CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 28 (PIA) — Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz expressed utmost gratitude to President Benigno S. Aquino III, following the release of the additional P168.1 million budget for the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) program.
Baldoz was on a 2-day visit, here, recently to meet with the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) officials and beneficiaries of the Integrated Livelihood Project of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and deliver the keynote address of the 1st Regional Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment Summit held at the Pearlmont Hotel.
Released by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the additional budget for the SPES program of DOLE will benefit an additional 52,000 poor but deserving students up to December 31, 2011, nationwide.
“I am very thankful to the President for the release of more money for this very important work appreciation program for poor, but deserving Filipino students. The additional money will go a long way in enabling SPES beneficiaries to earn tuition money for their college education,” said Baldoz.
She recalled that in President Aquino’s Labor Day 2011 speech, he promised the increase in the SPES budget, saying poor but industrious students who face the prospect of not being able to enroll in college due to lack of funds deserve government assistance.
He also promised to continue increasing the budget for the SPES program in 2012 as prescribed under the SPES law.
The Labor Secretary said that DOLE-Regional Office No. 10 will get a share of Php13 million from the increase, bringing the total 2011 SPES budget for Northern Mindanao to Php19 million.
Meanwhile, Atty. Allan Macaraya, Regional Director of DOLE-10, who hosted Secretary Baldoz, said the additional SPES budget for his region will benefit more than 7,000 students. “This is very good news for Northern Mindanao,” he said.
The additional budget of P168.1 million will bring the total budget for the SPES program for 2011 to Php350.282 million, benefitting an estimated 136,000 students, nationwide.
In view of the release of the additional fund for the SPES, Baldoz directed all DOLE regional directors to plan for its immediate implementation starting September until December 2011, as the validity of the allotment is only till the end of the year.
Mandated under Republic Act No. 7323, the SPES program helps poor but deserving students pursue their education by encouraging their employment during summer and/or Christmas vacations.
SPES beneficiaries are paid by employers sixty percent (60%) of their salaries or wages and forty percent (40%) through education vouchers paid by the government. The program is open to all qualified high school, college, technology or vocational students or drop-outs and interested employers. (DOLE/PIA-10)
GP3 urges government, business sectors to go "Green"
By: Gelo Udaundo,
MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon, Aug. 28 (PIA) – Former Congressman Nereus O. Acosta, here, has called on the government and business sectors to help develop a green environment to address the climate change challenge.
He sounded the call during a conference of the Green Purchasing, Green Productivity, towards a Green Philippines (GP3) with the theme “Facing Climate Change and Achieving Sustainable Growth.”
Acosta, who is the Chairperson of the GP3 Convener Committee, said the country needs "the consciousness of a Green Philippines" and invited stakeholders to "find ways to live a green life."
Consumers are the biggest problem and the main solution on this movement and local government units are urged to support entrepreneurs who are at the center for a green strategy, he pointed out.
"We need political will to continuously collaborate efforts of the public and private sector on how to inculcate this movement", he added.
Acosta, who chaired the Committee on Ecology, when he was Congressman of the First District of Bukidnon, pointed out that the two main factors for the success of a green economy is sustainability and localization.
“One can't legislate economic and social behavior, but one can legislate policies to prevent the economic behavior,” he noted.
Acosta shared that based on a recent study, about 262 million people are already affected by climate change-related matters, while another 1.8 billion is expected to suffer from water shortage in 2025 in Asia and Africa.
The study further proved that with a "green" economy, there can be higher gross domestic product, reduced poverty, more jobs, enhanced social equity and better quality of growth than a "brown" economy.
Integrated in the GP3 conference is the international initiative programs for a green economy. Examples are EU switch Asia programs which highlight business potentials through sustainable consumption and production in Asia, initiated by Green Philippine Islands of Sustainability (GPIS), Zero Carbon Resort and SMART Cebu Project.
The GPIS is a project that aims to contribute to an improved environmental and sustainable industrial development of Metro Manila and CALABARZON, by reducing the pollution level and by increasing resource efficiency in specific companies.
On the other hand, Zero Carbon Resort project seeks to enable tourism small and medium enterprises (SMEs), such as, hotels and resorts, to provide their energy services in an efficient, cost effective, and environmentally sound way.
The project applies the 3R strategy: Reduce-Replace-Redesign. A showcase "Zero Carbon Cottage" will be built in Palawan, which will operate using solar- and biomass-based energy generation systems.
Finally, SMART Cebu is a project implemented by a consortium of European and Philippine organizations in Cebu that is aimed at increasing the competitiveness of SMEs engaged in the home and lifestyle sectors in Cebu by promoting clean production, development of eco-friendly products and entering the green markets in Europe and Asia.
Meanwhile, another program called Resource Efficiency and Cleaner Production (RECP) is also consistent with the thrust to boost Philippine competitiveness as it focuses on greening existing jobs in critical sectors, such as, food production and manufacturing.
At the same time, it also promotes new employment in green sectors, such as, renewable energy and energy efficiency. These programs target MSMEs for environmental adaptability, responsibility and transparency. (PhilExport-10A/PIA-10)
It’s all systems go for Lanao Norte – Malaybalay goodwill games
By: Vincent N. Labial
TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Aug. 28 (PIA) – More than 200 government employees are set to see action this coming Sept. 2-4, for the anticipated Lanao del Norte-Malaybalay City Goodwill Games to be held at the sprawling Mindanao Civic Center (MCC), here.
