Zambo rehab in full gear

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said the rehabilitation efforts in the city are now in full swing.

Speaking to the media, Mayor Climaco-Salazar announced, “The Z3R (Zamboanga City Roadmap to Recovery and Reconstruction) Plan is well on its way and that preparations for implementation are on full gear.”

Climaco-Salazar said the Z3R team met last February 9 with the National Inter-Agency Council with Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson and National Housing Authority General Manager Chito Cruz to expedite the rebuilding of infrastructure and shelters for the thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs)

“Sec. Singson has given the local government authority to enter into lease of property agreements to hasten the construction of temporary shelters or houses,” the lady chief executive said.

According to Climaco-Salazar, there are now 4 transitory sites for the evacuees, while another one is due for completion on March 8 that will house 90 families.

As for the budget for rehabilitation, Climaco-Salazar revealed that a total of P2.5-B was already downloaded to NHA for the shelter and infra projects.

“What is taking time is, the legal issues concerning the purchase of lots for temporary and permanent houses have to be resolved”, she said.

As for the budget allocated for the rehabilitation efforts, Engr. Al Indanan of NHA said “Of the P2.5-B, approximately P800 million is allotted to DPWH for infra and road rehabilitation purposes. NHA has also allocated P49.83 M for home material assistance to 1,661 families. We hope to deliver on or before end of March.”

NHA is also set to construct 1,157 two-story units and 1,189 duplex units worth P482.88 M, and 3,241 houses on stilt units worth P486.15 M.  

Indanan said the fund is already with NHA and that they will be submitting reports to the city government to make sure that they follow guidelines for securing proper permits and license necessary for the development of the housing and rehabilitation purposes.

Mayor Climaco-Salazar assured the public that all resources of the government are properly mobilized. 

Zambo is hotspot for birding, says int’l bird expert

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Birders, or bird-watchers from all over the world are interested to visit Zamboanga because of the presence of a great variety of species here, said an international birding expert during a bird-watching trip at the Zamboanga City State College of Marine Science and Technology (ZCSCMST) fishpond in Rio Hondo. 

Mark Wallbank, a birder from the United Kingdom said that there are approximately 185 different species that are either migrants or residents, and this is a good reason why many birders want to personally visit the area.

Wallbank is one of about a hundred local and international birders who are in the city from February 27 to March 1 for the 9th Philippine Bird Festival made possible by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Tourism (DOT). 

“One reason why the birds migrate here is because the environment is so wonderful,” explained Wallbank to high school students who participated in the bird-watching trip. 

“The birds like Zamboanga so much,” quipped Wallbank.

One specie known as the great and little egrets, which are considerably large white birds have nested in good numbers in the area.

“These birds are originally from China and have come here to mate, mainly because they like the weather and environment. The eggs will eventually hatch here,” Wallbank said. 

In one hour, the bird enthusiasts were delighted to spot and identify 20 different species.

The Philippines has about 670 different species of birds. Zamboanga’s species make up about 28% of the total.

Activities for the bird festival included a parade on February 27 leading to Paseo del Mar, and various bird-watching trips at the Intake Watershed, Bog Lake and Mount Baluno until March 1. 

DENR spearheads land title distribution

By Emmanuel D. Taghoy

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – As part of the 13th Araw ng Sibugay celebration, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) distributed some 727 land titles during the Handog Titulo Program conducted Tuesday at Provincial Capitol Center Podium this municipality.

Regional Executive Director Arleigh G. Adorable personally handed the land titles to recipient-municipalities, namely, Tungawan with 73 land titles, Titay -102, Ipil – 76, Naga – 25, Siay – 22, Kabasalan – 8, R.T Lim – 20, Alicia – 110, Buug – 105, Payao- 8, Imelda – 58, Talusan – 15,  Olutanga – 16, Mabuhay – 39, Malangas – 29 and Diplahan – 13. 

Moises Butic, regional technical director for lands and Provincial Director Dante Oporto of DENR-Sibugay were also present in the event. 

The ‘Handog Titulo’ was one of the highlights of the 13th commemoration of the creation of Zamboanga Sibugay province, which was created in 2001.

Zambo. Norte to purchase new heavy equipment

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY – The provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte will purchase 25 new heavy equipment to be used in the implementation and construction of infrastructure projects in the province. 

The provincial board has recently approved the allocation of P61,305,000 from the P91,305,000 appropriation under the 2014 GeneraL Supplemental Budget No. 1 for the acquisition of said the heavy equipment consisting of 3 bulldozers, 5 six-wheeler dump trucks, 3 back hoes, 1 telescopic crane, 4 road rollers, 1 loader truck, 1 tanker, 4 graders and 3 payloaders.

These will be distributed to the province’s three districts for speedy implementation and completion of all infrastructure projects lined up by the provincial government.  

Vice Governor Senen O. Angeles also vouched for the need to procure brand new and high-quality equipment saying, “our existing equipment are old and some are dilapidated and worn-out.”

“The existing heavy equipment are not sufficient since some of these are undergoing repair while the new equipment purchased by the past administration are not serviceable. So, we need additional fleet for each district,” he added.

In a related development, the provincial government is set to give Dipolog City P30-million as financial assistance out of the supplemental budget which comes from the 2013 un-appropriated balance. This will be used in the implementation of the city’s infrastructure projects. 

“For ten years, the city has not received anything from the provincial government. Hence, it is high time for the city to receive such an assistance from the provincial government,” Board Member Romulo Soliva said. 

