Zamboanga City News January 2015

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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.

ZABIDA: “A test of our commitment to peace”

By Nonoy E. Lacson

As an active civil society consortium who with its partner-members have been for many years involved in the peace process and socio-economic amelioration of local communities, the Zamboanga-Basilan Integrated Development Alliance, Inc. (ZABIDA) expressed its deep concern and apprehensions over the new crisis that imperils and complicates the hard-earned establishment of a new Bangsamoro autonomy as means to an enduring peace in Mindanao.

In a press statement emailed to Zamboanga Today last Thursday, ZAMBIDA President Fr. Angel Calvo the crisis is caused by the wholesale death of more than 40 members of the Philippine National Police’s Special Action Force (SAF) in an encounter with alleged men of the Moro

Islamic Liberation Front, despite its current ceasefire with the government, in Maguindanao province last Sunday, January 25.

“The magnitude and seeming brutality of the killings have stirred up a highly emotional response in many corners and levels of the nation calling for the suspension or outright termination of ongoing legislative and other efforts to grant the MILF a better system of political and other forms of autonomy. Fortunately, there are many more than the angry and cynical who continue to believe a peace deal with the Bangsamoro people, and therefore for Mindanao, is the only way forward, is urgent even more, is truly within our grasp now more than ever. We especially laud the steadfast commitment of President

Aquino and MILF chairman Ebrahim Murad to stay the course,” said Calvo.

“We also join the nation in condemning the unwarranted massacre of the policemen. The tactical lapses they and their commanders may have incurred while in the line of duty cannot justify the enormity and depravity that characterize their bloody fate,” he said.

“Every crisis presents an opportunity as well. Let not the lives of the over 40 SAF elite policemen be wasted on the altar of peace, and so too with the over 150,000 other lives sacrificed since the start of the Mindanao war. Instead, the crisis should test the commitment of all parties and constituents to the hard labors of peace-making, for this incomprehensible and ineffable tragedy to supercharge the forces of peace. To achieve this, we petition that:

For government to conduct an independent, thorough and prompt investigation of the incident so that the truth and findings about it may correctly inform the future action of people and communities in relation to their peace and security;

For the MILF to similarly conduct its own investigation to accurately determine the accountability of its men and organization and thereby facilitate the rendering of justice to all the aggrieved and offended;

For government to ensure that obligatory justice be given to the victims and their families, and for the nation as one to exert every means to bring speedy healing and closure to this painful and foul experience so that in solidarity with one another Mindanao and the nation shall carry on with the tremendous tasks and challenges of peace- and nation-building at this most critical of times.

For the past decades, Mindanao’s search for peace has seemed like Sysiphus’ stone, rolling down again and again just when it is about the reach the summit of success – and the Maguindanao massacre threatens to be such an experience anew. But like Sysiphus, every time we have to go back down to pick up the pieces, to roll up the stone again, we gained and continue to gain new strength of spirit to journey on towards our everlasting rewards. May this tragedy in our hands be such a fire in our hearts,” Calvo said.

Aquino commits P650M for Zamboanga

By Nonoy E. Lacson

Zamboanga City – President Aquino has pledged a commitment package amounting to P650 million to boost rehabilitation efforts of the city for the internally displace persons (IDPs) of the 2013 September siege and for other internal security measures of the city.

City Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco said that President Aquino has extended his commitment to assist the city with its needs and concerns, specifically for the ongoing rehabilitation efforts of the city and security.

According to Climaco, the President pledged additional funding for the construction of homes and utilities in transitory sites and a bridging fund that will ensure the well-being of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

The President extended P400-million for septic projects, P200-million to fund additional housing units and P50 million as bridging fund, the mayor enumerated.

She also reported that Mr. Aquino during his visit here last Sunday has directed that the transitory site be completed by June 15 this year and that all IDPs will have their own homes.

Climaco said the President also called for the creation of multi-sectoral inter-agency coordinating body to assist the local government in terms of security.

Four Zambo university graduates top NLE 2014

(PNA), RMA/TPGJR/EDS

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 29 (PNA) -- The government-owned Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) made history as four of its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates made it to the Top 10 in the 2014 Nursing Licensure Examination.

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) administered the examination on Nov. 29 and 30, 2014.

The WMSU BSN graduates, who made it to the top 10 are: Vanna Mae Orog, number 7; Halid Tamano, number 9 and Ellaine Cargan and Marial Audrine Gozum, both in the top 10th spot.

WMSU Public Affairs Office said Orog was one of the Cum Laudes of the 2014 WMSU Graduates and was also awarded with a Clinical Proficiency Award.

Aside from making to the top 10, WMSU is the only academe in this city offering Nursing course that made it to the top 10 newly Registered Nurses for this year.

Since its foundation in 1974, WMSU’s College of Nursing consistently produces quality nurses and professionals.

To date, nursing graduates from WMSU excel in various fields and one of these alumni is WMSU’s very own president, Dr. Milabel Ho, who is a nurse-educator herself.

DOST to hold business technology orientation in Zamboanga, Isabela Cities

(PNA), LAP/TPGJR/EDS

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 28 (PNA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is inviting entrepreneurs to attend the 2015 Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) orientation in this city and in nearby Isabela City, Basilan.

DOST Regional Director Brenda Nazareth-Manzano said Wednesday that the orientation aims to provide assistance to the participants to expand or upgrade their existing business.

Manzano said the orientation in this city is set to be held on February 12 at the Science and Technology Information Center (STIC) of the DOST regional office.

For Isabela City, Manzano said the orientation will be held February 13 the venue of which is still being arranged.

Manzano said the SETUP orientation is open to any micro, small and medium scale business firm that is under the following priority sectors: food processing; gifts, housewares, decors; marine and aquatic resources; horticulture and agriculture; metals and engineering; health products and services/pharmaceuticals; and, information communication technology/electronics.

She said that the SETUP program is a nationwide strategy encouraging and assisting micro, small, medium enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt technology innovations to improve operations and boost productivity and competitiveness.

Through this program, Manzano said the MSMEs can address technical and production problems through DOST interventions such as: system improvement--upgrading of equipment to improve productivity; product development--better product quality; manpower development--training on the operation and maintenance of equipment, basic sanitation and hygiene and good manufacturing practices; and, process improvement--technical consultancy on proper plant lay-outing.