The athletes will be competing in five (5) sporting events, namely: basketball (men) and volleyball, lawn tennis, table tennis, and badminton (men and women).
“The goodwill games is conceived not only to promote a healthy lifestyle among government employees but also to showcase to our neighboring cities and provinces that Lanao del Norte is a peaceful and progressive province,” (Provincial Information Officer Lyndon Calica said.
The 3-day competition will be the elimination round with the top two (2) teams in each sporting discipline advancing to the finals which will be played in Malaybalay City on a later date.
“Everything is now all set for the goodwill games. Our employees are excited to play with our counterparts from Malaybalay City”, Provincial Sports Coordinator Nelson Lasola expressed.
Each contingent will be led by their chief executive, Governor Khalid Dimaporo for Lanao del Norte and Mayor Ignacio Zubiri for Malaybalay City.
Gov. Dimaporo is scheduled to host a welcome dinner on the first day of the games.
Meanwhile, the provincial government will also be launching its Inter-Color Competition on Sept. 9, for the rest of the provincial employees.
Nine (9) teams will be competing in the competition which will run until December of this year.
The public is encouraged to witness the upcoming games at the MCC Sports Complex. Admission to the sporting venues is free, Calica added. (PIO/PIA-10)
Cong. Dimaporo supports KALAHI-CIDSS
By: Noemi Marla C. Cinco
TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Aug. 28 (PIA) – Congresswoman Imelda Q. Dimaporo of Lanao del Norte District 1 showed her support for the Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirpan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) Project during the mass inauguration of its 10 sub-projects in the municipality of Bacolod, last August 12.
Cong. Dimaporo also congratulated the volunteers for their efforts and hard work in addressing the needs of their community, even as she appreciated the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for its continuous help to the poor communities of the province through the KALAHI-CIDSS.
“I am hoping that KALAHI-CIDSS would also cover other towns in Lanao del Norte, such as, Maigo, Kulambogan and Tubod, so that those areas will also experience the process of KALAHI-CIDSS and empower more people,” Cong. Dimaporo said.
These projects amounted to Php10.4 million, of which Php8.0 million was covered by a grant from KALAHI-CIDSS while Php2.4 million was from the Local Counterpart Contribution of the Provincial Government through Gov. Khalid Dimaporo and the Municipality of Bacolod headed by Mayor Joselito Miquiabas.
Likewise, nine (9) of these are apart of the KALAHI-CIDSS grant, while one (1) project was purely a Local Government Unit (LGU) funded project using the principles and practices of KALAHI-CIDSS.
These 10 sub-projects which include classrooms, day care centers, Level II water systems and road concreting are now enjoyed by the people in Barangays Alegria, Babalaya, Delabayan West, Demologan, Liangan East, Kahayag, Mate, Minaulon, Pagayawan and Binuni, all of Bacolod.
Happy of the completion of the projects, the volunteers even composed a jingle and performed it during the program, to show their gratitude to KALAHI-CIDSS Makamasang Tugon and to the Provincial and Municipal LGU’s.
KALAHI-CIDSS is a community-driven development projects that aims to empower communities, improve local governance and reduce poverty by providing seed funds for infrastructure projects funded by World Bank (WB).
The project is designed to encourage participation, promote transparency and accountability in its implementations to fully address the need of the people and eradicate the cases of corruption.
Meanwhile, Bacolod Mayor Miquiabas expressed his intent to once again avail of another round of Makamasang Tugon.
He said that he wants to be one with his Barangay Chairmen, who are all still eager to implement the project to further help their constituents, even after successfully implementing three (3) cylces of KALAHI-CIDSS and two (2) cycles of Makamasang Tugon.
Present during the event were DSWD Assistant Regional Director and KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Project Manager Aldersey Mumar Dela Cruz and the Monitoring and Technical Assistant for Mindanao Consuleo Acosta, who represented the National Project Management Office. (DSWD/PIA-10)
Solon files proposed law requiring CCTV in all overpasses in Cag. de Oro
by Lorebeth C. Requiroso
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 28 (PIA) -- Noting reports that petty crimes are being committed in some overpasses in the city, Kagawad Ian Mark Nacaya of the Sangguniang Panglungsod filed a proposed ordinance that will secure the public and provide measures against crimes in these areas.
Nacaya’s proposed legislation mandates the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in private and city-owned pedestrian overpasses in the city.
The CCTVS, which will be strategically located at both entrances and integrated to the video surveillance system of the city, should conform with the minimum technical standards prescribed under Ordinance No. 11075- 2008, otherwise known as the CCTV installation ordinance.
Nacaya chairs the City Council committee on police, fire and public safety.
To ensure that the overpasses will not be used for criminal activities, it also provides that all pedestrian overpasses shall be provided with gates in both entrances which shall be closed and padlocked at 9:00 p.m. and opened at 5:00 a.m.
If approved, it will be the responsibility of the police precinct commander or his designate to provide the padlock and to close and open the pedestrian overpass within the precinct’s area of responsibility (AOR).
The proposedlaw also prohibits the installation of billboards, advertisements and the like within one meter opening from the top of the pedestal of the pedestrian overpass.