Spain pledges more projects for Zambo’s dev’t

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Kingdom of Spain has assured the residents of Zamboanga that it will be implementing projects in the city for its development during the commemorative program for the Dia de Zamboanga held yesterday, Feb. 26, at the Paseo del Mar here.

Señor Ignacio Perez-Cambra, representative of Spain’s Ambassador to the Philippines Señor Jorge Domecq declared that “Zamboanga will always have a partner with us” in terms of developing the city further while preserving the city’s rich cultural heritage.

“We aim to be partners in bringing about development to the city, and we have high hopes of implementing new projects here,” he added. Although Señor Cambra was not specific on which projects the Spanish government would be implementing in the city, he emphasized that they will be “developmental”.

Señor Cambra emphasized that Zamboanga has always been a “beacon”, stirring fascination from the Spanish because of its rich culture and Chabacano language. He praised the Zamboangueños for their strong belief and determination, especially after being beset with the September tragedy.

“We are inspired by the strong will of the Zamboangueños for rising back to their feet in spite of the tragedy,” said Señor Cambra in his native Spanish.

Meanwhile, during the commemorative program which followed a civic-military parade in the city thoroughfares, various organizations, government agencies and other stakeholders were recognized by the local government and presented a plaque of appreciation for their contributions during and after the crisis.

Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar once again expressed her gratitude for the contributions of the different groups. “Let us continue to build back better Zamboanga,” she said.

Congressman Celso Lobregat shared his hopes that, in spite of being affected by tragedies and crisis, the people of Zamboanga will continue to celebrate the Dia for centuries to come.

Yesterday was the 77th anniversary of Zamboanga City’s charter day. 

2014 ZPRAA Meet reels off in Dipolog

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY – The 2014 Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) Meet officially started here on Sunday with a grand parade along the city’s major thoroughfares and an opening program at the Zamboanga del Norte Sports Complex. 

The said activity, which will end on Feb, 28, has been participated in by the eight delegations from the divisions of Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Norte, Pagadian City, Zamboanga City, Isabela City, Dipolog City and Dapitan City.

Spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd), this annual sports and athletic tournament is designed to promote sportsmanship and camaraderie among athletes and players.

Athletes from both elementary and secondary schools in the region are vying for various sports and athletic events such as arnis, archery, basketball, baseball, volleyball, football, softball, gymnastics, wushu, taekwondo, lawn tennis, table tennis, billiards, sepak takraw, swimming, badminton and chess.

Mr. Ronillo Yarag, sports coordinator of DepEd-Dipolog City division said that this year’s ZPRAA meet is hosted by the city government of Dipolog. 

“As of now, Dipolog has been proclaimed as champion of sepak takraw. We won this title for three consecutive years since 2012. We will be representing region 9 for the 2014 Palarong Pambansa to be held in Laguna,” Yarag disclosed.

It was also learned that Dipolog has tapped the expertise of seven trainers for its athletes aside from the teacher-coaches. 

The provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte is said to have also provided logistical support for the success of the event. 

DTI-Zambo. Sur to turn-over SSF projects

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will be hold a launching, turn-over and blessing ceremony  of the two shared services facilities (SSF) on Monday, March 3.

Provincial Director Ma. Socorro Malate-Atay said the two SSF, namely, the organic fertilizer processing machineries and equipment for Danlugan Farmer’s Multi-Purpose Cooperative (DFMPC) and the handicraft sewing machines for Pagadian City NFE beneficiaries multi-purpose cooperative (HSMPCNFEMPC) will be held at the DFMPC demo farm in Danlugan and at HSMPCNFEMPC office in San Pedro, respectively.
Atay said the SSF is a priority project of the agency under the BIG PUSH for SME Development Program.  

“It aims to address the gaps in the supply chain of an indentified project by providing processing or manufacturing tools, equipment and machines for the common use of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises,” Atay explained.

The director said the SSF project seeks to enhance the competitiveness of the priority industry clusters through the use of quality and productivity enhancing machinery and equipment.

“It also hopes to develop priority and market-driven industries in support of the National Industry Capacity Enhancement Program,” Atay concluded. 

WMSU Hawks bags Zambo City cheerdance tilt

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Hawks pep squad of the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) once again bested other colleges as it emerged as this year’s champion of the Dia De Zamboanga Inter-School Cheerdance Competition held here yesterday at the Zamboanga City Coliseum in barangay Tetuan.

Universidad de Zamboanga’s Roaring Wildcats came in second, while Southern City Colleges’ Bulldogs came in third.

For the high school category, Zamboanga City High School Main’s Phoenix emerged as champion. Talon-Talon National High School’s Jaguars and Culianan National High School’s Green Warriors came in second and third, respectively.

This year, intense aerial stunts were not allowed as before to avert serious injuries among the competing students. The theme for the contestants’ performances is “Build Back Better Zamboanga”, illustrating this through artistic gymnastic dance interpretation.

The Hawks consistently won the said competition since 2012. The group has also been recognized for their performance in other competitions.

Zamboanga Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar congratulated the winners and the participants to the competition. She distributed cash and consolation prizes to both the winners and non-winners. Afterwards, the mayor joined in a fast-paced Zumba workout held at the venue.

The cheerdance competition is one of the activities held in commemoration of the 77th anniversary of the city’s charter day on Feb. 26. 

Zambo City to host 9th Philippine Bird Fest

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Close to a hundred participants coming from the different regions of the country and other countries are starting to arrive in the city today to attend the 9th Philippine Bird Festival, an annual undertaking and the country’s largest celebration of avifaunal diversity and ecotourism promotion.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Chief Information Officer Roservirico Tan said “birders, bird watchers, conservationists and tourism promoters from all over the country and abroad are expected to flock to the Paseo del Mar to attend the event,” which will run from Feb. 28 to March 1.

