Zamboanga del Sur News February 2015

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Province of Zamboanga del Sur - Archived News of Zamboanga del Sur
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Seal of Zamboanga del Sur Province
Interactive Google Satellite Map of Zamboanga del Sur
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Zamboanga del Sur Map Locator
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Municipalities within Zamboanga del Sur
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Provincial Capitol of Zamboanga del Sur
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Provincial Capitol of Zamboanga del Sur, Santo Niño, Pagadian city

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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Lapuyan Falls: The favorite haunt of the fair Subanen maidens of Sitio Baga and all its neighboring areas, usual meeting place with many a young country swain in some secluded cavern beneath the rocky forest lane.
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Lakewood, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines
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Village of Pedagan

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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Lintugop, Aurora
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Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur
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Provincial human resource management office of santo niño pagadian city
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Civil Service Commision office in santo niño pagadian city

BFAR lifts shellfish ban

By Eva Visperas, Ding Cervantes (The Philippine Star)

DAGUPAN CITY, Philippines – Shellfish collected in all coastal areas in the country are now free of red tide toxins, based on the results of the latest laboratory analysis of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and local government units.

BFAR also lifted the shellfish ban in coastal waters of Mariveles, Limay, Orion, Pilar, Balanga, Orani, Abucay and Samal issued last October.

Shellfish Bulletin 05 series of 2015 dated Feb. 21 signed by BFAR Director Asis Perez said the coastal waters of Cavite, Las Piñas, Parañaque, Navotas and Bulacan in Manila Bay; Bolinao, Anda, Alaminos, Sual and Wawa, Bani in Pangasinan; Masinloc Bay in Zambales; Milagros and Mandaon in Masbate; Juag Lagoon in Matnog and Sorsogon Bay in Sorsogon; Honda and Puerto Bays in Puerto Princesa City and Inner Malampaya Sound in Taytay, Palawan; Pilar, President Roxas, Panay, Roxas City, Ivisan and Sapian in Capiz; Batan Bay in Aklan; and E.B. Magalona, Pontevedra, Pulupandan, Valladolid, Talisay City, Silay City, Bacolod City, Hinigaran, Cadiz City, Victorias City, Bago City, Binalbagan and San Enrique in Negros Occidental are free from red tide.

The coastal waters in Western Samar, Eastern Samar, Iloilo, Leyte, Biliran, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Surigao del Sur, Davao Oriental and Camiguin Island were also declared red-tide free.

Dimataling Theft Suspect, 1 Other Cornered

By PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul [(RPIO9), RMA/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION/EDS]

Pagadian City – A female hospital aide wanted for the crime of “Other Deceits” was arrested by elements of Pagadian City Police Station in Purok Mabini, Barangay Sto. Niño at about 9:45 AM of February 26, 2015. Accused Leah Amsali, 24, admin aide of Zamboanga Del Sur Medical Center was placed under arrest through a warrant with Criminal Case Number 16960 with a Php 2,000.00 bail bond, issued by Presiding Judge Pablito S. Pielago Jr. of 9th Judicial Region, Branch 2 Pagadian City dated February 26, 2015. Suspect is temporarily detained at said police station while waiting for final court adjudication.

Dimataling, Zamboanga Del Sur – A man wanted for theft was arrested by operatives of Dimataling Police Station in Barangay Kagawasan at about 6:15 PM of February 26, 2015. He was identified as Adrian Beton a.k.a. Bergot, 21, a local resident, who was arrested based on a warrant filed under Criminal Case # 15-2202-D. The accused is temporarily detained at Dimataling MPS while awaiting for court commitment order.

Zambo Sur guv asks President Aquino to provide pension benefits to kins of unmarried SAF cops slain in Mamasapano clash

By Hirohito D. Cadion [(PNA), RMA/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION/EDS]

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 26 (PNA) -- Gov. Antonio Cerilles on Thursday urged President Benigno Simeon Aquino, III, to set aside special fund from the President Social Fund to provide pension benefits to the families of slain Special Action Force (SAF) policemen who were single.

Cerilles’ call came after some of the families of the unmarried SAF policemen killed in the Jan. 25 Mamasapano encounter appealed to President Aquino to also provide them pension benefits the same as those who were married.

“Setting aside few millions of pesos is nothing compared to the lives sacrificed for the country,” Cerilles said.

Under Presidential Decree (P.D.) 1184, otherwise known as the Integrated National Police Personnel Professionalization Law of 1977, only the surviving spouse and legitimate children are entitled to receive five-year monthly pension, which is equivalent to 80 percent of the monthly salary, in effect excluding the parents of single policemen as beneficiaries to this pension benefit.

President Aquino has referred the matter to the National Police Commission in a recent meeting at Camp Crame to propose to Congress to amend P.D. 1184 so that parents or any dependents of unmarried policemen will be entitled to receive the five-year monthly pension.

Rosalie Tayrus, sister of the late Insp. Rene Tayrus, appealed to President Aquino to name at least the parents of single policemen as pension beneficiaries, noting that all the slain SAF policemen suffered the same tragic fate and are considered as heroes.

Tayrus was one of the 44 SAF policemen who were killed in the Jan. 25 Mamasapano clash.

“My brother remained single at 28 years old because he wanted to help my mother. Since he was killed serving our country, the President out of compassion and humanitarian reasons should do something to lighten the agony of my mother,” she said.

Tayrus was the only male of nine siblings and the breadwinner of the family since the death of his father five years ago.

Rico Erana, father of Senior Insp. John Gary Erana, said that excluding the parents of unmarried policemen from receiving the five-year monthly pension benefit is grossly unfair because “our sons also die for our country.”

Erana, Tayrus, and Police Office 3 (PO3) Virgel Villanueva are all natives of this province.

Zamboanga sports meet kicks off in Pagadian

By Bong Garcia

A PARADE and a street dancing contest kicked off the Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) 2015 Wednesday in Pagadian City.

