Zamboanga City News April 2017

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Zamboanga City - Archived News

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.
Limpapa Beach.JPG
Limpapa Beach

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.

100 inmates in Zamboanga complete skills training

By Bong Garcia (SunStar Philippines)

THE Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) announced on Saturday the completion of the five-day skills training that benefited 100 inmates at the Zamboanga City Reformatory Center (ZCRC).

ZCRC warden Ervin Diaz said the skills training, which started on April 25, included courses in electrical wiring, arch welding, engine tune-up auto mechanic, and carpentry. Each course has 25 inmate-graduates.

Chief Inspector Diaz said the training would enable the inmates acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, understanding, and proficiency in their respective courses.

The ZCRC warden said the training was a joint project of the BJMP and the Zamboanga City State Polytechnic College-Extension Services Unit.

DTI organizes Halal Consumers Group in Zamboanga City

By Teofilo P. Garcia Jr. (PNA)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, April 29 -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has spearheaded the organization of the Halal Consumers Group to advocate its development and promotion in this city.

DTI Provincial Director Ceferino Rubio on Saturday said the advocacy was to ensure the welfare and protection of consumers particularly on the existing halal-certified products.

Rubio said the local "Halal Consumers Group" was organized during a meeting held on Thursday at the DTI conference room which was attended by Muslim leaders and officials from the public and private sectors.

Elected as officers of the local Halal Consumers Group were Raphy Ayub, chairperson; Bazer Jainal, vice-chairperson; and Cerna Ahmad-Ayub, secretary.

Jamir Omar Abubakar, DTI Provincial Consumer Protection Division chief, explained during the meeting the salient features of Republic Act No. 10817 otherwise known as the "Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act of 2015".

The new law aims to make the Philippine halal export industry more competitive in the global market, said Abubakar.

Rubio’s office has committed to assist the newly-organized Halal Consumer Group by identifying programs and projects for the group.

The Halal Consumer Group plans to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and extends its invitation to future members interested to assist and advocate halal development and promotion.

Zamboanga lifters win 12 more golds in PRISAA

By Jean T. Malanum (PNA)

IBA, Zambales, April 27 -- Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) grabbed 12 more gold medals in weightlifting on Thursday in the 2017 Private School Athletic Association (PRISAA) at the Zambales Sports Complex here.

Asian Youth and Junior Championships silver medalist, Dessa delos Santos, and bronze medalist, Kristel Macrohon, ruled the women’s 58 kg. and +69 kg divisions, respectively.

Delos Santos, daughter of many-time SEA Games champion Alvin delos Santos, topped the women’s 58 kg. category after lifting 80 kg. in snatch and 90 kg. in clean and jerk for a total of 170 kg.

Macrohon registered 60 kg. in snatch and 85 kg. in clean and jerk for a total of 145 kg. to win the gold in the +69 kg. category.

Margaret Colonia and MJ Calina added six more golds to the Western Mindanao region’s medal haul.

Colonia had a total lift of 161 kg. (71 kg. in snatch and 90 kg. in jerk) in the 69 kg. category, while Calina lifted 45 kg. in snatch and 60 kg. in clean and jerk for a total of 105 kg. to win the gold in the youth +63 kg. category.

Cebuano Elreen Ann Ando of Region 7 (Central Visayas), who is training under former national athlete Ramon Solis, pocketed the gold medal in the 63 kg. category. She lifted 86 kg. in snatch and 105 kg. in clean and jerk for a total of 191 kg.

LGU-Polanco gives financial assistance to irrigators association

By Alfonso T. Ruda (ALT/ATR/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)

POLANCO, Zamboanga del Norte (PIA)--- The local government unit of Polanco has completed the final payment of its committed financial assistance to the LASILELA Irrigators Association Inc.

In a simple turn-over ceremony held at the Mayor’s Office recently, LASILELA Irrigators Association president Rogelio Puyos received the check amounting to P240,000.00 from Polanco Mayor Evan Hope Olvis as financial assistance to the farmers.

It may be recalled that last year, LGU-Polanco committed to shoulder 30% of the LASILELA Irrigators Association’s P4-million irrigation project.

“The local government of Polanco immediately gave P1-million as partial financial assistance to LASILELA Irrigators Association to show its sincerity to support the improvement of farmers’ productivity,” said Alvin Christian Dequizo, National Irrigation Administration information officer.

During the turn-over ceremony, Puyos expressed his gratitude to Mayor Olvis for his all-out support to the farmers and vowed to protect the irrigation canal project, being the heart of their farming profession and help the food sufficiency campaign of the Duterte Administration.