She said interested entrepreneurs are advised to confirm their attendance on or before February 9 Rey Bongga or Julius Marl Barbas through telephone no. (062)991-1024.

Meanwhile, Manzano said the DOST regional office has assisted 191 companies with total interventions of P118.19 million in its 14 years of implementation of the SETUP program in the region.

This year, Manzano said they are targeting to fund around P40 million worth of SETUP project proposals here in the region.

PNoy commits support to city

By Jasmine Mohammadsali

Mayor Beng Climaco disclosed yesterday that the national government has extended its commitment to assist the City with its needs and concerns, specifically for ongoing rehabilitation efforts and for security measures.

For rehabilitation, President Noynoy Aquino promised additional funding for the construction of homes and utilities in transitory sites and a bridging fund that will ensure the well-being of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

“Ya promete y ya dale sila el di ila asistencia y commitment para na plano, que mas de Php 400 M para ayuda na septic, Php 200 M for additional housing, and Php 50 M bridging fund,” said Climaco.

The President likewise directed the local government to work harder and further intensify its rehab and recovery efforts as he expects the completion of all structures and the return of all residents affected by the siege to their communities within a year or so.

Climaco also noted the national government’s efforts to transfer the 56 Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members currently detained in the City Jail.

“Este dia, expectao si Sec. Leila de Lima el ase disuyu apelo na Korte Suprema y tambien na korte para intensifica el transferida del maga Abu Sayyaf,” she said.

Both Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas, she added, met with multi-sectoral groups Sunday to discuss the security concerns and the efforts of the President to help facilitate the immediate transfer of the ASG members detained.

The President was in Zamboanga City Sunday, January 25, to assess the situation of the City following the explosion that rocked Guiwan on Friday, January 23. In his visit, PNoy, accompanied by Roxas, Gazmin, Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman and Budget Secretary Abad, met with local officials to discuss various issues and concerns.

The President also visited the explosion site in Guiwan, made rounds in the different hospitals caring for the victims, and offered his condolences to the families of the 2 fatalities of the explosion.

Climaco noted that financial and medical assistance were provided to all victims of the explosion.

Investigations on the explosion are still ongoing, she said.

In a separate meeting, Climaco said that the President called for the creation of multi-sectoral inter-agency coordinating body to assist the local government in terms of security.

“Ezperanzao que ase memorandum el deaton Departamento de Interior para con este,” she said.

All set for Zambo mayor's State of the City Address

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

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 26 (PNA) -– All is set for the State of the City Address (SOCA) of Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar on Tuesday.

Vice Mayor Cesar Iturralde made this announcement Monday as preparations have been completed.

Iturralde said Salazar will deliver her SOCA at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the city government-owned Centro Latino Convention Center at Paseo del Mar, this city.

Iturralde said that at least 400 guests coming from the different government offices and sectors, to include civic groups, are attending Salazar’s SOCA.

Salazar is expected to highlight her accomplishment in 2014 as well as her priorities for 2015.

This year's will be Salazar's second.

Aside from Salazar, first district Rep. Celso Lobregat, second district Rep. Lilia Nuño and Itturalde will also report their 2014 accomplishments and 2015 programs.

Iturralde said that security measures are also in place for the SOCA.

Heightened checkpoint, security operations being implemented in Zamboanga City

By Priam F. Nepomuceno [(PNA), CTB/PFN]

MANILA, Jan. 25 (PNA) -- To prevent a repeat of the bombing incident that left two persons dead and 52 others wounded at a parking lot in Barangay Guiwan, Zamboanga City, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday announced that it will help in ongoing checkpoint operations and other security measures being implemented by the Philippine National Police.

As this develops, AFP spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said that the bombing last Friday could be in retaliation for the foiled jail break attempt of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) sub-leader Furuji Indaman's brother at the Zamboanga City Reformatory Center last Tuesday.

In that attempt, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology operatives prevented the breakout attempt of Bensar Indama after they discovered a .45 caliber pistol stashed at the jail premises.

"Our checkpoint (operations) and other security measures have been heightened while the investigation for the blast is still ongoing," Padilla said in Filipino.

He added that all necessary security precautions will take place until the perpetrators of the blasts are identified and arrested.

UN Habitat kicks off dev planning workshop

By Jasmine Mohammadsali

The first of a series of planning workshops spearheaded by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN Habitat) for the recovery, rehabilitation, and sustainable development of Zamboanga City kicked off yesterday, January 23 at Centro Latino.

Dubbed as the Zamboanga City Recovery, Rehabilitation and Sustainable Development Planning – Part 1, the main objective of the workshop is to incorporate the recovery and rehabilitation actions and strategies into LGU mandated plans to ensure sustainability of initiatives, and to initiate the local development planning process.

The workshop also highlighted the need to review the existing development plans of the City in a bid to determine its relevance to the current needs of the City, and to identify components, and strategies that need to be included.

In his presentation, City Planning and Development Office Head Engr. Rodrigo Sicat said that the crisis last September 2013 and the resulting Z3R plan which was conceived to address the rehabilitation needs of the affected barangays will be an important and deciding component in all of the City’s future development plans.

“We have to look at the planning of the City from all facets,” he said, underscoring security as one of the critical components that need to be integrated.

UN Habitat Country Programme Manager Christopher Rollo said that as a center of trade and culture, Zamboanga City is a “strong magnet”, and faces both opportunities and challenges.

He added that post-crisis efforts should be geared towards the recovery of the whole City as an urban system.

Mayor Beng Climaco expressed her gratitude for the support of the UN Habitat team, and assured the participants that the local government is ready to face the challenges.

“I am ready, by God’s grace, willing and able to face all the problems,” declared the Mayor.

Participating in the workshop were representatives from the local government and its respective departments, national government agencies, the private sector and the academe, the security sector to include the Zamboanga City Police Office and the Task Force Zamboanga, and non-government organizations and civil society groups.

Participants were clustered into groups to determine components that should be included in the development plan for the City, and identify contributing and negating factors and strategies for development.

Two more planning workshop will be held in the next few months, and all inputs will be consolidated in a final overall output to be submitted to the local government.

