DENR-9 chief reiterates agency’s mandate, urges stakeholders to support

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9 Regional Executive Director Arleigh J. Adorable has underscored the primary mandate of his department which is to conserve, manage and develop the country’s environment and natural resources.

“It’s really a gigantic mandate,” he said during the opening ceremonies of the first ever weeklong DENR 9 Exhibit 2013 on Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Technologies and Programs held here at the lobby of the City Commercial Center (C3) last July 22-26.

“If there are flashfloods or heavy rains, DENR is being blamed,” he jokingly said.

“DENR cannot do it alone in fulfilling the agency’s vision of one nation enjoying and sustaining its natural resources in a healthy and clean environment,” Adorable added.

“In order to attain this mission, I exhort other stakeholders especially the local government units (LGUs) to help. Because the responsibility to protect the environment doesn’t rest on a few people alone, but it rests upon each and every one of us to help each other,” he pointed out.

Redoble explained that the DENR would only provide the technical assistance on how to do things to become responsible environment protectors.

The exhibit, which was spearheaded by the Technology Transfer Division (TTD), Ecosystems Research and Development Services (ERDS) in coordination with the Forest Management Service (FMS), and Protected Areas and Wildlife Coastal Zone Management Services (PAWCZMS), is anchored on the theme, “Rediscovering Research in Zamboanga Peninsula.” (PIA9)

DSWD prepares for re-documentation of poor households

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is preparing for the conduct  of household reassessment this October, reveals DSWD-9 Regional Information Officer Narabelle Bue in a press release.

She said the recertification of poor households was initially scheduled next year but it was moved to an earlier date in October this year, as confirmed by the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction-National Project Management Office (NHTSPR-NPMO).

“From 32 questions, there will now be 44 questions that will serve as variables in determining the classification of household as poor or non-poor,” Bue explained, as she said that the management team has been working on the enhancement of the system and the Household Assessment Form (HAF) in preparation for said recertification.

Bue said pooling of field staff is one item being prioritized now by DSWD’s Regional Household Targeting Unit IX in the preparatory level for the reassessment.

She revealed that the department has been receiving applicants as it needs some 2,067 workers to include area coordinators, area supervisors, enumerators, encoders and verifiers to do the assessment.

She said the hired applicants will conduct the reassessment on 688, 495 target households in Region IX.

In addition, another 1,040 on-ground staff will also be hired to do the reassessment in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi Tawi to 335,000 target households.

The National Household Targeting System is an information management system that identifies who and where the poor are in the country. (PIA9) 

ZamPen posts 12.4% economic growth in 2012; fastest among 17 regions

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

  

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Zamboanga Peninsula’s economic performance showed tremendous improvement from 2011 to 2012, according to the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) IX.

NSCB IX Regional Head Mewchun Pamaran, during the simultaneous nationwide media conference last July 25, broke the good news saying, “I am very proud to announce to you that our region’s economy performed tremendously last year posting 12.4 percent growth as compared to 2011’s 0.1 percent.”

Pamaran added that among 17 regions in the country, ZamPen’s 12.4 percent growth rate is the fastest in 2012.

Pamaran attributed the big improvement to the impressive performance of the industry and service sectors, two of the three sectors comprising the region’s economy, which include agriculture, hunting, forestry and fisheries.

In a comparative data released by NSCB, the industry and service sector showed increases from 2010 to last year. However, the agriculture and fisheries sectors declined from 2011’s performance.

The industry sector, which accounts for 34.8 percent of the region’s total economy, leapfrogged from just 1.5 percent growth in 2011 to a whopping 31.6 percent last year, with manufacturing subsector accounting for 27.4 percent. The service sector remained on top posting 42.7 percent growth of the region’s total economy, and Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry, and Fishing (AHFF), accounting for 22.5 percent.

The sudden surge in the industry sector, according to Pamaran, is attributed to the increased production of canned sardines. Construction, which is under the service sector, has also rebounded from a double digit deficit in 2011 of -12.3 percent to 28.3 percent last year as public and private construction increased.

Ms. Pamaran said the region’s contribution to the national economy is valued at P138 billion, which accounts for 2 percent of the national economy which is over P6 trillion.

“In terms of national contribution, our economy is at the 11^th place among the 17 regions. We improved slightly from the 12^th place in 2011. NCR has remained the biggest contributor in our national output accounting for 35.7 percent. We really hope that we can continue this improvement and become one of the key contributors in the national economy,” Pamaran said.

Rounding up the top five fastest growing regions in 2012 are CARAGA in second place with 10.6 percent, followed by Central Visayas posting 9.3 percent, Cagayan Valley with 8.2 percent, and SOCCSKSARGEN with 8.1 percent growth. (PIA9)

DOST-SETUP earmarks P35M for MSMEs in ZamPen

By Alma L. Tingcang

PAGADIAN CITY - The Department of Science and Technology –Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (DOST-SETUP), one of the government’s poverty alleviation programs through technology transfer and commercialization is making great waves in the lives of successful entrepreneurs, improving their lives and helping the community.

