OCD-9 spearheads ICT Bayanihan training in Zambo

By:Emmanuel D. Taghoy

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Office of the Civil Defense (OCD)-9 spearheaded recently a two-day Emergency Telecommunications Cluster Summit dubbed “ICT Bayanihan” at the Grand Astoria Hotel here.

It was attended by the regional and local disaster risk reduction and management council (DRRMC)-member agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA), National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Army (PA), Philippine Air Force, Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Philippine Information Agency, among others.

Acting Regional Director Emilia Julhajan of OCD-9 said the activity aimed to establish and institutionalize a rapid emergency telecommunications team (RETT) in the region and strengthen each of the key players capacity in disaster preparedness and response particularly on the field of information, communications and technology (ICT).

She said “the activity looks into the elements that are necessary to achieve greater information sharing, tasks division, operational planning, creation of unified efforts and the institutionalization of the most important element of disaster management cycle, which is the ICT in the disaster management program.”

“Aside from showcasing your respective ability, it is an opportunity to link ourselves with each other through communication so that we be able to react effectively and efficiently in case of a disaster,” she added.

OCD Undersecretary Ricardo Jalad, who graced the second day of the event said “it is unique. It is not just a training but a training with commitment. It does not end here but continues as we faced disasters. I hope we will continue to work together for the benefit of the many.”

The RETT will be implemented through a conglomeration of the Emergency Telecommunications Cluster (ETC) that will be regularly in contact with each other and promote convergence, unified actions and provide better working relationships. 

July 30 is last day of SK registration, says NYC

By:Emmanuel D. Taghoy

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The National Youth Commission (NYC) announces that the last day of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) or the Youth Council voters registration will be until Saturday, July 30, only.

Those who want to register must be at least 15 but not older than 30 years old on the day of elections, which will be on October 31, and a resident of the barangay for at least six months prior to the election day.

Registration has started last July 15.

Youths who will be registering may visit their local Commission on Elections (COMELEC) office from 8 a.m. to 5p.m.

Ms. Karenne Añover of NYC-9 said COMELEC offices are open daily including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

“They must bring with them any of the identification cards such as office ID, postal ID, PWD discount ID, driver’s, SSS/GSIS ID, student ID, passport or a clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI),” she said referring to the requirements needed in the registration.

“Or they can bring any valid document indicating their date of birth and current address.”

Añover said those who have already registered and voted during the May 9, 2016 national and local elections are automatic registrants for the SK elections.

She also emphasized that SK registration is free.

DOST-9 marks 2016 Regional S&T Week in Dipolog

by: Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-9 celebrated the 2016 Regional Science and Technology (S&T) Week here in this city where the opening program and exhibit were held on Monday, July 25, at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Sports Center.

Showcasing DOST’s top technologies and services, this countrywide weeklong celebration aims to encourage the Filipinos to become the nation’s next great scientific mind in support of the theme, “Juan Science. One Nation,”

It also addressed the six outcome areas of DOST, namely, Industry Competitiveness, Enterprise Development, Health and Nutrition, Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) and eGovernment, Education and Research and Disaster Preparedness.

“Look around, pick a problem and change the world,” BAG943 Founder Josh P. Mahinay, a social entrepreneur, stressed in his inspirational message during the said activity.

He explained that when we do something, we must think what we can give back to the community.

“You are never too poor to give, never too busy to serve, never too young to start something, and never too ordinary to do great things,” Mr. Mahinay emphasized.

Meanwhile, the products that were displayed during the exhibit at the ZNCSC can be bought online at onestore.ph web portal.

This website primarily aims to strengthen the small and medium enterprises assisted by the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) of DOST which provides customers with an effortless shopping experience and gives retailers direct access to the consumers.

Present during the opening program were Dipolog City Mayor Darel Dexter T. Uy, DOST-9 Regional Director Brenda L. Nazareth-Manzanoand her assistant regional director, Martin A. Wee, Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga, representatives from the other government agencies as well as science teachers and students from the different schools in the province.

Pushers, users have until July 31 to surrender - PNP

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Drug users and pushers are given a deadline until July 31 only to surrender to the police to avoid being tracked down and arrested, or killed should they resist and fight back.

“You have until July 31 to surrender,” said Police Superintendent Rogelio Alabata, spokesperson of Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9) yesterday. Alabata said that the deadline was specified by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.

