Zambo City officials sign “One Zamboanga City” pact

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - To acknowledge the need to address the urgent development and governance challenges of the city, the city officials recently signed a social contract for “One Zamboanga City”.

Public Information Officer-City Mayor’s Office (PIO-CMO) Belen Covarrubias said the social contract provides the framework for the city’s roadmap of development in the next three years.

Covarrubias said the social contract is geared toward addressing development and governance challenges through the collective and collaborative efforts of the leaders and the full participation of the citizenry.

“The signed covenant affirms the commitment of the local officials to continue the process of completing the Executive and Legislative Agenda (ELA) and other equally important initiatives and plans to bring Zamboanga City to a progressive state,” Covarrubias stressed.

“The covenant highlights the desire of all city officials to transcend personal, political and ideological interests and come out as one, united, transparent and constituency-driven government,” she added.   

The said social contract signing was led by Mayor Beng Climaco, Vice Mayor Cesar Iturralde and the members of the city council during the recently concluded three-day intensive ELA training at the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) in Tagaytay City. 

The training is a certificate course on Strategic Management in Local Governance discussing topics on Bridging Leadership, Challenges of Governance and Development and ELA formulation. (PIA9)

Anti-illegal gambling drive stepped up in Pagadian

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – Twenty four units of video karera machines (VKMs) confiscated by policemen were destroyed Tuesday by the Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office (ZSPPO) at Camp Abelon headquarters this city. 

Provincial Director Senior Superintendent Thomas Abellar, the Anti-Illegal Gambling Task Force (AIGTF) chair, led the destruction of the VKMs as witnessed by the local media and the public.

A pay loader pounded on the VKMs until completely destroyed. 

Abellar in an interview said “the government is serious in its campaign against illegal gambling operations in the province.”

“The destruction of VKMs meant to show that the government is serious in its campaign against illegal gambling,” Abellar said adding that “the existence of illegal gambling is a social menace in our society.”

Abellar said he is proud of the Provincial Public Safety Company (PPSC) operatives for the successful seizure of VKMs from operators. 

He said the operations conducted by his men, was in response to the directive issued by Governor Antonio Cerilles on July 26 to stamp out all forms of illegal gambling activities in the province.

“I am warning the operators to stop engaging in illegal gambling activities to avoid being penalized for violation of gambling laws,” Abellar declared. “We will pursue our operations against illegal gambling activities until these will be completely stopped,” he added.

Abellar also warned the illegal gambling operators that the government would never hesitate to file formal charges against them if they continue to operate VKMs in their establishments. 

“We will also file charges against unscrupulous cops who act as maintainers or protectors of gambling machine operations,” Abellar emphatically stated.  (PIA9)

3Y program calls for renewed commitment among tourism stakeholders

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY - The 3Y Group of Zamboanga del Norte convened last week for the 3Y Expansion, Orientation and Program Implementation Review at the Top Plaza Hotel this city. 

The 3Y Group, which refers to “One Locality, One Industry and One Service Quality,” is composed of various tourism stakeholders from the national government agencies, local government units, academe and private sectors.

Among the core members are the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), the city government of Dapitan, Jose Rizal Memorial State University, Philippine Airlines (PAL),  Dapitan City Hotel and Resto Association, Dapitan City Operators and Drivers’ Association and the Dipolog-Dapitan-Polanco-Katipunan-Roxas (DDPKaRoMa) Alliance.

Formed in 2011 through the efforts of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board IX (RTWPB), the 3Y group aims to provide excellent service and quality products for the satisfaction of both the customers and stakeholders.

“We are all tourism stakeholders and we are here for one purpose to renew our commitment towards our goal as one locality, one industry and one service quality,” DOLE-Zamboanga del Norte head Henry P. Tianero said.

“3Y focuses on service quality for workers’ skills enhancement, job-seekers’ employability and promotion of employment through involvement, convergence and partnership with all tourism stakeholders,” explained DDPKaRoMa  alliance project manager Ma. Teresa B. De Jesus.

Former Dapitan City Mayor Patri Jing B. Chan said that “in 3Y all are the same and treated as equal regardless of rank and position in the government and society.” Chan is operating a pension house in Dapitan City. 

 “At first, we were hesitant to be part of this group and to attend seminars provided by them because if we will not work for a certain day means no income for us. But as we worked with other members, we feel as one family with equal treatment to one another,” shared Victoriano Victoriano, president of the Skycap Porters Association in Dipolog.

