President Aquino leads groundbreaking of College of IT building in Marawi City

By Apipa P. Bagumbaran

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 23 (PIA) --- President Benigno S. Aquino III led yesterday the ceremonial groundbreaking of the College of Information Technology (CIT) building of the Mindanao State University (MSU), here.

The President was joined by MSU President Macapado Muslim, CHED Commissioner Ruperto Sangalang and ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman in the capsule laying rite that paves the way for the construction of the three-storey building.

“Ang gusaling ito ay tagumpay hindi lamang ng MSU kundi ng buong bayan. Buhat ito ng ating pagbabayanihan at pagkakaisa para isulong ang magandang bukas para sa susunod na henerasyon (The building is not only the success of the MSU but of the entire nation. This is the product of our cooperative endeavor and unity to advance the good future of the next generation),” President Aquino said.

The President said the project has an allocated budget of P45 million to be taken out from the P2.6 billion budget of MSU for the year 2013.

Once completed, he said, students and communities of the university will benefit from the modern computer training center, new teleconferencing and multimedia room, and more classrooms and laboratories for teaching information technology which are very important in today’s information age.

The three-storey building will house classrooms and computer laboratories; computer training center; teleconferencing and multimedia room; server farm; Information Systems, Computer Studies, and Support Services and Training departments; personnel offices; and library for IT books/holdings, among others.

The construction of the CIT building plays a vital role for MSU’s quest for excellence. It signals the kick-off for the construction of a series of infra facilities development projects to make MSU of global quality by 2020. (APB/PIA-10)

May 1 is regular holiday throughout the country

By Rutchie C. Aguhob

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, April 23 (PIA) -- The whole country will pay tribute to its labor force on May 1, Labor Day.

The 111th anniversary of the Labor Day celebration, a regular holiday, is actually the 5th in the list of regular holidays of 2013 as stated in Presidential Proclamation 459 signed by President Aquino.

The first four of these regular holidays were New Year’s Day on January 1, Holy Thursday on March 28, Good Friday, March on 29 and Bataan Day on April 9.

May 1 reminds Filipinos of the growth of labor unions, which started in 1902, as essentially an offshoot of the American occupation, the late Teodoro A. Agoncillo of the Department of History of the University of the Philippines said in his book “History of the Filipino People,” (8th edition, 1990).

“Through united action, labor made significant gains, among the first being the creation of the Bureau of Labor and, later, of the Department of Labor, and the enactment of legislation providing for the prosecution of usurers, the protection of domestic help, the payment of compensation to workers injured in line of duty, and the protection of women and children working in factories,” Agoncillo wrote.

He said a special tribunal, the Court of Industrial Relations, was established to facilitate the settlement of disputes between labor and management and to help in the effective implementation of laws governing the relationship between capital and labor, such as the Eight-Hour Labor Law and the Social Security Act, among others.

Agoncillo said the most significant labor legislation safeguarding the rights of labor is Republic Act 875, also known as the Magna Carta of Labor which encourages laborers to freely form unions and recognizes the right of workers to declare strikes and safeguards against possible abuse of power by the labor unions.

Two of these important safeguard laws are the Termination Pay Law which provides that neither employer nor employee, in cases when there is no contract regarding definite employment in agricultural, industrial or commercial establishments, will terminate the service without due notice of at least 30 days prior to its termination.

The other is the Blue Sunday Law gives a semblance of leisure to the laborers, for its prohibits working on Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. (RCAguhob/PIA10-Misamis Occidental)

Comelec may allow changes of venue in final testing and sealing of PCOS machines

By Rutchie C. Aguhob

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, April 23 (PIA) -- Changes in the venues of the final testing and sealing (FTS) of the Precinct Count Optical Scanning (PCOS) machines to be used in the May 13, 2013 elections may be allowed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

This is after Comelec received numerous requests from election officers (EOs) that the FTS be done in venues other than the assigned polling centers due to their remote location that can be reached only after two to three days of walking.

Comelec Resolution 9670 promulgated last April 17, however, provides that such requests from the EO and the provincial elections supervisors (PES) concerned will be approved by the regional election director (RED) subject to conditions.

