Pangasinan News May 2014

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Pangasinan Province - Archived News
Interactive Google Satellite Map of Pangasinan Province, Philippines
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Map Locator of Pangasinan Province
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The Capitol Building of Pangasinan in the municipality of Lingayen

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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Pangasinan State University, Asingan Campus
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Church in Aguilar Pangasinan

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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Tondol Beach, Anda

Pangasinan Credit Surety Fund posts P22.6 M trust fund

By Leonardo V. Micua [(PNA), CTB/LVMICUA/RMA]

As of Dec. 31, 2013, the Pangasinan Credit Surety Fund (PCSF) has now accumulated a total of P22.6 million trust fund with 18 cooperatives as members.

This was contained in the annual report of the province’s program management support team during the PCSF's 4th General Assembly here last Friday, attended among others by cooperative managers.

Luzviminda Muego, a member of the support team, said the amount was pooled from the contributions of the donor institutions amounting to P16.6 million and P 5.9 million from the member cooperatives.

The provincial government, under the leadership of Gov. Amado T. Espino, Jr., donated P10 million for the credit surety fund when it was introduced here by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in May 2011.

It was learned that Pangasinan has the highest contribution with CSF from among 29 provinces in the country since it was introduced in 2008. As a result, the province was cited as the “Most Outstanding Local Government Unit in support to the Credit Surety Fund by BSP in July 2013.

The Credit Surety Fund aims to highlight the significant role of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) not only in the countryside development but also as drivers of the Philippine economy as well.

The trust fund serves as collateral of the cooperative-members. If they are applying for loans with banks, they are given certificates of guarantee by CSF. In this way, a cooperative can avail of loans 10 times of its paid contributions with minimal interest.

Aside from the province, the other donors to the province’s CSF include the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) which contributed P3 million while the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) shared P1 million. On the other hand, the Industrial Guarantee Loan Fund (ILGF) put up P2.6 million to the fund.

Contributions to the CSF has now reached P6.2 from P2.6 million in 2012. Six more cooperatives joined the PCSF from the original 12 members, raising the membership to 18.

The coop with the highest contribution to the fund, according to the annual report, is the Albacopa Federation of Cooperatives in Alcala town at P1.6 million.

On the other hand, the Biba-Diwa Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) in Malasiqui and San Gabriel Segundo MPC in Bayambang town contributed P1.1 million and P1 million, respectively, followed by Malingas MPC in Calasiao which contributed P500,000.

The annual report also revealed that the province’s Credit Surety Fund has already helped the member-cooperatives in their agri-based ventures with total cumulative loans up to P35 million as of December 31.

Provincial Administrator Rafael Howard Baraan expressed hope that the PCSF will increase its membership by year 2015 and that Local Government Units (LGUs) would also contribute to the trust fund so that more marginalized people will benefit from the program.

“The ultimate measure of success in all our undertakings is we are able to translate the vision of Pangasinan as the best place to invest, work, live and raise a family at the household level,” Baraan told the cooperative managers.

The credit support fund, he said, is now one of the priority programs of the present provincial administration under its livelihood program wherein cooperatives will play an important role in empowering the people to rise from poverty.

“Let us create a dynamic entity so that in the near future cooperatives are the best community organization in the whole world,” Baraan said.

For his part, Dr. Edmund Mendoza, PCSF’s chief-executive officer, pointed out the importance of interdependence among the cooperatives.

“Integration of efforts is very crucial so that we can attain the true spirit of cooperativism,” he said.

In achieving this goal, Mendoza said the PCSF intends to convince other cooperatives to join the credit surety fund targeting 30 member-cooperatives for it to reach its P100-million surety fund target by 2015.

As gleaned from the report, the province has 55 millionaire cooperatives.

Also, it plans to conduct various trainings for the CSF institution members in relation to the improvement of Credit Management and Monitoring Efficiency as well as the installation of Paperless and Interconnected Credit Records Information Systems.

Meanwhile, the PCSF will soon have its office building in Lingayen.

High registration turnout in Pangasinan after Comelec walk

By April Montes (MCA/AMM/PIA-1, Pangasinan)

ROSALES, Pangasinan, May 30 (PIA) – The Commission on Elections has reported a big turnout of registrants after it launched its walking expedition to drum up public awareness on biometrics registration for the 2016 elections.

“Two weeks since the resumption of voters’ registration, Comelec-Pangasinan has some 4, 500 new registrants and 6, 500 validation of registered voters’ biometrics,” said Provincial Elections Supervisor Marino Salas during the culmination program of the “Walkah Walkah: Step Juan Tungo sa Mulat na Botante” held at SM City Rosales here on Thursday.

Comelec-Ilocos Assistant Regional Election Director Reddy Balarbar said the initiative is a laudable information dissemination program that has intensified voters’ education.

Lawyer Temie Lambino, regional election director of Comelec-Central Luzon, said that the walk-for-a-cause program has broken boundaries and made Comelec visible to the public as it rekindled the fire in people’s heart to vote this coming 2016.

“From the extreme northern part of Luzon to the extreme southern part of Mindanao, people (talked about) the Comelec because of this program,” said Lambino.

“Before, people remember voters’ registration only on the first day and they would flock into our offices two days before the end of registration, but now people are more aware because of this continuing voters’ education program,” he said.

The program also shows that Comelec is working almost every day contrary to their perception that the poll body only works during elections, he added.

“I keep on emphasizing that Comelec has two kinds of job: the high profile job which comes every three years during elections and the low profile job which is the registration,” Lambino said.

Comelec Spokesperson and Director of Comelec’s Education and Information Department James Jimenez led the three-day walking event in eastern Pangasinan from May 20 to 22.

Jimenez lauded the provincial election office for its effective information campaign, in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in Pangasinan, which resulted to the big turnout of registrants for the first two weeks.

He said: “One of the goals really of this walk is not just to breeze through in your towns. We wanted to bring voters education to the attention of the people, not here but in Manila, because people in the provinces have full determination to be a part of the democratic system than those in Manila.”

“We wanted to remind those in Manila what elections are all about. Elections are about finding true leaders who will serve us and not merely picking the winners – and this spirit is very much alive in the provinces,” he added.

After Pangasinan, the Comelec Team moved to the province of Tarlac to continue their voters' education campaign and bring the “life march” in the site of the infamous Death March.

“We are doing this (Walkah Walkah) to awaken in every Filipino the desire to register and be part of our democratic system. It’s a life march, it’s a march of awakening,” he said.

Pangasinan upgrades response capabilities of its rescue teams

(Manila Bulletin)

Lingayen, Pangasinan – The local government unit of Pangasinan is exerting best efforts to upgrade the ability of the rescue teams of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC).

Provincial officials, still chased by the memory of typhoon Pepeng in 2009 when 63 people were killed, want no repeat of that incident by increasing the preparedness and responsive skills of the PDRRMC.

[caption id="attachment_150068" align="aligncenter" width="504"] SHOOTING COMPETITION – Police from different stations in Pangasinan take their respective new Glock pistol in action yesterday during the ‘Patrollers Challenge’ shooting competition at the PNP-Pangasinan provincial office shooting range in Lingayen. The competition simulates different scenarios intended to assess the shooting capabilities of the law enforcement agents. (Jojo Rinoza)[/caption]

According to Avenix Arenas, spokesperson of the PDRRMC, most of the victims of typhoon Pepeng were drowned , some were electrocuted, struck with lightning and victims of falling uprooted trees.