“3Y is a program pioneered by us that can be replicated nationwide,” said Hilda Hamoy, owner of Home Sweet Home by the Bay in Dapitan City. (PIA9)

1st Infantry Division hosts RDC-IX reorganizational meeting

By Franklin P. Gumapon

LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur – Members of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-IX have converged at the A-210 Hall of the 1^st Infantry Tabak Division in Barangay Pulacan in this municipality for a reorganizational meeting yesterday.

Acting RDC-IX chair Teresita Socorro C. Ramos, Regional Director, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA)-IX, was humbled to see how the 1^st Infantry Tabak Division headed by BGen. Felicito Virgilio M Trinidad Jr. prepared for the occasion.

With the 1^st Infantry Tabak Division hosting the reorganization meeting of RDC-IX, Ramos profusely expressed her gratitude to BGen. Trinidad for “the very nice setup” in which the members were each provided with microphones and monitors to facilitate discussion and presentation of the conference agenda.

Attending the meeting were the regional directors and representatives of the different line agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Education (DepED), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Social Welfare and Development, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Fiber Industry Development Authority (FIDA), National Youth Commission (NYC), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Agriculture (DA), Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Land transportation Office (LTO), National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

Provincial governors Roberto Y. Uy of Zamboanga del Norte, Antonio Cerilles of Zamboanga del Sur and Wilter Y. Palma of Zamboanga Sibugay together with city mayors Evelyn T. Uy of Dipolog, Romeo Pulmones of Pagadian City and Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar of Zamboanga City were also present in the said meeting.

Other RDC members who came and attended the meeting were Ipil town mayor Eldwin M. Alibutdan, Liloy town mayor Felixberto Bolando, President, League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP)-Zamboanga del Norte, and 11 Private Sector Representatives (PSRs).

BGen. Trinidad gave a briefing on the peace and order situation of his area of responsibility (AOR) which covers regions 9, 10 and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) with seven provinces, 13 cities and 141 municipalities. He said his AOR is now confronted with three major threats, namely, the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), CPP-NPA-NDF (CNN) and lawless elements that are engaged in sea piracy, extortion, kidnapping and other criminal activities.

On the other hand, NSCB-IX regional head Dr. Mewchun W.S. Pamaran, also presented the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) of Zamboanga Peninsula for calendar year 2012, saying the region posted more than 12 percentage growth – the fastest growth among the 17 regions in the country. Statistics also showed that the upsurge in Zamboanga Peninsula’s economy was observed in manufacturing and construction. However, the overall rank of the region in terms of its share to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2012 was only number 11. (PIA-9) 

DTI-ARMM conducts joint regional-provincial planning workshop

By Felipo David G. Malcampo

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Trade and Industry of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DTI-ARMM) is now conducting a two-day joint regional and provincial planning workshop in this city at the Silsilah Dialogue Movement-Harmony Village in Barangay Sinunuc starting Aug. 28 – 29.

Attending the said activity are the agency’s key officials from the provincial and regional offices with speakers and facilitators coming from DTI’s national office and regional offices.

DTI-ARMM Regional Secretary Sakiran A. Hajan said that the planning workshop aimed to chart the course of the agency until the ARMM will be finally turned-over to the Bangsamoro political entity in 2015.

“The workshop also serves as a teambuilding activity to strengthen cooperation and collaboration among the agency’s employees,” Hajan added.

Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman cited Hajan’s exemplary record as chairman and management head of the Regional Board of Investments (RBOI), which brought about multi-million  business investment and employment opportunities in the autonomous region. Governor Hataman expressed his confidence that Hajan can do more as DTI-ARMM Secretary. (PIA9) 

PNoy bats for total rural electrification

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – With the implementation of Sitio Electrification Program (SEP) and the Barangay Line Enhancement Program (BLEP) of the present administration through the National Electrification Administration (NEA), a total rural electrification is projected to achieve before President Aquino’s term ends.

Zamboanga del Sur Electric Cooperative I (ZAMSURECO I) Information Officer Liberal Cabatcha during a media forum on Thursday reported that as of July 1, 2013 there are still 23,860 un-energized sitios and puroks all over the country.

These un-energized sitios and puroks are set to be energized on the following target schedules: 2013 – 10,394 sitios with a total budget of P7.38 million, 2014 - 7,073 sitios with a budget of P6.36 million, and 2015 – 7,291 with an approximately budget of P7.3 million. “The budget allocation will come from the national government,” Cabatcha said.