This will be reviewed by the committee on police, fire and public safety during its next meeting. (LCR/PIA-10)
Aug. 27 is “Araw Ng Kabus” in Cag. de Oro
by Lorebeth C. Requiroso
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 28 (PIA) – The city has designated, yesterday, Aug. 27, as “Araw ng Kabus” (Day of the Poor).
“Kagay-anons” were given the chance to watch the movie of their choice with only half the cost of admission rates.
Ordinance 8881-2003, which was enacted in 2003, grants movie houses exemption from payment of the amusement tax due them for the said day only, provided they will reduce their admission rates or undertake a “buy one take one for free” promo.
It was also on this day that the anti-climax of the city fiesta in honor of St. Augustine was celebrated with much fun fare with the 5th Golden Float Parade and Drum and Bugle competition. (CIO/PIA-10)
Iligan LCC warns public of substandard plywood sold in the market
by Melvin T. Anggot/Virgilio C. Garcia
ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, Aug. 28 (PIA) -- The Local Price Coordinating Council (LCC) of the city is warning the consuming public to watch out for smuggled Chinese plywood that could possibly be sold by construction dealers, here.
Based on information disclosed by the Philippine Wood Producers Association (PWPA), the plywood is substandard and not durable compared to plywood made from falcatta wood in Mindanao.
These products did not pass the quality test of the Department of Trade and Industry – Bureau of Product Standards (DTI-BPS) as these has only a thickness of 5mm.
The substandard plywood can be identified because the grains are rough and fibrous and cheaper by Php15, each, compared to genuine plywood. (CIO/PIA-10)
DOTC has given go signal for continuation of Laguindingan Airport work
by Melvin T. Anggot/Virgilio C. Garcia
ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, Aug. 28 (PIA) -- Mayor Lawrence Ll. Cruz was elated to announce that the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has given the go signal for the continuation of work in all aspects of the Laguindingan Airport in Laguindingan town, Misamis Oriental.
Cruz, who is the Chairperson of the Regional Development Council, region 10 (RDC-X) 10 said this development is the result of the meeting of undersecretaries and technical staff of DOTC with Secretary Mar Roxas, last week.
As can be recalled, work on the Laguindingan Airport was temporarily suspended by DOTC, the project being under their agency for the purpose of checking on the status of the project.
Mayor Cruz said DOTC directed that the project be given priority, especially, in the procurement of aviation facilities for the safety and convenience of people that will use the airport.
Because of this, RDC-X is negotiating with a supplier of the needed facilities that has proven technology.
He also admitted that the completion of the project will experience a delay of about eight (8) months from its target completion date of April 2012.
As of press time, work on the Laguindingan Airport is 85% complete, Mayor Cruz said.
The Chairman of RDC-X, in his visit to DOTC, was accompanied by Governor Oscar Moreno of Misamis Oriental, Representative Rufus Rodriguez of Cagayan de Oro City’s 2nd District and Engr. Leon Dacanay, Regional Director of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and several personnel of the regional technical staff. (CIO/PIA-10)
Bulua Public Market is fruits, vegetable landing area for West Cag. de Oro
by Lorebeth C. Requiroso
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 28 (PIA) – The Bulua Public Market has been designated the fruit and vegetable landing area for the western part of Cagayan de Oro City.
The 16th City Council during its regular session presided over by Vice Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas adopted Ordinance No. 12104-2011 designating the market as such.
Sangguniang Panglungsod Kagawad (SP Councilor) Emmanuel Abejuela, Chairperson of the Committee on Economic Enterprises, said this will make it easier for farmers to transport their goods especially with the ongoing construction of the coastal highway.
Aside from this, the move will generate income for the Bulua Terminal and Public Market, he added.
The ordinance requires all public utility vehicles (PUV) and cargo trucks loaded with fruits, vegetables, root crops and other farm products to deliver and stop at the fruits and vegetable landing area, where corresponding fees for farm products intended for local markets shall be assessed and collected.
Owners of farm products intended for transport outside Cagayan de Oro shall submit to the city treasurer a copy of the Bill of Lading issued by the boat where such cargoes were loaded within seven days from the shipment. Otherwise, he shall pay the charges for products intended for the local market.
The ordinance provides that rental for the use of the existing stalls and those that may be constructed shall be at the rate provided for under existing ordinances.
Those found violating any provision of the law shall be penalized with a fine of P1,500 for the first offense, P3,000 for the second offense plus suspension of business permit for six months, and P5,000 for the third and subsequence offenses, plus cancellation of business permit. (CIO/PIA-10)
5th Golden Float Parade depicts Cag. de Oro as the “City of Boom, Blossom and Bloom”
By: Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
GAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 27 (PIA) – At least 17 floats and 25 drum and bugle corps joined today’s pomp and revelry of the 5th Golden Float Parade Competition, here.
Part of the core events of the 2011 Kagay-an Festival, the floats depicted Cagayan de Oro City, widely known for its moniker, as the “City of boom, blossom and bloom!”
It is the seat of the regional center of Northern Mindanao, Mindanao’s largest economy.
The day’s event also provided the pre-climax to the city fiesta, tomorrow, Aug. 28, in honor of St. Augustine, the patron saint of the city.
