Roland De Jesus received the plaque of recognition during the regional awarding ceremony on January 15, 2016, held at the Great Eastern Hotel, Quezon City.

Present during the occasion are Provincial Governors Alfonso Umali, Jr. and Carmencita Reyes of Oriental Mindoro and Marinduque, respectively, representatives of various member agencies of RDRRMC, and OCD-MIMAROPA Regional Director and RDRRMC-MIMAROPA Chairperson Eugene Cabrera.

In his acceptance message RD De Jesus thanked the Committee for its recognition and appreciation of the MGB IV-B’s geohazard mapping activities, vulnerability and risk assessments, and IEC campaigns conducted in the municipalities of the region.

The Gawad Kalasag Awards is an annual recognition of individuals, NGOs, private sectors, and government organizations in their exemplary contributions and initiatives in strengthening the capabilities and resilience of the country in terms of disaster risk reduction and management.

“Gawad Kalasag” stands for Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan.

Palawan underground river remains protected

By Jess Diaz (The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines – Five tourist destinations in Palawan, including Puerto Princesa City’s famous underground river, remain protected areas and therefore closed to commercial exploitation.

They remain so because Congress has failed to pass the proposed E-NIPAS (Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas Systems) Law.

The version of the bill pending in the House proposes to remove the five tourist spots from the list of protected areas under Republic Act No. 7586, or the NIPAS Act of 1992.

Proposed to be delisted, aside from the Puerto Princesa City Subterranean River National Park, are the El Nido Managed Resource Protected Area, Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape, Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape and Rasa Island Wildlife Sanctuary.

Palawan Rep. Douglas Hagedorn said the subterranean river and El Nido are among the popular tourist destinations in Palawan.

He said he could not understand why Las Piñas Rep. Mark Villar wanted the five tourist destinations removed from the list of areas enjoying protection under the law against environment degradation resulting from commercial exploitation. Headlines ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1

He said his timely intervention during the period of amendments on the E-NIPAS bill prevented the delisting of the five.

Hagedorn pointed out that far from protecting the five tourist spots in Palawan, the bill would open them to environmental destruction by removing them from the coverage of the NIPAS Law of 1992.

He said certain officials in the province, together with their businessmen-partners and congressmen-friends, are pushing for the delisting.

“They are particularly interested in Mt. Mantalingahan, which is believed to have lots of mineral deposits,” he said.

He recalled that in October, he discovered that the committee on natural resources and environment had retained El Nido, the subterranean river and the three other tourist destinations in the list of protected areas.

However, he said the committee secretariat, which is composed of House personnel, submitted a different report, which delisted the five protected areas.

“This shows you how influential are those pushing for this measure,” he said.

The E-NIPAS bill seeks to include more than 90 areas in Metro Manila and the provinces in the coverage of the 1992 law.

These areas include the Las Piñas swamps, which an influential businessman wants reclaimed and transformed into an airport.

Palawan, DOH-Mimaropa intensify activities for malaria elimination

  • Source:news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/521456472604/palawan-doh-mimaropa-intensify-activities-for-malaria-elimination
  • Saturday, February 27, 2016
By Lyndon Plantilla (LP/PIA4B)

QUEZON CITY, Feb 27 (PIA) --- The Department of Health – Mimaropa (DOH-Mimaropa) and the Province of Palawan will use a combination of spraying and mosquito net protection to eliminate malaria in the province.

Regional Director Eduardo C. Janairo said a three cycle indoor residual spraying operation in areas with high incidence of malaria will be implemented to ensure the efficacy of the insecticide.

“In this way, the effective and immediate elimination of malaria causing mosquitoes in the target municipalities can be assured and reduction of malaria cases in the province can be achieved,” Janairo said.

“We also provided 155,725 long lasting insecticide treated nets to 302,310 families for them to place in their homes for added protection against malaria mosquitoes. This year we have allocated 241,800 of these treated nets for distribution in all areas of concern in Palawan,”said Janairo.

Director Janairo also reported that the trainings for Barangay Health Workers in coordination with the local government units are continuing.

Today, Palawan has 118 Barangay Microscopists after completing the Refresher Course on Malaria Microscopy and 108 Barangay Health Workers trained on Rapid Diagnostic Test.

Last year, the third Palawan Research Institute for Malaria Mosquito-borne diseases (PRIMM), located at the PEO Compound in Barangay Bancao – Bancao in Puerto Princesa City, was established to serve as a hub for all malaria-diagnostic and entomological trainings, quality assurance and research and development for regions IV-B, V, VI, and VII.

PRIMM is equipped with malaria microscopic training laboratory and slide bank, entomology training laboratory and insectary.

The Center was established through the initiative of the Movement Against Malaria, a joint project of Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc., Regional Health Office – MIMAROPA and the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine with financial support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Malampaya Joint Venture Partners of Shell Philippines Exploration, Chevron Malampaya LLC and the Philippine National Oil Company.

The other similar centers are in located in Tuguegarao and Davao.

From January 1- February 19, the DOH-Mimaropa Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) reported 13 new cases. Among the municipalities with the highest incidence of malaria cases were Taytay (six malaria cases), Bataraza (three cases), San Vicente (two cases), and Sofronio Espanola and Puerto Princesa City with one case each.

In 2015, a total of 7,437 malaria cases were recorded with 13 deaths: these figures are higher than those recorded in 2014 (4,206 cases with 5 deaths).

Among the municipalities with malaria cases in 2015 are Rizal (1,725 cases); Bataraza (736); Brooke’s Point (639); Quezon (247); Puerto Princesa City (241); Sofronio Espanola (232); Balabac (137); Aborlan (83); Narra (49); Roxas (5); San Vicente (3); and Taytay (1).