Mayor Olvis, in his message, commended the effort of the farmers to improve their production and seek assistance from the LGU as he expressed his willingness to extend any support available to them. He also urged the farmers to stay united and protect the project as a very vital component in the farming industry.

The LASILELA Irrigators Association Inc., covers the barangays of Lapiyahangbaha, Silawi, Letapan and Labrador with 340 member-farmers tilling more or less 187 hectares of riceland.

Zamboanga City holds disaster risk reduction training

By Bong Garcia (SunStar Philippines)

SOME 300 people participated in a three-day training-workshop on the implementation of community-based disaster risk reduction and management held in Zamboanga City on Tuesday, April 25.

The three-day activity, participated by representatives from different villages and other sectors, aims to empower the villages and to prepare them for emergency response in times of disasters or any eventuality.

The training, which is set to end on Friday, April 28, was organized by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in partnership with other concerned agencies. The activity is also part of the disaster-preparedness program of the city.

Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar cited the essence of the training-workshop stressing that in this time of uncertainties, it is best that village officials and volunteers, being in the front line, are equipped with the knowledge and skills on emergency response.

She urged the participants to put to heart all the teachings during the training-workshop and to act accordingly during emergency situations being the local government’s action persons on the ground.

During emergencies, immediate help will have to come from the community itself, as government response teams cannot be at the scene instantly, she added.

Zamboanga City set to celebrate 'Dia de Mam Caling'

By Bong Garcia (SunStar Philippines)

THE Zamboanga City Government will spearhead activities for "Dia de Mam Caling" marking the 96th birth anniversary of the late Mayor Maria Clara Lobregat on Wednesday, April 26.

Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said the Jardin Maria Clara known as the Butterfly Garden in Pasonanca Park will be the center of activities that will kick off with a mass at the Holy Trinity Parish to be followed by the commemorative program Wednesday afternoon.

Salazar saaid the Chavacano-Pop Night competition will immediately follow.

A mural painting competition in commemoration of Dia de Mam Caling reeled off Monday, April 24, at the Jardin Maria Clara and will run until April 26.

This year’s Dia de Mam Caling is the 11th since the enactment of Ordinance 278 in 2006.

It is one of the City Government’s annual activities during the Summer season in honor of the late Mayor Lobregat, the first mayor to have served Zamboanga from July 1, 1998 until her demise on January 2, 2004.

Zambo hosts ‘Savores 2017’ culinary event

By Darwin Wally T. Wee (PNA)

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Visitors and residents here on Saturday were treated with a smorgasbord of unique cuisines and local delicacies at a culinary event dubbed “Savores 2017”.

Savores, Chavacano term for flavor, now on its second year, is being carried out by the Department of Tourism (DOT), City Tourism Office, and the Hotel and Restaurant Association Zamboanga City.

“Tourist tend to go to a certain place when there is a good and unique food being offered, and Zamboanga is very rich when it comes to cuisines because of our diversity,” DOT Regional Director Antonio Fernando Blanco told the Philippines News Agency at the opening of the culinary event.

With positive results during last year’s Savores, Blanco said they have decided to make it a yearly event.

Aside from exhibiting the rich and diverse flavors or culinary specialties in this city, the culinary affair also “hopes to improve culinary tours and develop the product for promotion to help increase local and international travelers’ awareness and somehow influence them to change their perception of Zamboanga City as a dangerous place,” the DOT said in its brochure.

It also “serves as launching pad of Zamboanga as one of the most unique culinary destinations in the country and known not just locally but worldwide”.

At least 14 local restaurants showcased their unique food specialties.

Visible is Zamboanga’s iconic curachas (deep-sea crabs) that were steamed and sautéed in coconut milk. Leading the pack is the Alavar Seafoods Restaurant, which is known for its widely popular “deep-con salsa de Alavar”.

Others experimented by having the curachas’ deep fried and mixed as among the toppings for Italian pasta.

“There are many ways on how to cook the curacha. We decided to deep fry it,” said Mike Vergara of “Chef Mikoy Catering Services”.

Seasoned chef Leo Cadio Alfaro widened his repertoire by infusing local herbs known as “Paku” sprinkled generously with olive oil and “Pinakurat” (a concoction of vinegar and varied spices).

Alfaro also came up with baked clams, but not the usual cooked with butter but tomato sauce. “I keep on experimenting. Mixing and tweaking conventional food,” he said.