The main thoroughfare, Apolinar Velez and Antonio Luna Sts., in the heart of the city, had to be closed to vehicular traffic to accommodate the civic-military foot parade that accompanied the pomp and revelry of the floats.
City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano with Vice-Mayor Ceasar Ian Acenas, and the rest of the Kagawads Sangguniang Panglungsod Kagawad (Council members) were in sight to greet the fiesta crowd.
Majority of the floats carried miniatures of the different buildings and industries reflecting the economic boom taking place in the city,that included the fields of business and commerce, information and technology (IT), among others.
It also carried miniature infrastructure and road projects, now being implemented by the city government, like the fly-over in Barangay Bugo, launched by President Benigno S. Aquino III, when he visited the city, last March.
Also being showcased by the floats are the different tourist and scenic spots of the city, the foremost of which is the White River Rafting.
Meanwhile, today’s float competition was only one (1) of the core events of the 2011 Kagay-an Festival, Cagayan de Oro City’s annual festival of events promoting culinary, sports, cultured and trade and tourism.
The festival started with the presentation of the candidates for Miss Kagay-an 2011, last Aug. 7, the swim wear/casual wear competition, talent competition, fashion show and coronation on Aug. 13, Aug. 14, Aug. 21 and Aug. 24, respectively.
There was also the “Kumbira” (food feast) competition on Aug. 17-19, Halad sa Kalambaguhan, Aug, 21, Kahimunan Trade Fair, Aug. 22-28, P.E. Rhytmic Dance Festival, Aug. 25.
Again, there was the Folkloric Dance Competition: “Plowtawo” (Human Float) and Dance showcase at the Pelaez Sports Center, yesterday, in the morning and the “Kalo” (Hat) and Pyrotechnics Festival at SM Cagayan de Oro City, Aug. 26. (PIA-10)
4ID greets Cag. de Oro fiesta revelers/assures help to maintain peace and order
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, Aug. 27 (PIA) – The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division (4ID), Philippine Army, will continue helping the city government in facilitating the delivery of basic government services to its far-flung barangays.
This assurance came from Maj. Gen. Victor A. Felix, Commander of 4ID, who joins the people of the city in celebrating their City Fiesta, tomorrow, Aug. 28.
“We sincerely thank the city which is called as the City of Golden Friendship for being our gracious host and for providing 4I|D and its troopers a home away from home,” Felix said.
“As a sign of gratitude, this command would like to acknowledge the hospitality of the city who looks on us as partner in nation building. The 4ID troopers are committed in helping maintain the peace and order situation, here, in the city,” he also said.
“Happy Fiesta and may this jovial occasion become an opportunity for merry-making, sharing and thanksgiving for all the blessings that the city received in the past year,” Felix said.
“Let us all hope and pray that the coming year would be more bountiful and generous for each one of us,” the 4ID Commander said. (4CMO/PIA-10)
Cag. de Oro Police reminds fiesta revelers to be vigilant
By: Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 27 (PIA) – P/SSupt. Gerardo Rosales, Director of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO), has reminded the city fiesta revelers to be vigilant and not to lower their guard against unscrupulous individuals who might want to take advantage of the fiesta activities.
Rosales issued the warning, despite reports of very low incidence of snatching and pick-pocketing, during the month-long activities that have been lined-up for the Aug. 28 city fiesta celebration, this year.
“This could be due to the heightened Police visibility in strategic areas of the city where most people go, like shopping malls, and where the different fiesta events were held, like carnivals, competitions and shows, among others,” he said.
He also thanked the augmentation forces from higher headquarters of the Philippine National Police (PNP), like the Police Regional Office (PRO) region 10, mobile police forces, newly recruited Police Officers and students taking up Bachelor of Science in Criminology from some schools in the city for their help in manning their Police Visibility centers.
“We would always like to prevent the crime from happening and letting the people feel the Police presence would surely help deter crime,” he said
Again the COCPO Director advised the revelers, when they set out from their homes to these areas, to bring just their essential things and not to wear so much jewelry that would invite the attention of the criminals to victimize them.
In instances when the revelers would bring their children with them, they must see to it that somebody should take care and watch over the children so they won’t get lost in the crowd to avoid hysterics on the part of the parents, later on, Rosales added. (PIA-10)
24-storey condotel to rise in Cag. de Oro next year
By Lorebeth C. Requiroso
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 27 (PIA) – Mayor Vicente Y. Emanosaid a 24-storey condotel will be constructed in the city next year.
In a press statement, the mayor said this will boost the city’s economy and provide more jobs for the city’s constituents.
This will be one of the city’s pride and landmarks, he added. “Gawas nga ang katukoran sa maong condotel makatabang sa atong ekonomiya, makahatag kini og daghang trabaho ug usab atong garbo kay mao man unya kini ang labing taas nga building sa tibuok pulo sa Mindanao (Aside from helping our in the economy and giving jobs to our residents, this will also give pride to our city because this will be the tallest building in the entire island of Mindanao),” he added.
The mayor airs his gratitude to the investor for this development.
“Sa AVIDA nga maoy magtukod niini, daghang salamat sa inyong pagtabang ug pagsalig (To AVIDA that will put up the project, thank you very much for your help and confidence in us),” the Mayor said.
Meanwhile, Mayor Emano announced that road improvement, particularly, the concreting of the road in Balulang leading to Pelaez Highway will be implemented.