Tan disclosed that international organizations such as the Malaysian Nature Society, Bird Conservation Society of Thailand, Asian Raptor Research and Conservation Network, Wild Bird Society of Taipei,  Tourism Malaysia and Swarovski Optik will be participating in the festival, alongside local organizations and institutions including the Katala Foundation (Palawan), Birdwatch Palawan, Penagmannaki (Negros Oriental), Haribon Foundation, Earth Island Institute, the Philippine Native Plant Society Conservation Society and Save Freedom Island Movement

Tan said tons of activities are lined up during the said bird fest. He encouraged the public  to come and view the bird fest which will be held at the Paseo Del Mar.  “It is open to the public, free of charge.  It will feature bird watching trips, an exhibit on the natural history and bird photos by the city’s leading and amateur nature photographers, films and lectures, and fora on eco-tourism and birdlife management.”

“An activity center featuring bird-themed folklore, crafts and games will be on top for the young and the young at heart, “ Tan added

This year’s bird fest activity is anchored on the theme Pajaros: Bula sin Miedo, sin Lingasa”— Zamboanga’s Spanish-based Chavacano for “Birds: Fly without Fear, without Worries.” 

The activity aims to promote the bird watching hobby as a nature tourism activity and drum up support for conservation and restoration of coastal wetlands and the Pasonanca Natural Park, right in the heart of Zamboanga City.

The bird festival is also part of this year’s Feb. 26 Dia de Zamboanga celebration, jointly-hosted by the City of Zamboanga, the Department of Tourism IX and the DENR IX.

Labason town employees undergo SPMS seminar

By Alfonso T. Ruda

Labason, Zamboanga del Norte – In compliance with the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Resolution No. 1200481 dated March 16, 2012, the municipal employees here have undergone a training on Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS) held last Feb. 18-19 at the New Legislative Building in this municipality.

Regular, coterminous and casual employees attended the seminar with Atty. Jerry N. Mayormita, provincial director, CSC-Zamboanga del Norte Field Office as resource speaker.

Mr. Cipriano Andalop, acting municipal human resource management officer, said the seminar sought to equip the participants with appropriate knowledge on SPMS especially in identifying the Major Final Outputs (MFO), Support to Operation (STO) and the General Administration and Support (GAS) in each office/department of the local government unit (LGU).

The CSC employs the SPMS as a performance measurement system to continually foster improvement of individual employee’s efficiency and organizational effectiveness in support of Executive Order No. 80 which directs the adoption of a performance-based incentives system for government employees.

It was also learned that CSC Resolution No. 1200481 has required all government agencies including the LGUs to have a CSC-approved SPMS by Jan. 2015. 

With this, all performance-based human resource movements and/or developments and interventions such as promotion, scholarship, training, and all salary increment shall be based on a CSC-approved SPMS. The absence of an agency SPMS will be a ground for the forfeiture of incentives and similar grants. 

“Adoption of SPMS by LGUs is necessary so as not to hamper the granting of the employees’ benefits and incentives,” Mayormita pointed out. (with report from Abundio D. Puro)

WMSU Hawks bags Zambo City cheerdance tilt

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Hawks pep squad of the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) once again bested other colleges as it emerged as this year’s champion of the Dia De Zamboanga Inter-School Cheerdance Competition held here yesterday at the Zamboanga City Coliseum in barangay Tetuan.

Universidad de Zamboanga’s Roaring Wildcats came in second, while Southern City Colleges’ Bulldogs came in third.

For the high school category, Zamboanga City High School Main’s Phoenix emerged as champion. Talon-Talon National High School’s Jaguars and Culianan National High School’s Green Warriors came in second and third, respectively.

This year, intense aerial stunts were not allowed as before to avert serious injuries among the competing students. The theme for the contestants’ performances is “Build Back Better Zamboanga”, illustrating this through artistic gymnastic dance interpretation.

The Hawks consistently won the said competition since 2012. The group has also been recognized for their performance in other competitions.

Zamboanga Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar congratulated the winners and the participants to the competition. She distributed cash and consolation prizes to both the winners and non-winners. Afterwards, the mayor joined in a fast-paced Zumba workout held at the venue.

The cheerdance competition is one of the activities held in commemoration of the 77th anniversary of the city’s charter day on Feb. 26.

DepED-9 holds 3rd IPEd stakeholders’ forum in Pagadian City

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – To achieve effective and meaningful education for indigenous peoples (IPs) in the region, tribal leaders, national government agencies (NGAs), non-government organizations (NGOs), education officials and other stakeholders have for the third time converged here to synchronize and coordinate programs and services in support of IP education in the area.

Points of collaboration between and among stakeholders in promoting IP education were identified in a series of workshops during the two-day IPEd forum held on Feb. 20-21 at the Bay Plaza Hotel here.

Dr. Eugene Penales, elementary education chief of the Department of Education (DepED)-9, emphasized that IPEd subscribes to the rights-based approach which is anchored on these three principles: participation, inclusion and empowerment. 

Doctor Penales also urged the different NGAs to always include the indigenous cultural communities (ICCs) in the implementation of their respective programs and projects. 

Representatives from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have presented that their offices have projects and services that cater to IPs. 

Dr. Reynaldo Ortiz of the Rotary Club of Pagadian also assured the DepED of the club’s commitment to IPEd saying that supporting education is one of the major programs pursued by the group.