The City Government of Zamboanga is a recipient of technical assistance from the UN Habitat in the conduct of planning workshops on recovery, rehabilitation and sustainable development. The first planning workshop was spearheaded by the UN Habitat Team in coordination with the local government, through the City Planning and Development Office.

Mayor seeks swift transfer of ARMM properties in Zambo City to Phil gov’t

By Sheila Covarrubias

Mayor Beng Climaco said it is very important that before the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, all parcels of land owned by the ARMM in Zamboanga City be ceded and transferred to the national government as mandated under the expanded ARMM Law.

The City Government for its part, she declared, is “very willing and able to purchase the same (properties) from the national government.”

Mayor Climaco cited the need for the swift transfer of the ARMM properties to the national government during the last hearing on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law called by the Congressional Ad Hoc Committee before the latter submits its recommendations to the House of Representatives.

Apart from unequivocal stand of the Zamboangueños for non-inclusion in the Bngsamoro, equally important according to Climaco is the issue of the ARMM properties situated in non-ARMM areas.

Based on Section 1 of Article XVIII of Republic Act 9054 or the Expanded ARMM law, land and permanent buildings or structures owned, controlled, administered, or in possession of the ARMM located in provinces and cities which do not vote favorably for the inclusions of their respective areas in the ARMM shall be purchased by the national government. In turn, the national government shall, from its acquisition of said land and permanent buildings or structures, sell, transfer, and convey the said properties in favor of the local government unit having territorial jurisdiction thereover and willing to purchase the said land and buildings or structures, or portions thereof.

“It is our firm stand that this provision of the Expanded ARMM Law is mandatory and has to be complied with prior to the enactment of the BBL,” the mayor asserted.

Climaco said several parcels of land “apparently registered in the name of the Republic of the Philippines/Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Republic/ARMM) are situated in Barangay Cabatangan, Zamboanga City”. However, she said, the Lupon Tagapagpaganap ng Pook (LTP) Building in Cabatangan, a building claimed by the ARMM, is situated inside the lot owned by and registered in the name of the City.

She pointed out that the city had manifested its interest to acquire these parcels of land.

Situated within these parcels of land are buildings and structures of national governmental agencies. These include the Department of Education and Department of Health Training Centers, the Commission on Audit (COA) Regional Office-IX, the Civil Service Commission Regional Office-IX, the Population Commission Training Center, the National Telecommunications Commission Building, the Philippine Army Engineering Brigade, the Philippine Marines, and the Philippine Navy Barracks, among others. These parcels of land can be transformed into a Governmental Center to cater to the office needs of local and national governmental agencies and headquarters of military installations situated therein, she emphasized.

Also, she continued, some parcels of land are occupied by illegal settlers. “In conjunction with the National Housing Authority (NHA), the City of Zamboanga can transform some parcels thereof as on-site resettlement areas in line with the Honorable President’s thrust to provide decent housing to those who have less in life. Thus, it is imperative that the City take ownership and full possession of these parcels of land to be developed as on-site resettlement areas”.

Thus, it is very important that before the passage of the BBL, these properties be ceded and transferred to the national government and that the city government is willing and able to purchase the same from the national government, she added.

Papal commemorative coins available soon

By Bong Garcia

THE Papal Commemorative Coins will be available for sale to the public starting next week.

Noelle Angela Pamaran, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Zamboanga Research Analyst, said among the papal commemorative coins that will be available for are of P50 and P500 denominations.

Pamaran said the papal coins of P1,000 and P10,000 denominations will be available starting May this year.

Pamaran said nickel brass-made P50 coin will be sold at P100 each; Nordic gold-made P500 coin is priced at P1,000 each; the silver-made P1,000 is priced at P3,500 each; and, P25,000 each for the P10,000 gold coin.

Pamaran said the commemorative coins are sold at higher prices to cover production, packaging and other costs. The coins are minted under a licensing agreement with the Vatican.

The BSP, as a matter of policy, commemorates significant events in our country’s history through the minting of coins, medals or overprints on our banknotes.

Papal commemorative coins were also issued for the 1970 visit of Pope Paul VI, and for the 1981 and 1995 papal visits of Pope John Paul II in the country.

Pamaran said those who want to place an order may download the purchase form at www.bsp.gov.ph and mail it to papalcoins@bsp.gov.ph after filing up the form. They have until June this year to place an order.

Pamaran said the interested buyer will have to wait for the confirmation e-mail to determine when they can pay and pick up the coins at the BSP-Zamboanga.

She added that the payment should be is in cash and a printout of the confirmation e-mail must be presented to the BSP teller upon purchase.

The purchase of the Papal Commemorative Coins is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

DOST set to open rubber laboratory in Zamboanga City

By R.G. Antonet A. Go [(PNA), CTB/TPGJR/RGAAG/EDS]

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 21 (PNA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is set to open its rubber laboratory in this city.

Martin Wee, DOST assistant regional director for administrative support and technical service, said Wednesday that the laboratory will be opened by mid-march this year.

Wee said the laboratory will be utilized to determine the quality of rubber produced by farmers in the region, especially from Zamboanga Sibugay and Basilan provinces.

Wee said the DOST has allocated P11 million for the purchased of the needed equipment of the rubber laboratory, which is located at the DOST regional office compound at Pettit Barracks area in this city.

Wee said the laboratory will start operation once the needed equipment such as the laboratory mill and the hydraulic presser will arrive.

He said the farmers will no longer ship their rubber samples to the University of Southern Mindanao in Kidapawan City for quality testing once the DOST laboratory opens in this city.

BFAR to launch BoatR regiowide

By Sheila Covarrubias

In connection with the National Municipal Fisherfolk Registration (FishR) of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), a program orientation-launching of the National Program for Municipal Fishing Vessels and Gears Registration (BoatR) has been scheduled for February 2015 in the provinces of region 9.

The BoatR program aims to assist local government units (LGUs) to fast-track, enhance and complete the municipal registration of municipal fishing vessels three (3) gross tons and below and fishing gears as required under Executive Order No. 305 s. 2004 and Sec. 19 of the Fisheries Code of 1998. The BoatR represents the second level of technical support to LGUs following the year-long completion of the Municipal Fisherfolk Registration Program or FishR in December 2014.

