Zamboanga del Norte News June 2014

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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

ADB, DAR conduct midterm review of ARCP II projects in Dipolog

By Mary Mae Abellon (FPG/MAA/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 30 (PIA) –Mission Leader MarziaMongiorgi-Lorenzo and four others of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) together with Regional Director Julita Ragandang of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-9 came here on Wednesday, June 23, for the midterm review of the Agrarian Reform Communities Project (ARCP) II in the city.

“ADB’s thrust with the Philippine government is to fund for rural employment to job creation at the rural levels through approach of value chain,” Mission Leader Mongiorgi-Lorenzo said.

“We don’t want one irrigation program here, one school there and some basic infrastructures. We want to see that starting from the market the farmers’ association can work together and be part of value chain and create value along such chain to becomebetter off.”

During the event, ADB and DAR proposed to Dipolog-Polanco Irrigators’ Association, whose members are mostly Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs), to brand its rice grain and market it as “DPIA Organic Rice” to increase its income.

Dipolog Mayor Evelyn T. Uy also disclosed that the city government would continue supporting the farmers and irrigators. “You will no longer contract for a loan to construct an irrigation system because the government is here to help,” the lady mayor stressed.

On the other hand, Zamboanga del Norte Governor Roberto Y. Uy hoped that the meeting and review with the stakeholders of ARCP II in the province would bring about concrete result leading tosustainable development among farmer-beneficiaries.

“I am thankful to ADB and DAR for being our partners in the delivery of services to our constituents,” Governor Uy said.

The ADB mission officials explained that the lessons learned from ARCP II would serve as bases for delivering a new program.

ADB emphasized that “ARCP II is not just pro-poor but it also seeks to enhance the welfare of the people.”

ADB National Project Coordinator Hernan Ongkiko said the Dipolog Communal Irrigation System (CIS), which covers 700 hectares, is the biggest irrigation project of DAR and ADB in the country.

“There’s already big efforts made by DAR and the LGUs of Zamboanga del Norte and Dipolog;it is in your hands (referring to farmers) to continue these efforts. There may be phase three of the project,” Ongkiko concluded.

Other ADB MTR mission members are Principal Natural and Agriculture Specialist Sununtar Setboonsarng, Project Analyst Editha T. Tayo-Castro and ADB Consultant Lindsay Saunders.

Citing threat to Davao City, Australia reissues travel advisory over parts of Mindanao

By Joel Locsin/JDS (GMA News)

Australia on Sunday advised its nationals on the heightened security in Davao City, while advising them against traveling to parts of Mindanao because of a "very high threat" of terrorist attack, kidnapping, violence and crime.

In an update to its travel advice on the Philippines, Australia said authorities in Davao City and other parts of Mindanao are on heightened alert due to an "unspecified security threat."

"We continue to strongly advise you not to travel to central and western Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula and Sulu Archipelago, due to the very high threat of terrorist attack, kidnapping, violent crime and violent clashes between armed groups. We continue to advise you to reconsider your need to travel to eastern Mindanao. We continue to advise you to exercise a high degree of caution overall in the Philippines," it said.

Over the weekend, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte said President Benigno Aquino III contacted him about a possible threat.

Duterte said he has since alerted the police and military, while Philippine National Police spokesman Chief Superintendent Reuben Theodore Sindac assured the authorities are on top of the situation.

Terror attack

In its updated advice, Australia reiterated that its nationals "exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines because of the high threat of terrorist attack."

"Terrorist attacks, including bombings, are possible anytime, anywhere in the Philippines, including in Manila. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners such as airports, hotels, shopping malls, public transport and places of worship. Attacks could occur in the lead up to and following religious celebrations," it said.

It also warned against a "high threat of kidnapping throughout the Philippines," with the threat "highest in the southern Philippines, including coastal and island tourist resorts and dive sites, including in remote locations in the Sulu Sea and along the Zamboanga Peninsula."

"The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it does not make payments or concessions to kidnappers. The Australian Government considers paying ransoms increases the risk of further kidnappings," it said.

Alert over eastern Mindanao

It particularly advised its nationals to "reconsider your need to travel to eastern Mindanao," including the provinces of Bukidnon, Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

"Australians travelling in these areas should ensure that they have appropriate personal security measures in place, seek professional security advice and take out kidnapping insurance," it said.

Also, it advised them against travel to central and western Mindanao including Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Cotabato City, North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Saranggani, Misamis Occidental, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and the Sulu Archipelago and surrounding waters "due to the very high threat of terrorist attack, kidnapping, violent crime and violent clashes between armed groups."

"If you are in central and western Mindanao, you should leave immediately," it said.

Romblon’s beautiful marbles

By Alexander Villafania

DAPITAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE – Romblon has a renowned marble industry and is in fact the biggest producer of this beautiful mineral.

Romblon’s reputation as a major exporter of marble furniture is matched only by a few countries, such as Italy and Greece.

The exceptional variety of types of marble in Romblon, from the whitish Carrara, the fine grained Pentelic, the Berdelic, and its very own Golden Romblon and Green Onyx, make Romblon a favored source for raw marble to be made into beautiful items.

Marble furniture and display items sold in home depots and galleries in metro cities would most often be those from Romblon.

Depending on the size, design and marble type these items could be priced from as low as P1,000 (table displays such as jars) to as high as P100,000 (long dining tables). In most cases, these items are considered as investment items.

In some rare occasions, marble furniture merchants would ply their trade in different places in the Philippines outside the bustling metropolis. Usually they follow major activities such as festivals where there is high traffic for local and foreign tourists.

These traders are a group of Romblon residents who go around the Philippines with several tons worth of marble furniture and lay them out in any open space.

Marble has the constitution of a rock that makes it last for years and still retains its beauty.

One of the sellers, a man named Rey Pit (yes, that’s his name) , says their marble products are brought in by land on 18-wheeler trucks and took at least two days to travel to Dapitan City, more than 600 kilometers away.

While the transportation of such items is in itself a feat, it is also the way these items are being sold that also seems to be such a surprise. In a world where people use the Internet to buy items, these marble sellers still use the power of word of mouth especially among the places they visit.

A small marble display would cost P200. A dolphin or elephant book end set would be around P900. A four-foot Chinese jar will be around P3,000.

A six-seater all-marble table would be around P20,000. A favorite design, a chess table, complete with all the pieces, would cost around P15,000.

Pit says their trade would continue as long as there are people who desire to have such beautiful and well-designed furniture for their homes

Motorbikes collision injures 4

By Bong Garcia

FOUR people, including two women, were injured in a head-on collision of two motorcycles along the provincial road in Zamboanga del Norte, the police reported Friday.