The other five programs of the Rotary Club are promoting peace, fighting diseases, providing clean water, saving mother and child and improving local economy. 

It can be recalled that the DepED had issued Department Order No. 62 s. 2011 aimed at recognizing, protecting and promoting the rights and welfare of ICCs and IPs. 

Binibining Sibugay 2014 highlights 13th “Araw ng Sibugay” festivities

By Alma L. Tingcang

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – A beautiful lass from the municipality of Alicia bagged the coveted Binibining Sibugay 2014 title during the coronation night held on Sunday, Feb. 23 at, the Governor’s Pad, Provincial Capitol this municipality.

Marissa Jade Koh of Alicia town bested 12 other candidates and also received the Darling of the Press award. Fharen Khaze Cole from the municipality of Mabuhay was 1st Runner-up while Shekah Evedientes of Payao town won 2nd Runner-up.

Minor awards such as Best in Production number was bagged by Hana Mei Hasan, Miss Malangas; Best in Swimwear - Kimberly Garcia, Miss Naga; Best in Evening Long Gown/Best in Casual Wear and Miss Photogenic - Sheka Evedientes, Miss Payao; Best in Festival Attire - Charlen Tingson, Miss Diplahan; Miss Witty - Karen Ellorino, Miss Siay; and Miss Congeniality - Ma. Loraine Grengia, Miss Talusan.

Karlwinn Paitan of Diplahan town also received the Best Designer award during the pageant night.
Governor Wilter Y. Palma said various activities such as medical outreach, jobs fair, sports activities and other events mark the meaningful celebration. Moreover, Gov. Palma announced the distribution of land titles will be held today, Feb. 25, in cooperation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). 

Zamboanga Sibugay was carved out from Zamboanga del Sur in 2001, thus creating a new province with two districts and 16 municipalities.

Rubber farmers, growers urged to produce quality rubber products

By Emmanuel D. Taghoy

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – Rubber farmers and growers have been urged to produce clean rubber lumps to raise the quality of rubber products of the province.

This was contained in a resolution addressed to the Zamboanga Sibugay Rubber Industry Development Council (ZSRIDC) by the rubber farmers and growers attending the first rubber summit last Feb. 21-22 at the Provincial Capitol this municipality.

The said resolution is also requesting the provincial legislators to pass an ordinance that will prohibit buyers of rubber products from buying dirty rubber lumps.

Rubber lumps are often stuffed with materials inside or drenched in mud or used with battery solution to make it heavier, thus making it poor in quality and reduces its price value.

The rubber farmers and growers also requested the assignation of a rubber specialist, creation of price management committee, bagsakan with fair weighing scale and the availability and sustainability of formic acid in the market to prevent the use of battery solution.

Government officials attending the said summit were Undersecretary Jerry Pacturan of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Regional Director Lorenzo G. Macapili of TESDA-9, Regional Director Sisinio B. Cano of DOLE-9, Regional Director Constancio G. Alama of DA-9, Regional Director Sitti Amina Jain of DTI-9, Ms. Andrea Inocencio of DA-Bureau of Plant Industry as well as provincial directors and heads of offices.

The rubber summit was a collaborative effort of national government agencies (NGAs) like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Agriculture – Zamboanga Peninsula Integrated Agricultural Research Center (DA-ZAMPIARC), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Office of the Provincial Agriculturist and others.

RCWC to strengthen promotion, protection of children’s rights in Zambo peninsula

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Regional Council for the Welfare of Children (RCWC) composed of different government and non-government agencies has completed the drafting of their work and financial plans covering a period of three years starting 2014-2016 in a strategic planning workshop held  on Feb. 18-20 in a local hotel here.

CWC consultant Maria Virginia Liquigan emphasized that “there are still several areas where the local council needs to improve on.”

“We have identified four areas that we need to strengthen,” Ms. Liquigan said, referring to 1) advocacy on policies and programs for children to LGUs, partners, media and stakeholders, 2) planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of policies and programs, 3) provision of technical assistance, and 4) reporting.

The RCWC member-agencies were divided into four such groups according to their agency function to come up with a detailed plan to enhance and improve on the current mechanisms. In general, the plan seeks to have a public well informed on the rights of the children, as well as on the programs and services for them.
Ms. Liquigan pointed out that there has been no conduct of a “State of the Children Report” by LGUs in the region, which is preferable to be said every year by the local chief executive. She recommended the RCWC to market this idea to the LGUs, since this is seen to rouse more local accountability towards children’s programs.

In addition, the lack of a databank on children is seen as a major gap in the RCWC. Although various data are generated from the LGUs such as the number of children having access to basic facilities, education, health, and others, there is no general repository of these data, which, as Ms. Liquigan emphasized, “can be very useful for the CWC to come up with more effective programs, projects and activities”.

Moreover, there are still cases of child abuse and child labor in the region. The plans are seen to enable the LGUs to become more responsive pro-actively to address such issues in their localities.

Several municipalities and cities in the region have already been classified as Child-Friendly like Dipolog City. But, as noted in the discussions, several LGUs have still yet to receive the Presidential Award, and to strengthen the functionality of their Local Councils for the Protection of Children (LCPCs). Many have very modest budget for the implementation of local children’s programs. Ms. Liquigan stressed the principle that “provision of funds for children’s programs should not be seen as charity by the LGUs; it is a right due to the children.”

After the three-day planning sessions that were seen to address the aforementioned gaps, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Assistant Regional Director Consejo H. Usman, as secretariat to the RCWC, still committed the agency’s support to the plans. 