“Ito lahat ang pinagdaaanan ng ating mga kababayan kaya naman dapat nating paghandaan,” Arenas said.

Meanwhile, Pangasinenses now can be ensured of prompt and efficient underwater search and rescue in times of disasters, according to Commodore Nodolfo Tejada, commander of the Naval Forces of Northern Luzon of the Philippine Navy.

He addressed some 28 crewmen of the Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) teams of the provincial government and six Local Government Units (LGUs) in the province who underwent proper trainings on Underwater Search and Recovery by the Philippine Navy from May 19 to 23 here.

Tejada, invited as guest of honor and speaker of the training’s closing ceremony at the PDRRMC Conference Hall, lauded the active involvement of the provincial government, LGUs and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region 1 in the activity.

“Mature success will always be dependent on how you will perform and practice the skills you have learned,” the Commodore told the WASAR personnel.

Pangasinan hospitals receive medical equipment

By ELSHA MARIE B. SORIANO (MCA/EMBS/PIA-1, Pangasinan)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan May 28 (PIA) – Various community and district hospitals managed by the provincial government of Pangasinan received some medical equipment donated by a christrian group on May 19 at the Capitol Plaza in Lingayen town.

The More Than Conquerors Breakfast Club (MTCBC), turned over the medical equipment to the Provincial Health Office (PHO) led by Governor Amado Espino, Jr. on May 19 at the Capitol Plaza in this town.

More Than Conquerors Breakfast Club is a religious group that favors no specific religious affiliation.

The donated medical equipment, which include 10 wheel chairs, 10 compressor nebulizers, 10 blood pressure apparatus, 10 stethoscope and a thousand eyeglasses are great help to Pangasinan constituents, most especially for the indigent Pangasinenses, said Espino as he expressed gratefulness to the religious organization.

Ashok Vasandani, president of MTCBC, said the distribution of medical equipment is a God-given golden opportunity to bless those less fortunate people.

“Bless and be blessed,” said Vasandani emphasizing that giving and helping the less fortunate brothers and sisters will help them get back to their original form and regain their trust and confidence.

Vasandani disclosed that their club will continue to support the provincial government as the distribution of medical equipment is just a partial donation.

Pangasinan students receive part of summer job salary

(PNA)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – At least 100 students from Pangasinan received on Monday (May 26) a portion of their salary for working 20 days during their summer vacation.

High school and college students aged 15-25 years old each received P4,909 representing 60 percent of their total salary from the provincial government led by Governor Amado Espino Jr.

The other 40 percent will come from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) which initiated the program.

Provincial Employment and Services Office (PESO) chief Alex Ferrer said the program is DOLE’s in partnership with the provincial government to help students defray their expenses in their schooling.

Ferrer said the students performed administrative support such as clerical jobs in the public hospitals and other government facilities which are located near the students’ residences.

The program dubbed Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) is an annual summer employment program that aims to immerse the youth in the government service and hone their sense of leadership and public service.

Established in 1992, the SPES program mandates DOLE to shoulder 40 percent of the salaries of beneficiaries, while their employers- either local government units, private companies or other sponsor-institutions- are to shoulder the remaining 60 percent.

Meanwhile, Ferrer advised prospective college enrolees in college to pursue electronics, construction and engineering, and information and communication technology courses to fill up the needs of the future’s in-demand industries.

3 rural health buildings inaugurated in Pangasinan

(PNA), JBP/LVM/JOHANNE MARGARETTE R. MACOB/RMA

BINMALEY, Pangasinan, May 26 (PNA) -- Pangasinan (2nd District) Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil led the inauguration and turnover of two Rural Health Unit (RHU) buildings in Barangay (village) Dulag and Camaley in Binmaley and another in Poblacion Labrador.

"The reason I wanted RHUs to be properly inaugurated is because I wanted the people to see where their money is going," he said.

He said one of his functions as district representative is to oversee project-implementations.

Dr. Gladiola Manaois, Binmaley municipal health officer, said the RHUs will serve as their town's "center for wellness and good health."

Bataoil was accompanied during the inauguration by Dr. Jimuel Cardenas of the Department of Health-Region 1, municipal government representatives, and barangay officials, among others.

Meanwhile, Bataoil also remarked, "My strength, my confidence is that you, our people, are with me...I will not lose focus in serving you."

It can be recalled that Bataoil was dragged on the issue of pork barrel scam, after his name appeared in a national broadsheet under the heading, "Members of the House of Representatives in Napoles racket."

Bataoil is the House of Representatives' vice chairman of the Committee on Appropriation.

Meanwhile, Barangay Poblacion in Labrador also received its RHU building on the same day.

Cardenas noted that establishment of the RHUs, which are bigger than barangay health stations, will improve access to health facilities and promote attainment of millennium development goals especially those concerning the bringing down maternal and child mortality rates.

Foreign students join Brigada Eskwela

By Dada Austria and Johanne R. Macob

STUDENTS of International Christian School from Hong Kong arrived in Dagupan to help the teachers, barangay officials, parents and pupils of Caranglaan Elementary School to clean and repair classrooms and chairs as the start of Brigada Eskwela 2014 last week.

The foreign students are also in the country for other community service activities such as the school’s deaf ministry and children ministry that includes improvement of home environment for boys and girls.

They were welcomed by City Mayor Belen Fernandez and City Schools Superintendent Gloria Torres during the official launch of Brigada Eskwela.

Fernandez in her speech before the participants explained the purpose of the national movement and the city’s efforts to protect the city’s pupils from the effects of flooding in the community.

DIVISION 1

More volunteers compared to previous years also participated in the Brigada Eskwela within the area of the Department of Education (DepEd) Pangasinan 1 Division.

“Sa ngayon, mas dumami ang tumulong sa Brigada Eskwela thru the information dissemination campaign ng DepEd at tulong ng ating friends sa media,” said Carmina Gutierrez, DepEd-Pangasinan 1 public information officer, during the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) forum on May 22.

Among the participants in the week-long schools clean-up were school personnel and students; parents and local government units representatives; other volunteers from government agencies such as Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Department of Health; some private companies and non-government organizations such as the Philippine Chamber of Commerce that helped through their donation of paints, plywoods, and other materials.

Gutierrez also assured that the Brigada Eskwela’s “spirit of volunteerism” and cooperation to improve school facilities will continue all year round.

Meanwhile, DepEd’s week-long Oplan Balik Eskwela (OBE) campaign will start on May 26 to reach the target 100% registration rate of school-aged children.

DepEd began its early enrolment campaign last January 28.

Veterinary Medical Mission in Pangasinan hailed

(PNA), CTB/LVM/RMA

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, May 24 (PNA)--Farmers in the island town of Anda hailed a Veterinary Medical Mission conducted by the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVet) in their town last May 22 that provided animal care treatment to more than 100 livestock.

OPVet Officer-in-Charge Dr. Eric Perez said the veterinary medical mission in Barangay Macaleeng had for its theme, “Enhancing Animal Industry for Good Opportunity Venture in Pangasinan.'

The mission was conducted by OPVet in tandem with the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) regional office and the Municipal Agriculture Office to help farmers and fisherfolk boost their income from animal raising.