The Zamboanga del Norte Police Office said the accident happened around 9:15 a.m. Thursday in the village of Poblacion in the municipality of Jose Dalman.

The police identified the victims as Reynaldo Abot, 29; Jovelyn Ganon, 20; Renalyn Ganon, 22; and Jeno Cagbas, 20.

Investigation showed that the two motorcycles, one driven by Abot while the other by Cagbas, were traveling from opposite directions when they collided head-on on a curve portion of the provincial road.

The Ganon sisters were back riders of Abot.

They suffered injuries and were admitted at the hospital for treatment, the police said.

Kidnap gang leader, 1 more dead in Zamboanga del Norte clash

By Roel Pareño (philstar.com)

ZAMBOANGA CITY - - A suspected leader of a kidnapping syndicate and one of his accomplices were killed in a clash with a military intelligence unit Thursday morning in the coastal village of Gutalac town, Zamboanga del Norte.

The slain suspect was identified as Jaojin Salam alias Jaujin Salam, tagged as the second most wanted criminal in Western Mindanao and leader of a kidnapping syndicate operating in Zamboanga del Norte, while his companion remains unidentified.

Senior Inspector Joseph Ortega, spokesman of Police Regional Office 9 (PRO), said the intelligence personnel of the 10th Infantry Battalion and the 9th Intelligence Service Unit (ISU) encountered the group of Salam about 9:30 a.m. Thursday at the coastal area of Gutalac.

Salam and his followers were believed to be escaping as the joint security forces of the police 5th Special Action Battalion (SAB) under the Special Action Force, Philippine Center for Transnational Crime (PCTC), and Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) were serving his warrant of arrest for various crimes, including kidnapping.

The encounter ensued for 20 minutes and left Salam and a follower killed while the rest of his armed companions escaped and eluded arrest.

The troops recovered the remains of the suspects and two M14 rifles in the encounter site.

The military and police have stepped up the pursuit operation against the kidnap syndicates in the region following a standing order from President Benigno Aquino III to neutralize these gangs that are operating not just in the region but also outside the country and spiriting their captives to Sulu.

The intensified security operation has led to the death of 10 Abu Sayyaf militants and wounded 13 others during encounter in Patikul, Sulu on Thursday.

However, the encounter also left a junior officer and seven soldiers dead and 24 others wounded.

Separate pursuing troops and police forces also pressured another kidnapping gang in Basilan, leading to the release of young cosmetics dealer Sabrina Ikbala Voon Wednesday.

Dipolog gears up for 101st anniversary

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY – A number of activities have been lined up by the city government here for the 101st Araw ng Dipolog come July 1 with the theme, “Himsog nga katawhan alang sa himsog nga dakbayan (Healthy people for a healthy city).”

One of these activities is the coco challenge using coconut and its by-products in the games to be played at the Coco Ville, Dipolog City Boulevard on June 27-28. The winners will receive cash prizes.

Under the open category, the games include throwing ping-pong balls into the coconut bowl, coconut tree climbing and coconut husking.

For the inter-office and barangay category, the games include the coconut shot put, coconut bowling, coconut relay, coconut toddy and coconut trunk rolling.

Interested players are invited to register at the City Hall lobby or to contact P’gsalabuk Coco Challenge chair Chandler O. Ruiz at his cellphone number 09185556118.

Moreover, nightly shows and video showing will be done at the city boulevard. “Panagsangka 2014” or the inter-office sports tournament like volleyball, kickball and badminton will also be held with the city employees pitting against each other to win the most coveted prizes.

The 2nd Mayor’s Cup National Sepak Takraw championship will also be conducted at Plaza Magsaysay. On June 26 there will be a tribute to public servants who have shown excellence and selfless service to the public and rendered significant contribution to the development of the community.

Other activities include coco salo-salo, invitational shootfest, boulevard races, executive relay and street party.

On July 1, an anniversary parade and program as well as the P’gsalabuk street dance presentation will be held.

DOH-9 calls for media support to breastfeeding drive

By Mary Mae Abellon (FPG/MAA/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 24 (PIA) – “We are calling on the media to support and help us in our breastfeeding advocacy campaign,” Health Education and Promotion Officer Virgie Galarreta of the Department of Health (DOH)-9 said in a recent media forum held at Camila Hotel 1 this city.

Galarreta of DOH-9 discussed the salient provisions of Republic Act (RA)10028 to the members of the local press, emphasizing the promotion of breastfeeding to all mothers.

“Workplaces in private enterprises and public offices and places shall be adequately provided with the necessary equipment and facilities like the establishment of lactation stations,” Galaretta said.

She added that lactation station should not be located in the toilet.

Under RA 10028, otherwise known as the Expanded Breastfeeding Act of 2009, nursing employees shall be granted break intervals in addition to the regular time-off for meals to breastfeed or express milk not less than a total of 40 minutes for every eight-hour working period which shall be counted as compensable hours worked.

“Before the advent of milk formulas, mothers have no other choice except to breastfeed,” DOH-9 Public Information Officer Tess Dela Cruz stressed.

Dela Cruz said that every family has the right to decide how the baby will be fed but the decision they get is usually based on the information around them like that from the media, their friends, relatives, neighbors and health workers.

“Advertisement greatly affects the decision of parents on how to feed babies,” she added.

Among the disadvantages of artificial feeding are infections, malnutrition, obesity, increased risk of cardiovascular disease in later life, allergy and milk intolerance, constipation, indigestion, increased risk of chronic diseases, lower IQ of children.

Dela Cruz emphasized that “a total of P21.5 billion has been spent each year on the purchase of infant formula, which is an unnecessary expenditure leaving a tremendous socio-economic impact on Filipino families.”

“It’s time that we work together for our children can’t wait any longer. It’s everyone’s responsibility so let’s do our task and let’s act now,” Dela Cruz concluded.

Dipolog media urged to support breastfeeding, climate change advocacy

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 23 (PIA) – Media practitioners here have been asked to help promote breastfeeding among mothers in a media forum held by the Department of Health (DOH)-9 at Camila Hotel 1 here recently.

Health Education Promotion Officer Virgie Galarreta and Regional Information Officer Tess de la Cruz of DOH-9 took turns discussing the importance of breastfeeding especially to the mothers and children.

Galarreta also presented the salient provisions of Republic Act (RA) 10028, otherwise known as the Expanded Breastfeeding Act of 2009.

Under this act, business establishments are also encouraged to set up lactating stations where mothers can breastfeed their children.

Ms. Tess de la Cruz also told the media practitioners that breast milk is best for babies, as it reduces incidence of allergens. It also contains adequate amount of antibodies to protect the babies against diseases.

Studies have shown that breastfeeding results in fewer neonatal infections.

