Quezon City News September 2016

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Quezon City - Archived News
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The Founder Manuel Quezon
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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.

Fabella hospital offices to transfer to Quezon City on Oct. 3

By ANNE MARXZE D. UMIL (Bulatlat)

MANILA — Some departments and services of the Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital in Manila will soon be transferred to the Philippine Blood Center building in the compound of Lung Center of the Philippines (LCP) in Quezon City on Oct. 3, based on the latest memorandum released by the Fabella hospital management on Sept. 4.

The building in the LCP compound will be the temporary relocation of the maternity hospital while the new Fabella is being constructed in its new location inside the Department of Health compound, also in Manila.

The memorandum said the offices and employees of the following are to be transferred: said the offices and employees of the Office of the Medical Center Chief II, School of Midwifery, Hospital Operations and Patient Support Service, Finance Service, Professional Training, Education and Research Service, Comprehensive Family Planning and the Commission of Audit Field Office.

The in-patient department, however, will remain in its current location in Lope De Vega street, Manila said Ramon Baldovino, pharmacist II in Fabella hospital and also a member of the Save Fabella Hospital Movement (SFHM).

They have set-up a kubol on Wednesday, Sept. 28, as they vow not waver on their fight against the transfer of the maternity hospital.

Elvira Mendoza, SFHM spokesperson said that the transfer of administration offices will only jeopardize the smooth hospital operations. “Saan ka nakakita ng hospital na watak-watak?” she told Bulatlat. Furthermore, Mendoza said that the transfer is a “step towards abolishment of free and affordable hospital services.”

Read also: Fabella Hospital, up for rebuilding or commercialization?

Several groups have joined together in June this year to stop the supposed transfer of the maternity hospital on June 9. While transfer was halted on the target date, however the plan has not been scrapped under the new administration of President Rodrigo Duterte. Earlier this month, Health Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial said that the transfer will push through.

The SFHM composed of several groups including employees of Fabella hospital, remain steadfast in opposing the plan, as they say the transfer of the hospital equates to corporatization which will mean expensive services for the poor. The group cited the case of the Government-Owned and Control Corporations, such as the Philippine Heart Center and National Kidney Transplant Institute, which increased the prices of their health services, making these inaccessible to indigent patients.

Hospital for poor mothers

News of the hospital transfer saddened Neneth Boncollo, 46 who was born in Fabella hospital in 1969. It was also there where she gave birth to her children. Now it is her granddaughter who gave birth in the hospital. She said Fabella’s services remain affordable for the poor and have a quality service that is why Fabella is their go-to hospital.

This was the same sentiment of Elizabeth Santos, 47, whose granddaughter also gave birth in the hospital. She said her granddaughter only had a three pre-natal check-up in Fabella, but the hospital still accommodated her. Santos and Boncollo said that they also paid less than P1,000 ($20). “Many poor people have been benefitting from the affordable cost of the hospital, why would the government still want to abolish this?” Boncollo said.

In 2015, Fabella hospital had a total admission of 52,465 patients based on the Comparative Statistics of Measures of the Hospital Utilization and Performance, 2010-2015.

“Where will these patients go once the hospital is demolished, or worse privatized?” said Robert Mendoza, Alliance of Health Workers national chairman.

Baldovino said that the hospital has been refusing to admit some patients as the hospital is now cleaning some of its equipments in preparation for the transfer. Prior to that, Baldovino said that Fabella Hospital Director Dr. Esmeraldo Ilem also released a memorandum on Aug. 16 that stated downsizing of bed capacity of Fabella hospital from 700 to 200.

Baldovino said they also believe that the demand letter of the House Guaranty Corporation ordering the hospital management to vacate the land due to investment is the reason behind the relentless effort of the government to evict the hospital from its current location.

But even with the definite transfer of the hospital, Robert Mendoza said the SFHM with the Alliance of Health Workers, the community and other sectors will not back down on their struggle for a free and affordable health services for the poor. They plan to have series of lunch break protests and will guard the gates of Fabella to stop the moving out of equipments.

DENR, miners agree to work together

(PNA), FPV/PR-DENR/EDS

MANILA, Sept. 29 (PNA) -- Two days after the Department of Environment and Natural Resources(DENR) made public the results of its mining audit, officials of the DENR and mining companies agreed to work together to ensure that mining redounds to the common good and improves lives of Filipinos, especially in communities that host mining operations.

Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Gina Lopez met with officials of mining companies on Thursday during which she urged them to take part in the DENR’s integrated area development approach to create “mini economic zones” that can generate employment, livelihood and income-generating activities in communities where they operate.

“When you do that, we can get our people out of poverty,” she said.

Addressing about 80 representatives of mining companies at the DENR social hall in Quezon City, Lopez explained the policies and thrusts of the department stressing that the bottom line is “for the country’s natural resources to be used in a way that benefits the most number of people.”

Lopez noted that in the case of mining, its benefits have been limited while causing “social fissure” in communities.

“There are people who benefit but many others who don’t and suffer. And they fight with each other. That’s the most painful—when the presence of a business interest creates social fissure,” she said.

Saying the purpose of the meeting was “to move forward and work together for the country’s good,” Lopez said, "I reiterate sincerely and emphatically, I want to help you (the mining industry) make things right and be on the positive side.”

Lopez presented the Total Economic Valuation (TEV) framework, which she described as a "fair and scientific way to make decisions based on monetary evaluation."

She encouraged them to use TEV to identify and quantify the major environmental impacts of mining and from there decide which programs to implement in their areas.

Lopez cited the social development and management program of mining companies as one that can make significant socioeconomic impact if the money is used to create economic activities for communities under the DENR’s area development approach.

"What if in the areas where you are, we ensure an area development approach, wherein your SDMP money is utilized in the best of ways with great social and economic value," she said. "I can work with you there, in such a way that the entire area where you are becomes a huge economic success."

She said that by doing economically viable programs, the development of the community will continue long after mining has stopped.

The DENR also presented programs on reef protection and preservation and the use of biochar to rehabilitate agricultural lands affected by mining, both of which the mining companies could be involved in.

During the open forum, most of those who spoke expressed support for the DENR’s program—particularly the use of SMDP for total socioeconomic development of host communities.

STCQC ’92 holds fitness run

(Philippine Dailiy Inquirer)

THERESA’S College, Quezon City (STC QC) Batch 1992, together with the St. Theresa’s College Quezon City Alumnae Association (STAA), holds “One STC Run: Run for Teachers” on Oct. 16, at University of the Philippines (UP) Academic Oval in Diliman, Quezon City.

A fundraising activity for STC and its teachers, “One STC Run” is designed as a family “Amazing Race”—the first of its kind in the Philippines. It combines a 3-km run with fitness zone pit stops that appeal to every member of the family.

Dance to energetic music with mixed moves of hip-hop, soca, samba, salsa and aerobics at the Zumba Pit Stop.

Enjoy a cardio workout mixed with the latest dance styles and hottest new sounds at the Body Jam Pit Stop. And for those who crave an energetic workout inspired by mixed martial arts, “One STC Run” offers the Body Combat Zone.

Fun surprises await the young ones at the Kiddie Zone. Prizes will be given to the first three finishers, the first family finisher and many more.

One STC Run also features a breakfast and bazaar area with food carts and a variety of goodies on sale.

Race kit distribution starts at 4 a.m., and the gun start is at 6 a.m.

Proceeds of “One STC Run” will go to the STC QC Faculty Development Program and the STC QC Senior High School Building Fund.

“One STC Run” is supported by Avida Land Corp., Fitness First SM Megamall, Growee and The Icon Clinic.

Buy tickets and register at www.onestcrun.com. Call Bongging Arrieta-Royola at 0917-8162810, Teng Guzman-Bautista at 0917-5188364. For sponsorship interest, call Kleng Gonzales at 0908-4627857 or e-mail rubygailgonzales@gmail.com.

QC recognizes “Partners for Change”

(QC PAISO/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY (PIA)—The Quezon City Government recognizes its long serving and deserving barangay leaders during this year’s Barangay Day Celebration dubbed as “Partners for Change” held Wednesday, September 21 at Quezon Memorial Circle.

Councilor Ricardo B. Corpuz, punong barangay (PB) of Barangay Bungad, is an ex-officio member of the City Council as president of the city’s Liga ng mga Barangay.

Corpuz is also the President of the National Capital Region (NCR) chapter and secretary of the National Liga ng mga Barangay.

In recognition of the councilor’s exemplary performance in public service, the Quezon City government conferred the lifetime achievement award to Corpuz for his dedication and meaningful contribution to nation-building and development. He received a plaque of appreciation and cash reward during the awards night.

