Quezon City News September 2015

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Quezon City - Archived News
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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.

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.

DENR- EMB holds annual Metro Manila forum for ‘estero’ partners

(DENR/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 30 (PIA)--Hundreds of barangay officials, community leaders, representatives from national and local governments, academe, civil society and private sector partners gathered to share experiences and discuss plans on the rehabilitation of Metro Manila’s waterways.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) led the 2015 Metro Manila Adopt-an-Estero Partners Forum held at the Sulo Riviera Hotel in Quezon City on September 29-30, 2015.

Since 2011, the DENR-EMB has been convening partners from all over Metro Manila to continuously engage them in the clean-up and rehabilitation of the adopted esteros in Metro Manila.

According to DENR Assistant Secretary, and Concurrent Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Director Juan Miguel there are about 346 water bodies being adopted nationwide, of which 153 water bodies have shown improvements either in their Dissolved Oxygen and Biochemical Oxygen Demand levels.

“Both of these parameters being monitored by the EMB are very essential in maintaining the quality of our waters and sustaining aquatic life,” Miguel added.

The forum seeks to assess the multi-stakeholder program of the previous year and to firm up their action plans for the coming year.

Under the Adopt-an-Estero/Water Body Program, private sector partners undertake environmental activities aimed at improving the quality of the esteros they adopted.

These activities may include community mobilization, dredging of the creeks, regular clean-up drive, training and seminars, information and education campaigns, and livelihood programs.

Topics for the two-day forum include the Status Report of the Adopted Water Bodies in Metro Manila, and nationally, which will give an overview of the quality of water in our esteros; presentations of promising initiatives from various private sector and local government unit partners; and programs relating to estero rehabilitation by selected national government agencies such as the Department of Interior and Local Governments, the Department of Public Works and Highways, Laguna Lake Development Authority, Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission, Metro Manila Development Authority and the Manila Bay Coordinating Office of DENR.

There will also be presentations about “Effectively Engaging Communities” from University of the Philippines- Diliman, and “Livelihood Enterprises,’ from the Villar Foundation.

Currently, there are more than 365 agreements signed between DENR- EMB and private sector partners all over the country. The Adopt-an-Estero Program is one of the priority programs of the DENR and a key strategy to address the continuing mandamus of the Supreme Court to several government agencies to clean-up Manila Bay and its tributaries.

EcoWaste lauds QC Council for passage of 2 environmental, health measures

(PNA), JBP/PR/EBP

MANILA, Sept 29 (PNA) -- The EcoWaste Coalition, an environmental and health watchdog group, lauded the Quezon City Council for adopting two well-timed measures that will protect the public from hazardous products and wastes.

"We give the Quezon City Council two thumbs up for taking proactive steps to prevent oxalic acid poisoning injuries and deaths, as well as prevent foreign garbage disposal in Payatas such as those that were illegally shipped to our ports from Canada," said Thony Dizon, EcoWaste Coalition's Project Protect coordinator.

On Monday, the Council approved on third and final reading City Ordinance 19CC-496 "prohibiting the sale of oxalic powder in all sari-sari stores and other establishments located within the territorial jurisdiction of Quezon City.”

Oxalic acid, a poisonous bleaching and cleaning agent sold in unlabeled repacked sachets, has been linked to the death of milk tea shop owner William Abrigo and customer Suzaine Dagohoy last April, as well as the death of Jose Maria and Juliet Escano last July.

Introduced by Councilor Dorothy Delarmente and co-introduced by 25 councilors, the ordinance sets a fine of PHP5,000 or imprisonment not exceeding three months to violators, as well as the cancellation of business permit if the violator is a business entity registered withthe government of Quezon City.

The Council also confirmed on third and final reading Resolution 19CC-1131 "expressing strong disapproval against any plan to dispose of foreign waste at the Payatas landfill in QC."

The resolution, also introduced by Delarmente and co-introduced by 26 councilors, was a preemptive response to thwart the possible disposal of the illegal hazardous garbage shipments from Canada.

"The Quezon City Council finds the dumping of foreign waste into our country as totally inexcusable and unacceptable and demands that such unethical and unlawful act be brought to a halt," the resolution stated.

The EcoWaste Coalition, which actively took part in related public hearings convened by the QC Council Committees on Environment and Health, had earlier commended the enactment of City Ordinance 19CC-311.

The said ordinance prohibits the sale of silver jewelry cleaners containing cyanide and other toxic substances in all silver jewelry shops, street and sidewalk vendors and other retailers operating within Quezon City.

DA declares 10 new PHL rabies-free zones

By Cielito M. Reganit [(PNA), RMA/CMR]

MANILA, Sept. 28 (PNA) – As the world celebrates World Rabies Day, 10 new zones in the Philippines were declared rabies-free by the Department of Agriculture in simple ceremonies held at the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) Compound in Quezon City.

The newly-declared rabies-free zones were the municipalities of Tingloy in Batangas; Agutaya and Balabac in Palawan; as well as the municipalities of Basilisa, Cagdianao, Dinagat, Libjo, Loreto, San Jose and Tubajon in the island province of Dinagat.

They joined 25 other municipalities that were previously declared rabies-free by the DA and the Department of Health (DOH), bringing the total number of rabies-free zones in the country to 35.

Last October, 2014, declared rabies-free were the municipalities of Alabat and Perez in Quezon; Bucas Grande Island and Socorro in Surigao del Norte; and the municipalities of Linapacan, Kalayaan, Cagayancillo, Magsaysay, Araceli and Cuyo in Palawan.

Also included are the island province of Siquijor; Batanes; Apo Island, Dauin in Negros Oriental; Malapascua Island in Cebu; Camotes Island in Cebu; Guimaras; Olympia Island and Bais City in Negros Oriental; Culion, Palawan; Coron, Palawan; Busuanga, Palawan; Boracay Island and Malay municipality in Aklan.

Agriculture Assistant Secretary Davinio Catbagan said that DA and the DOH were actively cooperating to achieve a rabies-free Philippines by 2020.

“The robust cooperation between the DA and the DOH, along with the strong support from local government units has made eliminating rabies in our country highly achievable,” he said.