Moro cuisines from nearby island provinces also took center stage at the event.

Bay Tal Mal, which is originally from the island province of Basilan, unleashed several traditional and mix Malay food such as Beef Kulma (or beef curry), and Chicken Pianggang (sautéed with coconut milk, herbs, and spices).

Another Moro-inspired restaurant Boz Cafe and Resto also showcased its diverse culinary know-how focusing on Muslim halal cuisines influenced by Malaysian and Indonesia tastes.

Among the mouthwatering offerings are Mi Goreng, the traditional Malaysian noodle, but with a local twist, and Chicken Satay - skewered chicken nuggets cooked in coconut milk, lemon grass, and turmeric.

Local delicacies were also highlighted such as Jacquiline Atilanos’s special taho (soybean curd) with flavors that varies from pandan, mocha to cherry.

Zambo allocates PHP12M for construction of 'BOSS' building

(PNA), TPGJR/R.G.ANTONET A. GO

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PNA) - The city government has allocated PHP12 million for the construction of the Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) building to further enhance the ease of doing business in the locality.

Benjie Barredo, City Permits and Licensing Division (CPLD) chief, on Friday said the BOSS building will either be constructed at the Plaza del Pilar or at the Sunken Garden area.

The Plaza del Pilar is located beside the centuries-old Fort Pilar Shrine while the Sunken Garden is at the waterfront public market.

Barredo said the completion of the BOSS building will hasten the process of doing business since it will house in one place the CPLD as well as representatives of other agencies involved in the processing of business permits and licenses.

Aside from the CPLD, the other city government offices involved in business permits and licenses processing are the agriculture, veterinarian, tourism, administrator, treasurer, health, engineer and planning and development as well as the Bureau of Fire Protection.

“This [BOSS building] will improve our service and will help business registrants and entrepreneurs save time, effort and money since they will just have to go to one place to process the needed documents,” Barredo said.

Previously, the personnel of the CPLD and the other agencies composing the BOSS temporarily hold office at the Centro Lantino Convention Hall of Paseo del Mar from January 2 to 20 every year in time for the renewal and application of business permits and licenses.

Barredo said the City Engineers’ Office is now preparing the plan for the construction of the BOSS building.

Zambo govt, Popcom partners for the youth

By RG Antonet Go

The city government of Zamboanga and the Commission on Population -9 (POPCOM-9) have signed an agreement to ensure the delivery of vital services to the youth by enhancing communication with this sector.

The program, called the Information and Service Delivery Network for Adolescence (ISDN-A,) aims to address youth-oriented issues on health, work, training, sexuality, information and others.

The partnership agreement was signed at the Grand Astoria Hotel last Thursday.

“Bubuo tayo ng matibay na nagcri-crisscross na referral system, parang 911 ng adolescent health na naka focus sa kanilang kabuuan bilang kabataan. Gusto natin maging active sila ,” said Reynaldo O. Wong, Popcom-9 Regional Director.

The program aims to have the Zamboanga City Youth Development Office as the foundation of the network.

POPCOM-9 and the Zamboanga government also aims to use all possible means to include text, social media, websites and other technology to reach the youth.

The program will also be implemented in other provinces and cities in the region after signing ceremonies last Thursday in Zamboanga city.

Thousands of jobs up for grabs in DOLE Mega Jobs Fair

By Dominic I. Sanchez (ALT/DIS/PIA9-Zamboanga City)

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) here announced the conduct of a “mega jobs fair” on Labor Day, May 1 at the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU). The jobs fair will open thousands of local and overseas jobs, and many job seekers could be hired on the spot like in last year’s jobs fair.

Ms. Gay Iris Tangcalagan, DOLE information officer said that “interested job seekers must pre-register with the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) as early as now.”

“If you choose to register on the day, it will really take much of your time,” she stressed.

Tangcalagan explained that job seekers will have to fill up a Skills Registry System (SRS) form which will be encoded into the PhilJobsNet system.

“If you are registered with PhilJobsNet, it will be easier for the PESO to refer you to jobs based on the skills and qualifications you have identified,” she said adding that the PESO will contact the job seeker if a vacancy turns up.

Once the job seeker is already registered, he or she will only have to present the registration stub and proceed directly to the employers for the interview.

Tangcalagan meanwhile encouraged fresh graduates to join and apply in the jobs fair.

“The tendency with fresh graduates is that they still have hangover from school, and they may not look for jobs seriously. But they should take this time to review their skill sets and produce quality resumes, and be physically and emotionally ready for interviews,” she said.