In the same forum climate change advocacy campaign was also discussed by Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9.

Edaga said climate change is the new normal requiring proper understanding of all and sundry. She then appealed to the press to help weaken public’s apathy to climate change by drumming up people’s awareness on this phenomenon.

“We need to generate active cooperation and participation in this campaign for our own protection,” urged the PIA-9 chief.

DBM releases P4.99 B for NGP

(dbm.gov.ph)

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P4.99 billion to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the continued implementation of the National Greening Program, (NGP) which aims to plant 1.5 billion trees across 1.5 million hectares nationwide by 2016.

The program aims to cover approximately 300,000 hectares annually from 2014 until 2016, DBM said in a statement.

The fund release—charged against the FY 2014 General Appropriations Act (GAA)—will support actual seedling and planting activities for the year, as well as site maintenance and the protection of planting areas already established in previous years.

“Our funding support for the National Greening Program is well-timed, given that the season’s regular rainfall will allow seedlings to grow faster. This year, the DENR’s tree-planting efforts will give particular attention to areas with high poverty levels, as well as regions that are susceptible to natural disasters,” Secretary of Budget Florencio “Butch” Abad said.

“The Aquino administration is definitely looking at all viable solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change. We’re not just looking at these options and twiddling our thumbs over them. We’re taking active steps to implement our disaster risk management programs,” he emphasized.

The program has exceeded its annual area coverage targets by an average of 20 percent for the first three years of implementation. Last year, it exceeded its annual target by 33,011 hectares, resulting in 182,548,862 seedlings planted in 333,160 hectares nationwide.

Moreover, the planting program has generated a total of 1.2 million jobs in different regions nationwide since 2011. Last year alone, it was able to hire 466,990 employees which is the highest number recorded since the program began.

“Aside from mitigating the devastating effects of climate change, the program also provides livelihood opportunities to the local residents. Our efforts to protect our environment go hand-in-hand with our commitment to protect and improve the living conditions of our people, besides catalyzing economic growth in agriculture-based communities,” Abad added.

From the P5-billion release, Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula) will receive the highest allocation of P384.8 million for the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Sibugay. This is followed closely by Region IV-A (CALABARZON) with P379.3 million for the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Quezon and Rizal. Central Luzon—which includes the provinces of Aurora, Pampanga, and Zambales—has also been allotted P366.7 million.

Seedlings for planting include those for trees that can be used for timber and fuelwood. Other seedlings include coffee, cacao, rubber, bamboo, rattan, and other fruit trees. Specific planting areas include forestlands, mangroves, ancestral domains, civil and military reservations, local-government-unit identified urban areas, inactive and abandoned mine sites, and other suitable lands.

Of the total 1.5 million-hectare program target, 683,481 hectares have already been cultivated as of last year, leaving 816,519 hectares to be developed until 2016.

Bodies of slain soldiers airlifted to Villamor Air Base

By Jewel Reyes (ABS-CBN News Zamboanga; ANC)

MANILA - The bodies of six soldiers killed in action in Patikul, Sulu following a clash with the Abu Sayyaf Group on June 19 are set to arrive at the Villamor Air Base on Saturday.

The fallen soldiers were given a send-off ceremony at the Edwin Andrews Air Base on Saturday morning.

One of the seven soldiers killed in the clash will be transported to Baligian, Zamboanga del Norte.

Meanwhile, the 24 wounded in the clash are receiving treatment at the Camp Navarro General Hospital. Four of them are in critical condition.

The wounded soldiers were given a recognition by the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom).

The Wesmincom, meanwhile, is verifying if foreign and Filipino tourists were taken hostage by the group that launched the attack on Thursday.

Pursuit operations are underway.


Fire razes 10 houses in Dipolog City

By Roel Pareño (philstar.com)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - - At least 10 houses were razed to the ground in a conflagration that hit a slum village in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte Thursday noon.

Senior Inspector Joseph Ortega, spokesman of Police Regional Office 9 (PRO), said no one was hurt during the fire that lasted about an hour at Purok Bulahan, sitio Catadman, Barangay Turno, displacing 50 families and leaving them homeless.

Ortega said Dipolog City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported that the fire occurred about 12:20 p.m. in one of the rooms of houses triggered by electrical short circuit and quickly spread to the other houses made of light materials.

Responding fire fighters had a difficult time reaching the area owing to the narrow road. Fire fighters also had to extend their water hose to about 300 meters to reach the burning site.

The fire damaged an estimated P150,000 worth of properties while the affected residents are temporarilyy evacuated to the Zamboanga del Norte National High School annex and were provided with relief assistance by the local government.

DA trains teachers on veggie production

By Jeanny M. Rodriguez (DA-9)

The Department of Agriculture Region 9 thru its High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) and in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) recently conducted a two-day training entitled, “Training of Trainors on Agri-Pinoy Gulayan sa Paaralan Program (AP-GPP)” at the Top Plaza Hotel, Dipolog City.

The training was intended for the elementary and secondary teachers for Edukasyong Pangtahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) and Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) subjects in public schools.

“The objective of this training is to address food security, nutrition, and to encourage children to eat vegetables at the same time allow them to have income from vegetables,” HVCDP Coordinator Ms. Ana S. Aying explained after she gave the rationale of the training.

On the first day, all 55 participants were from Dipolog City. Mayor Evelyn T. Uy told the teachers “the AP-GPP program is very important because this will help educate our children to eat vegetables given that they spend more time in school than at home. The community should as well value agriculture. There are still idle lands that people did not make use of,” Mayor Uy said.

On the second day, 170 participants were from the three congressional districts in the province of Zamboanga del Norte. Dr. Sofia Uy, head of the Health and Nutrition Unit, DepEd, ZN said, “I hope that we are going to execute our learning here in AP-GPP training not because we are in a competition, but because we love to do this. We must promote security on the food that we partake, and let this program from the Department of Agriculture be our way in making this possible.”

The DA will provide the planting materials to all schools who attended the training and also aim to make all public schools in Region IX recipients of the Agri-Pinoy Gulayan sa Paaralan Program.

Among others, topics discussed were, tips on vegetable production; vermi composting; implementing guidelines on school gardening; establishment of school gardens; and indigenous vegetables. Lecturers were Ms. Aying, and HVCDP Report Officer Hanibal Bayoang.

Also present during the training were DA Agricultural Program Coordinator for Zamboanga del Norte Mr. Vicente G. Balingit and Mr. Robert Villacora, from the Office of Senator Cynthia Villar, who said, “Let us make this AP-GPP a sustainable practice in our school and in our community.”

DAR-Zambo. Norte holds business plan training for ARBs

By Mary Mae Abellon (FPG/MAA/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 18 (PIA) – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Zamboanga del Nortethroughthe Agrarian Production Credit Program (APCP) in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) is giving workshops on Basic Business Plan preparation to Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in the entire province.