More than 5,000 athletes and sports officials are taking part in the four-day competition.

At the opening rites at the Pagadian gymnasium, Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio Cerilles, the keynote speaker, challenged the different local government units and Department of Education (DepEd) officials to strengthen their sports programs so they can excel in the Palarong Pambansa.

Cerilles noted that the region did not earn a single medal during last year's Palaro.

He offered the sports facilities of the province as training venues for the athletes that will see action in the national athletic competition.

The ZPRAA is being held at the 66-hectare provincial government center in Barangay Dao, Pagadian.

Represented in the tournament are the cities of Dapitan, Dipolog, Isabela, Pagadian, and Zamboanga and the provinces of Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay.

We donate blood because we care for our people, says military official

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur with reports from Capt. Win Love Bag-ao)

TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 24 (PIA) – A total of 27,900 units of blood of different types were collected by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC)-Zamboanga del Sur Chapter from 62 blood donors during the bloodletting activity initiated by municipal government here in partnership with 1st Field Artillery Battalion (1FAB) on Friday at the Covered Court, Special Education (SPED) Center this town.

Mayor Francisvic Villamero said “the bloodletting activity is a regular project of the municipality aimed at helping the people especially the Tukuranons who are in need of blood in treating their ailment.”

Villamero said the project, which started in 2012, is being conducted in every quarter each year in support of the PRC’s blood donation campaign.

“Donating blood is a social obligation and responsibility of everyone to show our genuine love and care for our neighbors. When we share our blood, we are saving lives,” said Villamero who has already donated blood four times.

“Blood donation is an incredible act of kindness that an individual takes out of their busy schedule to give a piece of themselves to help a neighbor,” the mayor added.

1FAB battalion commander Lt. Col. Sonny Sales together with his men also came to donate blood to PRC.

“We donate blood not because we are invited, but because we care for our people and it is our duty to save lives in our own little way. This is your army, and the blood we donated is for peace and prosperity of Mindanao,” Sales said.

Sales was raring to donate blood since the last time he did was 10 years ago when he was still assigned in Kalinga Apayao.

Sales said the 1FAB is very much willing to support the blood donation program of the PRC and LGUs within its area of operations to help save lives.

Municipal health officer Dr. Catherine Cabrido, on the other hand, said the LGU is actively pursuing the program to ensure adequate supply of blood.

“In our birthing clinic, we need blood especially for women who experienced blood loss during pregnancy,” she explained adding “there were already lives saved through the blood donation program initiated by the LGU,” Cabrido concluded.

The bloodletting activity was successfully held with the technical support and expertise of the PRC-Zamboanga del Sur chapter headed by Teodora M Ortiz, 53rd Infantry Battalion led by 1st Lieutenant Roderick Alcantara, Tukuran Rural Health Unit and the civil society stakeholders.

DAR partners with DA, DSWD against hunger & poverty in Pagadian City

(PNA), FFC/PR/EBP

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 23 (PNA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Agriculture (DA), and the local government units (LGUs) of San Miguel, Molave, Midsalip and Pagadian City is aiming to focus on hunger mitigation, food security and poverty reduction as it jointly implements projects under Partnership Against Hunger & Poverty (PAHP).

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) II Arturo Soria said 42 officers and representatives from these agencies were tasked to implement the program.

Soria challenged the PAHP team to bring the government programs directly to the poorer sectors in the rural areas.

“The Government of Brazil is technically assisting us thru its Zero Hunger Program under its Center for Excellence Against Poverty. We also have the support of our Development Partners - the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO),World Food Program (WFP), and Asian Development Bank (ADB)”, Soria added.

PARPO I Sherwin B. Tubog said that FAO will provide technical assistance to improve agriculture and fisheries production, and natural resource management. The World Food Program assistance will include treating the undernourished children, providing skills enhancement and higher income opportunities for the rural poor.

Program Beneficiaries Development Division (PBDD) chief, Engr. Josephine Sisican, discussed the interplay of integrated and comprehensive support services delivery for capacity development and provision which include: agri- extension services, rural infrastructure & facilities, foreign assistance projects, agri–insurance, access to credit and micro finance to AR Beneficiaries’ Organizations (ARBOs) with different market access.

Local Day Care Centers will also be handled by DSWD and DepEd while institutional outlets for the various livestock, crops, grains, and veggies will also be facilitated by DAR-DA–DSWD to be assisted by ARBOs who will be spurred to increase farm productivity.

DAR thru the PBDD, empowers the ARBOs by producing and supplying food items as required by the Pantawid Parent Leaders Organizations who in turn prepare the food menus for their children.

With these concerted efforts, and following the Brazilian Government’s Model, PARPO Soria is optimistic that hunger will be lessened, health of undernourished schoolchildren recovered, food security and poverty reduction will be attained, as farmers improve their productivity, increase their income and eventually make their communities flourish.

ZPRAA security plan ready

By Bong Garcia

CARRYING of backpacks in all venues of the Zamboanga Peninsula Athletic Association (ZPRAA) 2015 is not allowed, said a top police official.

This directive came after the police and military have readied security plan to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the four-day ZPRAA 2015 in Pagadian City, the capital of Zamboanga del Sur.

Superintendent Glenn Dulawan, Pagadian City police chief, said the policemen and troops from the Army's 53rd Infantry Battalion will be deployed in the venues of the games, as well as in strategic areas of Pagadian City.

Dulawan said they will be reinforced by the Provincial Public Safety Company and policemen at the province's 26 municipalities.

The ZPRAA, which will see the participation of at least 5,000 athletic delegates, starts February 25 and ends February 28 in Zamboanga City.

The athletic delegates will come from the provinces of Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte and the cities of Dapitan, Dipolog, Isabela, Pagadian and Zamboanga.

Dulawan said they will also put up a police assistance center at the ZPRAA games' venue, as well as in the city proper.

He appealed to the public to cooperate as checkpoints will also be established in different parts of the city.