Since President Rodrigo Roa Duterte assumed office, over 20,000 drug surrenderees have been tallied in the Zamboanga Peninsula region alone. Alabata expects this number to rise.

“The police are employing a two-front approach in the fight against illegal drugs,” Alabata said. These approaches are Oplan Tokhang (Tok-tok Hangyo) and another approach for High Value Targets (HVT). 

“In Oplan Tokhang, police literally knock on the doors of these pushers and users, and we politely ask them to surrender,” Alabata explained. The police conduct these visits house to house, with the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC).

The Oplan is done with the following procedures: collecting of information on the said drug user/pusher; coordination with the BADAC, the house-to-house visits, validation, and the monitoring of the suspects after they surrender.

However, it was learned that there is still no program for the surenderees. Alabata emphasized the need for inter-agency coordination to develop a viable and reliable program to prevent the users from going back to the drug life.

“We need everyone’s help, especially the communities. Please inform us of drug users and pushers that you know of in your barangays. We are saving their lives,” he said. 

‘Volunteerism Story Writing’ tilt for college studes is on

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – Undergraduate college students who are presently taking or done with the National Service Training Program (NSTP) are now invited to join the “Volunteerism Writing Contest” spearheaded by the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

This writing competition aims to engage the Filipino youth in promoting volunteerism “as a way of life and cross-cutting tool for socio-economic development.”

Anchored on the theme “Volunteerism for Sustainable Development,” each participant shall write a feature story on the experiences and contributions of an individual and/or organization to achieving the United Nation’s sustainable development goals and the Philippines’ commitment to the global development priorities.

In her letter to the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9, Regional Director Teresita Socorro C. Ramos of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-9 bared that each region will have a winning entry for this contest.

The contestant shall submit both printed and electronic copies of his/her entry on or before Aug. 31, 2016. The e-copy in portable document format  (PDF) must be sent by email at info@pnvsca.gov.ph and the printed copy in a brown envelope to Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency, Ground Floor, Philippine sugar Center Building, North Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City.

The feature story must have a title, be in PDF, written in English, typewritten, double spaced with font size Arial 11; top, bottom, left and right margins must be one inch; maximum number of words is 1,800; name and signature of the participant are written at the top left-hand corner of each page.

The criteria for judging are relevance to the theme – 40 percent, understanding of volunteerism for development – 20 percent, creativity – 20 percent, and language proficiency – 20 percent.

Only one entry per student is allowed and co-authored entries will not be accepted.

The entry should not have been previously published in a printed or an online material and should not have been submitted in any government or private organization-administered contest.

Contest guidelines, mechanics and entry forms can be downloaded at PNVSCA’s website, www.pnvsca.gov.ph and facebook page www.facebook.com/innovatecooperateinspire and at CHED’s website, www.ched.gov.ph.

Hundreds join earthquake drill in Maluso

by Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Over 700 students and teachers from Maluso town recently participated in the nationwide earthquake drill at Claret School of Maluso.

At the sound of the siren, the earthquake drill started and students executed the evacuation procedures and simulated rescue and response to victims. Participants evacuated at the open ground of the campus and rescue teams led by Philippine Red Cross volunteers were immediately deployed to recover the victims, conduct first aid, and bring them to open field.

Before the drill, an orientation about disaster preparedness and earthquake drill was conducted with resource persons from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-BASULTA, the Philippine Information Agency in Basilan, and the Philippine Red Cross.

In his message, Maluso town Mayor Hani Bud underscored the importance of the drill to inculcate in the people’s consciousness to be always prepared in times of disaster.

“We are privileged that the national government agencies hold this activity here in Maluso to give us basic information on what shall we do in times of calamities,” the mayor said as he recognized the vulnerability of the country to natural calamities.

He underscored the importance of acquiring basic knowledge and information about calamities and disaster in order to appropriately respond and prevent widespread consequences or repercussions.

He said that in spite of calamities like fire, typhoons, earthquake, that frequently hit the country, “we have not created concrete measures in order to lessen the damage.”

“I still have to give my order to the DRRM officer to ensure that you can reach us 24/7 in times of emergency. Your local government is always ready to respond to calamities and emergencies,” he declared.

He urged the participants and students to “walk the talk” and “practice what we preach” after acquiring information from different speakers and called on the public to be proactive.

Dionisio Mondejar and Rene Mabilog of OCD led the orientation on Disaster Information Nationwide Awareness (DINA) that outlined the procedures for earthquake drills.