This training is made available to ARBsupon request of their respective Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs).

“This is a continuous undertaking of DAR to provide better opportunity to ARBs by enhancing their knowledge and skills in business planning,” said ShaniePacatang-Jacinto, DAR-ZNinformation officer.

It was also learned that the training has beendesigned to teach the identified Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) to devise and work on their own business for them to comply with the loan documentary requirements of financing institutions.

A total amount of P31million has been allocated by the APCP for the benefit of 1,112 ARBs in the province.

The workshop would also teach the beneficiaries the key steps in using the business plan as a management tool with which they will learn about business finance, sales and marketing, cash flow, as well as profit and loss.

“Planning is an essential part of successfully running the business. Through this workshop, DAR will enable to plan effectively and trade with their products profitably,” Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Moh Dassan J. Adju said.

Gov’t sees bright future for PH banana export’s to US

(Manila Bulletin)

The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) expects a bright future for the export of Philippine bananas to United States territories as on-going negotiations point to positive results.

BPI Director Clarito Barron said the prospect of exporting locally-grown bananas to US territories like Guam, Northern Marianas Islands, and Hawaii “will definitely lead to an increase in the country’s revenue and therefore boost our banana industry.”

The initial commercial export of Philippine bananas to Continental US was shipped to San Diego, California, on August 20, 2013.

A total of 486 cartons (6.561 metric tons) of highland Cavendish Dole Sweet bananas sourced from Bukidnon were sent to the US.

Through the BPI’s Plant Quarantine Services (PQS), Barron said the creation of market opportunities through bilateral relations with importing and exporting countries and conduct of pest risk analyses have been successfully facilitated.

He added that being declared as Freedom Area for Mango Pulp and Seed Weevil by the US government through the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) on February 8, 2013, is a good development, as this would give the Philippines the privilege to source mango for export in the USA in any of its provinces, except Palawan, and would entice other countries to import the country’s mango products.

Mango pulp weevil (MPW) and mango seed weevil (MSW) are pests that attack the pulp and seed of the mango fruit, respectively, rendering it inedible.

The Special Commodity of Understanding for the Importation to Australia of fresh mango fruit from the Philippines was officially signed at the Philippines Australia Agriculture Forum held in Canberra, Australia, on July 9, 2013.

Mangoes from Guimaras and Samal Islands as well as from Davao del Sur entered the Australian market on June 8, 2013.

The six shipments from June 8 to July 10, 2013, to Melbourne and Adelaide, have a total volume of 4.76 metric tons (MT) and is equivalent to a total value of US$14,587.

Barron said this signals the acceptance of the Australian government of the country’s mango not only sourced from the Island of Guimaras but from other areas as a result of regular bilateral talks with the Australian government.

Before being declared MPW and MSW free, BPI conducted a nationwide low monitoring survey for MPW and MSW in different areas in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The survey was done in 15 regions involving 50 mango-growing provinces.

Six regions and 20 provinces were surveyed in Luzon; three regions and 10 provinces in Visayas; and six regions and 20 provinces in Mindanao.

The PQS is closely monitoring several areas nationwide based on their proximity to weevil-infested areas and the intensity of movement of agricultural commodities and sea and air travelers.

These areas included Batangas, Quezon, Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Northern Palawan, Aklan, Antique, Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Cebu, Zamboanga City, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Misamis Oriental, North Cotabato, SOCKSARGEN, Maguindanao, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-tawi.

Due to BPI’s commitment in the eradication of the said pests, out of 104,155 trees and 1,040,100 fruits targeted for sampling and collection, a total of 101,971 trees were sampled and 1,009,123 fruits were collected and dissected resulting in a 96.85 percent accomplishment for trees and 96.89 percent accomplishment for fruits for the year 2013.

Dapitan MTCC judge keynotes 116th Independence Day celebration in Dipolog

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

DIPOLOG CITY, June 16 (PIA) — “I am sure that if we follow this ‘daang matuwid,’ we will be able to realize the true essence of independence,” Judge Jose Rene Dondoyano of the Municipal Trial Court in Cities (MTCC) of Dapitan City told a throng of 3,000 attending a program in commemoration of the 116th Independence Day here last Thursday.

Speaking on the theme, ”Pagsunod sa Yapak ng mga Dakilang Pilipino, Tungo sa Malawakan at Permanenteng Pagababago,” Judge Dondoyano urged the public to follow in the footsteps of “our great ancestors and heroes” in order to attain a wider and permanent change for “the betterment of our country.”

Dondoyano also hailed the effort of President Benigno S. Aquino III to cleanse the bureaucracy of corrupt and inefficient officials, as he called on the public to ponder seriously the “true state of our existence as an independent nation.”

The country, he said, has been faced with huge foreign debt, high unemployment rate, weak peso against the dollar, frequent brownouts, congress tainted with corruption charges, high-ranking government officials accused of graft and corruption and many more.

The MTCC judge, however, commended the Dipolognons and the people of Zamboanga del Norte for electing good leaders who have the trust and confidence of President Aquino.

The city leadership is pushing for its vision of “Swigapore 2030,” which aims to make Dipolog a bustling commercial center similar to Singapore while preserving its green environment like Switzerland.

Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Governor Roberto Y. Uy is pushing for the development of the province by implementing infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, farm-to-market roads, irrigation systems as well as health and livelihood programs to extricate the province from the roster of poorest provinces in the country.

The celebration started with a flag-raising ceremony and a program at the city plaza, followed by a foot parade to the city boulevard with officials and employees of the provincial and city governments, national government agencies (NGAs), non-government organizations (NGOs), civic organizations, academe, business sector, religious sector, 21 barangays of Dipolog City, Department of Education, (DepEd), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and students from the different schools in the city as participants.

The Philippine Independence was declared by the first Philippine President Emilio Aguinaldo in Kawit, Cavite in 1898.

Young NPA amazon surrenders to the military in Zamboanga Norte

(Mindanao Examiner)

PAGADIAN CITY (Mindanao Examiner / June 15, 2014) – A 19-year old female fighter of the communist rebel group New People’s Army surrendered Sunday to the military after her group abandoned her following a firefight in Zamboanga del Norte’s Leon Postigo town.

Capt. Franco Suelto, a spokesman for the 1st Infantry Division, said Mary Sadia, alias Ka Lisa, also surrendered her M16 automatic rifle and five magazines, including a rifle grenade, to Lt. Levie Jolly Bulawan, of the 10th Infantry Battalion.

“She revealed that her comrades abandoned her during the firefight with the government troops. Instead of re-joining his comrades, she opted to surrender to rejoin the mainstream society and live a normal and peaceful life with her family,” Suelto said.

