MY PEACE project launched in Zambo City

By: Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY, 22 OCTOBER - - Madrasah Youth Promoting English Advancement for Community Empowerment or MY PEACE project was launched in Sarang Bangun Learning Center, Zamboanga City, Tuesday, October21, 2014 with Mr. Macon Philips, visiting U.S Department of State Official and Coordinator of the U.S Dept. of State Bureau of International Information Program along with other U.S officials gracing the event.

MY PEACE is  a year- long project of the U.S Embassy in Manila, in partnership with the Voice of Mindanao-Zamboanga Peninsula and the support of American Field Service, Fatwah Foundation and the HMIJ Islamic College. It empowers at risk-Madrasah students in Mindanao by providing English language and life skills training as positive alternatives to joining armed groups.

According to Ms. Frances Carreon, Voice of Mindanao program head, “this project is being implemented by a local youth NGO in Mindanao, Voice of Mindanao, Inc., in partnership with the Department of Education in Zamboanga City, and USG Alumni.  The project has two outcomes: teaching English to Madrasah students (Islamic schools); and providing the students with life skills training.”

“This project takes a two-pronged approach, combining English language learning with life skills.  The project began with a training of trainers (TOT) for 30 trained teachers from Zamboanga City with a high level of English proficiency, who participated in intensive 5-day training on English teaching methods.  Following the TOT, the MY Peace Teachers will provide 10 hours per session of English language instruction and 8 hours of English Language Application activities through social enterprise workshops and other lifelong learning to 60 students for one (1) year,” Ms. Carreon explained.

The project consists of 13 sessions which will be conducted on one to two weekends a month. During the project period, the 60 Madrasah students will receive two (2) hours of life skills training per session also delivered by U.S. government exchange program alumni, and entrepreneurial/business/work skills for six (6) hours based on curricular programs of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), under the guidance and supervision of TESDA-certified trainers from MEIN College.

Carreon informed that Sarang Bangun Learning Center will serve as the base of implementation of MY PEACE project.  “This center is furnished with internet connectivity and computer equipment.  In the final three months of the project, the students will be encouraged to put what they have learned to use by creating and implementing community projects,” she concluded. #

DOST distributes ceramic water filter to IPs in ZamPen

By Alma L. Tingcang

BUUG, Zamboanga Sibugay  -  About 30 units of locally-developed water filter technology were distributed here by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-IX during the first anniversary of the Buug Subanen Workers Association  (BSWA) recently.

DOST said the beneficiaries were families of BSWA, making potable   water accessible to the community, which is one of the major development concerns of the government.

Ms. Melanie T. Temonio, Science Research Specialist of DOST Zamboanga Sibugay said the ceramic water filter makes local technology work for the people and provides practical solution to the current problem.

“The 30 units of water filter turned-over to the BSWA was only the initial delivery. DOST has allocated 200 units of Ceramic Water Filter to poor families in Zamboanga Peninsula region whose target beneficiaries are selected indigenous people of Buug, Zamboanga Sibugay and Siayan, Zamboangadel Norte.

Ms. Temonio said the water purification system (WPS) is a simple technology that consists of a container and filtering medium, which is the ceramic pot filter (CPF).

The ceramic filter is made up of red clay, which is coated with nano-colloidal silver as the anti-microbial agent that replaces the chlorination process in traditional water filter systems.

The ceramic pot typically sits or hangs on the top of a large plastic container, which is fitted with a tap at the bottom. A lid is placed on top of the filter to prevent contamination.

The system is capable to purify tap water, deep well water, and raw water tainted with up to 3 % suspended particles or silt and convert these into safe drinking water.

According to the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) of the DOST, the water filter has passed the Philippine National Standards (PNS) for drinking water in terms of microbiological and chemical analysis.

Meanwhile, DOST-IX Regional Director Brenda L. Nazareth-Manzano said that the grant of water filter to the said communities was one of the initiatives of the agency under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST).

Water and sanitation is one component of CEST for the target communities in the region.  It includes livelihood and economic enterprise development, health and nutrition, education and literacy, and disaster risk reduction and mitigation.

Synchronized barangay assembly held in Pagadian City

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – All barangays here have complied with the order from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to conduct a nationwide synchronized barangay assembly on Sunday to report and discuss important issues with their constituents.

The conduct of the synchronized barangay assembly was made in pursuance of Proclamation No. 260 dated Sept. 30, 2014 issued by the DILG mandating all barangays to hold the same on Oct. 12, 2014.

In Barangay Sta. Lucia here, Punong Barangay Nasser Caubaconducted the said activity at 9:00 a.m. with the council members reporting their respective second semester accomplishments.