The Mayor has requested A. Brown, the developer of one of the posh subdivisions in the city to implement the project on a tax credit scheme.
“Kung kini mahuman na, maka-gaan kini sa problema nato sa trapiko (Once this will be finished, this could help ease the traffic in the city),” Mayor Emano added. (CIO/PIA-10)
DOLE Sec. Baldoz distributes livelihood financial assistance to returning OFW’s
By Nestor B. Flores, Jr.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 26, (PIA) - At least 27 members of the Barangay 12 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Golden Friendship Association, here, received P10,000, each, as financial assistance for their business ventures.
The said assistance was handed to them in cash by Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), at Grand Caprice Restaurant, Limketkai Center, this city, during her visit, here, last Aug. 24.
It was as part of the National Reintegration Center for OFWs’ Livelihood Financial Assistance Program of DOLE, Regional Director Petrona M. Bergado of the Overseas Workers’ Welfare Administration (OWWA), region 10, said.
The financial assistance was supposed to be used as either start up or additional capital for the small project or business that the OFW is planning to venture in as an alternative to overseas work.
The 27 beneficiaries only composed the first batch among 88 OFW returnees of region 10, who have been displaced from Libya, Madagascar, Qatar and other countries in the Middle East due to political unrest and adverse effect of the prior global financial crises.
Bergado said before availing of the grant, the beneficiaries had first undergone a Basic Organizational Seminar, followed by a Financial Literacy Seminar and finally, an Entrepreneurial Development Training (EDT).
Such trainings were part of the social preparations for OFWs who would like to venture into entrepreneurship and establish or strengthen their business.
The EDT includes subjects on entrepreneurial orientation, business counseling, business planning and management enhancement, Bergado added. (OWWA/PIA-10)
Gov’t forces foil rebel attack
By: 1Lt Jeorge R. Jallorina
MEDINA, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 27 (PIA) – Personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) has gallantly repelled the attempt of some 30 rebels who tried to overrun the Municipal Police Station (MPS), here, at 5:20 p.m., last Aug. 25.
P/Insp. James T. Gaylan who headed the PNP personnel successfully denied the attack of the rebels, believed to be remnants of Guerilla Front 4-b.
Unfortunately, however, the clash resulted in one (1) Killed in action (KIA), two (2) wounded on the government side and one (1) body count on the enemy side.
Recently, the armed group were frequently sighted in the hinter Barangays of Salay and Sugbongcogon both of Misamis Oriental.
The 8th Infantry (Dependable) Battalion (8IB), Philippine Army, was able to initiate three (3) armed encounters against said Communist group wounding one soldier with an undetermined number of casualties on the enemy side.
“We have deployed immediate reinforcement upon knowing our PNP counterpart in Medina was under attack. Our troops reached vicinity Medina MPS but could not directly engage the rebels sensing that it would result to collateral damages considering there where several onlookers around,” Lt. Col. Jose Ma. Cuerpo, 8IB Commander, said.
Dianne Bolivar, the Mayor’s Secretary, said “We were still at the office when suddenly we heard the gun fires. We immediately kneeled down when few of the rebels entered the office and pointed their guns to me and my colleagues. I cried and beg for our lives.”
Meanwhile, the MPS identified the victims as SPO1 Editho Bayhon, KIA, Spo2 Rene Rombo who was hit in his upper back, right side, and Spo1 Diosdado Sendiong, who was hit in his left arm.
The dead body of the rebel was identified by eyewitnesses as a certain Bankaw Langka Ayuma.
One (1) M16 rifle, a hand grenade and BF Radios were also recovered by the government forces after the enemy withdrew aboard three (3) Toyota Hi-ACE Van.
So far, the motor vehicles with plate numbers KEG297, KER 702 and POJ 290 used by the rebels were recovered.
“The Army and PNP forces are currently pursuing the fleeing enemies. We will continue the pursuit against these criminal group and bring them to justice and answer for the crimes they committed,” Cuerpo added. (8IB/PIA-10)
PDEA-10 destroys seized dangerous drugs
By: Juliet Cagaanan
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 27 (PIA) – Some Php1.7 million worth of shabu and Marijuana were destroyed by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), regional 10, last Aug. 25.
The burning took place at Hall of Justice Ground, here, in accordance with Section 21, Article II of RA 9165, DDB Regulation No. 1, series of 2002 and Dangerous Drug Board (DDB) Regulation No. 1, series of 2007.
Based on the inventory report submitted by Regional Director, Roberto S. Opeña of PDEA-10 to PDEA Director General Jose S. Gutierrez Jr., the total seized dangerous drugs consisted of 36,186.72 grams of Marijuana and 0.12 grams of shabu.
These combined volume of dangerous drugs were seized by drug enforcement authorities from various drug cases, which has been filed and submitted to Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 37 and 19, of the Hall of Justice, this city.
Present during the burning/destruction of seized illegal drugs, were Jose L. Escobido, Presiding Judge of RTC Branch 17, Atty. Charisse Galarrita, Assistant City Prosecutor, Atty. Alvyn Lopena, Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) Representative and Dr. Simer Belacho, Head, Regulatory Division, Department of Health (DOH).