Sadia’s group clashed with troops under Bulawan on June 14 also in Leon Postigo town where one government soldier was wounded.

Colonel Aminkadra Undug, the division commander, praised the troops involved in the surrender of Sadia. “Her surrender is a proof of our sincerity in promoting peace and we urge other rebels to come and join us and live peacefully with your family,” he said.

The NPA is the military wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines which has been fighting for decades for the establishment of a separate state in the country.

Dapitan City lines up activities to commemorate Rizal's 153rd birthday

(PNA), JBP/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION/PJN

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, June 14 (PNA) -- The city government of Dapitan City in the nearby Zamboanga del Norte province has lined up several activities to commemorate the 153rd birthday of the country’s national hero Dr. Jose Rizal on June 19.

Dapitan City Tourism Officer Apple Marie Agolong said the activities will start at 4 a.m. of June 19 with a “Diana” around the city by the city’s Executive Band.

Agolong said it will be followed by a fun run dubbed as “Takbo Pepe Takbo” from 5-7 a.m. The starting point will be at the Punto del Desembarco de Rizal in Barangay Sta. Cruz.

The fun run will have three categories and these are: three-kilometer; five-kilometer; and, 10-kilometer.

The fun run will be followed by fun games dubbed as “Tubig at iba pa alay kay Pepe” jointly sponsored by the Order of the Knights of Rizal-Dapitan City chapter, Dapitan City National High School, Dapitan City Resort Hotel and Pavillon, Community Rural Bank of Dapitan City, Inc. and the City Mayors Office.

Dapitan City Mayor Rosalina Jalosjos will lead the wreath-laying together with the officers-bearers and Brethren of Lodge Perla de Oriente No. 1034, Manila and Antonio Lim Memorial Lodge No. 162, Dipolog City at 7 a.m. at the City Plaza Rizal Monument.

Another wreath-laying will be held at 7:15 a.m. by students of Rizal Memorial Institute of Dapitan City, Dapitan City Central School and Dapitan City Experimental School at the foot or Rizal’s monument.

Agolong said that a commemorative program will follow at the Punto de Desembarco de Rizal.

It will start with a flag raising ceremony to be followed by the message of Jalosjos and cultural presentations.

Agolong said there will be also free medical consultation, dog vaccination and feeding program.

At 2 p.m. of June 19, Agolong said there will be a musical tribute to Rizal and essay-writing contest.

At 5 p.m., there will be an exclusive gathering of the office-bearers and Brethren of Lodge Perla de Oriente No. 1034 with invited guests to commemorate the life of Rizal at the Rizal Shrine-Dapitan City.

The activities commemorating the 153rd birth celebration of Rizal will culminate with the Fun at Gloria de Dapitan with 50 percent discount on rides at the Fantasyland sponsored by the Jalosjos Group of Companies.

Dipolog City jail inmates to hold concert for a cause

By Mary Mae Abellon (FPG/MAA/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 13 (PIA) – The Bureau of Jail Management and Penelogy (BJMP) will hold a concert dubbed “Show for a Cause” on June 21 at the covered court of Dipolog City Jail (DCJ) compound in Barangay Dicayas.

DCJ band members and other inmates will showcase their talents aimed at raising funds for the renovation of the city jail kitchen.

This is the first time the city jail will conduct such an event under the leadership of Jail Senior Inspector Atty. Mashur S. Sala.

To keep city jail orderly during the concert, certain rules and guidelines shall be strictly enforced such as no bringing of sharp and pointed weapons, no wearing of shorts by women, wearing of sleeveless by both men and women and wearing of yellow t-shirts.

Tickets are available from Jail Officer Llara G. Ortiz of the Inmate Welfare Development Office. She can be reached at cellphone No. 09497011501.

Dipolog’s “P’gsalabuk” street dancing slated July 1

By Mary Mae Abellon (FPG/MAA/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 12 (PIA) – The P’gsalabuk street dancing, which was previously held during the May city fiesta, has been moved to July 1 on the occasion of the city’s 101st founding anniversary.

The said event was moved from its usual date to give the Dipolognons more time to participate in the activities lined up for the feast of St. Vincent Ferrer, which is celebrated every third week of May with “Tudturudtud” dance.

Besides, the city government also plans to save on its expenses by holding the P’gsalabuk street dancing during the “Araw ng Dipolog.”

To make the city’s 101st founding anniversary more colorful, the city government is going to hold “Panagsangka 2014” (sports competitions), coco challenge, variety shows, tribute to public servants and the giving of special awards to deserving individuals and groups.

PCAPI launches “Adopt a Estero Program” in Dipolog

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) here, in partnership with the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines Inc. (PCAPI) and the local government unit of Dipolog City conducted a cleanup drive.

Thursday in one of the water tributaries in the city in support of the the “Adopt a Estero Program.”

Residents of Barangay Sta. Isabel, personnel from the Provincial Environmenet and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) and Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), city government officials and employees, officers and members of Pollution Control Association of the Philippines, Inc.

(PCAPI), beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program(4Ps) and representatives from Environment Management Bureau (EMB)-9 joined the cleanup activity.

PCAPI-Zamboanga del Norte Chapter President Javier Suico Jr. said PCAPI was organized in Sept. 2012 with pollution control officers as members.

“We formed this organization because of our concern on environment. The greatest enemy of environment is man itself. So, we have to correct the mistakes that man has committed to our environment,” Suico said.

During the opening program, Barangay Sta. Isabel Chaiman Dioscoro Endab thanked PCAPI for choosing the Miputak Creek of Barangay Sta. Isabel as the pilot area for the launching of “Adopt a Estero Program.”

“Through this program, we hope to maintain the cleanliness of the Miputak creek and show to the people that environmental concern is everyone’s responsibility,” Endab said.

Community and Environment and Natural Resources Officer Jeoffrey Zayas also reiterated the DENR’s mandate “to keep the people informed and to take cognizance of the value of ecological solid waste management,” reminding those living near the creek not to throw their wastes to the creek as these would not only make the surroundings look dirty but destory the marine life as well.

On the other hand, Dipolog City CENRO-designate Rodney Benedicto said that lots of wastes are now seen floating on some bodies of water - wastes which are made by man.

“If we want our children to live in a clean environment, let us make our earth free from wastes,” Benedicto said.

In a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed last May 30 between PCAPI, DENR and the city government of Dipolog, PCAPI identified the Miputak Creek as its pilot area.

The parties agreed to conduct a cleanup drive on June 5 as its kick-off activity in time of the observance of the World Environment Day.