It can be recalled President Aquino signed Republic Act 10531 on May 9, 2013 and mandated the National Electrification Administration (NEA) to implement total electrification by way of enhancing distribution system development of electric cooperatives.

Under this electrification program, the first 30 indigent member-consumers who will apply for connection in a sitio or purok are entitled to receive P2,500 worth of electrical materials, to include free kilowatt meter, 30-60 meters service drop wire and free installation inside the house. Instead of a private electrician to do the work, a lineman of the electric coop will do the installation, Cabatcha explained.

Meanwhile, ZAMSURECO I has 1,032 sitios and puroks to be energized under this program with a budget allocation of P94,109,193.96 from the national government through the NEA.

ZAMSURECO I has joined this year’s celebration of National Electrification Awareness Month with the theme, “Electricity: An Enabler in Improving Lives in the Countryside.” (PIA9)

Senior citizens advised to be ready with OSCA IDs, other documents to get 20% discount

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - To avoid any inconveniences when availing of the 20 percent discount from pharmacies, senior citizens are advised to bring with them the purchase booklet with their OSCA identification card and the doctor’s prescription, or, if they are incapacitated and cannot personally purchase medicines, an authorization letter for their representative.

In an interview, Office of Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) center head Nelinda Saipudin reiterated that pharmacies and drugstores are mandated by law to comply with the discount, however, senior citizens should be prepared with the necessary documents required of them.

“The discount is for senior citizens only, but sometimes, other persons may take advantage of this to buy medicine not necessarily intended for the elderly using the OSCA ID,” said Ms. Saipudin.

She furthered that the law also provides for a five percent discount on basic commodities such as, but not limited to rice, corn, bread, fish, meat; and prime commodities like fruits, dairy products, noodles, onion, garlic and others. The complete list of items is stipulated in the new Senior Citizens’ Purchase Slip, which the OSCA will release soon. Meanwhile, the purchase should not exceed P1,300 in a week.

However, Ms. Saipudin clarified that only stores and supermarkets with a capitalization of over P100,000 are mandated to comply with the five percent discount. Sari-sari stores, food courts, and flea markets are excluded.

In addition, the OSCA head said that she had already spoke with retailers and pharmacies in the city to honor only commodity purchase slips with an OSCA stamp, which can be secured at their office. Also, for those senior citizens who have already filled up their old medicine purchase booklet, they may simply get their doctor’s prescription stamped at the OSCA for them to be honored with the discount in pharmacies and drugstores. 

“We have to take these necessary measures to prevent non-senior citizens from taking advantage and abusing the discounts,” she said.

However, in the event when pharmacies and business establishments still do not grant the discount in spite of having all the necessary documents, Ms. Saipudin invited the senior citizens to bring their complaints at the OSCA.

Earlier this month, Zamboanga City Mayor Ma. Isabelle G. Climaco-Salazar issued an executive order mandating all pharmacies and drugstores to seriously comply with the provisions of the law with regard to granting the discount. The OSCA, PWD Affairs office, and the City Social Welfare and Development Office are tasked to strictly monitor pharmacies, drugstores and other business establishments in the city.

Republic Act 9994 provides that establishments that do not comply with the discount may be imprisoned for not less than two years with a fine not less than P50,000 for the first violation. (PIA9)

Scale insect infestation poses threat to the coco industry in ZamPen

By Alma L. Tingcang

PAGADIAN CITY -  Aspidiotus destructor, more commonly known as the coconut scale insect is attacking coconut plants in Batangas. It is less than 5mm long which secretes a waxy coating for defense that resembles fish scales. Scale insects multiply faster in hot and dry weather. Thus, the long dry spell in 2010-2011 that hit Southern Luzon, particularly Batangas, allowed the scale insects to reproduce faster more quickly.

The outbreak of the coconut scale insect in Batangas in October 2012 was attributed to bad agricultural practices such as overuse or misuse of pesticides on vegetables and fruit trees planted under coconuts. Pesticides also kill natural enemies and without the natural enemies, insect pests are free to multiply without control. A single female scale insect can produce as much as 200-250 offspring, with a life cycle of 30 days.

Coconut is the preferred host of Aspidiotus destructor, although it is also known to attack many species of fruit trees such as avocado, mango, mangosteen, guava and papaya.