El Nido resort gets makeover

(The Standard)

Tropical foliage against whitewashed cottages in whites, greys and touches of black now make up the signature look of Lagen Island of El Nido Resorts in Palawan.

The new look has been luring more tourists to the island, known as an eco-sanctuary framed by dramatic limestone cliffs – the backdrop for many an island-inspired wedding.

The contemporary look with Filipino touches in Lagen’s villas and rooms were conceptualized by Architect Conrad Onglao.

The villas were built with high ceilings, wide open spaces, balconies under sloping roofs with broad overhangs. Some villas that are as large as 70 sqm now accommodate four people. These include bathrooms with twin vanities and a generous tub.

Rooms open up with louvered windows so guests can check out the landscape, and watch various species in their natural habitat.

Vintage details abound—ceramic tiles with bold Mediterranean patterns popularized a century ago by tile producer Don Jose Machuca; woven-backed chairs and bed frames inspired by the solihiya; raffia walls; birthing chairs or the butaka and tribal crafts. Old botanical prints, researched by Augustinian friar, Manuel Blanco, add history. Sheer drapery and eyelet cotton bed curtains amplify the lightness and airiness of the room with a timeless coastal charm.

At night, Onglao set up a lighting design that provides hefty doses of drama.

Lights highlight Lagen Island’s famous rock formation, while vintage hurricane lamps draw attention to the breakwaters.

Free college education requested for alternative learning system grads in Palawan

By Celeste Anna R. Formoso [(PNA), LAP/CARF/EDS]

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY (PNA) -- The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Palawan approved Tuesday a resolution that requests Governor Jose Alvarez to help provide free college education for the graduates of the Alternative Learning System (ALS).

“We need to help the poor Palaweño youth, who graduated from the ALS, so they can get college education and have bright futures,” said Board Member Winston Arzaga, who authored the measure.

Arzaga said the ALS graduates can be accommodated under Programang Pang-Edukasyon para sa mga Palaweño (PPP), which is implemented by the IHELP development agenda of Alvarez’s administration.

Education is very important, he said, for the ALS graduates to be able to help their families, and to have good prospects in the future – to become productive individuals.

With the PPP, their college education can be subsidized since its purpose is providing scholarships in public colleges and universities in the province.

“Since the ALS was designed to help poor Filipinos in their education, I pray that its graduates will be included in the roster of provincial government scholars. These kids have been away from school for so long, and giving them free college education under the PPP is like a second chance,” he said.

With the passing of the resolution, Arzaga hopes the PPP to respond positively.

PPP eyed in operation of Sandoval Airport in Taytay, Palawan

By Celeste Anna R. Formoso [(PNA), JMC/CARF/EDS]

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Feb. 24 (PNA) -- A provincial board member in Palawan has filed a resolution at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan seeking the help of public-private partnership (PPP) in the operation of the Sandoval Airport in the northern town of Taytay.

The resolution, filed Tuesday morning by Sangguniang Panlalawigan Board Member Winston Arzaga, requests Palawan Gov. Jose Alvarez “to open the Sandoval Airport in Taytay for public-private partnership,” and to accept proposals.

Arzaga explained that the development of the Sandoval Airport will be sped up if the private sector leads its operation.

“We can speed up the development of the airport if its operation will be led by the private sector, particularly those that have technical expertise,” he said.

"When the operation of the facility has been opened to commercial flights, the tourism industry in northern Palawan will experience a huge change, as well as the economic activities in the area," he added.

Sandoval Airport is strategically located in Barangay Sandoval in an area between Taytay and El Nido.

Arzaga said private entities that are interested might send their proposals to the Office of the Governor to become eventual basis in implementation.

Taytay is a first class municipality in the province of Palawan. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 70,837 people.

Puerto Princesa Chamber of Commerce to launch ‘Baracalan sa Banua’ night market

(PNA), LAP/CARF/RMA/EDS

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Feb. 23 (PNA) -- The Puerto Princesa Chamber of Commerce (PPCC) will be launching the first-ever “Baracalan sa Banua” night market in this city in a bid to invite all businesses to introduce and promote new local products and services.

The PPCC is an organization of Puerto Princesa-based businessmen whose objective is to advocate the patronization of locally-produced products and educate future small-medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) on business start-ups, said Evelyn Pua, one of the board of directors.

”Baracalan” is a Cuyunon term that means “purchasing” or “buying” in English. It will be launched on February 27 in front of the City Coliseum in Barangay San Pedro.

Pua said the night market will happen in the area every Saturday. It will invite even entrepreneurs from municipalities in southern and northern Palawan.

Through the program, she explained that products from the city and other areas in Palawan can be introduced to other entrepreneurs, who might be interested to sell them too, in other areas.

“One of the projects of the PPCC is Baracalan sa Banua to support entrepreneurs in Puerto Princesa in the promotion of their products. We have a lot of visitors, who are probably looking for prospects too,” she said.

Pua said they have been promoting local products and Baracalan would best highlight their efforts.

City Council approves Septage Management Ordinance

By Raymond Almodal

After more than a year, the City Council of Puerto Princesa finally favours Puerto Princesa City Water District (PPCWD) to implement Septage Management in the city through an ordinance authored by Councilor Gregorio Roy Ventura which has been approved for third and final reading in the latest session of the legislative body.

It is recalled that since 2012, the City Water District is already pushing for the management of septic tank’s waste disposal as it threatens our ground water sources. “We need to ensure water quality, in a way it is safe for drinking”, said PPCWD General Manager Antonio Jesus R. Romasanta.

He likewise ensures the readiness of the Water District for septage management since 2012 but lacks the police power. “I am happy that finally, with the approval of the said ordinance, we will have the capacity to do so,” he added.