The councilor also received two more service awards – the lifetime service award for having 22 accumulated years of service in the barangay from his first election in 1994 and the legacy merit award, an honor given to incumbent three-termer Punong Barangays whose last term will end on November 30, 2016.

The city government also awarded legacy merit awards to: PB Rizaldy C. Nepomuceno (Sto. Cristo), PB Eduardo M. Firmalino (Ramon Magsaysay), PB Leonardo C. Flores III (Alicia), PB Ernesto R. Rivera (San Antonio), PB Beng San U. Sia (West Triangle), PB Ernesto B. Baetiong (Sta. Cruz), PB Ramon G. Veloso Jr (Masambong), PB Virginia C. Ongtauco (Talayan), PB Richard N. Yu (Sto. Domingo), PB Renaldo R. Baena (St. Peter), PB Ester M. Gutierrez (Damar), PB William Manugar S. Chua (Paang Bundok), PB Jose O. De Guzman (Socorro), PB Celso G. De Veas (Quirino 2B), PB Dominic P. Flores (Pansol), PB Caesar P. Marquez (Loyola Heights), PB Cesar R. Dela Fuente Jr (Mangga), PB Juliet L. Ginete (Masagana), PB Reynaldo B. Rivera (Villa Maria Clara), PB Edgardo F. Pangilinan (Bayanihan), PB Elmer C. Maturan (Bagumbayan), PB Arturo S. Dimayuga (Blue Ridge B), PB Fernandito M. Ortiz (Escopa II), PB Ronald M. Taguba (Escopa IV), PB Oscar Q. Concepcion (Dioquino Zobel), PB Alberto C. Flores (Sacred Heart), PB Leopoldo A. Tiamson (Paligsahan), PB Jayson G. Encomienda (Kamuning), PB Larry L. Handayan (South Triangle), PB Vincent T. Saab (Pinagkaisahan), PB Ma. Teresa L. Atentar (Kaunlaran), PB Robin C. Porlaje (Kalusugan), PB Armando T. Lazo (Kristong Hari), PB Concepcion S. Malañgen (Doña Imelda), PB Mauricio C. Gutierrez Sr (Old Capitol Site), PB Isabelita P. Gravides (UP Campus), PB Kristine Del A. Advincula (San Vicente), PB Federico S. Jong Jr (Teachers Village West), PB Jesus N. Lipnica Jr (Pinyahan), PB Benjamin A. Erediano (Botocan), PB Julian B. Santos (Krus na Ligas), PB Renato U. Galimba (Greater Lagro), PB William R. Bawang (Sta. Lucia), PB Eduardo R. Juan Jr (Baesa), PB Ursula R. Juan (Talipapa), PB Hector B. Geronimo (Tandang Sora), and PB Orlando G. Mamonong (Unang Sigaw).

Awardees of lifetime service award were: PB Leonardo C. Flores III (Alicia), Kagawad (Kgd) Rowena T. Pobar (Alicia), PB Rizaldy C. Nepomuceno (Sto. Cristo), Kgd. Gideon F. Gener (Veteran Village), Kgd. Teresita T. Seradica (Sta. Cruz), Kgd. Eduardo C. Donasco (Paltok), Kgd. Thomas T. Dizon (Mariblo), PB Renaldo R. Baena (St. Peter), Kgd. Ruben A. Tingco (Damar), Kgd. Rodolfo L. Tamang (Lourdes), Kgd. Danilo C. Maniquis (Novaliches Proper), Kgd. Elisa S. Lim (Sta. Monica), PB Hector B. Geronimo (Tandang Sora), Kgd. Rolando F. Gajudo (Unang Sigaw), PB Richard V. Ambita (Bagbag), PB Christian A. Cando (Capri), Kgd. Reginaldo R. Rico (Silangan), PB Dominic P. Flores (Pansol), PB Edwin R. Dela Cruz (San Roque), PB Noel R. Agdeppa (Quirino 2-A), PB Ronald M. Taguba (Escopa IV), Kgd. Fe M. Flaminiano (Laging Handa), PB Jayson G. Encomienda (Kamuning), PB Larry L. Handayan (South Triangle), PB Vincent T. Saab (Pinagkaisahan), Kgd. Iris Ann C. Barcelona (San Martin De Porres), Kgd. Mercedita M. Lapuz (Kaunlaran), PB Rodel N. Lobo (Tatalon), Kgd. Ramon Edwin B. Abaño (Tatalon), Kgd. Jose D. Clet (Damayang Lagi), Kgd. Jesus V. Non (Mariana), Kgd. Teresita N. Monforte (Doña Imelda), PB Sergio C. Gonzalvo (Sto. Niño), PB Mauricio C. Gutierrez Sr (Old Capitol Site), PB Federico S. Jong Jr (Teachers Village West), PB Feliciano A. Valmocina (Holy Spirit), Kgd. Geronimo V. Espino (Holy Spirit), Kgd. Ramon S. Villafuerte (E. Rodriguez), PB Raulito R. Datiles (Bagumbuhay), Kgd. Teodoro C. Pausanos (Kalusugan), Kgd. Donato DP. Viray (Doña Imelda) and PB Julian B. Santos (Krus na Ligas).

QC Barangay Operations Center chief Jorge Felipe represented Mayor Herbert Bautista at the awards ceremonies.

DPWH highlights researches for quality, safe and efficient infrastructure

(PNA), FPV/EBP

MANILA, Sept. 26 (PNA) -- Engineers, researchers and scholars from different government offices, universities, organizations and private sectors gathered together for the 2016 Research Symposium of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), thru the initiative of its Bureau of Research and Standards (BRS).

Eighteen 18 research studies were presented at the symposium with the theme “Providing infrastructure that improves quality, traffic and road safety” which was held at the GT-Toyota Asian Culture Center in the University of the Philippines, Quezon City.

In his welcome remarks, Undersecretary Raul C. Asis emphasized that the research symposium is aimed to welcome uncharted ideas and new perspectives to improve the infrastructure sector and the field of research and development.

“The DPWH acknowledges not just these researches per se but as well as the call to partake in the collaborative efforts of incorporating these innovations in our mandate as being the infrastructure arm of the government,” said Asis.

Asis described the 2nd Research Symposium as an opportunity to accomplish together the challenges not just as research enthusiasts but as Filipinos.

The presentation includes researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology, University of the Philippines, University of Sto.Tomas, De La Salle University, University of San Jose-Recoletos, Technological Institute of the Philippines, Central Mindanao University, Shell Bitumen Philippines, Solid Cement Corporation, Krah Pipes Manila, Inc., Earth Structure Philippines, Tertex International, R. A. Kelman, Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers and DPWH offices such as BRS and Bureau of Quality and Safety (BQS).

The research papers which focused on infrastructure safety and new construction methodology were presented to a group of panelists composed of Director Dante Potante (Bureau of Design), Engineer Ma. Visna M. Manio (Bureau of Maintenance) and District Engineer Arthur Pascual, Jr. (Cavite 2nd District Engineering Office).

The research symposium also featured infrastructure companies as exhibitors including Rebtrade International Corp., Onduline Philippines, Flat Glass Alliance of the Phil. Inc., Sealbond Chemical Industries, Macro Industrial Packaging Products Corp., Eagle Cement Corp., CCT Chemicals, PGATECH Group of Companies, Holcim, and Parex Group Inc., Evercrete Phils. Limited Inc., Boysen Paints, Takigami Steel Construction Co. Ltd., Republic Cement Inc. and Polymer Products Inc.

BRS Director Judy Sese, on behalf of DPWH, expressed her gratitude to all DPWH offices, academic institutions and organizations who participated in the said event. “We hope that this activity will be conducted every year and we will be seeing you again,” she concluded.

The 1st Research Symposium was held on November 2015 at the DPWH Central Office.

DOH and partners lead 1st nationwide observance of Thyroid Cancer Awareness Week

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

MANILA (PNA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) and its partners led on Friday the first widespread observance of the National Thyroid Cancer Awareness Week.

The “historic” observance chose Barangay Greater Lagro in Novaliches, Quezon City as the site for the boosted campaign as the DOH aims to make the people of the country highly aware about thyroid cancer and the importance of knowing how to address and overcome it.

Barangay Greater Lagro, site of the La Mesa Dam or Novaliches Reservoir and Watershed, is one of the 142 barangays of Quezon City.

Through the observance, students from Lagro High School, parents, teachers and community members of the barangay were given the chance to hear and understand more about thyroid in the lectures provided by DOH through the invited experts and partners.

