Zamboanga del Norte News July 2016

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Zamboanga del Norte - Archived News
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Seal of Zamboanga del Norte
Interactive Google Satellite Map of Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines
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Provincial Capitol of Zamboanga del Norte

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.

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Saint James Cathedral in Dapitan City
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City Hall of Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte
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Situbo Falls, Zamboanga del Norte

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.
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Statue of Christ, Pangalalan, Sindangan
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Our lady of the most Holy Rosary, Estaka
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Manukan Mini Museum Landmark

More mining firms to undergo review over alleged violations

By Louise Maureen Simeon (philstar.com)

MANILA, Philippines — Environment Secretary Gina Lopez has bared a new list of mining companies that would undergo extensive review following complaints from the indigenous people of Mindanao.

Lopez had a dialogue with the Lumads of Mindanao Sunday afternoon to hear their sentiments.

"I met with them and they wanted to stop large-scale mining in their provinces. And they were very explicit to the names [of the companies]," she said.

In a phone interview with The STAR, Lopez said the Lumads revealed eight mining firms that are allegedly committing environmental and social violations.

One of which is Canadian-owned TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. in Zamboanga del Norte which is being reviewed over alleged "human rights violation causing demolition and forced evacuation."

In defense, TVI Director Kaycee Crisostomo said the issue is old news dating back in 2012 and clarified that the firm is not driving out people.

"It was the provincial government that formed a multi-agency task force dismantling the illegal small-scale mining operations and not TVI," he said in a separate interview.

Other companies mentioned are St. Augustine Gold & Copper Ltd. in Compostela Valley because of militarization and San Roque Metals Inc. in Agusan del Norte due to siltation and land grabbing complaints.

"The Greenstone Resources Corp. also because chemical waste goes to Lake Mainit resulting [in] fish kill, as well as Silangan Mining in Surigao del Norte due to open pit mining," Lopez said.

Other companies included are Nickel Asia affiliate Taganito Mining and Chinese company Shenzhou Mining Corp., both in Surigao del Norte and the Tampakan project of Sagittarius Mines Inc. in South Cotabato.

Non-government organization Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) echoed the sentiments of the Lumads saying mining in the southern part of the country has worsened and has affected several communities.

"The situation is Mindanao is very much different, especially in CARAGA. It is where the most number of mining operations and applications are located," ATM national coordinator Jaybee Garganera told The STAR in an interview.

"It is also where the most number of damages can be found and these are not properly monitored. There are a lot of documentations and evidence, and yet the area has the slowest implementation of resolutions," he added.

Earlier, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) has imposed stricter audit standards for mining companies as part of efforts to put a stop to irresponsible mining.

"The comprehensive review will focus on the companies’ compliance with the requirements of the Mining Act of 1995, Environmental Compliance Certificate, Forestry Law, and other laws pertaining to mining. We want to see whether a specific violation will entail suspension of operations," MGB director Leo Jasareno said.

He added that the new round of audit would look beyond regulatory requirements such as the social and economic impact of the mining operations nationwide.

Just recently, Lopez issued her first memorandum order on the official audit of all operating mines and the moratorium on the approval of new mining projects.

In Memorandum Order No. 2016-01, she ordered the audit of all operating and suspended mines while the moratorium covers the acceptance, processing and approval of applications and projects for all metallic and non-metallic minerals.

The order takes effect immediately and "shall remain in force and in effect until formally terminated."

Lopez reiterated that technical audit alone is not enough, as social, environmental, and health aspects are being considered as well.

Among the considerations include affected rice fields and bodies of water and the health of the communities, Lopez said.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is set to release the result of the mining audit of large and small-scale companies next month.

Cops kill 3 drug couriers in Zambo Norte shootout

(PNA), RMA/TPGJR/DENNIS C. BAGUIO

DIPOLOG CITY, Zamboanga del Norte, July 30 (PNA) – Three suspected drug couriers were killed in a shootout with policemen in the nearby town of Liloy this province, police officials said Saturday.

Senior Supt. Edwin Wagan, provincial police director, said the shootout took place around 3:50 p.m. Friday along the national highway in Barangay Overview, Liloy municipality.

Wagan identified the slain suspects as the following: Anwar Sawadjaan, 19; Angelo Hofer, 22; and, Noel Rey Bacalzo, all residents of Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay province.

Prior to the shootout, Wagan said they received report that suspected drug couriers were traveling aboard a pick-up type Black Nissan with plate number VBL-541 from this city to Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Wagan said that policemen from the First Maneuver Company of the Regional Public Safety Battalion-9 (RPSB-9) have immediately set up a checkpoint in Barangay Overview “to possibly block the vehicle and to verify the veracity of the report.”

He said that the policemen have signaled to stop as the black Nissan vehicle was approaching the checkpoint in the area.

However, he said the driver of the vehicle, instead of stopping, “accelerated in high speed and opened fire” that prompted the policemen to return fire that resulted in the death of Sawadjaan and Bacalso.

He said Hofer was rushed to the Liloy District Hospital for treatment but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

He added that that two handguns consisting of a calibre .45 pistol and a calibre .38 revolver were recovered from the slain suspects.

He said also recovered were 10 small-sized transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be “shabu” placed in a large transparent plastic, one pack of suspected shabu wrapped with packaging tape, a hand grenade, live ammunition for calibre .45 pistol and calibre .38 revolver, 25 pieces empty shells of calibre 5.56 millimeter and two mobile phones.

Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, disclosed that they had been monitoring the activities of the suspects.

Beltran said the suspects were part of the group, which they considered as a high-value target group.

6 Zambo Norte policemen receive award for exemplary performance

(PNA), LAP/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 29 (PNA) -– The Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) has awarded the Medalya ng Kagalingan (Medal of Merit) to six policemen assigned in the province of Zamboanga del Norte for having demonstrated exemplary performance while in the line of duty.

Senior Supt. Sofronio Ecaldre, OIC-Regional Chief Directorial Staff, named the awardees as the following: Chief Insp. Joseph Maulad; SPO2 Marlon Patulot; SPO1 Dexter Descallar; PO3 Samuel Buban; PO2 Florencio Cariño; and, PO2 Victor Dubal.