Tangcalagan said that region 9 has an abundance of job opportunities, particularly in the agriculture-fishery industry, yet many do not land jobs because they lack the necessary skills. Based on a DOLE survey, very few students take up agri-fishery courses in college.

“We have many job opportunities, but many of the graduates’ skills do not match with the employers’ needs,” she said.

DOLE, in partnership with PESO and the schools and universities have been conducting career guidance sessions for graduating high school students. “It is very crucial to identify their skills early so when they reach college, they will know what course to take, and eventually land a job immediately after they graduate,” she said.

DOT, city gov't to host ‘Savores 2017’ culinary event in Zambo

(PNA), TEOFILO P. GARCIA JR.

ZAMBOANGA CITY, April 19 (PNA) - The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the city government have partnered again to promote "culinary tourism" following its successful introduction last year.

On Saturday, they will hold “Savores 2017” at the Centro Latino Conventional Hall, which would feature talents and skills demonstration of participating exhibitors from the food production sector and iconic restaurants.

Savores, a chavacano term meaning “flavors," is principally organized by the city government, DOT regional office and the Hotel-Restaurant Association of Zamboanga City (HRAZC).

DOT regional director Antonio Fernando Blanco on Wednesday said two activities will be highlighted--food demonstration and dining experience--during the Savores 2017.

Blanco noted that this city boasts of "tremendous flavors and influences" from different countries such as Malaysia, China, Spain and Arab nations.

HRAZC president Bryan Go said the event will showcase talents, skills and unique fusion of flavors of Zamboanga’s bests.

Blanco said a media familiarization tour, organized by the Tourism Promotions Board and DOT regional office, will also be conducted from Friday to Sunday.

The tour component of the Savores event is to further promote this city’s tourism potential in terms of culinary experience.

The tour will focus on food processing demonstration involving iconic Zamboanga specialties.

With the support of all concerned stakeholders, Blanco said Zamboanga City "is set to change the mindset" of travelers, especially those who have not been to this city.

Meanwhile, Blanco’s office, together with the city government, HRAZC and allied organizations, is strengthening its partnership and convergence program to help boost tourism in this city.

Its campaign “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” will be played along with Zamboanga’s recent tourism campaign “I Love ZC (Zamboanga City).”

PNP beefs up security in tourist spots this summer

(PNA), TPGJR/DARWIN WALLY T. WEE

ZAMBOANGA CITY, April 18 (PNA) – Security measures have been strengthened in tourist destinations across the country to ensure the safety of vacationers this summer, a senior Philippine National Police (PNP) official said Tuesday.

Senior Supt. Eugene Paguirigan, PNP Directorate for Operations Public Safety Division chief, said that police officers deployed in key tourist destinations were also properly oriented on how to deal with tourists.

“Our main purpose here is to ensure that the tourists will feel safe and secure, especially this summer,” Paguirigan told the Philippines News Agency in an interview.

“We have 21 tourist police units in all key areas in the country,” Paguirigan said, adding they also created several Tourist Police Assistance Desks.

Paguirigan was in this city as a resource person in the three-day tourism awareness seminar for the Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOP-COP).

The PNP has reactivated “Oplan SumVac" (summer vacation) since the start of the month.

Policemen were ordered to be visible and alert to deter criminals from victimizing local visitors and foreign guests.

Part of the process is to ensure that policemen have the proper understanding on how to handle visitors.

“This is the main reason why the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the PNP have partnered to ensure that policemen will have substantial knowledge of tourism behavior and pattern,” said Ricardo San Juan, former DOT regional director and now a consultant of the agency.

Among the topics for discussions in the TOP-COP seminar are Philippine Tourism Overview, Values Formation and Effective Customer Service, Philippine History, Culture and Traditions, Child-wise Tourism and Child Protection Laws, and Police as First Responders.

Paguirigan said that since 2011, there are about 5,000 policemen who underwent the TOP-COP training.

“The policemen who underwent the training are given priority in the deployment during tourism events,” he said.

The efforts, he said, is also in preparation for the Philippines' hosting of the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit on April 26 to 29.

Zamboanga's ‘Fiesta na Isla’ kicks off

By Bong Garcia (SunStar Philippines)

SANTA Cruz Island, one of the world’s 21 best beaches, was the center of activities with the opening on Sunday of the “Fiesta na Isla.”