Zamboanga del Sur town receives Gawad Kalusugan Award

(PNA), LAM/TPGJR/HDCADION/PJN

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 21 (PNA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) has awarded the nearby town of Dumingag the Gawad Kalusugan Award for effectively implementing the smoking ban in offices and public places.

Dumingag Municipal Administrator Richard Butch Cabilan said Saturday they received a plaque and a check worth P500,000 during the DOH Red Orchid Awards 2014 ceremony held Friday at the Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Cabilan said that Dumingag Mayor Nacianceno Pacalioga and five of his department heads attended the awarding ceremony.

Cabilan said the town of Dumingag received the award after achieving 100 percent smoke-free municipality.

He said Dumingag municipality has also been inducted into the Hall of Fame 2014 Awardees since it was the third time the town received the Gawad Kalusugan Award.

He said the P500,000 prize will be used to purchased equipment for the hospital of Dumingag town in compliance to the DOH guidelines.

Dumingag, which comprises of 44 barangays, is a second class municipality of this province. The town has a population of 46,500 as of the 2010 census.


Pagadian City to host Zamboanga Peninsula regional sports meet

(PNA), LAM/TPGJR/HDCADION/PJN

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 20 (PNA) -- All is set for the holding of the four-day Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) 2015 meet in this city.

The ZPRAA competition opens February 25 and ends February 28.

Mayor Romeo Pulmones said Friday everything is ready to include the accommodation of 5,000 athletic delegates as well as the venue of the games at the 66-hectare provincial government center in Barangay Dao, this city.

Participating are the delegates in different sporting events from this city and province; the nearby provinces of Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay; and the cities of Dapitan, Dipolog, Isabela, and Zamboanga.

Pulmones said the athletic technical officials arrived here Thursday.

Aside from athletic contests, he said there will be also street dance competition.

The guest speaker for this year’s ZPRAA is Governor Antonio Cerilles.

The ZPRAA 2015 is anchored on the theme: “Zampen Go for Unity and Solidarity for Excellence.

DA trains farmers on machinery handling

By INELIN R. CABEGUIN (DA-9)

Some 50 members from different Farmer Associations (FAs) in Zamboanga Peninsula came to attend the recent Technical Briefing on Handling Farm Machinery and Postharvest Facilities conducted by the Department of Agriculture through the Agri- Pinoy Rice Banner Program at Casa Emsa, Tiguma, Pagadian City.

“This is a very timely activity as we need to sustain our Farm Mechanization Program. One way to extend the life of our machines is to have a deeper knowledge on how to maintain them. As our farm technology is advancing, we need to upgrade our knowledge in handling these tools,” Zamboanga del Sur Agricultural Program Coordinator, Mr. Carlito A. Larubis said.

“The Farm Mechanization Program is necessary in attaining our mission to reduce poverty, generate jobs, increase farmers’ income and produce sufficient, accessible and affordable rice for all,” added Mr. Maximino de Jose, District 1 Rice Banner Coordinator.

Engr. Brandon M. Mentolaroc, Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) Science Research Analyst (SRA) presented the technical requirements of operating and maintaining selected agricultural machines for rice, and determine basic operational requirements and scheme in the operation of agricultural machinery for rice as service providers.

The participants were also trained on determining the basic technical and financial requirements of operating selected agricultural machinery for rice as service provider on land preparation, planting, harvesting, drying and milling.

Mr. Tilo Abanil, President of Upper Tiparak Farmer Service Provider was grateful in attending the said activity and said, “this training is very helpful to all of us because we are trained not only to properly handle our machines but also to handle our finances. We hope to acquire and operate additional agricultural machinery to sustain our FAs.”

Pagadian City CSWDO encourages PWDs to register

(PNA), FFC/TPGJR/HDC/EDS

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 18 (PNA) -- The city government has advised all Persons with Disability (PWD) to register with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to avail of the benefits stipulated under the law.

CSWDO head Teresita Roldan made the call as her office has started releasing Wednesday the identification cards (IDs) to PWDs, who have registered last year with her office.

Roldan said there were 239 PWDs who registered last year in her office.

However, Roldan believes there are more PWDs from this city who are not registered in her office.

Roldan said the PWDs are encouraged to register as they cannot avail of the benefits due them if they are not registered with the CSWDO.

She said the benefits includes discounts on medicines and hospitalization and others.

She told the unregistered PWDs, including families with differently-abled members, not to be ashamed to visit her office to register.

“The workers of CSWDO that are very much happy to serve and help them so that they can avail the benefits and privileges mandated by Republic Act 9442,” she added.

1st Cavalry Squadron conducts cleanup drive in Tukuran town

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 17 (PIA) – Instead of celebrating Valentine’s Day with their respective families on Saturday, the officers and men of the 1st Cavalry Squadron, Mechanized Infantry Division, Philippine Army (PA) conducted a cleanup drive in barangay Lower Bayao here to show love for our environment.

Civil-Military Operations Officer Capt. Mae Budlong said the event was part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) or “Bayanihan”. “It also aims to engage all sectors in addressing environmental issues,” she added.

Budlong said the 1st Cavalry Squadron under the leadership of the newly installed battalion commander Lt. Col. Charlemagne Batayola Jr. had conducted the said activity to help protect, preserve and sustain the environment by joining and supporting environmental campaigns.

“These simple acts of community service can very well serve the residents of the barangay,” she stressed.

For her part, Barangay Captain Esnaira Chavez expressed her gratitude that the cleanup drive was held in her barangay.

“Nalipay ako nga kini nga kalihokan gihimo dinhi sa among barangay aron dili lamang malimpyo ang palibot sa among beach kung dili among mahimamat usab ang mga sundalo nga nagpasiugda ning maong kalihokan . Una kini nga higayon nga naay grupo sa mga nagpakabanang tawo nga naghimo ug clean up drive dinhi sa among dapit,” Chavez said.

(I am happy that this activity was held in our barangay not only to make our beach clean but mingle with the soldiers initiating it. This is the first time that a group of dedicated persons conducted a cleanup drive in our place.)

