Zamboanga City News July 2011

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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.

Feature: Nutrition month culminates, ZamPen levels up campaign on breastfeeding, good nutrition

by Noemi B. Edaga(NBE/PIA9/http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breastfeeding)

Every year, July is celebrated as nutrition month. This year's theme, "Isulong ang Breastfeeding-Tama, Sapat at EKsklusibo!" focuses on the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding for infants from 0-6 months and continue up to 2 years and beyond.

Breastfeeding is considered by health authorities as the most cost effective way of feeding an infant. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasize the value of breastfeeding for mothers and child.

Global Practices

While breastfeeding beyond 1 year of age is considered extended breastfeeding in the United States, experts say that the average age of weaning worldwide is 4 years. In Guinea-Bissau, West Africa, the average length of breastfeeding is 22.6 months and in India, mothers commonly breastfeed their children until 3 to 4 years of age. Although the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended that breastfeeding be continued for at least 12 months, and thereafter as mutually desired, the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for at least 2 years.

34 % of Filipina mothers practice exclusive breastfeeding

Daphine Oseña-Paez who has the distinction of being the first Filipina ever appointed Special Advocate for Children by UNICEF promotes the practice of exclusive breastfeeding among Filipino mothers and endorses this natural feeding option as the best way to keep newborns in good health.
She disclosed that "In the Philippines, only 34 percent of mothers practice exclusive breastfeeding. She exhorted mothers by further saying that formula/bottle-fed infants are put at great risk because they're potentially exposed to contaminated water, bacteria, and infections.
Her advocacy points out to mothers that breast milk is truly the best and should be the only thing be given to newborns for at least the first six months of their lives. “An exclusively breastfeed baby won’t even need a drop of water for the first 6 months," Oseña-Paez concluded.

Challenges and Beyond

City Health Officer Dr. Rafael R. Cabug during a meeting with Isabela Nutrition Council presented the top 10 barangays with reported underweight children and top 10 barangays with severely underweight recorded children.
In response, the City sought to address these severely underweight kids to resolve recorded incidence of underweight and severely underweight children in barangays Marketsite, Kaumpurnah Zone 1, Diki, Kaumpurnah Zone 3, Tampalan, Kaumpurnah Zone 2, Carbon, Marang-Marang, Kapatagan Small, and Port Area. Marketsite barangay registers the highest number of underweight children with 162 as of October 2010.
The barangays with severely underweight children are Aguada, Sumagdang, Diki, Masola, Kaumpurnah Zone 3, San Rafael, Panunsulan, Panigayan, Carbon, Baluno, and Kaumpurnah Zone 2.
Indeed, lack of awareness on the full benefits of breastfeeding to both mother and child generally contributed to cases of health problems and malnutrition of toddlers and children in the region.
In her message during a televised public affairs program, Kapihan Na Zamboanga, Ma. Del Pilar Pamela Tarroza, Nutrition Program Coordinator of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) in the region emphasized the importance of exclusive breast feeding for infants 0 to 6 months old, and supplementing it with soft nutritious diet immediately thereafter while sustaining the latter.
Breastfeeding is a mother's greatest gift to her infant. It has been the bedrock of proper nutrition since time immemorial. It contains colostrum, a clear liquid rich in protein and secreted by the breasts two or three days after birth. Colostrum is a natural ingredient that serves as protection for the infant against various infections.

Interventions

Mr. Jun Nuñal, Basilan OIC City Administrator called for greater coordination of efforts among agencies and private institutions to augment financial limitations and push programs that would address nutrition and health concerns of the marginalized sectors.
The nutrition council in Basilan also asked the City Health Office to have the conduct of Operation Tim bang (OPT) earlier to validate and or correct the current data at hand. The result of the new OPT will become the basis for the council’s future planning.
Meanwhile Zamboanga City, has all of its mothers who just gave birth, who are about to give birth and for all women who will become mothers in the future, encouraged by City Health Officer Rodelin Agbulos during the recent “Nutri walk” to help drumbeat the benefits of breastfeeding.
This took place early July, as an opening salvo for the 37th Nutrition Month celebration with close to 600 participants marching the street thoroughfare show their strong support to promotion of good health and nutrition.
The Nutri Walk was highlighted with the presentation of 16 candidates from the 16 health districts of the city for the search for “Model Breastfeeding Mothers” who paraded their infants during the search. Coronation Night is scheduled on August 4.
On its part, Dipolog City takes pride in its citation as the most improved area in nutrition program in the region, being a recipient of 2010’s “Most Improved Area in Nutrition Program” and an “Outstanding Nutrition Action Officer” award, certificate of recognition was given to the city’s Nutrition Action Officer, Mrs. Meriam O. Lacaya.



PRC culminates blood donors month

By R.G. A A. Go

The Philippine Red Cross Zamboanga City Chapter has culminated its Blood Donors Month with a recognition program for those agencies that supported blood donors month.

The blood donor’s month is being celebrated from July 1 to July 31 by virtue of Presidential Proclamation 1021 dated June 09, 1997 and the implementing Rules and Regulation of the National Blood Service Act of 1994.

The objective of the celebration is to increase awareness about the benefits of voluntary blood donation and to strengthen partnership among implementing agencies.

The theme for this year’s celebration of the Blood Donors Month is “More Blood, More Life.”

"Este el end del blood donors month ta dale quita gratitude conel quien maga ya dona sangre," said Philippine Red Cross Zamboanga City Chapter Administrator Vic Liozo.

During the Blood Donors Month, the Red Cross was able to collect more than 200 units of blood from donations of several groups and individuals in the city.

Liozo stressed that “si el jente ta dona sangre ta queda le five years younger.”

He added the blood bank has helped a lot to the injured soldiers in the fresh clash with the Abu Sayaff in Patikul, Sulu by releasing blood needed by these soldiers.

The closing ceremony was headed by City Adminstrator Antonio Orendain Jr., and some of the city councilors.

Awards were also given such as the bloodiest utility agency Zamboanga City Water District, bloodiest hospital Zamboanga Doctors Hospital, bloodiest barangay Sta. Maria, bloodiest university Ateneo de Zamboanga University, bloodiest college Pilar College, bloodiest religious group Zamboanga Cathedral of Praise, bloodiest WMSU Collegiate Department College of Nursing, bloodiest brotherhood organization Philippine Free Masons Samboangan Lodge #310, bloodiest broadcasting network Bombo Radyo Philippines DXCB 93.9 Star FM, bloodiest fraternity Alpha Kappa Rho, bloodiest local government unit Sangguniang Panlungsod, bloodiest tv station ABS CBN, bloodiest Military Unit Naval Forces Western Mindanao, bloodiest alumni ICAS Tetuan batch 91, bloodiest national government Philippine Ports Authority, bloodiest industrial company Permex Producers and Exporters Corporation, bloodiest parish Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Ayala Parish, bloodiest NSTP BHCH NSTP STET VIP CWTS/LTS, Bloodiest Ateneo de Zamboanga University Collegiate Department ADZU college of nursing, bloodiest business establishment Shoppers Plaza and Square, bloodiest association Los Contratistas dela Ciudad de Zamboanga and bloodiest knight of Columbus St. Joseph Council No. 8209.