Dr. Eric Perez said the holding of veterinary medical mission, especially in remote barangays, is one of the priority thrusts of Gov. Amado T. Espino, Jr. to help farmers.

“The provincial government led by Gov. Espino is bringing various programs to our animal population under the care of farmers so that they can be given proper attention for them to maintain good health," he said.

At the same time, Perez urged the residents not to sell their female carabaos still fit to breed as they are source of milk that can give the farmers additional income.

This is pursuant to Provincial Ordinance No. 170-2013 which prohibits the selling of female carabaos that are still fit to breed.

For its provincial ordinance, the first of its kind in the country, the provincial government received a plaque of recognition from the PCC for its efforts to prevent the depletion of the carabao on March 27 this year

About 57 cattle, 30 carabaos, eight goats and 12 dogs were given medical treatment which include deworming, artificial insemination, pregnancy prognosis, vitamins supplementation and anti-rabies vaccination

The Veterinary Medical mission that benefited 38 residents, was coordinated by the PCC staff headed by Dr. Reynaldo Paneda, artificial insemination coordinator, OPVet staff and the LGU’s Municipal Agriculture Office headed by Elizabeth Tomas.

Village chief Damasino Gacutan, Jr and members of the barangay council thanked Gov. Espino for bringing the program to their barangay.

Gacutan said by raising and selling carabaos, many farmers in their village were able to send their children to college who are now professionals.

Pangasinan company's best practices for safety of workers cited

(PNA), SCS/LVM/FREDDIE G. LAZARO/RMA

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, May 23 (PNA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has cited a company in Pangasinan for its best practices for the safety and health of its workers when it embarked on two new programs to achieve Zero Accident by the year 2016.

Supplementing its existing Occupational Safety and Health programs, the Team Energy Corporation (TEC) in Sual Pangasinan adopted the “Kasangga ko sa Safety (KAKOSA)” and the “Safety Mo, Ipapatrol ko (SMIK)” to ensure zero injury to its workforce.

TEC operates the Sual Coal-fired Power Plant which generates 1,200 megawatts of power for the Luzon Grid.

Ruben Licerio, TEC station manager, said the KAKOSA finds inspiration from the concept of buddy system where one is required to be watchful of his friend, co-worker, companion or partner in making sure that while working inside the plant premises, the latter’s job is done correctly.

Licerio said accident is caused by unsafe worker’s behavior and that accident can be prevented only if the worker’s behavior is changed towards safety, adding that 98 percent of accidents are caused by unsafe human behavior based on a study.

He said the end result of the program is a culture based on teamwork and caring for each other.

“Everyone acts as a brother to everybody else -- supervisors to their staff, staff to their supervisors, staff to staff, supervisors to supervisors and employees to contractors -- to correct unsafe practices,” Licerio said.

On the other hand, the “Safety Mo, Ipapatrol Ko” aims to improve health and safety practices and awareness among employees and contractors by continuously reminding them through safety roving patrol, safety and health inspections and information dissemination on safe work practices based on station and corporate procedures and OSH standards.

“In contrast to the KAKOSA which targets human behavior, the SMIK is directed at practices or processes,” Licerio said.

“I commend the TEC and its entire people for unremittingly coming up with different programs and strategies to ensure the safety and health of workers,” said DOLE Regional Director Grace Ursua.

“We have come a long way in inspiring and sustaining commitment in promoting occupational safety and health as part of the government’s goal of decent work,” Ursua said.

“Your two new programs, which are over and above the standard OSH programs you have been implementing, serve to inspire others to further elevate their efforts along occupational safety and health,” she added.

For its sustainable efforts along occupational safety and health, the TEC is a four-time awardee of the Gawad Kaligtasan at Kalusugan (GKK), which is one of the Five Seals of Good Housekeeping under the DOLE’s Incentivizing Compliance Program, with the Tripartite Seal of Excellence being the highest.

Pangasinan ordinance seeks separate restrooms for LGBTs

By Eva Visperas (The Philippine Star)

LINGAYEN, Philippines – An ordinance has been filed in the provincial board seeking to require owners of business establishments in Pangasinan to provide three separate restrooms for males, females and gays.

Authored jointly by Provincial Board Members Alfonso Bince Jr. and Danilo Uy, the proposed measure said that comfort rooms are specifically and naturally designed either for men or women only and most often, gays are confused on which restroom to use.

Uy told The STAR that he has been getting feedback from the gay community on how people, both men and women alike, react when they use public comfort rooms.

Asked if there is also a need to have a separate restroom for lesbians, he said the concern (on lesbians) could be easily remedied as female comfort rooms have individual cubicles that could be locked and used by both women and lesbians, unlike males who use urinals and are therefore exposed to fellow males.

Lesbians are also fewer in number, unlike gays, and they do not encounter such a problem, Uy added.

“This is not discrimination (on gays). This shows they are accepted. We just want to protect all concerned, be it males, females or gays,” he said.

Gays would feel more comfortable and safe to use comfort rooms accessible exclusively to them, the measure said.

Bince and Uy, who are both senior citizens, believe that there is a need for the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to find a solution for this dilemma of gay people.

The proposal said that it is time that Pangasinan and its citizens become more aware of the rights of gays and respond to their needs.

The proposed ordinance calendared under first reading last Monday covers business establishments catering to the public such as banks, bus terminals, department stores, entertainment places, gasoline stations and groceries especially those operating 24 hours, hospitals, internet cafes and computer shops, lending firms, malls, pawnshops and restaurants.

The proposed ordinance was referred to the committees on children, women, senior citizens, family affairs and social welfare; and laws and ordinances to study it and to conduct public hearings prior to its passage.

If passed, penalties for violators would be a fine of P1,000, P2,000 and P5,000 for the first, second and third offense, respectively.

Uy said he had talked to some gays during Ms. Gay pageants in barangays and town fiestas and asked them about their problem. “So I suggested that there should be separate restrooms for them and they are very happy,” he said.

“We have to fight for the rights of the gays,” he added.

In the public hearing that they would conduct as part of the process in the passage of an ordinance, Uy said he would invite males, females and gays to speak out.

Whether this would be passed or not, he said “at least we tried.”

“Whether we like it or not, they are already there and we cannot do anything anymore. So better do something for them,” Uy said.

“Alkansya” program helps informal sector workers in Pangasinan

By ELSHA MARIE B. SORIANO (MCA/EMBS/PIA-1, Pangasinan)

DAGUPAN CITY, May 21 (PIA) – Some 1, 117 informal sector workers in Central Pangasinan stand to get social protection from a microsavings program dubbed “AlkanSSSya” under the Social Security System’s (SSS) universal coverage.

Marcelino Malicdem, team head of Account Management Section of SSS Dagupan Branch, said the program, which was first conceptualized for tricycle drivers and operators in Las Piñas in 2011, aims to address the concern of workforces from informal sector about being unable to save for their social security.

“It (AlkanSSSya) intends to reach out the self-employed workers, basically, it aims to lessen the burden of our informal sector members from contributing a P330 in one go,” Malicdem said during the Pantongtongan Tayo radio program of the Philippine Information Agency aired over DZMQ Radyo ng Bayan.

He said members can drop in any amount up to P11 daily in their individually named box built in a cabinet until they meet the required minimum monthly contribution.