The awardees are assigned at the municipal police station of Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte.

Ecaldre said the exemplary performance and invaluable service the awardees rendered led to the arrest of Alberto Garces alias Al, a known drug personality in Siocon town.

Ecaldre said Garces was arrested in a recent police operation in Barangay J.P. Brillantes, Siocon municipality.

He said the arresting team confiscated from the possession of Garces, at the time of his arrest, a calibre .22 handgun, an improvised shotgun locally known as shotgun, and five heat-seal plastic sachets of methamphetamine hydrochloride locally known as shabu.

He said the awardees “have demonstrated the kind of dedication and commitment to public service and earned immeasurable honor and respect not only for themselves by also for the entire PNP organization as well, worthy of praise and emulation.”

DSWD bares Pantawid Exemplary Child and Huwarang Pamilya winners in Region 9

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

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 28 (PNA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) announced that a teenager from Dipolog City and the family of a seaweed farmer of Pagadian City won this year’s Pantawid Exemplary Child and Huwarang Pamilya competitions here in Region 9.

Consejo Usman, DSWD assistant regional director for operations, told the Philippines News Agency that the winner for the Pantawid Exemplary Child was Reynald Arias Baguio, 13, a Grade 7 pupil of Alberto Qubay Memorial Agro-Tech Science High School in Dipolog City.

Baguio, a resident of Olingan, Dipolog City, is the child representative in the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children and of the Barangay Investment and Development Plan for Children.

Baguio’s ambition is to become a scientist and an inventor in the future.

“Para sa kapwa kong kabataan, mag-aral kayo ng mabuti upang makamit ninyo ang inyong mga pangarap. Kung may talento kayo, paghusayan niyo upang maipakita niyo ito sa lahat,” he reminded the youths.

The other winners of the Pantawid Exemplary Child were Meriam Jadji of this city, first runner-up; Joene Jane Deniega of Zamboanga del Sur, second runner-up; and, Medjel Pagayon of Zamboanga Sibugay, third runner-up.

Usman said the winner in the Pantawid Huwarang Pamilya was the family of Roberto Libre, a seaweed farmer. They are from Barangay Santiago, Pagadian City.

Libre’s wife, Clarisa, is a saleslady at an optical shop. They have five children namely: Denmar, Certified Public Accountant; Chyn, teacher; and, Denver and Roberto Jr., students.

The Libre family managed to send their children to school despite the hardships in life. They even experienced sleeping on the sidewalks when their house was burned down.

“Pagkakaisa sa pamilya, tiwala sa diyos, at lalong lalo na magandang relasyon sa bawat isa ang strongest weapon namin. Despite sa aming hardship na dinanas sa buhay bumangon kami at tulong-tulong sa pagharap sa bawat hamon ng buhay,” Chyn said.

She reminded the other families that poverty is not a hindrance in pursuing ones goal or ambition in life and to stay united as one family.

Usman said the other Pantawid Huwarang Pamilya winners were as follows: Ponce family of Zamboanga del Norte, first runner-up; second place Tampipi family of Zamboanga Sibugay, second runner-up; and, Menzuais family of this city, third runner-up.

Usman said that all of the winners received plaque of recognition and cash prizes. The awarding of winners was held on Wednesday evening at a local shopping mall.

She said that Baguio and the Libre family would represent Region 9 in the national competition in Manila, the schedule of which is to be announced later.

“We recognized how they exemplified in their life as a family. For the child, we recognized the talent you shown us as young as you are, you can go a long way,” Usman said.

93 EWDs established in ZamPen high risk prone areas

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

DIPOLOG CITY, July 27 (PIA)--- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has established 93 units of early warning devices in the identified high risk prone areas in Zamboanga Peninsula region.

This was revealed by DOST 9 focal person for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, Ms. Thelma San Diego during the forum at Top Plaza Hotel, conducted on the second day of the Regional Science and Technology Week celebration.

San Diego said the installed EWDs include Automated Weather Station (AWS), Automated Rain Gauge (ARG), and Water Level Monitoring System (WLMS).

An early warning device is designed to prevent loss of lives and lessen damage to properties in certain areas during occurrence of heavy rains that may result to flooding.

These instruments have the capability to send warning to the people residing in low-lying areas 6 hours before the arrival of the impending big flood that may hit them to prepare themselves for evacuation to elevated areas.

Of the installed EWDS, 29 of them are in the rivers of different municipalities in Zamboanga del Norte which were known to be high-risk flood-prone areas.

Some 24 other EWDs were installed in Zamboanga del Sur; 14 in Zamboanga Sibugay; 2 in Zamboanga City and 4 in Isabela City, Basilan.

The forum, held in line with the 3-day National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) celebration(July 25-27)aims to provide the LGUs with new innovations in technology like early warning devices to enhance their capabilities to respond during emergency situations.

It was participated in by more or less 200 local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers from the different local government units in region 9.

This year’s NSTW celebration carries the theme, “Juan Science, One Nation.”

DTI-ZN presents Bagwis Seal of Excellence Award to six establishments

By Atty. Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)- Zamboanga del Norte has presented the Bagwis Seal of Excellence Award to six establishments in the province during the Provincial Micro Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (MSME) Conference on July 21, 2016 at the 2nd Floor, Commercial Complex 1, Dipolog Boulevard.

The Bagwis Award is given to outstanding business establishments that uphold the rights of consumers and foster the highest level of ethical business practices through “self-regulatory mechanisms” so as to achieve a fair and honest marketplace.

The six awardees were Prince Hypermart, J & C Lucky 99 Store, Home Mart Enterprises, Solidmark, Inc., Des Appliance Plaza, Inc. and Octagon Computer Superstore.

They were acknowledged for operating a clean and orderly workplace, excellent customer relations, having good employee-employer relationship and for their strict adherence to fair trade laws.

Accordingly, with the seal being displayed inside the stores or shops, consumers are guided in choosing the establishments that offer quality products and efficient services at reasonable prices and protected from unlawful trade practices.