A flagship program of DOST towards a better Philippines,  SETUP was launched in 2011 as a nationwide strategy to encourage and assist micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt technology innovations thereby improve their operations and expand the reach of their businesses.

In a recent visit of Dr. Carol M. Yorobe, Undersecretary for Regional Operations, she said DOST Secretary Montejo believes that local technology works using the creative mind of the Filipinos. He also endeavored to increase the budget of SETUP for countryside development.

“When Sec. Montejo was chosen by President Benigno C. Aquino III to assume the post as DOST secretary, SETUP budget was only P70 million. Now it has ballooned to 500 Million for 2013 and he proposed a budget of P900 million for 2014,” Dr. Yorobe opined.

Meanwhile, Asst. Regional Director Mahmud L. Kingking said anybody in business or still contemplating a business can go to DOST for assistance, saying that DOST thinks beyond SMEs by also helping those on the poverty threshold.

“DOST provides technology needs assessment. If you don’t need technology, we will refer you to other government agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and other agencies that will assist you with financing,” ARD Kingking explained.

Among the DOST SETUP beneficiaries in Zamboanga Peninsula region are: Woodtech Builders (Kiln Dryer Facility) in Pagadian City; Deli Food Line in Molave, Zamboanga del Sur; IRA Agriculture Products of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte; ADS Bamboo Craft - Dipolog City; Bongbong Mechanical Shop – Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay and Montano Food Corporation in Dipolog City, among others.

DOST-SETUP continues to extend assistance to SMEs through technology innovations, training, preparing project proposals and the like, looking at the best possible way of improving the lives of Filipino entrepreneurs, enabling them to reach gross sales twice as their cost of input which signifies positive standing in the market and good demand by prospective clients. (PIA9)

Cerilles declares all-out war on illegal gambling

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – After successfully implementing the fight against illegal drugs in Zamboanga del Sur, the provincial officials led by Governor Antonio H. Cerilles declared on Friday an all-out war against illegal gambling.

In a press conference held at the provincial governor’s office, Cerilles said after a consultation with the provincial officials they have come up with the decision to stop and condemn all forms of illegal gambling activities.

”We condemn the existence of illegal gambling activities since these become a social menace in our society,” Cerilles pointed out.

Cerilles warned that a one-strike policy would be applied to policemen who are protectors of this nefarious activity.

“In line with the thrust of the provincial government and considering the ill effects of illegal gambling and its bad influence on our children, I have issued Executive Order No. 5 series of 2013 aimed at reconstituting the anti-illegal gambling task force in the province,” Cerilles announced.

The task force we formed, Cerilles said, “is a group that would monitor the existence of these illegal gambling activities.”

Cerilles said his administration is now focused on eliminating illegal gambling in the first 100 days. 

“Today, we are declaring an all-out war against all forms of illegal gambling activities such as video karera, illegal numbers game, etc.,” Cerilles said.

The governor also disclosed that the task force had come up with an anti-illegal gambling covenant with all its members as signatories.

“We have affixed our signature as our tangible manifestation of our strong desire, determination, and commitment to enforce all anti-illegal gambling laws and illegal gambling in the province,” stressed Cerilles.

The task force is composed of Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Director PSSupt. Thomas Abellar as chairman and NBI head agent Norman Decampong, Crime Investigation Detection Group head Chief Insp. Romulo Talay Jr.,   Provincial Public Safety Battalion Commander Supt. Michael Palermo and JH Cerilles State College’s college of law dean Atty. Domingo Redelusa IV as members.

Cerilles also urged the media to expose and lambast any local officials/law enforcers protecting illegal gambling operations.

“I appeal to the media to help me in this drive so that all of us will have one stand against illegal gambling,” Cerilles concluded. (PIA9)

Isabela City, DOLE urge barangays to support “Kasambahay” law

By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Two separate forums on Kasambahay Law were held recently in the city to raise public consciousness on Republic Act 10361 that institutes policies for the protection and welfare of domestic workers.

City Administrator Ramon Nuñal said during the forum that “this advocacy initiated by DOLE is an attempt to educate the public through the help of the stakeholders and the barangay officials, most importantly, whose role is crucial to the success of implementing the law.”

“I know we will not be 100 percent successful in our advocacy, especially among employers. Many of whom will circumvent the law and many will still refuse to obey the law. Therefore it is a challenge for us. The law identified the role of the barangay leaders to come up with a data base,” he said.