“As we celebrate World Rabies Day, the DA re-affirms its commitment in the united effort against rabies,” Catbagan said.

Rabies is a zoonotic disease with almost 100 percent case fatality rate both in animals and humans.

It is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal.

Infection occurs primarily via bite wounds, or infected saliva entering an open cut or wound or mucous membrane, such as those in the mouth, nasal cavity or eyes.

According to the Agriculture official, rabies remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in the country, responsible for the deaths of 200 to 300 Filipinos per year.

In 2013, 98 percent of animal rabies cases in the Philippines occurred in dogs, with 1.8 percent in cats, and 0.2 percent in goat. There are no reported rabies cases in wild animals.

According to the DOH, most of the victims were children in depressed areas.

Globally, around 50,000-70,000 people die of rabies every year.

“Rabies is 99.9 percent fatal but is 100 percent preventable. Vaccination is the most effective means to eradicate rabies in animals. Thus, we have undertaken the task of vaccinating 9 million out of the 10 million estimated dogs in the country by the first quarter of 2016,”

Around Php 110 million has been allocated for this purpose - with Php 69.5 million coming from the DOH and another Php 40 million from the DA – in May, 2014.

Catbagan said that the amount was enough to procure 9 million doses of anti-rabies vaccine, with the last batch coming early 2016.

On the other hand, DOH National Rabies Prevention and Control Committee program manager Dr. Raffy Deray said that preventing rabies from spreading to humans was the most economically effective way of dealing with the scourge.

He said that a complete dose of anti-rabies vaccines costs between Php 40,000 and Php 50,000 per patient infected with rabies.

“Fortunately, there are now vaccines that can prevent rabies in humans. It is very important to immediately see a doctor for rabies shots after getting bitten,” Deray said.

He advised bite victims to wash their wound with soap and water for at least 10 minutes and to visit any of the government’s 424 animal bite treatment centers.

In the meantime, Agriculture Undersecretary Jose Reaño said that fighting rabies was a continuous war and should be fought through the cooperation of all.

“We must remain vigilant. The hardest challenge is to sustain the rabies-free status of declared zones. The DA will continue its education and information drives without letup,” he said.

“We have already won several battles, but the war remains to be won. All stakeholders must remain united to win the war against rabies by 2020,” Reaño said.

DENR urges public to report illegal construction of deep wells in Metro Manila

(DENR/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 27 (PIA)—Environment Secretary Ramon Paje urged the public to report cases of unauthorized extraction of water from deep wells as it causes groundwater depletion in Metro Manila and nearby areas.

The appeal was made in anticipation a rise in the construction of illegal deep wells due to the El Niño-spawned dry spell.

Paje said groundwater extraction is strictly prohibited throughout Metro Manila and certain parts of Bulacan and Cavite provinces, and extraction in other areas in the country are regulated by the National Water Resources Board (NWRB).

The NWRB has imposed a total ban on deep water drilling in Metro Manila Guiguinto,Bocaue, Marilao, and Meycauayan in Bulacan and also Dasmariñas in Cavite.

Paje also serves as the chairman of the NWRB, which coordinates and regulates all water-related activities in the country that have impact on the physical environment and the economy.

Paje had already instructed all DENR and field offices nationwide to be ready to receive inquiries and complaints about illegal deep wells and coordinate with concerned local government units and district offices of the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) for proper action.

Paje said the public can report illegal deep well constructions through the following NWRB hotlines: (02) 928-2365 and (02) 920-2641.

He assured that all reports referred to the DENR and NWRB will be treated with utmost confidentiality.

A field study conducted by the Consultants for Engineering and Science and Technology (CEST) identified the groundwater levels at the said areas as "critical.” The study was commissioned by the NWRB in 2004.

The study revealed that groundwater extraction was a major reason why floods take longer to subside in the cities of Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela.

It also noted that severe water extraction from groundwater is also causing seawater intrusion into groundwater as well as land subsidence, which could damage buildings, bridges and highways due to sudden changes in ground elevation.

HPG gets vitamin boost from FERN-C

(Manila Bulletin)

A top executive based in Metro Manila cites the Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) for its deft handling of the daily vehicular traffic congestion in Metro Manila.

Tommanny Tan, president and chief executive officer of FERN, Inc., said that the PNP-HPG has proven its mettle in improving traffic congestion along Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) after several days.

“Highway Patrol Group, Subok Na!”, Tan cheered as he turned over 3,500 boxes of FERN-C vitamin C supplement to HPG Director Chief Superintendent Arnold Gunnacao at Camp Crame, Quezon City recently.

Like FERN’s initiative, donations continue to pour in for the now popular traffic unit as more individuals share the sentiment expressed by Tan and acknowledge HPG’s efforts to fix the traffic problems, especially along EDSA.

The HPG’s stressful workload of de-clogging the traffic jams while exposed to the elements prompted private firms to donate water jugs, sunblock lotions, soaps, shirts and other items.

Witnessing the efforts done by these public servants, FERN, Inc. donated premium vitamin C, FERN-C — to give the public servants added immunity and increased resistance as they go about their daily work of alleviating traffic in this densely populated metropolis of 12 million people.

Tan said that their company is grateful for HPG’s efforts to improve the travel time and for enforcing discipline among drivers and commuters, “They did an excellent job in helping improve the traffic situation in the Metro.”

FERN-C, a premium non-acidic vitamin C brand, is available in leading drugstores, convenience stores and groceries nationwide.

Read more at http://www.mb.com.ph/hpg-gets-vitamin-boost-from-fern-c/#6SikcIv6XLA0xq0M.99

DSWD extends non-monetary reparations for human rights abuse victims

(DSWD/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 25 (PIA)--The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided non-monetary reparations to victims of human rights abuses during the Martial law regime.

The provision of such assistance is mandated by Republic Act 10368 otherwise known as “Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013”. Under this law, the government has the moral obligation to provide reparation to the victims as part of their right to obtain justice.

To operationalize the provision of the non-monetary reparation, the DSWD, Department of Health, Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and the Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board (HRVCB) signed the memorandum of agreement on September 21 at the Balay Kalinaw in UP DIliman. September 21 is the anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines.