Zamboanga City mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said the activity will feature a wide-array of beach and land activities and entertainment for a total of eight weekends.

The opening of the festival drew hordes of picnickers and beach-combers from far and wide to Sta. Cruz Island, famous for its pink-white sands where nature is preserved for everyone to enjoy.

Salazar said its opening on Easter Sunday, April 16, capped the long weekend that reeled off with the observance of the Holy Week.

The festival includes a variety of games and competitions that include a video competition showcasing the island, human sand sculpture, three-on-boat racing, island race and mussel-eating competition among others.

The festival will also see the active participation of the community members featuring their diverse culture in songs and dances.

The “Fiesta na Isla” was organized by the Protected Area Management Unit of the Office of the City Mayor.

1,400 secondary students employed in gov't summer program

By Bong Garcia (BG /SunStar Philippines)

THE first batch of the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) beneficiaries will start working on Monday, April 17.

Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said the beneficiaries consist of 1,400 secondary school students, who have undergone orientation last week.

Salazar said they will work for a period of 20 days and each will receive a daily salary of P296, representing the 60 percent share of the local government.

SPES is a joint undertaking of local government units (LGUs) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

The LGUs will shoulder 60 percent of the salary of the beneficiaries while DOLE will pay the remaining 40 percent.

SPES is aimed to help poor but deserving students pursue their education by providing income or augment their income through encouraging their employment during summer or Christmas vacations.

Salazar said the students will be deployed to the different villages and government offices starting Monday, April 17.

She said they will be performing various work programs to include clean and green and beautification projects, surveys, barangay data updating, janitorial activities and office clerical jobs.

PCSO donates new ambulance for Red Cross

By Felipo David G. Malcampo

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) officially turned over Monday (April 10) a brand new ambulance to the Philippine Red Cross in the city.

According to PCSO Regional Director Raul Regondola, “this kind of assistance is not the first time and will surely not be the last donation of PCSO for their continued dedication to help provide the necessary mobility to transport patients in times of emergency.”

Meanwhile, Red Cross Governor and District 1 Congressman Celso Lobregat thanked the PCSO for their support in terms of medical equipment. Lobregat assured PCSO that the ambulance will truly be well-taken cared of and fulfill its purpose in the service of the Zamboangueños. (ALT/FDM/PIA9-Zamboanga City with reports from Dexter Yap)

Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge national finals set on April 22

(ALT-PIA9/Zamboanga Sibugay/MBFI Press Release)

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) -- The Metrobank Foundation, Inc. in partnership with the Department of Education and the Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines (MTAP) announces the schools which made it to the National Finals of the 2017 Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC).

Out of the 572,916 students who competed in the national elimination rounds, a total of 44 students from 28 public and private schools all over the country successfully advance to the competition’s final phase to be held on April 22, 2017 at the Metrobank Plaza Auditorium in Makati City.

“We want to congratulate our finalists as early as now for making it this far in the competition. With hard work and determination, you have surpassed expectations, bringing pride and honor to your respective schools,” said MBFI president Aniceto Sobrepeña. “Sixteen years after we started, Metrobank and Metrobank Foundation remain committed to providing a venue for the Filipino youth to hone their mathematical skills in an atmosphere of friendly competition,” he added.

Schools competing for the Grade 6 Individual Competition are: Agoo Kiddie Special School (Agoo, La Union); Special Education Center for the Gifted (Olongapo City); Palawan State University Laboratory Elementary School (Puerto Princesa City); St. John’s Institute (Bacolod City); Zamboanga Chong Hua High School (Zamboanga City); Mary Infant Jesus School (Iligan City); Ateneo de Davao University (Davao City); Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (General Santos City); Palanan Elementary School (Makati City); and MGC New Life Christian Academy (Taguig City).

For Grade 6 Team Competition, the competing schools are: Special Education Center for the Gifted (Olongapo City); Colegio San Agustin - Biñan (Biñan City); Palawan State University Laboratory Elementary School (Puerto Princesa City); Zamboanga Chong Hua High School (Zamboanga City); Butuan City SPED Center; Palanan Elementary School (Makati City); and St. Jude Catholic School (City of Manila).

For the Grade 10 Individual Competition, schools competing are: Philippine Science High School – CAR Campus (Baguio City); BHC Educational Institution, Inc. (San Fernando City, La Union); Mariano Ponce National High School (Baliuag, Bulacan); San Pablo City Science High School; Philippine Science High School – Western Visayas Campus (Iloilo City); Binalbagan Catholic College High School Department (Binalbagan, Negros Occidental); Zamboanga Chong Hua High School (Zamboanga City); Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology Integrated Development School (Iligan City); Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School (Quezon City); and Philippine Science High School – Main Campus (Quezon City).