Cauba also delivered his State of the Barangay Address (SOBA) highlighting his 2014 firs semester accomplishments including the ongoing programs and projects for this year.

In his SOBA, Cauba gave updates onhis programs involving barangay disaster risk reduction management, solid waste management,  peace and order situation, and  preventive measures against illegal drugs.

The 2014 barangay budget, statement of income and expenditures and other barangay financial transactions to include the itemized monthly collections and disbursement summary of income and expenditures were also reported by Barangay Treasurer Cherry Canales.

In Balangasan, the largest barangay in the city, havinga total registered voters of 10,300, the barangay assembly was conducted at 3:00 p.m. at the gym led byPunong Barangay MaphilindoObaob.

Barangay Secretary MetosLibrea reported the first semester accomplishments of all the council members, specifying among others the programs and projects implemented by the council.

Issues and concerns involving peace and order, environmental protection, children’s rights and welfare, solid waste management and infrastructure development were also discussed.

Purok President Nestor Vicente of Capitol Heights proposed to the council that the 27 puroks participate in the implementation of programs and projects.

The conduct of synchronized barangay assembly has been closely monitored by DILG personnel to ensure compliance and maximum participation of all barangays here.

First FAB to celebrate 28th founding anniversary

By Claro A. Lanipa

LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur  –  The 1st Field Artillery (Beat ‘Em) Battalion, Army Artillery Regiment, Philippine Army stationed at Kuta Major Cesar L. Sang-an here will celebrate its 28th founding anniversary on Oct. 21, 2014.

LTC Sonny M. Sales, commanding officer of said Battalion said this year’s theme is Tabak Artilyero, “Kabalikat sa Larangan ng Bayanihan Tungo sa Kaunlaran at Kapayapaan ng Bayan.”

Expected to grace the occasion is no less than the Regiment Commander BGen. Leandro A. Loyao, III who will also serve as the guest of honor and speaker, Sales said.

To make the celebration more meaningful, a series of activities are slated to be held such as  such as sportsfest, fun games, tree planting, fun shoot, 105MM Howitzer challenge, dental civic action program (DENCAP), bloodletting and others.

Advocacy forum on climate change adaptation, mitigation draws support from high school studes

By Gideon C. Corgue

IMELDA, Zamboanga Sibugay  –  The advocacy forum on climate change mitigation and adaptation jointly conducted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA-9) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR9) this year has gained support from high school students in public schools.

The forum, which aims to generate awareness among students on the adverse effects of climate change on the communities, has been conducted in various public secondary schools in the region starting August this year.

James Lavilla, senior high school student of Imelda National High School and president of “I Am A Climate Change Youth Resilient”- Imelda chapter said he was grateful that PIA and DENR had chosen their school to be one of the pilot areas for the advocacy forum.

“We have learned a lot during the forum especially after the 30-minute climate change video presentation on natural disasters that are happening today and the scientific explanation by climate experts on the weather phenomena,” Lavilla said.

Lavilla realized that the students could contribute to climate change mitigation by informing the people in their respective communities on the things they must do during disasters to save lives and properties.

“We will encourage the people to help reduce the impact of climate change through proper waste/garbage disposal and others,” Lavilla added.

“I Am A Climate Change Youth Resilient” Vice President Reighron Soledad said the forum had taught them to be ready in times of emergencies.

Soledad said the climate change experts in the video presentation had not only provided them with the knowledge on the causes and effects of climate change but also recommended mitigation and adaptation measures.

“We are now ready to respond,” said Soledad, as they are now equipped with the necessary knowledge in responding to natural disasters.

“With the newly formed group, we can assure the government of our help by informing the concerned national government agencies and local government units, and post pictures on the wall of “I Am A Climate Change Youth Resilient” facebook in the event that natural disasters will strike in our respective communities,” Soledad added.

The said forum was already conducted in the following schools, namely, Alicia National High School in Alicia town,  Buug National High School in Buug municipality, and Imelda National High School in Imelda town all in Zamboanga Sibugay.

Climate change fora were also conducted in Bayog National High School in Bayog town, Tukuran Technical Vocational School in Tukuran, and Molave Vocational Technical School, Molave all in the province of Zamboanga del Sur.

Meanwhile, climate change fora in the province of Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga City are still going on.

PIA-ZNPIC conducts 2nd CCAC forum in Dapitan

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DAPITAN CITY - The Philippine Information Agency-Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Information Center (PIA-ZNPIC) in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Education (DepEd) has conducted on Friday, Oct. 10, the second leg of its advocacy forum on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation at the Dapitan City National High School (DCNHS) this city.

A total of 210 students consisting of officers and members of the science club, YES-O and Supreme Student Government (SSG) participated in the said activity with their science teachers.