Under the agreement, DSWD shall develop a comprehensive psychosocial services and rehabilitation program for victims/survivors of human rights abuses. These include counseling, livelihood, educational, and financial assistance, among others.

The Department will also initiate and coordinate community-appropriate activities with other government agencies towards community healing and reconciliation that integrates lessons from martial law such as respect for democratic processes.

“It is high time that we recognize the sacrifices of the victims of human rights abuses. They are heroes in their own right,” DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman said.

DSWD is among the five government agencies tasked to provide non-monetary reparation to victims of human rights abuses during the Martial Law regime. The others are the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education, Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

QC to open more routes to ease traffic

(PNA), LGI/QC-PAISO-PR/LSJ

MANILA, Sept. 24 (PNA) -- The Quezon City government will augment alternative routes through additional Mabuhay lanes to help relieve traffic in the metro’s main thoroughfares.

In a statement issued Thursday by Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) head Elmo San Diego, the proposed additional Mabuhay lanes shall be opened up from Edsa to Mandaluyong City/Makati City; North Luzon Expressway to Marikina/Makati and San Juan City; San Juan/Mandaluyong to Quezon City and Marikina/Pasig City to Quezon City.

San Diego said that he had submitted the proposal to QC Mayor Herbert Bautista.

Under the proposal, he said, the city shall open up West Avenue for private motorists coming from Edsa going to Mandaluyong City/Makati City while Mindanao Avenue shall be utilized as alternate route by private vehicle owners coming from NLEX to Marikina/Makati and San Juan.

To date, there are about seven QC routes being used as Mabuhay lanes.

Meanwhile, to make sure that secondary roads remain open, San Diego said the city government will no longer allow road closures especially during wakes, karaoke sessions and for livelihood activities and programs of the barangays.

“It is imperative that we clear all city side streets and secondary roads of any form of obstructions to ensure smooth traffic flow especially along areas which can be used as alternate routes,” he said.

He also assured that adequate traffic personnel will be deployed by the DPOS to ensure smooth traffic flow, especially in various choke-points identified by authorities.

Their deployment on extended hours will be on Roosevelt Road, Kaingin Road, SM North Edsa, Timog, Kamuning, Aurora Boulevard, Boni Serrano and Quezon Avenue.

He further said that plans are also underway for the hiring of additional 100 traffic enforcers to be deployed in the night shift, which is from 6 p.m. up to midnight.

San Diego was deputized by Mayor Bautista to lead a task group created to oversee the city’s street clearing operations.

The task group, formed by virtue of an executive order, has been mandated to strictly implement the provisions of Ordinance SP 2068 which prohibits, among others, the occupation or construction of any structure or shanties in any portion of streets, alleys, sidewalks, open spaces and other public places; apprehension of colorum public utility vehicles and tricycles; removal of illegal terminals, illegal markets and vending sites; obstruction of pedestrian paths and sidewalks and easements.

PNP receives 200 new motorbikes from PSSLAI

(PNP/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 22 (PIA) – The Philippine National Police (PNP) yesterday received some 200 new motorbikes from the Public Safety Savings and Loan Association, Inc. (PSSLAI).

“This is an expression of the PSSLAI’s responsiveness to needs of PNP, as former police officers, and a recognition of the sacrifices of our policemen, especially those serving at the frontlines,” PNP chief Director General Ricardo C. Marquez said.

Marquez joined Interior and Local Government Secretary Mel Senen S. Sarmiento in receiving the Php26 million-worth of donation from PSSLAI, represented by its Acting Chairman Retired Police Director Lucas M. Managuelod.

The new motorbikes, with helmets and jackets, will further boost the mobility of patrollers in NCRPO’s five districts and Regional Public Safety Battalions (RPSB).

The PNP chief expressed his gratitude to PSSLAI and assured them of better performance through intensified implementation of patrolling in the National Capital Region.

Patrolling through Oplan Lambat-Sibat is the PNP’s rallying weapon against criminality that brought impressive results with the help of police force and support of different stakeholders.

Aside from the new motorbikes, PSSLAI also donated over Php2.1 million-worth of financial assistance for the renovation of the 2nd floor of Kiangan Hall located in Camp Crame. Likewise, over Php 500 thousand-worth of office equipment were also donated for the refurbished hall.

DENR urges public to avoid using products with ozone-depleting substances

(DENR/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 21 (PIA)--The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is urging the public to avoid using products with ozone-depleting substances (ODS) to help protect the ozone layer.

Examples of ODS are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, carbon tetrachloride, methyl chloroform, methyl bromide, and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

These chemicals are commonly found in aerosol products, foams and fire extinguishers, and are used as refrigerants and in air-conditioning and cooling equipment.

Assistant Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna, and concurrent head of DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau, explained that under the Montreal Protocol, parties commit to phase out ODS according to specific time schedules.

As a result, the parties – including the Philippines – have so far collectively phased out 98 percent of the ODS except HCFCs, which are the remaining ODS group that is being eliminated, Cuna added.

According to a 2014 study commissioned by the United Nations, the ozone layer is showing early signs of thickening after years of depletion and that the ozone hole appearing annually over Antartica had also stopped growing bigger every year.

UN scientists claimed the recovery was entirely due to political determination to phase out the man-made greenhouse gases destroying the ozone.

Cuna said that the recovering ozone layer still needs protection especially amid concerns about the potential alternatives to HCFCs.

He said the most common alternatives to HCFCs are hydroflourocarbons or HFCs that have been determined to be potent greenhouse gases.

“The parties to the Montreal Protocol are presently cooperating with experts, industry and other sectors to evaluate these alternatives and identify those that would have the most climate benefits and the least toxicity and flammability characteristics for adoption by industry and other end-users,” Cuna explained.

QC adopts program for rebel returnees

By IZA IGLESIAS 8:51 pm

Mayor Herbert Bautista of Quezon City has signed an executive order to implement the city’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) that will encourage rebels in the city to return to the folds of law. During a meeting with members of the peace and order council at Camp Karingal, Quezon City, Department of the Interior and Local Government-QC Field Office head Director Juan Jovian Ingeniero revealed that a workshop for the implementation of CLIP is underway. The mayor’s executive order will adopt CLIP, a program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, for rebel returnees. With that, Quezon City will become the latest city in Metro Manila to adopt CLIP.