The PPCWD’s mandate for septage management is according to section 5(b) of PD No. 198 (Provincial Water Utilities Act of 1973) which says “ Local water district may be formed pursuant to this title for the purpose of (b) providing, maintaining and operating wastewater collection, treatment and disposal facilities. It is also supported by Section 8 of R.A. No. 9275 (Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004) “In the case of HUCs, non‐HUCs and LGUs where water districts, water utilities and LGU waterworks have already been constituted and operational, the water supply utility provider shall be responsible for the sewerage facilities and the main line pursuant to PD No. 198 and other relevant laws.”

Meanwhile, according to City Councilor Roy Ventura, the septage management program will help the city in terms of environmental protection, proper waste water management, sanitation and water quality management.

The author compared that we will spend less if Water District will manage the program rather than availing the service of a private company for desludging. “If private, we will spend more or less Php7, 000, but with PPCWD, we will only spend Php 3,500 or even less”, Ventura pointed out.

Ventura said that the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for this ordinance will be immediately prepared for the PPCWD to kick-off the said program in the city.

Rehabilitation of PQMI mined-out area in Sta. Lourdes commences

By Catherine Santos

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) in partnership with the City Government of Puerto Princesa has started its rehabilitation activities in the mined-out areas of Palawan Quicksilver Mine, Inc. (PQMI) and hope to turn it into a tourist destination.

The construction of outer perimeter fence of more or less eight hectares has commenced. This despite the possible impact of the project to around 20 households located within the area.

According to City Environment and Natural Resources Officer Atty. Carlo B. Gomez, community consultation was conducted by the MGB and has acquired permit and clearances from various government agencies.

The Bgy. Council of Sta. Lourdes already issued Resolution 18 series of 2015 interposing no objection on the realization of the project. That’s why, even there is no finality yet on whether affected families will be paid or relocated, the construction of pit lake outer fence already commenced in areas where there are no occupants.

However, Atty. Gomez clarified that the City Government has no counterpart in terms of funding. The role in the project is to ensure the environmental viability of the project.

He stressed out that it is included in the Memorandum of Agreement signed between the MGB and the City Government of Puerto Princesa since December 29, 2014. “As far as the City {Government} is concerned, we just look to the environmental viability of the project,” he added.

The P15M DENR-funded project is composed of 3 phases. For phase 1 is the pit lake outer perimeter fencing, the second one is the inner perimeter fencing and the last phase includes construction of pit benches engineering and landscaping, slope protection and vegetation and construction of 3-meter “hike-jog-bike” pathway with park lighting.

The project according to Atty. Gomez is expected to be completed in 2017.

In an interview with MGB Regional Director Roland De Jesus, he said that the rehabilitation project is part of MGB’s mandate.

“Sa new mining law kasi kailangan ang mga minahan ay mag-rehabilitate ng lugar after nila minahin, pero sa old law kasi wala ito (rehabilitation),” De Jesus said.

Palawan Quicksilver Mines was established in Puerto Princesa City in 1954. Tons of mercury from a mine were shipped to Japan until 1975 when the company closed down. Since then, higher than normal mercury levels has been found in many residents of the barangay where the mine was located and even in Honda Bay.

PQMI is one the 22 abandoned mines in the country identified by the DENR for rehabilitation to restore the original state of the environment.

TripAdvisor names El Nido’s Nacpan Beach as one of the world’s best

By Tessa Distor

The Nacpan Beach in El Nido is considered one of the best beaches in the world, according to the TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice awards.

The American-based travel website, unveiled 25 of the world’s best beaches on February 17, 2016.

Landing on the 10th spot, the 4-kilometer Napcan Beach is the only Philippine beach which made it to the list. Of the four Asian beaches which are included in the list, it is the second to enter top 10 next to Myanmar’s Ngapali Beach.

According to the TripAdvisor, the best time to go to the Napcan Beach is from December to March.

“A long coastline, golden sand, beautiful crystal waters, and a completely virgin landscape make a visit to this place unforgettable!” the TripAdvisor wrote in the beach’s description.

The beaches were selected based on the reviews and ratings written by TripAdvisor’s users in 2015.

Baia do Sancho in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil made way for Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, after previously topping the said list in two consecutive years.

The other Asian beaches found in the top 25 list are Kata Noi Beach in Karon Phuket, Thailand at the 19th rank and Agonda Beach in Agonda, Goa, India at the 22nd rank.

Here is the complete list, courtesy of TripAdvisor:

  1. . Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
  2. . Baia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
  3. . Playa Paraiso, Cayo Largo, Cuba
  4. . Anse Lazio, Praslin Island, Seychelles
  5. . Cayo de Agua, Los Roques National Park, Venezuela
  6. . Flamenco Beach, Culebra, Puerto Rica
  7. . Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera, Spain
  8. . Ngapali Beach, Ngapali, Myanmar
  9. . West Bay Beach, Roatan, Honduras
  10. . Nacpan Beach, El Nido, Philippines
  11. . Maho Beach, U.S. Virgin Islands, Caribbean
  12. . Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Queensland, Australia
  13. . Sharm El Luli, Marsa Alam, Red Sea and Sinai Egypt
  14. . Elafonissi Beach, Elafonissi, Crete, Greece
  15. . Playa Manuel Antonio, Manuel Antonio National Park, Province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica
  16. . The Baths, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
  17. . Camp’s Bay Beach Camps Bay, Western Cape, South Africa
  18. . Praia da Marinha, Carvoeiro, Algarve, Portugal
  19. . Kata Noi Beach, Karon Phuket, Thailand
  20. . Clearwater Beach, Clearwater, Florida, United States
  21. . Playa Paraiso, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
  22. . Agonda Beach, Agonda, Goa, India
  23. . Horseshoe Bay Beach, Southampton Parish, Bermuda, Caribbean
  24. . Tumon Beach, Tumon, Guam, Mariana Islands
  25. . Praia de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Ilha do Sal, Cape Verde

Puerto Princesa's 'prison without bars' as tourist destination

By Alixandra Caole Vila (philstar.com)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan - Iwahig Prison & Penal Farm (IPPF), a community where almost three thousand offenders roam freely, is being developed as a main tourist attraction by Palawan Liberation Task Force, an organization composed of government, private and international groups.