Enrico C. Flores, SSS Basilan branch head revealed that as of July 5 only 8 employers and 9 “kasambahays” (househelps) have voluntarily registered at the SSS in the city.

Recognizing the limited manpower of the local labor department, Nuñal said that the data gathered from the barangays will greatly help monitor and enforce the law and that the data will be very useful for the Social Security System, Pag-IBIG and PhiHealth.

Cyrus P. Tingcang of DOLE region 9 said that “the law protects both the employer and employee as each is now bound with a contract where the obligation of each is stipulated.”

Tingcang stressed that barangays must establish a Kasambahay desk where the registry of household workers in the barangay is set up to facilitate rescue of distressed workers.

Engr. Wesley D. Tan, officer-in-charge of DOLE Isabela City Field Office said that “R.A. 10361 is the fulfillment of the Philippine’s commitment and obligation to afford greater protection to domestic household service worker (Kasambahay) and the Philipines ratified ILO convention 189 known as Decent Work for Domestic Workers in 2012.”

Dubbed “learning session on Kasambahay Law,” DOLE-Isabela City conducted forums on July 5 and 16 for barangay chairpersons and selected officials, including various government line agencies and the local government unit of Isabela, and for the kasambahays and their employers, respectively.

During the sessions salient features of the law were discussed, including obligations of employers and Kasambahays to SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. TESDA also introduced its programs that may help kasambahays enhance their skills. (PIA9)

P300-M set for BUB agriculture projects in 2014 for region 9

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Agriculture (DA) here reveals that P300 million has been earmarked for the implementation of irrigation, farm-to-market roads, farmers’ capability-building trainings and other agriculture-related projects in region 9 for the year 2014. But P30 million is allotted for this city alone.

Ramon Raul Bucoy, the Agriculture Production Center Officer of DA-9 said in a press conference held Wednesday at the Grand Astoria Hotel that these projects would be implemented through the national government’s Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB) process in which community, city and municipal stakeholders including the residents, civil society groups and other sectors are directly consulted on the identification of the priority projects.

In 2013, Zamboanga City received a total of P15 million for the BUB, mostly for irrigation projects.

Under the BUB, local people’s organizations such as farmers and fisher folks are consulted on their problems, needs and situation. As proof of the participatory process, the list of priority projects must be signed by representatives of such organizations, which will eventually be endorsed to the appropriate agency.

The BUB is being implemented jointly by the DA and other agencies under the Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cluster, the Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Cluster and the Economic Development Cluster. Its aim is to reduce the country’s poverty incidence to 16.6 percent by 2015, from 26.5 percent in 2009.

Bucoy said that “since the stakeholders themselves helped in identifying these projects under the BUB, we are ensured that these will indeed have a positive effect on their communities, particularly on enhancing their income and productivity as farmers.” (PIA9)

DA-9 holds media forum in Dipolog City

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - Motivated by the recognition of the agency’s efforts in the last State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) of President Benigno Aquino III, the Department of Agriculture (DA)-9 recently held a media forum on Food Staples Sufficiency Program(FSSP) in Dipolog City.

The half-day forum, which was held Thursday morning at Mibang Hotel here, was attended by municipal mayors, municipal agriculturists, media men and representatives of some local chief executives in Zamboanga del Norte.

Representing Mayor Evelyn T. Uy, Councilor Peter Y. Co welcomed the participants and expressed his thanks to the DA for holding said activity in the city.

DA-9 Regional Technical Director (RTD) for Extension, LGU Support and Infrastructure Constancio Alama pointed out the importance of food stables that could substitute for rice in the dining table.  

Food Staples Sufficiency Program is the banner program of DA’s Agrikulturang Pilipino (Agri-Pinoy) framework.

He said “food self-sufficiency is not only concerned with increasing production level but enhancing rural productivity and global competitiveness,” adding “it is not only about supply catching up with demand, but includes the management of demand or consumption.”

Among the food staples that could substitute for rice but contain similar food nutrients as rice are corn, camote, cassava, banana, adlai, and taro. “These crops easily grow in our own farm,” he said.

Among the components of the FSSP program include irrigation, farm-to-market roads and other infrastructures, post-harvest facilities and other mechanization, research and extension, marketing, credit, demand management and policy environment.

RTD Alama also reported the success of DA in implementing various programs that led to the reduction of rice importation and exportation of locally produced rice to other parts of the world.

The rice importation of the country was reduced from 2.4 million metric tons in 2010 to 187,000 metric tons this year, while achieving almost 98 percent rice production in 2012.

Recently, DA has reported to have exceeded their 100 metric tons target for rice export this year. According to Agriculture Sec. Proceso Alcala, the shipment of 45 metric tons to Singapore last July 22, 2013 brought the total rice export to 106 metric tons. (PIA9)

DENR 9 holds exhibits on ENR technologies, programs

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-9) has held this week “Exhibit 2013” featuring Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Technologies and Programs at the lobby of the City Commercial Center (C3) this city.

