Kagay-anons joins 114th Philippine Independence Day celebration 

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 12 (PIA) --- Cagayan de Oro City joins the whole nation in celebrating the 114th Philippine Independence Day today.

Hundreds of government workers, community leaders, and civic organizations gathered early this morning at Kiosko Kagawasan in Divisoria for the simple commemorative rites that was spearheaded by the city government.

With the theme, “Kalayaan: Pananagutan ng Bayan para sa Tuwid na Daan,” the celebration kicked-off with the sounding of sirens by the Cagayan de Oro Fire Department.

This was followed by the hoisting of the Philippine flag and executive wreath laying at the foot of the Rizal Monument led by City Mayor Vicente Emano and 4ID Commander Major General Victor Felix.

Emano said the ceremony is just fitting to pay tribute to the bravery of our forefathers who fought for the country’s independence.

He urged everyone to set aside politics and be united for the total development of the city and the nation as a whole.

The mayor also expressed appreciation to the heads of the different government agencies in the region and civic organizations who participated in the ceremony.

The floral offering by these agencies and organizations capped the first part of the celebration.

The second part of the celebration is highlighted by the launching of the 3D Art Museum in the afternoon at the city amphitheatre. At 7:00 p.m. today, the Pista sa Nayon likewise opened by the city government. (APB/PIA-10) 


Solon supports passage of sin tax bill 

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, June 11 (PIA) -- A representative from the district of Camiguin expresses his support to the sin tax bill, noting that he gives more weight on resolving health-related issues than the additional revenues it could generate to boost government coffers.

“Taxes are immaterial here, what count’s more is the well being of the people,” Representative Pedro P. Romulado said.

Having undergone a triple bypass heart surgery due to smoking, Romulado capitalizes heavily on the positive results it could bring to the people, citing that more and more patients are admitted in the hospitals today due to smoking-related diseases.

In an interview over Radio Mindanao Network here in Cagayan de Oro City, the Congressman explained that many of his colleagues in the Congress shared the same outlook, as they too have personally experienced the ill effects of smoking.

When asked about possible entry of smuggled cigarettes, he admitted it is among his apprehensions and should be given more emphasis.

House Bill 5727 or the Sin Tax Bill has already been approved by the House of Representatives before ending its second regular session.

Tobacco farmers on the other hand have expressed fears that the bill would affect their incomes. (PIA 10)


Gov. Moreno underscores on good governance to better economic performance 
By Jorie C. Valcorza

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, June 12, 2012 (PIA) – Citing the country’s recent economic gains, Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar S. Moreno urged government workers to adhere to the principles of good governance and build on what on what our forefathers have started.

In his speech during the Independence Day rites, Moreno said the Philippine economic performance has continued to impress many economist world wide as it continue to hit impressive GDP growth rate.

He further noted that by the second half of this year, our country will get another upgrade or recognition from the international community.

“These gains will mean higher credibility rating for the country, lighter debt burden, more jobs and opportunities for the Filipino people,” he said.

With this, Moreno pointed out the need to maximize the province strategic advantage through attractive and investor friendly governance.

“We need not only invite new industry players but also work on retaining the old ones. We are part of a bigger competitive world and we need everybody’s (especially the local officials) cooperation for a more investor attractive province,” he added.

“Let us continue building what our great forefathers have started, and let the seed of inspiration that they have planted sprout from today and to the future generations to come, that it may bring good name to Misamis Oriental. (PIA 10)