Its damage to coconut palms result in yellowing of the leaves progressing to drying and wilting in young and old palms. Later, premature nutfall occurs resulting to yield reduction. The scale insect also colonizes the leaves, young and old fruits and petioles.

And the scale insect is now affecting 15 barangays in Basilan making our area susceptible to infestation.

The Philippine Coconut Authority-IX has  devised ways to combat the onset of the attack through leaf pruning since it reduces the reproduction of scale insects and prevent its spread to other areas.

Washing coconut fruits with soap and water-infested fruits intended for marketing such as buko or mature nuts is advised to remove the insects and prevent its spread from farm to farm.

Spraying of insecticides and horticultural oils and local quarantine regulations  like avoiding  the transport of infested plant parts, coco planting materials and others that could result in the spread of the pest to non-outbreak areas would be a wise move.       

Another method  is fertilizer application that allows the palm to compensate for the loss in photosynthesis caused by insect feeding and leaf pruning.      

Scale insects having a soft body are susceptible to oil sprays. Instead of using pesticides, oil sprays can be used but this is applicable only for seedlings and young palms.

To better combat this infestation, biological control is the long term solution. There are many known predators such as coccinellid beetles, most common are chilocorus, pseudoscymnus, scymnus and telsimia, lacewings and parasitic wasps.

PCA-9 Regional Manager Ralph S. Hamoy said these predators are reared in a laboratory for eventual release in outbreak areas to augment the present low levels of natural enemies.

PCA further advises that palms will need to recover from the coconut scale insect infestation and regain their former lever of productivity. Intercropping with cash crops and other perennial crops including livestock integration under coconut is recommended to sustain farm income and provide alternative livelihood sources while awaiting recovery in coconut farms. (PIA9)

City gov’t capacity beefed up vs disaster

By Gideon C. Corgue  

PAGADIAN CITY – The establishment of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRMMC) and the existence of Barangay Response Emergency Team (BERT) is a great help in responding to natural and man-made calamities.

Thus declared Mayor Romeo Pulmones during the city government’s commemorative program marking the 37^th anniversary of earthquake and tsunami which wrecked havoc in this city in August 1976.

The commemorative program was held last Aug. 16, at F.S. Pajares Avenue corner Warlito Pulmones Street, Santiago District here.

Pulmones recalled that on August 17, 1976 at 12:11a.m., where he was then a 10-year old boy, a violent earthquake which had spawned tsunami occurred in the city leaving thousands dead and massive damage to properties along coastal barangays.

Pulmones said his administration would give priority in the implementation of the provisions of Republic Act 10121 otherwise known as “An act strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction Management System” by establishing CDRRMO and providing personnel therefor.

Pulmones said the city government is now strengthening its capacity to mitigate, prepare, respond and recover from the impact of disasters saying “that disasters are real and could happen anytime and anywhere.”

CDRRMO action officer Haron Damada said the chief executive established the CDRRMO on May 24, 2013, and subsequently assigned 20 personnel to man the office.

Pulmones thanked Governor Antonio Cerilles for supporting the CDRMMC by conducting extensive training on BERT members providing with the knowledge and skills for effective disaster management.

“I thanked Governor Cerilles for actively supporting the CDRMMC by training BERT members at the provincial government center in barangay Dao,” Pulmones said adding that “they are the first responders during disasters.”  

Damada said the city has a total of 1,669 trained BERT members following the establishment of the CDRRMC. (PIA9)

Zambo chamber prexy calls for PDAF abolition

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Zamboanga City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZCCI) President Pocholo Soliven is calling for the abolition of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) after a massive corruption on the use of the said fund was discovered.

“The findings in the COA report for 2007 and 2009 reinforce our suspicions that these funds have been used as a milking cow for personal political gains to institutionalize patronage politics in aid of perpetuating themselves  in power with a few exceptions,” Soliven stressed in a press release.

Soliven said the COA findings showed that there is an admission of the flawed system in the procurement, fiscal management as well as audit procedures.

Soliven also supports all calls for the abolition of PDAF, specifically, the “One Million March” held yesterday.

“It is a personal stand for the present and future generation that they will inherit a better political system. It’s also a protest not directed to any personality, but to the entire rotten system,” he continued.

As president of the biggest business group in the city, Soliven is also calling on the entire business sector to make a stand and be heard on the issue.

The business sector has supported the One Million March as a show of their disgust over the massive corruption of the public funds that could have been used to fund the deteriorating status of education, health and other basic services in the country.