Likewise, Account Officer Edwin Abad disclosed that contributions of informal sector group will be collected by an SSS account officer at the end of the month under the watch of any representative from the group.

“We are making a collection report that records the amount of their individual boxes and furnish them a receipt of their contributions. If the amount counted exceeds the required contribution, the excess amount will be left in the box to add up for the following month, but if their contribution is insufficient to meet the monthly contribution it is left inside the unit for next month’s collection,” said Abad.

Meanwhile, Account Officer Dindo Fernandez urged all informal sector workers in the province to register for the program to ensure an affordable way to save for their future.

To be one of the AlkanSSSya members, “workforce like vendors, barangay health workers, transport groups and the like must form a group with at least 50 members and make a request for registration to our office,” said Fernandez.

After the application request, SSS will go to them and will conduct an orientation about the benefits they can avail and the savings scheme of the program, Fernandez said.

Members can avail of benefits such as short term benefit and benefits on sickness, maternity, funeral, retirement, disability, funeral and death claims and even loans like one-month loan if they have paid at least 36 contributions, he added.

Pangasinan PDRRMC strengthens disaster-preparedness provincewide

(PNA), CTB/JOHANNE MARGARETTE R. MACOB/RMA

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, May 20 (PNA)--The provincial disaster risk reduction and management council (PDRRMC) is conducting a five-day search and recovery training, and basic self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) diving course as part of its proactive programs to meet the threat of disasters.

Ret. Col. Fernando De Guzman, officer-in-charge and executive officer of the PDRRMC, said the course is geared at training personnel of different local DRRMCs and water search and rescue (WASAR) teams to minimize water-related incidents.

"Before, we were requesting help from the Philippine Coast Guard in case of water disasters. This time we will do it," he said during the opening program on May 19 at the PDRRMC office, Lingayen.

In the same occasion, provincial administrator Rafael Howard Baraan said that many typhoons pass through Pangasinan and that the province is a catch basin of rain and flood waters, thus the need to be further prepared.

"It's good to be prepared and the best thing is to have this capability at the community level," he said.

Meanwhile, Imelda Acosta, assistant regional director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-Region 1 hailed the province's effort in accordance with their agency's proactive thrust on disasters, "prevention, mitigation, and preparedness."

Resource persons from the Philippine Navy and OCD-Region 1 were invited to train the provincial WASAR team and representatives from seven high-risk local government units (LGUs) namely Rosales, Urdaneta City, Bayambang, San Carlos City, San Fabian, Bugallon, and Lingayen since May 19 until 23.

Lectures, demo, and practical exercises focused on SCUBA equipment familiarization, first aid techniques, diving physiques, underwater physiology, medical aspect of diving, dressing the driver, breathing familiarization, underwater communication searches, hand and line pull signal, and physical fitness.

Every now and then, the provincial government of Pangasinan has been conducting seminars and training on disaster preparedness and risk reduction.

Pangasinense karatedo players champion in OSKa sponsored competition

(PNA), LAM/LVM/HMAUSTRIA/RMA

MALASIQUI, Pangasinan, May 19 (PNA)— Pangasinense members of Jev Eagle Hand Aokido karatedo dominated the 3rd Mayor Armando Domantay Sr. Karatedo competition here sponsored by Okinawa Shorin-Ryu Karate-Do Association (OSKA) Shikodan Philippines held last May 17.

Karatedo players from Malasiqui and Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan won the over-all championship and first place respectively, beating the other 200 karatedo players from Antipolo Rizal, Cavite, Bataan, Baguio City, Nueva Ecija and Dagupan City in the two-category competition.

The players from Balanga Bataan won second place while Nueva Ecija team was on third place.

The players competed in the individual kata category (novice, intermediate and advance) and individual kumite (novice and intermediate).

Lawyer Jeremy Escote, president of OSKA Philippines said that such competitions are opportunities for the players to make friends as he clarified that karatedo is not a violent sport as it promotes discipline, cooperation and learning.

“We thank the local government of Malasiqui for supporting this sport. This also beneficial for the community as it helps decrease the tendency of young people to become juvenile delinquents”, Escote said.

He further explained that through the different disciplines of Karatedo, the members mostly are youths and children who are discouraged from indulging in illegal drugs and vices which comes along when they go with bad peers.

Karatedo also promotes preservation of one’s life and other people by defending those in need especially the weak and so it reduces bullying, said Escote.

Meanwhile, Jerry Valdez, president and founder of Jev Karatedo revealed the vision of his school to develop excellent karatedo players who would be part of the Philippine team.

Jev Karatedo now has 80 members in Malasiqui and 30 in Sta. Barbara.

“It only takes a willing student and supporting parents to produce champions in karate”, Valdez said.

Mayor Armando Domantay Sr. encouraged the young people to be involved in different kinds of sports and favors karatedo as he noted that it is less physical compared to basketball.

“They have strict guidelines that prohibit violence or the “below the belt” attacks which is honored by players”, he said.

Boy Scouts laud Pangasinan’s hosting of 6th National Venture Camp

By Venus H. Sarmiento (MCA/VHS/PIA1-Pangasinan)

DAGUPAN CITY, May 18 (PIA) - More than 3,000 Boy Scouts of the Philippines, led by its National President, the country’s Vice-President Jejomar Binay, lauded the province of Pangasinan for its excellent hosting of the 6th National Venture Camp from May 5-10.

In the grand closing ceremonies of the five-day camp held at the scenic Capitol beachfront, scouters from the four BSP sub-camps --North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao -- gave their impressions on the venture camp and on Pangasinan as the host council.

They were one in saying that their experience in Pangasinan was “absolutely amazing” and “the best camp they ever attended so far.”

The scouters lauded the clean, safe and peaceful environment of Pangasinan. Commendable, too, were the 24/7 security, the installation of additional bathrooms, comfort rooms and shallow wells and the warm and hospitable people of Pangasinan, they said.

Vice President Binay expressed his appreciation to the provincial government led by Governor Amado Espino Jr. for giving every possible support to the scouters.

“Thank you for taking pains to work with young people to help make them the best,” Binay said.

He also congratulated the scout leaders, volunteers and Boy Scouts for a job well done.

“I salute every Boy Scout for completing his merit requirements, for earning his badge and for surviving this Camp,” Binay said.

He pointed out three important things in the over-all course of the event - the brilliance of Boy Scouts, the 'heroism’ and ‘heart’ of volunteers and adult leaders, and the success of the event through actions.

“If your actions inspire others to do more, then you are a great leader,” Binay said.

Gov. Espino, in turn, said he need not speak anymore as he has heard all the overwhelming positive comments and testimonials of the scouters and guests about the host province.

“I think I need not speak anymore because you have all heard what they said of their stay here in Pangasinan. Nakakataba ng puso. I hope that when you go back to your home provinces, you will bring with you happy and wonderful memories of your five-day stay here in Pangasinan,” Espino said.

He reiterated his earlier statements that the best experience and training he got was by being a Boy Scout.

“We are overwhelmed of the success of this camp and we are proud to say that here in Pangasinan, boy scouting and girl scouting is very much

alive,” Espino said.

Pangasinan business outlets to sell cheaper school supplies

By Venus H. Sarmiento (MCA/VHS.PIA1-Pangasinan)

DAGUPAN CITY, May 17 (PIA) – With the looming school opening, the Department of Trade and Industry has forged partnership with retailers, supermarkets and malls in Pangasinan to provide school supplies to consumers at reduced prices.