The champion legislator in blood service was awarded to Councilors Myra Paz Abubakar, Rey Candido, Rodolfo Lim, Lilia Nuno, Percival Ramos, and Melchor Sadain.

The said event was also joined by other agencies like the Department of Health, PNRC, hospitals and other related agencies.

The Philippine Red Cross and the blood bank of the Zamboanga City Medical Center are the only authorized at present when it comes to blood.

PRC officials said the advantages of donating blood are like changing oil because of blood donation the bone marrow which is simulated to produce new red blood cells, which will make the blood forming organs function more effectively, personal health free check up of blood type, blood pressure and physical examination by the doctor.

Qualified to donate blood are those 18 – 65 years old, weighing 45 kilogram or above 50 kilograms with normal blood pressure, and hemoglobin count not less than 125 gm/ml.

Zambo City health office reminds public to be cautious on diabetes

Jocelyn P. Alvarez-PIA9-ZC/BT

The City Health Office (CHO) has intensified information dissemination campaign on the prevention and control of diabetes fallowing report of fatality to almost 400 cases registered in 2010 alone.

Health Officials here said diabetes is recognized as one of the leading causes of death among Zamboangueños.

City Health Officer Rodelin Agbulos called on public to be cautious of the disease which he said could raise risk of dying prematurely due to complications that could lead to other ailments such as heart attack, stroke and kidney trouble.

Data gathered revealed, in 2010, a total of 389 cases of diabetes were registered of which 72 were reordered to have died.

Agbulus said our diet plays a big role in the prevention and control of the diabetes.

“A high fat, low fiber and high carbohydrate diet coupled with being inactive and deskbound promotes diabetes,” the health officer reminded the public. With this development, the CHO is drumbeating information drive about the disease and how to prevent and control it.

Information, education and communication (IEC) materials including leaflets on “salud del pueblo” (health of the city) are being distributed to raise people’s level of awareness about the disease, its complications, prevention and control.

The campaign is timely as the city celebrates National Diabetes Awareness Week (NDAW), July 25 to 29. Series of activities have been lined by up by CHO in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) and non government organizations (NGOs) in celebration of the NDAW.

City official eyes sale of Chabacano books and other Zambo products to promote tourism

by Jaybilyn M. Tinguha(JPA/MVC/JMT/PIA9-Zambo City)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 28 (PIA) -- First District City Councilor Rodolfo R. Lim authored City Ordinance No.2011-30 proposing for the sale of Chabacano books and other publications, seedlings and agricultural products, souvenir items and other products produced, developed, created, or owned by the city government of Zamboanga.

In his privilege speech during the city council’s 24th regular session, Councilor Lim showed some examples of Chabacano books that he said can be sold to promote the city. The books include the Chabacano Dictionary and the El Primer Alphabeto de Chabacano.

Lim said that his proposal is not aimed to make money but for the reservation and promotion of the city and the Chabacano Language.

“We’re not making profit out of it. We are not into business, we are into accessibility,” he said.

City Councilor Vincent Paul Elago agreed with Lim saying it would be an effective tool to spread the language and promote Zamboanga.

City dad sees hope for Zambo under PNoy’s admin

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez(JPA/ PIA9 Zambo City)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 27 (PIA) –- “There is hope for Zamboanga under President Aquino’s administration,” said city Mayor Celso Lobregat shortly before President Benigno Aquino III’s State Of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered Monday, July 25.

The mayor said he expects to see more good projects done in the city within PNoy’s term.

The “hope” that Lobregat was referring to was the controversial transfer of the “seat of government “ from Zamboanga City to Pagadian City.

“We are fortunate that within P-Noy’s first year in office, one thing that he has done for us was the issuance of moratorium on the regional transfer, which prevented the remaining regional offices from moving out,” the mayor said.

Lobregat exclaimed, with the moratorium “Zamboanga City can now hope.”

Lobregat however refused to rate PNoy’s first year in office stressing that normally the first year in office is merely setting of the direction and establishing foundation like what he himself has gone through during his first term as Mayor of Zamboanga.

Lobregat believed that PNoy’s first year as a President is truly reflective of his campaign commitment “Kung Walang Corrupt, Walang Mahirap.”

“I think it is the thrust of this government to fight corruption that is why you have now so many investigations and revelations against the past administration, which also strengthens the divide between the present and past administration,” the mayor said.

P 31.6 M worth of Agri projects underway for Zambo City

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 26 (PIA) -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) in partnership with the city government of Zamboanga are now evaluating Rural Infrastructure projects for the two congressional districts estimated at thirty-one million six hundred thousand pesos (P31,600,000.00) from 2011 to 2016 under the ZIADP special project.

Construction is expected to start anytime within this quarter. Raul Ramon “Poch” Bucoy, Agriculture Program Coordinator (APCO) for Zamboanga City and newly appointed Zamboanga Integrated Agricultural Development (ZIADP) Coordinator for Region 9 said some of the targeted projects are about to start its construction the earliest possible time as the evaluation have been approved and with corresponding amount.

For the First District under Congresswoman Ma. Isabelle Climaco - Salazar, the projects are farm-to-market roads, rehabilitation of Irrigation System and rehabilitation of the different seaweed stilt dryers all located in the different barangays in the west coast of the city.

For the Second District under Congressman Erbie A. Fabian, projects are concreting of roads in barangays Mercedes, Sangali and Cabaluay.

Bucoy said the evaluation team is composed of engineers and officials from the Local Government Unit, national agencies and representatives from non government organization (NGO).

He said the involvement of the NGOs is one of the mandated requirements by the present administration to be included in the evaluation, recommendation and approval of any government projects all over the country.

Bucoy disclosed that more agricultural-related projects are in the pipeline for implementation in Zamboanga City. The infrastructure projects have significant benefits to the rural economy as it links production areas to markets and stimulate economic activities in the communities.

It will enhance the agricultural and fishery productivity and increase the income of the farmers and fisherfolk. All projects are always properly coordinated with the LGU.

Celso cites DepEd’s ‘Palengke sa Eskwela’

by Sheila Covarrubias

Mayor Celso Lobregat has underscored the importance of health and physical well-being in the effort to educate the young to ultimately solve poverty. “I believe the key to eradicating poverty, corruption and many other of our problems like in educating our people. But education is not only the filling of one’s mind, it also covers a person’s physical well-being”, the mayor said the other day as he launched together with Department of Education officials the Palengke sa Eskwelahan at the Zamboanga Central School.

Mayor Lobregat declared that health and general well-being of each and every Zamboangueno is of paramount importance in his administration stressing that the local government is serious in addressing the medical and health as well as nutritional needs of the constituents as he believes that progress is only possible if everyone is healthy.

The launching of “Palengke sa Eskwela” held in celebration of the Nutrition Month was intended to encourage school children to eat nutritious foods like vegetables and fruits.