Dr. Nemencio Nicodemus Jr., president of the Philippine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism, discussed about thyroid and its functions in the body and explained also that there are types of thyroid cancers that are friendly and treatable.

He also raised the awareness of the attendees that undergoing check-ups and treating thyroid cancer (if confirmed through ultrasounds and biopsies) at an early condition is the promising way to overcome it.

They were all given the opportunity also to be checked by doctors if they have possible thyroid problems and given referrals afterward to the East Avenue Medical Center if they are suspected to be having the thyroid cancer/problem.

The check-up was done as part of the theme of the observance stating “Check Neck Mo, Now Na!”

The examination was done by finding out if there are lumps as the doctors try to search through their hands placed on the neck of those who took the opportunity for the check-up.

In that manner, teachers and parents were also taught on how to do a proper self-check for early signs of thyroid cancer.

Clarifications on some circulating myths regarding the illness were also tackled.

The observance of National Thyroid Cancer Awareness Week is also in line with the recently signed Republic Act No. 10871. This law was signed last May 3, 2016 by then President Benigno S. Aquino III.

R.A. 10871 directs the DOH, together with its partners, to develop a national program to discuss the causes and consequences as well as the treatment of thyroid cancer.

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, just above the collarbone. Thyroid hormones control the body’s metabolism.

Thyroid diseases include goiter, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroid cancer and thyroid nodules. These are highly prevalent, yet neglected diseases in the Philippines.

Data from the 2012 Philippine Thyroid Diseases Study revealed that almost one out of 10 Filipinos is affected by goiter.

Thyroid function abnormalities affect around 8 percent of the population, with an estimated 3 percent affected by some form of hypothyroidism, and about 6 percent affected by some form of hyperthyroidism.

These thyroid diseases affect women disproportionately, with women affected three times as much as men.

Thyroid cancer is the seventh most common cancer in the Philippines, ranking fourth among females and 17th among males.

Based on the Philippine population estimate as of July 2014, about 5.8 million Filipino adults have goiter, the most common thyroid disorder that maybe a sign of thyroid cancer.

“It (thyroid cancer) was mentioned in the lectures of Dr. Nicodemus that it is curable because this does not easily spread but have the potential to affect other body’s condition…and the best option is before reaching the aggravate condition, addressing of it can be done right away,” said DOH Undersecretary Dr. Gerardo Bayugo, who represented Health Secretary Dr. Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial in the event.

Dr. Bayugo added that in case there is a need for surgery, the mark of the operation is usually aligned in the line on the neckline so that said portion can be later not noticed or be just seen as part of the line appearing in the neck of women and even men.

He added that they will try to work it out soon that medicines/maintenance for the treatment of thyroid cancer will soon be available to the segments of the population needing it just like what they are providing among the members of the diabetes and hypertension clubs.

Meanwhile, also present in the event were doctors from Philippine Thyroid Association, Iodine Global Network and survivors of thyroid cancers such as singer Chad Borja.

They were also joined by Thyroid Cancer Support Group (PhilThyCAS) headed by Mrs. Imelda Reamon.

They were welcomed by Barangay Greater Lagro Barangay Captain Atty. Renato Galimba, who said that they were happy that their barangay was chosen by DOH for the pilot observance.

In a message to the attendees, Health Secretary Ubial said:

"The easiest way is to examine the neck for abnormal lumps. Just stand in front of a mirror with a glass of water. Look at your neck in the mirror and see if there are any visible lumps moving up and down while taking a sip of water. For men, the most visible structure on the neck is Adam’s apple. Any lump below this structure may be abnormal and must be further investigated."

QC mayor wants SPED classes in all city schools

(QC PAISO/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY (PIA)--Mayor Herbert Bautista is pressing for the setting up of special education centers in each of the city’s 146 public schools to provide children with special needs wider access to education and other services.

“We have to make sure that each of the city’s public schools should dedicate a special classroom for SPED classes,” Bautista said as he underscored the need to provide children with special needs equal playing field with ordinary children to enable them to fully develop their abilities, talents, interests.

Based on the records of the Division of City Schools, there are only 44 public elementary and 13 secondary schools offering special education program. QC elementary schools have 3,106 SPED enrollees while high schools have 350.

The expansion of the city’s SPED Program forms part of the QC’s Public Health Modernization Program, which dovetails the city’s continuing effort to provide its constituents with better health care services.

To date, QC maintains a Special Children’s Board which was formed in 2010 to protect and promote the wellbeing of special children in the city.

QC awards 12 new Units in Payatas’ Bistekville 5 to beneficiaries

(QC PAISO/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 23 (PIA)--The Quezon City Government’s Housing and Community Development and Resettlement Department (HCDRD) recently awarded 12 new housing units to the family beneficiaries of the Nagsama sa Tagumpay Homeowners Association of Barangay Payatas.

In a modest turnover ceremony Wednesday (September 21), 12 families received the keys to their own housing unit. The beneficiaries were given the priority after their homes were affected by an ongoing road access project in the area.

For Mr. Emiliano Octubre, his wife Maria Flor and their 3 daughters (age 10, 7 and 3), one of the family beneficiaries, moving to their humble 21 sq m home was an early christmas gift.

The Octubre family have been staying in Payatas since 1991; from a barong-barong they were able to build a concrete house in 1995. However, as informal settlers, Emiliano did not own the land where their house was built on. In 2015, the government decided to improve the access roads in Payatas, Emiliano and his family had to move. Fortunately, it was Mayor Herbert Bautista’s policy that whoever would be affected by the road development should be prioritized in the Bistekville Housing Project.

Thus, the HCDRD in partnership with the Nagsama sa Tagumpay HOA identified the Octubre family as one of the beneficiaries of Bistekville 5. Emiliano said that even though their home is smaller than their previous house, he considers himself fortunate because they can now proudly claim the house, as well as the lot, as their own.

Mrs. Nena Duron, also belong to the first batch of Bistekville 5 beneficiaries, was also thankful for the housing project. She is living in their Bistekville unit with her children (ages 25 and 23).

As a widower, she decided to let her children stay with her instead of living alone. Like the Octubre family, Mrs. Duron relocated to Bistekville 5 because her former house was also affected by the road improvements in Payatas. She also consider herself fortunate because claiming ownership of their new home was a fulfillment in itself.

Bistekville 5 will be building 58 units as part of its in-city/onsite relocation initiative for the informal settlers of Payatas. Bistekville 5 was initiated in November of 2015 and has currently finished construction of 25 of the targeted 58 units.

The 12 family beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the QC government, they said that they were blessed to have the opportunity to avail themselves of well-constructed housing units in a well-organized community.

The City Government’s socialized housing program called Bistekville, is a multi-awarded program because of its ability to do onsite resettlement, with a viable financing program in developments in partnership with various stakeholders – international and local NGOs, private companies, landowners and HOAs.

Inter-agency task force for IPs formed

(PNA), FPV/PR-DENR/EDS

MANILA, Sept. 22 (PNA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has led the creation of an inter-agency task force that would guarantee social protection and uphold the self-determination and development of all indigenous peoples (IPs) in the country.

The task force is composed of representatives from the DENR, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and the Natural Resources Development Corp. (NRDC), the DENR's corporate arm.

The three agencies signed on Wednesday a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to form the Indigenous Peoples Inter-Agency Task Force (IPITF).

DENR Undersecretary Demetrio Ignacio represented Secretary Regina Paz Lopez in the MOU signing, with NCIP executive director and chair Atty. Leonor T. Oralde-Quintayo and NRDC president-designate Sylvia Ordonez signing in behalf of their agencies.

The MOU signing came a week after Lopez announced that an IP Desk will be set up at the DENR central office in Quezon City.

She said the IP Desk will attend to the concerns of IPs who often face threats of land grabbing, forced eviction and human- rights violations.

Under the MOU, a technical working group will be formed to draft the rules of procedures to ensure the observance, effectiveness and smooth functioning of the task force.

The IPITF is tasked to make sure that the IPs are "not subjected to undue pressure and influence from unscrupulous businessmen or other industries intending to extract natural resources."

It is likewise expected to "act towards the fulfillment of the objectives of environmental laws and [IP] rights."

The DENR has promised to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of resoures within ancestral domains and preserve biodiversity, as well as to employ a strict policy of verifying the authenticity of documents pertaining to the use of lands within IP communities.

It also agreed to refrain from issuing titles within ancestral domains and provide opportunities for NCIP to access the Enhanced National Greening Program, the government's massive reforestation and poverty alleviation initiative, for the empowerment of IPs.

For her part, Quintayo said that she was “touched” by the new role given by Lopez to the commission.