Through the DTI ‘Diskwento and Balik Eskwela’ programs, the buying public could avail of school supplies at marked down prices by as much as 10 percent and special discounted prices, said Provincial Director Peter Mangabat.

Participating stores include CSI Supermarkets, Magic Supermarkets, Robinsons Place Pangasinan, National Bookstore, Nepo Mall Dagupan, Nepo Mart Alaminos, SM City Rosales, CB Mall Urdaneta, Magic Mall Urdaneta, Unitop Supermarket-San Carlos City and Home Ideas Superstore.

“We encourage the public to buy at recognized Diskwento Sale partners for their school needs to avail of the discounts, “ Mangabat said.

The government launched Diskwento sale programs and caravans to help the public avail of school supplies at cheaper prices and consequently help ease the burden of parents in sending their children to school, thus realizing the goal of ‘Education for All.’

DTI holds Diskwento caravan in Pangasinan town

By April Montes (MCA/AMM/PIA-1, Pangasinan)

BALUNGAO, Pangasinan, May 16 (PIA) – Residents in this community availed of basic goods at discounted and affordable prices during the Diskwento Caravan conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and its sponsor groups.

The Diskwento Caravan or roving discount fair rolled out at the municipal gymnasium here last Monday.

Marjury Lorezco, chief trade and industry development specialist of DTI-Pangasinan, said that during the caravan, prime commodities were brought closer to consumers, thus saving them from travel expenses and valuable time.

Participating manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers also offered products at a lower price and provided freebies which benefitted the buying public, said Lorezco.

Partner establishments include National Bookstore, Magic Group of Companies, MDS Gas, MJ Gas Corporation, Home Ideas Group of Companies, Globe Telecom and Addessa Corporation.

The National Food Authority (NFA)-Eastern Pangasinan also put-up its rolling store that immediately sold some 50 cavans of rice.

Mayor Philip Peralta said they are happy and grateful that DTI made the discount caravan possible in Balungao.

Meanwhile, the DTI scheduled a “Balik-Eskwela Diskwento” from May 15 to 31 which will be participated in by various malls and business establishments in the province.

Lorezco encouraged parents and students to take advantage in availing marked down prices of school supplies to be sold in their respective areas.

For local retailers and distributors who are interested to join the Diskwento Project, visit the DTI-Pangasinan office at the 2nd Floor of Star Building in Arellano Street, Dagupan City or contact (075) 515-3183 or 529-6177or E-mail: dtipang@yahoo.com.

Summit on higher education launched

By Dexter A. See

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan— The province will host this week the first International Academic Summit of the Higher Education Institutions (HEI), a meeting of educators from Asian countries, Governor Amado Espino said.

He said the two-day summit that opens today was organized by the International Affairs Office of the Pangasinan State University (PSU) in collaboration with the Southeast Asian Minister of Education Organization and the provincial government.

“The summit convenes representatives from HEIs of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for a comprehensive discussion and sharing of best practices in education, which are necessary in setting standards for educational institutions in the region,” said Dr. Sally Jarin, PSU Director for International Affairs.

The organizers expected about 200 delegates composed of university officials, directors for international linkages, professors and academicians and students. Delegates from Nigeria and India have also confirmed their participation.

A cultural exchange will take place at Sison Auditorium tonight. The Culture and Arts Group of Phranakhon Rajahbat University and delegates from other universities will highlight their distinct cultures and traditions.

Jarin said an international organization of university directors for international affairs and linkages will be formed during the summit to strengthen ties and partnership on academic and cultural exchanges.

Provincial Tourism Officer Malou Elduayan said the cultural fiesta will feature the cultural heritage and artistry of Pangasinan through a series of folk dances, songs and stringed instruments ensemble presentations by the Danggoan Pangasinan Cultural Dance Troupe and Pangasinan Provincial Chorale.

Feature: Balungao hilltop, Pangasinan’s thrill

BY VENUS H. SARMIENTO (MCA/VHS PIA1-Pangasinan)

BALUNGAO, Pangasinan, May 14 (PIA) – Looking for new and ultimate adventure?

Thrill seekers will have the time of their lives at the Balungao Hilltop Adventure in the eastern town of Pangasinan, an extreme nature and sports adventure site developed by the local government of Balungao.

Situated at Mt. Balungao Resort,four kilometers away from the town proper, the extreme hilltop adventure boasts of a zipline experience, All-Terrain Vehicle driving, bungee trampoline, hiking or trail walking, mountain biking and five hot and cold swimming pools.

Less than three years after it was opened to the public in 2011, the new adventure site in Pangasinan has gained fame and has been visited by thousands of local and foreign tourists.

Mayor Philip Peralta saw the need to promote the fourth-class town and planned to explore its tourism potentials.

“The initial attraction in Mt. Balungao is the hot spring. We banked on this natural wonder and transformed the place into an enchanting adventure site,” Peralta said.

Peralta said the resort has been a “good karma” for the people of Balungao as it is now an income generating project and is now subsiding the local government for its other projects and programs particularly on agriculture.

“The income from the resort goes to the coffers of the LGU and the Sangguniang Bayan determines the programs and projects where the budget would be placed,” Peralta said.

Tourism officer Racquel Ceres said the site has a 620- meter long zipline. A longer line, measuring 1.4 kilometers is in its finishing stage and would open soon.

“Our youngest zipline adventurer is a one year old boy accompanied by his dad while the oldest is 80 years old,” Ceres said.

The breathtaking view of Mt. Balungao is a bonus treat once adventurers reach the top and “ fly” over the trees and mountains, she added.

Ceres said safety and security of adventurers come first in the resort. The workers are well-trained on safety precautions and rescue and equipment are thoroughly checked.

Tourists who tried the adventure said the risk is all worth it.

Entrance fee in the resort is pegged at P50 for adults and P25 for children inclusive of the use of swimming pools. The zipline adventure costs P300 and the ATV driving spree can be availed of at P200.

Hikers and mountain bikers will also be accompanied by trained staff.

Groups or teams who wish to stay overnight can do so at the Cabana at P800 per room while cottages and big umbrellas can be rented for P100-P200 only. A function room for teambuilding is also available.

Pangasinan Prov’l. Hospital receives ISO certification

(mvs)

Certification International Philippines (CIP) Managing Director Renato V. Navarette hands over the ISO certification of the Pangasinan Provincial Hospital (PPH) to OIC-Chief of Hospital Policarpio Manuel during the awarding rites during the regular flag raising ceremony last May 12 at the Capitol Plaza in Lingayen. Governor Amado T. Espino, Jr. thanked the certifying body and all Pangasinenses for continually believing in his administration’s policies and programs in enhancing healthcare services and management in the province. The ISO certification is a set of international standards and requirements for the development of a quality management system applied by private corporations and organizations to ensure that the needs and expectations of customers or clients are adequately and consistently met.

P15B worth of investment flowed to Pangasinan in 2013

By Venus H. Sarmiento (MCA/VHS/PIA1Pangasinan)

DAGUPAN CITY, May 12 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry said at least P15 billion in investments entered Pangasinan last year reflecting good economic opportunities.