IRR for Philippine Fisheries Code ready for signing

(DA)

QUEZON CITY, Sep. 19 -- The Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, as amended by Republic Act 10654, is now ready for signing, less than six months since the start of its drafting, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala is expected to sign the IRR any time before September 24, the last day of the six-month period which the law set for the promulgation of the IRR.

During a meeting on September 16, the drafting committee finalized the provisions included in the IRR that formally capped the drafting process.

To fully implement the Amended Fisheries Code, the IRR lays down the guidelines on the enforcement of several fisheries conservation measures. It covers the specific procedures on how to impose the penalties to fishers who committed illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities.

NFA spearheads 2015 Grains Industry Week celebration

(PNA), CTB/PR/RSM

MANILA, Sept. 18 (PNA) -- The National Food Authority (NFA) has lined up various activities during this year’s celebration of the Grains Industry Week, from September 21-24, 2015, at the agency’s compound along Visayas Avenue in Quezon City. This year’s theme is “Seguridad sa Pagkain, Tungkulin Natin” and the week-long activities will involve NFA stakeholders to showcase their role and significance in the food security value chain.

A major highlight of the week-long celebration is the Trade Fair and Exhibits that will be opened to the public. There will be 15 booths for NFA stakeholders from the regions across the country that will feature their own food and agricultural products for display and for sale to the public. Rice agencies and institutions, and agencies under the Office of the Presidential Assistant on Food Security and Agricultural Modernization (OPAFSAM) will also display their products and services in the exhibits.

There will also be a Grains Post-Harvest Machineries and Equipment Exhibit that will feature the latest technologies in farm machinery and equipment. This will be participated in by grains businessmen, particularly suppliers of equipment and machineries, and millers.

A Photo Exhibit shall feature the NFA’s history and current activities and reforms being undertaken.

The event shall also serve as launching pad for the NFA’s Food Guardians campaign. The campaign aims to solicit one million volunteers to be Food Guardians of the 100 million Filipino population. Sign up booths shall be made available at the NFA Visayas compound and all NFA offices nationwide for this purpose. Volunteers shall have a selfie taken with the fansign: I am a FOOD GUARDIAN #1FOR100iNFAntry to be posted on the NFA facebook page (www.facebook.com/foodguardians). Being a Food Guardian means helping the NFA make rice accessible, available, affordable, and safe for the public.

Other activities include: awards for NFA’s best stakeholders, Oath Taking and signing of the Pledge of Commitment of Food Guardians, dialogue with stakeholders to be led by OPAFSAM head, Sec. Francis ‘Kiko’ Pangilinan, and Administrator Renan B. Dalisay, a feeding program to be conducted by the NFA-NCR office, the simultaneous lighting of the NFA Signage nationwide, inauguration of the NFA Grains Library, stakeholders’ forums and seminars, and sports activities.

Throughout the week, a designated NFA warehouse across the country shall be opened to the public to communicate to stakeholders, the public, and the media the concept and importance of buffer stocking. Visitors will be briefed on NFA’s mandate of food security, focusing on the particular area’s consumption requirement and stock inventory. Photos may be taken inside the warehouse with the piles of rice as backdrop and uploaded in personal social media accounts with the hashtag #ingatyamanngpagkaingpilipino #nfaopenwarehouse.

A closing program on September 24 shall be highlighted by the awarding and recognition of outstanding NFA employees.

PVAO to conduct Health and Wellness Fair for veterans, spouses

(PNA), FFC/PFN

MANILA, Sept. 17 (PNA) --- The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) will sponsor a Health and Wellness Fair for veterans and surviving spouses Friday at the PVAO compound, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

The event has a theme of "Alay Kalinga at Paglilingkod: Health and Wellness Fair," PVAO administrator Ernesto Carolina.

He said PVAO will also provide ambulatory devices and gift packs to 150 pre-determined pensioners who are members of the Philippine Association of War Widows, Parents and Orphans (PAWWPO) and Philippine Association of Soldiers’ Widows, Parents and Orphans (PAWSPO).

Among the free health services to be offered are physical and medical examination, eye check-up and eye glasses, Uric Acid and Cholesterol Screening, FBS/ABI Screening, and ECG Screening.

PVAO will also put up various wellness stations that will treat its pensioners to free back massage, haircut, manicure and pedicure, facial cleansing, skin consultation and analysis, among others.

Lectures on health and wellness will also be conducted. There will also be zumba sessions from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Apart from the health and wellness activities, the Legal Affairs Division will also have a Legal Assistance Desk to offer their free legal advice to pensioners regarding their transactions with PVAO.

Similarly, the Gender and Development Secretariat and Veterans Affairs and Management Division will set up a GAD Help Desk for Women.

The Health and Wellness Fair is only one of PVAO’s efforts to remember our veterans who sacrificed their life for the nation and to make them feel taken care of even in simple ways.

LTFRB launches hotline '1342', urges commuters to report erring PUV drivers

(PNA), SCS/QC PAISO-PR/LSJ

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 16 (PIA)—The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) launched a new 24/7 hot line that the public can use to report erring public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers.

Chairman Winston Ginez said LTFRB hotline number “1342”was activated to address concerns on road safety, provide assistance on pending applications, provide information on services rendered by the Board, and answer queries on application requirements as well as clarify existing and proposed policies of the Board.

Ginez said callers using PLDT lines and those using Smart, Talk ‘n Text, and Sun lines within and outside Metro Manila need to dial "1342", while postpaid Globe/TM callers within and outside Metro Manila need to dial "1342". Prepaid Globe/TM callers and all Globe lines within and outside Metro Manila need to dial "(02) 1342".

He also said that a text hotline will work the same way but with the added feature of being able to send photos and videos of incident reports and the like through the messaging app Viber at 0917-550-1342 for Globe and TM subscribers or 0998-550-1342 for Smart, Talk ‘n Text and Sun users.