Cadet Colonel Willy Bucol said he participated in the cleanup activity because it is his personal commitment to help the Philippine Army in its environmental preservation and conservation programs.

“Miapil ko sa clean up drive dili tungod kay required kini sa among ROTC Military Science subject apan ako kini nga commitment nga makatabang sa Philippine Army sa ilang environmental preservation and conservation programs (I join the clean up drive not because it is required in our ROTC Military Science subject but it is my commitment to help the Philippine Army in their environmental preservation and conservation programs),” Bucol said.

Bucol led the 19 ROTC cadets in assisting the 1st Cavalry Squadron members in the clean up drive.

The activity is in collaboration with the barangay officials, 1st Field Artillery Battalion, Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) cadets of Western Mindanao University-External Studies Unit (WMSU-ESU).

DTI holds consultative meeting with bakeshop operators

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

PAGADIAN CITY, Feb. 16 (PIA) – Bakeshop and bakery operators, owners and managers in Zambonaga del Sur were summoned by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Friday, Feb. 13, at Guillermo Hotel here to discuss the possibility of bringing down the prices of bread products following the decrease in prices of flour and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in the market.

Provincial Director Ma. Socorro Malate-Atay told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that there was a drop of LPG prices up to P286.51 from January 2014 to January 2015.

On Jan. 27, the Philippine Federation of Bakers Association Inc. (PFBA) agreed to lower their prices by 15 centavos or add two grams to each pandesal.

Atay said she asked them on what actions they have undertaken to give back to their customers without necessarily asking them to lower the prices of their products like “pandesal.”

It was also learned that bakery operators are giving one or two more pieces of pandesal for every 10 pieces bought by their customers due to the lowering of prices of the flour and LPG, respectively.

“Other bakery operators retained the price of pandesal of P1 or P2 each but increased the weight to two grams a piece,” Atay said.

In spite of the decrease in the prices of flour and LPG, Atay explained, the bakery operators have still encountered certain problems like scarcity of supply of baking powder, baking soda and condensed milk especially during Christmas season. “They went as far as Davao City just to buy the ingredients,” Atay said.

Meanwhile, Atay also encouraged the bakery operators to form themselves into an association to represent their group in the society. However, a handful of them came and attended the meeting.

Atay urged the bakery operators to do a “coopetition” rather than competition saying “they are friends, they compete since they are in the same business but they listen and talk to each other about their problems and concerns.”

2 Wanted for Kidnapping Arrested in Lanao Sur; 6 Others Cuffed

By PINSP DAHLAN T SAMUDDIN with report from PO2 Radzben S Jul (RPIO9)

Kapatagan, Lanao Del Sur – Operatives of Aurora Police Station led by Police Senior Inspector Heidel B. Te-elan and IOBC Class 31-2014, in coordination with Kapatagan MPS, arrested two individuals in Barangay Maranding Annex at about 7:45 in the evening of February 10, 2015.

Suspects Jomar Rabaya y Cano, 29, cellophane vendor, and Reneboy Cano y Briones, 22, pedicab driver, both residents of said place, were arrested at their rented house at the aforementioned address by virtue of the arrest warrants for kidnapping with serious illegal detention in relation to RA 7610, docketed under Criminal Case Number 14-10, 1109, with no bail recommended, issued by Presiding Judge Jaime B. Caberte of RTC Branch 30, Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur. The arrested wanted persons were listed as numbers 5 and 6, respectively, of the most wanted persons in Aurora MPS. They are in the custody of Aurora MPS while waiting for the commitment order from the court.

Zamboanga City - A man was arrested during the service of arrest warrant conducted by operatives of Zamboanga Police Station 5 in Daisy Road, Barangay Guiwan at about 8:30 in the morning of February 10, 2015. Suspect Lloyd Calinawan Sto Tomas, 24, a local resident, is charged with Criminal Case No. 51955 for Violation of Sec. 5 in relation to section 13 of RA 6539 (Anti-Carnapping Act of 1972) as amended by RA 7659 issued by Presiding Judge Carlo Martin Alcala, 9th Judicial Region, MTCC, Branch 3, Zamboanga City, with a recommended bail bond of Php 45,000.00. The accused posted the required bail bond for his temporary liberty.

Pagadian City – A man was arrested by operatives of Pagadian City Police Station and IOBC Class 31-2014 in Barangay Sta. Lucia at about 9:30 in the morning of February 10, 2015. Suspect Eduardo S. Orallo VI, 36, of Consolacion St., Tagayunan Compound, Barangay Balangasan, was arrested by virtue of warrant docketed under Criminal Case Number 18765 issued on January 21, 2015 for Violation RA 9262, with bail bond fixed at Php 80,000.00, issued by Presiding Judge Eduardo S Casals of Regional Trial Court, 10th Judicial Region Branch 1, Butuan City. Suspect is temporarily detained at Pagadian City detention cell while waiting for final adjudication from court.

Pagadian City - Elements of Pagadian City Police Station and IOBC Class 31-2014 conducted a joint manhunt operation in Vitalea Highland Homes Barangay Manga at about 10:00 AM on February 10, 2015. This resulted in the arrest of Albine Dave Jubilado Y Villanueva, 38, by virtue of warrant for libel docketed under Criminal Case No. R-QZN-14-10983-CR dated November 6, 2014 issued by Presiding Judge Tita Marilyn Payoyo-Villordon of Regional Trial Court, National Capital Region Branch 224, Quezon City. The bail bond recommended is fixed at Php 10,000.00. Suspect is temporarily detained at said police station while waiting for final adjudication from court.