OWWA-9 readies for Migrants Workers Day celebration

(PNA), LAM/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY, June 10 (PNA) -- The Overseas Workers and Welfare Administration in Region 9 (OWWA-9) is making all the necessary preparations for the celebration of the Migrant Workers Day on June 21.

OWWA Regional Director Hassan Gabra Jumdain said this year’s celebration is anchored on the theme, “Migranteng Pilipino...Magkasangga Tayo sa Kapakanan, Kabuhayan at Kalusugan Mo.”

Jumdain said the theme emphasizes on the welfare of every Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) across the globe.

Guided by this year’s theme, Jumdain said they are set to conduct several activities to augment awareness, strengthen livelihood and promote good health among its members and their families.

Jumdain said the celebration will be held at Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte.

He said the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) will spearhead the conduct of a jobs fair at JRMSU between jobseekers and recruitment agencies to “open more doors of opportunities for the OFWs and their dependents.”

He said that a forum on Migrant Workers Day Act 8042 as amended by R.A. 10022 will be conducted in this city and in Zamboanga del Norte on June 17 and June 19, respectively.

The forum will be attended by Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers, non-government organizations and the academe.

It will be followed by a signing of Memorandum of Agreement between and among the regional offices of OWWA, POEA, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and other corporate, social and institutional partners.

The resource speakers of the forum will be Atty. Aysar T. Amilbangsa, an Associate Professor at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and Universidad de Manila.

Jumdain said the forum is pursuant to the directive of DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz to enhance the delivery of services of DOLE, OWWA, POEA and TESDA and reach out to its clientele in every city and municipality in collaboration with the local government units, NGOs, academe and OFW Family Circles by establishing OFW Help Desks in their respective areas.

He said that other activities such as physical exercise and fun games are also set for the OFWs and their families.

Zambo. Norte guv appointed as new RPOC-9 chair

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 9 (PIA) – Zamboanga del Norte Govenor Roberto U. Uy has recently been appointed as the new chair of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC)-9 to steer it in addressing the peace and order issues and concerns in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas personally handed the appointment to Governor Uy during his visit here last May 30, the opening day of the weeklong “Saulog” (celebration) festival commemorating the 62nd founding anniversary of the province.

Secretary Roxas served as guest of honor and speaker during the opening of “Saulog” festival.

Based on Executive Order No. 773 series of 2009, the Secretary of Interior and Local Government (SILG) has the authority as chair of the National Peace and Order Council (NPOC) to issue an appoinmtment to the regional chair, duly approved by the President.

RPOC is tasked to provide a forum for dialogues and deliberation of major issues and problems affecting peace and order including insurgency with the help of the military, police and civilian authorities/agencies.

It is composed of provincial governors, mayors of highly urbanized cities, a representative of the mayors of the component cities, presidents of the League of Municipalities and regional heads of the different line agencies.

RPOC-9 deals with the peace and order concerns in the Zamboanga Peninsula which covers the cities of Dapitan, Dipolog, Pagadian, Zamboanga and Isabela City in Basilan Province as well as the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay.

DAR-ARCP2 groundbreaks ZNAC FMR

By Ma. Socorro C. Reambonanza (Information Officer IIII)

“Ako malaumon nga atong mapadangat ang kalamboan ngadto sa tibuok probinsiya pinaagi sa atong mga proyekto alang sa mga katawhan.” (I am hopeful that progress and development will be attained by the province through the different projects we implemented for the people)

These were the words of Governor Roberto Y. Uy of Zamboanga del Norte during the recent groundbreaking ceremony of the 2.5 kilometers ZNAC, Tampilisan farm-to-market-road amounting to P12.1 million under the Department of Agrarian Reform - Agrarian Reform Community Project II (DAR-ARCP2).

Governor Uy also stressed all these different government projects aim to uplift the standard of living of our farmers and that he is grateful to DAR for bringing about community development through this project.

It can be noted that DAR accelerates the delivery of support services to agrarian reform beneficiaries and other farmers through the implementation of foreign- assisted projects (FAPs), one of which is the ARCP2. Under the DAR’s Agrarian Reform Communities Development Framework, these FAPs provide a package of interventions designed to ensure the productivity of awarded lands, increase household incomes and enhance the socio-economic status of Agrarian Reform Community (ARC) residents. Specifically, it covers gender and development as well as participation of the indigenous people.

OIC PARO II Moh. Dassan J. Adju, in his message during the program, also expressed that DAR’s thrust is to continue its development efforts for the welfare of the agrarian reform beneficiaries towards poverty alleviation. “We never stopped to push the development of our agrarian reform communities,” he said.

On his part, Tampilisan Mayor Angeles Carloto II, expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards DAR for their efforts in working towards the development of their municipality through ARCP2. He also challenged his constituents in pursuing this project until its completion.

The ARCP2 is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and its long-term development goal is to reduce poverty in about 152 ARC clusters located in southern Philippines. Specifically, it aims to contribute to sustained improvements in the incomes of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) and non-ARBs and in the quality of life in the ARC.

The ARCP2 is designed to provide development investment in the different components; namely: the community-driven development as a lead component to mobilize the community, strengthen the organizational processes, improve governance and build stronger platform for sustainability. Agriculture and Enterprise development to increase productivity and profitability of income generating activities, develop and improve markets and market linkages, and promote agribusiness. On the other hand, the rural infrastructure component is an enabler to improved production, cropping intensity, cost effectiveness and access to services, and enhanced ARC connectivity to promote agribusiness.

Suspect for the crime of frustrated homicide arrested in Manukan

With report from PO2 Jonas D. Macasa Jr. (RPIO9)

A man with a case of frustrated homicide was arrested by the operatives of Manukan Municipal Police Station, Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial Office on Wednesday afternoon. Arrested person has pending warrant of arrest issued by Judge Yolinda C Bautista, Regional Trial Court, 9th Judicial Region, Branch 9, Dipolog City, for the crime of frustrated homicide, docketed under criminal case number 14717. Accused was identified as Federico Andawi y Naon, married and was arrested at their residence. He is a resident of Barangay Mate, Manukan, Zamboanga del Norte. The amount of Php 24,000 was the recommended bail bond for his temporary liberty. However, he failed to post bail, thus, he was detained at the detention cell of Manukan Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

DILG appoints ZamboNorte governor as new RPOC-9 chairman

By Hitohito D. Cadion [(PNA), CTB/TPGJR/HDC/JSD]

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, June 6 (PNA) – The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has appointed Zamboanga del Norte Gov. Roberto Uy as the new chairman of the Regional Peace and Order Council-9 (RPOC-9), a DILG official announced Friday.