“I wish this “Palengke sa Eskwela” a success. I assure you of my administration’s commitment to implement programs that would promote healthy eating in the city,” the mayor stressed.

He said a child’s health must be nurtured so he or she can cope well with the challenges that would beset her as he or she grows older. It is essential that every child receives all of the required nutrients, vitamins and minerals to ensure their well-being as they grow up, he added.

Also present during the Palengke sa Eskwela launching were Councilor Rudy Lim, City health officer Rodel Agbulos, Deped officials Maybell Tee and others, school principals and administrators and staff.

Turkish bizmen visit Zambo for possible business partnership

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez(JPA/ PIA9 Zambo City).

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 24 (PIA) –- A 15-man group of businessmen from Turkey recently visited the city to explore business potentials and promote good relationship between Philippines and Turkey, this revealed City Information Officer (IO) Sheila Covarrubias in a press statement.

Covarrubias said the group of Turkish businessmen was headed by Irfan Karabulut, President, Turkish Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (TCCP).

While in the city, the group met with local businessmen and visited various sites for possible business tie up and partnership Covarrubias shared.

“Karabulut said Zamboanga City has much potential not only for business ventures but also tourism,” Covarrubias said.

The lady IO stressed “Karabulut’s group will pursue partnership opportunities to boost economy and trade.”

City mayor Celso Lobregat said the visit of the Turkish businessmen is a proof of the relationship between the Philippines and Turkey. “I am happy that Zamboanga is a home away from home of our Turkish friends,” the mayor said.

The visit of the group of Turkish businessmen was hosted by the Filipino Turkish Tolerance School (FTTS) here.

Covarrubias shared, Zamboanga City has served as the second home to a growing Turkish community.

Since the establishment of the FTTS in Zamboanga City in 1997, the city has seen Turkish nationals coming in as tourists, businessmen, students and professionals.

Covarrubias said over the years the Turkish community here has learned to assimilate with local residents and has become an active partner in fostering peace and harmony among Muslims and Christians.

WMSU, Land Bank ink MOA

By Ekeena O. Lim, WMSU-PAO

Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) once again has translated its illustrious slogan—La universidad na servicio del communidad [The university in service for the community]. July 22 marked another milestone for the university as it entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Land Bank of the Philippines in line with the project “Technology Promotion Center Program”. The event was held at the Office of the President’s Conference Room of the university.

The MOA is rooted on the objectives: promote appropriate, updated and sustainable technologies that will generate and enhance production and post-production efficiencies to increase income of farmers and fisher folk; the bank’s lending programs through technology validation and facilitate the development of enterprises of farmers, fisher folk and SMEs through technology transfer coupled with appropriate financial assistance; and lastly to facilitate technology transfer by showcasing sustainable technologies to serve as a learning center for farmers and fisher folk. The rationale of the partnership was delivered by the university’s Vice President for Research, Development and Extension and concurrent Vice President for Academic Affairs—Dr. Milabel E. Ho during the brief program prior to the MOA signing.

WMSU President-Dr. Grace J. Rebollos together with Dr. Milabel E. Ho, Land Bank President and CEO Gilda E. Pico and EVP/Head of the ADBS-Land Bank—Wilfredo C. Maldia sealed the MOA. Present during the event were several WMSU officials and deans and other representatives of the Land Bank of the Philippines.

In lieu with the project, Land Bank will serve as a channel for countryside development by providing financial/credit assistance to small scale farmers to improve their economic activities through establishing viable technologies as a livelihood activity especially on high-value lowland crops. Land Bank will provide funds for the selected technology, while WMSU will establish demo farms to showcase the performance of high-yielding crops.

Setting up of techno-demo farm is one of the activities under the management of the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development and Extension. With a timeframe of 12 months, there are four techno-demo farms under its supervision: Palayamanan and Organic Fertilizer, Organic Rice, Banana Tissue Culture, Agro Forestry on high value crops; and a community extension on Recycled Paper and Feather Board as the fifth component.

The College of Agriculture and the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies at the WMSU-San Ramon Campus will provide the technology demonstration farm as the training center for Agriculture stakeholders in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Zambo farmers urged to sell their palay to NFA

By R.G. A A. Go

The National Food Authority (NFA) has urged local farmers in Zamboanga City to sell their palay to its office so the local farmers can avail of the incentives it is giving to the farmers who are selling their palay to the NFA.

In an exclusive interview, NFA Zamboanga City Provincial Manager Gaudencio Nuega Jr. told Zamboanga Today that if they are going to sell their palay to NFA they will get additional incentives.

"From January to present, no farmers yet went to the NFA office to sell their produced particularly palay," Nuega said.

It was learned from Nuega that the reason why the local farmers do not sell their palay to the NFA because the traders are buying it at a higher price and that the farmers are also indebted to the traders and also the "suki system."

The NFA is buying palay to farmers at P17.00 per kilo. However, the palay must be cleaned and dried with 14% moisture and its purity must be 95% to 100%.

Aside from this, the office is giving a Cooperative Development Incentive of 30 centavos per kilogram if cooperative will sell the palay, drying fee of 20 centavos per kilogram, and delivery fee of 20 centavos per kilogram for delivery fee if the palay will be delivered by the farmer to the NFA.

To encourage the farmers to sell their palay to the NFA, the office created a procurement team to check on areas such as Manicahan, Curuan, and Mercedes, where they can possibly buy palay from the farmers.

The rice requirement for the city alone is 6,000 bags of rice per day. There are some 420 retailers selling NFA rice in this city mostly located at Sta. Cruz Public Market, Old Public Market while others are NFA accredited outlets.

19 PR Kidney Transplant in Zamboanga City

(MARY KRISTHINE ENRIQUEZ, R.N. WMMC TRANSPLANT COORDINATOR)

The Management of Western Mindanao Medical Center, recently announced that organ transplantation will soon be a reality in the City of Zamboanga.

Western Mindanao Medical Center, a tertiary hospital was duly accredited by the Department of Health to perform Kidney Transplantation, after the success of the initial inspection conducted last May 25, 2011 by the representatives from the Department of Health and the National Kidney Transplant Institute composed of Dr. Raymond Majini, Dr. Josephine Valdez, Dr. Arwin Ronsayro, Fr. Manuel Perez, Mr. Alfonso Favis and Ms. Alice Baquiran.

An initiatory activity a two set of forum will be held at the Grand Astoria Hotel on July 22, 2011 from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. and 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. The theme of the forum is “Resuscitating the Deceased Organ Donation Program” This will be sponsored by the Philippine Organ Donation Program of the Department of Health and National Kidney Transplant Institute in coordination with Western Mindanao Medical Center and REDCOP.

The first forum will be open for the Medical Representatives with a registration at 9:00 A.M., to be followed by the National Anthem to be led by Mary Kristhine M. Enriquez, R.N., Transplant Coordinator of WMMC. Dr. Paterno Cabrera III. WMMC president will welcome participants, then a message from Dr. Aristides Tan, DOH Regional Director.