Siayan, Zamboanga Del Norte – A farmer was arrested during a manhunt police operation conducted by elements of Siayan Police Station and IOBC Class 31-2014 in Sitio Labaloran, Barangay Gunyan at about 11:45 AM on February 10, 2015. Police Inspector Nicanor C. Bautista – Siayan Police Chief, identified the arrested person as Ensoy Gandipon y Onga, 28, resident of said place. Gandipon was arrested by virtue of warrant for robbery docketed under Criminal Case Number S-4987, with bail bond of Php 24,000.00, issued by Presiding Judge Reymar L. Lacaya of RTC 9th Judicial Region, Branch 11, Sindangan, ZDN. Suspect is temporarily detained at Siayan MPS for proper disposition.

Polanco, Zamboanga Del Norte – A man wanted for homicide was arrested by the operatives of Polanco Police Station and IOBC Class 31-2014 led by Police Chief Inspector Hadjiri J. Langgal in Barangay Dansulan at about 1:35 PM of February 10, 2015. Suspect Eugene Gallo, 30, resident of said place, was arrested by virtue of a warrant for homicide docketed under Criminal Case No. 19424, with recommended bail bond fixed at ₱40,000.00, issued by Presiding Judge Cherry Joy C Concha-Ageas of RTC Branch 10, Dipolog City dated February 6, 2015. Suspect is temporarily detained at Polanco MPS detention cell for proper disposition.

Pagadian City, Zamboanga Del Sur – A government employee was arrested by operatives of Pagadian City Police Station and IOBC Class 31-2014 in Barangay Macasing at about 9:30 AM of February 10, 2015. Suspect Antonio Gon Rogador, 47, resident of said place, was arrested by virtue of warrant for estafa docketed under Criminal Case No. 11889-2015, with recommended bail bond amounting to Php 24,000.00, issued by Presiding Judge Rolando L Goan of Regional Trial Court, 9th Judicial, Branch 21, Pagadian City dated February 3, 2015. Suspect is temporarily detained at Pagadian City Police Station while waiting for final adjudication from court.

1st Cavalry Squadron holds gift giving for poor residents of Tukuran town

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 13 (PIA) – Poor residents of Barangay Manlayag have received food packs, used clothing and slippers from the 1st Cavalry Squadron, Mechanized Division, Philippine Army (PA) in a gift giving recently.

Dubbed “Love Drive Program,” the gift giving was held in coordination with the 1st Field Artillery Battalion aimed at bringing the government closer to the people.

The 1st Cavalry Squadron executive officer Major Francis Balan said the team with its sponsor, Nancy Sanchez of Zamboanga City, distributed 100 food packs containing 3 kilos of rice, 2 cans of sardines, 2 packs of noodles, sachets of coffee and used clothing to selected poor families.

Two hundred new pairs of slippers, candies and supplemental feeding were also given to children.

“Ang ating mga kasundaluhan at civic organization ay nagtulong-tulong na ma-share ang basic services sa mga maralitang tao upang makapagbigay sa kanila ng kaligayahan,” Balan said.

(The troopers and civic organization have extended help to the poor to make them happy.)

“Ang mga natanggap ninyo ngayon ay initial pa pa lamang yan dahil ang aking kaibigan na US philatropist ay personal po na magpunta rito sa inyo sa buwan ng Marso at magbibigay na naman ng karagdagang gifts na tiyak na ikakaligaya naman ninyo,” Sanchez told the recipients.

(What you have received now is just an initial one because my friend, a US philanthropist, will personally visit here in March and will give additional goods for you.)

Sanchez said: “Manlayag is just one of the recipient-barangays that received gifts from her friend in Mindanao and Visayas next to Iligan City and Palo, Leyte, respectively.”

Punong Barangay Cerelo Halang expressed his gratitude to the 1st Cavalry Squadron for spearheading the gift giving activity saying, “It is the first time we have received such a program.”

Cyndi Baguio, 38, said she was thankful for receiving the food packs.

“Nagpasalamat ko ug dako nga nakadawat ko aning food packs gikan sa mga nagpasiugda. Medyo lisod gyud mi sa pagpangita sa among pagkaon tungod kay ang akong bana wala nay trabaho ug nagsalig lamang kami sa pagtanom ug kamunting kahoy,” Baguio said while holding an infant baby in her arms.

(I am very grateful to have received the food packs from the organizers. It is really hard for us to find food since my husband has no job. We just depend on planting cassava.)

“Malipayon ako nga usa sa mga nakadawat ning maong mga pagkaon gikan sa 1st Cavalry. Nakatabang ni namo tungod kay kami na lang duha sa akong ang mga tawo nag-uban sa balay. Ang akong napulo ka mga anak pulos minyo na ug mibulag na sa amoa. wala nay motabang mo pagpangita sa among pagkaon,” Eleuterio Luardo, 78, said after receiving the food packs.

(I am happy to receive this food pack from the 1st Cavalry. It really helped us because only the two of us are left in our home. All our 10 children already got married and they are living separately. Nobody would help us in our food.)

The 1st Cavalry troopers also held a comedy show during the said activity to the delight of the children.

It is our duty to support the peace process, says Tabak chief

By Gideon C. Corgue (FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 12 (PIA) – Tabak division commander BGen. Berardo Barrientos Jr. has reminded the soldiers that it is their duty to support the peace process pursued by the national government.

Speaking during the 65th founding anniversary of 5th Infantry (Duty Bound) Battalion on Wednesday at Kuta Major Cesar Sang-an, Barangay Pulacan in this municipality, Barrientos said a peace negotiation between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) had started years ago that resulted in the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro on March 27, 2014.

But the peace process has recently been be stalled following the unfortunate and tragic incident in Mamasapano town in Maguindanao where 44 elite members of the Special Action Force (SAF) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) were slain in a clash with members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Barrrientos, however, said that sustainable peace could only be achieved through reconciliation and peace negotiation with the MILF amid “immense sacrifices, difficulties and challenges experienced by the soldiers.”

Barrientos added the government has constant meetings and dialogues with different MILF organizations in the division’s area of responsibility for quite sometime and that it did not “have specific engagement with the rebel group.”

“The conduct of series of meetings and dialogues is a manifestation of our support to the national reconciliation efforts,” Barrientos announced.