The LTFRB will issue a Memorandum Circular that will be distributed to all registered PUV operators nationwide to order them to change the current numbers posted on their authorized public vehicles after due consultation with transport operators and commuter organizations.

Ginez said that the Board has tapped the business process outsourcing (BPO) company Dynamic Outsourcing Solutions 1 Inc. (DOS-1) to provide call center agents who will act on calls and texts received from the public.

He said that after receiving calls and classifying them, the agents will coordinate and forward the data received to LTFRB's Public Assistance and Complaint Desk personnel.

The LTFRB chief said the Board is also planning to impose a fine of P5,000 on PUV operators if they fail to comply with the order of the Board or fail to file an answer versus a complaint filed against them. (LTFRB/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

Eye Bank Foundation opens art exhibition featuring 'sight- giving at the end of life’s journey on earth'

By Leilani S. Junio [(PNA), SCS/LSJ]

MANILA, Sept. 15 (PNA) -- The Eye Bank Foundation of the Philippines (EBFP) opened officially on Monday afternoon at the Gateway Mall in Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City a month-long exhibition of the best artworks entered in its nationwide poster-making contest.

The opening of the exhibit was highlighted by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Dr. Minguita Padilla, president and CEO of the EBFP, as part of the celebration of its 20th anniversary this coming October.

Dr. Padilla was joined by EBFP members and artist advocates such as Dr. Cesca Roa, Manuel Ocampo, Noel Nieva and Mike Maglipon in featuring the artistic creations of the contestants presented in various techniques.

Through the exhibits, the viewers can see and explore the message that each painting tries to communicate, especially on the call for supporting the cornea or eye donation mission and vision of the foundation.

The various creations were inspired under the theme of the poster-making contest, “A journey’s end, a gift of hope, a new beginning” which calls for everyone "to think of doing a worthy cause to allow others to continue living after dying."

The winning entries will be awarded with corresponding prizes at the culmination of the activity on Oct. 16.

Acceptance of entries was conducted from March 17 until Aug. 31.

In her speech, Dr. Padilla said that through the contest theme, they want the Filipino artists to express in their artworks the joy and reward of giving back to others at the end of an individual's journey on earth by engaging in cornea or eye donation.

Padilla explained that through the public viewing of the artworks until Oct. 16 this year, she is hoping that many Filipinos will understand or be aware of the good act of donating cornea at the end of their journey on earth to enable other people who are blind to see.

She said that the exhibition is also one good moment to remind or be an eye opener to everyone that upon death of a loved one, the grieving family can appreciate the fact that their dead family member "can still continue to exist in the lives of other people." This is so because the cornea can be transferred to blind people so that they can also enjoy the beauty of living a life with eyes that are functioning to help them become more productive.

“Anyone can be a part of this vital work, change lives, and literally become a hero for others simply by signing a donor card and pledging the eyes or cornea after death and by encouraging friends and families to do the same act,” she added.

She clarified that the act of removing the cornea or eyes after death will not be disfiguring the face of the dead donor, which is commonly feared by some people or the grieving relatives as to how their dead family member will look during the wake.

“The face and the eye area of the donor will still look natural after eye or cornea donation,” she assured.

Cornea donation can also be decided by the patient's relatives few hours after death.

As example, Dr. Padilla recalled that there were some celebrities who had engaged in cornea donation like the late movie actor Jay Ilagan, Miko Sotto (son of Ali Sotto) and others.

In the process, families of said celebrities in a way had felt that their "lost loved ones" were not completely gone and had the feeling that a part of their dead relatives "is still living and providing a worthy cause to others by letting them live and see."

For more information, or those who would like to sign an organ donation card, they can contact the EBFP through telephone number (02)3026282.

PH, Georgia sign eco protection pact

By Ellalyn De Vera

The governments of the Philippines and Republic of Georgia signed yesterday a friendship and cooperation agreement for the conservation of biodiversity and management of protected areas between the two countries.

The agreement was the first of its kind between the two nations with representatives from the Philippines’ Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB), a staff bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and Georgia’s Agency of Protected Areas (APA) as signatories.

BMB Director Theresa Mundita Lim, Ministry of Environment Protection of Georgia Deputy Minister Ekaterine Grigalva, and Honorary Consul of Georgia in the Philippines Thelmo Cunanan Jr. led the ceremonial signing of the Declaration of Friendship and Cooperation during simple rites at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon City.

While the two countries are significantly different from each other as to geography and climate, both have common challenges when it come to biodiversity conservation and protected areas protection.

Georgia has around 20 national parks, while the Philippines has about 240 national parks, Lim said.

“We are convinced that this collective effort will lead to the enhancement of the management for protected areas and promote learnings toward effective protected area management and eco-tourism management, not only in terrestrial areas but also in other areas eventually. More importantly we hope to get a good grasp of what is on the ground in the different countries by way of parallel efforts in improving protected areas management playing an important role in providing ecosystem services to the minor landscape,” she added.

“This promotes the value of conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity through the sharing of information and sharing best practices on ecotourism development, nature conservation, landscape protection, and community education and public awareness, as well as data management,” she also said.

Under the agreement, BMB and APA commit to cooperate with each other in the fields of nature conservation information and data systems, as well as the management of protected areas, ecotourism and national parks.

These include involvement of local stakeholders; identification of sites of national importance, inventory, data analysis and processing; and field training. The two agencies will adopt a “sister relationship” between the two countries to compare and enhance environment management and ecotourism approaches to identified sites.

Grigalva said Cunanan has effectively promoted this partnership between the two countries, saying the signing of of cooperation is a perfect opportunity to come to the Philippines. She noted that Georgia does not have many partners in Asia, unlike in the United States and Europe where Georgia had some “sister protected areas.”

Cunanan pointed out that this is the Philippines’ first friendship and cooperation agreement on biodiversity with Georgia. “We have common problems and challenges and through this cooperation, we can share expertise, learn from them, and join efforts to improve the management of protected areas,” he said.

In the Philippines, Cunanan said they will be working on the establishment of sister protected areas in the coming months.

“We have many projects that we can do and one of the things we are considering is the establishment of sister protected areas,” he added.