As part of their plan to introduce Puerto Princesa's rich heritage to the world, the group is planning to promote the "prison without bars" in tourists itineraries.

On Tuesday, Palawan Liberation Task Force, in cooperation with Air Asia invited several press members to tour inside the IPPF.

"We found out na meron pa palang mga markers na nagsasabi na may mga important historical part pa ang Iwahig. Noon, they (people) take the importance of Iwahig in history for granted," Liezl Ogdamin of the Provincial Tourism Office.

"Ang tourism madalas, puro 'what is in, ano yung uso,' ngayon dapat pati yung mga nakaraan na naging parte ng history ng Pilipinas kasama din," she added. Lifestyle Feature - Travel ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1

IPPF was founded on November 16, 1904. It was originally named "Iuhit Penal Settlement," intended initially to isolate worst and incorrigible offenders at the Old Bilibid Prison in Manila.

In 1945, it became the command center for the US Army's operations. In 1972, by the virtue of Presidential Decree 28, it was converted to a regional prison and named IPPF. Moreover, documentaries also noted that prisoners of war during world war II swam across the Iwahig river to escape the horrifying carnage carried out by the Japanese soldiers. The event, known as the "Palawan Massacre" where 139 POWs were burned alive is considered to be one of the most gruesome events in history,

At present, the primary function of IPPF is to rehabilitate offenders who are convicted to suffer more than three years of imprisonment, rather than punish them. Set in a farm, 30 to 45 minutes away from the Puerto Princesa city center, offenders are provided humane treatment in a community where a merit system was devised and they are taught to engage in agricultural and vocational activities.

"This is more like a modern farm rather than a prison. In here, we give them hope and we make them do things that normal people do. We have a total of six programs. They even have a program for education and skills. May K-12 sila at ALS and regular training skills program," said IPPF's Superintendent, Antonio C. Cruz.

According to Cruz, the products that they do through the livelihood program are placed in a souvenir shop inside the IPPF where they are sold to people visiting the place.

"The projects are sold to tousirt in exchange for money they can use to provide for their families. Because of that hindi na rin sila mamomroblema kung pano ang pamilya nila."

Families of the offenders are allowed to live inside the IPPF. Their latest record shows there are 21 inmates with their families also confined in IPPF.

Aside from the markers and significant events that transpired in IPPF. It also houses other tourists lures such as the balsahan river (natural pool), campo uno, recreation halls and the iwahig river where a firefly tour is being offered.

Asked about the security of IPPF, Cruz said so far, no one has ever tried to harm anyone who dared to visit the place. According to him the operating system of IPPF is effective as the offenders "feel more of a human than a criminal."

The colony according to him is a successful settlement.

City Government to buy heavy equipment to help PPCWD’s water distribution

By Raymond Almodal

To assist the Puerto Princesa City Water District when water supply problem worsens due to El Niño phenomenon, the City Government of Puerto Princesa is about to purchase trucks, tankers, prime mover to aid in water distribution.

Mayor Lucilo Bayron told the Palawan News that this just one of the salient points of the agreement with Task Force El Niño composed of City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO), Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA Palawan), Puerto Princesa City Water District (PPCWD), and the City Fire Department.

Bayron said that there is an allotted fund for the purpose and the city government is preparing the necessary document to comply with the procurement process.

He believes that this is not just another short-term solution since water shortage is now a “consistent” problem during summer time, with or without El Niño.

“So the equipment that will be bought can still be used in the next coming years,” Bayron added.

The local government wanted to acquire one prime mover and four tankers. The number of vehicles to be purchased can actually be doubled according to Bayron depending on the availability of funds.

The city government will assigned specific distribution centers wherein residents who will be experiencing water shortage will have an alternative source of water.

Bayron added that this purpose is not only to help in the water distribution but it can also help in case of fire since summer time is also prone for more number of fire incidents.

Palawan’s ‘Bantay Turista’ to set up tourist desks in 4 towns

(PNA), FFC/CARF/EBP

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Feb. 16 (PNA) -- The Palawan provincial government's Bantay Turista (BT) project, in support of its tourism industry, will start setting up tourist desks, initially, in four municipalities.

Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer for Media and Training Roselee Buenconsejo, who is also the project's head, said Monday that the tourist desks will be initially set up in the towns of Quezon and Brooke’s Point in southern Palawan, and San Vicente and El Nido in mainland north of the province.

Buenconsejo said the municipalities were selected as pilot areas of the tourist desks, which will eventually be placed in Coron, Busuanga, Taytay and Narra, which are also frequented by visitors.

BT will begin setting up the tourist desks in March, and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) will lead the activity.

Through the tourist desks, guests and visitors can get information about what they need to know before visiting any site in the municipalities mentioned.

Buenconsejo reiterated that the focus of the project is to keep tourists visiting Palawan safe from any untoward incident.

To implement the purpose, the PDRRMO will coordinate with the police and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) that will play big roles in the effort to keep Palawan’s tourism industry flourishing.

Buenconsejo also explained that part of the targets of the BT project is to also provide trainings and seminars to resort, hotel, tour operators, and front desk officers, who can help provide vital information about tourism in the province and how travels can be safe.