“We will be supporting, both technically and financially the plans that the RCWC had drafted to ensure their successful implementation for the next three years,” said Director Usman. Like the DSWD, the member-agencies will be contributing their own technical and financial resources.

RCWC member-agencies that attended the planning workshop include the DSWD, the National Youth Commission (NYC), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Justice (DOJ), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Commission on Human Rights (CHR), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), National Nutrition Council (NNC), Philippine Statistical Authority (PSA), and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). Non-government organizations include the Child Abuse Prevention and Intervention Network (CAPIN) and Human Development and Empowerment Services (HDES). Representatives from the local governments of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga City were also present.

The CWC was created by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 603, or the Child and Youth Welfare Code. 

Search is on for Equator Prize 2014

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY - The Equator Initiative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) announces the call for nominees for the Equator Prize 2014.

The global search aims to recognize local sustainable development solutions for people, nature and resilient communities. The search covers 145 countries around the world receiving support from UNDP.

The theme of the Equator Prize 2014 is local climate change action. Thus, the search is looking for leading examples of communities that are managing biodiversity and ecosystems in a way that is reducing vulnerability, creating sustainable livelihoods, and advancing natural solutions to address the climate crisis.

In line with this, Regional Development Council (RDC) IX enjoins the Private Sector Institutions, Regional Line Agencies and the Local Government Units (LGUs) to nominate eligible local initiatives or projects that embodies the development and conservation goals of the Equator Initiative.

Nominees must have been in operation for at least three years. Must be a community-based or local group operating in a rural area and must be located within a country receiving support from UNDP. Countries with high level of development are excluded from this contest.

Winners of this search will each receive US$5,000 and an additional US$15,000 for special recognition.
Awarding of winners will be held during the UN Secretary-General’s Climate Summit and the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples in New York in September 2014.

The call for nomination is open until March 22, 2014. Online nomination are strongly encouraged and can be completed at the website. Nominations may also be submitted by email to www.equatorinitiative@undp.org, by fax to +1 212 906-5657 of by post to Equator Initiative, 304 East 45th Street, FF-614 New York, NY 10017 USA.

For more detailed information log on at www.equatorinitiative.org.

Nominate now! This is our chance to be recognized, the efforts of our local and indigenous groups that demonstrate and exemplify sustainable development at the international scene. 

DAR chief leads groundbreaking of P58-M irrigation project

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY – Secretary Virgilio R. De Los Reyes of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) arrived here last week for the groundbreaking of the P58-million irrigation project of the Dipolog City Communal Irrigation System (CIS).

The said project, which is part of DAR’s Agrarian Reform Communities Project (ARCP) II, is expected to be completed on Aug. 23, 2014, benefiting the rice farmers of barangays Bandera, Poblacion South and Anastacio of Polanco town and barangays Gulayon, Turno, Sta. Filomena, Galas, Olingan, Punta and Sinaman in Dipolog City with a total irrigable area of 750 hectares.

Secretary de los Reyes disclosed that ARCP II projects were augmented by the savings realignment from the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) of the Office of the President.

DPIA President Gomercindo T. Dimasuhid said that the project would help improve the farmers’ produce and income.

In her message, Mayor Evelyn Uy said “all these projects will not be meaningful without the presence of Secretary de los Reyes. I hope DAR will continue giving us projects.”

Aside from Governor Roberto Y. Uy and Mayor Evelyn T. Uy, the municipal mayors of Sindangan, Polanco, Labason, Baliguian and Manukan also attended the said activity. 

464 CLOAs distributed in Zambo. Norte

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - Agrarian Reform Secretary Virgilio de los Reyes has distributed a total of 464 Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) to the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in Zamboanga del Norte during his recent visit here, covering 756.7044 hectares of land with 394 beneficiaries.

In a ceremonial turnover ceremony held at Top Plaza Hotel here, Secretary de los Reyes personally handed the CLOAs to the ARB representatives from Godod, Sirawai, Siayan, Sindangan and Dapitan City.

Two hundred ninety seven CLOAs were received by Felix Ligutom for Godod, 34 CLOAs by Majid Baid for Sirawai, 81 CLOAs by Eufrocina Quitong for Siayan and Sindangan, and 52 CLOAs by Abraham Bayron for Dapitan City.

De los Reyes also distributed 225 CLOAs for Zamboanga del Sur, 144 of which were received by Expedito Padigos Sr. for Dumingag town and 81 by Flordeliz Dagooc for V. Sagun municipality. 

In the same occasion, the secretary also turned-over to the Zamboanga del Norte provincial government 20 multi-million ARCP2 projects with Labason town receiving 8; Sindangan, 3; Leon Postigo, 4; and Baliguian,5.

The event was also witnessed by Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn T. Uy, DAR-9 Regional Director Julita Ragandang, municipal mayors, farmers, and the other stakeholders. 

De los Reyes came here to grace the groundbreaking of the P58-million rehabilitation project of Dipolog Communal Irrigation System at sitio Banicapt in barangay Galas this city.

The project is funded under ARCP-2 with 50 percent counterpart from the city government. 

It will be implemented by Vicente Lao Construction and is expected to be completed in 210 days. Once completed, the project is expected to benefit not only the 486 ARBs in the area but also the residents of nearby barangays.

“The completion of the project is expected to increase the cropping intensity of the farmers in the area and improve their living condition through increased crop production,” the secretary said. 

The project traverses barangays Gulayon, Sta. Felomina, Galas, Olingan, Punta and Sinaman. 