QC gov't conducts employment caravan

(PNA), SCS/LSJ

MANILA, Sept. 13 (PNA) -- The Quezon City government conducted an employment caravan on Saturday in Districts I, II and V to provide different employment programs and services to local residents.

The caravan was led by the city’s Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment–National Capital Region-QC Field Office (DOLE-NCR-QCFO) and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).

The PESO caravan also featured job fairs, Kasambahay registration, skills registry system and registration for Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Among the venues for the PESO Caravan were the Sto. Cristo Elementary School in Barangay Bago Bantay, for District I; Barangay Holy Spirit covered court, for District II; and the Fairview Center Mall along Regalado Ave., Novaliches, for District V.

PESO Chief Carlo Magno Abella said that a total of 30 business establishments participated in the jobs fair.

“The job fairs underscore the city government’s continuing effort to expand its employment base for its unemployed and underemployed residents,” Abella added.

PH Echo experts celebrate 25 years of cardio imaging

(Manila Bulletin)

Heart disease has always been a top concern of health experts worldwide and at the home front. As part of the physician’s arsenal, echocardiography has remained one of the most bankable cardiovascular diagnostic tools for the past few decades.

The ability to provide both physicians and their patients vibrant and realistic images of the moving heart has helped echocardiography keep its stronghold as the most accessible and clinically-relevant test in modern times.

To celebrate its current and future role in the care of heart patients, the Philippine Society of Echocardiography will once again team up with the Philippine Heart Association Council on Echocardiography in staging the 21st edition of the Annual Echo Convention from Sept. 13 to 15, 2015 at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Ortigas Center, Quezon City.

This three-day event will feature a Pre-convention Workshop on Sept. 13, at 1-5 p.m. dedicated to advanced topics on pediatric cardiology and 3-dimensional imaging.

The formal convention proper from Sept. 14 to Sept. 15 promises to be a socially and scientifically jampacked affair, consisting of more than 30 interesting lectures and sessions to be handled by renowned Philippine cardiologists as well as internationally-acclaimed foreign faculty.

For more details, visit the official website of the PSE http://www.philechosoc.org, email pse_sec@yahoo.com, or directly contact the PSE Secretariat: Basement Level, Heart and Lung Diagnostic Clinic, 112 Kalayaan Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City; +639999-5205781, through Ms. Michele Espaniola or Ms. Kaye Soril.

PNP Chief to public: Secure vehicles as roadside parking is prone to car theft

By Christopher Lloyd T. Caliwan [(PNA), RMA/CLTC]

MANILA, Sept. 11 (PNA) -- Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Director General Ricardo C. Marquez on Friday advised the public anew to refrain from parking their vehicles along roadside.

Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) data released during the regular Lambat-Sibat meeting Friday, show that from Jan. 5 to Sept. 6, 2015, a total of 489 cars were stolen in Metro Manila, 44 percent of which, or 214, happened along the streets, while 29 percent, or 140 incidents, occurred in residential areas.

Data also show that 54 percent, or 265 cars were reported to be stolen while parked and 29 percent were forcibly taken.

Of the 489, Quezon City Police District (QCPD) recorded the most number of stolen vehicles with 213; followed by Easter Police District (EPD), 88; Northern Police District (NPD),72; Manila Police District (MPD),59; and Southern Police District (SPD) with 57 incidents.

However, for the past two weeks, from Aug. 24 to Sept. 6, the DIDM recorded zero carnapping incidents in QCPD.

DIDM also noted that 64 percent of car stealing happened from 12:01 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

“While some of its personnel are in the field, our Highway Patrol Group (HPG) is still focused on its other duties in combating carnapping and hi-jacking activities.” Marquez said.

“As our motorists and pedestrians demonstrate discipline and respect traffic and law enforcement in EDSA when HPG took over last Monday, I also urge the public to do the same in their respective communities –to be more vigilant against carnappers” the Chief PNP added.

The PNP leadership is also planning to upgrade their Lambat-Sibat efforts by visiting business establishments who sell second-hand motor vehicles to ensure their legitimacy and eliminate the chances of selling stolen vehicles.

The PNP’s Oplan Lambat-Sibat, regularly audits crime incident reports at the police station level and uses its data to further generate and identify “crime hot spots” and “crime patterns” where and when intensified police interventions are necessary.

PNP fields more cops in Metro Manila

(PNP/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 10 (PIA) – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Director General Ricardo C. Marquez ordered the fielding of more cops in Metro Manila to combat crimes.

According to National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Acting Regional Director PCSUPT Joel D. Pagdilao, some 314 police officers 1 (PO1) in the regional headquarters who perform administrative works, together with the 123 police officers of the Philippine National Police Academy Class 2015, were downloaded to different police districts.

The police officers were ordered to focus patrolling in major thoroughfares, pilot areas for beat patrol, vital and financial installations, beat/mobile area and places of convergence in Metro Manila such as MTR/LTR stations, bus terminals, shopping malls and others.

Pagdilao noted that if more police are on the streets, the citizens will be more confident and feel safe against any crime.

He committed to completely download seventy percent policemen by this month. Aside from basic policing, the NCRPO chief also committed to lower crime rates especially in the “ber” months through strengthened “OPLAN LAMBAT SIBAT.”

PDEA,SSS signs MOA

(PNA), RMA/CLTC

MANILA, Sept. 9 (PNA) -- A memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Social Security System was signed to give full support to cover the contractual, job-order and permanent personnel as members under the Social Security Law of the Philippines.

PDEA Director General Undersecretary Arturo G. Cacdac, Jr. and SSS Senior Vice President Judy Frances A. See signed the agreement in a ceremony recently at the PDEA National Headquarters in Quezon City.

Under the agreement, the SSS Self-employed program is applicable to all contractual and job-order personnel in the employ of the government but not coverable under the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Law for such personnel to have protection against the hazards of disability, sickness, maternity, old age, death, and other contingencies that SSS offers.

Cacdac said the agreement between PDEA and SSS allowed contractual and job orders personnel of PDEA to maintain consistently the remittances of their monthly premium contributions and payments of loan amortizations.