Soliven also hopes that President Aquino will be very serious in his quest for the “Matuwid na Daan.”

“We want the guilty to be prosecuted and convicted with the full force of the law,” Soliven said in his press statement. (PIA9)

First Cavalry Squadron marks 37th founding anniversary

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – The First Cavalry (Eagle Eye) Squadron, Mechanized Division, Philippine Army (PA) commemorated its 37^th founding anniversary last Aug. 16 at its headquarters, Camp Col. Jacobo E. Zobel, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.

Anchored on the theme, “37^th year of gallant service, wisdom gained and experiences learned… continuously enhancing capability to respond significantly on present challenges,” the event was capped by a sports fest among its units, tree planting activities where 1,000 seedlings of mahogany trees were planted at Barangay Navalan and a bloodletting among its troopers.

The bloodletting activity, which was performed by the medical team of the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) headed by Dr. Delia Pastoriza, was able to collect 11,250 cc of different types of blood.

In his message, squadron’s commanding officer Lt. Col. Antonio John Divinagracia said, “as we close the chapter of the 37^th years of committed gallantry in every campaign our unit had participated in, we have set our right war fighting capability to another dimension to overcome the changing challenges of the succeeding years to come.”

He said this year’s theme must serve as an inspiration that we must prepare for the future “as we achieve the valuable accomplishments last year.”

On the other hand, MGen Mayoralgo M. De la Cruz, Assistant Division Commander, Mechanized Division, PA, who served as the guest of honor and speaker, disclosed that as part of the AFP’s modernization program  of the Aquino Administration,  114 Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) from the United States of America are expected to be delivered by December this year. “And another 24 assorted vehicles coming from Israel will also be delivered early next year. These armored vehicles are equipped with the state of the art technology,” De la Cruz added.

Meanwhile, MGen. Nicanor Dolohan, Mechanized Division Commander also conveyed his message as read by BGen dela Cruz to all the officers, enlisted personnel, staff and their dependents  as they celebrated their 37^th founding anniversary of PA’s pioneering armor unit.

“Today, after 37 years the 1^st Cavalry Squadron formerly known as the 1^st Light Armor Battalion (1LAB) continuous to serve with increasing responsiveness and commitment to professionalism and service quality,” he said.

“We do recognize the compelling need to improve its facilities, acquire better technology and capabilities, obtain specialization and enhancing skills of its personnel toward better responsiveness in performing our duties and responsibilities,” Dolohan further said.

He also commended the unit for having remained steadfast in the fulfillment of its mission in the face of change. (PIA9)

Over 300 brgy folks served in outreach program

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Local and national government agencies recently converged for a common purpose - to serve the residents of Barangay San Roque  by providing them with free health services such as medical, dental and other social services.

Vic Larato, City Information Officer said an estimated crowd of more than 300 individuals from the area benefited from the said services held at the San Roque Barangay Hall.

Larato also disclosed that the Office of the City Civil Registrar had “also offered free birth registration.”

Other services rendered during the service caravan include anti-rabies vaccination by the City Veterinarian, agriculture and fishery services by the City Agriculturist Office, and hair cutting, pedicure and manicure training by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA ). (PIA9)

OWWA9 opens 101 slots for CMWSP scholarship

By Mary Jane R. Amarado

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Regional Welfare Office No. 9 has officially opened its application for the Congressional Migrant Workers Scholarship Program (CMWSP) for children of OFWs who wanted to pursue courses in the field of science and technology. 

OWWA-9 Regional Director Hassan Gabra Jumdain said that the CMWSP is another baccalaureate scholarship program of OWWA wherein a scholar is entitled to P60,000 worth of scholarship per school year.

For SY 2014-2015, a total of 101 scholarship slots will be awarded to applicants who will pass the qualifying examination to be conducted by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) on Sept. 22, 2013.

To qualify, an applicant should be a child of an OFW below 21 years of age, a Filipino Citizen, in good health and of good moral character; should not have earned units in any post-secondary/undergraduate course and should not be a recipient of any scholarship award.

The filing and submission of application is from August 15 to 30, 2013. Complete list of courses applicable for the said scholarship are available at the OWWA website, just log on to www.owwa.gov.ph.