The modules that will be used for these trainings will come from the Department of Tourism (DOT), she said.

DOH-Mimaropa heightens alert against Zika and Mers Cov

By Archie Barone

The Department of Health- Mimaropa Region intensifies alert in Palawan against emerging diseases like Zika Virus and Mers Cov.

Monitoring is being strengthened to ensure that there will be a zero-case in Puerto Princesa and Palawan.

According to Regional Director Eduardo Janairo, because Palawan is indeed one of the best tourist destinations all over the globe, the tourist arrival is consistently increasing, the threat that there may be a “tourist” that could be a carrier of Zika or Mers Cov, will always be there.

In relation to that, precautionary measures are being implemented at the airport to ensure that there will be no entry of possible carrier of emerging diseases.

The Zika virus is a mosquito-transmitted infection related to dengue, yellow fever and West Nile virus. Although it was discovered in the Zika forest in Uganda in 1947 and is common in Africa, Asia and the Western Hemisphere. Scientific concern is focused on women who become infected while pregnant and those who develop a temporary form of paralysis after exposure to the Zika virus.

Janairo added that they already advised tourism establishments on what to-do should there be any symptoms of Zika or Mers Cov on their guests.

DOH Mimaropa enhances Palawan’s program for Diabetes, Hypertension

By Lyndon Plantilla (LP/LBR/PIA4B)

QUEZON CITY, February 14 (PIA) --- The Department of Health – Mimaropa recently urged diabetics and hypertensives of Palawan to work with their municipal health centers and rural health units for their long-term treatment.

“I encourage those with diabetes and hypertension to register at their nearest health center to become members of the DOH Hypertension and Diabetes Clubs to be able to avail of the free maintenance medicines that will be provided to all patients,” said Director Eduardo C. Janairo who led the turn-over of 105 Blood Pressure apparatuses (one per municipal health office) and 287 glucometers (one per rural health unit) to their local counterparts in Palawan.

Among the drugs that will be available are Losartan, Amlodipine, Metroprolol for hypertension and Metformin for diabetes. Insulin on the other hand will be provided for patients with severe diabetic conditions.

“Primary health care facilities must be well-equipped and integrated with essential devices for effective monitoring and assessment in the community level," said Director Janairo

Before people can be enrolled into the DOH Hypertension and Diabetic Club programs, they must be assessed and screened in health centers. Barangay health workers will conduct the diagnosis in regional health units (RHUs) before enrollment in either clubs.

RHUs will furnish the DOH central office with the list of members of the Hypertension and Diabetes Club for a database record. Under the system, risk assessment for community members can be done and regular follow-up of diagnosed hypertensive and diabetic patients can be achieved.

Complications can be prevented when blood pressures and sugar levels are regulated or sustained within normal values.

Puerto Princesa to develop 'Hundred Caves' as eco-tourism site

(PNA), JBP/CARF/KASF/PJN

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Feb. 13 (PNA) -- How can this city of natural wonders conserve its Hundred Caves? The answer is simple and clear: Develop it for eco-tourism.

A five-year management plan for the protection and conservation of Hundred Caves, a potential eco-tourism site in Barangay Tagabinet, Puerto Princesa City is now up for approval and adoption of the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD).

PCSD is a multi-sectoral and intergovernmental agency created through RA 7611 or the Strategic Environment Plan for Palawan Act of 1992.

The 2016-2020 cave management plan was developed and prepared by the PCSD Staff in coordination with the City Tourism Office, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park-Project Management Office (PPSRNP-PMO), Center for Sustainability, Barangay Council of Tagabinet and other concerned stakeholders.

This is pursuant to PCSD’s mandate to implement R.A. 9072 or the National Caves and Cave Resources Management and Protection Act of 2001, which directs the State to “conserve, protect and manage caves and cave resources as part of the country’s natural wealth.”

In Palawan, there are 94 caves identified from 2008 to 2014.

Meanwhile, the presentation of the Hundred Caves management plan was included on the agenda of the 222nd PCSD Regular Meeting on January 28, but the Council has deferred it for further review.

Once adopted and implemented, it will prompt the local stakeholders to undertake necessary protection and conservation measures for the cave ecosystem and its surrounding environment.

PERFECT FOR ECO-TOURISM

It will also serve as a guide in developing tourism-related capacities of the community, which, in turn, will provide alternative livelihood and generate income for the locals.

By historical account, Hundred Caves of Tagabinet was discovered during the 1990s by Bueg Lais, a member of Palaw’an indigenous tribe in search for caves in Tagabinet karst areas that possesses edible birds’ nest (EBN).

It is a solution-type of cave having an elevation of 80 meters (cave mouth) above sea level.

“This cave system is multi-stored and possesses a series of continuous narrow ‘maze-like’ and/or winding interconnecting passages and vertical pitches which are both challenging and beautiful,” described the management plan’s executive summary.

Given its characteristic, Hundred Caves was classified as Class 3. As such, its surrounding area can carry soft impact eco-tourism activities such as guided educational cave tour, cave photography, birdwatching, rock climbing, as well as scientific studies.

This “Green Tourism” program for the Hundred Caves, which is anchored on the concept of community-based sustainable tourism (CBST), will also capacitate the Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism Association (TNTA).

As in the experience of other CBSTs in Puerto Princesa, the said program is proven to address both the issues on environmental conservation and socio-economic improvement of the local communities concerned.

But Tagabinet also has to consider various elements that the program entails, including the visitation management, tourism infrastructure development, establishment of an equitable income sharing and user’s fee system, and accreditation of tourism establishments, among others.

Once operational, it will serve as an additional tourist destination, along side the City Tour, the Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) and island hopping in Honda Bay.