The BFAR shall work with municipalities and cities to complete the registration in their respective areas using a simplified, standard form and the BoatR database system. Technical support shall also be provided to facilitate the registration process which includes the conduct of trainings for admeasurements, technical documentation of fishing gears and the provision of LGU-customized forms, and IEC materials, among others.

The registration information provided by the LGUs in the BoatR shall be utilized by the BFAR as basis for providing technical, livelihood and other assistance programs to fisherfolk communities and in implementing ecosystems-based approach to fisheries management.

The BoatR Program shall be implemented over a one year period, commencing in January 2015 and completed by end of December 2015.

City turns over projects, consults barangay folks

By Sheila Covarrubias

The city government’s support to the barangays continues with vigor regardless of distance and location.

Mayor Beng Climaco last weekend motored to the east coast to turn over projects to 3 barangays as well as consult with barangay officials in a bid for the city to implement projects and programs that are in accordance with the needs of the people.

Barangays Taguiti, Buenavista and Panubigan—all far flung barangays located east of the city each received a package of projects. These included farm to market roads, a 3-classroom school building and wellness center for Taguiti; fence and gate projects at the barangay hall compound for Buenavista and a barangay hall and farm-to-market roads for Panubigan. Consultations with the barangay officials followed.

The turnover of projects and the consultations were done after the other. Mayor Climaco was joined by Councilors BG Guingona and Roel Natividad and City Engineer Luis Despalo and representatives from other offices. The mayor also turned over wheelchairs to pre-selected beneficiaries.

Present to receive the projects and to join the consultations were the barangay officials in Taguiti, Buenavista led by Chairman Eugene Jumawan and Panubigan headed by chair Jacqueline Magasa.

mayor has been visiting the barangays both in Districts I and II to consult with the officials with regards to projects and programs for implementation this year.

In previous days the mayor also turned over projects in barangay Cawit, Latuan and Muti and also held consultations in the areas concered. Salaan, Pasobolong, Zambowood, Lumbangan, Talon-talon, Tetuan and Zone III were also consulted by the mayor.

The consultations are part of the mayor’s thrust on participatory governance.

Comelec in Zamboanga bares SK elections will push through in 2015

By Nonong Santiago

The local Commission on Elections (Comelec) here in Zamboanga City has announced that the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections will push through on February 21, 2015.

District 1 Comelec Officer Atty. Stephen Roy Canete disclosed the filing of the Certificate of Candidacy (COC) will be on February 7, 9 and 10 (Saturday, Monday and Tuesday).

He said District 1 composed of at least 37 barangays has at least 5,673 youths while District 2 has at least 7,000 youths who came to the Comelec office last year to register for the SK.

Canete said the campaign period will start from February 11 to 19.

He advised the youths not to overspent and to refrain from campaigning before the campaign period or they will face sanctions.

According to Canete, the candidates are entitled to spent P5 per voter.

“The average voters in every barangay is only about 200 so they can only spent P1,000,” he added.

For this reason, the city government disclosed that the election ban will start from January 22 up to March 2, 2015.

The prohibition will include the issuance of appointments, promotions, creation of new positions and salary increase in the government and other agencies.

Applicants for any positions must submit their application letters after the ban expires.

Mayor unveils P16.5M Latuan road projects

By Vic Larato

Mayor Beng Climaco on Thursday motored to Barangay Latuan in the east coast where she led in the inauguration and turnover of four farm-to-market roads amounting to P16,527,532.98.

Subject to the engineering integrity and the usual government auditing procedures, Mayor Climaco first unveiled the concreting of Bongal to Calabasa, Latuan road (950 linear meters) costing the city government P6,433,798.60.

From there, she proceeded to inaugurate the Sitio Bitayan to Betong, Sapa Moro to Pagsanghan, Latuan road measuring 273 ln.m in the amount of P1,944,774.44.

Climaco and her entourage then convoyed to Sitio Sapa Moro and turned over to Barangay Latuan the rehabilitated farm-to-market road of 966 ln.m worth P6,156,190.75; and later the road concreting project (232 ln.m) amounting to P1,992,769.19.

Mayor Climaco said the newly completed road projects will uplift the living condition of the people in Laturan and nearby villages, especially the farmers as they will no longer have difficulty in bringing their produce to the markets.

She said more roads are expected to be opened in different parts of the city as it was the thrust of her administration to make people’s lives easier and the countryside more livable; thus fostering peace in the community.

Joining the mayor in Latuan were City Engineer Luis Vicente Despalo, Councilor Ismael Musa and the barangay officials headed by Chairwoman Rosita Macarandang.

Today, the chief executive together with Engr. Despalo and other city officials will again preside over the inauguration of the newly constructed barangay hall and road projects in Barangays Tumitus and Taguiti, also in the east coast.

Zamboanga City set to convert dump site into ecopark

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

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 16 (PNA) –- The city government is set to convert this city’s controlled dumpsite in Barangay Lumbangan into an ecological park (ecopark), an official announced Friday.

Eng’r. Reynaldo Gonzales, Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR) head, said they are now in the process of closing the controlled dump site in Barangay Lumbangan, 8.85 kilometers east of this city.

Gonzales said that the controlled dump site will be converted into an ecopark once it is completely closed.

However, Gonzales said the material recovery facility will remain in the area.

He said they are already preparing the plan and terms of reference for the final closure of the controlled dump site.

He said the city government is appropriating P10 million to undertake improvements before completely closing the dump site and in preparation for its conversion into an ecopark.

He said the improvements they will introduce includes capping, drainage system, linings, gas vents and slope stabilization.

He said they will finally close the controlled dump site in Barangay Lumbangan once the P83-million sanitary landfill in Barangay Salaan, 15 kilometers east of this city, will start operations.

City’s clean-up drive visits Masepa TS

By Sheila Covarrubias

In line with the City Government’s health priority, the clean-up drive continues with more vigour this year with the first activity to be held at the Masepla transitory site in Mampang today.

The City Health Office under Dr. Rodel Agbulos spearheads the activity dubbed “Limpiesa de Nuevo Anio” with the overall intention of ensuring health and sanitation in Masepla, now the biggest transitory site.

The massive clean-up activity is a coordinative effort of the different departments to include the General Services Office, Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office, Office of the City Mayor and other government agencies.