DAR turns-over ARCP-2 projects in Zambo. Norte

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY – Aside from the P58 million set aside by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) under the Agrarian Reform Community Projects (ARCP)-2 for the rehabilitation of the Dipolog Communal Irrigation System in this city, Secretary Virigilio de los Reyes has recently turned-over various ARCP-2 projects to the local government units (LGUs) in Zamboanga del Norte.

In his recent visit here, Secretary de los Reyes turned-over 20 various ARCP-2 projects being implemented in the different parts of the province.

These projects include solar dryers in Motibot, Nipaan and Sto. Rosario all in Sindangan town with appropriations of P464,776.23, P479,158.57 and P486,191.890, respectively.

Other projects implemented in the different barangays in the province were Potable Water System-Level II  worth P665,884.53 in Upper Gabu; Day Care Centers in Balas -P1,091,331.77, Sitio Jaiy - P1,093,311.72, and Sitio Sibulan - P1,088,896.81; Balas Health Center - P1,185,910.72; Sitio Sibulan Health Center -P1,185,910.72; Lawigan Health Center - P1,181,779.86) and Lawigan Day Care Center - P1,091,110.31, all of Labason town.

Construction of elementary school buildings in Delusom - P1,947,471.00, Palandok -1,947,796.15, Mangop -P1,957,259.49, and Bogabongan - P1,945,123.22 all in Leon Postigo municipality.

Construction of elementary school building in Nonoyan - P1,908,596.01 and Mamad - P1,925,371.64, solar dryer in Lumay P482,162.25, Multi-Purpose Center in Poblacion  -P1,174,984.56 and Kauswagan - P1,168,022.58 all in Baliguian.

These projects were implemented in agrarian reform communities with counterpart funding from the local government units. 

Basilan remembers countless victims of violence at memorial for peace

By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Basilan Bishop Martin Jumoad led the memorial ceremony for the victims of violence in the province at the Memorial for Peace shrine at the Querexeta Formation Center here last Feb. 14.

At least thirty workers and guests gathered at a liturgical ceremony to commemorate the countless victims of violence in Basilan, remembering mostly Catholic Christians who fall victims to atrocities especially at the height of the dreaded Abu Sayyafs.

On Feb. 14, 1999, Abu Sayyaf opened fire on a jeep full of Christian catechists from Tumahubong, Basilan who were on their way to an Alay Kapwa seminar in Isabela town. Some of the victims were hacked with bolos. Six were killed in the ambush.

Bishop Jumoad reminded the faithful “not to allow darkness to conquer Basilan” and that through peoples’ good acts, they become the witness of the Catholic faith in Basilan.

“The beautiful liturgy today reminds us that we are called to be witnesses of our faith. Be the light of the world. Be the light of Basilan. And never allow darkness to conquer you,” the Bishop said.

Recognizing that Basilan has been through a lot of pain and that many, both Muslims and Christians, have already sacrificed so much. The Bishop said that violence persists because many have refused also to do one’s share to stop the violence and killings.

“I think this is really the time to come out and do something in order that Basilan will really be a beautiful place, a paradise, and that peace will truly reign here in Basilan,” the Bishop said as he lamented that fear continue to hinder many witnesses of crimes to come out.

At the ceremony, the faithful lighted candles and offered flowers to the shrine where the vehicle used by the catechists ambushed and murdered by lawless elements was enshrined in the memorial for peace as a reminder of the darkest days of the people in Basilan.

At around 5:45 a.m. of Feb. 14, 1999, the vehicle of San Vicente Ferrer, Tumajubong Parish was ambushed at Sitio Guiong, a few kilometers from Tumajubong proper. On board were six parish workers (including the driver) who were on their way to the capital town of Isabela to attend the Alay Kapwa Recollection Seminar. Five were killed, namely, Emiliano Eugenio, Abundio Salburo, Teodoro Escabarte, Alma Rabaca, and Forunata Abasto. Only one had survived.

The bishop has encouraged the people to continue reflecting on what each one has done for Basilan. He told the faithful that 2014 was declared by the Church as the year of the laity, a reminder that the laity must be at the forefront in order that the church may become active and alive always.

He recalled the commitment of the lay leaders who died on that fateful morning in 1999 who never thought that that they would die that day, and that in spite of the volatile peace and order situation then, the laity braved the road in the service of the Church.

“All of us must have a sense of sacrifice and a sense of offering if we truly remember and believe the meaning of Alay Kapwa—it is offering, making sacrifice and doing something for the Church,” he said.

In prayer, the Bishop hopes that the Christian Catholics in Basilan today may have the same commitment as have shown by the laity who died some 14 years ago.

SEAFDEC provides technical assistance to seaweed farmers in Zambo. Sur

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – Researchers from Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) in Iloilo City recently visited the coastal municipalities of Zamboanga del Sur’s first district to conduct a study on seaweed farming industry in the area.

Maria Ravilla T. Luhan and Evelyn Grace Ayson SEAFDEC’s Seaweed Ecology and Breeding and Seed Production of Marine Fish visited the municipalities of Labangan and Tukuran as well as this city upon the invitation of first district representative Victor Yu to conduct a two-day consultative meeting with the seaweed farmers at the Dynasty Beach Resort, Lower Bayao, Tukuran to draw up measures to help out the marginal seaweed farmers. 

Yu said seaweed farmers in the first district have been producing less due to climate change and the “ice-ice” or whitening disease that hits several seaweed farms.

It can be recalled that seaweed farming provides a source of livelihood to thousands of families living in the coastal areas who are directly involved in the production, trading and exporting said product in Mindanao.