And for the Grade 10 Team Competition, schools competing are: Ilocos Sur National High School (Vigan City); Maliwalo High School (Tarlac City); De La Salle University Integrated School (Biñan City); Aquinas University of Legazpi Science High School (Legazpi City); Philippine Science High School – Western Visayas Campus (Iloilo City); Binalbagan Catholic College High School Department (Binalbagan, Negros Occidental); Zamboanga Chong Hua High School (Zamboanga City); Philippine Science High School - Southern Mindanao Campus (Davao City); Bayugan National Comprehensive High School (Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur); and Philippine Science High School – Main Campus (Quezon City).

National winners will receive trophies, medals and cash prizes as follows: P25,000 for the 1st placer, P20,000 for the 2nd placer and P15,000 for the 3rd placer for the elementary level while P50,000 will be given to the 1st placer, P40,000 for the 2nd placer and P30,000 for the 3rd placer for the high school level amounting to a total of P540,000 worth of cash prizes.

MMC is the most widely participated math competition in the country among elementary and high school students. It is being organized by the MBFI, MTAP, and DepEd. The annual Math Challenge produces national winners who get to compete and eventually win in international competitions. Among them are Farrell Eldrian S. Wu and Kyle Patrick F. Dulay who reaped the first gold medals of the Philippines at the recent 57th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) held in Hong Kong.

NHA turns over 537 permanent shelters to Zambo siege victims

(PNA), TPGJR/RGAAG

ZAMBOANGA CITY, April 10 (PNA) - An official of the National Housing Authority (NHA) has assured the internally displaced persons (IDPs) of the 2013 siege here that the agency’s permanent shelter project is of good quality.

Engr. Al-Khwarizmi Indanan, NHA district manager, made the assurance Monday as he and Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar led the turnover of 537 housing units worth PHP167.8 million to the identified beneficiaries.

The 537 permanent shelters turned over Monday are located at the Vale Vista Subdivision, Phase 1, Barangay Kasangyangan, this city.

The houses were built through the Zamboanga Roadmap to Recovery and Reconstruction (Z3R), the government's blueprint for the rehabilitation of the areas affected by the 21-day September 2013 siege.

Phase 1 covers a total of 828 units. The 291 units were completed and turned over to the beneficiaries in December last year.

Indanan said that all the housing units built in Vale Vista Subdivision were properly inspected by the city housing office and the NHA.

Ayub Abubakar, one of the IDP beneficiaries, said he is happy that they now have their own permanent shelter. His family stayed for two years at the Masepla Transitory in Barangay Mampang.

“Our house at [Barangay] Zone 4 was burned [during the siege]. Only the posts were left. We are thanking the government and Mayor Beng [Salazar for this new house],” he said.

Uyada Iris Matarun, another beneficiary, said their hardship is now over, citing they had been transferring from one relative to another for refuge.

Matarun also thanked the government for giving them A permanent shelter.

Zambo city to observe Araw ng Kagitingan today

(LAJ)

The Zamboanga city local government will observe the 75th Araw ng Kagitingan or Day of Valor through a program to be held at the Freedom Fighters Shrine along Rizal Street today.

This year’s commemoration will have the theme “Ika-75 taon: Parangal sa mga Beterano Tungo sa Bayan na Nararapat sa Pilipino, Pilipino nararapat sa Bayan.”

In a City Hall statement, it said that Zamboanga Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco- Salazar with representatives from the Western Mindanao Command, the 3rd Air Division, the Philippine Coast Guard, Regional Police Command and the Veterans Federation of the Philippines-9 will lead the flag raising ceremony at 7am.

The flag raising ceremony will be followed by a floral offering at the shrine and messages to be delivered by the City Mayor and other special guests.

The program was organized by the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office in partnership with the Zamboanga City Veterans District.

Araw ng Kagitingan, also known as the Day of Valor marks the heroism and bravery of Filipino fighters who have fought against Japanese forces during World War 2.

It is a national memorial day for the brave soldiers who fought during the Fall of Bataan on April 9, 1942 during World War 2.

Fiesta na Isla reels off Easter Sunday

By Sheila Covarrubias

The Protected Area Management Unit (PAMU) will formally launch the Sta. Cruz Island Summer Festival dubbed as Fiesta na Isla on Easter Sunday, April 16 with exciting activities lined up for the celebration.