Expected to share valuable information with regards to the program are: Dr. Antonio Paraiso, Program Manager for Operation PODP-DOH. He will relate the “History of Organ Donation in the Philippines”, Transplant Coordinator HOPE, Elizabeth Y. Bautista, will discuss “Donor Eligibility; Criteria”, Ma. Grace Saguitan will expound on “Organ Procurement Process” and again Dr. Antonio Paraiso, will talk on the “Introduction to Organ Donation”.

The second forum will be at 1:00 P.M. the moderator will be Reynaldo Lagasca, M.D, consultant for advocacy, REDCOP, Dr. Michael Abutazil will deliver the Closing Remarks. This activity is open to the public and registration is free.

Incidentally, the idea of an Organ Transplantation at Western Mindanao Medical Center, was first brought to the attention of WMMC Management by Dr. Michael Abutazil with the participation of two surgeons from Cagayan de Oro namely Dr. Jayson J. Sangkula and Dr. John N. Ahalajal.

When this program will be functional, the residents of Mindanao will be highly benefited. Patients who need transplant need not to go to Manila or Cebu. Cost of surgery, hospitalization and transportation will be much less.

Turkish businessmen explore Zamboanga’s potentials

By Bong Garcia

A 15-MAN group of businessmen from Turkey arrived in Zamboanga City Monday to explore business potentials, as well as promote good relationship between the Philippines and Turkey.

The group’s visit is hosted by the Filipino Turkish Tolerance School (FTTS), a fitting example of Philippine-Turkish friendship that is getting stronger and vibrant.

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The 15-man group is headed by Irfan Karabulut, president of the Turkish Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, an affiliate of the Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists of Turkiye (Tuskon).

While in this city, the group will meet with local businessmen and visit various sites for possible business partnerships.

The group will also meet with the officials of the City Government, including top officials from the military and police and various sectors.

In a dinner dubbed “Philippine-Turkey Night” and tendered by the FTTS community headed by School Director Mehmet Cetin Sunday, the businessmen expressed appreciation to Zamboanga City through Mayor Celso Lobregat for the hospitality and friendship.

Karabulut said the city have many potentials not only for business ventures but also tourism.

Karabulut said his group will pursue partnership opportunities to boost economy and trade.

For his part, Lobregat thanked the businessmen whom he said are in this city “not only to look for business prospects, but most all to promote the time-tested friendship between our countries, to learn and appreciate our Chabacano cultures and tradition.”

Lobregat said that Zamboanga City takes pride in being a second home to a growing Turkish community, stressing that since the establishments of the FTTS in 1997, the city has seen Turkish nationals coming in as tourists, businessmen, students and professionals.

Some are in the city to study at the local universities like Ateneo de Zamboanga University (Adzu) and Western Mindanao State University (WMSU).

Over the years, Lobregat said the Turkish community has learned to assimilate with the local residents and has become an active partner in fostering peace and harmony among Muslims and Christians.

“In particular, the Turkish residents in Zamboanga City have demonstrated in many ways than one their unconditional support and assistance to the local folks, especially the poor, for which I am very grateful to each and every one of you,” Lobregat said.

City Dev’t Council endorses supplemental 2012 LDIP-AIP

by Sheila Covarrubias

The City Development Council (CDC) Friday unanimously endorsed the P865.9 million supplemental Local Development Investment Plan (LDIP) for 2012. At the same time, the CDC headed by Mayor Celso Lobregat unanimously approved and endorsed the P1.64 million 2012 annual investment plan (AIP).

The LDIP is a wish list of projects for priority implementation in 2012 while the AIP is the list of projects included for funding in the 2012 budget. The projects included in the LDIP and the AIP are based on the recommendations of the barangay councils and the non-government organizations and other members of the CDC.

Of the total P1.6 billion 2012 AIP, P1.4million is for infrastructure projects while P232 million is for equipment. Mayor Lobregat said the CDC meeting is the first step in budget preparation, after which the City’s Finance Committee will meet and consult with different offices and even the barangays before finalizing and submitting to the City Council the 2012 proposed executive budget.

The P865.9 million supplemental LDIP is on top of the 2012 LDIP of P1.4 billion as approved last August 10, 2010. But even if approved and endorsed by the CDC, the list of projects in the 2012 LDIP will be subject to revisions or amendments to be proposed by the different barangays and NGOs concerned on or before July 20. The projects cover the 10 flagship projects identified in the City Development Strategy and these include development of parks and gardens, development of the city’s resettlement projects, construction of barangay water supply projects, construction of sewage, drainage and flood control projects; construction of school buildings; development of public cemeteries; expansion of city road network; construction of sanitary landfill facility and transfer stations; construction of integrated bus terminal and construction of a multi-level commercial parking deck and retail building/market complex.

“This is a concrete example of participatory governance”, the mayor said in an interview stressing that the CDC is composed of the 98 barangays, 2 congressional offices, NGOs, office of the city mayor, and the Council chairmen of the Committees on appropriation and barangay affairs.

Lobregat has successfully laid the foundation for good governance during his first term in 2004-2007, allowing the city of Zamboanga to reap the fruits of his labor in his second term when billions worth of infrastructure projects were implemented with adequate funds still available for accelerated social services and privileges and benefits for workers and volunteers.

In his third term, Mayor Lobregat has promised to undertake more projects and programs for the city given the stable financial condition of the city. With the CDC approval of the LDIP and AIP, the two documents will be forwarded to the City Council for proper action.

In his message during the CDC meeting held at the Garden Orchid Hotel convention center, the mayor announced the impending decrease in the city’s Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) share starting next year as advised by the Department of Budget and Management in view of two things: the decrease in collection of taxes in 2009 and the conversion of 16 municipalities into cities even without following the requirements under the law.

The resolution endorsing the LDIP was authored by Councilor Abdurahman Nuno while the resolution endorsing the AIP was authored by Councilor Nonong Guingona.

Present during the CDC meeting Friday morning were House Deputy Speaker Beng Climaco, Vice Mayor Cesar Iturralde, Councilors Nonong Guingona, Abdurahman Nuno, Percival Ramos, Lilia Nuno, Eddie Saavedra, Joana Mas and VP Elago, city department heads, barangay chairman from the city’s 98 barangays and representatives from the civil society and private sector.

Celso exhorts media to adhere to 5 Cs

by Sheila Covarrubias

Mayor Celso Lobregat Saturday night exhorted media practitioners in the city continue pursuing responsible press freedom as he underscored the need for them to also adhere to 5Cs, his hallmark or seal of governance in the remaining two years of his third term.

“Like the employees of City Hall, the media should always follow the 5Cs”, the mayor said in his keynote speech during the 30th Induction of the Zamboanga Press Club Inc. officers Saturday night. The 5 Cs referred to were conscience, commitment, consistency, competence and courage.

He said: “Press freedom is subject to ethics that dictate you to make sure your articles contain factual data. Do not publish inaccurate information, or if you must, at least make it clear that it is in doubt. Never intentionally mislead your readers for in this day and age where public perception can be the biggest obstacle we have to hurdle — accurate, factual and balanced information should be dished out.”