Also present were Leonard Jan U. Lim, Barangay Captain of Barangay 40, this city, Rey D. Pavillar, Deputy Regional Director PDEA-10, P/Sr. Insp. Arnold Bustarde of the Philippine National Police (PNP) other members of the law enforcement agencies, government and non-government organizations and the media. (PDEA/PIA-10)
More NorMin youths benefit from government internship program
By Apipa Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 26 (PIA) --- Some 1,704 youths in Northern Mindanao, have been benefited by the Government Internship Program (GIP), this year.
This was bared by Eddie Cuaresma, Cluster Head, National Youth Commission (NYC), Northeastern Mindanao, during the recent Regional Advisory Council (RAC) meeting, here.
Data gathered by NYC show that the province of Camiguin posted the highest GIP enrollment with 420 youths, excluding the 140 GIP-enrolled youth in Mambajao town.
Next was Malaybalay City in Bukidnon with 300 youths, followed by Gingoog City and Cagayan de Oro City with 260 and 250, respectively.
The data also show that in Bukidnon, the local government unit (LGU) of San Fernando had 139 GIP beneficiaries, while Lantapan had 79, and Manolo Fortich and Valencia City had 75 and 41, respectively.
The GIP is NYC’s contribution to the poverty alleviation program of the government which provides young and deserving individuals with necessary skills related to youth development, Cuaresma said.
It aims to initiate the youth to public service to draw their support and understanding of government programs and projects and serves as a recruitment mechanism for potential public employees.
Students and out-of-school youths (OSY), who are 18-25 years old, are the targeted clientele of the GIP, which involves all departments and agencies of the national government, government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), and the LGUs.
College and/or vocational students are to be recruited by the government agencies on the basis of their major or minor fields of discipline, while OSY, preferably those less fortunate but deserving ones, shall be involved in the field work of government extension programs and projects in their communities.
Under the GIP, the government agencies will provide the youth interns with stipend of not more than 75% of the applicable minimum wage.
They may also provide meal or transportation allowances which can be sourced out from the GO budget, as may be provided by law, and subject to the existing laws of accounting and auditing rules and regulations.
However, the youth participant shall be accommodated only once in the year-round implementation of the program for a maximum period of three (3) months and a minimum of two (2) months, upon completion of which, he/she will receive a “Certificate of Completion” to be issued by GO involved.
Meanwhile, Cuaresma has encouraged the LGUs’s in Northern Mindanao to come-up with an ordinance adopting the GIP to be able to help more youths in the region. (PIA-10)
NBI-10 nabs smuggling suspect Bigcas for illegal possession of firearms
By: Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY. Misamis Oriental, Aug. 26 (PIA) – Smuggling suspect Lynard Allan Bigcas has been arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), here, and has been turned-over to the proper authorities.
He was arrested, exactly a week after a Warrant of Arrest (WOA) for Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunitions was issued by Judge Jose U. Yamut, Sr. of the Regional Trial Court, 10th Judicial Region, Branch 11, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, last Aug. 18.
Bigcas was socializing with friends at Rhodelsa Circle, near the alternate bridge, here, when apprehended, said Atty. Wenceslao Galendez, NBI-10 Investigation Agent, said.
Per the WOA signed by Judge Yamut, the bail for Bigcas’ release is fixed at Php80,000 which maybe furnished by the accused, either by depositing the amount with the nearest collector of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) or provincial, city or municipal treasurer, in accordance with Section 14 ( cash bail).
He can also do it by furnishing a bond approved by the RTC Judge, in accordance with Section 19 (corporate surety) and Section 11 (property bond) of Rule 114 of the Revised Rules on Criminal Procedure.
It can be recalled that last May 3, joint operatives of NBI, the Philippine National Police (PNP) and USA’s Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) raided the warehouse in Talakag, Bukidnon, owned by a certain Robert Omullon wherein 19 cars and motorcycles were successfully recovered from the premises
The raid was made on the strength of a Search Warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court of Talakag, Bukidnon, after which, another operation was simultaneously conducted on the rented house of Bigcas in Barangay Kauwsagan, this city, where 10 more cars and motorcycles, including some firearms and ammunitions, were found.
Subsequently, last May 9, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) against the recovered cars and motorcycles, thereby, acquiring jurisdiction over them.
A congressional inquiry was, thereafter, conducted on the alleged smuggling activities of Bigcas chaired by Cong. Rodolfo Fariñas.
However, Bigcas testified that he brought all the imported motorcycles through “Balikbayan” boxes, thereby, evading the payment of taxes and duties.
He was also required to present proof of his ownership over the confiscated motorcycles. As to the MV’s, Bigcas alleged that he acquired all of them locally.
Last May 19, a case of smuggling was filed by the BOC against Bigcas before the City Prosecutors of CDO and the Province of Bukidnon.
The Bukidnon case was later withdrawn and filed at the Department of Justice (DOJ), Manila. However, the CDO case remains to be heard by the City Prosecutor’s Office here in the city.
In close coordination with BOC-X, NBI-10 is conducting an in-depth investigation on the alleged smuggling activities of Bigcas in CDO.
Meanwhile, NBI-10 has turned-over the actual physical possession of the following MV’s for disposal and upon subsequent issuance of a WSD to BOC-X, last Aug. 17:
Martin Brother’s Chopper with chassis # 1M9HW28808D830003 and Chevrolet Tahoe with chassis # 1GNNEC13Z34R110174 and engine # 317018133648925.