Interested applicants may inquire at the OWWA RWO-9 located at the 3^rd floor, Goodwill Center, Mayor Jaldon St., Zamboanga City with telephone number (062) 991-2785. (FPG/MJRA/OWWA9/PIA9/alt)

Jayme appointed DILG-Zambo Sur’s new chief

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – After a thorough consultation with the men and women of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Zamboanga del Sur, Local Government Operations Officer (LGOO) VI Verner Virgilio C. Jayme has recently been designated as acting provincial director for the province vice the late provincial director Abcede Asjali.

Jayme, who used to head the Local Government Monitoring and Evaluation Division (LGMED) of DILG-9, received his designation by virtue of Department Order No. 2013-524 dated July 13, 2013 issued by DILG-Central Office.

DILG-9 Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil, who installed Jayme as acting provincial director for Zamboanga del Sur, disclosed that he also consulted Governor Antonio Cerilles as to Jayme’s designation. “We know that the only way to implement smoothly the department’s thrust is to elicit support from the local chief executives,” he stressed.

Abutazil also advised Jayme to carry out his tasks and responsibilities with utmost diligence and sincerity.

For his part, Jayme was grateful for the opportunity given him by the agency as he sought the guidance of the Almighty in pursuing the office’s mandate.

He recalled that he had practically served the entire Zamboanga Peninsula as he once served as city director of Zamboanga City and provincial director of Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga del Norte.

Jayme also appealed to all employees of DILG-Zamboanga del Sur for their sincere and honest-to-goodness cooperation.

“I believe that together we could do much. With your dedication to work and sense of responsibility, I am optimistic that working in unison we could spell the difference,” Jayme declared.

Replacing Jayme as LGMED chief was Local Government Capacity Development Division (LGCD) chief Gina Vaño Uy. (PIA9)

Angat Mindulani: preparing the next generation of Theater Artists in Mindanao

By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Rarely do we see young theater artists and directors gather to share each other’s experiences in doing their craft. What more is expected when young directors meet the veterans?

It is an explosion of ideas, concepts, processes, artistry, and aesthetics that filled in the vacuum between the veteran theater practitioners and the neophytes. A revelation coming from the heavens that touches the ground with complete humility, an exposition that unravels what is at the heart of the veteran theater practitioners.

Trade secrets are rarely exposed and shared. But at Angat Mindulani event, the unraveling was inspiring.

Who would not be inspired of Fr. Rudolf “Dong” M. Galenzoga’s love story with theater and the world, when at the time of Martial Law, used theater to spread love, peace and spirituality through his Maranatha play? Who would not be amazed at the philosophical view of Dr. Steven Patrick “Tibo” Fernandez of the Integrated Performing Arts Guild of the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) in Iligan City, who believes that there is order in chaos and that artists must continue to challenge the order of things in order for new knowledge to come in and a more meaningful and harmonious existence to thrive?

Who would not be in love with the works of Director Warlito Nestor Horfilla? His experiences with cultural minorities, their life and struggles generate knowledge for aesthetic expression. For him, the artist must consider the dynamics of the culture. He believes that theater generates knowledge; therefore, it must be greatly well managed and researched.

Who would not be overjoyed with the achievement of Mindanao State University (MSU)-Marawi’s Sining Kambayoka whose minimalist approached to storytelling that combines music, chants, and movements? Master Sunnie Noel led us to the world of Kambayoka artistic creation process through a workshop.

They are the icons of Mindanao theater that selected young directors all over Mindanao had the opportunity to a dialogue during a conference recently in General Santos City for the Mindanao Theater Conference dubbed as “Angat Mindulani: preparing the next generation.”

This encounter seldom happens, thanks to the MSU-General Santos City and the National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) for making the event possible.

The dialogue and artistic encounter of young and veteran directors brought a new spark among young theater practitioners as each takes turns asking questions and learning from the gurus. They came out alive, renewed, and full of aspirations as they create vision for the future engagements in Mindanao Theater.

This cultural event was conceptualized with the need to hand down to the next generation of Mindanao theater directors the school of thoughts espoused by several Mindanao icons who have been in the cultural field for a long time.

The dialogue between the icons and the second liners has established a cognitive and aesthetic bridge between the icons and the young directors in terms of concepts, principles, theories and world views. It has also probe deeper into the icon’s social psyche and make all these more accessible to the young directors.

“Mindulani” is a coined word from three Filipino words: Mindanao, dula (play/theater), and ani (fruits/yields), and “angat” means rise. Hence, Angat Mindulani literally means “raise the yields of Mindanao Theater.” Mindulani has also become an organization of theater practitioners and cultural workers in Mindanao and has been initiating training, seminars, and conferences in the past. During the dialogue, young directors have decided to continue with the engagement of Mindulani.