Anchored on the theme, “Rediscovering Research in Zamboanga Peninsula,” Regional Technical Director Gil T. Ona of the Ecosystems Research and Development Services (ERDS) said the weeklong activity presented “the magnanimous contribution of research to the development of Zamboanga Peninsula” adding “no projects have been implemented by DENR without passing through thorough research.”

“It is our hope that by this exhibit, we will successfully develop public awareness on what DENR has been doing in preserving, conserving and sustaining the environment,” Ona stressed.

In his message, Regional Executive Director Arleigh J. Adorable emphasized that the exhibit was not only made to showcase DENR’s successes in research - completed and on-going researches - but to present the agency’s accomplishments of protecting and developing the natural resources in the region as well.

City Mayor Romeo Pulmones whose message was read by City Administrator Vrixsio Daniel said: “This exhibit is very timely for everyone to be awakened and to brace himself for an active participation in the mission of DENR.”

“Let us not entrust everything to DENR. We have to do our share because this problem on climate change that we are facing today affects you and me and the entire populace,” the mayor pointed out.

“Now is the time to refrain from committing the ‘sins of commission and of omission’ and let us put a stop to abuses against the environment. Instead, let us pursue the good programs and activities being spearheaded by the DENR. Let us take a serious part in the work now,” urged Pulmones. (PIA9)

Lamitan first couple clears speculations on political abuse

By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY – Former Lamitan City mayor and vice-mayor-elect Roderick H. Furigay has clarified speculations on alleged political abuse by a husband-and-wife tandem to lead both the executive and legislative branches of the local government unit.

In a press statement, city information officer Felipe Fernando said that speculations arose as majority of the elected city councilors are allies of the present administration.

Mayor Rosita U. Furigay is said to easily get the cooperation of the city council as only four of the councilors belong to the opposition and his husband as the vice mayor.

“Some sectors are apprehensive about the abuse of power, that the chief executive and the presiding officer are couple,” the vice mayor said.

But he gave his assurance that transparency, accountability and good governance will be defended and protected at all cost.

He urged the opposition in the council to remain opposition to be able to check and balance government transactions.

“But be a constructive opposition,” he added.

 “This is the first time to happen in the history of Lamitan and we will prove to you that there is nothing wrong with the husband and wife team,” Mayor Rose said.

The inaugural session was being attended by more than a thousand audiences coming from different sectors in the government and NGO’s.

Meanwhile, elected mayor Rosita U. Furigay, presented her priority projects and express for support from the councils.

“We cannot live in comfort in the midst of disorder, if our economy cannot meet the basic needs of our constituents, if our infrastructure falls short in supporting the mobility of our farmers, fisherfolks, our city could not be in the position to welcome visitors from other places if it is in clutter.”

Thus, the Rose administration outlined and presented the 100 days priority projects to include the following: procurement of additional one unit garbage truck and paraphernalia for garbage collectors, provision of trash tins, purchase of Lot for garbage dumpsite, increase in salary of Job Orders from 4,000.00 to 5,000.00 by next year, full implementation of traffic code and augment the existing traffic enforcers , acquisition of 6,000 sq. mtrs for madrasa learning center for primary, secondary and tertiary, Philhealth for 4000 indigent families, concreting of roads, construction of Multi-purpose Hall, construction of Sta Clara basketball court, water supply in Barangay Luksumbang, construction of Street Lights, continued Scholarship Grants to qualified indigents, transfer of Motorpool to a 2,000 square-meter space in Lagasan, P1000.00 to each Barangay Health Workers as counterpart from the city government, and P500.00 allowance for the CVO’s. (PIA9)

A better life for PWDs through “Kabuhayan”

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – Persons with disabilities (PWDs) are often overlooked, neglected and deprived of their needs by society and many times denied involvement in decision-making that affects their very existence. 

  

But this deplorable situation never happened in this municipality situated in the southern part of Zamboanga del Sur.

In Lapuyan, which is predominantly inhabited by Subanens, the PWDs were given access to livelihood by the local government.

LGU/DSWD Support

It was in 2011 that Mayor Daylinda Sulong established a livelihood project for PWDs dubbed “Kabuhayan.” The good mayor chose a retired teacher, Josefina Semini to become the “Kabuhayan” project coordinator.  With an initial funding of P100,000.00, the project sought to improve the well-being of PWDs starting with only 13 members.

At the inception of the project, it was Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC) superintendent Fatima Caminan of DSWD in Zamboanga City who introduced the idea of providing free skills training for PWDs.