The Festival will span 8 weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) starting April 16 through March 13.

The event will feature various competitions and games intended to attract visitors and for families to enjoy Sta. Cruz Island, named as one of the 21 best beaches in the world by the National Geographics because of its unique pink-white sands.

A video competition showcasing Sta. Cruz island its famous pink sand is open for all amateur and professional videographers.

The various on- and offsite games will include the human sand sculpture, the 3-on-3 boat racing, the island race and the mussel eating competition.

“Fiesta na Isla” will also feature the community members who will be showcasing their many talents. The festival was earlier set to start on April 8 but was deferred one week later due to some technical concerns.

For more information, interested parties may contact the PAMU of the City Mayor’s Office through cell phone numbers 09272835684.

LGUs, NGAs undergo orientation on data privacy

By Emmanuel D. Taghoy (ALT/EDT/PIA9-Zamboanga City)

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) - Local government units, government offices and some of the academe in the Zamboanga Peninsula region have undergone orientation on the compliance of Republic Act 10173 or Data Privacy Act of 2012 initiated by the National Privacy Commission (NPC), together with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)-9 in Zamboanga City.

The activity, which is the third leg of several roadshows scheduled all over the country, seeks to provide a venue where LGUs can familiarize themselves with the fundamental data privacy principles, data privacy law and its implementing rules, as well as with the administrative policies issued by NPC.

Deputy Privacy Commissioner Dondi Mapa said, “the initiative will facilitate better delivery of government services to the public.”

Moreover, he said this will establish a network of cooperation among all local government units that will pledge loyalty to the highest standards of data privacy, which is in line with the trust ascribed by the Filipino people.

He also urged the attendees from the various sectors of the government to designate one or more data privacy officer, who will be responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations for protection of data privacy and security.

“Data is very important. If we do not protect that data, someone else may use it for illegal purposes such as opening a credit card, take bank loans, and even use PhilHealth benefits,” he said.

Giant mall developers eye investment in Zamboanga City

(PNA), TPGJR/DARWIN WALLY T. WEE

ZAMBOANGA CITY, April 6 (PNA) - The country’s big mall operators and developers are interested to locate in this southern port city, an official said Thursday.

“Previously, most of the investors in Zamboanga City are local [businessmen]. Now, we have a lot of investors coming from outside of the city, which slowly brings the confidence back,” Marie Angelique Go, city economic and investment promotion officer, told the Philippines News Agency.

Just right after the 2013 Zamboanga siege, two malls have opened here--the General Santos City-based Koronadal Commercial Corporation (KCC) and the City Mall Commercial Center, Inc. (CMCCI), a subsidiary of Double Dragon where SM Investments Corp. (SMIC) has a 34 percent stake.

Go, who is also the city administrator, said the local economy is bouncing back following the devastating effects of the 21-day September 2013 siege.

She said that SMIC has also entered into a joint venture agreement with the local Mindpro Citimall. SM would take over the operation of Mindpro and establish its first supermarket in this city, she added.

Go also confirmed that the Sy-led SMIC already bought a lot in this city for the possible construction of a new mall.

Talks are also ripe for the possible entry of S&R Membership Shopping, which is operated by Puregold Price Club, Inc.

Property giants Ayala Land, Inc. and Gokongwei-led Robinsons Land Corporation are also reportedly scouting for commercial areas for the possible construction of their malls in this city.

“With the current administration, we are open to outside players. In fact, data from the investment incentive board showed that most of the applicants are from outside of Zamboanga city,” Go said.

Since 2014, investments in this city have been increasing at five percent annually. In 2016, it generated at least PhP700-million worth of investment, records showed.

To prepare for future development, the city recently passed the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) that was designed by renowned urban planner Felino Palafox Jr.

Under the plan, it identified at least seven growth centers in this city: two in the west coast, four in the east coast, and in the central business district.

During the recent “Philippine Emerging Cities” at the 5th APAC Real Estate Investment Summit, Palafox identified Zamboanga City as among the “top emerging cities outside of Metro Manila” because of its huge potentials.

“I see a lot of development potentials for Zamboanga City. Dubai, like Zamboanga, is a port city. But unlike Dubai, Zamboanga is blessed with more natural resources,” Palafox declared.

Abong-Abong declared ‘walk-in park’ during Holy Week

(SunStar Philippines)

ZAMBOANGA City mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar has declared the Mayor Cesar C. Climaco Freedom Park in Mount Abong-Abong as “walk-in park” during the observance of the Holy Week.