These conditions are: that the location of the polling precinct is such that it will be very difficult to supervise the conduct of the FTS, such as, when there is a need to repair or replace a defective PCOS Machine; that there is lack or difficulty of the means of transportation in the area and that its peace and order will justify the transfer of venue of the FTS to another location before election day; that the deployment service-provider will deliver the PCOS machines and other election paraphernalia to the proposed FTS venue and, afterwards to the polling precincts, without the Comelec incurring additional costs.

For this purpose, the RED/PES will coordinate with the assigned deployed service-providers as to the changes of the FTS venues.

The FTS will be conducted at least seven days before elections, but not less than three days before the date of the elections. (RCAguhob/ PIA10-Misamis Occidental)

PNoy asks Kagay-anons to choose rightful leaders

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- President Aquino has appealed to Kagay-anons to opt for just and honest candidates running for local and national positions in the upcoming May elections during his visit to the city last April 22 at the Pelaez Sports Complex.

After citing several projects such as farm-to-market roads, Laguindingan Airport and the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), President Aquino said to the Kagay-anons that “kamu ang nagbuhat niining tanan ug kamu pud ang mupadayon sa kauswsagan. Kailangan natin ng mga kakampi na maging sagwan sa iisang direksyon sa halip na ililihis tayo sa landas ng katuparan ng ating mga pangarap.”

(You are the ones who made this possible and you will also be the ones who will continue such development. We need a comrade who will paddle us in one direction instead of deviating us from the path of fulfilling our dreams.)

Taking note of their efforts to uplift the quality of life of the Filipinos through implementing several projects and programs, President Aquino expressed that if the goals of the upcoming officials will not coincide with their agenda, “talaga pong maaantala ang ating pag-arangkada bilang isang bansa” (our acceleration as one country will be delayed) no matter how hard the government will work.

He also shared that there are politicians who threaten registered members of 4Ps that they will be delisted if they do not support a particular candidate.

However, he reminded everyone that the program’s fund came from the people and if politicians continue to threaten the beneficiaries, they are not worth anyone’s vote and without this they can never have the power to do as they wish to the beneficiaries.

President Aquino also added that it is in choosing the right leaders a person could make a change saying that “kayo’ng mga Kagay-anon at mga taga Misamis Oriental, kayo ang gumawa ng pagbabago.” (You Kagay-anons and those from Misamis Oriental, all of you are responsible for creating change). (RTPaculba/PIA10)

PNoy cites programs to strengthen country’s education system

By Apipa P. Bagumbaran

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 23 (PIA) -- President Aquino on Monday cited some of the government programs which aims to strengthen the education system in the country.

In his keynote speech during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Mindanao State University’s (MSU) College of Information Technology (CIT) building, the President said the government has launched the K+12 program to ensure that the Filipino youth can keep up with the graduates of other countries.

He also said his administration has cleared the backlog on textbooks that it inherited for the Department of Education in 2012. He added that they are determined to address the 66,800 classroom shortage before the end of 2013.

President Aquino also mentioned the Public Higher Education Roadmap of the Commission on Higher Education which aims to improve the instruction facilities of the country’s state universities and colleges.

“Nariyan din ang Industry-Based Training for Work Scholarship Program ng TESDA, na may higit sa 76,300 scholars na ang sinanay para sa IT at kaugnay nitong mga industriya (There is also the Industry-Based Training for Work Scholarship Program of TESDA that has more than 76,300 scholars trained for IT and associated industries),” the President added.

The President meanwhile pointed out that the construction of the CIT building in MSU main campus is part of the government’s comprehensive strategy to invest in the skills of its people and strengthen the foundation of education in the country.

“Oras na matapos ang proyekto, makikinabang ang mga estudyante at komunidad ng pamantasan sa mas modernong computer training center, bagong teleconferencing at multimedia room at mas maraming silid-aralan at laboratoryo para sa pagtuturo ng information technology (Once the project is completed, students and the communities of the university will benefit from the modernized computer training center, the new teleconferencing and multimedia room and more classrooms and laboratories for teaching information technology),” he added.

President Aquino said this will correspond to a higher level of training in the field of technology and modern communication as well as new professionals which will open more doors of opportunity for his countrymen. (APB/PIA10)

Veterans Association lobby for increase in old-age pension of veterans

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- The Veterans Federation of the Philippines Sons and Daughters Association, Inc. (VFP-SDAI) is lobbying for an annual increase of P1,000 in the old-age pension of war veterans across the country.

Veterans presently get P5,000 per month. If the proposal is approved, they will get an additional P1,000 per year until it becomes P6,000 for next year, P7,000 for the next, and so on.