Skills Training

Five PWDs were brought to the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center III, DSWD in  Zamboanga City for a free one year to six months skills training while their transportation and accommodation were shouldered by the LGU. They were trained as masseur, tailor, barber, carpenter, and other skills.

Semini said with a job to do, they feel important and are able to eventually become independent.

“The lady chief executive was concerned with the plight of our PWDs who were neglected in the past.  She then established a livelihood center called Lapuyan Kabuhayan Center: The Home for the Disadvantaged and Vulnerable Sectors.

Mayor Sulong said the building which is patterned after DSWD’s AVRC III became the home for the most disadvantaged and vulnerable groups of the municipality.

“This will be their home where they will enhance their skills to be more productive, and eventually gain employment thereby becoming good citizens of the community,” Sulong announced.

“She designed and implemented livelihood programs and activities in order to promote access, inclusion and the full participation of persons with disabilities in our municipality. The project provides help to PWDs to live a normal life,” she added.

“We encouraged them to hone their skills for them to become productive, self-sufficient, and to live fruitful lives. They don’t need our pity, they need our love and encouragement,” said Semini quoting mayor Sulong.

The LGU’s support was observed by the agency which prompted AVRC Superintendent Fatima Caminan to visit the municipality and proposed employment opportunities for the PWDs which was then approved by the chief executive.

Employment opportunities

Thirty-one year-old Jezrel Langhay of Waterfall, Lapuyan  said no one would ever thought that despite their handicap, there are still kind-hearted people who care and offer new hope for them.

“Nagpasalamat ko ug dako sa administrasyon ni Mayor Sulong ug sa DSWD nga ila kaming gitabangan nga mga disabled persons makapangita ug trabaho.  Wala mi magdahum nga bisan pa sa kakulian sa among panglawas adunay mga manggiloy-on nga mga tawo nga nag-amuma ug naghatag bag-ong paglaum kanamo. (I am deeply grateful that the administration of Mayor Sulong and the DSWD helped us, disabled persons in looking for a job. We did not expect that despite our handicap, there are still kind-hearted people who care and offer new hope for us),” said Langhay, the eldest in a family of six.

Dako ang akong kalipay tungod kay nakatabang ako sa akong pamilya. Ang akong kita isip mananahi gihatag nako sa akong ginikanan aron mapalit namo ug pagkaon. Sa una, masulob-on ako tungod kay anaa ra man ko sulod sa balay ug walay trabaho ug karon duna na ako’y trabaho (I am very happy because I was able to help my family. I give my earnings as a tailor   to my parents so we could buy food for the family. I used to be sad because I only stay in the house, jobless and with nothing to do, but now, I already have a job),” Langhay happily said.

Semini said PWDs are now receiving P2,000 to 3,000 each from DSWD as  incentives.

“There are many programs available for all sorts of disabilities in our municipality,” Semini said . If they are encouraged and learn to believe in themselves, there is no reason they will not flourish.

“With a job to do, they feel important and eventually become productive and independent,” Semini concluded. (PIA9)

DSWD conducts mass registration of Sabah DPs

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-IX will be conducting a mass registration of Displaced Persons (DPs) and families affected by Sabah conflict. The MR will be conducted starting August 5 to 9, 2013.

DSWD-IX Regional Information Officer Narabelle Z. Bue said the department is currently preparing concrete and complete data banking of Sabah DPs to pinpoint and identify their whereabouts and their total number (population) in the region.

“The data that DSWD will be able to generate will help us pinpoint who and where the Sabah DPs are in the region,” RIO Bue said.

Bue said the data collected “may also be used as basis for the formulation and conceptualization of programs and projects for their benefit.”

The profile may serve as a guide in the department’s efforts and even other agencies and organizations goal to assist the Sabah DPs in the region and as a basis in formulating and developing policies and programs intended for them.

The MR targets Sabah DPs who failed or refused to register in the “One-Stop Shop Processing Center (OSPC) set up by DSWD in Taganak Island.

“Ang nangyari kasi sila (DPs) mismo, they refused government help, o baka napapagod sila sa proseso kaya umuwi sila on their own, sakay ng bangka, kung baga nag “back-door” sila pabalik, di sila sumakay ng commercial vessel being provided to them by the government (What happened was they refused government help themselves. Perhaps, they got tired of the process, they went home on their own using other boats and not the commercial vessels provided for them),” Bue explained.

“We call on all those affected by the Sabah conflict which started March of this year, we are reaching out to them, encouraging them to please register with the DSWD offices in your area so you may be included in government assistance intended for your benefit,” Bue appealed.

Bue advises DPs to bring proof or travel documents upon registration.

The mass registration will be conducted in the cities of Zamboanga, Pagadian, Dipolog, Dapitan, and Isabela and in Liloy, Zamboanga Del Norte and Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay. (PIA9)

353 agrarian reform-related cases resolved – DAR

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) here reports that it has resolved a total of 353 cases under its agrarian reform legal assistance program.