Meanwhile, Claret School of Maluso President, Fr. Julius Boado, CMF was grateful and expressed that the school will always be open for this type of activity, especially for the good and welfare of the community.

“I hope this will not be the first and the last as this is the desire of Claret community to collaborate and interact for the good of the municipality and the province,” he said.

Observers noted that students must imbibe in their consciousness the value of the drill in order to properly respond to disasters and calamities that may strike Maluso town in the future.

93 EWDs established in ZamPen high risk prone areas

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has established 93 units of early warning devices in the identified high risk prone areas in Zamboanga Peninsula region.

This was revealed by DOST 9 focal person for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management,Ms.Thelma San Diego during the forum at Top Plaza Hotel, conducted on  the second day of the Regional Science and Technology Week celebration.

San Diego said the installed EWDs include Automated Weather Station (AWS), Automated Rain Gauge (ARG),  and Water Level Monitoring System (WLMS).

An early warning device is designed to prevent loss of lives and lessen damage to properties in certainareas during occurrence of heavy rains that may result to flooding.

These instruments have the capability to send warning to the people residing in low-lying areas 6 hours before the arrival of the impending big flood that may hit them to prepare themselves for evacuation to elevated areas.

Of the installed EWDS, 29 of them are in the rivers of differentmunicipalities  in Zamboanga del Norte which were known to be high-risk flood-prone areas.

Some 24 other EWDs were installed in Zamboanga del Sur; 14 in Zamboanga Sibugay; 2 in Zamboanga  City and 4 in Isabela City, Basilan.

The forum, held in line with the 3-day National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) celebration(July 25-27)aims to provide the LGUs with new innovations in technology like early warning devices to enhance their  capabilities to respond during emergency situations.

Itwas participated in by more or less 200 local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers from the different local government units in region 9.

This year’s NSTW celebration carries the theme, “Juan Science, One Nation.”

DTI holds 1st Regional SSF Summit in Sibugay

By Alma L. Tingcang

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay - To convene all  partners, cooperators, and beneficiaries of the Shared Service Facilities (SSF) projects, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) hosted the 1^st Regional SSF Summit at Roderic’s Resort yesterday, July 26.

Gov. Wilter Y. Palma, ably represented by Board Member Eufemio Javier Jr. welcomed the participants to this beautiful town which was timed with its 67^thAraw ng Ipil celebration.

BM Javier expressed his gratefulness to DTI for holding the summit in Ipil and for the SSF projects poured into the province which have greatly benefitted Sibugaynons.

The summit’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Celebrating Success, Sustaining Gains” aptly defines the breakthrough in the implementation of the SSF projects in Region 9.

It was also a venue to present the best practices of the SSF beneficiaries which propelled the successful achievement of its objectives as well as to create a networking of business opportunities.

RD Sitti Amina M. Jain who introduced the keynote speaker, Assistant Secretary BlesilaA.Lantayona also acknowledged the presence of national government agencies, cooperators, beneficiaries, representatives from the LGUs and other participants.

“I am very happy that Region 9 is the 3^rd in the entire country to host the SSF summit. The first is Region 3, followed by Region 4A. This is also a very significant venue because this was once a conflict-ridden area. Now I have seen that it has become very, very progressive particularly the capital town which is Ipil,” AsecLantayona remarked.

She mentioned that during the first year of SSF implementation, it was very slow paced. Several problems were encountered and the need for convergence efforts of other national government agencies was immediate. Thus, the program called for partnership with the private sector, academe and industry associations for it to take-off smoothly.

To date, there are already 2015 SSFs in the country where DTI has allocated a budget of P1.018 billion.

Lantayona challenged the beneficiaries to come up with a winner for Best SSF Video and Best SSF Project in October, this year in time for the 2^nd National SSF Summit which will be held in Davao or Caraga.

Highlighting the summit was the awarding of the Top 3 Best SSF, among the 125 SSFs in the region. Based on the criteria set by DTI, bagging the first was KASAMMAKA of Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur – organic fertilizer processing; BABAMI of Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte – abaca fiber and products - second; and LAPMCO of Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay – abaca fiber and products came third.

DTI called on cooperators and beneficiaries to sustain the gains of the SSF to uplift the economic condition in the countryside.

President Duterte’s 1st SONA draws praises from ZamboSurians

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s first State of the Nation Address on Monday, July 25 drew praises from ZamboSurians.