The bridge has been established as Mindanao icons mentor Mindanao’s future. The young directors have acquired the wisdom of the masters and it is up to them now how Mindanao Theater would thrive ahead. (PIA9)

Bringing out the best in PIA-9 team

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY - The Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 has recently conducted a five-day teambuilding activity in Manila with side trips to Tagaytay City, Talisay, Batangas, Calamba City and Los Baños in Laguna.

It was a cultural, athletic and wellness activity designed to promote camaraderie between and among PIA-9 employees.

At times, like anybody else, employees need to have a break from work in order to be more efficient, competent and productive - easing oneself from stress, tension and pressure.

Enjoyable learning

Team building is not just purely for fun but educational, too. PIA-9 personnel were given a chance to visit PIA-Central Office and its divisions; PIA’s sister agencies; namely, the People’s Television Network (PTV-4), the Philippine News Agency (PNA) and the Philippine Broadcasting Service (PBS); Malacañang Palace particularly the museum at Kalayaan Hall and the press briefing room at the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO).

The group was awestruck gazing at the great Malacañang architecture that could only be seen in books, magazines or on television with eyes wide open in enchantment.

Malacañang tour guide named Diane made the tour an overwhelming experience for the group adding hilarity to every educational insight and historical value of things seen inside Malacañang. She regaled everyone with historical facts and trivia relating to Malacañang and past Philippine Presidents.

“We have to say ‘Malacañang’ if we refer to the whole place or compound and ‘Malacañan’ if we are referring to the palace or the residence of the president,” she explained.

Tagaytay, Laguna escapade

In Tagaytay, the group went to the People’s Sky Park, Picnic Grove, Taal Lake View Deck and to the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP). They also went down to Talisay, Batangas to experience the close up view of the Taal volcano.

The following day the group travelled to Luisa Ridge Hot Spring Resort in Laguna with PIA Region 4A Director Norito Cabutaje and his wife hosting lunch.

They also dropped by Rizal’s Shrine in Calamba, Laguna and the tallest monument of Rizal in the world, a 22-foot bronze statute.

Back to Manila

Going back to Manila, PIA-9 personnel met with PCOO Sec. Sonny Coloma Jr. and PIA Director General Jose Mari Oquiñena.

Dir. Gen. Oquiñena treated us for sumptuous lunch with some of his staff and  DDG Boy Galvez.

At dinner, we were treated by PMD Staff Director Emelyn Libunao to an authentic Italian Pizza House in Quezon City.

The Trip

Taking a break from work takes some planning to realize a 5-day trip of re-charging each member of the team, without leaving a vacuum at work. It also requires some financial resolve to be able to visit Manila Ocean Park, Luneta Park and Divisoria to scout for pasalubong items.

Piso Fare Promo

As a team, getting to places is quite heavy on the pocket. Thanks to seat sale promo, especially the piso fare. It is affordable that each one volunteered to buy their personal round trip ticket. They also made use of the cultural and athletic fund.

Administrative support from Central Office for accommodation, mobility and some treats from the bosses; some staff directors and from PIA Calabarzon, mattered most to spell success to PIA’s team building activities outside its turf.

The whole trip was really exciting and fun-filled experience for the group. Teambuilding is really as important for it brings out the best in a team to ensure self-development, positive communication, leadership skills and the ability to work together as a team. (PIA9)

1st cavalry squadron soldiers donate blood to IPHO

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – “We donate blood to save lives of others.”

This was the statement of 1^st Cavalry (Eagle Eye) Squadron commander Lt. Col. Antonio John Divinagracia during bloodletting activity on Wednesday at Camp Colonel Jacobe Zobel, Upper Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.

A total of 11,250 cc of blood were collected by the medical staff of Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) from 25 officers and men of the battalion who rolled up their sleeves to donate blood as part of their commitment to saving lives.

Divinagracia underscored the importance of donating blood saying that it helps save lives of the others. “Blood donation is just like Jesus Christ saving us from our sins. We donate blood to save lives of others,” he explained.

The 1^st Cavalry Squadron chief encouraged his men to donate blood for they are also needing blood for their companions who are wounded in the battlefield.

“The blood that you donate can be used also by members of your family who are needing it,” Divinagracia said.