Peter Mangabat, provincial director of DTI-Pangasinan, said the business registrations last year showed that the bulk of businesses constituting 90 percent was on retailing.

”Promotional activities in Pangasinan helped promote the province which enticed businessmen to invest here,” Mangabat said during the KBP Forum held at the Philippine Information Agency office last week.

Other factors that likely influenced investments here include infrastructure, facilities, conducive environment and local incentives for businessmen, he added.

Mangabat said DTI is advocating entrepreneurship as this would generate income for businessmen and employment to people.

“We want to promote entrepreneurship to people. You just have to be determined, resourceful and daring to risk for the uncertain. Many agencies are ready to help,” Mangabat said.

Meanwhile, Engracio Bailon, head of the Department of Labor and Employment in Central Pangasinan, said the 8.5 percent unemployment rate in Region I is likely to go down with all the investments pouring in and the growing employment opportunities here and abroad.

Pangasinan NSO vows faster transaction with new system

(PNA)

CALASIAO, Pangasinan – The National Statistics Office (NSO) provincial office vowed to serve its clients faster with the implementation of a new system that cuts processing time of requested documents into just 43 minutes per transaction.

Pangasinan provincial statistics officer Dante Pescador said the new system would cut the regular processing time by half as it usually took them 86 minutes to process documents before.

The new system which started just this month provides a more “self-service” approach to clients, he said.

In the new system, there are no more “screeners” or those in charge of checking identification cards and of providing application forms to clients.

With the new system in effect, the clients themselves will just get whichever form they need from a rack provided for the purpose.

After filling out the forms, clients will just have to wait for their assigned number to be called for them to pay and pickup the document/s requested at the cashier and researcher station, he said.

The researcher may conduct up to three levels of search for the documents being asked.

The first level search is where the name of the document owner is encoded, the second level search is done if there are a number of similar names so the birthday is then encoded, and the last level search gets the owner’s maternal name.

“In this way, we will save time and provide faster transaction,” Pescador said.


Day of days in Pangasinan

By Amadís Ma. Guerrero (Philippine Daily Inquirer)

A three-day media tour of selected (and rapidly urbanizing) towns in Pangasinan organized by the provincial tourism office brought a mix of familiar destinations (like the Hundred Islands and Our Lady of Manaoag Shrine) along with some surprises.

Among these was the Balungao Adventure Park at the foothills of dome-shaped Mt. Balungao with its hot and cold springs, zipline, swimming pools, and caves.

Kambing (goat) is one of the top products of the town of Mayor Philipp Peralta so we had an innovative all-goat cuisine consisting of broth, caldereta, sushi, salad and papaitan for lunch.

Mother Mary

At the parish of Our Lady of Manaoag that day, a fiesta was ongoing. There were tiangge (flea markets) and sari-sari (variety) stores all over, with barkers offering free parking to motorists who can have their cars “blessed.”

There were thousands of pilgrims and devotees. Under such circumstances what do you—a practicing but liberal Catholic— do? You say a prayer to Mother Mary and move on.

I remembered our never-to-be-forgotten school hymn, “We pray you keep us, Mary, constantly true. We pray you keep us, Mary, faithful to you!”

We Ateneo high schoolers have been faithful to thee, Mother Mary. In our fashion.

Lisland

Lisland Rainforest Resort in Urdaneta City (inquiries_lisland@yahoo.com) remains as refreshing as ever with its bird sanctuary ambience, undulating swimming pool with mushroom-shaped fountains, and improved accommodations.

I like the way they promote their staff. “Don’t expect robot-like efficiency from our people,” declares the brochure.

“They’re real country folks who love serving others. They didn’t need training to be warm and friendly—they were born that way,” it added.

Guinness World Record

It was an amazing sight—row upon row of barbecue grills spanning the entire length of Avenida Rizal, the main street of Bayambang, which was celebrating its 400th anniversary. And celebrate it did in a spectacular fashion.

The line extended for eight kilometers and there were 8,000 people—men and women clad in the colorful shirts of their barangays— tasked to break the previous Guinness World Record for the longest barbecue grill.

Turkey’s 6.16-km line was the last record holder in 2009. An adjudicator from Guinness was present.

Soon, the signal was given and the flames spread down the line as excitement mounted. And in a matter of minutes the freshwater fish—tilapia, hito (mudfish), dalag and gurami—were cooked and served to the multitude.

And so, the Philippines—courtesy of Bayambang, Pangasinan— now holds the global record for the longest barbecue grill in the world.

The festivities were capped by the Agew ng Pangasinan or Pangasinan Day as the province dubbed its 400th anniversary.

There was a street dancing competition along Lingayen Beach and a parade where different cities and towns outdid one another in showcasing their products via colorful floats.

With that, Pangasinan chalked up another milestone in its long and colorful history.

Pangasinan to host int'l academic summit

(PNA), LAM/LVMICUA/RMAS

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, May 9 (PNA) -- The province of Pangasinan will host the first International Academic Summit, a convergence of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from Southeast Asia and other Asian countries, on May 15-16 at the Sison Auditorium here.

The international academic exchange which seeks to transform HEIs into “global educational institutions” was organized by the International Affairs Office of the Pangasinan State University, in collaboration with the Southeast Asian Minister of Education Organization (SEAMEO) INNOTECH and the provincial government of Pangasinan.

Governor Amado T. Espino Jr. has expressed full-support to the pilot hosting of the international academic exchange in the province, recognizing the significant role of education as “the greatest equalizer of life.”

The governor is expected to deliver a message during the opening of the academic summit on May 15 at the Sison Auditorium.

“The summit convenes representatives from HEIs of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) member countries for a comprehensive academic discussion and sharing of best practices in education – these are necessary in setting standards for educational institutions in the region,” Dr. Sally Jarin, PSU Director for International Affairs, said.

The summit also seeks to become a venue to benchmark the current initiatives of the HEIs on the implementation of academic programs through fostering collaboration and partnership for “global education through internalization” Jarin said.

In a letter to Espino, the PSU administration cited the event as “a way to further bolster tourism in Pangasinan, serving as an avenue for neighboring countries to experience the hospitality and warmth of Pangasinenses which will hopefully give them reasons to come back in the province for business and recreational activities.”

The PSU Director for International Affairs was happy to note that the foreign visitors are very excited to see the Sison Auditorium, Provincial Capitol building and Urduja House, which according to her, put them in awe while browsing on the photos of the renovated buildings in the internet.

Jarin said an international organization of university directors for international affairs and linkages will be formed during the summit to strengthen ties and partnership on academic and cultural exchange among international HEIs.

A cultural exchange will likewise take place with the Cultural Fiesta of the Governor’s Night on May 15 at the Sison Auditorium.

Provincial Tourism Officer Malou Elduayan said the cultural fiesta will feature the cultural heritage and artistry of Pangasinan through a series of folk dance, song and stringed instruments ensemble (rondalla) presentations by the Danggoan Pangasinan Cultural Dance Troupe, Pangasinan Provincial Chorale and some performing arts groups of some campuses of PSU.

The Culture and Arts Group of Phranakhon Rajahbat University as well as delegates from other universities have also prepared intermission numbers highlighting their distinct cultures and traditions.