Duterte delivered his SONA as the 16^th President of the Republic of the Philippines at the Plenary Hall of the Batasang Pambansa Complex,  Quezon City.

Melchor U. Coronel, station manager of RMN DXPR in his public affairs program “Straight to the Point’ said President Duterte’s first SONA was very unique because he did not focus on his script.

“It is my first time to see a president who delivered his SONA with adlibs and ignored the teleprompter several times. His remarks drew cheers from the audience,” said Coronel.

 “Ang speech sa presidente dulot sa kasing-kasing sa mga tawo. Atong lauman nga maangkon sa katawhang Pilipino ang maayong kaugmaon sulod sa iyang unom ka tuig nga pangatungdanan isip pangulo sa atong nasud,” Coronel said positively.

(The speech of the president penetrated the hearts of the people. We hope  that the Filipinos will have a good future during his six year term as leader of our country.)  

Immigration lawyer Atty. Alexander L. Acain Jr. of Molave town observed that President Duterte has a distinct style of speaking, saying that it was entirely different from those of his predecessors. “It was straight to the point. He was speaking directly to the people,” the young lawyer noted.

Acain believes that the President is very sincere in keeping his promise.

“It has been our long dream to have a President like him- a visionary leader,” he added.

  

Meanwhile, Richard Pernia, a Political Science professor of Mindanao State University, General Santos City and a resident of Tukuran town said the President bared his platforms of government which centered on peace and order, taxes, infrastructure, social services and development. 

But Pernia said these will not materialize without God’s guidance and active support of his cabinet officials as well as the Filipino people.

He also appealed to those who did not vote for President Duterte in the May 2016 elections to support his administration. 

“If you cannot be a part of the solution, please do not make yourself a part of the problem,” Pernia concluded.

PNVSCA, CHED launches Volunteerism Story Writing Contest

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – To engage the Filipino youth in sharing the contributions of volunteers in different communities across the country, the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) will conduct a Volunteerism Story Writing Contest aimed to promote volunteerism both as a way of life and cross-cutting tool for socio-economic development.

With the theme “Volunteerism for Sustainable Development,” the contest serves as a timely platform to highlight and promote volunteerism as a strategy in the achievement of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This is also in support to the Philippines’ commitment to the global development priorities.

The contest is open to Filipino college/university students nationwide who are currently enrolled in or who have completed the National Service Training Program (NSTP) at the time of submission of entry.

Each participant shall choose one SDG and shall write a feature article on an individual or group/organization whose volunteer work is aligned with the achievement of the chosen SDG. One winner will be selected from each region to help showcase the volunteering stories in different areas of the country.

“With the students’ participation in the NSTP and in other extension activities, they have been exposed to volunteerism at the local level. They can help showcase the diverse experiences and accomplishments of volunteers whose services are geared towards community development and empowerment,” PNVSCA Executive Director Joselito C. De Vera in a statement said.

Entries can be submitted to PNVSCA and will be accepted until 31 August 2016. Regional winners will be announced through the Agency’s website in November and will receive PhP 3,000 each.

Information on the contest mechanics and entry forms can be found and downloadedat www.pnvsca.gov.ph and  www.facebook.com/innovatecooperateinspire or at CHED’s website www.ched.gov.ph. Interested participants may also contact PNVSCA at info@pnvsca.gov.ph and (02) 227 7389.

DOH holds health advocacy orientation

by: Rhea Grace A. La Plana

Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay – The Department of Health (DOH) in coordination with the Sibugay Provincial Health Office (PHO) conducted on Friday, July 22, a training of trainers on Zika virus and other health programs at Ricomar Restaurant here.

“DOH is geared toward preventing and controlling infectious diseases from becoming public health problems. We are in all out effort to reduce emerging and re-emerging infectious health problems” Mr. Cristobert D. Bermudez, development management officer of the DOH said.

“The emerging infectious diseases are those newly identified or previously unknown infections whose incidence threatens to increase in the near future while the re-emerging infectious illnesses are infections secondary to the reappearance of a previously eliminated diseases or an unexpected increase in the number of previously known infectious diseases,” he explained.

Development Management Officer Erlita S. Taray also intensively discussed dengue, Zika virus and Chikungunya, saying, “it is very important to search and destroy potential breeding sites in order to prevent the spread of the Aedes mosquitoes that serve as the vector of the virus.”