The 5Cs, he said is only one way of maintaining responsible press freedom. Media practitioners, he said should have conscience for them to know and discern what is right, commitment and consistency for them to do right all the time not just sometimes or some of the time, competence for them to know how to do right and courage so that they can distinguish what is right and popular and do what is always right.

Mayor Lobregat emphasized that the media’s basic responsibility is to inform and report the truth, to help strengthen and support democratic processes, to act as government watchdog, a gatekeeper and instrument to disseminate necessary information and as a reflection of cultural interests and trends. You are the chief purveyors of information and opinion about public affairs.

“Yours is the discipline of collecting, analyzing, verifying and presenting information regarding current events, trends, issues and people. Your articles should be a product of careful analysis of credible facts supported by evidence. If you must expose ill-doings, do it because it is the right thing to do and not because you have an axe to grind”, he said.

The mayor added: “The truth must be your only master, your prime motivation. You have the power to influence public opinion and, the greater that power is, the greater the urge to abuse it. Be careful not to use such power to further selfish interests, lest you lose your credibility. Never knowingly serve the public with fabricated, distorted or half-truths.”

The mayor was the keynote speaker during the 30th induction ceremony of the Zamboanga Press Club which was also attended by House Deputy Speaker Beng Climaco, Vice Mayor Cesar Iturralde, District II Cong. Erbie Fabian (represented by Edgar Baños), ARMM Assemblywoman Rajam Akbar, PNP-9 Director Elpidio de Asis, Task Force Basilan chief Col Alex Macadio, City Police OIC Director Col. Edwin de Ocampo and some members of the City Council.

The new set of ZPCI officers is headed by Phillip Abuy of RPN-DXXX. He took over the helm from his colleague Gerry Lacastesantos.

Food fest at Plaza del Pilar draws crowd

by Richard Aliangan(City Hall PIO)

The first-ever Festival de Comidas y Alegria drew a crowd of food aficionados last night, turning Plaza del Pilar into a fiesta mode with live music and variety of foods to choose from.

The opening program started off with a heart-pumping drum and lyre exhibition from Tumaga Central School followed by the ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Mayor Celso Lobregat and Department of Tourism-9 Acting Regional Director Ms. Mary June Bugante.

The City Government and DOT were partner-organizers of the event that brought together 7 notable hotels and restaurants in the City offering seven variants of three-course dishes only at P100.00.

Mayor Celso Lobregat thanked the participating hotels and restaurants namely Garden Orchid Hotel, Lantaka Hotel, La Viña Hotel, Alavar’s Seafoods House, Palmeras Restaurant, Country Chicken Restaurant and Chinito’s D’ Gathering Place.

Each participant had its own booth where they served their palatable cuisines with a combined motif of local, Spanish, American, Chinese and Japanese dishes. Walk-in guests were also treated with gifts certificates and other items courtesy of San Miguel Brewery as sponsor of the said event.

Live music also added to the excitement of the activity which will last until tomorrow from 6 to 10 in the evening.

Zambo power coop reduces brownouts

  • Source: hhttp://www.mb.com.ph/articles/326922/zambo-power-coop-reduces-brownouts
  • Friday, July 15, 2011, 3:38pm
(With a report from PNA)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Frequent brownouts, which have adversely affected business flow and other productive endeavors in this highly urbanized city during the whole period of 2010 have been minimized through appropriate measures initiated by the new management of the Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative (Zamcelco)

Electrical Engineer Jesus Y. Castro, installed in January, 2011 by the National Electrification Administration (NEA) as cooperative project supervisor and lately named new Zamcelco acting general manager, noted that the power cooperative, which boasts of some 100,000 member-consumers, was previously losing heavily, due to frequent brownouts, in the tune of some 6,000,000 kilowatt-hour (kwh) every month which, sold at the rate of P6 per Kwh, was valued at P36 million every 30 days.

Adopting several appropriate steps, Castro, formerly assigned as general manager of the Zamboanga del Sur Electric Cooperative II (Zamsureco II) based in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, was able to reduce the firm’s monthly six million power loss to two million Kwh, which enabled Zamcelco to increase its monthly sales by about four million Kwh.

Sold at P6 per Kwh, Castro said, the company was able to accumulate power sales of P24 million in the first month of 2011, and virtually the same amount for the succeeding months of February, March, April, May, and June.

Castro – who during his Zamsureco II stint was elevated by NEA to its “Hall of Fame” after selecting him the country’s “Outstanding General Manager” for five consecutive years – said Zamcelco then was able to accumulate a total revenue sales of P144 million in the period of six months.

The Ilocano cooperative executive largely attributed the reduction of brownouts in the entire city to intensive improvement of maintenance of the whole system, which the betterment he credited to the technical expertise of Engineer Federico Villar, who was named by NEA as technical assistant to the cooperative’s project supervisor/general manager.

Other steps initiated by Castro in an effort to lessen brownouts included citywide clearing of rights-of-way often obstructed, usually during typhoons or heavy rains, by fallen trees or their broken branches, which ruined electrical cables, replacement of old or destroyed electric poles, frequent monitoring of transformer loads to avoid overloading and eventual destruction, immediate replacement of broken insulators, and tightening of loose connections.

Several local electric consumers, apparently criticizing Zamcelco before for its numerous deficiencies, have hailed Castro for reducing brownouts in the City of Flowers, and his creativity in addressing the company’s ailments left by his predecessor who was earlier removed, together with eight members of the Board of Directors, for various irregularities, which allegedly weakened the firm’s financial condition.

Meanwhile, Festival de Comidas y Alegrias, the first-ever food festival showcasing the best locally-prepared cuisines, reeled off last night at the Plaza del Pilar in this southern port city.

Department of Tourism (DoT) Regional Director Mary June Bugante said the festival will run until tonight from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Organized by her office in partnership with the city government here, Bugante said the two-night Festival de Comidas y Alegrias will be participated in by seven notable hotels and restaurants which will set up booths where they will serve their three-course meal for only P100.

Bugante said the food festival is a fitting and timely event since July is observed as Kulinarya or culinary Month.

The event intends to present a unique fusion of local, Spanish, American, Japanese, and Chinese cuisines, Bugante stressed.

Bugante said food aficionados will also be entertained with additional gimmicks to include nightly raffle draw, where winners will receive gift certificates, cultural presentation, flair bartending, fruit carving showcase and renditions of Chavacano music.

Investments, exports to grow 10% in Region IX

(PNA/PIA9-BST)

The Agency Convergence for Comprehensive Entrepreneurship Support Services (ACCESS) program in Region IX will be a key contributor to the economic development of the region through the creation and growth of small and medium enterprises (SME).

Sitti Amina Jain, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) assistant regional director and the brain behind the ACCESS project, said the DTI sees at least 10 percent increment in this region’s export revenues, private sector investments and jobs created as a direct result of the ACCESS program.

ACCESS targets the region’s SMEs which will be provided with business support services in the areas of Business and Investment Enabling Environment (BIEE); Access to Finance (A2F); Access to Market (A2M); and Productivity and Efficiency (P&E).