Just like in the past, the clean-up drive is meant to show to families housed at the Masepla transitory the benefits of cleanliness and sanitation in the surroundings, according to Agbulos.

He said it is expected that after the activity, the families themselves will sustain the effort realizing the effects of a clean environment.

The families themselves will be involved in the massive clean-up drive today.

Similar activities were held in the grandstand evacuation center and transitory site as well as other transitory sites including the public market and in the barangays.

Aside from the clean-up activity, Masepla transitory site will also be the venue for the Dia del Alcalde, a one-shot service package where key city departments will roll out their frontline services. These departments include the CHO, City Agriculturist, City Veterinarian, CMO, City Civil Registrar and numerous others.

Mayor Climaco spearheads the Dia del Alcalde activity.

Zamboanga City – Bird’s Paradise

By Dante Corteza

Thanks to the 9th Philippine Bird Festival held in our city last year, there are several endemic bird species found and discovered in Zamboanga City that most locals are not aware of. It can make Zamboanga City a haven for God's flying creations - Bird's Paradise. It is an good indicator too that our city's environment is healthy and clean.

In an article written by Albert Balbutin Jr., “Zamboanga City, Birding, and the 9th Philippine Bird Festival," (April 2014 in the Haribon Foundation website),” he mentioned several discoveries that Pep Talk is proud to share.

First discovery, Balbutin wrote that the migratory bird, the Great Egret (Ardea alba), has made Zamboanga City their new home, hence, technically they are "not migratory" anymore. These immaculate white birds have been breeding at the mangroves forest of Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST). You will be amazed by their beauty and flight.

To the credit of Dr. Milavel Nazario, ZSCMST president, her school built a viewing bird's deck for the general public to do bird watching for free. The best time to view these birds is sunset. Other birds identified there by the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines are the Black-crowned Night Herons (Nycticorax nycticorax), Rufous Night Herons (Nycticorax caledonicus), and Brown Shrikes (Lanius cristatus).

Second, Zamboanga City holds one of the largest watersheds in the country, the Pasonanca Natural Park, with large area of 17,511.9 hectares. Several bird species were sighted here such as egrets, eagles, and kingfishers. The Philippine Serpent Eagle (Spilornis holospilus) and a Silvery Kingfisher (Alcedo argentata) found only in the Philippines made this place their home too.Thought this place is not open to the public but an environmental tour can be arranged with the office of DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources).

Third discovery, one of the many environments recommended by the writer is Mt. Baluno. The Philippine Bird Festival delegates were amazed with the beauty of this mountain. They had trekked down a dirt road where a beautiful Bagras tree (Eucalyptus deglupta) also known as the Mindanao gum or Rainbow gum, stood to welcome visitors. Within this same facility, nests of Glossy Swiftlets (Collocalia esculenta) were found on beams in the ceilings. A Philippine Falconet (Microhierax erythrogenys), the smallest raptor in the Philippines, welcomed them as it stood perched with its black head and wings. Further down more birds were spotted, like the Whiskered Treeswift (Hemiprocne comata), a beautiful bird with whisker-like white streaks on its head.

And the fourth discovery is the natural wetland areas of Baranggay Victoria. It serves as a nesting place for many birds. One is the black-winged Stilts (Himantopus himantopus), identified by their pink legs and black wings. Pep Talk hopes the people of Victoria can take advantage of their God-given environment and make it as an eco-tourism site.

"Help people help the environment" is the movement of the Haribon Foundation and our city can do it Pep Talk believes. All we need to do is love our environment - plant more trees such as mangroves, conserve our watersheds and wetland areas, among others.

And Pep Talk is sure more birds will come to live with us in peace.

Zambo City business permits rose 11% in 2014

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

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 13 (PNA) -– The Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) issued 9,232 business permits in 2014, up 11 percent from 8,393 issued in 2013.

BPLO chief Benjie Barredo said Tuesday that 8,230 of the 9,232 business permits were renewal while the remaining 1,002 were new issued licenses.

In 2013, of the 8,393 business permits issued, 7,667 of which were renewal while the remaining 726 new permits.

Barredo attributed the increase in the issuance of business permits to the implementation of a three-step processing.

These are the following: first is the application with BPLO where they will be asked to fill up and submit the application form; second, assessment and payment at the CTO; and, third, get the temporary permit to operate (TPO).

The business operations can start immediately following the issuance of the TPO but the requirements and clearances are to be complied within the prescribed 30-day period for the issuance of the actual business permit.

Barredo said that most of the businesses registered for 2014 were under food and retailer to include sari-sari stores, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Meanwhile, Barredo said they are optimistic business permits issuance this year would reach 10,000.

Mayor welcomes new hospital in Zambo City

By Sheila Covarrubias

Mayor Beng Climaco on Saturday graced the groundbreaking ceremonies for a new hospital that will rise in Canelar Street, another proof of the city’s growing investments and constantly improving health care facilities.

“We welcome you to Zamboanga,” Mayor Beng Climaco told the officers of the Board of Metro Zamboanga Hospital and Medical Center, as she joined District I Cong. Celso Lobregat in gracing the groundbreaking rites.

She praised the doctors and other incorporators of the new hospital for honing their skills in medical schools outside the city and coming back to Zamboanga City to serve their people.

“I know your dreams and aspirations and I hope that this will be realized with equipping the hospital and giving a legacy for all our patients. On behalf of the City Government, may God bless and enlarge your territory and find success in healing people,” she continued.

For his part, Cong. Lobregat cited the medical facilities existing and rising in Zamboanga City, which he stressed are equal to those in the major cities like Metro Manila.

The proposed new hospital is owned by a number of doctors and investors with Dr. Ningh Singh as the chairman, Dr. Anthony Chan as the president of the board and Dr. Justin Paber as Secretary of the Board.

Dr. Chan said the incidents particularly the 2013 siege did not dampen the incorporators’ desire in opening up the new hospital putting in mind that if there are new hospitals and new investments in the city, people will not leave the city.

“Anywhere you go tiene gayot cosa ta pasa,” Chan said referring to problems in peace and security. “Mas malo pa gane na Manila.”