Representing Provincial Health Officer Ulysses Chiong, Ms. Florna R. Agbayani, supervising administrative officer and chief of the technical division of the PHO expressed her gratitude to the support extended by the participants, as she emphasized that prevention and cure are the very core of responding appropriately to the emerging and re-emerging diseases.

Moreover, Ms. Angelica Panganiban, head of the DOH’s Health Emergency Management Staff also apprised the participants that a total of 220 dengue cases have been recorded in the province, one case on Chikungunya at Barangay Tipan in Naga town, and none for Zika virus.

DOH is urging everyone to be active in community programs and to give utmost importance to health, strengthen surveillance and preparedness for any health problem.

Pagadian promotes PWDs’ rights, privileges

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – Discrimination is a fact of life for many groups of persons with disabilities (PWDs), but to some, discrimination was no longer felt when the national government implemented Republic Act No. 9442, otherwise known as Magna Carta for Persons with Disability.

Social Welfare Officer Saramea Ubpon, Focal person for PWD said in a recent media forum conducted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) at Anastacia Pension House here that the city government had implemented pertinent provisions of the said law by granting the rights and privileges of PWDs.

Ubpon said the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) provided the PWDs with following programs and services: information dissemination of disability prevention advocacy, assistance to physical restoration, social and vocational preparation for employment services, issuance of PWD IDs, community based and integrated restoration program, medical intervention, among others. 

Ubpon added the city government has employed 21 PWDs - six are permanent while 15 are casual. “They are all employed in the different offices of the city hall,” she stressed.

Evelyn Bunsucan, a permanent employee of the city treasurer’s office expressed her thanks to the government for allowing her to work despite her disability. “With the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability, I was able to overcome certain obstacles for it has given me an equal opportunity for employment,” Bunsucan said in a local dialect.

Bunsucan started to work in 1982 and is now planning to retire in 2018 due to health reasons.

Elna Laguitao–Dopio, 43, a polio victim said she is grateful to the local government unit for implementing the provisions of the law, benefiting the PWDs in the area.

Dopio, a casual employee detailed at the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) was employed as clerk since 1983 up to present.

“Nalipay ko nga gihatagan ko sa kagamhanan ug kahigayonan nga makatrabaho bisan pa sa akong gihambin nga kabilinggan sa lawas,” Laguitao said.

(I am grateful that I was given an opportunity by the government to work despite my disability.)

Like many people with disabilities, Dopio possessed an indomitable spirit, and she refused to let her physical challenges get in the way of achieving his goals.

Dopio said it is her dream to be a permanent employee of the city government.

Meanwhile, Virginia Almirol, PESO head, said she was impressed with the work ethic of Elna.

“I am proud and impressed with the work ethic of Elna. She is an efficient and productive employee. She works with minimal supervision and she knows how to entertain clients,” Almirol assessed. 

Pres. Duterte to AFP: “I am fighting a war; you need to come in fast “

by Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY -  “I am fighting a war here, drugs  and terrorism. It will need your sacrifice and mine too. You’ll need to come in very fast,” President Duterte addresseda crowd of government troopers at the Western Mindanao Command Gymnasium during his visit here yesterday, July 21.

“We are stretch thin.Wala akong  pulis na ilalatag dyan, tapos ang shabu is rampaging.” This statement connotes how serious he is in eliminating illegal drug activities in the country that he is willing to bet his life on it.

“The problem on drugs  is beyond our reach. For all you know ang mga protector dyan eh nandito lang,” he said.

“You’ll have to love your country. Do it for the love of country, do not do it for me. I do not need it. Trabaho tayong lahat. Trabahante lang ako.” This he uttered with the advise not to develop loyalty to him but to the country.

“Ito lang masabi ko, do your duty, if you are ordered for an operation against shabu, at nagka sabit sabit kayo, huwag kayo matakot. I will be there,”with the assurance that he will not allow them to go to jail so long as the operation is mandated by law.

President Duterte called on concerned authorities to take solace from his statement: “In the fulfillment of duty or in the performance of your task, mandate,you will have my support- one hundred percent.”

“Lahat ng ini-execute ninyo, utos ko, akin yan, mine and mine alone. Basta yung trabaho natin. So huwag kayong matakot, I am there for you,”  he said, taking full and sole responsibility for his mandate to rid the country of drugs and terrorism.