ADDRESSING THREATS

Hundred Caves, however, has its fair share of issues and concerns that threaten its ecological integrity.

As noted by the management plan’s executive summary, among those are “the uncontrolled tourism and exploration activities, and uncontrolled edible birds nest collection which resulted to presence of cave hazards, destruction of rock formations, and the presence of vandals and graffiti’s along the walls and flooring of the cave system.”

“Reports of lack of governance and enforcement implementation as well as lack of human resources also pose threat to Hundred Caves,” it added.

Through participatory planning and validation workshops, interventions seen to address such threats were identified as follows: (1) entrance in the cave has to be regulated to cushion the impact of “mass tourism”; (2) delineating a buffer zone around the Hundred Caves as well as development of other activities outside the cave can minimize the existing and potential adverse effects of economic activities; and (3) establishment of a governing body that will implement and monitor activities in the area is also needed.

DOH-MIMAROPA turns-over BP Apparatus and Glucometer to Palawan

By Jumong Ustares

The Department of Health (DOH) – MIMAROPA (Oriental/Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) today handed over hundreds of Blood Pressure (BP) Apparatus and Glucometer in various municipal and rural health units in the province of Palawan.

A total of 105 BP apparatus (1 per municipal health office) and 287 glucometers (1 per rural health unit) were provided in the province of Palawan.

According to Regional Director Eduardo C. Janairo, these two apparatus will serve support groups in the communities and ensure the treatment and management of people with NCDs (Non-Communicable Diseases). “Primary health care facilities must be well-equipped and integrated with essential devices for effective monitoring and assessment in the community level”.

“I encourage those with diabetes and hypertension to register at their nearest health center to become a member of the DOH Hypertension and Diabetes Club to be able to avail of the free maintenance medicines that will be provided to all patients,” he urged. Among the drugs that will be available for hypertension (Losartan, Amlodipine, Metroprolol) and diabetes (Metformin). Insulin will also be provided for patients with severe diabetic condition.

Janairo added that a patient needs to undergo assessment and screening in their respective health centers to be part of the DOH Hypertension and Diabetes Club Program. The Barangay health workers will conduct the diagnosis in the RHUs before a patient can be enrolled in the club. The RHUs will furnish the DOH central office with the list of members of the Hypertension and Diabetes Club for a database record.

The program will ensure program will enable risk assessment of community members and ensure a regular follow-up of diagnosed hypertensive and diabetic patients. Complications that may arise can be prevented and blood pressure and sugar level of members will be regulated.

DTI-Palawan monitors stores selling sub-standard helmets

By Jumong Ustares

The Department of Trade and Industry in the Province of Palawan is continuously monitoring the compliance of stores selling motorcycle helmets ensuring they meet the quality standard set by the government.

DTI Provincial Director Rosenda Fortunado said the monitoring activities are focused on checking motorcycle helmets being sold in stores in Palawan to make sure these have Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker as embodied in the Motorcycle Helmet Act (Republic Act 10054).

The law aims to protect motorists from severe impact, specifically on the head, in case of accident. Based on previous recorded motorcycle accidents those who died were not wearing helmets or they used helmets which are not durable to withstand the impact.

The stricter implementation of Motorcycle Helmet Act started in 2013 and the monitoring activities of DTI continue until today.

In Palawan, there are local government units that strictly implement the law by passing a supporting ordinance to compel motorists to wear helmet while driving motorcycle.

City Council seeks regulation in the conduct of medical missions

(PalawanNews)

The City Council of Puerto Princesa has approved during its regular session an ordinance authored by Councilor Roy Gregorio Ventura which regulates the conduct of medical, dental, optometric missions and the like in the City of Puerto Princesa.

The highlight of the ordinance is to be stricter in the issuance of permits of medical missions from the City Health Office.

Councilor Ventura said that thru the ordinance, the welfare of citizens will be more protected. It was observed that some of the medical missions were conducted without any permission from the concerned authorities. He believes that since it concerns the health and well-being of the people, proper implementation must really be ensured all the time.

Meanwhile, medical missions during calamities or accidents will be exempted and will be issued an automatic permit.

Based in the ordinance, there will be a P1, 500 fine for the first violation. A fine of P3, 000 and P5, 000 will be imposed for the second and third violations respectively. The latter’s penalty also includes imprisonment of not less than six months.

Implementing Rules and Regulations is expected to be formulated immediately following the approval of the said ordinance.

Solid Waste Management Office to provide 600 additional garbage bins

By Grace Belostrino

Starting Monday, February 8, the City Solid Waste Management Office (SWMO) will add 600 more garbage bins in different areas of Puerto Princesa City.

According to Andrew Russel, head of the SWMO, the new garbage bins ranging from medium to large sizes have just been delivered and are ready for disposal anytime.

Populated areas, national highways will be prioritized as these are strategic areas.

As of this writing, SWMO is still conducting studies of which particular places that the bins must be located. Russel urged the public to take care of the garbage bins and not to use it for personal purposes.

To regulate the proper use of the garbage bins, a resolution was filed before the City Council to penalize those who will be caught using such inside their residence.

The SWMO assured the public that the 14 garbage trucks are fully-functional collecting around 120 tons of wastes or garbage every day and haul it to the sanitary landfill.

He likewise advised all residents of the city to be very particular with the specific schedules of garbage collection at their respective barangays to help the local government unit in the maintenance of cleanliness in the “cleanest and greenest” city in the country.

Starting Monday, February 8, the City Solid Waste Management Office (SWMO) will add 600 more garbage bins in different areas of Puerto Princesa City.

According to Andrew Russel, head of the SWMO, the new garbage bins ranging from medium to large sizes have just been delivered and are ready for disposal anytime.