The declaration was contained in Executive Orders (E.0.) 255 and 256 issued by Salazar to ensure the safe and solemn observance of the Holy Week.

Aside from “walk-in park,” E.O. 255 also impose a temporary traffic rerouting scheme on all roads leading to the Climaco Freedom Park in Mount Abong-Abong in the village of Pasonanca, north of this city.

Salazar said the declaration of walk-in park and traffic rerouting scheme is effective from 6 p.m. of April 12 to 6 a.m. to April 15 in the observance of the Holy Week.

E.O. 256 bans the sale and drinking of liquor, bringing of bladed weapons and firearms as well as backpacks and other similar items at the Freedom Park during the observance of Holy Week from April 12 to 15.

Salazar has also ordered the City Health Office and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office to include hygiene and sanitation as rules for the public to follow.

Thousands of Catholic faithful flock to the Climaco Freedom Park during Holy Week for the way of the cross at the foot of Pulong Bato in Mount Abong-Abong.

Several of them stay overnight on Holy Thursday and go home after the seven last words mass on Good Friday.

Zambo to participate in culinary, travel events

(LAJ)

Zamboanga city will participate in two major events, a culinary and a travel trade show, this April.

The city is one of the participants in the upcoming Madrid Fusion Manila scheduled from April 6 to 8 at the SMX Convention Center of the Mall of Asia.

The Madrid Fusion is described as one of the biggest gastronomic events in Asia featuring local and international flavors prepared by world-reknowned chefs.

The event is expected to highlight Zamboanga’s sumptuous dishes and delicacies and promote the city’s culinary products.

Meanwhile, the city is also slated to participate in the 2017 NAITAS Travel and Trade Show from April 7 to 9 at the first floor of the SMX Convention Center.

This is the second time that the city will participate in the Travel and Trade show.

City Tourism officials expect a boost in current tourist arrivals through participation in these two major events.

Madrid Fusion Manila is the first and only Asian edition of Madrid Fusion, the most important gastronomy event in the world, which is celebrated annually in Madrid, Spain since 2003.

The NAITAS Travel and Trade show on the other hand, is a travel, tourism and trade fair organized by the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies, Inc. (NAITAS.)

The event focuses on promoting outbound and inbound destinations and tourism allied products and services in partnership with the Philippine government through the Department of Tourism (DOT,) Tourism Promotions Board (TPB,) and the Tourism Infastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA.)

San Roque Bog Lake attracts visitors

By R.G ANTONET GO

The San Roque Bog Lake is attracting dozens of visitors coming from different parts of the city.

San Roque Barangay Captain Joselito Macrohon said that the area is slowly being known as a place where families can get together and enjoy.

Schools are also conducting educational tours in the area.

Macrohon said that the City Tourism Office is studying what assistance can be provided to the budding tourism destination.

“Para canamun successful kami cay ta anda el maga hente. El maga hente base na comments bonito el comments diila y looking forward sila si pwede man improve pa el faciities,” said Macrohon.

Bog Lake Recreation Park takes pride in being the first nature recreational park in Zamboanga city.

Among the amenities offered by the park are Zip line, Mini zoo, tree house, mini play ground, zorb ball, water walking ball, cottages, horse riding, fishing, fish feeding, and floating cottages.

A drone will also be available to capture the activities at the park.

The park is open from Friday to Sunday starting last January.

The project was started by the barangay last year where residents helped to beautify the area and the barangay also made do with available materials they can contribute.

Zambo joins nationwide earthquake drill

By Liza Jocson

The Philippine Ports Authority was the center of a nationwide simultaneous drill conducted yesterday in Zamboanga city.

Philippine Volcanology and Seismology Officer in Charge Engr Allan Labayog said that the office conducted a drill for the worst case scenario involving a tsunami to be generated by a strong earthquake.

The Philippine Ports Authority office is located within the seaport premises along the coastline of Zamboanga city.

Labayog said that the execution of the office’s disaster plan involves not only doing the duck and cover method but the immediate evacuation of employees for higher ground.

Based on the disaster plan, vehicles were assigned to bring at least 60 employes of the PPA to barangay Pasonanca, the evacuation area.

Labayog gave a passing mark to the agency for being able to execute the Disaster Preparedness Plan.

He however advised them to consider executing changes in their evacuation plan to Pasonanca due to the experimental traffic scheme that may cause delays to their travel time.

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