Barangay officials and a health worker of Barangay Banonong also turned up during the forum.

In her welcome message, Master Teacher Regie Bait-it representing school principal Sherlito Sagapsapan, pointed out the importance and relevance of the forum to address the ill-effects of climate change.

Bait-it thanked PIA for choosing DCNHS to be a part of the campaign, urging the students to listen attentively to the video presentations and lectures during the forum.

PIA-9 Assistant Regional Director Franklin P. Gumapon cited the importance of the forum and explained to the participants the factors that contribute to climate change such like the use of fossil fuels by big factories, vehicles and other machineries.

Gumapon shared his experience in Tacloban City which was hardly-hit by super-typhoon Yolanda late last year and his recent trip to Taganak Island where he personally witnessed two of the 5 species of turtles found in the Philippines.

Taganak island is one of the islands comprising Turtle Islands municipality in the province of Tawi-tawi. 

The forum was conducted to promote awareness on climate change among the youth particularly the students as well as the community to come up with an appropriate and comprehensive plan of action to mitigate the impact of climate change on the humans.

The activity ended up with the election of officers of Climate Change Youth Advocates, recitation of the Kalikasan Pledge and commitment signing.

PIA-ZNPIC has targeted six fora to be conducted in the province this year.

AFP, PNP push for societal approach to win peace in Basilan

by Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Basilan were one in saying that winning the peace in Basilan requires societal approach.

At the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC)emergency meeting last Sept. 28, the army and the police strongly encouraged the full engagement of all sectors of the society in building and sustaining peaceful communities in Basilan.

Both leaders of the army and the police have been calling for the support of the community and strong political will from the local government units (LGUs) in addressing the rising crime incidence in Basilan.

104thBde Commander Col. Rolando Joselito Bautista underscored that “a societal approach is needed to win the peace in Basilan.” He equated peace with development and prosperity. He believes that with community engagement, lawless elements will have difficulty in operating in their communities.

He echoed the aspiration of Board Member YusopAlano and Nagdilaab Foundation Executive Director Miriam Suacito on the need for the government to reach out to the youth, who are lured by criminal elements into joining the band in exchange of firearms and money.

“The problem in Basilan is complex, complicated, and generational. And this could not be solved by the military alone but [also] from other aspects. We are talking here about development; teaching the out-of-school youth; engage the Ulamas in teaching the young. It is the whole of society—a societal approach is needed,” Col. Bautista said.

Meanwhile, Basilan police chief PS/Supt. Mario M. Dapilloza stressed that the work of the police usually ended upon capture of the suspects and filing of the case in court. He reiterated the call for a concerted effort, serious efforts from stakeholders.

“But we still have problems with the communities and the need for society’s help in educating the people and supporting their livelihood in order for us to address the peace and order condition of our community,” he said.

PPOC Presiding Officer Vice Governor Keemhar Jay R. Sakkalahul observed that government must begin to rethink about its strategies in dealing with criminalities and terrorists.

“It seems that our strategies are already outdated. The lawless elements are coming up with their own new strategies and tactics to sow terror and atrocities. It is high time to develop new strategies with the new army brigade commander,” Sakkalahul said.

The vice governor hopes to hear results and action rather than mere reports of figures of incidence and criminalities and victims in succeeding PPOC meetings.

The Basilan police reported that there was a rising incidence of criminalities in Basilan, where crime volume reported doubled from January to September 2014 at 269 casescompared to 177 in the same period last year.  The figure does not include that of Isabela City, however.

Signature campaign vs “pork barrel” rolled out in Sibugay

By: Emmanuel D. Taghoy

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – Sibugaynons supporting “Abolish Pork Barrel Movement” assembled Thursday, Oct. 3, to launch a signature campaign against the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) and the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP).

People’s Initiative (PI) convenors involving church leaders and workers, civil society organizations, cooperatives, business and youth sector and others attended the assembly dubbed “People’s Forum,” which was speaheaded by Bayan Muna Representative Carlos Isagani T. Zarate and PI-Mindanao convenor Joel G. Virador.

According to Virador, the activity was part of the “People’s Initiative to Abolish Pork Barrel,” a campaign of the Makabayan Coalition.

The Makabayan Coalition or Makabayang Koalisyon ng Mamamayan is a political coalition of 12 Philippine progressive parties composed of Bayan Muna, Anakpawis, Gabriela, Kabataan, Courage, Migrante, ACT-Teachers, Katribu, Akap Bata, Piston, Kalikasan and Aking Bikolnon. It seeks to abolish PDAF and DAP, which are said to be source of graft and corruption in the government.

The initiative aimed to gather signatures about three percent of the total number of registered voters in a legislative district and 10 percent of signatures from the total number of registered voters in the entire country.