In a press conference held earlier today, DAR Regional Director Julita Ragandang said her office handled judicial, quasi-judicial, agrarian law implementation cases and mediation involving 398 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) from all over region 9 from January to June of this year.

The common cases that the DAR handles are land tenure problems, like when tenant-farmers are asked to vacate their lands by the owners, without just compensation. 

Director Ragandang also reported that a number of cases involving agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) are still pending right now. “We handle many cases, and the parties involved should help us resolve this by constant follow-up,” she said.

“Just like in the courts, cases with the DAR have no specific timetable. We share the same restrictions as those in the courts,” she stressed.

The DAR is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) with the theme “Security of Land Tenure, Justice for the Farmers.” (PIA9)

School principals, guidance counselors play vital role in preventing teenage pregnancy, says POPCOM-9 chief

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY – “School principals and guidance counselors play a vital role in guiding and teaching teenage students aged 11 years old and above on the dire consequences of pre-marital sex,” said Population Commission (POPCOM)- 9 Regional Director  Reynaldo O. Wong during the World Population Day celebration recently.

Wong underscored the importance of inculcating in the minds of the teenagers the value of preserving their chastity, not only to gain respect from their would-be espouses but to avoid the negative effects of unplanned pregnancy.

Some of the negative effects of teenage pregnancy are the unfair treatment from peers, forced marriage, financial woes and others.

Based on the record of National Youth Commission (NYC), the Philippines got the third highest incidence rate of teenage pregnancy in Southeast Asia.

Wong urged all school principals and guidance counselors to help in solving the increasing incidence rate of teenage pregnancy by making students understand by heart the dire effects of engaging in pre-marital sex.

“It is a big heartbreak for a family if one female member got pregnant in her adolescence. Teenage pregnancy is not only the responsibility of the parents but the local government also so that our teenagers would feel more love, care and support,” Mayor Evelyn T. Uy said.

The lady mayor expressed her deep gratitude to the Zamboanga del Norte Federation of Parents Association (ZNFEPA), POPCOM and other stakeholders for giving the youth lectures on how to avoid pre-marital sex.

Uy also reminded that good moral and spiritual values will help guide young to a dignified life. (PIA9)

DPWH starts upgrading of coastal road to boost agri-tourism in Zambo. Norte

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-9 continues to implement vital road projects in Zamboanga Peninsula to spur economic growth and address road congestions with the upgrading of the Rizal-Dakak-Dapitan coastal road.

DPWH-9 Information Officer Ma. Carla Miñoza said, “The road provides a new link between the City of Dapitan and the municipalities of Rizal and Sibutad, traversing an area with high potential for agricultural development and especially tourism. The road also serves as an alternate road to improve the traffic condition of Zamboanga del Norte.”

The project involves the concreting of the existing 41.558 kilometer road, two lanes, 6.70 meter wide carriageway, concrete sidewalk, slope protection works, bridges and other various minor structures.

It also includes the replacement of two temporary bridges, the Kanim and Balubohan bridges.

Miñoza said the total project cost is P991.83 million including the two bridges. Of the total amount, P283.90 million was taken from the DPWH’s 2012-2013 budget under the General Appropriations Act (GAA).

The remaining cost, Miñoza added, will be taken from next year’s budget and other sources.

“The remaining P707.93M to complete the two-lane road will be considered in the DPWH 2014 allocation and succeeding budgets or will be sourced from any available funds,” she explained.

DPWH-9 has also started the 34-kilometer bypass road here in Zamboanga City.

Regional Director Jorge Sebastian, in his previous statement said, “This road will provide a direct route for business from the neighboring cities of Dipolog and Pagadian, and other municipalities in the peninsula to Zamboanga Free Port Zone, which is situated in San Ramon.”

Miñoza said there are still other projects lined up to improve infrastructures in the region that will greatly boost the region’s economy. (PIA9)

LEaDGov Project to enhance LGU governance, dev’t planning

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Targeted to boost and enhance capacities of local government units (LGUs) that will lead to an improved governance and development planning, the Local Empowerment and Development towards Good Governance (LEaDGov) project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) was recently launched in Zamboanga City with representatives from Siayan and Tungawan municipalities in attendance.

DSWD Regional Information Officer (RIO) Narabelle Z. Bue in a news release said the project will be implemented in three regions in the Philippines covering Regions 9, 5 and CARAGA.

Siayan in Zamboanga del Norte and Tungawan in Zamboanga Sibugay are the target municipalities for the LEaDGov project.

“LEaDGov, is a joint project of DSWD and the Agencia Española de Cooperacion Internacional para el Desarollo (AECID) which focuses on providing capacity building trainings to LGUs,” Bue said.