Meanwhile, during the said conference, Siayan Mayor Flora L. Villarosa emphasized that in order to reach the peak of success, one must work hard for it.

Moreover, she stressed that the employees contributed a lot to the success of the business. “I told my employees that before going to office, they should at least say ‘good morning’ to themselves and smile to everyone in order to start the day right,” she said.

There were more than 500 participants during the conference. Among them were representatives from local government units, business establishments, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), government agencies, members of the academe and media. (ALT/MAA/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)

Neophyte foe for Barriga

By Calvin D. Cordova

Mark Anthony Barriga’s debut in professional boxing will be against a fellow neophyte.

Barriga will be fighting Melvin Manangquil in a duel that will add spice to the second installment of Omega Pro Sports International’s (OPSI) ‘Who’s Next?’ Pro Boxing Series scheduled on July 30 at Robinsons Galleria Cebu Atrium.

Manangquil, a native of Zamboanga del Norte, has only four fights under his belt with one win, one loss and two draws.

Manangquil started his career in Nov. 29 last year but suffered a unanimous decision loss to James Golez.

The 18-year-old Manangquil settled for a draw in his next fight against debuting John Michael Zulueta before finally earning his first win last April 29 after he knocked out Rocky Campana.

Barriga is gunning for an auspicious professional debut after bringing honors to the country as an Olympian.

The 23-year-old Barriga from Panabo, Davao del Norte was a gold medalist in the 2013 SEA Games in Nepyidaw, Myanmar and came home with a bronze medal from the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea.

The upcoming fight card will be headlined by the unbeaten Jhack Tepora, who will take on Cebuano Bryan Capangpangan.

Another prized stalwart of the Omega Boxing Gym Kenny Demecillo will be seeing action to defend his WBF Asia Bantamweight title against Rambo Lagos.

PIA-9 tapped to train DAR-9 info officers on news, feature writing

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA-9)

PIÑAN, Zamboanga del Norte (PIA) – As the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-9 embarks on promoting its programs and services to the public, it sought the help of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 to train its regional and provincial information officers on basic news and feature writing.

Twenty participants from DAR-9 regional office and provincial offices of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay as well as those from Land Tenure Improvement Division, Project Beneficiaries Division and Legal and Adjudication Board turned up to participate in a three-day writing workshop held at Manuel’s Place in this town starting July 20-22.

In his message during the opening program, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Mohammad Dassan J. Adju of DAR-Zamboanga del Norte emphasized the importance of accurate and timely dissemination of information to the public to promote the agency’s programs and services.

Adju disclosed that he is also actively involved in disseminating bits of information about the different programs pursued by his office, as he is a regular guest of the “Kapihan sa Dipolog” radio program, which is aired over dxDR every Sunday morning.

On the other hand, Ma. Socorro Reambonanza, DAR-9 regional information officer-designate, told the PIA that after the implementation of the government’s rationalization plan, DAR-9 has no more information officer items.

“All our information officers now are all designated and the information work is only an addition to their regular workload, hence, this training,” she explained.

Aside from news and feature writing, the participants were also taught the proper ways of conducting an interview.

Dapitan City police strengthen ‘Kinabayo Festival’ security

(PNA), PGL/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION

DAPITAN CITY, Zamboanga del Norte, July 23 (PNA) -- The local police has raised the alert level to ensure the peaceful and orderly celebration of the 'Kinabayo Festival' that is set to culminate on Monday.

The local government in partnership with the religious group and civic organizations has lined up several activities marking this year’s festival.

Chief Inspector Jonathan Yabo, local police chief, told the Philippines News Agency that policemen will be deployed in all the venues of the remaining three days’ activities.

The activities include the crowd-drawer Search for Miss Dapitan City 2016 on Saturday, July 23. It will be held at the Gloria de Dapitan Theme Park.

There will be also street dancing competition on Monday, the culmination day of the festival.

Yabo said his personnel were augmented by police from the Provincial Public Safety Company (PPSC) to ensure the peaceful celebration of the Kinabayo festival.

He said that closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been installed in strategic places while communication equipment were issued to the barangays for faster response to emergency cases that may arise.

He urged the public to cooperate with them since the security measures in place are for their protection.

He advised the public to refrain from bringing valuable jewelries in watching the different festival activities.

He also urged the public to immediately report to them any presence of people acting suspiciously in their community.

NSDD 2016 benefited more than 500,000 school children in Region 9

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

DIPOLOG CITY, July 22 (PIA)---A total of 512,130 or 81.28% of school children in Region 9 have benefited from the National School Deworming Day conducted by the Department of Health (DOH) on January 27 this year.

This was disclosed by Ms. Maria Raiza C. Anino of DOH-9 during the media forum held at Mibang Hotel, this city recently.

According to Anino, 512,130 of the targeted 630,074 Kinder to Grade 6 school children in public schools in the Zamboanga Peninsula were given “anti-bulate” medication during the implementation of the program this year.

Of this number, 133,133 were from Zamboanga del Sur;Pagadian City-26,647; Zamboanga Sibugay-100,410; Zamboanga City-69,058; Isabela City-15,268; Zamboanga del Norte-140,201; Dapitan City-12,286 and Dipolog City -18,127.

The month-long deworming activity, done every January and July aims to improve the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) to 85 percent coverage of target population and decrease soil transmitted helminthiasis cases which causes weakness, decreased appetite, decreased IQ and anemia.

Anino admitted that the observance of the Holy Month of Ramadhan which lasted until the early part of July somewhat affected the implementation of the program, however, according to her, she noted positive development after the celebration.

She likewise cautioned the parents not to over-react on the possible effect of the medicine to the child, as it is just normal.

Anino reminded all concerned to ensure that the deworming is only administered to a child with full stomach. She assured that Albendazole is safe and not expired as alleged. It has been recommended by the World Health Organization due to its widest range of curative activity and proven effective against all kinds of worms. It is safe and easy to administer by a non-health worker.

DOH-9, in its 2015 NSDD Accomplishment Report stated that only 460,418 children or 65.92% of its 698,429 target were treated. Apart from being far from its target, it has also registered an adverse effect report of 6,235 cases.