“The signature will then be used to create a referendum after verification and certification of the Commission on Election,” said Virador.

Zarate also explained that Pork Barrel became anomalous as “it was used in patronage politics.”
Most Reverend Julius S. Tonel, bishop of the Diocese-Ipil also read the CBCP pastoral statement supporting the abolition of pork barrel.

“This is an offense against God who commanded us ‘Thou shall not steal and Thou shall not covet your neighbor’s goods’,” Tonel said.

He emphasized that the people’s response to the Pork Barrel issue must not be viewed as protest but contrition to address the “worsening social cancer” brought about by the pork barrel.

CCAC forum kicks off in Dipolog

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY  –  An advocacy forum on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) kicked off yesterday, Oct. 8, at the Dipolog City National High School (DCNHS) this city.

The activity was attended by high school students consisting of officers of the Supreme Student Government (SSG) and class officers from Grade 7 to 4th year of the said school, science teachers, barangay officials, and personnel from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources (PENRO) led by Ms. Elsie Adorable, protected area wildlife and coastal zone management specialist.

Dr. Joselito Tizon, the school principal, asked the students to listen attentively and take down notes on the lectures and information about climate change during the forum.

“We are fortunate to be chosen as the first school for this advocacy forum on climate change adaptation and mitigation conducted by PIA in partnership with the DENR,” Dr. Tizon said.

He reminded the students that anything taken up in the forum would form part of their quizzes and recitations in their science subjects.

Information Center Manager Alfonso T. Ruda of PIA-Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Information Center also told the participants that “the advocacy forum on climate change adaptation and mitigation aims to promote awareness among the youth sector and the community for them to take action on environmental issues and concerns.”

PIA-9 Assistant Regional Director Franklin P. Gumapon, on the other hand, explained to participants the importance of mitigation and adaptation to climate change, citing the experience of Tacloban City and other parts of Leyte during the onslaught of typhoon Yolanda last year.

Yesterday’s CCAC forum was the first leg of the six fora to be conducted by PIA-ZNPIC.

Senior citizens show off talents during elderly week culmination

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY  –  It was a day of entertainment when more than 600 senior citizens from the different barangays flaunted their talents during the culmination of elderly week celebration on Tuesday at the covered court in Plaza Luz here.

Sultan Pangsayan Radi Sr., president of the Federation of Senior Citizen Association of the Philippines (FESCAP)-Pagadian City chapter, said the elderly week celebration last Oct. 1-7 was capped by a foot parade along the city’s major thoroughfares.

This year’s celebration has for its theme, “Ang Nakakatanda ay Yaman. Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bayan, Pangalagaan Kanilang Karapatan.”

“This is the first time that the city’s enthusiastic elderlies hold parade around the city,” Radi said adding  “the weeklong celebration focuses on the vital role of senior citizens and their valuable contributions to our society.”

The FESCAP, Radi said, also conducted a free medical mission, gave recognition to six most active FESCAP chapters and organized a whole-day entertainment program for the members to show off their talents before the public.

“Senior citizens were happy to share their talents through songs, dances, poems, etc. during the yearly event,” Radi said.
Radi also thanked the local government unit (LGU) through Mayor Romeo Pulmones for actively supporting the said activity by extending financial assistance and helping promote and enforce the rights and wellbeing of the elderly.

Sixty-five-year-old Lumen Abacahin, FESCAP member of Lumbia chapter and former employee of City Agriculturist Office, said she enjoyed seeing her fellow senior citizens – composed mostly of retirees from public and private organization - gathered together. “This is the only day that all senior citizens come together to mingle with each other.”

“I hope that the city government and DSWD will continue to support us- the senior citizens - particularly on our rights because when we served the government, we have contributed our knowledge, skills and experience for the improvement of our society,” she added.

Pantawid beneficiaries need to be prepared for climate change – DSWD

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY  –  Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries, considered one of the most vulnerable groups in society, are especially in high risk of being affected by the effects of climate change, thus the need for them to be prepared.

After a forum on climate change adaptation and mitigation held by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) during the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Vitali District Inter-Agency Committee (DIAC) meeting on Friday, Oct. 3, involving school teachers, social workers and barangay officials, DSWD City Link Joel Capo emphasized the urgency to inform the beneficiaries on ways and means to be prepared in case calamities would strike.

“Our beneficiaries especially those living here within the Sibulao-Vitali areas are very prone to natural hazards like flooding,” shared Capo. “The information that we have learned from the forum would be very useful to them.”

Capo furthered that with more information they could easily integrated the knowledge in open forums with the beneficiaries.

“We will very much like to include climate change adaptation in our regular family development sessions with the beneficiaries,” he added.