He said “if the civilians dream of a peaceful resolution to armed conflict, more so are the soldiers.” Every Filipino dreams of a lasting peace, the Tabak commander explained, as he urged the civilians to actively support the government’s reconciliation efforts.

Barrientos expressed optimism that the creation of the board inquiry into the Mamasapano bloody incident would pave the way for the solution to the imperiled peace talks with Moro rebels.

Meanwhile, Barrientos observed that in the 1st Infantry division there is a a strong coordination between and among the local police force, the military and other law enforcement agencies particularly in the implementation of Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) or “Bayanihan” campaign.

“The AFP and PNP forces have good relations here. We hope that this will be sustained through engagement and team building activities,” Barrientos proudly said.

Pagadian celebrates ‘World Interfaith Harmony Week’

By Claro A. Lanipa (FPG/CAL/PIA9)

PAGADIAN CITY, Feb. 11 (PIA) – Eighty values and Araling Panlipunan elementary and high school teachers have participated in a forum held on Feb. 5 at the Teachers’ Center at San Jose district here by the Movement for the Restoration of Discipline (MRDP) in partnership with the Interfaith Forum Solidarity for Peace (IFSP) during the World Interfaith Harmony Week celebration last week.

Republic Act No. 10525 signed by President Benigno S. Aquino III on April 23, 2013 declared the first week of February of each year as World Interfaith Harmony Week in the entire country, calling on the different government agencies and instrumentalities including government-owned and controlled corporations as well as local government units to carry out the observance of activities designed to advance the message of interfaith harmony and goodwill in accordance with religious traditions and practices.

Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 served as one of the resource speakers in the said forum. She emphasized that “communication is a vital element in building a strong republic, thus, the Philippine government operates an agency tasked with responding to the information needs of the citizenry.”

Edaga said “PIA’s vision is to see to it that the citizenry will be well-informed, able to understand, discuss and vote on vital issues toward lasting peace and development.”

“PIA is primarily tasked to provide people with adequate information to help them make better decisions and identify opportunities that could improve their quality of life,” Director Edaga said.

This year’s theme was “Strengthening Love for God and Love for One Another: A Celebration of Hope for Life, Peace and Solidarity.”


Army artillery regiment to recruit soldiers

(FPG/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

PAGADIAN CITY, Feb. 10 (PIA) – The Army Artillery Regiment (AAR) under the leadership of Brigadier General Leandro Loyao III is now accepting applicants who would like to join the military service.

Major Christopher Onuendo, executive officer of the 1st Cavalry Squadron Batallion, Mechanized Infantry Division said in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that the unit was tasked to recruit candidates in its area of responsibility (AOR) to fill up the quota for calendar year 2015.

Onuendo added that the candidates should possess the following basic qualifications such as natural born Filipino citizen, at least 18-26 years old and must not be 27 years old or older on or before the date of appointment as candidate soldier, single and never been married, of good moral character, at least 5’ or 60 inches tall, must have passed the Philippine Army Aptitude Test Battery (PAATB) with a score of a least 80, must have passed the AAR pre-qualifying examination and physically and mentally fit for military training.

Other qualifications set are as follows: professionals (doctors, teachers, engineers, etc.); Graduate of MS43 and advanced ROTC; College graduate; with 72 units in college; high school graduate but possessed technical and/or vocational skills needed by the AFP such as: automotive mechanic, embalmer, electrician, carpentry, masonry, welding, driving and etc), technical and vocational skills shall be supported by a certification from the employer of at least one year work experience not including the On-the-job-training.

Onuendo announced that the registration/pre-admission started on the 2nd week of January and will end on February 10.

Onuendo said a pre-qualifying exam would be conducted to the CS applicants on February 17, 2015 at 1pm at the headquarters 1st Field Artillery Battalion, Kuta Major Cesar Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan.

“The pre-qualifying exam will be a 100 item math heavy exam (basic high school mathematics): 75 items will be devoted for mathematical examination and the 25 items will be for indicative or analytical exam,” he explained.

“The examinees are allotted only two hours to answer the test questions,” he added.

In consonance with the Philippine Army’s vision of becoming a world-class army that is a source of national price, Onuendo said it seeks to recruit new breed of soldiers, choosing the “best and brightest” among aspiring applicants.

“The Artillery Army Regiment (AAR) Recruitment Board will select the best and brightest among aspiring applicants,” he explained.

Those who will be absorbed in the AAR will enjoy the benefits and privileges such as: stable job, high pay and allowances, local and foreign schoolings, and will get a chance to serve the country and fellowmen, he concluded.

SSS launches E-AlkanSSSya program in Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur

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

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Feb. 9 (PNA) -- The Social Security System (SSS) has launched Monday its E-AlkanSSSya program in Tigbao municipality, Zamboanga del Sur.

Napoleon Rabanal II, SSS-Western Mindanao Senior Communication Analyst, said the E-AlkanSSSya program will cover 40 job order and contractual workers of Tigbao town.

Tigbao, which comprises of 18 barangays, is a fifth class municipality in Zamboanga de Sur with a population of 19,300 according to the 2010 census on population.

Rabanal said the E-AlkanSSSya is a micro-savings program of the SSS, which provides social security protection to government contractual and job order workers.

Rabanal said the monthly premiums will be collected through salary deduction by the administrative officer, who in turn will remit to the SSS.

He said the launching of the E-AlkanSSSya program in municipality of Tigbao is the fifth in the province of Zamboanga del Sur.

He said they have launched earlier the E-AlkanSSSya program in the municipalities of Aurora, Margosatubig, Ramon Magsaysay and Mahayag.

Aside from the E-AlkanSSSya, the SSS also has the AlkanSSSya, which is a micro-savings program designed for the self-employed and informal sector workers, who wish to enroll with the insurance system of the government.

High target in land distribution set

By Bong Garcia

THE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) announced that this year's distribution of land to Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in Zamboanga Peninsula will be higher by 3,385 hectares compared to that distributed in 2014.