Anino attributed the high number of adverse effects recorded in Zamboanga del Norte due to lack of information campaign on the conduct of the deworming activity- that it should only be given to a child with full stomach and the abdominal pain is just but a normal reaction.

DSWD: Region 9 has 364,723 poor households in 2015

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

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 21 (PNA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has registered 364,723 poor households in 2015 here in Region 9.

Atty. Araceli Solamillo, DSWD Regional Director, told the Philippines News Agency that it was determined through the Listahanan assessment they conducted in the entire region.

Listahanan, also known as the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR), is an information management system that identifies who and where the poor are nationwide.

Solamillo said the data of the poor households are as follows: Zamboanga del Sur, 165,485; Zamboanga del Norte, 119,493; Zamboanga Sibugay, 68,671; and, Isabela City, 11,074.

She disclosed that they have so far assessed 704,872 households which consist of 3,124,216 individuals.

She said the assessment result showed that 364,723 of the 704,872 were poor households. The 364,723 poor households consist of 1,924,836 individuals.

She added that 59,485 families representing 16.31 percent of the 364,723 poor households live in urban barangays while 305,238 or 83.69 percents stay in rural barangays.

DSWD Undersecretary Florita Villar said the Listahanan is the objective way to determine who must be given social protection program and services of the government. The list is updated every four years.

The DSWD uses the Listahanan database to identify the beneficiaries of its Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries to include social pension.

RPAB holds review on micro-enterprise sub-project proposals

By Mary May A. Abellon (ALT/MAA/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, July 20 (PIA) – The Regional Project Advisory Board (RPAB)-9 of the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) has recently conducted a review on micro-enterprise sub-project proposals at Top Plaza Hotel, this city.

Among the projects presented by the province of Zamboanga del Norte were the Babuyan ni Nanay: A Swine Fattening for Women, Abaca Fiber Trading and Marketing and the Village Level Rubber Processing and Marketing Enterprise.

The recipients of these projects are the cooperatives of Diongan, Macasing, Gunayen and Sayaw Consumers Cooperatives in the municipality of Siayan, the Kasamahan ng mga Magsasaka ng Paraiso (KAMAGPA), Sampinitan and Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries of Marcelo Multi-Purpose Cooperative (ARBEMCO) of Kalawit and the Salug Small Coconut Farmers Cooperative of Salug town.

Meanwhile, the province of Zamboanga del Sur through Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Meriline Locson also presented their project on Seaweeds Production and Marketing before the RPAB.

“The RPAB will approve the project proposals, then endorse it for funding to the Project Support Office (PSO) of DA-Mindanao Cluster,” Remedios Alejado of DA-9 said, when asked by this writer about the role of RPAB.

Accordingly, RPAB was created as one of the institutional innovations for the implementation of the PRDP funded by World Bank.

It is composed of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council (RAFC).

PRDP was designed to create a platform for a more modern, climate-smart and market-oriented agri-fishery sector which will be implemented within six years from 2013 to 2018.

It partners with the local government units and the private sector in providing strategic infrastructure, facilities, technology, and information that will increase incomes, productivity, and competitiveness in rural areas.

ZamboNorte,DipologCity DRRMC lead 2015 KALASAG awardees

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

DIPOLOG CITY (PIA) -- As part of this year’s National Disaster Consciousness Month celebration, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-9, in collaboration with the Department of Interior and Local Government(DILG)-9 gave due recognition to the readiness of different local government units (LGUs) to respond during the occurrence of any disaster.

Duringthe Regional Kalasag Awarding ceremony held at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports Center here on July 14, Zamboanga del Norte LGU was adjudged as Best Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, provincial level category with Zamboanga del Sur as second placer.

Dipolog City was declared as Best Component City DRRMC; Zamboanga City as Best Highly Urbanized City DRRMC; Molave, Zamboanga del Sur as Best 1st to 3rd Class Municipality DRRMC and Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte as Best 4th to 6th Class Municipality DRMMC.

Republic Act 10131 requires all LGUs to establish a DRRM Office and a disaster operationscenter with permanent staff and volunteers.

OCD-9 Regional Director Emelia V. Julhajanextended her congratulations to the winners as she wished them luck in the next level of competition. The regional winners in each category will be the region’s representative to the national level.

Meanwhile, LGUs and schools which participated in the Kalasag Field validation were also given plaques of recognition.

DILG-9 Assistant Regional Director, Mr. Pedro Cuevas, who represented DILG-9 Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil said the GawadKalasag is the country’s premier award that gives due recognition to the LGUs’ outstanding performance in the field of disaster preparedness, disaster risk reduction and management,disaster prevention and mitigation, including monetary assistance.

This year’s celebration carries the theme, “Kahandaan at TugonsaSakuna, Tungkulin ng Bawat Isa.”(Preparation for Disaster is Everyone’s Business and a Shared Responsibility)

Dapitan City’s ‘Kinabayo Festival’ kicks off

(PNA), BNB/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION

DAPITAN CITY, Zamboanga del Norte, July 18 (PNA) -- The local government through the City Tourism Office has lined up several activities marking the celebration of the Kinabayo Festival.

The highlight of the festival is the feast day of Saint James the Greater, this city’s patron saint, on July 25.

City Tourism Officer Apple Marie Agolong told the Philippines News Agency that the festival kicked off on Saturday with a parade followed by the opening program at 7:00 p.m. at the city plaza.

The 11 lovely candidates for the search for Miss Dapitan City 2016 were presented during the opening program. The coronation night will be on Saturday.

Motorcyclists from Visayas and Mindanao saw action during the Invitational Drag Race Competition on Sunday that attracted huge crowd. It was held at the Dapitan Aquamarine Park (DAMPA).

The Kinabayo Festival activities are as follows: Hip Hop Dance workshop, Sunday to Monday; Hip Hop Dance competition, Tuesday; cooking competition dubbed as Taste of Dapitan, Tuesday; Kinabayo songwriting contest, Wednesday; sports competitions (street basketball, football, beach volleyball, tennis, and shooting), Saturday to Sunday.