“This is the first time that the NCIP and the DENR are working at the national level for really working with the indigenous peoples,” Quintayo said.

She said the preservation and development of ancestral lands for the benefit of IPs require convergence and the intervention of experts, which the collaboration among the three agencies will provide.

The NRDC, for its part, vowed to provide human resources and capital so that the IP communities will be able to make optimum use of their land resources.

The corporation also promised to assist in consultations, planning, product development and marketing for any social enterprise an IP community might wish to undertake.

Whenever available, the NRDC will provide the capital funding or mobilize resources to support biodiversity-friendly social enterprises.

The NCIP, on the other hand, will ensure sustainable use and development of ancestral domains of IPs, free from exploitation and abuse.

The commission also agreed to provide the DENR and the NRDC with community-initiated plans and roadmaps of IP concerns.

QC fetes exemplary barangay leaders, workers

(PAISO/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 21 (PIA)-- The Quezon City government is set to recognize today the exemplary service of more than a hundred barangay leaders and workers during the city’s 21st celebration of Barangay Day.

QC Mayor Herbert M. Bautista will lead the distribution of awards and recognition to barangay officials who rendered meaningful and dedicated service to their respective communities on September 21 (Wednesday) , 6:00 p.m. at the Liwasang Aurora, Quezon Memorial Circle (QMC).

Dubbed as “Partners for Change”, barangay officials and workers will be chosen based on their service record as public servants. They will be given plaques of appreciation and P5,000 cash.

QC Barangay Operations Center (BOC) chief Jorge Felipe said there are five awardees for longevity service award; five for loyalty service award; forty three for lifetime service award; forty nine for legacy merit award and one for lifetime achievement award.

Felipe explained that each award category have corresponding years of service requirements. He said longevity service awards will be conferred to incumbent barangay officials who have accumulated 30 years and above barangay service in various capacities or positions which contributed in no small measure to the growth and development of the barangay.

Loyalty service award will be given to incumbent barangay treasurers and secretaries who are in active service for 25 uninterrupted years and above in recognition of their unrelenting efforts and dedicated service to the barangay since their first appointment to the said position up to present.

The lifetime service award will be presented to incumbent barangay officials (Punong Barangays and Barangay Kagawads) who have 20 accumulated years of service and above in various capacities in the barangays, whether appointed and/or elected, while legacy merit award will be given to incumbent three termer Punong Barangays whose term will end supposedly on November 30, 2016 notwithstanding extension of their tenure of office.

The city government’s recognition of the service record of barangay officials and workers is one way of acknowledging their vital role in nation-building, especially in their effort in complementing the city government’s continuing programs to improve the living condition of its residents.

To date, QC has been unprecedented as a local government unit in giving full fiscal control to the city’s 142 barangays over their share of real property tax collections as well as providing them training in the proper management and accounting of these funds.

DBP, SSS ink partnership for disbursements, collections

(DBP/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)

MANILA, Sept. 20 (PIA) – To further facilitate the financial transactions of government agencies, the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and the Social Security System (SSS) entered into a cooperative partnership.

DBP President and CEO Gil A. Buenaventura and SSS President Emilio S. De Quiros led the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement.

Under the agreement, DBP will provide banking facilities and services for the handling and management of the collections, disbursements, and investments of SSS.

DBP now provides Deposit Pick-up and other services to a total of 42 SSS tellering branches nationwide. DBP is also looking to service an additional 20 more SSS branches by the end of 3rd quarter of 2016, covering a total of 62 SSS branches out of the 96 total tellering branches of SSS nationwide.

As part of the agreement, the Social Security Commission has accredited DBP as an SSS settlement bank for its regular monthly pension funding and daily disbursements for Sickness, Maternity and Employee’s Compensation (SMEC) and/or Death, Disability and Retirement Claim (DDR) to accredited disbursing banks.

Additionally, SSS has approved the use of DBP's Electronic Banking Facility covering: Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), BIR Electronic Filing and Payment System (BIR EFPS), and BancNet eGov Services.

The cooperative partnership between DBP and SSS is expected to expand further the business relationship between the two Government-Owned Corporations to enable the SSS to enhance its service to its members.

QC holds Peace and Order Multi-stakeholder Summit

(QC PAISO/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept 19 (PIA)—The Quezon City government recently held Peace and Order Multi-stakeholder Summit was held to foster improved coordination among various institutions, agencies and other stakeholders to bring about a more peaceful Quezon City.

During the event, Mayor Herbert Bautista underscored the continuous and consistent support of the City Government for the police force, the Bureau of Fire, and the National Bureau of Investigation.

Despite being city of 2.9 million residents, 500,000 transients, and 67,000 registered business establishments, Quezon City has one of the lowest police to population and fire fighter to population ratios in the country.

“We have been working to make up for the relative smallness of our police force by the City Government’s millions of pesos worth of donations to the Quezon City Police Department to improve their crime-fighting and prevention capabilities,” Bautista said.

“Over the years, we have been making continuing donations in the form of vehicles, both cars and motorcycles, gasoline subsidy, hand-held radios and other communication equipment, firearms and ammunition, as well as various other logistical support,” Bautista added.

He also sadi that the City government has even funded the on-the-job training of new police recruits, to help reduce the disparity in police per civilian ratio in the city, through a subsidy of Php 5,000 allowance per rookie cop.

“Our assistance has not been limited to the QCPD. We have donated firearms to the National Bureau of Investigation and to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology. The City Government has also donated fire-fighting equipment, fire trucks and even constructed fire stations for the Bureau of Fire Protection. I have directed the City Planning and Development Office to look for more properties where we can build additional fire stations,” Bautista said.

PC Supt. Eduardo Serapio M. Garado, NCR PO Chief agreed, stating that, among all local governments, Quezon City has given the biggest support to the Philippine National Police, in terms of various logistical resources. He also cited the fact that it is only Quezon City that has a local-government managed drug rehabilitation center.

The city’s drug rehabilitation center is located at the Diamond Hills area in Payatas. The mayor has ordered the expansion of the Rehabilitation Center to accommodate another 2-storey ward, with mess hall and multipurpose area enough for 180 people, and a staff house.

He also directed the City Planning and Development Office to look for a property that is at least 3,000 sqm, where the city government can build another rehabilitation center. As of now, Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, who is the anti-drugs czar of the city, the Tahanan is fully occupied, but those who really need confinement can go straight to Tahanan and be processed immediately, with no red tape.

(News Feature) Filipino Muslims celebrate Kalilang Festival with generosity

By Lorevie C. Dela Paz [(PNA), RMA/LOREVIE C. DELA PAZ-OJT/SSC]

MANILA (PNA) -- National Commission on Muslim Filipinos-National Capital Region (NCMF-NCR) organized a two-day event for all the Filipino Muslims in celebration of the ‘First Kalilang sa Metro’ during the Eid’l Adha observance in Quezon City Memorial Circle.

“Eid’l Adha is one of the two biggest festivities celebrated by the Muslims.” Said the Chairman of the First Kalilang sa Metro, Dir. Kim A. Edres.

Edres also said that during those times, Muslims were very generous.

They chose to celebrate the festival offering free services not only for the Muslims but for Christians as well.

Booths were open and offered free haircuts for children, body massage for the senior citizens and medical and dental service for everyone.

Aside from that, they offered their power food called dates which has been believed by the Muslims that when eaten in odd can boost someone’s energy and will stay full for a couple of hours.

The act of generosity proved that, “Muslims can live with anyone. They are also looking for peace.” said Edres.

Filipino Muslims also showcased their traditions and culture by presenting their own songs and dances, native dish cooking competition, playing ‘banggis’, and ‘Sagayan’ dance, the traditional way of welcoming guests.

Drainage pipe to be installed along Elliptical Road on September 20-25

(PNA), FPV/PR-DPWH/EDS

MANILA (PNA) -- Reinforced concrete pipes with 36 inches diameter will be installed at night time on September 20, 2016 across the five inner lanes of Elliptical Road in line with the drainage improvement works of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) at this major road in Quezon City.

DPWH National Capital Region (DPWH-NCR) Director Melvin B. Navarro announced that cutting of concrete pavement at the existing inner lanes one and two and half lane three of Elliptical Road fronting the Department of Agrarian Reform Office will start at 10p.m. on September 20, 2016 and will end 5a.m. the following day to minimize traffic inconvenience.

Cutting works at remaining concrete pavement of half lane three and lanes four and five will continue on September 21, also from 10p.m.to 5a.m..

Navarro has assured that necessary barricades and signages will be installed including the deployment of flagmen to help manage vehicular traffic.