DILG Regional director Paisal Abutazil said Uy's appointment was personally handed over to the governor by DILG secretary Manuel Roxas, II, who visited the province as the guest speaker of this year’s week-long “Saulog Festival” in line with the 62nd Founding Anniversary celebration of Zamboanga del Norte.

The week-long festival culminated Friday, June 6, the 62nd Foundation Day of Zamboanga del Norte.

Abutazil said Roxas has the authority as National Peace and Order Council chairman to appoint RPOC chairperson pursuant to the provisions of Executive Order No.773, series of 2009.

Abutazil said the RPOC chairman shall appoint the three private sector representatives upon consultation with the Council members and upon acquiring the appropriate security clearances.

The RPOC duties and functions include include the following: to provide a forum for dialogue and deliberation of major issues and problems affecting peace and order including insurgency; recommend measures which will improve or enhance peace and order and public safety in their respective areas of responsibility including anti-insurgency measures; recommend measures to converge and orchestrate internal security operations efforts of civil authorities and agencies, military and police.

Zambo. Norte holds Saulog Jobs Fair ‘14

(FPG/MMG/GIP/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 5 (PIA) – The provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has spearheaded a two-day jobs fair last June 2-3 to give the job seekers opportunities to find employment.

Eleven recruitment agencies for overseas jobs came over to participate in said jobs fair. They were East West Placement Center Inc., Speed Continental Employment Agency Inc., ZONTAR Manpower Services Inc., AL ALAMIA International Manpower Services, NAWRAS Manpower Services Inc., JOSE LINE International Manpower Corporation, M.H.D Manpower and Human Development Inc., MAANYAG International Manpower Corporation, Mother’s Way Overseas Manpower Specialist Corporation, MMML Recruitment Services Inc. and NON-STOP Overseas Employment Corporation.

Some local establishments also joined the jobs fair such as Ariana Hotel, Inc., One Network Bank, Inc., D’Hotel and Suites, Vicente T. Lao Construction, CONVERGYS, Katipunan Bank, Euro P@P Direct, Inc., 1st Valley Bank, Virginia Hotdog, SITEL and CITI Hardware.

POEA-9 Regional Head Marietta M. Belotindos warned the job seekers of illegal recruiters. “No to illegal recruiters. Do not believe in illegal recruiters.You must ask if this agency is accredited by POEA,” she said.

“Legal recruitment must be done in offices not in anywhere else,” she added.

Belotindos advised those who are seeking employment not to be lured by juicy offers by any recruitment agency. Instead, they have to verify whether that agency is legal and duly authorized by the POEA.

Some 20,000 job vacancies here and abroad were available for the applicants during the jobs fair.

The jobs fair, which was one of the highlights of the 62nd founding anniversary of the province, was held at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports Center with DOLE-Zamboanga del Norte head Henry Tianero, POEA-9 head Marietta Belotindos, People Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager Ryan Victor Miranda, recruitment agencies and job seekers in attendance.

Sec. Roxas graces “Saulog” celebration in Zambo. Norte

By Alfonso T. Ruda (FPG/MAA/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 4 (PIA) - The first “Saulog” Festival 2014 that signaled the start of the 62nd founding anniversary celebration of Zamboanga del Norte formally opened Friday with Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas as guest speaker.

Secretary Roxas together with Regional Director Faizal Abutazil of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-9 was welcomed by the officials of the provincial government led by Governor Roberto Y. Uy, second district Representative Rosendo Labadlabad, third district Representative Isagani Amatong, Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn T. Uy, municipal mayors and councilors, barangay officials of Dipolog City as well as personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and the Department of Education (DepEd).

Roxas said he had felt the changes in our province under the leadership of Governor Uy who earned the moniker “Berto Semento,” because of his all-out effort to pave all roads in the province.

He also mentioned the acquisition of new firearms for the PNP, the construction of thousands of new classrooms to accommodate the increasing number of students every year and the 4.3 million poor families who have availed themselves of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program(4Ps) and the expanded coverage of Philhealth, as few of the gains of the economic reforms implemented by the Aquino administration.

Governor Uy, in his welcome message, thanked the DILG Secretary for taking time to grace the opening of the Saulog celebration amidst his hectic schedule.

In his message, Secretary Roxas thanked the people of the province for the warm welcome they had extended to him and for allowing Governor Uy to lead the province to implement the appropriate programs needed by the people.

Representative Amatong, on the other hand, urged the people to continue supporting the present administration to sustain the development implemented by the Aquino government. He reiterated the untarnished record of the Roxas family in the field of public service. Acknowledged as the mentor of good governance, Amatong appealed to the people to rally behind the national leadership towards the so-called “Matuwid na Daan.”

Representative Labad-labad also stressed the value of good governance for the country’s development as he pointed out the rise of the Philippine economy, even beating China as one of the fastest growing economy in the region. Philippines ranked 10th, compared to China’s 11th.

Meanwhile, President Benigno Aquino III, through Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr, has issued Proclamation No. 778, series of 2014, dated May 28, 2014, declaring June 6, 2014 a Special (Non-Working) Day in Zamboanga del Norte in observance of its 62nd Founding Anniversary.

Nego-Tour ’14 showcases products in Zambo. Norte

By Mary Mae Abellon (FPG/MAA/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, June 3 (PIA) – The Agri-Tourism Investment Forum or the Nego-Tour ’14, which was held here Friday, showcased potential products of Zamboanga del Norte that can compete both locally and globally.

Among the potential products are rubber, coconut and palm oil, mineral products, cacao, seaweeds, bamboo and the tourism sites of the province.

The Nego-Tour, which is one of the highlights of the 62nd founding anniversary of the Zamboanga del Norte, was spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry in partnership with the city government of Dipolog, Regional Development Council (RDC)-9 as well as the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG/, Department of Agriculture (DA), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 9abfar), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP).

Representatives from the business sector, local government units and the media also participated in the said activity.

In her message, Dipolog Mayor Evelyn T. Uy said: “This is a chance to develop our priority products in the province.”

Governor Roberto Y. Uy, on the other hand, said “the activity is one way to show that the province is now a viable area for investors.”

“Time will come our province will become the richest among the provinces in Mindanao and in the whole country. The blessing of the Lord gives wealth,” Governor Uy added.

Executive Assistant Ryan Victor P. Miranda of the provincial government also showed in a video presentation the proposed ASEAN blueprint of Zamboanga del Norte featuring a free flow of goods, agri-products and other products the province can offer.

“Zamboanga del Norte will open doors for global competitiveness. We have the place, the people, support and the shared dreams to make Zamboanga del Norte an agri-tourist venture,” Miranda said.

Moreover, Philippine Bamboo Foundation Inc. (PBFI) President Edgardo Manda, former general manager of the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), talked on the viability and development of the bamboo industry in the country and in Zamboanga del Norte.