“Basta inutusan kayo to do a civilian mandate, for example drugs.Go ahead, di na ako magtanong kung paano ninyo ginawa. Basta ako pagnagkasabit kayo sa trabaho mandated by law, you will have my protection,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, the President announced that his administation is in need of atleast 3000 policemen to meet the challenges of urban terrorism and highlighted on the more than 80,000 drug pushers and users all over the country who surrendered to authorities.This is a manifestation that his administration really means business when it comes to ridding the country of the drug menace.

CSWD marks 38thNDPR Weekin Dipolog

By Grace Montallana

DIPOLOG CITY – The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), in coordination with the Dipolog Association of Persons with Disability (PWD) and Children with Special Needs has laid down series of activities  to mark the celebration of the 38^th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week on July 17-23.

This year’s theme, “Karapatan ng may Kapansanan, Isakatuparan…. Now Na!” focuses on the realization of the fundamental freedom and rights of persons with disabilities as provided for in existing international mandates and national laws.

The celebration aims to stimulate public awareness on disability and encourage every citizen to take active responsibility in uplifting the economic and social condition of persons with disabilities in the country pursuant to Proclamation No. 361 (2000) as amended by Administrative Order No. 35 (2002).

Various activities highlight the government’s efforts towards disability prevention and leading to the effective integration of disabled persons.

NDPR steamers were hung in strategic areas of the city on July 15 while a mass was held on July 18 at the Holy Rosary Cathedral.

Meanwhile, a motorcade which started at Plaza Magsaysay passing through the major streets ofDipolog was held on July 19. It was then followed by a clean-up drive at Sta. Isabel bypass road participated in by the PWDs.

Other activities during the celebration included: medical and dental check-up, radio/TV guesting on July 20 and whole-day free massage on July 21 at Corazon Aquino Hospital.

On July 22, the PWD Convention which advocates the human rights and fundamental freedomof PWDs was held at Top Plaza Atrium.

The National Disability and Rehabilitation Week is celebrated yearly every third week of July.

PIA-9 tapped to train DAR-9 info officers on news, feature writing

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PIÑAN, Zamboanga del Norte – As the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-9 embarks on promoting its programs and services to the public, it sought the help of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 to train its regional and provincial information officers on basic news and feature writing.

Twenty participants from DAR-9 regional office and provincial offices of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay as well as those from Land Tenure Improvement Division, Project Beneficiaries Division and Legal and Adjudication Board turned up to participate in a three-day writing workshop held at Manuel’s Place in this town starting July 20-22.

In his message during the opening program, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Mohammad Dassan J. Adju of DAR-Zamboanga del Norte emphasized the importance of accurate and timely dissemination of information to the public to promote the agency’s programs and services.

Adju disclosed that he is also actively involved in disseminating bits of information about the different programs pursued by his office, as he is a regular guest of the “Kapihan sa Dipolog” radio program, which is aired over dxDR every Sunday morning.

On the other hand, Ma. Socorro Reambonanza, DAR-9 regional information officer-designate, told the PIA that after the implementation of the government’s rationalization plan, DAR-9 has no more information officer items.

“All our information officers now are all designated and the information work is only an addition to their regular workload, hence, this training,” she explained.

Aside from news and feature writing, the participants were also taught the proper ways of conducting an interview. 

Better lives for members of AFP, Du30 assures

By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Members of the Armed Forces of the country were inspired by President Rody Duterte when he assured them of an improvedquality of life in his regime.

During his visit here on Thursday, the President spoke tidbit of his plans not only to help boost the morale of the country’s uniformed men but to improve the lives of their families as well, when it comes to imponderable situations.

“I will look for money , at kayo, pag nagka problema,- asawa, kapatid na may cancer, huwag na kayo pumasok dyan sa kung ano-ano para magka utang (If you’ll have problems like your wives, sibling having cancer, do not go to loan sharks), just go to your commanding officer and he will call me, and  I will find ways to  help you.” These strongly worded and sincere lines touched the hearts of security forces and made them almost teary.

“Pagka medyo mabigat alam nyo na marami yan, patay, tuition, whatever, cancer, ipaalammolangsa akin and I will help you,” he went on to say, a striking irony coming from a perceived “Berdugo” (executioner, hangman) of Mindanao-turned-President of the country.President Duterte is now enjoying 91% confidence level of the Filipino people as per latest survey.

The Preseident also spoke of his plans to sell the presidential yatch (BRP-Pag-asa) and use the proceeds to rehabilittate V. Luna General Hospital also known as the AFP General Hospital.