Beng firm against smuggling activities

(Daily Zamboanga Times)

Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said that she will not tolerate smuggling and other illegal activities in this city.

Salazar’s statement came after the port police informed her that earlier Friday several people attempted to retrieve the confiscated smuggled sugar from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) warehouse purportedly per instruction from her.

“I will not tolerate the use of my name for smuggling activities. I will not tolerate smuggling and all other illegal activities,” Salazar said.

However, the PPA authorities did not honor the verbal request.

Deposited at the PPA warehouse were the 58.8 tons or 1,170 sacks of 50 kilos each of smuggled sugar that were intercepted on Tuesday by combined police, military and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel off this city.

The confiscated shipment of smuggled sugar is estimated to be worth Php 2.5 million based on the prevailing market price of sugar at Php 43 a kilo.

Salazar said she wrote a letter on Wednesday addressed to Bureau of Customs (BoC) Commissioner John Philip Sevilla questioning the delay in the response of the Customs-Zamboanga District Office to efforts by police, military and PCG to turn over the seized smuggled sugar.

The smuggled sugar were seized on Tuesday aboard M/L Ylaiza Maye V near the beach of Barangay Bolong, 32.60 kilometers east of this city.

The vessel, escorted by the police, military and PCG personnel, was brought to the local wharf around 8:10 p.m. Tuesday.

The vessel, cargoes and crew were formally received by a representative from the Customs-Zamboanga District Office only at 9 a.m. Wednesday or more than 12 hours after the items arrived at the port.

“The response from the Customs Collector came 12 hours after. We have to show fast action versus smuggling,” Salazar said.


Beng firm against smuggling activities

(Daily Zamboanga Times)

Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said that she will not tolerate smuggling and other illegal activities in this city.

Salazar’s statement came after the port police informed her that earlier Friday several people attempted to retrieve the confiscated smuggled sugar from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) warehouse purportedly per instruction from her.

“I will not tolerate the use of my name for smuggling activities. I will not tolerate smuggling and all other illegal activities,” Salazar said.

However, the PPA authorities did not honor the verbal request.

Deposited at the PPA warehouse were the 58.8 tons or 1,170 sacks of 50 kilos each of smuggled sugar that were intercepted on Tuesday by combined police, military and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel off this city.

The confiscated shipment of smuggled sugar is estimated to be worth Php 2.5 million based on the prevailing market price of sugar at Php 43 a kilo.

Salazar said she wrote a letter on Wednesday addressed to Bureau of Customs (BoC) Commissioner John Philip Sevilla questioning the delay in the response of the Customs-Zamboanga District Office to efforts by police, military and PCG to turn over the seized smuggled sugar.

The smuggled sugar were seized on Tuesday aboard M/L Ylaiza Maye V near the beach of Barangay Bolong, 32.60 kilometers east of this city.

The vessel, escorted by the police, military and PCG personnel, was brought to the local wharf around 8:10 p.m. Tuesday.

The vessel, cargoes and crew were formally received by a representative from the Customs-Zamboanga District Office only at 9 a.m. Wednesday or more than 12 hours after the items arrived at the port.

“The response from the Customs Collector came 12 hours after. We have to show fast action versus smuggling,” Salazar said.

Zambo City readies for State of the City Address

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

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 10 (PNA) -- Preparations are underway for the State of the City Address (SOCA) of Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar.

Vice-Mayor Cesar Iturralde said the SOCA of Salazar will be held on Jan. 27 at the Centro Latino Convention Hall in Paseo del Mar.

Iturralde said at least 400 guests coming from the different sectors are expected to attend the SOCA of the mayor.

“We are preparing the invitations, program and the venue,” he said.

Salazar is expected to highlight her accomplishments in 2014 as well as her priorities for 2015.

This year will be the second time Salazar to deliver her SOCA.

Aside from Salazar, first district Rep. Celso Lobregat, second district Rep. Lilia Nuño and Itturalde will also report their 2014 accomplishments and 2015 programs.

UP Jambangan Summit 2015 on at WMSU

(Daily Zamboanga Times)

The University of the Philippines Jambangan (UPJ), a duly-recognized regional organization for Zamboanga Peninsula students in UP Diliman, brings you the most awaited regional competition in Zamboanga Peninsula, the UP Jambangan Summit 2015 with this year’s theme, “EXPLORE: Recognizing Educational Opportunities to Optimize Youth’s Potential towards Regional Development.” This will be held on January 9 and 10 at Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), Zamboanga City.

Be excited as different competitive high school students all over Zamboanga Peninsula gather together to battle wits and talents to bring pride and honor to their school. This summit is a two-day event which consists of a series of contests on the first day such as the Jambangan Quiz Bee, On-the-spot Essay Writing Contest, and Poster Making Contest. COUPLE, which stands for Career Orientation and UP Life Experience, a whole day career orientation will be held the following day at the said university.

The summit aims to provide a good opportunity for a healthy competition and an avenue for camaraderie among students. It also aims to promote UP education, its admission process, courses offered and their overviews, and tips of how to survive college in UP.

To join in the series of events, schools are welcome to confirm their participation until January 9 through the organization’s email address. Walk-in participants are also accepted. This summit is fully endorsed by the Department of Education (DepED) Region IX.

For any questions and concerns, feel free to contact UP Jambangan at 09065533536 or send an e-mail at upjambangan@gmail.com. You may also visit them at www.facebook.com/upjambangan for more information.

DOLE increases budget allocation for ‘summer job’ program in Region 9

(PNA), LAP/TPGJR/EDS

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 8 (PNA) -– The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has increased its funding allocation by 34.29 percent representing P15.9 million for this year’s Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) compared to the allotment last year here in Region 9.

DOLE Regional Director Sisinio Cano made this announcement in a press conference Thursday, citing this year’s budget for SPES here in the region is P46.3 million, which is higher by P15.9 million compared to that of last year which was P30.4 million.

Cano said that the number of student-beneficiaries will also increase with the additional funding allocation set aside by DOLE for the implementation of SPES this year.

SPES, also known as the “summer job” program, is jointly implemented by DOLE and the local government units (LGUs) on a 40-60 percent sharing scheme.

DOLE shoulders 40 percent while the LGUs 60 percent of the salary of the beneficiary-students, who are indigents.