Yu said the government is coming up with certain solutions to address the concerns of the seaweed sector.    
“With the technical assistance of SEAFDEC, we are coming up with productivity enhancement techniques through the adoption of seaweed tissue culture technology, etc,” he added. 

Yu said he wanted to increase not only the production of seaweeds but also of fishes in the area.

Meanwhile, Roel Dela Torre, member of Small ‘Likum-Likum’ Fisherfolk Association of Pagadian City said he was happy that the researchers provided them with the necessary knowledge in the production of seaweeds saying that it can help improve the standard of living of local farmers. 

Araw ng Sibugay kicks off

By Emmanuel D. Taghoy

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay– Sibugaynon’s flocked to the capitol grounds yesterday, Feb. 20, to join the opening of the weeklong observance of the 13th Araw ng Zamboanga Sibugay.

With the theme, “Stand firm Sibugaynon’s, go for peace and prosperity,” the weeklong celebration started off with a motorcade followed by a thanksgiving mass and an awarding of plaque of appreciation by Governor Wilter Palma to the founding governor of Zamboanga Sibugay, George T. Hofer, who served the province from 2001-2010.

Zamboanga del Sibugay was carved out of Zamboanga del Sur in 2001.
Another plaque of appreciation was given to the “Yes Movement” for organizing the “Zamboanga Sibugay Team”, a civil society group that has contributed a lot for the province’s development.

The Agri-Fishery Trade fair was also officially opened yesterday, showcasing 16 booths filled with farm and fishery products which were set up by Sibugay’s 16 towns.

The best agri-fishery trade booth shall also be selected using the following criteria: Dress-Up with Display, 20%; Originality, 30%; Artistry, 20%; Cleanliness and Sanitation, 10%; And Sustainability of Products, 20%.
A drums and lyre competition also followed before noon with participants from the different elementary schools and high schools in the province.

Winning schools in elementary and high school categories would each receive P30 thousand cash for first prize, P20 thousand cash for second prize and P10 thousand cash for third prize. 

A consolation prize of P5 thousand cash was also given to each participating school.

The competition was organized and facilitated by the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Provincial Tourism Office.

NYC invites youth leaders for 10th Nat’l Youth Parliament

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The National Youth Commission (NYC) here invites youth leaders to actively participate in the 10th National Youth Parliament (NYP) slated on May 15-19, 2014 in Metro Manila.

Applicants must be active youth leaders, ages 15-30 years old, and must not have been a previous NYP delegate.

Successful applicants will form part of the delegates to the 10th NYP. 

During the parliament, delegates will have the opportunity to get involve in plenary debates and discussions aimed at coming up with policy recommendations. 

The parliament stimulates our law-making process, as the policy recommendations made during the NYP are subsequently endorsed and lobbied to concerned government institutions.

“This is a nationwide gathering of young leaders, conducted every two years,  where the delegates can scrutinize youth issues and recommend policies that will enhance our youth situation in the country,” said Evangelyn Olandag of NYC 9.

Olandag said the successful applicants will be given free food and accommodation during the duration of the parliament.

“Free food and accommodation will be accorded to them kung nasa Manila na sila (when they are in Manila), but travel expenses from point of origin to Manila and back will be shouldered by the participants,” Olandag explained.

Interested applicants are advised to submit or email their application letter/ letter of intent together with the fully accomplished 10th NYP application form to nyp10@nyc.gov.ph. Application form and guidelines may be downloaded at www.nyc.gov.ph 

Video resume is strongly encouraged as this is what the Screening and Selection Committee will use in assessing the applicant‘s delivery and persuasion skills since both are essential qualities of a would-be-delegate to the NYP. It is the closest thing to a face-to-face interview which the committee opted to do away for practical reason.

Applicants may send/email their video resume to d41977vy5h7a@m.youtube.com

“For applicants who are not yet technology savvy, they may visit our office (located at 3rd Floor, Land Bank building, Veterans) and we can assist them in encoding and sending their application data, they may use our computers there,” She said.

Deadline for submission application of application is on March 21 and the notice of successful and unsuccessful applicants will be released on March 28.

DBM-9, LLBO hold barangay administration training in Dipolog

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - A total of 1,040 barangay budget officers participated in the three-day budget administration training conducted here by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the League of Budget Officers, Region IX Inc.(LLBO-INC) recently. 

The training was simultaneously held in three separate venues on Feb. 12 - 14 at the Top Plaza Hotel, Zamboanga del Nore Convention and Sports Center and at the second floor of Building I in Dipolog Boulevard.

Participants from Leon Postigo, Katipunan, Roxas and Labason held their training at Top Plaza while those coming from the municipalities of Pinan, Polanco, Mutia, Siayan, Jose Dalman and Siocon held it at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports and Center.

The third group which was composed of participants from the municipalities of Rizal, Sibutad, La Libertad, Sergio Osmena, Gutalac and Kalawit was holding it at the 2nd floor of Building I, Dipolog City Boulevard.

Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn Uy expressed her gratitude to the DBM for holding such seminar in the city and she hoped that the participants will apply their learning from the three-day training in handling the barangay funds.

Geo-hazard map important, says Zambo. Sur guv

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – Geo-hazard map is very important; it shall not be taken as joke. 

Thus declared Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles during the hazard maps turnover ceremony, orientation and briefing conducted by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) at Alindahaw Hotel here over the weekend.

Governor Cerilles, the event’s guest speaker, said: “With the said map we can easily identify areas in the country which are susceptible and vulnerable to various geologic hazards. It will also help provide information to stakeholders in order to mitigate the impact of disasters such as landslide, flood, etc.”