Breaking, excavation, sand bedding, laying of reinforced concrete pipe culvert with a total length of 19 meters, collaring, backfilling, compaction, and installation of metal sheet plate will be done on September 22 involving lanes one , two, and half lane three and will continue at half lane three and lanes four and five on September 23 all during night time between 10p.m. to 5a.m.

Navarro said that the placement of 25 millimeter thick metal sheet plate will facilitate vehicle access until the road is restored back to its original form.

Accelerating admixture will be used in the full road restoration work of the five road lanes on Saturday evening, September 24 with a one full Sunday, September 25 allotted for the curing period of newly poured portland cement concrete pavement before the affected lanes re-opens at 4a.m. on Monday, September 26, 2016.

(News Feature): Heneral Basa: an untold heroic story

By Derick A. Licop and Arianne D. Valdez [(PNA) RMA/Derick A. Licop and Arianne D. Valdez (OJT)/RSM]

MANILA (PNA) -- In this modern day era when the country is dealing with a lot of serious challenges, a new hero arose with high hopes of saving the children including their parents away from illiteracy.

Walking down the street wearing a dark black suit, yellow green cape complete with a mask and a capital letter “B” stitched on his chest, this new hero who introduces himself as Heneral Basa is armed not with a sword nor a gun but a pile of books and tons of stories waiting to be told by the eager ears of school and street children and even adults.

The costume is his way of earning the attention of the kids who were reluctant to sit with him along the sidewalk to do some reading.

Alicsair Troy Lacsaman, the man behind the superhero costume is a librarian in Quezon City Public Library who is filled with hopes to encourage the young people to engage themselves in books and hearten the parents to lead and support their children’s passion in reading.

The Heneral Basa Walk is an advocacy made by the Quezon City Public Library and Information Center for the belief that for every step that they take will alter kid’s perspective.

His crusade along with the other volunteers is to bring the library closer to community and their mission is to visit 142 public schools in QC, both elementary and high school, and to impart with them the delight of reading.

Heneral Basa is easy to recognize. He can be anywhere and he was once spotted riding in the MRT in his superhero attire engaging his co-passengers in a storytelling.

In situation like this, he explains that, shame and embarrassment were not important matters to think about as long as he is continuously working his sworn advocacy.

Each superhero possesses super powers. And what kind of powers does Heneral Basa has? He says he draws his super strength from the kids who love to hear stories from him.

At this point in time when people rarely visit libraries, Heneral Basa believes that it’s high time now to bring the library itself to the people. Because according to him, books are meant to be used and reused.

DICT holds ITU-ASEAN Workshop on Child Online Protection

By Aerol John B. Patena [(PNA), SCS/ABP/EDS]

MANILA, Sept. 15 (PNA) -- The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has organized a workshop on child online protection in coordination with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to strengthen its initiative to ensure a safer cyber-environment for the youth.

DICT Secretary Rodolfo Salalima said that the workshop, held in Quezon City from Sept. 13 to 14, is a manifestation of their commitment to the ITU-ASEAN Initiative on Developing a Strategy Framework for Child Online Protection.

“Our light shines the brightest when we dedicate and devote our lives and our time for our people and their children,” the secretary said in his keynote address as he urged participants to create better child protection policies.

For her part, Aurora Rubio, head of ITU Area for Southeast Asia, expressed her hopes that the workshop would be able to contribute and support ASEAN member countries to develop and implement effective national and ASEAN child online protection general framework and plans.

The workshop gathered ASEAN member states and invited representatives from organizations such as Stairway Foundation Inc., the Philippine National Police– Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), ECPAT Philippines, ICT Watch Indonesia, The Asia Foundation Philippines, Privacy Commission Philippines, and Child Protection Network Foundation Inc.

During the workshop, different Child Online Protection Initiatives in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam were shared, along with expert counsel from the invited organizations.

Participants were able to conduct consultations with the youth, their parents and teachers from participating schools in the area through the support of the Department of Education and Stairway Foundation Inc.

Atty. Maria Roda Cisnero moderated the module on the presentation of the recommendations for the Draft ASEAN Framework on Child Online Protection from the breakout groups, which included the youth. The workshop concluded with Rubio’s moderation of the multi-stakeholders’ panel discussions which gave further insight in moving Child Online Protection discussions toward better policies.

QC to implement new traffic scheme in South Triangle

(PAISO/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 14. (PIA)—The Quezon City government thru its Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) will implement a new traffic management scheme and re-rerouting plan in Barangay South Triangle in a bid to relieve traffic along Quezon Avenue up to Welcome Rotunda.

The new traffic management scheme, originally scheduled to start September 15, was postponed to a later date, according QC Public Affairs & Information Services Office chief Ares Gutierrez, posted on his Facebook account Wednesday, September 14.

The scheme which has been coordinated by the QC government with the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), involves the closure of u-turn slots along Quezon Avenue from West Avenue intersection to Edsa, and the opening of the intersection of Quezon Avenue corner Scout Borromeo and West 4th.

The scheme also provides for the implementation of a two-phase traffic signal system along Quezon Avenue – Examiner/Scout Albano Streets.

“Hopefully, with the new system, we can reduce the travel time from Quezon Avenue to Welcome Rotunda,” said Elmo San Diego, head of the city’s Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS).

Under the new traffic plan, there will be no right turns to:

• E. Lopez Street corner Samar Avenue and Tomas Morato
• GMA Network Drive corner Edsa and Samar Avenue
• Mother Ignacia corner Edsa, Scout Borromeo and Sgt. Esguerra
• Panay Avenue corner Dr. Garcia St., Roces, Scout Albano, Scout Borromeo, Scout Chuatoco, Scout Magbanua, Scout Reyes and Timog
• Scout Albano corner Quezon Avenue
• Scout Bayoran corner Sgt. Esguerra, Scout. Tuazon
• Scout Madriñan corner Scout Tobias, Scout Ybardolaza and Tomas Morato
• Scout Ybardolaza corner Sgt. Esguerra
• Sgt. Esguerra corner E. Lopez, Panay Avenue, Scout Borromeo and Timog

Meanwhile, there will no left turns to:

• E. Lopez corner Sgt. Esguerra
• Mother Ignacia corner E. Lopez, Samar Avenue, Scout Borromeo, Scout Madriñan, Scout Tobias and St. Esguerra
• Panay Avenue corner Dr. Garcia St., Roces Avenue, Scout Borromeo, Scout Chuatoco, Scout Magbanua, Scout Reyes, Scout Santiago, Sgt. Esguerra and Timog Avenue
• Scout Albano corner Panay Avenue
• Scout Bayoran corner Timog
• Scout Madriñan corner Scout Torillo and Scout Tuazon
• Sgt. Esguerra corner Mother Ignacia, Scout Bayoran, Scout Borromeo, Scout Ybardolza and Timog

Roads declared as no entry are Scout Tobias coming from Scout Borromeo and Sgt. Esguerra coming from 11th Jamboree.

If successful, San Diego said the DPOS will consider extending the scheme to adjacent barangays.

Among the barangays being considered are Paligsahan, Roxas, Laging Handa, Kamuning and E. Rodriguez, San Diego said.

The MMDA will be spending P1 million for the installation of traffic signal lights in areas covered by the new traffic management scheme, especially along the intersection of Scout Borromeo and West 4th.

“Ang gagawin natin dito ay isang malaking rotunda,” said San Diego.

At least 25 traffic advisories and 59 signages will be installed by the DPOS within South Triangle relative to the implementation of the new traffic management scheme.

The new traffic scheme at Barangay South Triangle forms part of the QC government’s effort to develop the area as a major tourist destination, especially Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, which is home to two of the country’s biggest broadcast networks.

QC to implement HIV/AIDS/STI education in public HS curriculum

(QC/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 13 (PIA) – The Quezon City Government will fully implement mandatory HIV/AIDS/STI education in all its 46 public high schools starting next school year.

Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista approved the mandatory inclusion of reproductive health in the city’s public high school’s curriculum.

According to the city government, the inclusion of reproductive health subject in the high school curriculum will increase the student’s level of awareness on areas of basic reproductive health and human sexuality, including the management and control of sexually-transmitted infections such as HIV/AIDS.

Included in the provision of reproductive health education are the reproductive health supplies in schools such as condoms.

Meanwhile, City Health Officer Dr. Verdades Linga said proper education on reproductive health, including demonstrations on proper use of contraceptives such as condoms to high school students is important to HIV/AIDS/STI education.

Linga also cited the importance on the need to promote condom use even in the workplace.