“Within 20 months the AECID shall fund the capability-building activities focused on improving local government units’ capacity to undertake community-driven development processes and resource mobilization,” the active lady RIO explained.

“LEaDGov project has an expected total cost of PhP13,975,000.00, of this amount, PhP 10,750,000 will come from the AECID grant, while the remaining PhP3,225,000.00 will be funded by the Philippine government,” Bue explained further.

During the LEaDGov launching, DSWD Central Office representative Mr. Orson Sta. Cruz presented the Project outputs while Mr. Elpidio Lapad of DSWD 9 discussed the competency assessment of the two (2) LGUs and the capacity-building plan which will start this quarter.

“The program is expected to bring about improvement on the part of the LGU in the conduct of their roles and in the delivery of services to their constituents,” Bue said. (PIA9)

Scale insects hit coco plants in Basilan, says PCA-9

By Franklin P. Gumapon

ZAMBOANGA CITY – After Batangas, coconut scale insects have found their way to the island-province of Basilan, prompting the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)-9 to conduct massive leaf pruning of infected coconut plants.

In a briefing held here Friday for Information Center Managers (ICMs) of Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9, Rudy B. Corsame, PCA chief of Isabela City in Basilan, reported that some 6,000 coconut trees in 15 barangays of said city got infested with scale insect.

Scale insects (Aspidiotus destructor), which are considered plant parasites, feed on the sap from the plant’s vascular system resulting in the yellowing of leaves progressing to drying and wilting in young and old palms. This pest also attacks ornamental plants and fruit trees like mango, lanzones, mango, mangosteen, guava, papaya, avocado and others.

To control the pest, the PCA recommends leaf pruning of affected coconut trees to reduce its reproduction and to prevent its spread to other areas. It also embarks on biological control by releasing “coccinellid predators” that feed on scale insects.

Local quarantine regulations shall also be strengthened to avoid the transport of infested plants, coconut planting materials and other plants that may introduce the pest to other non-outbreak areas.

PCA theorized that the scale insect outbreak was wrought by “imbalance or loss of natural enemies” due to excessive use of pesticides or by natural causes such as long drought and climate change.

Reports reaching the Regional Development Council (RDC)-9 said scale insect had attacked fruit trees particularly lanzones in some parts of Zamboanga Peninsula. However, the Department of Agriculture (DA)-9 is still investigating the said report.

For its part, PIA-9 led by Regional Director Noemi Edaga has assured both the PCA and DA of its help in their information campaign on the prevention and control of scale insect infestation. (PIA9)

DOH-ARMM turns-over three units speedboat-type ambulance to Tawi-Tawi

By Nash Tahang

BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi - Three units of a speedboat-type sea ambulance were turned-over to the provincial government of Tawi-Tawi by Department of Health-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DOH-ARMM) in a simple ceremony Friday at Lomboy wharf in this municipality.

Governor Nurbert Sahali received the sea ambulance from DOH-ARMM Secretary Dr. Kadil Sinolinding after the ribbon cutting ceremony symbolizing the formal turnover of the fast craft to the provincial government.

Sahali said the three speedboat–type ambulances are of great help to the people in the island municipalities as these will hasten the patient’s mobility to the nearest hospital.  “It will help save lives,” he added.

He said Tawi-Tawi, which is composed of island municipalities, really needs sea transportations.

“We will dispatch the first three sea ambulances to the Municipalities of Panglima Sugala, Sapa-Sapa, and Sibutu,” Sahali stressed. 

He also conveyed his gratitude to the national government and the ARMM for the grant of special projects that are directly beneficial to the people.

Meanwhile, Dr. Sukarno Asri, provincial health officer, revealed that seven motorized “jungkung” or pump boats will also be dispatched to Tawi-Tawi by DOH-ARMM as part of special projects to help the island municipalities address the need for fast transportation by their constituencies. (FPG/FDM/ PIA9-ZBST)

GSIS awards scholarships for 200 grantees for AY 2013-2014

By Alma L. Tingcang

PAGADIAN CITY - Two hundred scholars from all over the country have been chosen by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) for its scholarship program for Academic Year (AY)2013-2014.

GSIS President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara has approved the GSIS Scholarship Program of 200 grantees on July 11, 2013 based on the following criteria: status of employment (permanent); length of service (at least 3 years); and lowest annual basic salary.

Engr. Leoncito S. Manuel, GSIS branch head here said that for Region IX, seven scholars have been chosen, namely: Amores, Frances Claire – Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology; Entienza, Betchyjoy Doring – Western Mindanao State University; Juaton, Keena Escote – Western Mindanao State University; Lozano, Allan Joseph Escano – Ateneo de Zamboanga University; Lumindas, Nova Mae Berug – Western Mindanao State University; Pimentel, Cassandra Nicole Jimenez – Ateneo de Zamboanga University and Singue, Elzon Esquirdo – Western Mindanao State University.