ACCESS, Jain said, was unique to Region IX and was conceptualized as a mechanism to institutionalize the inter-agency activities of the SME Core Group that were supportive of the SME sector.

“We envision not just the proliferation of SMEs but that these SMEs are growing from one stage to the next, hopefully, until they become exporters. Without institutionalized, sustained and targeted support just like what the SME Core is doing now, this probably would not materialize at the pace we wanted them to grow, if they grow at all,” Jain said.

“That is why we have a profile of each SME we are assisting so we will know exactly at what stage they are upon enrollment to the program; we know exactly just what support they need at each stage and we know the pace of their growth from this year to the next,” Jain said.

She said at least a thousand SMEs had been identified and enrolled for support during the next five years in the entire region.

Additionally, she said the ACCESS program hoped to realize a 10 percent increase in the number of SMEs from the manufacturing, processing and agri-business.

“At each stage, there is a menu of support activities that had been pre-identified for each SME so that the DTI SME Counselor assigned to nursemaid said SME knows exactly what, where, when and how exactly to support it”, she said.

"Because, the SME Core Group works closely as a team, there is better coordination of activities, schedule synchronization, and more effective and efficient delivery of services at the least cost to government by minimizing if not eliminating duplication of functions," she said.

“With the kind of support we are getting from our partner agencies and even from the private sector, we are confident we will be able to realize that 10 percent annual target of incremental growth in employment, investments and exports from the SMEs we are assisting,” Jain said.

Jul. 17-23 is 33rd National Disability Prevention week

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez (JPA/ PIA9 Zambo City)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 13 (PIA) –- The Regional Council on Disability Affairs (RCDA) will spearhead the celebration of the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week on July 17-23, bared Leila Awis of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Awis said the celebration will kick off with a Motorcade on July 18 followed by a Holy Mass while a forum on the rights of the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) is set on the 19th. A PWD Congress is also set on same day in one of the local hotels here.

Other activities in line with the celebration include free dental services on Jul. 20 and a variety show on July 23, medical assessment and newborn screening will also be conducted in line with the celebration, with the Department of Health (DOH) taking the lead.

Meanwhile, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse M. Robredo in a memorandum circular 2011-81 called on local chief executives (LCEs) to celebrate this year's NDPR week and commemorate the theme, which is "Making the Rights Real for Filipinos with Disabilities" by calling the public's attention to the plight and challenges faced by PWDs.


PhilEXIM to present products, services to Zambo business sec

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez (JPA/ PIA9 Zambo City)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 12 (PIA) –- Large corporations and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) here will have the opportunity to explore other means or source of financial requirements when it comes to expanding their business, as the Philippine Export-Import (PhilEXIM) Credit Agency is set to conduct a business presentation on July 14 in one of the local hotels here.

PhilEXIM, a government financing institution attached to the Department of Finance (DOF) in coordination with the Zamboanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc., (ZCCIFI) and the Zamboanga City Investment Office (ZCIO) will present its products and services as the business sector’s partner towards progress.

The city’s business sector is expected to attend this special presentation dubbed "PhilEXIM Products and Services: Your Partner in Progress,” as this will benefit the sector especially local large corporations and SMEs planning to expand and grow their business as PhilEXIM will explain how it can help the sector in its financial requirements.

PhilEXIM has a mandate to extend sovereign guarantee in favor of either direct or indirect export and import substitution enterprises.

It is the financing arm of the Philippine Government; it has strong commitment to assist in the development of the export and identified priority industries.

The guarantee of PhilEXIM provides a beneficial financing to any firm aince it will allow flexibility in negotiating for better terms and tenors with any financing institution, as the franchise carries zero-risk weight and the full faith and credit of the Republic of the Philippines.

PhilEXIM has successfully guaranteed projects that are under the priority sectors of agri0modernization, infrastructure, power/energy generation or distribution, mining, information and communication technology (ICT), Business Process Outsourcing (BPOs)/Call Centers/IT-enabled services, tourism, utilities, automotive/transport services, marine fleet modernization and shipbuilding.

Celso calls for summit on port management

By Sheila Covarrubias

Mayor Celso Lobregat requests the conduct of a summit to ensure effective coordinative effort in the management of port operations in the city as a way of streamlining or identifying the functions of each and every agency involved in port management.

This, in view of the existence of numerous ports—both legal and unauthorized in the different coastal areas of the city that most often becomes the entry and exit points of some contraband items such as black corrals including victims of human trafficking.

Mayor Lobregat has written Marine Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Emerson Lorenzo, who is a member of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Board, to help facilitate the conduct of a summit to be held in Zamboanga City to tackle the issue.

The mayor noticed that there are so many agencies involved in managing port operations which make the monitoring of the different ports partly difficulty and complicating. While the Philippine Ports Authority is the one supposed to regulate and supervise the operation of commercial ports, other agencies are also involved in the same function such as the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources including the local government and many others. Due to lack of manpower, the PPA could not monitor the operations of all the ports. The Sangali Fishing Port is not under the PPA but under another agency.

“There has to be policy decisions made. Where does the jurisdiction of one agency end and where does the jurisdiction of the other agency begin”, the mayor said stressing that the matter requires a well-coordinated effort to ensure that all operations of ports in the city are properly monitored.

A summit, he emphasized would be one venue where such policies could be straightened and strengthened to ensure an effective and efficient management of ports in the city. The investigation on the illegal trade of black corrals and other protected marine products at the Senate has named Zamboanga City as a transshipment of the illegal items. The mayor believes that the existence of numerous illegal or unauthorized ports is one of the contributory factors to the problem.

WFP to distribute Vita Nutrient mix to Zambo children

By (PNA)RMA/Teofilo P. Garcia/rsm

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 10 (PNA) -– The World Food Programme (WFP), a United Nations (UN) agency, in coordination with the City Health Office, is set to distribute in this city starting August a health mix that will help boost immune system of children.

WFP head Masanobu Horie said the Vita Nutrient mix--a powder mix packed with 15 vitamins and minerals--will be given to children from six months to two years old.

Horie said the Vita Nutrient mix would not affect the taste of the food of the children thus assuring the parents that their children absorb the essential nutrients, including Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, C, D, E, Folic Acid, Iron, Iodine, Copper, Zinc, and Selenium.

Horie said the Vita Nutrient mix is easy to use as it could be mixed in any household food given to children.

Horie said the health mix has been distributed to many countries by the WFP and is found to have good effects on the health of the children.

Aside from boosting the immune system, the health mix also serves as an appetite booster.

City health officer Dr. Rodel Agbulos said the Vita Nutrient Mix will be made available in all health centers in this city's 98 barangays.

Aquino government committed towards improving lives of citizens

By Mindanao Examiner

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / July 9, 2011) - President Benigno Aquino III remains committed to improving the lives of all Filipinos, especially the poor, through the development of plans and programs that will enhance their skill to become productive members of society.

Socio-economic planning Secretary Cayetano Paderanga, Jr. said this commitment is conceptualized in the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016.