Agolong said the Taste of Dapitan cooking competition will showcase the different local delicacies.

Agolong said there will be also horse on parade and racing, street dancing, drum and lyre and drum and bugle competition as well as “Ratsada sa Banda 2016” in the evening of July 25.

The Kinabayo Festival is a three-in-one affair combining religious, cultural and sports events marking the celebration of its Patron Saint James or Señor Santiago for the locals. (PNA) BNB/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION

3 injured in an interment gun attack

By Bong Garcia

THREE people were injured in a gun attack while the victims were attending the interment of a relative in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, the police reported.

The Zamboanga del Norte Police Office identified the victim as Jovanie Agacita, 26, Nova Balladares, 15 and, Arnold Ledenio, 39.

Police said the incident took place around 12:30 p.m. Thursday, July 14, at Sitio Lagpan in the village of Siare, Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte.

It added that the main target of the gun attack by three unidentified persons armed with handguns was Agacita.

Investigation showed Agacita was attending the interment of Nemesion Buot when the suspects surfaced and repeatedly shot him.

The police said Balladares and Ledenio were injured since they were hit by stray bullets.

Investigation is ongoing in a bid to establish the suspects’ identities.

The victims were hospitalized.

DOST uses web portal to widen market reach of S & T week products

(PNA), LDV/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 14 (PNA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) announced that the products on display at its annual Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) are available on the OneStore web portal.

The RSTW is scheduled to be held next week from July 25 to 27 at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports Center in Dipolog City.

The three-day event will showcase DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) leading technologies and programs.

The OneSTore web portal primarily aims to strengthen the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) assisted by the DOST's SETUP by widening the scope of their target markets and making their products more accessible to the public.

“On the off chance that you won't be in Dipolog City for the three-day event, you'll still be able to place an order or two for merchandise that have left their mark on you,” DOST Regional Director Brenda Nazareth-Manzano said of the web portal.

From mangoes to machinery, Manzano said the OneSTore e-commerce web portal provides customers with an effortless shopping experience and gives retailers simple and direct access to one of the largest customer bases in the Philippines.

She said for those who travel to Dipolog City, they can drop by the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports Center and experience first-hand what Onestore.ph and the RSTW has to offer.

She said the RSTW is open to all interested science and technology enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, students, researchers, inventors, innovators, professionals and the general public.

DOST sets disaster risk reduction management forum in Dipolog City

(PNA), FFC/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 15 (PNA) -– The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is holding a one-day forum on Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) in Dipolog City, the capital of Zamboanga del Norte province.

DOST Regional Director Brenda Nazareth-Manzano said the DRRM forum, which is set to be held on July 26, forms part of the activities of the three-day Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW).

The RSTW is scheduled to be held from July 25 to 27 at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports Center in Dipolog City.

Manzano said the forum will include activities and discussions on weather outlook, the use of Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technologies and Geographic Information System (GIS) as tools in DRRM, Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) and the Development of Early Warning Systems (DEWS) in the region.

Manzano said invited to attend the forum are key officials of the different local government units (LGUs) in the region and other concerned stakeholders.

Aside from Manzano, the resource speakers of the DRRM form include Maribel Enriquez, chief meteorological officer of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)-Zamboang station; Dr. Mario Rodriguez, project leader for Phil-LiDAR; Atty. Alanixon Selda, administration and DRRM officer for LGUs; and, Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay, executive director of Project NOAH.

The RSTW will showcase DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) leading technologies and programs.

COMELEC sets Barangay, SK elections on October 31

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

DIPOLOG CITY (PIA)---The Sangguniang Kabataan and Barangay Elections will be simultaneously conducted on October 31 this year, according to the top provincial official of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in Zamboang del Norte.

Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Jossil Macute and DILG Provincial Director, Ms. Lerma Campaner were the guests during the ”Kapihan sa Dipolog” forum held at Sunburst Fried Chicken, Camila Hotel I on Sunday.

However, according to Macute,there are changes on the age of the members of the Sangguniang Kabataan, now called Katipunan ng Kabataan.

Macutesaid the new law adjusts the age limit of SK officials from 15-17 to 18-24 years old to make them legally capable of entering into contracts and be held accountable and liable for their actions.

Ms. Campaner said under Republic Act 10742 otherwise known as the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015, which was signed by then President Benigno Aquino III on January 15, 2015, the Katipunan ng Kabataan will now be composed of youth 15 to 30 years of age.

However only KK members aging 18 to 24 years are qualified to run and seek any position in the Katipunan ng Kabataan Council which will be composed of a KK Chairman and 7 Kagawads.

Section 10 of RA 10742 provides an anti-dynasty provision, making it the first law to comply with Article II, Section 26 of the Constitution. As part of the qualifications of elective SK officials, it requires that they must not be related within the second degree of affinity or consanguinity to any incumbent national, regional, or local elected official at the city, municipality, or barangay level.

Campaner also reminded on the qualification of the SK officials: that he/she shall be 18-24 years old and a resident of at least 6 months in the barangay where he/she intends to run; able to read and write and never been convicted with final judgement on any case, involving moral turpitude.

Meanwhile, Macutesaid that COMELEC will conduct registration of SK voters, especially those aging 15-17 from July 15 to 31. They will also accept applications for change of status, correction of entry, and re-activation of voter’s registration record but not application for transfer of voting precinct, within or outside the city.

The conduct of the Sangguniang Kabataan and Barangay elections will be done manually.

DOST sets Regional Science and Technology Week in Dipolog City

(PNA), LAP/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PNA) -– The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) will showcase its leading technologies and programs in the agency's annual Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) here in the region.

Brenda Nazareth-Manzano, DOST regional director, said the activity will be held from July 25 to 27 at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports Center in Dipolog City.

Manzano said that the SETUP will also conduct technical consultancies on packaging and labeling, food innovation and safety, as well as a forum on SETUP itself aside from their current programs and Science and Technology (S&T) innovations.

Manzano said this flagship program of DOST focuses on assisting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in six priority sectors namely: food processing, metals and engineering, furniture, marine and aquatic resources, agriculture/horticulture, and gifts and holiday decors.