Divinagracia said the bloodletting activity is not only conducted during the battalion’s anniversary but it is also done every month of February.

IPHO chief Dr. Delia Pastoriza lauded the soldiers for donating their blood saying that the blood that they have donated truly is a “gift of life” to others in the community who are sick or injured.

Pastoriza said many people are now suffering from terminal illnesses especially renal failure which she considered as one of top 10 leading causes of death not only in the province but throughout the country. “Thus, blood is absolutely necessary.”

Blood donor, Captain Erickson Balanga said he is happy to donate blood to help people who need it.

“I am happy that for the second time, I was able to donate my blood. This is my own little way of helping people who are needing it specially the poor.”

Balanga said millions of people across the world are in need of blood transfusions because of surgeries, accidents, war and natural disasters, etc.

Some of the soldiers have long been donating blood, but a few were “first-time” donors. (PIA9)

Zambo City Ecozone and Freeport announces 14 job vacancies

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority (Zambo Ecozone and Freeport) recently announced the vacancy of 14 different positions to be filled up within the year.

In a notice of vacancies posted Aug. 16 on their official website, Zambo Ecozone enumerated the following positions: bookkeeper, records officer, stenographer, budget officer, draftsman, communications equipment operator, attorney, information officer, services officer, information systems analyst, planning officer, research analyst, cashier, and credit officer.

All applicants to said positions must have the required eligibilities (Civil Service 1^st or 2^nd level), or license to be eligible for screening.

The interested applicants must submit the following: four sets of application letters (indicating the position desired) with the following attachments – CSC eligibility, filled-up Personal Data Sheet (CSC Form 212), credentials and other pertinent documents to support education, training hours, years of experience as per the minimum qualifications set by the Civil Service Commission.

The application must be addressed to The Chairman, Personnel Selection Board, Zamboanga Free Port Authority, San Ramon, Zamboanga City through the PSB Secretariat, Human Resource Management Section, Administrative Division on or before Sept. 3, 2013.

For more information on the educational, training and other requirements of the positions to be applied for, interested parties may log on to www.zambofreeport.com.ph.

The Zambo Ecozone and Freeport was created through Republic Act 7903 authored by the late Congresswoman Ma. Clara Lobregat. It was enacted on February 23, 1995 and one year later, it was made operational with the appointment of a chairman and administrator and members of the board by former president Fidel Ramos. Zambo Ecozone is a means to attract investors, local and foreign, generate local employment opportunities and encourage the regional dispersal of industries. The law calls for Zambo Ecozone to be “developed into a decentralized, self-reliant and self-sustaining agro-industrial, commercial, financial, investment and tourism center and Freeport with suitable retirement and residential areas”. (PIA9)

Task Force Zambo chief urges civilians not to wear police, military uniforms

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - In the midst of the current peace, order and security situation that the city and neighboring provinces are facing, the public is reminded never to wear police or military uniforms, or camouflage fatigues and combat khakis in public.

Task Force Zamboanga (TFZ) Commander Col. Adrelino Colina, in last week’s radio interview emphasized that “it is against the law for any non-member of the armed forces or police to don these uniforms as they can cause confusion among the public.”

Col. Colina asserted that notorious elements with questionable intentions would wear such uniforms to pretend that they are members of the armed forces or police in carrying out their nefarious plans.

The task force commander instructed his personnel to immediately accost any person who is caught wearing the uniform.

The wearing of police and military uniform or insignia is a criminal offense punishable under Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, by “arresto mayor” carrying a penalty of one month and one day to six months detention.

In the past several weeks, Zamboanga residents have expressed anxiety over the peace and order problem here and in the neighboring provinces and cities. Explosions, abductions and shooting incidents have been occurring since last month.

Meanwhile, 20 improvised explosive devices were discovered in a house in Basilan last week, allegedly prepared by the Abu Sayyaf Group.

Amid these pressing concerns, Zamboanga City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar called on not only the police and military, but the residents as well to be very vigilant and extra cautious. She emphasized that everybody’s alertness in this issue, particularly in reporting suspicious persons and activities will save lives.

Col. Colina said that the TFZ already presented the city government a proposal to have civilian “force multipliers” to assist them in securing peace and order in the barangays since their numbers are very limited as against the vastness of the city. 

“We need inputs to fine tune the plans that we have already prepared. As always, we need communication, coordination and cooperation from the communities to efficiently and effectively keep Zamboanga safe and secured,” Col. Colina said. (PIA9)