Cerilles urged the local government units (LGUs) to be serious about urban planning to address disaster-related problems in their respective areas.      

He also challenged the participants to do their fundamental duties to save lives of the people.

“Some of you are working for the LGUs and for national government agencies (NGAs). We have one common obligation, that is the presence of the government to save lives,” said Cerilles to the municipal mayors, municipal disaster risk reduction and management officers, and municipal planning development coordinators.

“The presence of government [requires] doing our job. If we are just going to look at it and just be in ‘Ningas cogon’, many people would suffer from disasters and we could not save their lives,” Cerilles explained. 

National Disaster Risk Reduction Services chief Lenie Duran-Alegre said the flood hazard and rain-induced landslide hazard maps are distributed to the LGUs. 

Alegre said hazard maps are not only for planning but for prevention, mitigation and response purposes. 
“In the event the disaster will happen in your place, you can use these maps for recovery and rehabilitation,” Alegre explained. 

Alegre said the natural disasters that are happening in our country today are becoming bigger and frightening, affecting many regions.

“The supertyphoon ‘Yolanda’ that hit the Visayas region had caused unimaginable damage to thousands of lives and millions worth of properties,” Alegre said. 

Alegre encouraged the participants to unite and help each other saying that “no local government can cope up with its own when natural disasters strike.”    (PIA9)

ZNPPO marks PNP’s 23rd foundation day

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - In recognition of the significance of the organization of the Philippine National Police (PNP),  the Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial Office (ZNPPO) has spearheaded the PNP’s 23rd foundation day celebration here recently with Mayor Evelyn T. Uy as guest of honor and speaker.

Speaking during the anniversary program held at the ZNPPO headquarters at Camp Hamac in barangay Sicayab, Mayor Uy cited the PNP’s enormous contribution to the peace and order condition in the province most especially in Dipolog City. 

Highlighting the celebration was the giving of recognition and awards to deserving police stations, personnel and civilian counterparts.

A bloodletting was also conducted by the Philippine Red Cross and was able to collect 15,000 cc of blood from the PNP personnel.

Police Provincial Director Sr. Supt. James B. Mejia personally handed the awards and recognitions to the awardees.

Dipolog City Police station, Polanco and Roxas Police Stations were recognized for their satisfactory results in the Unit Performance Evaluation Report.

Dipolog CPS was also awarded for its successful implementation of LOI Bravo or the PNP campaign against wanted persons, having arrested 68 wanted persons from January to December 2013.

Dapitan CPS, on the other hand, was recognized for its successful implementation of Special laws such as illegal drugs, illegal gambling and illegal logging with 78 violators apprehended in 2013. Sindangan MPS was also awarded for its implementation of LOI BilangBoga/KontraBoga, with 65 firearms surrendered, turned-over and/or confiscated. Violators were also apprehended during the same period.

Special awards were also given to Pastor Glemar R. Obligar as lecturer during the conduct of Moral Values and Speritual Enhancement Program at the ZNPPO and Ms. Ma. Janice Cañete, a day-care center teacher assigned at the provincial headquarters.

Mejia also urged all PNP personnel “to perform their mandated tasks and continue to establish an effective working relationship with the community to forge a meaningful citizen participation in law enforcement.”

Mejia said ZNPPO’s improved services as shown by its accomplishment for the past two years served as a manifestation of the wholhearted dedication of its men and women.

Pag-ibig spearheads free mass wedding in Dapitan

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DAPITAN CITY - A total of 68 couples from the two cities of Dipolog and Dapitan and other towns of Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental were solemnized in a free mass wedding held at Dapitan City Resort Hotel on Valentine’s Day.

Mr. Cesar C. Bazan, head of Pag-ibig Western Mindanao Housing Business Center, Home Lending Operations, Zamboanga Branch said the free mass wedding is an annual undertaking of Pag-ibig as part of its social commitment to the Filipino people. 

Dapitan City Mayor Rosalina G. Jalosjos, who officiated the wedding, expressed her wish for a happy and lasting relationship for the newly-wed couples and urged them to be faithful to one another.

In the video messages of Pag-ibig Board Chairman, Vice-President Jejomar Binay and Pag-ibig Fund Presient and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Darlene Marie B. Berberabe, both congratulated and expressed their best wishes to the newly-wed couples.

In a raffle draw following the wedding ceremony, the newlyweds received major and minor prizes consisting of umbrellas, food servers and electric irons. Three couples were also given a free night at the hotel - two from Mayor Jalosjos and one from the management of Dapitan City Resort Hotel.

The only option for MILF is peace – Chairman Iqbal

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

ZAMBOANGA CITY – “The option of the MILF is only for peace,” Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Mohaqer Iqbal said in a recent public hearing here on the ongoing peace talks with the Philippine Government.

Iqbal said with the negotiation now in place, war and conflict is never an option to attain lasting peace in Mindanao.

“The option for the MILF is only peace, so that whatever circumstances are in our locality, we always pursue peace because war is not an option,” Iqbal stressed.

Iqbal pointed out that to achieve peace both parties should find the real solution to the problems in Mindanao.

“Even if there are lots of agreements, if we don’t find the real solution we will always find conflict in Mindanao. But for as long as we find the real solution to the problem in Mindanao, Inshallah (God willing), there will be peace in Mindanao,” he said.

Iqbal added that once the solution is found “those groups who continue to fight the government will no longer have cause to fight for there is already peace. So, please let us not give up on peace because this is the only option.”

“As long as we find the right solution to the problem, rest assured, Inshallah, we will have peace in Mindanao,” Iqbal emphasized.