The city government also underscored the importance of establishing additional social hygiene clinics in the city to provide people living with HIV greater access to quality health service.

Based on the Philippine AIDS registry, some 613 cases were reported in QC from January to October 2015.

Celebrating Eid al Adha, strengthening family and friendly ties

By Clariza Jocel G. Raquiño and Ma. Katrina T. Hallare [CVL/JMC/CJGR and MKTH (OJT)]

MANILA, Sept. 12 (PNA) -- The scorching heat of the sun meant nothing to the thousands of Filipino Muslims who gathered at the Quezon Memorial Circle on Monday morning to celebrate Eid al Adha or the Islamic Feast of Sacrifice.

Muslim men wearing the taqiyah (round skullcaps) and women in their patterned hijab (veil) came from different parts of Metro Manila and converged at the Circle's Liwasang Aurora to pray together as one big family.

Sheik Al-Sheidick led the khutbah, a sermon reminding his brothers and sisters of their Islamic principles and values.

Eid al Adha celebrates Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to Allah. An angel however appeared and gave him a ram to sacrifice instead.

Around the world, Muslims celebrate the three-day feast by saying prayers at the mosque and by slaughtering cattle, goat, sheep or even camel as sacrifice.

In the Philippines, the Quezon City Muslim Consultative Council gathers Muslim families during the feast every year to pray and strengthen their faith together.

Muslims also take this holiday as an opportunity to bond and reunite with their families.

As the religious ceremony ended, the warmth of the sun was nothing compared to the warmth shared by families and friends, shaking hands, kissing each other's cheeks and exchanging hugs.

First PH makerspace opens at Miriam College

By Anna Leah E. Gonzales

The Philippines’ first integrated makerspace has opened at Miriam College in Quezon City, providing students and faculty with a collaborative workspace and state-of-the-art equipment and tools to support a new model of teaching and learning.

Miriam College-Henry Sy Sr. Innovation Center is described as the country’s first makerspace―a place for learning, exploring, discovering, designing, making, transforming, connecting, collaborating and sharing ideas within a campus. The opening of the markerspace coincides with the 90th anniversary of Miriam College, which used to be known as Maryknoll College until 1989. It is now an all-women’s school.

“It is here at the Miriam College-Henry Sy Sr. Innovation Center where we will follow a new model of teaching and learning, one that brings change and improvement to current school and classroom practices―much like what our pioneering and progressive Maryknoll nuns did when they established their first mission in Malabon in 1926,” says Miriam College president Rosario Lapus.

The center was designed by renowned architect Ed Calma and was built through a P100-million donation from Henry Sy Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Investments Corp., the holding company of the Sy family.

A daughter of tycoon Henry Sy, Elizabeth Sy is an alumna of Miriam College and is currently the president of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., which runs the hotel and accommodation business of the SM Group.

In a statement, Miriam College says MC-HSSIC gives students and faculty the opportunity and space to immerse themselves into 21st Century disciplines of Dream―design, robotics, engineering, entrepreneurship and mathematics.

Aside from the SM Group, other institutions that contributed to the development of the center are Emerson Electric (Asia) Ltd., Power Mac Center, Felta Multi-Media Inc., C&E Publishing Inc., Center for Culinary Arts Manila, British Council, Bato Balani Foundation Inc. and Bangkok University.

The markerspace features eight connected and creative learning spaces, including fabrication laboratory, instrumentation laboratory, engineering and electronics laboratory, multi-media laboratory, performance laboratory, kitchen and cafe, playloft and innovatrium.

Calma says the design of the whole structure represents a water ripple caused by a drop. It is “where innovative ideas are formed and would ripple outward,” the architect says. “The outer labs are incubators of ideas and ideas are worked on as they pass through critique and exhibition, and finally, presented in the center space [innovatrium] as final products.”

Miriam College says the markerspace is supported by an integrated program that will engage students in Steam (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) to Dream in preparation for fields of the future.

Emerson, a US-based technology and engineering company, contributed an instrumentation laboratory for MC-HSSIC.

The Emerson Instrumentation Laboratory is a learning space equipped with various tools for testing and conducting investigatory experiments. The facility is designed to teach students the fundamental concepts of pressure, distance and velocity, temperature and mass and weight.

Emerson says its partnership with Miriam College is part of the company’s advocacy to promote Stem, or science, technology, engineering and math education in the country.

The company has already signed partnerships with 12 universities and 12 K-12 schools and sponsored 20 scholars in partnership with AmCham Foundation.

“As a global technology and engineering leader, Emerson’s continuing success depends on being able to attract highly-skilled talents, especially in the Stem disciplines. Our donation and engagement with an educational institution like Miriam College provides us with a unique opportunity to encourage young women in particular, as well as others in the community, to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of Stem disciplines in modern life as well as to explore career opportunities in these fields,” says Emerson Philippines vice president and general manager Ed Boone.

“We believe supporting Stem education in the Philippines can greatly affect the country’s progress and development,” Boone asays.

Emerson which is based in St. Louis, Missouri, is a global leader in bringing technology and engineering together to provide innovative solutions for customers in industrial, commercial and consumer markets around the world.

The company is comprised of five business segments which include process management, industrial automation, network power, climate technologies and commercial and residential solutions.

In the Philippines, Emerson provides value-added solutions and services to customers in various areas of engineering, customer support, finance, marketing and business development, information technology and supply chain management. Emerson has 3,500 employees in the Philippines.

Maynilad offers free septic tank cleaning service

(MAYNILAD/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 10 (PIA) - Maynilad Water Services, Inc. is offering free septic tank cleaning services to its residential customers in select parts of Quezon City, Caloocan, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Malabon, Valenzuela, and Cavite this month of September.

Maynilad President and CEO Ramoncito S. Fernandez stressed that Maynilad’s sanitation programs help lessen pollution load into river systems. “We ask our customers to avail of this service, which comes at no extra cost. Their participation will contribute greatly in our effort to protect community health and the environment,” he said.

According to Maynilad, residential customers in the following areas can avail of the free service: Barangays Fairview and North Fairview in Quezon City; Brgys. 80 to 99 in Caloocan; Dampalit and Maysilo in Malabon; and Karuhatan, Malinta, and Marulas in Valenzuela.

Likewise, residential customers in the South may avail of this service particularly those from: Brgys. CAA, Daniel Fajardo, Ilaya, and Zapote in Las Piñas; Bayanan, Poblacion, and Sucat in Muntinlupa; Baclaran, Moonwalk, and San Isidro in Parañaque; Banalo, Campo Santo, Daang Bukid, Digman, Dulong Bayan, Kaingin, Ligas I to III, Mabolo I to III, Maliksi II and III, Molino I to IV, Molino VI, Panapaan I to VII, Real I and II, Tabing Dagat, Talaba II to VI, and Zapote I to V in Bacoor; Alapan I-A to I-C, Bucandala I-V, Buhay na Tubig, Malagasang I-A to I-F, Malagasang II-A and II-B, Malagasang II-D to II-G, Medicion I-A to I-D, Medicion II-A, II-C to II-F, Palico II to IV, Poblacion II-A and II-B, Poblacion III-A and III-B, Poblacion IV-C and IV-D, Tanzang Luma I to VI, Toclong I-A and I-B, and Toclong II-B in Imus; Balsahan-Bisita, Magdalo, Marulas, Panamitan, Poblacion, Pulvorista, Samala-Marquez, Santa Isabel, Tabon II and III, Toclong, Tramo-Bantayan, and Wakas II in Kawit, Cavite; Magdiwang, Salcedo I and II, San Antonio II, San Jose II, San Juan II, San Rafael II, and Santa Rosa I in Noveleta, Cavite; and Kanluran, Muzon II, Poblacion, Sapa III, Silangan I and II, and Wawa II and III in Rosario, Cavite.

Interested customers and for more information, please call the Maynilad Hotline 1626 or visit their website at www.mayniladwater.com.ph, and social media accounts (Twitter: @maynilad, Facebook: MayniladWater).

QC’s exclusive subdivisions to allow PNP operations

(The Standard)

Hundreds of homeowners associations in Quezon City, mostly in gated and exclusive subdivisions and condominiums, joined forces to support the city government’s effort to curb the drug problem.

In a statement, the city government said members of the Alliance of Quezon City Homeowners Association, Inc (AQCHAI) agreed to cooperate with the Quezon City Anti-Drug Abuse Advisory Council (QCADAAC), the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) and the barangays in the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign.

In Wednesday’s meeting with the QCADAAC chaired by Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, the homeowners volunteered to draft guidelines or protocol that can be used by law enforcers in their drug operations in villages and condominiums. AQCHAI will submit the proposed guidelines to QCADAAC on September 16.