“Kaya nga sana noon ipagbilikoyungPag-asa to rebuild yungV.Luna, pero sabi nila, no takers kasiluma, mahina,” the president said. (that’s why, before, I thought of selling the Pag-asa to rebuild V.Luna, but they say there are no takers because it’s old and weak)

He enumerated his plans for what he called  “of no use”  Pag-Asa yatch saying  “I will either convert it into a hospital, tingnan ko lang how much I would spend, gawain ko yang hospital ninyo,” and said he would station it “to wherever the fighting is.”

“Sirain ko lang yung loob, lagyan ko ng operating rooms. Ganyan ang gawain ko, walang silbi yang barko na yan eh, so pakinabangannalngnatin.But If someone is willing to buy it, ang kita nyan, maasahan ninyo, I will rebuild V.Luna. I will complete it.”

President Duterte also plans to construct additional building inside the AFP Medical Center and furnish it with state of the art medical equipment.

 “You’ll have the comparatively best medical treatment. It will have, everything! CT scan,kungano man yang imaging na yan. I wil spend money and we will improve the hospital, whatever is immediate and urgent that needs to be there,” he concluded.

DTI-ZN presents Bagwis Seal of Excellence Award to six establishments

By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)- Zamboanga del Norte has presented the Bagwis Seal of Excellence Award to six establishments in the province during the Provincial Micro Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (MSME) Conference on July 21, 2016 at the 2^nd Floor, Commercial Complex 1, Dipolog Boulevard.

The Bagwis Award is given to outstanding business establishments that uphold the rights of consumers and foster the highest level of ethical business practices through “self-regulatory mechanisms” so as to achieve a fair and honest marketplace.

The six awardees were Prince Hypermart, J&C Lucky 99 Store, Home Mart Enterprises, Solidmark, Inc., Des Appliance Plaza, Inc. and Octagon Computer Superstore.

They were acknowledged for operating a clean and orderly workplace, excellent customer relations, having good employee-employer relationshipand for their strict adherence to fair trade laws.

Accordingly, with the seal being displayed inside the stores or shops, consumers are guided in choosing the establishments that offer quality products and efficient services at reasonable prices and protected from unlawful trade practices.

Meanwhile, during the said conference, Siayan Mayor Flora L. Villarosa emphasized that in order to reach the peak of success, one must work hard for it.

Moreover, she stressed that the employees contributed a lot to the success of the business. “I told my employees that before going to office, they should at least say ‘good morning’ to themselves and smile to everyone in order to start the day right,” she said.

There were more than 500 participants during the conference.Among them were representatives from local government units, business establishments, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), government agencies, members of the academe and media.

President Duterte assures better days ahead for Basilan

by Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – President Rodrigo R. Duterte assured the people of Basilan that a better future is in store under his administration.

“Ayoko ng away, gusto ko mag-usap lang (I don’t like quarrel, let’s talk) and to see a very prosperous Basilan,” the President said speaking before men and women of the Armed Forces, Philippine National Police, and other sectors present during his visit at the 104th Infantry Brigade base in Barangay Tabiawan, this city.

Amidst the ongoing military operations versus the Abu Sayyaf in the hinterlands of Tipo-Tipo, south of Basilan, the President called on the people not to nurture and even entertain hatred.

Hatred, he said fueled some people to sow terror and commit crimes, like what the Abu Sayyafs are doing.

“Ako ay nakiki-usap sa lahat (I am appealing to everyone), I am pleading for peace pati sa mga Abu Sayyaf (even to the Abu Sayyaf). You have committed so many crimes, killing people unnecessarily,” he said, adding that government troops will continue to be deployed in Basilan because of kidnapping and killing.

While at the brigade, the President met with different sectors on three occasions. Upon disembarkation from the Presidential chopper, he immediately met with officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police in a closed-door meeting. After about an hour, the President met with the people, soldiers, and the police in a courtyard where he delivered a message. He sometimes broke protocol and mingled with the crowd who were eager to grab a photo with the President.

After the photo opportunity of some groups with the President, the ceremonial distribution of food packs was conducted to some 150 persons displaced by the ongoing conflict in Tipo-Tipo and nearby towns. The President personally handed the food packs, hugging some one of them as they received the goods.

In one of his conversations with IDPs, the President assured them of government’s help to rebuild their homes as soon as the military operation is concluded.

President Duterte also commended the security forces of the government for a job well done in quelling a rebellion. “But you must remember that they’re our brothers and sisters. Do not nurture hate. Trabaho lang ‘yan,” reminded the commander-in-chief.