Barangay Sibulao is located about 78 kilometers from the city proper. According to barangay captain Pablo Ramos, the community would occasionally experience flooding.

“We would have difficulty especially during the rainy seasons,” Ramos said. “The effects of the flooding would cause crops and farm products to be wasted.”

If not physically harmed by the floods, residents explained that their livelihood would be compromised, considering most of them are highly dependent on farming.

“Afectao lang siempre kame (we are still affected),” said a Sibulao resident. “Mas qui miembro kame de Pantawid, necesita pa siempre man kayod. Paquilaya ya lang si man baha ay perde de amon la vida (Even though we are members of Pantawid, we still need to earn. It would be very difficult to earn a living if our crops would be wasted by the floods.)”

“The need to be prepared for the effects of climate change does not entail only being prepared physically, but also socially and economically,” said Dave Malcapo, PIA information center manager. “It is best, especially for the Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries to be prepared since they, being poor are very vulnerable.”

DOST-9 lauds BSWA for successful implementation of livelihood projects

By Gideon C. Corgue

BUUG, Zamboanga Sibugay  –  The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-9 has commended the Buug Subanen Workers Association (BSWA) for successfully implementing the livelihood projects granted by various national government agencies (NGAs).

In his message during the first founding anniversary of BSWA held last Sept. 30 at the Multi-Purpose Bldg. at Barangay Manlin here, DOST-9 Assistant Regional Director Mahmud Kingking said “with the government interventions, BSWA was able to establish Pangase rice wine and Pangase Adlai wine factory, undergo series of trainings by Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and became a recipient of P3-million worth of organic center from DA.

Kingking also expressed optimism that with the ongoing projects of BSWA, the quality of lives of indigenous peoples (IPs) would be improved.

“The projects that BSWA is having now is a concrete manifestation that the government is there and always ready to extend its programs and services to the marginalized sectors of our society,” Kingking said adding “we want to let you feel the presence of our government in your community.”

DOST-9 donated 50 water purifiers to BSWA to ensure safe and clean drinking water for all IPs in the area.
“When we arrived here before, we have not seen any livelihood activities of the IPs but now, because of government’s support, you have started your livelihood projects particularly the wine and vinegar making,” Kingking said.

“The project help boost the income of the members and this will soon generate employment.” 
Kingking also underscored the importance of IPs knowledge on new technologies for something tangible
“It’s possible for us to transform our community into a very productive one if we will use technologies that are invented by our Filipino scientists,” Kingking explained.  
“With the technology, nothing is impossible,” Kingking concluded.

DENR, PIA beef up advocacy on environmental concerns

By: Alma L. Tingcang

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay  –  The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will embark on a massive awareness and advocacy campaign on the protection, conservation and management of the environment and natural resources in this province starting next week.

DENR-9 Regional Director Arleigh J. Adorable said the activity will spur the participation of stakeholders, particularly students and the academe to become partners in environmental protection.

The Regional Public Affairs Office (RPAO) will spearhead the series of symposia with the support of the Philippine Information Agency at Sibugay Technical Institute Inc., Marian College and Ipil Heights National High School, including a Dalaw Turo Session at Zamboanga Sibugay National High School-Campus A.
Dalaw Turo (DT) is a form of folk media adopted by DENR-Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) as its communication tool in teaching biodiversity conservation especially in protected areas. It is aimed at raising awareness on the importance of biodiversity protection and involving people’s participation in its conservation. DT uses various methodologies such as environmental games, skits and lectures. Its primary audience is the school community including the teachers.

4Ps beneficiaries, stakeholders join DSWD-SLP partnership forum cum job fair in Dipolog

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY  –  Some 500 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries and various partner-stakeholders participated in the two-day Partnership Forum cum Job Fair 2014 conducted here recently by the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Sustainable Livelihood Program (DSWD-SLP) in partnership with the provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte through its Public Employment Services Office (PESO).

The two-day activity gathered various stakeholders from the different sectors that have significant contribution especially in providing employment opportunities to qualified 4Ps beneficiaries.

It also aimed to strengthen the partnership and renewal of commitment between partner-stakeholders in keeping with the challenge and mandate of uplifting the lives of said beneficiaries within the province.

“Do not hold back from those who ask your help when it is within your power to do so,” Governor Roberto Y. Uy said in his message as read by his executive secretary.

DSWD-SLP Dipolog Cluster expressed its gratitude for the sincere commitment of all partners in making the said event a success.

The problem of poverty can be remedied through strong partnership and collaborative efforts between private and public sector by converging its resources and expertise, said a DSWD official.

Meanwhile, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) have also extended their utmost support to the event.

Banking institutions, microfinance institutions, insurance company, employment agencies and NGOs also extended their support to the said activity.