After the adoption of the guidelines or protocol, law enforcers may enter posh villages such as White Plains, Corinthian, Xavierville and St. Ignatius to conduct anti-drugs operations.

AQCHAI president Gloria Soriano said homeowner groups will help the Philippine National Police make the country drug-free and crime-free.

“We overcame our prejudice against police because of their renewed commitment to stamping out drugs, thus, we will give our full cooperation,” Soriano said.

In the past years, police had a hard time entering posh villages to serve warrants of arrest or conduct legal searches due to policies of exclusivity of the gated subdivisions.

But with the support and consent of homeowners associations led by the 91-member AQCHAI, the anti-illegal drug operation, aimed to maintain peace and order and crimeless subdivision, can be conducted inside the member subdivisions by just following the set of guidelines or protocol.

QCPD director Senior Supt. Guillermo Eleazar said the continuing drug operations in the city has tremendously decreased crimes including rape, robbery, car theft and carjacking for the past two months.

However, Eleazar quickly noted that murder cases have increased by 208 percent.

Quezon City hosts int’l conferences

By Rio N. Araja

Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista announced plans to develop the city’s tourism attractions after the Singapore model to generate more jobs and trading opportunities, the local government announced.

The city is preparing to host the 3rd Global Mayoral Forum on the last week of September and the Metro Manila Tourism Summit on October 17 and 18, as well as the 2017 Asean Education Forum.

Former Tourism secretary Mina Gabor, one of the proponents of the tourism summit, was also present at the launch of the Quezon City’s new tourism campaign, bannered by the slogan “QC Welcomes You!”

At the launch, Bautista said the city will partner with business sector stakeholders in the creation and development of man-made tourist destinations in the city, such as hotels, restaurants, leisure parks and cyberparks.

He said he will incorporate some strategies adopted by Singapore when it launched its Green Campaign for the development of man-made tourist destinations. As part of the city government’s effort to boost its tourism, the mayor also underscored the need to take advantage of its sister-cities program, both local and international.

He noted the expansion of the Metro Rail Transit along Commonwealth Avenue now under way in which several trees lining the stretch of Commonwealth Avenue expected to be uprooted.

Bautista urged the members of the city council to formulate Green Urban Designs for their respective districts.

He cited the transformation of the old Kamuning Bakery to a green structure as a model.

“By elevating the city’s tourism industry, Quezon City hopes to create investment opportunities in its thriving, business-friendly environment,” the mayor said.

UP resurfaces in world’s top 400 universities

By Yuji Vincent Gonzales (INQUIRER.net)

The University of the Philippines (UP) has reemerged on the annual list of world’s top 400 universities by the London-based Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) released on Tuesday.

UP, which fell within the 401-410 bracket in 2015, placed 374th this year, making it the lone Philippine university in the top 400.

The country’s premier state university ranked 367th in 2014, 380th in 2013, and 348th in 2012. It also placed 70th in the Asian university rankings.

UP improved in three QS metrics—academic reputation, faculty-student ratio, and international faculty ratio.

Three other Philippine universities figured in this year’s published rankings, namely Ateneo De Manila University (501-550), De La Salle University (701+) and University of Santo Tomas (701+).

De La Salle was hailed as the Philippine university with the most impactful researchers as determined by citations per faculty and lone Philippine university to improve its rank for employer reputation.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology retained its standing as the world’s best university for the fifth consecutive year, followed by Stanford University and Harvard University.

Rounding up the top 10 are University of Cambridge, California Institute of Technology, University of Oxford, University College of London, ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Imperial College London and University of Chicago. TVJ

SSS launches photo exhibit for 59th anniversary celebration

(SSS)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 6 - The Social Security System (SSS) opened its photo exhibit featuring highlights on SSS financial performance, programs and achievements to commemorate the 59th SSS anniversary of the pension fund, which kicked off its month-long celebration on September 1 with the theme “SSS @ 59: Kaagapay at Kabalikat sa Pagbabago.”

Photo shows SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio S. de Quiros, Jr. lead the ribbon-cutting during the launch of the photo exhibit, which is situated at the lobby of the SSS main office in Quezon City. The exhibit will be open to members and the general public.

Also in photo are (from left) SSS Senior Vice President (SVP) for Luzon Operations Group Josie G. Magana, SVP for Information Technology Management Group Joel A. Layson, Vice President for Public Affairs and Special Events Division Marissu G. Bugante, SVP for National Capital Region Operations Group Jose B. Bautista, Executive Vice President for Investments Sector Rizaldy T. Capulong, Chief Legal Counsel and SVP for Legal Services Division Voltaire P. Agas, SVP for Controllership Group Elvira G. Alcantara-Resare, SVP for Administration Group May Catherine C. Ciriaco, SVP for Account Management Group Judy Frances A. See and SVP for Central Processing Group Josefina O. Fornilos.

QC launches new tourism campaign – details here

By Vernise L. Tantuco (Rappler.com)

Mayor Herbert Bautista unveils Quezon City's new tourism slogan, website, and activity maps

MANILA, Philippines – As part of its efforts to get people to explore the city and its landmarks, Quezon City launched on Monday, September 5, a new tourism campaign, complete with a slogan, website, and activity maps.

The slogan, "QC welcomes you!" or "Welcome sa QC!" highlights the word "Welcome," an acronym for "Walk, enjoy, learn, celebrate, overnight, meditate, eat – and shop."

Meanwhile, lists of things to do in QC are available on the website QCTourism.net and on printed activity maps.

At the September 5 launch, a few copies of an activity map, under the "Learn" category were handed out, though all maps will be unveiled at the 3rd Global Mayoral Forum, which Quezon City is hosting for the first time on September 29 to October 1.

The "Learn" map features 16 tourist spots in QC, including the QCX interactive museum, the Ninoy Aquino monument, and the Ateneo Art Gallery.

The Global Mayoral Forum will have 100 foreign delegates, including mayors and leaders from the tops cities in the world.

Quezon City has been investing in their tourism recently, through initiatives like the QCX interactive museum and the annual QC Food Festival along Maginhawa Street.

Bautista says his plans for QC's tourism has been fashioned after what he's observed in his visits to other countries, including Singapore and Switzerland.

"We know that Quezon City doesn't have much resources – we don't have mountains, we don't have beaches... In the series of conferences that I've attended to, on various topics, whether it's on health or disaster management, or on the environment, I always make it a point to ask, 'What makes that particular place or country viable for tourism?'"

Bautista, who was inspired by Singapore and Switzerland, plans on investing in more greenery, improving street signs and lane markings, and having a "history trail" – marked out landmarks that tourists can follow to explore the city.

The mayor has also given instructions to the city council to approve an Urban Design Ordinance to "define" several areas in QC, through projects like restoring and repurposing old buildings.

Quezon City is also set to host the Metro Manila Tourism Summit on October 17 to 18.

Safety and security

When asked about the safety in the city, Bautista told Rappler in an interview after the launch that there have been efforts into keeping tourists and visitors secure, like investments into CCTV cameras, and in the future, better lighting and parking spaces.

"We have also established a tourism police, that's why we're requesting for additional download of personnel. Naging intense ang QC police only in areas like Cubao and Eastwood, in Tomas Morato dapat magkaroon niyan, atsaka Katipunan (The QC police has become intense only in areas like Cubao and Eastwood, but there should be more in Tomas Morato and Katipunan)," added Bautista.

The areas Bautista mentioned are among the most crowded in the city, with their many malls, restaurants, theaters, and events. Katipunan, a large main road, is also home to many schools, including the University of the Philippines and Ateneo de Manila University.

The areas have had their fair share of crime and accidents in the past.

Herbert Bautista and his brother Hero were recently on the receiving end of a number of complaints from the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC), including dishonesty and negligence. This, after Hero tested positive for marijuana and shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) in a voluntary drug test

In a statement sent from Switzerland a day after the complaints were filed, Herbert said that he is not and will never be involved in the illegal drug trade.

Fave Pinoy comfort food haven now in Timog

(The Standard Lifestyle)

A year ago, Visayas Avenue witnessed the birth of a Pinoy gastronomic wonder— Ka Tunying’s Café. The hard-hitting Kapamilya News Anchor, Anthony “Ka Tunying” Taberna Jr., owns the restaurant.

Built by the Taberna family’s love for Filipino cuisine, KTC gained its popularity. Cravings for Filipino dishes with a twist made the number of regulars grow. Their fascination for KTC’s food reaches Filipinos overseas, that’s why they make sure KTC is their first resto-stop when they arrive home.