Plenary sessions on “Best Practices on International Affairs and Linkages” will be led by speakers from the Research and Studies Unit of SEAMEO, Phranakhon Rajabhat University – Center for Education (Thailand), National Pingtung University of Science and Technology – Center for Agricultural Extension (Taiwan), Maejo University – Center for Agriculture (Thailand), Soka University – Center for Humanistic Education (Japan) and Pangasinan State University – Center for Development in Teacher Education.

Delegates from Tanza University in Nigeria and a university in India have also confirmed participation.

The organizers are expecting about 200 delegates -- university officials, university directors for international linkages, professors and academicians and students from the participating HEIs.

The participants, according to Jarin, will pay courtesy call to the Governor on May 13 in the afternoon and will later be toured around the Capitol Plaza. A tour to Hundred Islands in Alaminos City courtesy of the Provincial Tourism Office is also scheduled on the second day of the summit (May 16).

Sports binds Pangasinan media

(MCA/AMM/PIA-1, Pangasinan)

DAGUPAN CITY, May 8 (PIA) – Sports has the power to unite and bring people together, forming new friendships and rekindle old ones.

With this in mind, the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP)-Pangasinan chapter organized a sports festival for media practitioners in the province.

Dubbed as “KBP Summer Sports Saya,” the activity gathers Pangasinan’s legitimate press members to promote unity and camaraderie among media people and to let them unwind from the rigors of their profession.

The event, which kicked-off last month at the Tondaligan Blue Beach here, is open to all legitimate local members of broadcast, print and social media.

“It is nice to see that the media is united,” said Provincial Information Officer Orpheus Velasco who graced the opening ceremonies.

Jay Mendoza, chapter chairman, said “KBP desires to uphold unity and strong relationship among the media members in the province and gives fun experiences through fun and sports game.”

Sports games include basketball for men and women, volleyball, bowling, badminton and swimming. Other events to look forward to are the fun parlor games and cheer dance competition.

Semi-finals and championships will be held on May 10 and 17, 2014, respectively.

Other activities being conducted annually by the KBP-Pangasinan chapter include joining the nationwide tree planting activity of KBP called “broadcastreeing;” staging of seminars on fundamentals of investigative reporting, journalism ethics and broadcast code; and holding the KBP accreditation exam to legitimize unaccredited broadcasters and raise the standards of professionalism in the broadcast industry.

KBP also holds a regular forum at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) office in Dagupan City where government officials and private sector representatives are invited as guests every Thursday for information dissemination.

These efforts of the KBP-Pangasinan chapter ensure that Pangasinenses can expect better service from KBP member stations.

Boy scouts hold camp at Pangasinan

By Dexter A. See, Johanne Margarette Macob

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Boy Scouts of the Philippines’ 6th National Scout Venture Camp at the Capitol Beachfront started Monday with a grand parade of 118 councils along with more than 3,000 participants from all over the country.

Bannering the theme, “Scouting for the environment”, BSP Acting Secretary General Wendel E. Avisado also senior vice president and Pangasinan Gov. Amado T. Espino Jr., BSP regional chairman, led the opening rites joined by campers from different regions.

Organizers said Vice President Jejomar Binay will preside over the closing ceremonies on May 9.

According to Avisado, the event is the first to be held on a beach, requiring additional environment-friendly facilities.

The Scout Venture Camp is held every three years for bonding among senior scouts while honing their leadership skills and crafts including readiness for emergencies amid increasingly devastating calamities.

“We are very happy that the provincial government has really gone way ahead of our expectation,” Avisado said.

Espino said the scouting event showed the province’s readiness as well to hold large-scale conventions.

“We will continue to bid for the hosting of big local, regional, national and international gatherings to make the Filipinos aware that there are scenic tourist destinations in the different parts of the province that could be frequented by foreign and domestic visitors,” he said.

Year-long dredging of shallow rivers in Dagupan to begin

(PNA), FPV/LVMICUA/RMA

DAGUPAN CITY, May 6 (PNA)-- Dredging of the shallow rivers in Dagupan will take more than one year using three dredging machines loaned to the city by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

City Engineer Virginia Rosario, in a press conference called Monday night by Mayor Belen Fernandez, said more than 250,000 cubic meters of silt are set to be recovered from the all-out dredging operations when the three-dredging machines will be working simultaneously.

She said the silt that will be recovered will be deposited in private lots from where the barangay captains can source out their filling materials for areas in their villages that are prone to flooding.

The rivers will be dredged from three to six meters deep so it is easier for flood waters to flow downward to the Lingayen Gulf during the rainy season.

Rosario said that first to be dredged is the shallow Calmay River where a mass of land has now developed in its mid section, before the dredging machines will be shifted to the river mouth separating sitio Sabangan in Bonuan Gueset to Barangay Pugaro.

After that, the Pantal River which is connected to the Sinucalan River in Calasiao and Sta. Barbara towns will be next to be dredged.

"We are lucky that the DPWH sent to us its brand new amphibious excavator dredger called Water Master II, among only five acquired by the DPWH," said Rosario, pointing out that the machine is the most modern equipment of DPWH costing P37.5 million.

This modern dredging machine that arrived May 2 joined two other dredging machines of the DPWH that are already in Dagupan since early 2013 but were not harnessed as they needed repairs.

Now, these machines are already repaired, said Rosario who sat down with officials of DPWH to discuss the start of the dredging operation slated sometime this week.

Mayor Fernandez thanked Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II and Pangasinan Fourth District Congressman Gina de Venecia for facilitating the deployment of brand new dredging machine of DPWH to the city.

She said the city government will not spend much for the dredging operation as it will answer the cost of dredging just for the first month while the rest of the cost will be shouldered by DPWH.

City Engineer Rosario said that the DPWH will also help the city dredge 18 separate creeks that are now also very shallow.

1,000 Dagupan youth get vocational scholarships

By April Montes (MCA/AMM/PIA-1, Pangasinan with reports from CIO)

DAGUPAN CITY, May 5(PIA) – Some 1, 000 Dagupeño youth received scholarships for vocational courses from the city government, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Pangasinan Association of Private Technical Vocational Institutions (PAPTVI).

Leah Aquino, officer-in-charge of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), said her office chose the beneficiaries from the rank of the “poorest of the poor” in order to give them a chance to have a better life and better future.

“The beneficiaries are mostly members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), small fisherfolks and those who really belong to the poorest sector,” Aquino said.

TESDA Provincial Director Manuel Wong said the scholars can choose any vocational course in all TESDA-accredited schools in Dagupan City where they will enjoy free tuition fee, training fee and assessment fee.

Mayor Belen Fernandez thanked TESDA and PAPTVI for supporting the city government’s “Building the Future” Program, pointing out that providing education and livelihood are among the top priorities of the present administration.

“I would like to thank our President (Benigno Aquino III), TESDA and PAPTVI for their overwhelming support to our program (on education),” Fernandez said.

She encouraged the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity granted to them to acquire all the knowledge and skills as these are keys for them to get decent jobs and improved life.

In a message, Fernandez shared her personal experience as a businesswoman where her family’s grocery store started with a small store, but through perseverance and hard work, it grew into chains of malls and department stores.

Petron Beach Volleyball: Pangasinan reaches semis

(The Philippine Star)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, Philippines – Defending champion Melanie Carrera and former Batang Pinoy standout Juvelyn Castillo of Team Pangasinan weathered the challenge put up by La Salle-Dasmariñas spikers Bea Canillas and Jennifer Zarate, 21-17, to earn a spot in the semifinal round in the second leg of the 2014 Petron Ladies’ Beach Volleyball Tournament at the sand courts of the provincial capitol grounds here.