The student-beneficiaries are assigned to the different government offices to do clerical works while the rest for the clean and green program of the LGU.

Meanwhile, Cano said the number of SPES beneficiaries last year exceeded by 746 the target number of recipients.

Cano said last year’s target number of beneficiaries was 11,639 but 12,385 indigent students availed the program.

BFP to focus on fire prevention campaign in 2015

By R.G. Antonet A. Go [(PNA), CTB/TPGJR/R.G. ANTONET A. GO/EDS]

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 7 (PNA) -– The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) announced that it will focus its efforts on prevention campaign in a bid to further lower the number of fire incidents in this city.

This, as the BFP’s Zamboanga City Fire District (ZCFD) has noted that public awareness has contributed a lot in the reduction of fire incidents in 2014 compared to that in 2013.

ZCFD data showed that there were 99 fire incidents in 2014 which is lower by 11 compared to the 110 cases registered in 2013.

Supt. Dominador Zabala, Jr., ZCFD fire marshal, said Wednesday the decline in the number of fire incidents has also lessened by P84 million the worth of properties damaged in 2014 to P108 million from P192 million in 2013.

Zabala said they will focus the fire prevention information and education campaign in the different schools--elementary, secondary and tertiary--in this city.

Zabala said the campaign, which will start on the second week of this month, will include fire exit drills, evacuation drills and fire prevention lectures.

“We will do this campaign to educate the students on what they should do in cases of fire in their schools,” he added.

He said all the fire sub-stations will be involved in the campaign in their respective localities.

New roads, better security are among Zamboanga City mayor 2015 priorities

(PNA), FPV/TPGJR/JSD

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 6 (PNA)-- Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar announced that the opening of new access roads and improved security situation are among her priorities for the year 2015.

Salazar said that among the new access roads that she wanted to open are from Mayor Vitaliano Agan Avenue to Gov. Ramos Avenue; Camanchile Road to Barangay Sta. Catalina and various access routes connecting the adjoining barangays of Tetuan and Tugbungan, among others.

Salazar said the opening of new access roads will greatly help decongest traffic and would spur business activities in the barangays.

City Administrator Antonio Orendain Jr. said the City Engineer’s Office and the City Assessor’s Office are set “to start the ground works” for the opening of the access road from Mayor Vitaliano Agan Avenue to Gov. Ramos Avenue.

“Although the opening of road will take a little time, we hope we can do it fast,” Orendain added.

Salazar said the city government will fully support the police and military in all their endeavors.

“We will not allow criminals to make Zamboanga City conducive to criminal activities. The goal is the prevention of bombings, kidnappings and other lawless activities,” Salazar said as she noted the police and military have been doing their best efforts to keep this city safe.

Salazar’s administration has allocated Php191.8 million in 2014 for security, which is higher by Php 60.3 million than the Php131.5 million allocations in 2013.

She said the increased allocation is one proof that the city government is serious in its goal to strengthen security.

City rolls out BOSS for swift biz renewal process

By Sheila Covarrubias

The City Government rolls out today, January 5, the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) initiative to make registration and renewal of permits more convenient to businessmen.

This, as permits renewal and registration go full blast starting today, January 5 to 20. Late filers will be meted with 25% surcharge per quarter and 2% additional surcharge per month.

Under the BOSS concept, all agencies and offices involved in the renewal of licenses of different kinds of businesses will be established at the second floor of City Hall. These include the Social Security System (SSS), PAG-IBIG Mutual Fund, Philippine Health Insurance (PHILHEALTH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), City Agriculturist Office (CAO), Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (OCENR), City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), City Engineer’s Office (CEO), City Health Office (CHO), City Veterinarian Office and City Tourism Office.

The City Treasurer’s Office (CTO) and the Business and Permits Licensing Office (BPLO) are both located at the City Hall ground floor.

The BOSS initiative signifies the city’s firm commitment to provide improved and better services in a bid to create a more vibrant and competitive business climate in Zamboanga City.

Business renewal under the BOSS system will have 4 steps- first, presentation of 2014 business permit at the BPLO, second secure clearances (different agencies at the City Hall second floor), third, assessment and payment at the CTO and fourth, get the 2015 permit at the BPLO. Businessmen are advised to secure a barangay clearance before starting with step 1. They are also advised to bring all available clearances/permits of previous year for faster processing.

For new business registration, applicants will undergo 3 steps- first is the application with BPLO where they will be asked to fill up and submit the application form, second, assessment and payment at the CTO and third, get the temporary permit to operate (TPO). With the TPO, the business operations can start but the requirements and clearances are to be complied within the prescribed 30-day period for the issuance of the actual business permit.

Pre-application requirements for new applicants are Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) registration or DTI registration (single proprietor), valid identification card, 2x2 pictures, proof of ownership/lease contract and other pertinent documents.

Office hours for all agencies and offices involved in the renewal and registration process will be extended from 8am to 8pm Monday- Friday and from 8am to 5pm on holidays, Saturdays and Sundays starting today, Jan. 5 to Jan. 20, to accommodate applicants.

Zamboanga ecozone investments hit $695M

By Louella D. Desiderio (The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines - Investments in the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority (Zamboecozone) Freeport went up slightly in the January to November period compared to the previous year.

Data from the Zamboecozone showed investments of locators in the ecozone reached $694.67 million in the 11-month period in 2014, an increase of 1.41 percent from the $685 million invested in the same period in 2013.

Zamboecozone market specialist Alfonso Basilio Marquez said in an email the ecozone had seven new locators for the 11-month period namely: Gabmar Manpower Agency Inc.; Leadership Manpower Services Inc.; Eco Bottling Enterprises (water bottling factory); AML Fastfood; A. Tung Chingco Manufacturing Corp. (warehousing of Ligo Sardines and other canned products); New Traditions Agri Farm and Trading (cassava and banana plantation); and AHS Agri-aqua Ventures (cacao plantation and nursery).

At present, the ecozone has 20 registered locators engaged in various businesses such as power, water, raw material processing, food processing, food concessionaires and manpower services.

Alfonso said the ecozone expects new locators as 19 firms are currently in different stages of registration with total investment commitments amounting to P280 million ($6.242 million).