Populated areas, national highways will be prioritized as these are strategic areas.

As of this writing, SWMO is still conducting studies of which particular places that the bins must be located. Russel urged the public to take care of the garbage bins and not to use it for personal purposes.

To regulate the proper use of the garbage bins, a resolution was filed before the City Council to penalize those who will be caught using such inside their residence.

The SWMO assured the public that the 14 garbage trucks are fully-functional collecting around 120 tons of wastes or garbage every day and haul it to the sanitary landfill.

He likewise advised all residents of the city to be very particular with the specific schedules of garbage collection at their respective barangays to help the local government unit in the maintenance of cleanliness in the “cleanest and greenest” city in the country.

City Council expects more concrete plan from CTMO to lessen traffic problems after dry-run

(Palawan News)

The City Council of Puerto Princesa is hoping that the City Traffic Management Office (CTMO) will layout a more concrete plan on how to reduce traffic problems at New Market area after the 15-day dry run period inside the Puerto Princesa Land Transportation Terminal.

The Council in its recent regular session approved Resolution No. 1439-2016 giving authority to the CTMO to implement a new scheme in San Jose area to help solve the worsening traffic problems in the city.

This approval came after a thorough study of the Committee on Transportation led by Councillor Miguel T. Cuaderno IV. The members of the Council requested all the drivers, commuters and the general public who will be affected by the experimental traffic scheme to be open-minded and support the said program.

Cuaderno assured the public that they will make sure that the problems will be properly addressed in due time. The dry-run started February 1 and will end on the 15th.

Hydro power project in Langogan to commence construction

By Catherine Santos

After seven years of struggling for their project application, Mike Wotton of Langogan Power Corporation (LPC) finally announces the construction of 6.8 megawatt hydroelectric power project in Barangay Langogan, Puerto Princesa City immediately after its ground-breaking ceremony Friday, February 5.

As presented by Steve Dorland of LPC during the kick-off ceremony, the said project is about to produce 32 million kwh per year. This ‘run of the river’ type project is around 21 kilometers from its powerhouse located at upper Sitio Manggapin down to the existing 69 KV backbone gridline at barangay central. The target commissioning of the construction project is March 2018 and is expected to last for two years.

LPC assured the public of the sustainability of Langogan River based from series of comprehensive hydrologic studies. Using the satellite historic information from NASA, the rainfall is converted to run-off or river flow, the river will not dry even in 50 years time. Environment and watershed management involving different stakeholders and the community will be incorporated in the project to ensure the river’s sustainability.

Palawan Electric Cooperative General Manager Ric Zambales believes that this new power supply agreement upon operation will help a lot in the stability of power supply in the province. It will also help reduce the power cost, he added.

City Mayor Lucilo R. Bayron who was also present in the even expressed his excitement in the first-ever renewable energy in the City. He is even more thrilled by the promise of LPC of 20, 624 tons reduction of carbon dioxide emission per annum compare to other typical power providers.

The Ambassador of Great Britain Asif Ahmad graced the occasion in support to British investors helping Filipinos. “Gusto ko na mapabuti ang buhay ng mga Pilipino,” he fluently aforesaid in Filipino to the delight of the attendees of the said event.

Langogan Bgy. Captain Camilo Bebit and Bert Madamay, a Batak Chieftain expressed happiness to the realization of the project. According to Madamay, it will benefit their tribe in terms of easy road access, free of charge of electricity and possible employment of some members of their indigenous cultural community.

Aside from project in Langogan, the LPC holds other service contracts to develop hydro power projects in Palawan one of which is an 8 megawatt facility located at Batang-Batang, Narra. Palawan and an under application 3.5 megawatt facility along Talakaigan River in Aborlan.

New city possible in southern Palawan if oil palm industry flourishes

(PNA), LAP/CARF/PJN

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Feb. 5 (PNA) -- The possibility of creating a new city in southern Palawan is not far from happening with the help of the oil palm industry, according to the chief executive officer of a Malaysian agro-industrial company Thursday.

Camarul Osman, chief executive officer (CEO) of the ALIF Agro Industrial, Inc.(AAII)-Philippines said the southern Palawan town of Narra can be a spanking urban area if the oil palm industry flourishes.

He said this following the launching Thursday in this city of the Palawan Integrated Oil Palm Hub (PIOPH).

The début is anchored on the fact that AAII has a number of oil palm pilot projects in various barangays in Narra totaling about 5,000 hectares.

These pilot projects, he said, can make the province accessible to more investors not only in oil palm, but others as well.

Osman’s optimistic projection about creating a new city in Palawan comes despite the failure to prosper oil palm farming in Palawan years ago.

Thursday’s launching of the PIOPH hopes to push the industry again under the public-private partnership. This effort is led in Palawan by the Palawan Palm Oil Industry Development Council (PPOIDC) composed of numerous stakeholders.

PIOPH’s launching was the product of a palm oil summit held September last year in Puerto Princesa, where it was held as among the highest yielding crops in the world compared to coconut.

Osman said Palawan, with its large tracts of land is ideal for flourishing the industry in the Philippines. Out of 350,000 hectares of land in the country, about a hundred thousand hectares are in Palawan and can be planted with palm oil.

He said that if their pilot projects are able to survive challenges, Palawan will not only be in the world map of palm oil industry, but will also have opportunities in the development of additional urban areas.

To refresh the interest of Palaweños in taking on the industry, Osman said ALIF is willing to help train them in adopting the technology that Malaysia is utilizing for its successful oil palm farming.

Oil palm is easy to plant and compared to coconut, it does not need much time for maintenance, harvesting and even marketing. It is also said to have many comparative advantages over other crops.