She said the program assists MSMEs to improve its productivity through different technological interventions such as acquisition of innovative and cost-effective technology, product development, process improvement, human resource development, and consultancy services, among others.

She said the event is open to all interested individuals that include S&T enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, students, researchers, inventors, innovators, professionals and the general public.

Dipolog celebrates Nutrition Month

By Mary May A. Abellon (ALT/MAA/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY (PIA) – The city government here through its Nutrition Action Center (NAC), together with the 21 barangays has lined up several activities in celebration of Nutrition Month.

The National Nutrition Council (NNC) announced that this year’s theme is, “First 1000 Days ni baby, pahalagahan para sa malusog na kinabukasan.”

Accordingly, it aims to create awareness on the importance of proper infant and young child feeding practices, particularly exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and giving appropriate complementary food thereafter while continuing breastfeeding.

City Nutrition Action Officer (CNAO) Charmie A. Yu and other city officials visited the barangays and attended the activities therein.

On July 5, the barangays of Sta. Isabel and Sta. Filomena conducted nutri-quiz, parlor games and mass feeding to children while barangays Barra and Galas conducted the same activities on July 7 participated by children and their mothers.

Barangay Turno conducted contests on “Healthiest baby” and “Nutri-buntis” on Friday, July 8.

Mayor Darel Dexter T. Uy stressed that the city government of Dipolog always gives priority to the welfare and well-being of children believing that they are the future pillars of society.

Meanwhile, the NNC also announced the launching of the Early Childhood Care and Development Intervention Package (ECCD-IP) for the First 1000 Days program.

It addresses the call for a "holistic approach to the provision of health, nutrition, education, and social welfare services to children 0-8 years of age," but with an even more refined focus on the first 1000 days of life.

This celebration was mandated by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 491, s. of 1974 for the purpose of creating greater awareness among the people on the importance of nutrition.

'Longest painting' by 6,000 artists finds home in Dapitan

By Gualberto Laput (Rappler.com)

7,344 meters long, 'Fishes of the Ocean' could have held the world record as the longest continuous painting on canvas, but it did not receive help from government

ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, Philippines – After a decade of being homeless, the 7-kilometer-long painting on canvass created by over 6,000 young artists across the country has finally found its new home in Dapitan City here.

Scenographer Rolando de Leon, initiator and caretaker of the 7,344-meter-long painting named "Fishes of the Ocean," said the work was the longest painting on continuous canvass in 2010. Shortage on financial support for the project, however, caused it to lose the title to Mexico.

"At that time Mexico's long painting was only 6,001.5 meters long. We could have been declared the longest, but we could not raise the money to bring Guinness World Records adjudicators here in the Philippines. Our donors already spent much on canvass and oil. Even the government was not able to help us," De Leon said.

"Fishes of the Ocean," which depicts peace and the protection of the environment, was conceptualized in 2005. Its first 100 meters were made in 2006 at SM Fairview until it reached the current length.

Nevertheless, De Leon said Joanne Tawfilis, Commissioner of the National Commission to UNESCO, acknowledged "Fishes of the Ocean" as the world's longest painting.

Most of the time in the past decade, "Fishes of the Ocean" was stored at an apartment, where De Leon was also renting in Fairview, Quezon City. He was even threatened with eviction as unpaid rent had accumulated.

Officials of Dapitan, who were engrossed with promoting tourism, heard of the plight of the "Fishes of the Ocean," and offered to adopt the painting.

"For the meantime, the painting will be displayed at the city's cultural and sports center starting July 23, until we can find or build a permanent place for the 'Fishes of the Ocean,'" said Apple Marie Agolong, Dapitan's tourism officer.

De Leon expressed happiness that "Fishes of the Ocean" has "finally found its home for good – it's the entire community of Dapitan, the place where our national hero (Jose P. Rizal) spent 4 years in exile."

He said he is talking to city officials to organize painting workshops in Mindanao, with the aim of adding at least 4 more kilometers to the "Fishes of the Ocean." That way, it can vie agian for the Guinness World Records in 2017.

As of December 12, 2015, Abu Dhabi holds the record of longest painting at 10,850 meters.

"We could even vie for being the longest living painting because 'Fishes of the Ocean' is still intact," De Leon added. "I learned that other record holders already lost their works, they were cut into pieces for souvenir. Theirs is only for the record."

De Leon said he has found peace in Dapitan and, like the painting he has taken care of, intends to make the city his permanent home.

Duterte appoints Zamboanga del Norte native and retired general as Defense undersecretary

(PNA), LAP/TPGJR/DENNIS C. BAGUIO

DIPOLOG CITY, Zamboanga del Norte (PNA) – President-elect Rodrigo Duterte has appointed a native of this province to serve as an undersecretary in the Defense department.

Appointed as Defense Undersecretary for Operations effective June 30, 2016 is retired Brigadier General Cesar Yano, a native of the nearby town of Sindangan, this province.

Yano, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1980, has served in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for 34 years.

He retired as the country’s Defense and Military Attaché to the United States.

It was during Yano’s stint as Defense Attaché in Washington that the Philippines acquired two Hamilton-class high endurance cutters, and a C-130 “Hercules” cargo plane for the AFP. The Philippine military also received $ 2.8 million worth of new weapons and various supplies.

The Hamiltan-class cutters were later christened as BRP-Gregorio del Pilar and BRP-Ramon Alcaraz.

Yano completed his elementary education in Sindangan Pilot Demonstration School and secondary education in Saint Joseph College also in Sindangan.

Both of his parents were public schools teachers in his hometown.

He studied engineering for three years in Cebu prior to his admission into the PMA, the country’s prestigious military school.

He is the third in a brood of five. Two of his younger brothers are elected councilors in the municipality of Sindangan.

In 2010, he became the second son of Sindangan to earn the much coveted rank of general in the AFP as he followed the footstep of his elder brother, retired General Alexander Yano, the 38th AFP chief-of-staff.

The elder Yano, who also studied engineering, has served as the Philippine ambassador to Brunei Darrussalam after his retirement as the AFP chief-of-staff.