These groups include Paglaum Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Katipunan Bank, Cebuana Lhuiller, Citi Hardware, Rural Transit of Mindanao Incorporated, Mediatrix Homes Incorporated, Vicente Lao Construction, Concha Construction, Dipolog Trusted Employment Agency, Maanyag International Manpower Agency, Dipolog Trusted Employment Agency, Philippine Call Center Institute, Zamboanga del Norte Federation of Parents’ Association, ABCDE Foundation, Technology and Livelihood Development Center and Philippine National Red Cross – ZN Cluster.

DOLE-9 Assistant Regional Director Albert Gutib, DSWD-SLP Provincial Coordinator Alex Z. Sabal, ZN-PESO Manager Ryan Victor Miranda, 4Ps Provincial Link Focal Person Jose D. Cruz, Dipolog SWADT leader Ma. Eva E. Avila were also present during the said event.

Byog town observes Senior Citizens’ Week

BAYOG, Zamboanga del Sur  –  To pay tribute to elderly persons for their contributions to the community and in nation building, the municipal government here has feted the senior citizens with a program at the municipal gymnasium to mark the start of the Senior Citizens’ week celebration last Oct. 1.

In his inspirational messaged, Mayor Leonardo L. Babasa Jr. reiterated the salient provisions of Republic Act 9994, better known as the “Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010,” that provides more benefits and privileges to elderlies.

Under this law older persons are entitled to 20% discount on the purchase of certain goods and services. Special 5% discount on prime commodities and basic necessities, and 5% utility discount on electric and water consumption.

On top of these, eligible indigent senior citizens are also entitled to a monthly social pension of P500 under the government social pension program implemented by the DSWD.

It can be recalled that Presidential Proclamation No. 470 has declared every first week of October each year as “Elderly Filipino Week.”

This year’s theme is “Nakakatanda ay Yaman, Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bayan, Pangalagaan Kanilang Kapakanan.”

Some 700 senior citizens from the municipality’s 28 barangays turned up in said activity with Vice Mayor Celso Matias and some members of the Sangguniang Bayan.

To make the program more entertaining and lively, different games and contests were given to the participants by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) led by Gloria Magtortol.

PIA-9 beefs up advocacy on climate change adaptation, mitigation

By: Emmanuel D. Taghoy

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – “Do you know what climate change is? What are you doing about it?” 
These were the questions posed by Information Center Manager Alma L. Tingcang of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Sibugay to high school students attending the advocacy fora on climate change adaptation and mitigation on Sept. 26, 29 and 30 in the municipalities of Alicia, Imelda and Buug, respectively.

“I believe mankind perceived climate change as something fictitious, but it is real and is happening. What we need to do is change our attitude towards it and adapt to the changes in our climate,” Ms. Tingcang stressed.

PIA-9 is embarking on a massive advocacy campaign relative to Climate Change Resiliency and Adaptation in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

It aims to equip students with knowledge in coping with disasters, address apathy toward climate change, and popularize adaptation measures.

 “For people to be proactive, we need to inform them how to handle emergency situation, what to prepare and what to do during typhoons, storm surge, floods, landslides, earthquake and other disaster preparedness tips which would eventually save lives,” said Tingcang.

More than a hundred students attended the advocacy forum in all three schools composed mainly of presidents, vice presidents and secretaries of the different student organizations and clubs.

The school heads have also expressed their gratitude to PIA for the conduct of the advocacy fora in their respective schools.

Alicia, Imelda and Buug are identified as flood, landslide and sea surge-prone municipalities. So, these became priority areas for advocacies on climate change adaptation and mitigation.

DTI holds mango forum in ZamPen

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-9 in partnership with the Mango Cluster Technical Working Group (TWG) and the Pagadian City Zamboanga del Sur Mango Growers Association conducted on Wednesday a Mango Forum for Zamboanga Peninsula Cluster at Hotel Guillermo here.

Anchored on the theme “Gearing up ZamPen Mango Stakeholders for the 2015 ASEAN Integration,” the forum was participated in by some 60 mango producers, spraying contractors, traders and other government agencies from all over the region.

DTI-9 Regional Director Sitti Amina Jain in her opening message said “this a very good venue for us to exchange information, developments, ideas, challenges and opportunities needed  for the mango industry as we face a very good opportunity in the ASEAN economic integration.”

She said added “this is the best time and venue for us to hear from you – your concerns, challenges and problems that are preventing the industry from growing as we are expecting.”

“In terms of industry as a whole are we really growing? Are we going out of Region 9, are we going out of Zamboanga del Sur and ultimately are we going to really bring our mango outside?” Jain asked.