Miguel Angelo C. Villa-Real, deputy regional vice president for NCR-South said compared to regular government employees who are retired, the pension received by these war heroes is not enough, considering the present prices of commodities and medicines.

As mandated by the constitution in Section 7, Article 16, VFP-SDAI advocates the increase of old-age pension for all veterans, improved medical services including easier access to affordable quality medicines and expand the educational benefits to the families of veterans and release of overdue total administrative disability (TAD) benefits mandated under Republic Act 7679.

In terms of getting acknowledged as a war veteran, Villa-Real said the presentation of proof of documents is important, which should include a written recommendation from his past commander, photos and other relevant evidence. Those who are enlisted in the United States must have themselves documented veterans here as well.

The association is also conducting several activities to the descendants of veterans nationwide. They conduct entrepreneurship training, livelihood programs and also lend capital.

Villa-Real said the Veterans Bank is also mandated by the government to set aside 20 percent of its net income to be spent through its foundation in maintenance of medical and drug assistance to enlisted veterans.

Further, they provide one full scholarship per region to identified descendants.

“Education paves the way for better opportunities so we are trying to raise funds right now for the College Scholarship Program in every region for Sons and Daughters Association," he said.

There will also be a Travelling World War II exhibit at SM City Davao on May 3 which will show around 400 vintage photos and artifacts of the war and will also be shown in several parts of Mindanao, particularly Cagayan de Oro. (Yvonne A. Jimenez and Marie-Zil G. Malinao/JMOR/PIA10)

Iligan City hosts 1st NGCP Lineman’s Skills Competition

By Lorry V. Gabule

ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, April 23 (PIA) -- Four regional offices from the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) will compete in a three-day nationwide Lineman’s Skills Competition which starts today until April 25 at the rodeo site in the Mindanao O & M Lineman’s Academy, Maria Cristina, Iligan City.

The competing teams, each being a mix of the best linemen for the districts of each regional O&M group from North and South Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, is composed of 14 members in one line gang.

The event is an alternative training approach aimed at enhancing the proficiency and competence of linemen outside the traditional structured modules.

It also enables a free exchange of best practices on several aspects of line maintenance, both in the preparatory phase and the competition proper.

As a training scheme, the event runs on self-driven efforts of the competitors to sharpen their skills to excel in the tournament.

The program will start with a parade around Iligan at 7:30 a.m. today followed by several events for the rest of the day.

The events include the execution of the following lineman’s skills: pole erection/climbing, rope splicing, pole dressing, conductor riding, knot tying, pole undressing, wood pole-hurt man pole top rescue, bandaging, splint and transfer.

On the last day will be the competition on Emergency Restoration System (ERS), and capping off the three-day event will be the announcement and awarding of winners. (PIA 10-LDN/LVG)

LENTE conducts accountability training for truthful elections

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- The Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) in partnership with World Vision Foundation, Inc. organized a Voter’s Education for Good Governance Training with the theme “Hatid ng Boto ko, Pagbabago” here last April 18-19.

Ryan Tampus, project officer for LENTE Mindanao, said the main purpose of the accountability training is for the participants to be aware of several forms of election offenses, gather evidence before and on election day and filing of anonymous complaints or affidavit.

Participants of the training came from community-based organizations which include community leaders, teachers, ministers, representatives from several sectors and non-government organizations.

“This time we want to go deeper so muadto ta sa community. Pahibaw-on nato ang mga mothers, youth leaders, church leaders kung unsa ba gyud ang mga bag-o when it comes to election,” Tampus said. (This time we want to go deeper, so we went to the community. We want to let the mothers, youth leaders, church leaders know what is new when it comes to election.)

Tampus added that one of the challenges of implementing this activity is that they can’t force the community to file complaints against violators but they will always monitor any violation committed, especially in Mindanao where there are a lot of critical areas.

LENTE is also affiliated with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), One Vote, Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-National Secretariat for Social Action (CBCP-NASSA) and they will also work with National Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) and Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) on election day.

LENTE is a nationwide network of lawyers, law students, paralegals and other trained volunteers set up by non-partisan groups to monitor the canvassing of votes to ensure a truthful election. (Sweet Elah A. Mahinay/RTP/PIA10)

Oro Chamber to hold business negotiation workshop

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- The Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (Oro Chamber) in partnership with AGF Consulting Group, is organizing a training on “Negotiation for Business Success” on April 25-26, 2013 at 1 p.m.-5:30 pm in the Oro Chamber Business Centre, Pueblo de Oro Township, this city.