Carrera and Castillo, who finished the elimination round with three wins and a loss, ended up in second spot behind University of the East alumnae spikers Abigail Escandor and Gina Alanguilan, who later handed the two Pangasinense spikers their only loss in Group A following a 21-16 triumph.

Castillo, a member of the girls’ volleyball team which won the 2012 Batang Pinoy indoor title, and Carrera set up a semifinal showdown with Philippine Merchant Marine School teammates Nao Sagawa and Ana Nicole Banas, who topped their Group B assignment on a better tiebreak record over La Salle-Dasmariñas’ Aileen Abuel and Regina Tungol.

Abuel, who now works as fitness specialist, and Tungol, now a law student at San Beda College, assured themselves of a semifinal slot against UE’s Escandor and Alanguilan, after they bounced back from a 16-21 loss to Sagawa and Banas on the second day. Charging past a 19-all deadlock, Tungol and Abuel also turned back University of Luzon’s Marife Diaz and Mary Joy Marcellones, 21-19.

In taking second place, Carrera, who works at the engineering office of the Pangasinan Provincial Government, and Castillo, an incoming hospitality management sophomore at PSU, banked on several gutsy plays to earn their last three points against La Salle-Dasma’s Canillas and Zarate.

Carrera took charge at the front as they broke an 18-all deadlock with her drop shots and jump spikes to score the game’s last three points.

“My partner was tense but we kept our focus,” said Carrera, who is seeking her second straight crown after she and Cassandra Lleda took the title last year.

UE’s Escandor, now a shipping management student at the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, and Alanguilan, who is taking a break from her job as a recreation specialist from Jeddah, endured the hot midday sun as they kept PMMS-2’s Clarisse Banares and Jaynilyn Banares, 21-12, at bay.

In their fight for the top Group A seat with Carrera and Castillo, Escandor hit three points on a drop shot and an ace, sending UE alumnae ahead on a 7-3 lead.

Another ace from Escandor saw the Amazons erecting a 13-8 edge. She came off with another drop shot as they pulled away by six, 19-13.

The two-day spikefest was held during the province’s annual celebration of the Pista’y Dayat Festival, which commemorates the bountiful harvest and abundant fishing from the sea.

The tournament is also backed by Mikasa balls, the provincial government of Pangasinan and Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil.

Lady Mariners steal spotlight

(MST Sports)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—Collegiate standout Ana Nicole Banas and Japanese-Filipina Nao Sagawa went strong with their serves and came away with a 21-11 subduing of their Dagupan-based foes Marife Diaz and Mary Joy Marcellones on a cloudy and rainy Thursday afternoon.

Defending second-leg winner Melanie Carrera and new partner Juvelyn Castillo made their presence felt along with La Salle-Dasmarinas bets Bea Canillas and Jennifer Zarate, La Salle-Dasmarinas alumni spikers Aileen Abuel and Regina Tungol, and University of the East alumni belles Abigail Escandor and Gina Alanguilan.

The 18-year-old Philippine Merchant Marine School teammates finally found their range after Sagawa’s ace tied the contest for the last time at 9-all in this tournament supported by the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, the office of Cong. Leopoldo Bataoil (second district) and Mikasa Balls.

Sagawa scored two more aces during an 8-0 run which gave the Lady Mariners a comfortable 17-9 lead over their University of Luzon foes in the ensuing play of this spikefest held during the province’s annual celebration of the Pista’y Dayat Festival, which commemorates the bountiful harvest and abundant fishing from the sea.

“Hindi namin nakita iyung laro nila bago nagsimula ang tournament, kaya nilakasan namin ang serves at binuhos lahat sa atake,” said Banas, an incoming customs administration sophomore.

Carrera and Castillo whipped Team Baguio’s Xian Tsuchiya and Shirley Balantac, 21-15, with Carrera’s power spikes quickly putting them ahead at 6-1. Carrera and Castillo were slightly ahead, 15-14, when they pounced on three reception errors that allowed them to take control of the game.

La Salle-Dasma’s Canillas and Zarate weathered a late comeback to put away PMMS-2’s Clarisse Cabrera and Jaynilyn Banares, 21-19. A placement shot to the left side from Canillas moved the DLSU-D Lady Patriots close to match point, 20-16. But errors in the next play allowed Cabrera and Banares to catch up, 19-20, before the Lady Patriots were able to seal the win.

Abuel and Tungol, formerly from La Salle-Dasma, relied on their vast experience to prevail over Lingayen bets Melva Basilio and Marie Dominic Ventayen, 21-11.

UE’s Escandor and Alanguilan later kept Canillas and Zarate from posting their second straight win in Group A with their 21-17 triumph. Alanguilan and Escandor took control following a 6-all tie and they grabbed an 11-06 edge off the former’s drop shot and ace. They then took a 17-9 advantage off Alanguilan’s jump spike.

100 Islands National Park tourist arrivals surge 66% to 23,000 in April '14

By Leonardo V. Micua [(PNA), CTB/LVM/RMA]

ALAMINOS CITY, May 2 (PNA)--The Hundred Islands National Park (HINP) posted 66 percent increase in tourist arrival from January to April this year as compared to the first four months of last year.

Mayor Jesus Celeste said the increase in tourist arrivals in Pangasinan's number one tourist spot is boosting the economy of the city and income of its people.

He said last Holy week alone, from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday, some 23,000 tourists had arrived as compared to 11,000 for the same period last year.

The city government, which is now administering the Hundred Islands, continues to improve the facilities of the place to ensure the safety and comfort of the visitors.

Celeste said a Zip Line that connects one island to another is now being constructed and set to be finished in two months to ensure an additional activity for tourists visiting the Hundred Islands.

At the same time, Celeste said that the people of Alaminos City are still praying that the Alaminos Airport, which was started during the time of his predecessor will be continued by the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC).

He said they know that more tourists and visitors would come to the Hundred Islands if it has an airport that will link them to Manila, other parts of the Philippines and the world.

Pangasinan job seekers line up for Bangus Festival mega jobs fair

By Elsha Marie B. Soriano (MCA/EMBS/PIA-1, Pangasinan)

DAGUPAN CITY, May 1 (PIA) – Hundreds of jobseekers in Pangasinan lined up for the job matching and placement fair dubbed “Building the Future: Bangus Festival Mega Job Fair” held on Friday at the CSI City Mall here.

The activity, which was joint project of the Dagupan City Government and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Central Pangasinan, gathered more than 40 employers that provided more than 11, 000 job opportunities closer to the group of enthusiastic job seekers.

Engracio Bailon, chief of DOLE-Central Pangasinan said, “The activity, which was organized with the support of the city government headed by Mayor Belen Fernandez, aimed to provide job opportunities to unemployed Pangasinenses, especially fresh graduates who were aspiring to work locally or abroad.”

He said the coordination with local employers from the Pampanga, Baguio City, Subic and other parts of economic zone in the country made 1, 689 vacancies for overseas and 10, 261 vacancies for local available for job seekers in Pangasinan.

Meanwhile, the Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) provided the applicants with social welfare services, Bailon said.

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