“We are looking at the ASEAN economic integration as a big opportunity, because we are considering the 600 million population of the six-member ASEAN countries as a huge market for mango,” Jain stressed.

Meanwhile, Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio Cerilles whose message was read by Provincial Agriculturist Joel Sabellano, was elated that his province was chosen as the venue of the mango forum. “We understand the significance of mango in our economy.

The Philippine mango is very competitive; it is somehow much sweeter than the mango from Europe,” the governor said.

On the other hand, Philippine Mango Industry Federation Inc. president, Virginia Dela Fuente who was the keynote speaker during the forum, challenged the local mango producers to organize and empower themselves in order for the industry to progress and succeed.

DA9 chief urges IP farmers to plant ‘climate change-resistant’ varieties of rice, corn

 By Gideon C. Corgue

BUUG, Zamboanga Sibugay – Department of Agriculture (DA)-9 Regional Director Constancio Alama on Monday has called on the members of Buug Subanenen Workers Association (BSWA) to plant varieties of rice that can withstand the adverse impacts of climate change.

Speaking before a group of indigenous peoples (IP) here, Alama said the DA is now promoting food staples sufficiency program to ensure that every Filipino will have food on his  table.

Alama said farmers should plant rice and other staple crops that can weather the ill effects of climate change. “Our farmers nowadays are greatly affected by the adverse effects of climate change,” he said.

“In climate change, we have nowhere to run, and nowhere to hide. If we will not act now, we will become endangered species soon,” Alama stressed adding that our crops could no longer survive due to the extreme weather condition brought about by climate change.

Alama also disclosed that the government has developed rice varieties that are resistant to drought to help farmers cope with the ill effects of climate change.

The International Research and Institute and Philippine Rice Institute (PhilRice), he said, has recommended the following rice varieties for the farmers to counteract the threat of the weather phenomenon: “Submarino” rice that can withstand up to seven days of submergence in flooded fields, “salod ulan,” a drought-resistant variety, and Green Super Rice (GSR), another variety that can withstand drought and diseases.

Alama encouraged also the IPs to avail themselves of financial assistance and interventions of the government by forming a group. “We required farmers to form a group and have it registered with the government to have a juridical personality,” Alama told the group, as DA would only extend financial assistance to registered groups.

Meanwhile, BSWA president Timuay Jocelyn Chua was very grateful to DA for granting the group some financial assistance.

“Dako ang among utang kabubut-on sa mga ahensya sa kagamhanan nga mitabang ilabi na gayud sa DA sa hinabang pinansyal nga gihatag sa among kapunungan. Pinaagi sa ilang tabang ang BSWA epektibo nga naglihok karon isip usa ka kapunugan,” said Chua.

(We owe debt of gratitude to the agencies of the government especially the DA for extending financial assistance to our organization. With this help, BSWA is now working effectively as an organization.)

DENR-9, Ramon Magsaysay town ink MOA on Bambusetum establishment

By Franklin P. Gumapon

RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Zamboanga del Sur – A memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9 and this town has been signed here yesterday for the establishment of a “Bambusetum” in the municipality with Regional Director Arleigh Adorable and Mayor Leonilo D. Borinaga Sr. as signatories.

Once completed, this Bambusetum (a bamboo demonstration area) is the second in region 9; the first one was set up in a one-hectare lot in Pasonanca, Zamboanga City. 

In his welcome statement, Mayor Borinaga said that bamboo is the municipality’s one town, one product (OTOP), as it is producing a variety of bamboo crafts such as “sawali” (woven split bamboo mats), baskets, furniture and many others.

Borinaga also disclosed that this bamboo craft making in his town has been in existence for more than 50 years now since it was introduced by people from Cebu and Siquijor who migrated here.

The municipality will soon be producing engineered bamboos for floor tiles, furniture, tabletops and wall panels, as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has allotted some P3.5 million for the procurement of machineries for the purpose.

To encourage the locals to go on bamboo production, the Technology Transfer Division (TTD) of DENR’s Ecosystems Research and Development Service (ERDS) is now conducting a two-day forum on bamboo production and utilization with the members of Ramon Magsaysay Bamboo Association (RAMAGBA) and those living in the municipality’s flood-prone areas as participants. The said forum will end today.

Speaking before the participants, ERDS Regional Technical Director Gil Ona told them “bamboo is now called ‘green gold of the century’ as a potential export commodity.”

Subscribing to Ona’s statement, Director Adorable has encouraged the participants to plant bamboos to ensure a continuous supply for the bamboo craft industry in the municipality.

DOH, concerned agencies prepare for possible entry of MERS-CoV in ZamPen

By: Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Department of Health (DOH) here takes tight preparations as roughly 3,000 Filipino pilgrims from Mecca, Saudi Arabia are set to arrive here starting next week.