“Sa mga kapatid kong Moro, kasi alam ko na napabayaan kayo. Alam ko ‘yan. At alam ko na-oppress kayo. (To our Moro siblings, I know you were neglected. I know that. And I know that you were oppressed). That is why we’re having these talks, baka magkaroon tayo ng federalism, ‘yan ang hinihingi ng mga leader ninyo (We might consider federalism, that is what your leaders are asking),” he said.

However, the President stressed that there is a law and that government has to maintain the Republic, “because to secede… hindi pwede ‘yan,” the President remarked when he brought up the topic of federalism.

Lastly, he met with the local chief executives (LCEs) in a closed-door meeting. An official revealed that the President’s meeting with LCEs centered on the national government’s assurance that more help in terms of programs and projects will be poured in Basilan.

NSDD 2016 benefited more than 500,000 school children in Region 9

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - A total of 512,130 or 81.28 of school children in Region 9 have benefited from the National School Deworming Day conducted by the Department of Health (DOH) on January 27 this year.

This was disclosed by Ms. Maria Raiza C. Anino of DOH-9 during the media forum held at Mibang Hotel, this city recently.

According to Anino, 512,130 of the targeted 630,074 Kinder to Grade 6 school children in public schools in the Zamboanga Peninsula were given “anti-bulate” medication during its implementation of the program this year.

Of this number, 133,133 were from Zamboanga del Sur;Pagadian City-26,647;  Zamboanga Sibugay-100,410; Zamboanga City-69,058; Isabela City-15,268; Zamboanga del Norte-140,201; Dapitan City-12,286 and Dipolog City -18,127.

The month-long deworming activity, done every January and July aims to improve  the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) to 85 percent coverage of target population and decrease soil transmitted helminthiasis cases which causes weakness, decreased appetite, decreased  IQ and  anemia.

Anino admitted that the observance of the Holy Month of Ramadhan which lasted until the early part of July somewhat affected the implementation of the program, however, according to her, she noted positive development after the celebration.

She likewise cautioned the parents not to over-react on the possible effect of the medicine to the child, as it is just normal.

Anino reminded all concerned to ensure that the deworming is only administered to a child with full stomach. She assured that Albendazole is safe and not expired as alleged. It has been recommended by the World Health Organization due to its widest range of curative activity and proven effective against all kinds of worms. It is safe and easy to administer by a non-health worker.

DOH-9, in its 2015 NSDD Accomplishment Report stated that only 460,418 children or 65.92% of its 698,429 target were treated. Apart from being far from its target, it has also registered an adverse effect report of 6,235 cases.

Anino attributed the high number of adverse effects recorded in Zamboanga del Nortedue to lack of information campaign on the conduct of the deworming activity- that it should only be given to a child with full stomach and the abdominal pain is just but a normal reaction.

CSWD, LCWDP spearhead observance of NDPR Week

By Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Local Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (LCWDP) spearheaded the celebration of the 38^th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week with this year’s theme, “Karapatan ng may Kapansanan, Isakatuparan…Now Na!”

Brixxio Daniel, chairman of the Local Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons said PWDs play an important role in promoting their own welfare and creating awareness of their potential in the community. They should be conscious of their own rights and learn to be self-reliant and independent.

“Some PWDs are gifted and talented people and some of them are already successful. They need to be recognized by the government for their achievements and contributions to our country,” Daniel stressed.

Bienvenido Culve, private secretary of Mayor Romeo P. Pulmones said PWDs face discrimination and barriers that restrict them from participating in society on an equal basis.

“The city government thru Mayor Romeo P. Pulmones gives full support to the improvement of the total well-being of PWDs and their integration into mainstream society. They have the same rights as other people,” Culve said quoting the message of the good mayor.

Accordingly, the chief executive ensures that the attainment of a barrier-free environment will be enjoyed by the PWDs by providing them access in public and private buildings, establishments and public utilities.

Other rights, such as the “right to organize” was also granted by the city government where PWDs may form organizations or associations that promote their welfare and advance their interests, as well as provide equal and suitable employment opportunities in the city government.

Social Worker Officer Saramea Ubpon, PWD focal person said about 21 PWDs are  gainfully employed by the city government.

The whole day activity was participated in by Pagadian City Federation of Disabled Persons (PACIFEDEP) officers and members. It turned out to be a very memorable event where they had the opportunity to mingle and associate with one another through games and entertainment.