Yano, as defense undersecretary for operations, is to advise and assist the national defense secretary in formulating and implementing policies pertaining to matters on operations.

One of the major duties of Yano includes supervision over the AFP, where he held various positions during his stint in the military service.

He is a recipient of the Philippine Legion of Honor and various awards and commendations when he served in the AFP.

The elder Yano is happy to note that the incoming administration is tapping the service of his younger brother.

Fire razes Zamboanga town public market

By A. Perez Rimando

SINDANGAN, Zamboanga del Norte—The public market of this first-class coastal municipality was razed by fire Monday evening, with damage amounting to some P30 million worth of properties and assorted goods and materials.

Municipal Bureau of Fire Protection Chief Officer 3 Jesus F. Am-is said the fire, allegedly caused by faulty electric wiring, razed more than 100 stalls and stores of dry and wet goods such as rice, meat, fish, fruits and vegetables as well as bakeries, tailoring shops, household appliances, dress shops, pharmacies, and the like.

Am-is said Sindangan’s three available fire trucks were later assisted one hour later by fire trucks from the neighboring towns of Salug, Liloy, Manukan, Siayan and Roxas, and private companies and civilian volunteers.

He claimed the local fire station was alerted by public market security guards Paterno Cenas and Rodulfo Pagulayan when the market fire started.

Am-is declared fire out after four hours, adding nobody was hurt in the incident.

Drug dealer slain in shootout in Dipolog City

(PNA), BNB/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PNA) -- A suspected drug dealer was killed in a shootout with lawmen the province of Zamboanga del Norte, a police official disclosed Monday (July 4).

Senior Supt. Edwin Wagan, Zamboanga del Norte police director, identified the slain drug dealer as Genesis Jabonila, 21, alias Bunso, a resident of Barangay Sta. Filomena, Dipolog City, the capital of the province.

Wagan said the shootout took place around 9:30 p.m. Sunday at the Sunset Boulevard, Barangay Sta. Cruz, Dipolog City.

Prior to the shootout, Wagan said Jabonilla agreed to sell a heat-sealed plastic sachet of methamphetamine hydrochloride locally known as shabu to an undercover agent of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and a confidential informant.

He said the suspect, upon sensing the presence of lawmen, changed the venue of transaction from a gasoline station in Barangay Sta. Cruz, Dapitan City to a restaurant and bar at Sunset Boulevard, Barangay Sta. Cruz, Dipolog City.

He said the suspect suddenly ran towards the cottage of Jalapadan Beach during their transaction at the Sunset Boulevard upon sensing the persons he was dealing with are government agents.

He added that Jabonilla drew a handgun and open fire but missed his target prompting the undercover PDEA agent to return fire hitting the suspect.

He said Jabonilla was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

He said the PDEA agent and policemen recovered from the crime scene a caliber .45 pistol with a magazine of ammunition, undetermined volume of alleged “shabu,” and cash believed to be proceeds of the suspect in the trade of prohibited drugs.

DOH targets to deworm 969,000 public school children in Region 9

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

ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 7 (PNA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) is targeting to deworm 969,000 public school children here in Region 9 this month, which is designated as the National School Deworming Month.

Dr. Sitti Nurussamsi Amilassan, DOH deworming program manager, told the Philippines News Agency that 674,000 of the 969,000 school children to be dewormed are enrolled in grade school level from kindergarten to Grade 6.

Amilassan said the remaining 295,000 public school children to be dewormed are enrolled in high level from Grade 7 to Grade 12.

The 674,000 grade school children are from the following areas: Zamboanga del Norte, 163,000; Zamboanga del Sur, 150,000; Zamboanga Sibugay, 122,000; Dapitan City, 15,000; Dipolog City, 21,000; Pagadian City, 33,000; Isabela City, 22,000; and, Zamboanga City, 148,000.

The 295,000 high school students are enrolled in the following provinces and cities: Zamboanga del Norte, 45,000; Zamboanga del Sur, 42,000; Zamboanga Sibugay, 35,000; Dapitan City, 20,000; Dipolog City, 35,000; Pagadian City, 28,000; Isabela City, 25,000; and, Zamboanga City, 65,000.

Amilassan said there are changes in the conduct of the deworming aimed to effectively deworm the identified school children.

Amilasan said the deworming of school children will no longer be conducted simultaneously in one day like in previous years.

She said they have included the high school students since study showed many of them have anemia and with low school performance.

She said DOH and Department of Education (DepEd) officials have met and agreed that the implementation of the deworming of school children will be done under close medical supervision.

She said they have to ensure that the school children have eaten breakfast before they will be given Albendazole 400 milligrams chewable tablet.

She said they are targeting to attain an 85 percent deworming coverage this month.

The DOH was able to deworm 460,418 school children during the National School Deworming Day in July 2015 and 512,130 in January 2016 here in Region 9.

4 Zambo Norte town officials, 3 others arrested for graft and corruption

(PNA), FFC/TPGJR/DENNIS C. BAGUIO

DIPOLOG CITY, Zamboanga del Norte, July 5 (PNA) -– The police have arrested four elected officials of the nearby town of Sibuco and three others for anti-graft and corrupt practices act.

The police reported that arrested on orders of the Sandiganbayan’s 7th Division were the following: Sibuco Mayor Nurbederie Edding; Councilor Norbryan Edding, Councilor Nasser Mahamod; Councilor Absar Caril; former Councilors Malik Tutuan and Jaapal Dodong; and former Liga ng mga Barangay president Abbas Samson, who served as an ex-officio councilor.

The accused were arrested around 10 a.m. at the residence of Mayor Edding in Barangay Sta. Maria, Zamboanga City by a tracker team of policemen from Sibuco Municipal Police Station led by Insp. Joel Adajar.

The police said the four elected and three former officials are facing charges for violation of Section 3 (a) of Republic Act 3019 otherwise known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

The police said the case against the accused stemmed from the complaint of another elected official in the nearby municipality of Sibuco.

The police said the accused were granted temporary liberty after each of them paid PHP30,000 bail before a court in Zamboanga City.