As the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus or MERS-CoV has been spreading in the Middle East virtually uncontrolled, DOH met with various government agencies concerned last Sept. 30 to discuss interim guidelines for the preparedness and response to MERS-CoV. The disease has no known cure yet.

Dr. Venus Fortuna, head of DOH’s Infections Diseases, briefed the agency-participants on their specific roles in response to MERS-CoV, especially that a week from now, Muslim brothers and sisters who performed hajj in Mecca, SA are set to go back home here or in any parts of Region 9 and the ARMM.

DOH is also closely coordinating with hospitals here and health workers as part of the health department’s action and preparation in case a suspected infected/contaminated traveler (pilgrim) is noted.

The lady doctor explained, MERS-CoV is a viral respiratory illness first reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012. She said Camels are considered the reservoir of the disease though did not elaborate on it.

She said, MersCov mimics the symptoms of an ordinary flu and has an incubation period of 14 days. 
Most people who have been confirmed to be positive of the disease developed fever, cough and shortness of breath.

So far, MERS-CoV cases have been linked to countries in and near the Arabian Peninsula.
“It is important to have respiratory hygiene, hugas kamay (hand washing),” Dr. Fortuna said.

The disease can be spread through close contact, such as caring for and living with an infected person or via droplets.

“There is no vaccine for MERS-CoV specifically,” the lady doctor said.

It is important that if one has history of travel from the Arabian Peninsula, he/she should immediately submit himself/herself for test and should be isolated to avoid spread of the disease.

DOST conducts SETUP orientation in Labason

By Alfonso T. Ruda

LABASON, Zamboanga del Norte - The provincial office of the Department iof Science and Technology (DOST) in Zamboanga del Norte has conducted on Monday an orientation on Small Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP)at the Farmers Center, Office of the Municipal Agriculturist in this municipality.

The activity was designed to help the small enterprises in the locality to adopt technology innovations to improve their operations and boost their productivity and competitiveness.

Science Research Specialist Marilyn M. Cadag said the eight priority sectors of SETUP include food processing; furniture; gifts, décor and handicrafts;marine and aquatic resources; agriculture and horticulture such as cut flowers, fruits and high-value crops; health-related products; metals and engineering, technology; and information and communication technology (ICT) electronics.

Beneficiaries of the program are those companies or individual firms based in the Philippines and are entirely owned by Filipino citizens. 

Cadagsaidany small and medium-scale business firms, classified under the identified priority sectors and individual firms willing to apply technological improvements to their existing operation, are eligible to avail of the program.

Interested applicants for SETUP assistance shall only send a letter of interest with all the requirements to the office of the DOST Regional Director, identifying the current problems and improvements and the potential technological interventions they need.

“Once the DOST regional office finds the project viable, it approves and endorsesthe application to the Undersecretary for Regional Operations for DOST Executive Committee’s final evaluation,” Cadag said.

Interested applicants of the program are advised to submit the following documents to the DOST provincial office in Turno, Dipolog City: comprehensive proposal; letter of interest; commitment of repayment, including the proposed payment schedule; copy of business permits and licenses from the concerned local government units and other government offices; financial statements of at least for the past three years of operation, duly signed by the registered accountant/auditor; projected financial statement for the next five years; Certificate of Registration of Business Name with DTI, SEC or CDA; Board Resolution regarding the borrowing and designating authorized signatories for the financial assistance (if applicable); three quotations from suppliers/fabricators of the equipment to be purchase/fabricated, and; technical design/drawing of the equipment to be purchased/fabricated.

Among the participants of the one-day orientation-seminar were the local businessmen, farmers,fishermen and other stakeholders.

VLAP national convention set Oct. 1-3 in Pagadian

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – The Volunteer Leaders Association of the Philippines (VLAP) in close coordination with the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) and the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office (DA-RFU)-9 will spearhead the conduct of VLAP National Convention on Oct. 1-3, 2014 at Farmers Haven, Dao, this City.

This year’s theme is “VLAP @ 50: Mobilizing Holistic Development Initiatives through Volunteerism and Oneness.”

More or less 300 VLAP members, officers, ATI and DA-RFU staff from all over the country are expected to participate in the convention.

Mr. Rudy N. Mostar, VLAP national president said VLAP constitutes significant segment in the Rural Based Organization (RBO) and serves as catalyst in farm youth (4H) development and empowerment.

“VLAP also serves as local support system that provides vital fragment in crafting timely and relevant interventions for more awareness concerning 4-H club works and reaching out to more numbers of youth in their respective communities,” Mostar said,
Moreover, he said, these volunteers play a great role in supplementing the government’s efforts toward agricultural development.