The PDP is anchored on President Benigno S. Aquino III’s 16-point “Social Contract with the Filipino People,” which envisions inclusive growth, or growth that is shared by all, for the country.

Paderanga said during the Pilipinas Natin Forum aired over government radio station on Wednesday that the President wants no Filipino left behind as the country rises to greater heights under his stewardship.

“Nung kampanya pa lang ay mayroon na siyang social contract with the Filipino people. At pinaka-importanteng objective nito ay employment generation, yung pagbibigay ng trabaho sa tao, at poverty reduction,” Paderanga said in a statement.

“At ito ay ginagawa natin through inclusive growth kung saan sama-sama tayong umaasenso lahat at walang maiiwan. Ito’y importanteng objective ng ating administrasyon,” he added.

“Kaya kailangan pati yung mga naiiwan sana, yung mga walang kapasidad na sumama sa karakter ng global growth ngayon, kung saan kailangan ng capital, ay kailangan nating tulungan para madala natin silang lahat,” Paderanga said.

President Aquino had earlier authorized the release of P700-million to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to beef up the agency’s Training for Work Scholarship Program that aims to equip poor but deserving individuals with the necessary skills to qualify for jobs in “in demand” industries.

These industries, according to Paderanga, include business process outsourcing, tourism, agro-industrial processing and infrastructure, among others.

Binay strengthening machinery, says local political analysts

By Nonong Santiago

Many local political analysts believe that Vice President Jejomar Binay is strengthening his political party machinery all over the country in preparation for his possible presidential bid in 2016.

On Wednesday afternoon, Binay, who chairs the PDP Laban Party, led the oath taking of local politicians including barangay leaders, majority of whom are members of the opposition in the city, at Grand Astoria Hotel.

In his message, Binay thanked the new members for believing in his party.

He said the PDP Laban does not believe in the quantity of members but in the quality of leadership of those joining the party.

Binay reminded the newcomers to remain steadfast with the party saying he does not want political butterflies.

“Through thick and thin I will forever remain with the PDP Laban. You will not regret being with this party. This is the kind of leadership this party can provide that would lead the country to progress,” he told the new recruits.

Among those who joined the party of the Vice President are former Vice Mayors Mannix Dalipe and Susan delos Reyes, Councilors Rommel Agan, Jawo Jimenez, Mel Sadain and Rudy Bayot, former Councilors Atty. Kim Elago, Jihan Edding and Gerry Acuna, and youth leaders Jerico Bustamante and JV Bue.

Yesterday morning, Binay who chairs the Housing and Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), led housing authorities in the “Region 9 and ARMM Pabahay Caravan 2011” at the Garden Orchid Hotel, this city.

The program was in line with Binay’s thrust to build a stronger partnership with LGUs to deliver quality homes to poor dwellers in the region.

Binay encourage LGU officials to work together with the national government in accelerating shelter production and enhancing the delivery of housing services to the people.

The vice president also led in the distribution of Transfer Certificate of Titles (TCT) to several beneficiaries from Sulu, Pagadian City and Zamboanga City.

The housing event was the sixth conducted this year with the last five caravans held in Cebu, Baguio City, Tagaytay City, Davao and Pampanga.


DENR optimistic on success of greening program in Region 9

by R.G. A A. Go

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources IX (DENR) has expressed optimism that Executive Order No. 26, known as the National Greening Program (NGP), signed by President Benigno S. Aquino III will be successful in Region 9 due to the support being shown by the local government.

“I am very very optimistic that we can do it. Sa nakikita kong interest ng local government I think we cannot fail," DENR Regional Executive Director Arleigh J. Adorable told local reporters in an interview.

"This is because “we had an initial meeting and we got their commitment to help us attain the goal,” Adorable added, referring to the stakeholders.

The NGP aims to plant 1.5 Billion trees in 1.5 million hectares for a period of six years which will also bring convergence with stakeholders and other concerned agencies.

Lands to be planted with trees includes forestlands, mangrove, protected areas, ancestral domains, civil and military reservations, and urban areas.

The program objectives are anchored on Human Security where there will be increased in household incomes, enhanced environmental stewardship, and improved general well-being of communities, Economic Security, increased in economic activity, increased interrest in technology and business development, increased production of crops and forest-based materials and Ecological Security which includes increase in environmental stability, and sustained provision of ecosystem goods and services.

Meanwhile, Adorable said he was impressed with the efforts of the City Government when thousands attended the City Government's celebration of Arbor Day na Ciudad de Zamboanga which was held last Saturday morning at Climaco Freedom Park in Abong-Abong and other locations in this city.

He said that “it was very successful and I would like to give my salute to the local leaders particularly the Mayor of Zamboanga, Celso Lobregat for making the Arbor Day celebration a possibility.”

The DENR Regional Executive Director added that the Mayor does not only want to plant trees but also nurture the planted trees.

During the Arbor Day at Climaco Freedom Park , the participants planted trees like yakal, apitong, and other types of endemic trees.

Adorable said, in this site “what we are planting are trees that endemic trees o yung nakikitang puno sa ating mga kagubatan. We want to showcase trees that are growing in our region like yakal, apitong, which are tress that cannot be found in other countries endemic ito saatin.”

He also said that “we want to show to our students na ito yung mga kahoy na tumutubo sa atin.”

VP Binay gets warm welcome in Zamboanga City

by Mindanao Examiner

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / July 6, 2011) – Philippine Vice President Jejomar Binay arrived Wednesday in Zamboanga City in Mindanao where he led the oath-taking of new members of his political party called PDP-Laban.

Binay, accompanied by PDP-Laban Secretary-General Jose de Venecia III, was overwhelmed by supporters outside the airport. Binay, who is the party’s Chairman, waved to the crowds as he walked to his convoy. “Binay…Binay,” his supporters chanted.

PDP-Laban is the acronym for Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan. It is a merger of two major political parties – Partido Demokratiko Pilipino, founded by Senator Aquilino Pimentel Jr in 1982 – and - Lakas ng Bayan, founded by former Senator Benigno Aquino, the father of current Filipino President Benigno Aquino III.

Prominent politicians led by former Zamboanga City Vice Mayor Jose Manuel Dalipe welcomed the vice President together with Councilors Rommel Agan, Melchor Sadain, Cesar Jimenez, Rudy Bayot among other well-known personalities here.

Binay’s group also met with leaders of various civil groups and organizations and later led the oath-taking of new party members at the Astoria Regency hotel. Local PDP-Laban leaders and supporters headed by environmentalist Jericho Bustamante and former councilors Juan Elago, Susan delos Reyes and Al-Jihann Edding were also at the hotel to welcome Binay.

“Hindi po kayo magsisisi sa pagiging miyembro ng PDP-Laban dahil tunay na serbisyo ang ating ibinibigay sa bayan,” (You will not regret being a member of the PDP-Laban because we offer true public service to the country) ani Binay na siyang Chairman ng naturang partido.