Dapitan City sets ‘Kinabayo’ festival song writing competition

(PNA), BNB/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION

DAPITAN CITY, Zamboanga del Norte, July 4 (PNA) -- The city government is inviting musicians, singers and composers to join the song writing competition that will be held as part of this year’s “Kinabayo” Festival.

City Tourism Officer Apple Marie Agolong said the competition, which is anchored on the theme: “Awit sa Pista sa Dapitan Kinabayo Festival,” will be held on July 20.

The Kinabayo Festival has been celebrated by Dapitan City folk centering on the feast day of Saint James the Greater, Dapitan City’s patron saint, in July 25.

Agolong said the deadline for submission of entries is on July 10.

The entries should be submitted in Compact Disk (CD) or Flash Disk recorded to her office or look for Alma Calasang with contact number +639099495329.

Agolong said only 10 entries will be chosen to participate in the final round of the competition.

The winner will receive PHP10,000 while the performer PHP5,000 cash prize.

The winning entry will serve as the official theme song of this year’s week-long Kinabayo Festival from July 16 to 25.

Zambo Norte elected officials take oath of office

(ALT/MAA/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY (PIA) – All re-elected and newly elected officials of Zamboanga del Norte from governor, vice-governor, board members, district representatives, mayors and vice-mayors including the city and municipal councilors took their oath of office on June 30, 2016 at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports Center, this city.

The five Regional Trial Court (RTC) and two Municipal Trial Court in Cities (MTCC) judges were present during the said event to officiate the oath-taking ceremony.

“Magserbisyo kita sa katawhan nga kinasingkasing ug tinud-anay,” (We will serve the people wholeheartedly and truthfully) Governor Roberto Y. Uy said during his inaugural speech.

Governor Uy is now serving the people of Zamboanga del Norte in his second term focusing on health and welfare of the people with more infrastructure projects on his fresh mandate.

He added that as public servants, they have to look towards the welfare of the people and put the needs of others first before their own.

“We deny ourselves so that we can give our time, talents and treasure to our constituents,” he stressed.

He encouraged the people in the province to be wise and make the most of every opportunity.

“Let our conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that we may know how to answer everyone,” he concluded.

Boxing: Jonathan Taconing aims to be 4th Filipino champion

By Ryan Songalia (Rappler.com)

Zamboanga del Norte native Jonathan Taconing gets his second shot at a world title when he faces WBC junior flyweight titleholder Ganigan Lopez

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines could have a 4th world boxing champion this weekend as Jonathan Taconing faces off with WBC strawweight titleholder Ganigan Lopez on Saturday, July 2 (Sunday morning Manila time) at the Arena Coliseo in Mexico City, Mexico.

Speaking with Rappler from Mexico City, Liza Elorde, wife of Taconing's manager Johnny Elorde, said the 29-year-old southpaw from Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines is in good spirits, weighing just a pound over the 108-pound limit following Wednesday's media workout.

"That’s why he's still eating. Because if he trains, he's 108," said Elorde.

Taconing (22-2-1, 18 knockouts) will meet Lopez (27-6, 17 KOs) again for Thursday's final press conference, then once more at Friday's weigh-in before fight night on Saturday.

With a win, Taconing would join WBO junior featherweight titleholder Nonito Donaire Jr, WBO junior flyweight titleholder Donnie Nietes, and IBF flyweight titleholder Johnriel Casimero among current boxing champions from the Philippines.

Taconing, 29, spent the first two days adjusting to the time difference and elevation in Mexico City, which sits 2,250 meters above sea level. Elorde noted that Taconing fought at a higher elevation last year when he stopped former champion Ramon Garcia in 10 rounds in Metepec, Mexico.

Taconing has won 9 straight fights since his last defeat, a controversial 5-round technical decision loss to Kompayak Porpramook in Thailand in 2012 for the same title.

Lopez, 34, won the title this past March with a majority decision over Yu Kimura in Japan after losing a decision to then-titleholder Pedro Guevara a year earlier.

In contrast with Taconing's calm, Elorde said she saw concern from Lopez during a face-to-face meeting at the World Boxing Council.

"I don't want to be biased but I can see in the eyes of Ganigan that he's a little bit nervous. In his interviews he was saying this is his toughest fight against Taconing," she added.

Elorde will reach out to the Philippine ambassador on Thursday about bringing Filipino fans to the 16,500-seat arena to support Taconing on fight night.

Part of Taconing's relaxation before the fight has been praying at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a famous Roman Catholic church in the Mexican capital.

Taconing's entourage in Mexico includes Johnny and Liza Elorde, plus two of their sons, Juan Miguel "Mig" Elorde and Juan Martin "Bai" Elorde, who both have over 20 pro fights to their credit, and trainer Eddie Ballaran, a former pro during the 1970s and 80s.

The fight will not be televised in the Philippines.

Dipolog turns 103, inter-school quiz bee held

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)

DIPOLOG CITY (PIA) – Holding a quiz bee is one way of making the young aware of the goings-on as well as the history of their place.

In an effort to drum up awareness among the students on the city’s history, “places of interest,” achievements and current events, the city government conducted an inter-school quiz bee for elementary and high school students on Monday and Tuesday, respectively.

The quiz bee, which was one of the highlights of Dipolog’s 103rd founding anniversary celebration, has covered the city’s significant history and events, which contribute to its socio-economic-political growth and development.

Eleven elementary pupils from private and public schools in the city turned up to participate in the quiz bee and a certain Jol Rejiv A. Aban of the Dipolog Pilot Demonstration School emerged as champion, followed by Kint Louise Borbano of Miputak East Central School and Anielle H. Masion of Global Springs of Learning Academy, all of this city.

In the secondary level, John Alec N. Cañoneo of Dipolog City National High School bested other contestants by obtaining a perfect score. Second place went to Anne Marie Abegail C. Nalugon of St. Mary’s Academy and Rhod Vincent J. Tayong of Sicayab National High School got third.

Dipolog became a municipality on July 1, 1913 and a city in 1970. It serves as the provincial capital of Zamboanga del Norte.

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