DAR-Zamboanga Peninsula Director Julita Ragandang said they have set a target of 5,940 hectares of land to be distributed to ARBs in the region this year.

Ragandang said they distributed last year 2,555 hectares of land to 2,416 ARBs, and so far, they have identified 4,212 ARBs this year.

"This (land distribution) is really the major program that we are undertaking every year. We are pursuing to distribute to the farmer beneficiaries at the different barangays region wide," she said.

Ragandang said the largest area of land they will distribute this year is in Zamboanga del Norte, citing 2,741 of the 5,940 hectares will be distributed to the ARBs in the province.

She added that 1,605 hectares will be distributed to the ARBs in Zamboanga Sibugay and the remaining 1,594 in Zamboanga del Sur.

DTI launches ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’ in Zamboanga del Sur

(PNA), LAM/TPGJR/HDCADION/PJN

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 7 (PNA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is distributing 52 weighing scales to the different public markets in this city and 26 towns in this province.

Raymund Peña, DTI consumer division chief, said the distribution of the weighing scales with steel enclosures is in line with the agency’s launching “Timbangan ng Bayan” program in this province.

Peña said the first batch comprising of five municipalities received weighing scales on Thursday following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).

These are the towns of Bayog, Dumalinao and Kumalarang that received two weighing scales each and Lakewood and Tigbao one each.

Peña said the other towns will either receive two weighing scales each or one each.

He said this city is set to receive five weighing scales. Four will be installed at the Agora Market and one at the Bagsakan Center.

He said they will also install Price Watch Board for Basic Commodities at the public markets.

He encourage consumers to report to them any violation by unscrupulous businessmen.

Fallen SAF from Zamboanga del Sur laid to rest

(PNA), FFC/TPGJR/HDC/EDS

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 6 (PNA) -- One of the three Special Action Force (SAF) policemen who are natives of this province was laid to rest Thursday afternoon.

The remains of Insp. Rennie Tayrus was laid to rest at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Memorial Garden in this city with full honors.

Tayrus, a native of the nearby Dumalinao town, was one of the 44 SAF police who died in the January 25 “misencounter” with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members in Barangay Tukanalipao, Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

Tayrus belonged to the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Class of 2011.

The other two fallen SAF policemen were PNPA Class of 2009 graduate Senior Insp. Garry Erana, also of Dumalinao town and Police Officer 3 (PO3) Virgel Villanueva of San Pablo municipality.

Dumalinao Mayor Ace William Cerilles said the death of Tayrus and Erana is a great loss for his municipality.

The Sangguniang Bayan of Dumalinao has declared Tayrus and Erana as “Heroes of Dumalinao” through resolution as well as allocated Php100,000 financial assistance to the two fallen officers.

The 29-member of the PNPA Alumni Association-Zamboanga del Sur chapter have shaved their heads as a show of sympathy to the bereaved families and mourning the death of their slain comrades.

The relatives and friends of Tayrus called for justice to the death of the SAF policemen.

Meanwhile, the remains of Erana and Villanueva are set to be laid to rest tomorrow, Saturday.

Erana will be buried beside the grave of Tayrus while Villanueva will be laid to rest in his hometown of San Pablo.

Dumalinao town folks unite, pray for swift justice for fallen heroes

(FPG/ALT-PIA9/Zamboanga Sibugay)

DUMALINAO, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 5 (PIA) - - “This is a heart-rending incident that affects all Dumalinaoans,” Mayor Ace William E. Cerilles said after a special mass for the two fallen SAF heroes, PSI John Garry A. Erana and PI Rennie Tayrus, held at the municipal hall ground last Jan. 30.

“They are a great loss to the people of Dumalinao. They could have been future generals, PNP chief or occupy high positions in government,” Cerilles, holding back tears said after the mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Lukas Hadi Siswo Sasmito and Fr. Nestor Remasog.

The support of local officials, LGU employees, academe, PNP, religious sector and concerned citizens was overwhelming with the huge crowd that gathered in front of the municipal hall.

“We share the pain of the families of our slain heroes. We need to know the truth. What really happened? All we want is justice for the 44 fallen heroes in the Mamasapano encounter. So we could say that they did not die in vain,” the young mayor was quoted as saying.

Cerilles added: “I know very soon, the truth will come out, and justice will be served. I do hope and pray that the national government and President Benigno S. Aquino III will look into it and speed up the investigation.”

Cerilles said the municipal council had passed a resolution recognizing PSI Erana and PI Tayrus as heroes, including financial assistance of P50,000 each for their families.

PSI Erana’s remains arrived Saturday with a huge crowd joining the convoy from Pagadian City Airport to his residence in Barangay Paglaum, Dumalinao while PI Rennie Tayrus and SPO3 Virgel S. Villanueva of San Pablo town arrived Sunday.

“I assure the victims’ families that we will do our best to help. Let us all pray for the bereaved families. We are one with you in this time of grief, and may God comfort you in your deepest sorrow,” said Cerilles.

Consumers to expect lower prices of goods by March

(FPG/PIA9)

PAGADIAN CITY, Feb. 4 (PIA) – Certain manufacturers have vowed to either decrease the prices or increase the weight of their goods following the decrease in prices of petroleum products.

In a press conference held at the provincial office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here this morning, Provincial Director Maria Socorro Malate-Atay disclosed that some companies and manufacturers are likely to decrease the suggested retail prices (SRPs) of their products effective March 1.

Director Atay, however, clarified that the reduction of prices applies mainly to products classified as basic and prime commodities. She cited as example that not all milk products are under the basic need category.

Nestle Philippines Senior Vice President Edith de Leon has informed the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) that the company is going to decrease the SRP of its most saleable milk product, Bear Brand powdered milk in 150 grams, from P51 to P50 starting March 1.

Moreover, based on the monthly price monitoring report released by DTI-Zamboanga del Sur, it showed that most retailers in Pagadian City followed the SRP set by the manufacturers/companies.