He added the permanent PDEA personnel, who are also SSS members by virtue of their previous private employment, may reactivate their membership by paying SSS contributions as voluntary members.

“This agreement is a step forward in achieving the new partnership of PDEA and SSS that contractual, job orders and permanent PDEA employees will gain access to SSS benefits and loans privileges as active SSS members,” Cacdac said.

Maynilad steps up measures vs effects of El Niño

(MAYNILAD/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) – The Water Services, Inc. is mobilizing efforts to manage the effects of El Niño on its concession area’s water supply.

Among Maynilad’s mitigating measures are system adjustments to manage the reduced supply, prompt repair of pipe leaks, and extension of operating hours of pumping stations. The company is also ready to deploy its four portable water treatment plants to hard-to-reach areas, reactivate several deep wells, install stationary tanks, and send water tankers to severely affected areas.

According to Maynilad, the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) reduced the Angat Dam supply allocation for Metro Manila from 41 cms (cubic meters per second) to 38 cms beginning this September, in an effort to preserve the water supply during El Niño season.

At 38 cms allocation, Maynilad estimates that some 900 barangays or 56 percent of its concession area will experience the impact of the raw water supply cutback. Of this 56 percent, about 18 percent will be severely affected, with water available to these areas for less than 12 hours.

To ensure that the limited supply will be maximized and that all affected customers will have some water at least at certain times of the day, Maynilad will be implementing rotating service interruptions.

“We shall announce the date of the water service interruptions two days before implementation. This way, our affected customers will have enough time to store water,” said Engr. Ronaldo Padua, Head of Maynilad’s Water Supply Operations.

Since the last El Niño in 2010, Maynilad has significantly enhanced its operational efficiencies and made system and infrastructure improvements, making it better prepared for this latest El Niño episode. It has increased water storage capacity from 281 million liters (ML) to 561 ML after it constructed 11 new reservoirs to add to its existing 14. The company has also added 15 new pumping stations to its existing 11.

In addition, Maynilad’s campaign to reduce water loss or Non-Revenue Water (NRW) has brought NRW in the West Zone down from 53 percent in 2010 to 32 percent by June 2015. This translates to over 400 MLD (million liters per day) of recovered water that the company can deliver to its customers.

Comet jeepneys back in QC streets after battery upgrade

By Erika Sauler

After being grounded because of one unit that suddenly burst into flames in May, Comet jeepneys—touted as an environment-friendly urban transport—are back in the streets of Quezon City.

They now come with an upgraded battery system which should prevent a repeat of the fire that forced the suspension of their commercial operations in the city. The Comet started operations in Sept. 2014.

The US-based Pangea manufactures the Comet (Community Optimized Managed Electric Transport) while Global Electric Transportation (GET) Philippines handles fleet management.

With the same fare matrix as jeepneys, Comets currently ply the SM North-Katipunan Avenue and SM North-Luzon Avenue routes from Mondays to Saturdays between 5:30 a.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Frankie Endriga, Pangea Philippines general manager, said the new battery system was similar to the electric vehicles used in Disney theme parks which has better safety features and simpler wiring for easier management.

Pasang Masda president Obet Martin said the transport group supports alternative fuel and is working with GET Philippines to encourage other operators to convert to the managed system.

“Drivers won’t have to compete for passengers because they will receive a basic salary for eight-hour work. The passengers are better served and there will be less traffic,” Martin added.

Comets are dispatched every 30 minutes during off-peak hours and as quickly as three minutes during rush hour. It uses a cash-less system with a tap card that can be reloaded at the stations.

DND CASA pre-bid conference slated for Sept. 16

(PNA), SCS/PFN

MANILA, Sept. 6 (PNA) -- The Department of National Defense (DND), in a supplemental bid bulletin, has announced that the pre-bid conference for its PhP4,968,000,000 close-air support aircraft (CASA) project has been scheduled this coming Sept. 16.

It will be held at the DND Bidding and Awards Committee conference room, basement right wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City at 9 a.m.

It was postponed pending the signing of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program.

The DND is planning to acquire six CAS aircraft to replace or beef up the Air Force's existing Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco" turboprop attack planes.

CAS refers to capability to provide air support to infantry and naval units in contact with the enemy.

The contract includes integrated logistic support system.

Winning bidders must be able to deliver the aircraft within 540 calendar days from contract effectivity.

Participants in the DND's CAS project must have completed a similar program within the last 10 years.

The CAS aircraft must be used by the countries offering and manufacturing them.

MRT-3 prototype now parked in its depot in Quezon City

(PNA), RMA/ANP

MANILA, Sept 5 (PNA) -- The Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) prototype train car was transferred to its depot in Quezon City early Saturday morning after being assembled by its manufacturer Thursday (Sept 3) night.

Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) spokesperson Miguel Arthur Sagcal confirmed this by posting photos of the prototype finally parked at the MRT-3 depot on Saturday, 4:30 a.m.

The prototype was assembled at the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1)depot in Pasay and was later transferred to its MRT-3 depot in Quezon City.

At present, DOTC is tapping a long-term service provider to handle the MRT-3’s maintenance contract by early next year. The service provider will replace the current seven groups in charge of maintaining the rail systems as soon as the latter's contract expires.

The prototype last month went through inspection by the DOTC to ensure its compliant with the technical components and specifications of the train coaches.

DOTC earlier said that after assembly, the unit's components such as the doors, seats, poles, and hand straps would also undergo dynamic testing in November.

If unit is compatible with the rail system, DOTC will start ordering coaches by December.

This prototype is only the first of the 48 brand new train cars that will be delivered starting in the first quarter of 2016.

VMMC roof deck for waterproofing

(PNA), SCS/PFN/EBP

MANILA, Sept. 4 (PNA) -- In line with efforts to upgrade the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC), the Department of National Defense (DND) has allocated the sum of PhP30 million for the waterproofing of the roof deck of the Quezon City-based medical facility.

The DND said the project is under Lot No. VMMC Infra 2015-1.

Winning bidders are expected to complete the waterproofing within 250 calendar days. They must also have completed a similar project recently.