The participants were also informed of the financing programs from government banks and other government agencies.

Mindanao reps and their net worth: one billionaire, 66 millionaires, only one under a million

By Carolyn O. Arguillas (MindaNews)

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews) — The net worth of Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel Pacquiao, the country’s richest representative – P1.3 billion in 2013 – is 2,250 times the net worth of the country’s poorest district representative, fellow Mindanawon and Dinagat Islands’ lone representative, Arlene“Kaka’ Bag-ao’s P598,000 and 174,233 times the net worth of the poorest paty-list representative, Anakpawis Rep. Fernando Hicap’s P37,722.

Pacquiao and Maguindanao Rep. Zajid Mangudadatu made it to the Top 10 richest representatives – Pacquiao topping the list and Mangudadatu ranking 10th with a net worth of P215.8 million while two Mindanawons made it to the Top 10 poorest: Bag-ao and party-list Rep. Cresente Paez of Coop-Nattco.

The House of Representatives has 289 members, 234 of them representing districts and 55 party-list.

Mindanao has 68 representatives in Congress – 59 district and nine party-list representatives.

MindaNews ranked the Mindanawon representatives’ net worth based on the 2013 Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs) they filed with the House of Representatives and found that of the 68 Mindanawons, one is a billionaire, 66 are millionaires and only one has a net worth of under a million pesos.

The top ten richest Mindanawon representatives , based on the SALN they filed, come from among the poorest provinces in the country.

The top 10 richest Mindanawon representatives and (districts):

1. Pacquiao, Emmanuel of Sarangani: - P 1,345,499,575.00
2. Mangudadatu, Zajid of Maguindanao: - P 215,849,950.00
3. Sahali, Ruby of Tawi-tawi: - P 173,715,000.00
4. Oaminal, Henry of Misamis Occidental (2) - P 160,399,271.12
5. Unabia, Peter of Misamis Oriental (1) - P 127,862,800.00
6. Rodriguez, Rufus of Cagayan de Oro (2) - P 103,425,000.00
7. Labadlabad, Rosendo of Zamboanga del Norte - P 77,211,270.23
8. Lobregat, Celso of Zamboanga City (1) - P 73,988,546.03
9. Dimaporo, Abdullah D. of Lanao del Norte (1) - P 65,646,551.76
Dimaporo, Imelda Q. of Lanao del Norte (2) - P 65,646,551.76
10. Hofer, Dulce Ann of Zamboanga Sibugay (2) - P 64,514,965.00

According to the National Statistical Coordinating Board (NSCB), the poverty incidence among families in these provinces as of 2012 are 46.5% in Sarangani, 57.8% in Maguindanao, 20.8% in Tai-tawi, 36.6% in Misamis Occidental, 25.0% in Misamis Oriental, 50.3% in Zamboanga del Norte, 42.5% in Lanao del Norte and 36.8% in Zamboanga Sibugay. The Top Ten poorest Mindanawon representatives, according to their declared SALNs, are:

1. Bag-ao, Arlene of Dinagat Islands - P 598,012.82
2. Paez, Cresente C. of Coop-Nattco - P 1,098,000.00
3. Zarate, Carlos Isagani of Bayan Muna - P 1,518,114.54
4. Masongsong, Edgardo of 1CARE P 2,013,267.81
5. Fortun, Lawrence Lemuel of Agusan del Norte (1) - P 2,945,000.00
6. Tejada, Jose of North Cotabato (3) - P 3,453,973.64
7. Ilagan, Luzviminda of Gabriela - P 4,185,184.00
8. Hernandez, Ferdinand of South Cotabato (2) - P 4,340,299.00
9. Piamonte, Mariano, Jr. of A Teacher P 5,498,000.00
10. Amante, Erlpe John of Agusan del Norte (2) - P 5,911,012.00
Zero Liabilities

Of the ten “poorest,” four are district representatieves and the rest are party-list representatives.

Twelve Mindanawon representatives listed Zero liabilities in their SALNs: Maguindanao’s Zajid Mangudadatu of the 2nd district and the second richest among Mindanawon representatives, and Bai Sandra Sema of the 1st district (20th richest), Jorge Almonte of Misamis Occidental’s 1st district, the 11th richest; Evelyn Plaza-Mellana of Agusan del Sur’s 2nd district, the 13th richest; Pangalian Balindong of the 2nd district of Lanao del Sur; Jesus Sacdalan of North Cotabato’s 1st district; Camiguin’s Xavier Jesus Romualdo; Lillia Nuno of Zamboanga City’s 2nd district; Francisco Matugas of Surigao del Norte’s 2nd district; Florencio Flores of Bukidnon’s 2nd district; Thelma Almario of Davao Oriental’s 1st district; and Gabriela Party’s Luzviminda Ilagan.

The net worth declarations are expected to generate reactions from constituents as some of their declarations do not seem to match their lifestyles.

Questions had earlier been raised over allegations that several government officials, including representatives, have been under-declaring their net worth during the annual filing of the SALNs.

The Mindanao-wide ranking was made by MindaNews from the “Summary Report of Filed Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs) for CY 2013 of Members of the House of Representatives, 16th Congress” posted on the website of the House. MindaNews also came up with a nationwide ranking for comparison.

MindaNews Table 1 shows the categories of the summary report – acquisition cost of real properties, personal properties, total assets, liabilities and net worth. In addition, MindaNews included a column on the extreme left for the ranking among Mindanao colleagues and on the extreme right, a column on the ranking nationwide.

MindaNews Table 2 shows only the names, rankings and provinces or districts represented.

The Mindanao ranking is from 1st to 67th instead of 68th because a husband and wife team – Abdullah and Imelda Dimaporo of the two distr icts of Lanao del Norte – filed a joint SALN. Davao City Rep. Mylene Garcia-Albano also filed a joint SALN with husband, Isabela 1st district Rep. Rodolfo Albano.

Violator of Presidential Decree 705 arrested

With report from PO2 Radzben S. Jul (RPIO9)

Operatives of Piñan Municipal Police Station led by Police Inspector Richeen Mates Lagnayo, Deputy Chief of Police in coordination with Dipolog City Police Station, arrested Merlino Itoc, married and a resident of Barangay Dilawa, Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte. Subject was arrested at Barangay Olingan, Dipolog City by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Judge Oscar Tomarong, Regional Trial Court, 9th Judicial Region, Branch 8, Dipolog City for the crime of violation of section 68, Presidential Decree 705 otherwise known as the Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines, docketed under criminal case number 15910. The amount of Php 30,000.00 was the recommended bail bond for his temporary liberty. Accused was brought to Piñan Municipal Police Station and detained at its detention cell. He will be turned-over to the court concerned.

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