Dodge |Charger with chassis # 2B3KA43G37H86607 and Ranger Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV), color red, chassis # 4XAVH76A48D330033.
Yamaha YZF450 with chassis # JYACJ1077A015220 engine # J324E-015271 and Yamaha YZF285 with chassis # JYACG25C06A012137 engine # E-G342E-024206. (PIA-10)
Malaybalay steps up efforts to protect consumers vs. fraudulent trade practices
By Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy
MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, Aug. 26 (PIA) – The Malaybalay City Price Coordinating Council (MCPCC), in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), convened recently to adopt the Action Plan crafted by the newly installed Price Monitoring Board (PMB).
City Mayor Ignacio Zubiri said the project forms part of the initiative of the city government to combat deceptive and fraudulent commercial practices.
“We are committed to ensure that consumers should be protected through the licensing and regulation of many businesses and services here,” he said.
Despite differing systems and policies for the protection of consumers, the PMB reached a consensus on the need to pass an ordinance to impose penalties to price manipulators, weekly market price monitoring, and implementation of the price tag law.
The PMB, likewise, underscored in the plan, the regular calibration of the “Timbangan ng Bayan” (market weighing scales), installation of huge price monitoring boards at conspicuous areas in the public market, and verification of the consumer-lodged complaints.
DTI Provincial Director Ermedio Abang, meanwhile, said information exchange, communication and joint action will combat misleading and unfair commercial conduct.
“Businesses, consumers, the government and their representatives should devote special attention to the development of effective enforcement of consumer protection policies and laws,” Abang further said. (PIA 10)
Advisory council in region 10 supports government’s greening program
By Apipa Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, August 26 (PIA) --- The Regional Advisory Council, in region 10, has vowed to support the National Greening Program (NGP) of President Benigno S. Aquino III.
During its 17th regular meeting, the council has re-affirmed its commitment to support the NGP by conducting tree planting and growing activity, every after its regular meeting, in a pre-designated ‘RAC Eco-Park.’
However, the planting site and seedlings variety are yet to be identified by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), here.
Eddie Cuaresma, head of the National Youth Commission (NYC) Northeastern Mindanao Cluster and presiding officer during the meeting, has assured the DENR that the council will provide the necessary manpower needed during the tree growing activities.
With the convergence of efforts of the RAC member-agencies, youth organizations, student councils and youth parliament, we will multiply the network of participants who will go to that designated site to plant and grow trees on a regular basis, he said.
By doing this as a regular activity, the council can also be proud that it has done something to mitigate the impacts of flooding in this city, he cited.
A priority program of Pres. Aquino, NGP is a massive tree planting and growing scheme intended to address poverty alleviation, food security, biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and environmental stability.
Under the program, some 1.5 billion trees will be grown in around 1.5 million hectares of land nationwide within the period of six (6) years, starting this year.
In the region, a total of 2,168,000 trees of various species have been targeted to be planted and grown in about 4,336 hectares for the period 2011 to 2016.
The targeted NGP-area in Northern Mindanao was divided among its provinces as follows: Bukidnon with 2,002 hectares, Misamis Occidental with 999 hectares, Misamis Oriental with 774 hectares, Lanao del Norte with 424 hectares, and Camiguin with 85 hectares.
The remaining 52 hectares was allotted for tree growing activities in Lake Lanao, one of the largest sources of hydropower in Mindanao. (PIA10)
Standard safety programs can help prevent accidents - DOLE
By Jorie C. Valcorza
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 26 (PIA) – Industries have to put in place standard safety programs to help prevent or eliminate accidents from happening.
This was the message of Asst. Regional Director Sisinio B. Cano of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-10) to the private occupational safety groups during the opening of the Regional Occupational Safety, Health and Environment Summit held at the Pearlmont Inn, this city, Aug. 25-26.
“We will continuously work and support our partner safety organizations, so that, together we may be able to inculcate to workers, as well, as to the management side, that safety is non-negotiable,” Cano said.
Anchored on the theme: “Sustaining and strengthening safety, health, and environment in the workplace,” the summit aims to enhance compliance to occupational safety and health (OSH) standards, as well as, promote greater stakeholder participation in the OSH advocacy.
Together with DOLE and the Occupational Safety and Health Center, region 10 (OSHC- 10), the activity was initiated by the three (3) established safety organizations in the region:
Occupational Safety and Health Network, region 10 (OSHNet-10), Safety Organization of the Philippines-Misamis Oriental, Cagayan de Oro City and Bukidnon, Inc. (SOPI-MOCdeOBuk) and the Association of Safety Practitioner of the Philippines, Inc., region 10 (ASPPI-10).
Engr. Teodoro V. Cahoy, president of OSHNet-10 Inc said that this is the only gathering where all safety organizations in a region have worked together in bid to increase public awareness especially among small medium enterprises (SMEs).
“The good turnout in attendance shows that most industries in the region are (OSH) conscious,” he said.
Among the participants of the summit were, medical professionals and safety practitioners from the different industries in the region who will be sharing their best safety practices and studies on addressing regional concerns and issues such as OSH challenges in agri-business, hospitals, and emergency preparedness in the Information and Technology (IT) sector.
The summit opened with the unveiling of booths and exhibits, followed by plenary sessions and will close with presentations on resolutions related to OSH the signing of the pledge of commitment.