A year ago, Visayas Avenue witnessed the birth of a Pinoy gastronomic wonder— Ka Tunying’s Café. The hard-hitting Kapamilya News Anchor, Anthony “Ka Tunying” Taberna Jr., owns the restaurant.

Built by the Taberna family’s love for Filipino cuisine, KTC gained its popularity. Cravings for Filipino dishes with a twist made the number of regulars grow. Their fascination for KTC’s food reaches Filipinos overseas, that’s why they make sure KTC is their first resto-stop when they arrive home.

Their official page on Facebook and Instagram namely Ka Tunying’s Café, is a proof that kababayans worldwide surely want to satisfy their KTC cravings. There are even some netizens who tagged KTC as one in their bucket list. With this growing number of requests, the Taberna power couple, Mr. and Mrs. T, did all they could to put up another branch to accommodate the public’s demand and to give home to a larger number of patrons, hence, the birth of Ka Tunying’s Café—Timog.

Ka Tunying’s Café in Timog had a soft opening on July 27. This second branch is a proof that KTC continuously upholds their ideals of serving food that Pinoys love; food that makes you reminisce your childhood and food that makes you miss luto ni nanay. That’s why the team makes constant effort to recreate classic Pinoy cuisine with a twist.

During the grand opening, KTC gave a teaser of their upgraded menu: they have new ulam (viand), miryenda (snack) and palamig (drinks) that will tickle your taste buds from breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner or even miryen-dinner (mid snack mid dinner). You can tell the Pinoy twist just by reading the names of their new dishes; “May Asim Pa Ako” –Bulalo (Kansi), Pusit Bicolano (Squid Stuffed Bicol Express), Sinigang na Ulo ng Salmon sa Kamias, Grilled Pork Chop Sinigang and Kalma Lang Mare, Calamares! and other creatively named Pinoy food that will be officially available on their menu this September. Their Palamig series will also tickle your curiosity; Pag-Ibig, Ligaya, Paraiso, Sinag and other interesting names.

With this new branch sparks the rumor that Ka Tunying could be transferring to another network though rejected by Ka Tunying himself. Placing the café across the GMA Network complex just proves that when it comes to food, network rivalry is non-existent. In fact, the grand opening of the café was attended by different personalities from different TV Networks. What is the one thing that can unite them? Pinoy comfort food of Ka Tunying’s Café.

Ka Tunying’s team takes pride of their Filipino touch and as proof, all of their ingredients are locally sourced; to support the local products and promote the goodness of our own cuisine. Also, as a very Pinoy custom, they gave away Tinapay Take Home or pabalot to all the guests of the Grand Opening of the new branch; a very hospitable pinoy trait of saying “Salamat po” to the guests.

Check out the Timog branch on the Upper Ground floor of Caswynn Building #134 Timog Avenue, Quezon City.

PDEA strengthens ties with international counterparts

(PDEA/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY (PIA) – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) strengthens its ties with its international counterparts as PDEA chief Director General General Isidro S. Lapeña recently met with international counterparts based in the Philippines to further strengthen the climate of cooperation and partnership among them.

The gathering was attended by counterparts from Australia, Canada, China, Great Britain, Japan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Republic of Korea, Russia, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office-Republic of China, Thailand and United States of America (USA).

“Beside nurturing inter-country cooperation, another goal of the meeting is to bring together PDEA officials, drug law enforcers, and officers of foreign embassies here in the country, to familiarize them with the country’s drug situation and present the strategic, thrusts and programs of the national anti-drug campaign”, Lapeña said.

Local counterparts and representatives of the Philippine National Police (PNP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Department of National Defense (DND), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) also attended the meeting.

The PDEA chief added that the Agency is building international partnerships by holding pro-active multi-lateral meetings with other countries to address the pervading drug problem that greatly affects everyone regardless of race and nationality.

DENR: New air quality monitoring system in Metro Manila now in place

(DENR/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 2, (PIA)—A new air quality monitoring system in Metro Manila is now in place in 13 strategic locations in the metropolis.

The Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR), through its Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), can now provide residents with the most up-to-date information about the air they breathe straight from the monitoring stations.

EMB Director Gilbert Gonzales said they will intensify the information campaign against air pollution by providing regular updates to the public about pollution levels using various media like television, news websites and LED advertising displays.

Gonzales said the data gathered from the air quality monitoring stations will assist local government units (LGUs) in dealing with air pollution problems and help residents avoid the most dangerous air quality situations.

"By providing fast, accurate and regular updates on how good or bad the air is, local chief executives are better informed to make sound decisions in improving air quality in their areas of jurisdiction. The public is also advised of what they can do in cases when air quality gets really bad and affect their health," Gonzales said.

The DENR has already finished installing continuous ambient monitoring stations (CAMS) in 13 LGUs across Metro Manila, giving the public real-time measurement of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM 10), also known as particle pollution, and parameters like wind speed and direction.

Particle pollution includes fine particles that mainly come from motor vehicles, wood burning heaters and industry. During bushfires or dust storms, particle pollution can reach extremely high concentrations.

Gonzales said the DENR's focus is on the PM10 and PM 2.5 because of their health implications. Numerous studies have showed associations between exposure to particles and increased hospital admissions as well as death from heart or lung diseases.

The EMB-National Capital Region, which is in charge of monitoring and maintenance of all air monitoring stations, recently signed memorandums of agreement with Water Environment Association of the Philippines Inc., SM Supermalls, Megaworld and Star Petroleum Retailers Association Inc. for the adoption of CAMS as part of their corporate social responsibility or CSR activities.

According to EMB-NCR Director Vizminda Osorio, the partner donors donated data loggers that will be installed in the CAMS to record and transmit data to EMB headquarters or operation center for processing and dissemination to the public.

"We welcome partnerships with local government units, private sector and industry organizations to help us ensure that each monitoring station is well-maintained and data are maximized for public information,” Osorio said.

Each monitoring station provides an Air Quality Index (AQI), which is a color-coded tool for telling the public how clean or polluted the air is, and recommending steps people can take, if necessary, to reduce their daily exposure to pollution.

When the AQI is in green, it means that the air quality is good; yellow means fair; light brown for unhealthy for sensitive groups (children, the elderly and peope with cardio-pulmonary diseases); red for very unhealthy; and purple for acutely unhealthy.

If the index reaches light brown, red or purple, the public is advised to stay indoors and limit outdoor activity.

The monitoring stations are located in the following areas: Hall of Justice, Open Ground, Marikina City Hall; Caloocan City Hall Annex, North Caloocan; Don Bosco Barangay Hall, Parañaque City; Pateros Elementary School, San Pedro, Pateros; Malabon Polytechnic Institute, Malabon City; Navotas City Hall, M. Naval Street, Navotas City; Rohm and Hass Warehouse Compound, CAA Road, Las Piñas City; Bilibid open ground compound, Muntinlupa City;

TUP Taguig Campus, East Service Road, Western Bicutan, Taguig City; Danny Floro Street, Oranbo, Pasig City; Plaza Hardin, Martinez Highway, Addition Hill, Mandaluyong City; PAL Compound, Pasay City; and Pinaglabanan Shrine along Pinaglabanan Street, San Juan City.

BJMP sets up barangay-based drug rehab

(PNA), RMA/AMD/EDS

MANILA (PNA) -- The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has organized a barangay-based rehabilitation program for the behavior-shaping of inmates of Barangay Old Balara, Quezon City.

“This is one of BJMP’s contributions to the President’s war against drugs,” Jail Director Serafin P. Barreto, Jr., BJMP’s new Chief and the brainchild of the rehabilitation program.

BJMP started training volunteers who were also citizens from the same barangay using a Therapeutic Community Modality Program (TCMP) model for the behavioral setting of inmates.

“The orientation and training of volunteers will run for five (5) weeks using the TCMP program,” Jail Senior Supt. Felixberto Jagorin, Jr., Director for Inmates' Welfare and Development and head of BJMP' Therapeutic Community Modality Program (TCMP), said.

TCMP program assimilates self-help and mutual help learning treatment model to enable behavioral and attitudinal change of the individual involved in the use of illegal drugs especially those suffering from Substance Use Disorders (SUD). It involves a multi-phased outline of treatment that assesses, monitors and prepares the individual for his reintegration to the community.

“We believe that TCMP will be effective in the rehabilitation of illegal drugs users in the country and BJMP wants to share it with the community”, Barreto said.

Barretto also explicates that the implementation of the barangay-based rehab program involves different government agencies including the Department of Education – Alternative Learning System, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Health, Department of Justice, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Labor and Employment, and the Philippine National Police.

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