Senator Aquilino Pimentel III, the party’s President, was not with Binay’s group, although a huge sign welcoming him was seen hanging at the hotel.

After the oath-taking, Binay posed with supporters for pictures and was also spotted joking around and had his photos taken together with a newly-wed couple at the hotel lobby.

“He is so friendly and soft-spoken and we are so happy to see him in Zamboanga. He is popular here,” Astia Santiago, one of the guests at the hotel, told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.

Police hold bomb detection, identification seminar

by Bong Garcia

THE Explosive Ordnance Demolition (EOD) office of the Zamboanga City police command has conducted a one-day seminar on identification and detection of Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

City Hall Community Public Assistance Center chief Domingo Arguilla said a total of 150 participants attended the seminar held Sunday.

Arguilla said the participants included members of Zamboanga City's traffic enforcers, government street sweepers, and security personnel detailed at the waterfront public market, Sta. Cruz Commercial Complex, Plaza del Pilar and Paseo del Mar.

Arguilla said the seminar aimed to equip the participants with the knowledge on bomb identification and detection since they are watching over public places where people converge.

The EOD personnel also showed possible materials that can be used in making bombs, and where bombs can possibly be placed, such as bike, thermos, books, dolls, bag pack, and others, Arguilla said.


Lobregat sets ‘5 Cs’ as hallmark for next 2 years

by Sheila Covarrubias

Mayor Celso Lobregat the other day exhorted city government officials and employees to adhere to the ‘5 Cs’ formula that should serve as the hallmark or seal of the present administration in the remaining two years of his third term.

Speaking before city officials and employees after the first Friday mass last July 1, the mayor enumerated the 5 C’s as conscience, commitment, consistency, competence and courage.

Service to the public must be marked by the 5C’s to ensure quality, efficient and effective service to the people, the mayor told the officials and employees attending the mass, which was also graced by District II Congressman Erbie Fabian.

The first Friday mass, July 1st, coincided with the first day of the second year of elected city officials that include the mayor, vice mayor, the two congresspersons and the 16 councilors. It was on July 1, 2010 when the elected officials of the city as well as of other Local Government Units in the country, officially assumed their posts following the May 10 elections. Their three-year term will expire on June 30, 2013.

Mayor Lobregat said all city officials and employees should have conscience for them to know and discern what is right, commitment and consistency for them to do right all the time not just sometimes or some of the time, competence for them to know how to do right and courage so that they can distinguish what is right and popular and do what is always right.

He reiterated that in the next two years of his administration, he will ask more from city government workers but assured that he will not ask anything from the officials and employees if he himself is not ready to do. “This is leading by example”.

The mayor likewise vowed that he will not rest and relent in the effort to accomplish the projects and programs he had set out to do. “Much has been done and much more will be done”, he stressed.


Zambo City Health Office to launch Vita Nutrient Mix

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez

Zamboanga City, July 03 (PIA) -- The City Health Office (CHO) is set to launch this month the Vita Nutrient Mix (VNM) of the World Food Organization (WFO).

VNM is a micronutrient powder containing 15 vitamins and minerals.

CHO is a press statement said the VNM will be given for free to children through the various health centers in the city.

Distribution of the VNM will start this coming August.

VNM is intended for children ages six (6) months to two (2) years old.

VNM can be consumed directly as a juice by diluting it with water or mixed with the food or milk of the children.

The health office said, with the free distribution of VNM to children, CHO hopes that children will have a boosted immune system for a healthier growth.

The launching of the VNM is one of the activities lined up for the Nutrition Month celebration this July. (JPA/PIA9 Zambo City)


Zambo City mayor to trike franchise holders: Pay franchises to avoid cancellation

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez (PIA9)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 2 (PIA) – - “Avoid cancellation of your franchises and other inconveniences, renew your franchises and settle your fees today,” called on City Mayor Celso Lobregat to over 2,000 tricycle franchise holders who have not renewed their franchises and paid the corresponding fees as of April 26.

Lobregat made this reminder in consonance with the City Treasurer’s Office (CTO) May 2 deadline for tricycle franchise holders to comply with their requirements set under the law or face sanctions.

Data gathered revealed that payment deadline for the renewal of such was January 20 yet, coinciding with the payment of business taxes and other fees related to business permits renewal but CTO has so far recorded over 2000 tricycle franchise holders who has not complied with the law.

City Information Officer Sheila Covarrubias said Mayor Lobregat has ordered the Tricycle Adjudication Board (TAB) to enforce the law after the May 2 deadline.

“Colorum units caught operating will be impounded and the owner/operator of the said unit will be meted with sanctions provided in the law” said Covarrubias.

“Colorum” units are referred to those franchise holders who have not paid the fees and renewed their franchises.

Covarrubias explained Ordinance 185, otherwise known as “An ordinance prescribing the operation of tricycles and granting franchise for the operations thereof within the territorial jurisdiction of the city of Zamboanga” includes provisions of the requirements and sanctions in cases on non compliance.

The sanctions include the cancellation of franchise granted to the owner or operator apart from the administrative penalties.

It can be recalled; City treasurer Soledad Li last week issued the May 2 “ultimatum” for tricycle franchise holders to settle their accounts with CTO or face the consequence.

TAB records reveal, of the 7,144 tricycle franchise holders, only 4,604 have complied with the requirements.

Zamboanga City jail will be smoke free starting August 4

by R.G. A A. Go

The Zamboanga City Jail is set to prohibit the entry of cigarettes inside the facility effective July 4 and eventually impose a total smoking ban on August 4.

Zamboanga City Jail Operations Chief, Jail Inspector Belsie Agustin said this is in compliance with the memorandum send by the Regional Director of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology IX (BJMP) J/C Supt. Deogracias Tapayan dated June 2 which has the subject of Smoking Prohibition in National Headquarters, Regional Offices, and all Jail Facilities Nationwide. The Regional Director also instructed all jail warden to implement the said memorandum. He said, it was agreed during a meeting with cell leaders and the BJMP Personnel that the prohibition on the entry of cigarettes inside the jail shall take effect on July 4. However, all cigarettes that are already inside the jail facilities will be allowed to be consumed up to August 4 after the said date, a full implementation of the said policy will be observed.

Agustin added that the program is done for cleanliness and to protect the health of the people working inside the City Jail, visitors, and the inmates.

The memorandum prohibits the smoking, selling, and entry of cigarettes at the vicinity of the City Jail. The new memorandum also considers cigarettes as a contraband where possession or carrying the said item in the jail premises is a violation of the Jail Rules and Regulations.

He said visitors who will try to sneak in cigarettes to the inmates they are visiting will be banned from entering the city jail for three days. If they are caught the second, they will be banned for one month. However, The officers still do not have sanction for visitors who violate the memorandum habitually.

Inmates caught violating the no smoking order will be brought to the grievance committee and the said committee will decide on what sanction to impose.

BJMP personnel caught smoking inside the facility may face administrative sanction.

According to Agustin there are around 18 personnel of the BJMP who are smoking and will be affected by the said memorandum.

Agustin appealed to the visitors to comply with the said order.

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