Meanwhile, OSHC Executive Director, Ma. Terista Cucueco commended its partners for realizing the big gathering, citing it, as an initial step to best expand the networking between the government and non-government organization (GO/NGO).
“Through this co-partnership we will find ways to multiply all our efforts and this summit that we are having now, is the fruit of our partnership,” she noted.
Likewise, Dr. Gilbert B. Gille, President of the Philippine College of Occupational Medicine, Inc. invited interested companies to join any of the three safety organizations in the region, assuring help and necessary assistance.
“We give free lectures or seminars to the corresponding companies as part of our advocacy awareness and with that we also recommend to them, to apply for accreditation to the government sector like DOLE,” Gille said.
“We are not sleeping on our obligations as safety and health practitioners in the private sector and we are moving together aggressively with the government sector that’s why we are here,” he added. (PIA 10)
Mambajao town to go plastic-free
By Jorie C. Valcorza
CAMIGUIN, Mambajao, Aug. 26 (PIA) – Henceforth, the use of plastic bags in this town will be put to a stop.
This, as more than 2,000 improvised bags and 10,000 thousand large and medium sized paper bags were initially distributed by the local government unit (LGU) of Mambajao to market-goers in its bid to drum up the plastic-free program.
The bags were made of recycled sacks and papers. The LGU is also accepting sacks, converting it for free as bags when returned to owners.
Mayor Maria Luisa Romualdo is personally leading the distribution of the bags and has also been doing series of symposia and public consultation with the market vendors, as well, as with the government employees.
Her next visit and distribution target will then be at the school level.
Local officials here appealed for full support and participation of its constituents on the campaign, simply by doing their little share of using recyclable market bags, which will ultimately help lessen the use of plastics.
The plastic-free campaign in the town took off two (2) years ago, with the passing of a resolution requesting the store owners and vendors in Mambajao Public Market to limit the use of plastic in their businesses.
This campaign will serve as a springboard of the LGU towards achieving its vision for a “Clean and Beautiful Mambajao.” (PIA-10)
BJMP expects 800 outdoor enthusiasts in Hike/Run Challlenge
By Jeza Mae Sarah Sanchez
MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, Aug. 25 (PIA) -- Some 800 outdoor enthusiasts are expected to take part in the “JAIL HOUSE ROCK 8-K HIKE/RUN CHALLENGE,” which will kick off this coming September 25.
“The first of its kind in region 10, the activity primarily aims to source out funds to strengthen even more the Alternative Learning System (ALS) of inmates in Malaybalay City Jail,” Sr. Insp. Guy Jason Reyes, Jail Warden, said.
“Optimistic as we are, we also hope that this would help transform the public perception of jails and on that process transform the inmates’ perception of themselves,” the Jail Warden added.
Souvenir jerseys will be made available. Prizes will be also be given for winners in every category.
Interested participants may sign up at registrations sites at Malaybalay City Plaza, Bukidnon. (
(BJMP/PIA-10)
PGLDN execs appeal to Hanjin for maintaince of MIRIDP roads
By Vincent N. Labial
TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Aug. 26 (PIA) -- The municipal mayors and provincial heads, here, have appealed to Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction Company, Ltd. (Hanjin) to diligently maintain the Metro Iligan Regional Infrastructure Development Project (MIRIDP) road network as guaranteed in the warranty clause of the MIRIDP contract.
The call was prompted after a joint inspection team by government officials in this province discovered that a recent massive landslide in a stretch of road along the Tagoloan-Baloi boundary was allegedly caused by a clogged drainage system.
An offsite infrastructure support of the Metro Iligan Regional Agro-Industrial Center (MIRAIC), MIRIDP is expected to pump prime the economic development to municipalities covered by its implementation, especially, the interior towns of the province.
Hanjin is the contractor of this biggest infrastructure project in this fast-rising province of Lanao del Norte with a project cost of Php1.4 billion.
However, the onslaught of seasonal rains is threatening to cause more landslides in the 54-kilometer project, if proper road maintenance is not observed, which could result to impassable roads and loss of lives.
With the rainy season nearing its peak, government officials are urging Hanjin to hasten their drainage clearing operations and faithfully comply with the stipulations of warranty clause.
“The road clearing operation is now being spearheaded by the provincial government supported by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH),” Provincial Project Director Dennis Aguipo.
Aguipo also said “We are also expecting the equipment from Hanjin company to arrive here in the landslide area by today so we can clear this access road as soon as possible.”
Clearing operation is expected to last for three (3) days before the road segment becomes open again to local traffic.
While the Defect Liability Period (DLP) for the MIRIDP project has still not lapsed, provincial and town officials are identifying the defective portions of the road network. During the infrastructure warranty period, the contractor is obligated to repair any and all defects observed in the project.
After the final inspection of the project by the Provincial Inspectorate Team, last Sept. 23, the residents became optimistic of the economic boosts that the mammoth project will bring to the province.
However, as landsides start to demolish portions of the road network due to poor maintenance, people are looking Hanjin to comply with the warranty clause of their contract.
The MIRIDP is a flagship project of the Dimaporo leadership and envisioned by the architects of this program to provide the countryside with economic opportunities that will propel Lanao del Norte into becoming a new powerhouse province. (PIO/PIA-10)
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