Meanwhile, exports from the ecozone rose 34.37 percent to $4.793 million as of end-November 2014 from $3.567 million in the same period in 2013.

Zamboecozone chairperson and administrator Christopher Lawrence Arnuco had previously reported that total exports from the ecozone are expected to surge by 150 percent in 2014 from the previous year as new firms set up facilities and existing locators expand operations.

In 2013, total exports from the ecozone reached $3.68 million, well-above the $1.048 million in 2012.

The Zamboecozone, which covers more than 16,000 hectares, aims to position itself as the center of halal industries in the country amid global demand for halal processed food and beverage as well as other products and services.

Halal is the prescribed process of preparation of products according to Islamic law.

In line with its aim to position itself as the country’s halal hub, the Zamboecozone has designated a 100-hectare area for halal processing and manufacturing companies.

Apart from being the country’s halal center, the Zamboecozone also wants to become the region’s manufacturing and processing hub with focus on value-adding to products such as rubber, seaweeds, coconut, processed fish, mango and abaca.

New Year celebration in Zambo generally peaceful, injury free

(Mindanews)

ZAMBOANGA CITY (MindaNews / 3 Jan) – The Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) has recorded zero cases both for stray bullet and firecracker-related incidents during the New Year celebration here.

Senior Supt. Angelito Casimiro, ZCPO director, also reported a 100-percent compliance to the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters’ directive dubbed as “Ligtas Kapaskuhan,” citing no one among his personnel has fired his gun during the New Year revelry.

“The New Year celebration was generally peaceful and injury free,” Casimiro said.

He attributed such achievement to the intensified enforcement of City Ordinance 431 that bans the sale and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic products.

City Ordinance 431 was enacted on September 30, 2014 as an urgent measure in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act 7160 otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991.

However, Casimiro said they have apprehended 10 people, including seven minors, who were caught violating the firecracker ban ordinance.

He said the three arrested adults were subjected to inquest proceeding before the City Prosecutor’s Office while the minors were turned over to their respective parents.

He said they have confiscated firecrackers that include five star, rockets (kwitis, including the smaller version), piccolo, and sticks of seven colors.

Casimiro said they have also confiscated canons made of bamboo and tin cans also known as “lantaka,” and PVC canon known as “Boga.”

“There are still people who insist to violate the firecracker ban. Some of them were apprehended and spent their New Year’s Day inside the (Police) station jail except for the minors,” he added.

He led on Friday the inspection and removal of tapes on gun muzzles of firearms belonging to policemen under the ZCPO, which has jurisdiction over 11 police stations and a public safety company.

Casimiro said not one among the 1,222 policemen under the ZCPO was found to have fired his service firearms during the New Year’s revelry.

The PNP issued a directive to all personnel for an intensified campaign against illegal discharge of firearms and indiscriminate firing. The campaign includes the simultaneous taping of muzzles of guns issued to policemen nationwide last Dec. 22 to assure the public that they will not discharge their firearms during the Yuletide Season, except in cases of emergency.

Beng: Rizal is worth emulating

(Daily Zamboanga Times)

Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said Tuesday that National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal is worth to be emulated by the students and the younger generations of this city.

Salazar issued the statement as she led Tuesday a simple but meaningful ceremony as this city joined the nation in observing the martyrdom of Rizal.

The ceremony, held at the Rizal Shrine in front of cityhall, was participated in by the multisectoral groups.

“Rizal’s life and works is something for you young students to emulate,” Salazar said as she led the 118th death anniversary of Rizal.

The activity started with a flag raising and followed by floral offering by the participants.

The activity marks the day when the Spanish soldiers executed Rizal in Bagumbayan, which is now known as the Luneta Park.

Meanwhile, Salazar has urged the Zamboangueños to have “the courage, to be brave, and to be strong to face life,” citing this city like any other places in the world has its own problems.

Salazar has also led the participants of the Rizal Day ceremony here in honoring the police and military including the firefighters, whom she said “the heroes of today” because they respond to any eventualities and emergencies to keep this city safe.

“Thank you very much for keeping Zamboanga City safe,” she added.

PCG rescues stranded New Year’s Eve picnickers in Sta. Cruz Island, Zamboanga City

By Teofilo P. Garcia, Jr. [(PNA), RMA/TPGJR/TPGJR/RSM]

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 1 (PNA) -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued on New Year’s Eve 22 picnickers stranded in an island brought about by inclement weather condition in this city.

Dr. Elmeir Jade Apolinario, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer, said the picnickers were rescued around 10:39 p.m. Wednesday from the Greater Sta. Cruz Island.

Apolinario told the Philippines News Agency on Thursday that the stranded picnickers were all employees of a local restaurant.

Apolinario said the group was stranded after the motorized banca operators they hired did not return to the island and fetch them back to the mainland due to rough seas brought about by inclement weather.

Apolinario said the fate of the stranded picnickers only reached the attention of local authorities around 8 p.m. of New Year’s Eve since they “went to (Greater) Sta. Cruz Island without proper coordination.”

Apolinario said investigation showed the group hired and boarded motorized bancas at a beach near the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (Navforwem) headquarters in Barangay Lower Calarian this city in going to the island.

“We were surprised,” Apolinario said citing “our records appear we don’t have operations in Sta. Cruz Island” on New Year’s Eve.

He said that any individual who wish to go on a picnic at the Greater Sta. Cruz Island is required to register with the City Tourism Office and City Tourism Police before boarding motorized banca at Paseo del Mar in Barangay Zone IV en route to the island.

He said the city government adopted such requirements for purposes of proper monitoring of visitors whether domestic or foreigners going to and from the island.

He said even Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar was worried “because we do not know who are these people” since they were not registered with the City Tourism Office.

Apolinario said he instructed the rescuers to book the rescued stranded picnickers with the local police “for endangering the lives of people” since they traveled to the island without proper coordination.

“They were not only endangering their lives but also of our responders,” Apolinario said citing it is risky to travel at night time from and to the island due to strong current in the area.

The Greater Sta. Cruz Island is a favorite picnic site for domestic and foreign tourists as the place is known for its pink sand beach.

The island is 15-20 minutes ride away by small boat from mainland Zamboanga City.

The city government has allocated funds as the Greater Sta. Cruz Island is being developed into an eco-tourism park.

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