Pre-bid opening is scheduled for Sept. 10 at 10 a.m. at the DND Bidding and Awards Committee Conference Room, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Bid opening and submission is on Sept. 23 at the same time and venue.

Bids will be opened in the presence of the Bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

DSWD, NCFF spearhead National Family Week celebration this September

By Leilani S. Junio [(PNA), SCS/LSJ]

MANILA, Sept. 3 (PNA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through the National Committee on the Family Week (NCFF), is spearheading the celebration of the National Family Week this September with the theme "Gender Equality and Children's Rights in Contemporary Families."

In a press briefing held on Thursday at the DSWD Katapatan Room in its central office in Batasan Hills, Quezon City, DSWD Secretary Corazon J. Soliman enjoined the whole nation to participate in the celebration by holding activities that promote harmony and unity of the Filipino family.

The National Committee on the Filipino Family (NCFF) is being chaired by the DSWD chief.

For this year's celebration, the kick-off activity will be held in cooperation with the local government unit (LGU) of Muntinlupa City which will play as host.

Every year, a different LGU participates as host of the event together with DSWD’s NCFF and other civil society organizations and partners who emphasize the importance of families and making the foundation strong in this modern age where many social issues have emerged that threaten family relationships.

“If a family is strong and able to give care and upright values for the children to make them well-rounded persons, then the problems of society will be less… That is why we are focusing on it,” said Soliman.

She said that since there are complex problems surrounding a typical Filipino family nowadays, it is important to strengthen family relationship and prevent it from shattering or being divided.

Among the highlights of the celebration is a motorcade and opening program on Sept. 5 to be led by the DSWD chief, Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi and Rep. Rodolfo Biazon.

On Sept. 11, an interfaith festival will be held at the Expo Trade Hall Festival Mall in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

On the other hand, DSWD will organize the 4th National Family Conference on Sept. 17, to be conducted also at the Festival Mall.

A photo contest and paper art contest focusing on this year’s theme will also be staged.

The entries will be showcased in Alabang Town Center and SM Muntinlupa City, respectively.

The culminating program will be held on Sept. 25 which is also the “Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga” Day, an annual declaration where every family is encouraged to spend dinner together.

During the closing ceremony, the DSWD, NCFF and the Muntilunpa City government will recognize model families in the city.

The National Family Week is a yearly celebration pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 60 signed on Sept. 28, 1992 and Executive Order No. 241 dated June 9, 1995.

QC, SHFC award land title to 50 HOAS, 23 individuals

(QC PAISO/RJB/SDL)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA)--The Quezon City Government and the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) awarded land title to some 50 homeowners associations (HOAS) and 23 individuals who were able to acquire properties through the Community Mortgage Program (CMP).

Mayor Herbert M. Bautista led the awarding ceremony along with SHFC Vice President Anicia Villafuerte, SHFC public affairs head Lorei Lyn Bundoc, SHFC division chief Allan Romero, and Mon Asprer, head of the QC Housing Resettlement and Community Development Department (HRCDD) with officers of various nongovernment organizations (NGOs) and HOAs.

Bautista commended the efforts of various nongovernment organizations for helping the CMP beneficiaries with the requirements to qualify for the loans and the SHFC, for providing low financing schemes for the urban poor.

Bautista said that since its inception in 1990 until July 2015, the CMP has taken out 259 projects where 11, 443 families benefited.

He also said that 72 more projects are under process which are expected to benefit 5, 899 families.

The mayor said the city government is continuously adding more housing projects to further reduce the number of informal settler families by 2017.

Most of these families occupy government and privately-owned property and in high-risk areas, according to Bautista.

During the occasion, the SHFC also gave recognition to 50 HOAs as Top CERs (Collections Efficiency Rating) or those who paid their contributions correctly and on time.

The CMP assisted groups of urban poor families and home owners associations by helping them to qualify or be eligible to get loans to pay the property, and eventually make them legal land owners.

DOST-NCR chief encourages inventors, students to join science contest

By Jerome R. Paunan (DOST/RJB/JCP/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 1 (PIA) – The Department of Science and Technology-National Capital Region is inviting Filipino researchers, students, and budding or full-fledged inventors based in Metro Manila to join this year’s Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE).

DOST-NCR regional director Dr. Teresita Fortuna said that their agency would accept entries until September 15. The actual event would be on September 28 to 30 at the Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP) in Quezon City.

Fortuna said selection will be based on six categories: Outstanding Invention (Tuklas Award), Outstanding Utility Model, Outstanding Industrial Design, Outstanding Creative Research (Likha Award), and Outstanding Student Creative Research (Sibol Award) for High School and College Students.

She said there is no limit to the number of entries and participants can win as much as P50,000 in cash.

For his part, DOST-NCR assistant regional director Engr. Arman Bionat explained that the Invention entry must be covered by invention patent still in force granted by the Intellectual Property Office Philippines (IPOPHIL); while, Utility Model is covered by utility model patent or registration, still in force granted by the IPOPHIL.

Likewise, an Industrial Design entry must be covered by industrial design patent or registration still in force granted by the IPOPHIL.

Moreover, he said that a Creative Research refers to patent pending inventions, registration pending utility models and industrial designs and research results yet applied for patent, utility model and industrial design registration.

Eligible under this category are new and useful machines, devices or gadgets, products or processes, or an improvement of any of the foregoing; and non biological/microbiological processes not contrary to public order, morals, public health and welfare, he added.

On the other hand, Student Creative Research for High School and College on refers to new and innovative projects/works made by college and high school students, he said.

Eligible projects or works under this category are new and useful machines or gadgets, products or processes, or an improvement of any of the foregoing; and non-biological/microbiological processes not contrary to public order, morals, public health and welfare, Bionet added.

“We hope all the schools in Metro Manila will be able participate in RICE,” Fortuna said.

“We are also willing to assist them with the technical writing aspect of their application,” she added.

This year’s theme, “Philippines: A Science Nation Innovating and Inventing for Global Competitiveness.”

RICE entry forms, rules, and criteria are available for download at ncr.dost.gov.ph.

For more information, contact DOST-NCR at TeleFax No.: (02) 837-3162.

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