Similar to the best hybrid corn, oil palm H hybrid grows fast and is very sturdy once planted in the field. Oil palm trees are greener in weedy fields, where coconut trees may appear chlorotic due to weed competition.

El Nido draws more local tourists

By Raoul J. Chee Kee (Inquirer Lifestyle)

With the reopening of Lagen Island last December, the four properties that comprise the luxurious El Nido Resorts are once again fully operational.

In the next few years, LiO—an Ayala Land development being constructed in phases in El Nido, Palawan—will complement the resort’s Miniloc, Apulit, Pangulasian and Lagen islands.

Once completed, LiO will consist of residences, commercial establishments and several bed and breakfasts (B&Bs).

Business has certainly picked up in this sleepy seaside town. There are now four daily flights in 50-seater planes that take off from the Island Transvoyager hangar in Manila. In the past, there were only two flights in tiny planes with a handful of passengers at a time.

El Nido Resorts group director of operations Marc Cerqueda said there are also more Filipino travelers now compared a few years ago when it was mostly foreign tourists. The ratio now is 45 percent Filipinos and 55 percent foreigners.

That Palawan has been awarded by Condé Nast Traveler as Best Island in the World for two years now has no doubt drawn more attention to this “piece of paradise.”

Pride

We would often hear this phrase during a recent visit to Lagen Island. It’s easy to understand, seeing how the staff takes great pride in their place of work.

Resort manager Jennifer Zafra narrated how she and her staff hand-carried the Machuca tiles imported from Spain to the different villas to avoid breakage. The tiles were then carefully assembled in the verandas of each villa.

Architect Conrad Onglao came up with the tropical colonial look that is more modern and easier on the eye. Earth tones abound, paired with slashes of graphic black and white.

Woven details like the solihiya headboard and lamp bases in the guest rooms, as well as the framed botanical prints by Father Blanco on the wall, complete the look.

“We knew that if there were too many breakages, additional tiles would have to be ordered and we don’t know when those would arrive from Spain,” Zafra said.

This admirable passion for work and determination to avoid wastage continues even in the company-managed small-sized farm in El Nido town that provides 55 percent of the resorts’ vegetable needs. Nine screened-off vegetable plots are devoted to growing pechay, arugula, lettuce and eggplant.

Nearby is a piggery. Vegetable cuttings, kitchen scraps and the pigs’ manure are composted and used to fertilize the plots.

“We started growing vegetables back in 2006,” said the resort’s marine biologist Marigs Laririt. “We supplied only 15 percent of the resorts’ needs at the time but we’ve been increasing that amount every year. We are also able to provide work for residents; 80 percent of our staff is from Palawan.”

Laririt later told Inquirer Lifestyle that “sustainability” is a word El Nido Resorts takes seriously.

“It’s important to come up with more activities for guests like line fishing, a process still used by local fishermen involving squid as bait, a length of nylon thread and a lot of patience,” Laririt noted.

El Nido also offers locally sourced dishes like seafood and bahay kubo vegetables. “Unlike the chefs of the past whose concept of five-star fare is steak and sea bass, younger chefs are more willing to experiment,” she said. “They’re up for the challenge of taking these local ingredients and presenting them in a number of delicious ways.”

These and many other initiatives have made El Nido Resorts a favorite of a growing number of Filipino travelers. “We have entire clans, from grandparents to grandchildren, who book several villas,” Cerqueda said. “They make their first big family trip to Palawan instead of Singapore or Hong Kong; there are lolas who tell us they tried snorkeling for the first time at the resort or when they go island-hopping.”

DOST leads launch of ICT-based business centers in Mimaropa

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

The first-ever international information and communication technology business incubator in the Mindoro-Marinduque-Romblon-Palawan region was opened at the Palawan State University-Main Campus in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan to provide Filipino technology entrepreneurs in Palawan a hub to incubate and accelerate ICT business enterprises.

The ICT business incubator was launched by the Department of Science and Technology-Mimaropa Palawan State University, Palaweño ICT Association, and Make a Difference Industries of Malaysia.

The Palawan International Information and Communications Technology Business Incubator cum Start-up Hub, also known as Palawan ITBI, caters to the growing number of technology-based start-ups.

The TBI provides start-ups a platform where they can develop their tech-relevant ideas into products that will be able to compete in the global market.

Josefina Abilay, DOST-Mimaropa regional director, said the newly launched start-up hub is where “ideas can be transformed into products and start-ups can be guided to become fully-fledged entrepreneurs.”

“It is timely that this initiative is finally offering incubation services to young professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs so that their ideas or start-up products will be accelerated through the Palawan TBI,” she added.

DSWD’s sustainable livelihood awards PHP450K to fishermen in Palawan town

(PNA), FFC/CARF/SSC

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Feb. 1 (PNA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) recently awarded PHP450,000 to a fishermen’s group in Cuyo, Palawan to help them establish fish cages.

Jason Eco Oliverio of the DSWD-MIMAROPA Social Marketing Unit (SMU), said over the weekend that the amount was awarded to the Cuyo Fishermen SLP Association that has 45 members in Barangay Suba, Cuyo.

The association that was created under the SLP modalities is one of the recipients of the Enterprise Capital Assistance (ECA) that provides start up capitals.

The fund, Oliverio said, was coursed through the Post-Yolanda Recovery and Rehabilitation Program (YRRP) which aims to give livelihood support to super typhoon Yolanda affected communities.

With the assistance fund, the association is expected to generate PHP135,000 per month from 1.3 tons of fish caught.

SLP, a community-based capacity-building program that seeks to improve the socio-economic status of its participants, is implemented using the Community-Driven Enterprise Development approach which enables participants to contribute to production and labor markets by looking at available resources and accessible markets.

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