The city’s biggest business group believes that the participants of this learning session will be able to learn and apply techniques related to creating a win-win business atmosphere.

This seminar is a must for entrepreneurs and anyone looking for practical, tested and proven approaches to negotiating more successfully considering the full economic integration within the ASEAN in 2015.

The seminar is recommended for managers at all levels, from supervisors and middle managers to top executives. Subordinates and support staff, who participate substantially in sales and people handling are also encouraged to attend.

The training provider, AGF Consulting Group, is a leading ISO-certified training and consulting company in the country today and a recent addition to the Chamber’s roster of member companies.

AGF is one of the most sought after consulting firms when it comes to implementing best practices across a variety of functional areas including quality, productivity, environment, health and safety, business process improvements, project management and information technology.

For more information, contact the Oro Chamber Secretariat through Che Rayos at telephone numbers (088) 858-4068 and 309-0951 or email at orochamber@gmail.com. (OCCI/PIA10)

PNoy reminds Kagay-anons to foster safe City

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- President Aquino reminded Kagay-anon voters in his recent visit in the city to choose the right leader in the upcoming elections so that the safety of the people from calamities would be ensured.

President Aquino said there is a P10-billion budget intended for evacuation programs for people living in hazardous areas within the country every year. Thus, he said there’s no excuse for local administrations not to allocate budget for the people who really need it, especially the Sendong and Pablo survivors.

“Huwag kayo’ng titira sa mapanganib na lugar (Do not set up houses in dangerous places),” PNoy said.

He said the Department of Natural Resources (DENR) has already reminded the people not to build houses along the riverside because it was a dangerous area and lives are at risk when flood comes along.

“Kaya nga po sa darating na Mayo 13 gusto natin mabasbas ang pagbabago. Idaan po natin sa matuwid ang ating mga boto. Masusi po natin ang mga kasama natin sa tuwid na daan. Sa ating pagtutulungan, sisiguraduhin nating hindi na maulit ang kamalian ng nakaraan,” PNoy said.

(That’s why for the upcoming May 13 elections, we want to pursue change. Let’s direct our votes and secure our company to the right path. As we help each other, let us all make sure that the wrongdoings in the past will not be repeated.) (Jane Francis M. Lumacang/RTP/PIA10)

PRO 10 condemns attack on Mayor Guingona and her convoy

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 22 (PIA) -- The Police Regional Office 10 together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will pursue the investigation of the recent attack on the convoy of Gingoog City Mayor Ruth De Lara Guingona to hold the perpetrators responsible for their criminal act.

Police Chief Supt. Catalino B. Rodriguez said the incident will never dampen the spirits of the Philippine National Police and AFP personnel in serving and protecting the people, but will further strengthen their resolve in performing their mandated tasks and duties.

The incident which happened on April 20, 2013 at around 11:00 p.m. drew condemnation from the government security forces, particularly the PNP and the AFP.

Rodriguez extends PRO 10’s heartfelt sympathies to the members of the families of Bartolome Velasco and Nestor Velasco who were killed in the attack and to Mayor Guingona, Leo Cañete and Police Officer 3 Rolando Benemirito who were wounded. (PRO/PIA10)

PNoy says Laguindingan airport to boost Mindanao economy

BALINGASAG, Misamis Oriental, April 23 (PIA)—President Aquino said the Laguindingan airport which will open on June 15 will greatly contribute to the economic development of Mindanao.

Through the bidding process, project cost has been reduced to P83 million from P90-million budget allocation. The savings will be used for other government projects.

Aquino also cited other projects in the province such as completion of 18 farm-to-market roads and 27 irrigation projects. This will benefit farmers in Opol, Manticao, Claveria, Sugbongcogon, Naawan, Alubijid, Jasaan, El Salvador, Gingoog and Cagayan de Oro.

He said 4,500 housing units are already built for the survivors of typhoon Sendong and they are still opting to build more as the target is 8,600 housing units in Cagayan de Oro resettlement sites.

Apart from this, the government has also allocated P12 million for the Self-Employment Assistance Kaunlaran as well as P23 million for Cash-for-Work program. (Mark Anthony Dedoyco /JMOR/PIA10)