Atay also planned to send for bakery owners in the city to discuss the possible lowering of prices of bread products.

As regards the prices of petroleum products, Atay told the press that the agency tasked with monitoring/regulating them is the Department of Energy (DOE). Unfortunately, the DOE has no personnel based in each province. But, she said, her office is monitoring the prices of petroleum products to keep track of the price levels and supply.

Pagadian City receives “high” satisfactory rating in CSIS

(FPG/CAL/PIA9/DILG-9)

PAGADIAN CITY, Feb. 3 (PIA) – The city government here has received a high satisfactory rating in the Citizen Satisfaction Index System (CSIS) survey recently conducted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in partnership with Saint Columban College (SCC), DILG’s partner local resource institute.

DILG-9 Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil said “the CSIS is part of the department’s initiative in helping the local government units to improve the delivery of programs and services in terms of availment, awareness, assessment and importance.

“CSIS is the ultimate measure of how well, how far, and how effective our efforts as an institution primarily responsible in addressing clients needs,” he said.

“To the City of Pagadian, let us continue to innovate and find ways to be able to provide the best possible services to the people we are all bound to serve,” Dir. Abutazil underscored.

Based on the survey result presented by CSIS focal person Russell Castaneda from the Bureau of Local Government Supervision (BLGS), Pagadian City’s average score in terms of citizen’s satisfaction is 63.06 percent, which means that citizen’s satisfaction with the LGU’s program and services is high.

The result further shows that the respondents were highly satisfied with the LGU’s programs and services on health, education, environmental management, social welfare, tourism management and agricultural support services.

On the level of awareness on LGU’s program and services, the city got 42.19 percent which means fair. It reveals that respondents were least aware on the program and services on tourism promotion and agricultural support.

While on the importance of these services, the city received a net score of 72.17 percent showing that citizens perceived the LGU’s programs and services to be important, centering mostly on health and environmental promotion services.

In response, City Mayor Romeo Pulmones committed to see interventions to address areas where they were rated low.

He was also thankful that DILG had come up with an initiative of helping the city improve insofar as far the local government management is concerned and in terms of strategic planning and preparation for its future plans and decision-making that is research-based and anchored on the viewpoints and demands of the community.

About 150 respondents were asked to rate the overall services and programs of the city through face-to-face interview and multi-probability selection to generate citizen’s assessment on the city’s performance.

Priest to families of slain SAF officers: Keep calm, pursue path of justice

(GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)

DUMALINAO, Zamboanga del Sur, Feb. 2 (PIA) – Rev. Fr. Nestor Remasog appealed to the public to keep calm, humbly pursue the path of justice and work for peace.

In a requiem mass offered for the slain special Action Force (SAF) members PSI Garry Erana and PI Rennie Tayrus on Friday afternoon at the grounds of the municipal hall here, Fr. Remasog in his homily said “crying for justice is crucial for the families of the slain victims but [let us not] forget our Christian faith.”

Mayor Ace William Cerilles together with municipal officials and employees, barangay officials, teachers, students, religious leaders and others attended the mass. They wore black T-shirts, brought flowers and lighted candles as a show of sympathy to the victims’ families.

Fr. Remasog, a native of this town: “If we work for justice, we will also work for peace because peace and justice are two inseparable concepts, and are two of the most cherished aspirations of humankind.”

“If we do not know how to control our anger and will take revenge on the perpetrators, it will be another reason for war,” Remasog added.

The priest hoped that the incident in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, which killed at least 44 SAF members would not derail “our pursuit of peace especially the ongoing peace process between the Philippine Government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).”

He also encouraged the public to show “our life of faith as Christians to shine brightly despite the crisis that we are facing today.”

Meanwhile, Mayor Ace William Cerilles said the death of our police officers –Erana and Tayrus – “is a great loss to our country” adding “our people here regarded these bright and humble fallen officers as our future police officers; Erana could have been our future general."

Cerilles expressed his hope that President Benigno Simeon Aquino III would take immediate and necessary actions on the problem.

“I hope that President PNoy will help the family of our fallen heroes to attain justice,” Cerilles said referring to conduct of investigation of the liability of the officers who led the SAF operation and the criminal liability of perpetrators.

Pagadian City gets high survey rate

By Bong Garcia

THE City Government of Pagadian has received a high satisfactory rating in Citizen Satisfaction Index System (CSIS) survey.

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Director Paisal Abutazil said the CSIS survey is part of the agency's initiative in helping the local government unit (LGU) improve the delivery of services in terms of availment, awareness, assessment and importance of the program of local government services delivery performance.

"CSIS is the ultimate measure of how well, how far, and how effective our efforts as institutions primarily responsible for addressing client needs. To the City of Pagadian, let us continue to innovate and find ways to be able to provide the best possible service to the people we are all bound to serve," Abutazil said.

CSIS focal person Russel Castañeda, of the Bureau of Local Government Supervision, presented the survey result Friday to the local government officials and the presentation was also witnessed by members of the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and local resource institute.

Castañeda said that based on the survey result, Pagadian has an average score of 63.06 percent in terms of citizen's satisfaction, which means the public is highly satisfied with the programs and services of the local government.

The result further showed the respondents were highly satisfied with most of the LGU's programs/services on health services support to education, environmental management, social welfare services, tourism management and agricultural support services.

However, the 42.19 percent result on awareness shows that the citizen's awareness of LGU's programs and services is fair.

The result revealed that the respondents were least aware on the programs and services under Tourism promotion and agricultural support services.

In terms of importance, Castañeda said the city received a net score of 72.17 percent, showing that citizens perceived the LGUs programs and services important.

About 150 respondents were asked to rate the overall services of Pagadian City through face-to-face interview and multi-probability selection, which generates citizen's assessment on their perception of the services and programs of the city on the areas of health services, support to education, environmental management, social welfare services, governance and response, public works and infrastructure, tourism promotion, and agricultural support services.

The survey was conducted by the DILG in partnership with Saint Columban College as the agency's partner local resource institute.

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