Manuel said qualifiers are advised to accomplish and submit the documentary requirements to GSIS within 30 days from the first day of publication of the list in a newspaper of general circulation.

He added that the grantees are required to submit the following:  signed and notarized Scholarship Contract; duly accomplished Scholar Information Sheet; certified true copy of scholar’s birth certificate; certified true copy of Registration and Enrollment Assessment Form for first semester AY 2013-2014; original copy of official receipts (for reimbursement of payment for first semester AY 2013-2014); and course curriculum.

For more information, parents and scholars are invited to visit the Branch Scholarship Coordinator at the nearest GSIS Office.  (PIA9)

LEaDGov Project to enhance LGU governance, dev’t planning

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Targeted to boost and enhance capacities of local government units (LGUs) that will lead to an improved governance and development planning, the Local Empowerment and Development towards Good Governance (LEaDGov) project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) was recently launched in Zamboanga City with representatives from Siayan and Tungawan municipalities in attendance.

DSWD Regional Information Officer (RIO) Narabelle Z. Bue in a news release said the project will be implemented in three regions in the Philippines covering Regions 9, 5 and CARAGA.

Siayan in Zamboanga del Norte and Tungawan in Zamboanga Sibugay are the target municipalities for the LEaDGov project.

“LEaDGov, is a joint project of DSWD and the Agencia Española de Cooperacion Internacional para el Desarollo (AECID) which focuses on providing capacity building trainings to LGUs,” Bue said.

“Within 20 months the AECID shall fund the capability-building activities focused on improving local government units’ capacity to undertake community-driven development processes and resource mobilization,” the active lady RIO explained.

“LEaDGov project has an expected total cost of PhP13,975,000.00, of this amount, PhP 10,750,000 will come from the AECID grant, while the remaining PhP3,225,000.00 will be funded by the Philippine government,” Bue explained further.

During the LEaDGov launching, DSWD Central Office representative Mr. Orson Sta. Cruz presented the Project outputs while Mr. Elpidio Lapad of DSWD 9 discussed the competency assessment of the two (2) LGUs and the capacity-building plan which will start this quarter.

“The program is expected to bring about improvement on the part of the LGU in the conduct of their roles and in the delivery of services to their constituents,” Bue said. (PIA9)

OSPC sets up passport enrolment services in Bongao for Sabah repatriates

By Mary Jane R. Amarado

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has recently established a Temporary Passport Enrolment Center (TPEC) at the One-Stop Processing Center (OSPC ) in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi for Sabah deportees and displaced persons (DPs).

In a report to Labor Secretary Rosalinda D. Baldoz and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Carmelita Dimzon, Hassan Gabra Jumdain, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Regional Director and head of the OSPC Operations in Sulu &Tawi-Tawi said the establishment of the TPEC was the result of meetings and consultation with different member-agencies involved in the OSPC and the Memorandum of Agreement signed on April 30, 2013 bearing the commitment of the different duty bearers

"The undertaking was a joint effort of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), OWWA, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), DFA, Crisis Management Committee and the Provincial Government of Tawi-Tawi through former Governor, Sadikul Sahali, and his son, newly elected Governor Nurbert Sahali," Jumdain stated.

  

According to Jumdain, DFA Undersecretary Rafael E. Seguis assured OSPC duty-bearers of the foreign affairs of the department’s continuing support and commitment to the success of the OSPC in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi towards the fulfillment of its mandate to address the needs of Filipino nationals from Sabah.

The TPEC accommodates passport applicants, especially deportees and displaced persons who plan to return to Sabah for re-employment, regular passport applicants, and Hajj applicants, including crew members of sea vessels engaged in barter trading.

It is composed of a seven members led by Director Evangeline Cayongcat. The team process passport applications from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm at the Provincial Capitol, Mondays to Fridays. To date, TEPC has already served more than 600 passport applicants.

A passport applicant must present a birth certificate duly authenticated by the National Statistics Office; DSWD certification attesting to the status of the applicant as a Sabah deportee; and a National Commission for Muslim Filipinos certificate of tribal affiliation. The TPEC charges P950 for every new passport application and a processing fee of P1,200 for passport renewal.

The OSPC is a special program of the DOLE through the OWWA which serves as a venue for the implementation of an integrated and systematic welfare assistance program for returning overseas Filipino workers and repatriates from Malaysia.

Jumdain urges his fellow Tawi-Tawians to take advantage of the DFA’s service, saying that the TPEC team will hold its special operations only for a period of one month. (FPG/MJRA/OWWA9/PIA9/ALT)