By: Emmanuel D. Taghoy
IMELDA, Zamboanga Sibugay – To capacitate soldier-trainers of the 44th Infantry Battalion in their conduct of Youth Leadership Summits, PIA-9 team conducted today a lecture on communicative skills development and handling group discussion at Imelda town.
“Communicating is connecting to your audience,” said Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 in a statement.
According to Dir. Edaga, it is important for every speaker to identify his audience before any activity to make the necessary preparations, as it is vital in effective communication development.
Director Edaga discussed to the 11 soldier-participants attending the training the communication process which is composed of three basic components: sender, message, and receiver.
“There is more to the three components. It is a cycle that also includes feedback from the receiver and back to the sender, and so on.”
She also explained public speaking as a skill that naturally flows out of listening, that is, also the ability to distinguish sounds in an alphabet.
“Speaking is a natural, fundamental human skill for expression and exposition,” Dir. Edaga said.
She also stressed the three PIA core values, which are: timeliness, relevance, and accuracy as an effective tool of communication.
Ms. Alma L. Tingcang, information center manager of PIA-Sibugay, discussed handling group discussion and presented the video documentary produced by PIA-ZAMBASULTA on climate change.
To apply what they have learned during the discussion, the participants were grouped into two and were asked to answer questions relevant to the climate change video presentation and presented the group’s output at the end of the training.
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
DOE to conduct forum on downstream oil industry in Zambo Sur
By: Claro A. Lanipa
PAGADIAN CITY – The Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) of the Department of Energy (DOE) in collaboration with Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 will conduct a multi-sectoral advocacy on downstream oil industry in Zamboanga del Sur on Sept. 18, 2014 at Alindahaw Hotel this city.
PIA-9 Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga said the activity is geared toward creating and strengthening a critical mass that would serve as conduit to the general public in the efforts to generate awareness on downstream oil industry and its benefits.
It may be recalled that the country’s downstream oil industry had been deregulated since 1998 and is currently dominated by two major oil refining and marketing companies – Petron and Pilipinas Shell.
A third oil refiner and marketer, Caltex Philippines Inc. converted its 86,500 bbl/d refinery into an import terminal in 2003 and now operates as a plain marketing and distributing company under the name “Chevron,” but remains its Caltex brand.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC), a state-owned company, and Saudi Aramco jointly own Petron; each with a 40 percent stake while the public holds the remaining 20 percent share.
Petron operates a 180,000 bbl/d refinery and over 1,200 gasoline stations nationwide; Pilipinas Shell has a 110,000 bbl/d refinery and about 800 gasoline stations; and Caltex/Chevron has 2 import terminals, and around 850 retail gas stations nationwide.
Participants to the activity are national line agencies, local government units (Mayors, Information officers, Business Permit Issuing Officers, Licensing Officers and Treasures, Bureau of Fire and Protection (BFP), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), media, retailers and owners of gasoline stations.
The same activity will also be conducted in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte on Sept. 16, 2014.
PAGADIAN CITY – The Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) of the Department of Energy (DOE) in collaboration with Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9 will conduct a multi-sectoral advocacy on downstream oil industry in Zamboanga del Sur on Sept. 18, 2014 at Alindahaw Hotel this city.
PIA-9 Regional Director Noemi B. Edaga said the activity is geared toward creating and strengthening a critical mass that would serve as conduit to the general public in the efforts to generate awareness on downstream oil industry and its benefits.
It may be recalled that the country’s downstream oil industry had been deregulated since 1998 and is currently dominated by two major oil refining and marketing companies – Petron and Pilipinas Shell.
A third oil refiner and marketer, Caltex Philippines Inc. converted its 86,500 bbl/d refinery into an import terminal in 2003 and now operates as a plain marketing and distributing company under the name “Chevron,” but remains its Caltex brand.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC), a state-owned company, and Saudi Aramco jointly own Petron; each with a 40 percent stake while the public holds the remaining 20 percent share.
Petron operates a 180,000 bbl/d refinery and over 1,200 gasoline stations nationwide; Pilipinas Shell has a 110,000 bbl/d refinery and about 800 gasoline stations; and Caltex/Chevron has 2 import terminals, and around 850 retail gas stations nationwide.
Participants to the activity are national line agencies, local government units (Mayors, Information officers, Business Permit Issuing Officers, Licensing Officers and Treasures, Bureau of Fire and Protection (BFP), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), media, retailers and owners of gasoline stations.
The same activity will also be conducted in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte on Sept. 16, 2014.
Thursday, September 11, 2014
PIA, DENR to Tukuranstudes: Be active partners in climate change advocacy
Gideon C. Corgue
TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur – Students of Tukuran Technical-Vocational High School (TTVHS) have been encouraged by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9 and Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9to help solve climate change problems.
In a forum on climate change adaptationjointly conducted here on Tuesday by the DENR and PIA, Regional Public Affairs Officer RoserviricoA. Tan challenged the students to do their share in helping solve climate change issuessaying that“its adverse impacts are already felt in our country.”
“We reach out to you students because it is you who would inherit this earth that is still livable with clean and healthy environment and life-giving natural resources,” Tan pointed out.
Tan said the climate change advocacy campaign pursued by theDENR and PIA is a project of the national government aimed at raising the level of awareness of the public on climate change mitigation and adaptation to lessen its adverse impact onthe humans.
Tan said“the campaign is truly a gargantuan task to perform by the agencies. That is why we need help from other sectors of society.”
“We are trying to reach out to the communities - especially the academe - to be our partners in helping us protect the environment,” Tan said, as he recognized the youth’s vital role in our society.
Tan explained the major effects of climate change particularly the extinction of living and non-living things. “The climate change has severely affected our environment,” Tan said.
Tan encouraged the students to support and the National Greening Program (NGP) by planting trees.
He also called on the students to support the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act otherwise known as Republic Act 9003.
Meanwhile, Zamboanga del Sur Information Center Manager Claro A. Lanipa emphasized that the said forum was conducted to address public apathy to climate change in order to engender active cooperation and support from all sectors.
Lanipa said this forum here was the second advocacy activity conducted by the DENR and PIA to public secondary schools in Zamboanga Peninsula. The first was held in Bayog National High School, Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur on Aug. 22, 2014.
TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur – Students of Tukuran Technical-Vocational High School (TTVHS) have been encouraged by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9 and Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9to help solve climate change problems.
In a forum on climate change adaptationjointly conducted here on Tuesday by the DENR and PIA, Regional Public Affairs Officer RoserviricoA. Tan challenged the students to do their share in helping solve climate change issuessaying that“its adverse impacts are already felt in our country.”
“We reach out to you students because it is you who would inherit this earth that is still livable with clean and healthy environment and life-giving natural resources,” Tan pointed out.
Tan said the climate change advocacy campaign pursued by theDENR and PIA is a project of the national government aimed at raising the level of awareness of the public on climate change mitigation and adaptation to lessen its adverse impact onthe humans.
Tan said“the campaign is truly a gargantuan task to perform by the agencies. That is why we need help from other sectors of society.”
“We are trying to reach out to the communities - especially the academe - to be our partners in helping us protect the environment,” Tan said, as he recognized the youth’s vital role in our society.
Tan explained the major effects of climate change particularly the extinction of living and non-living things. “The climate change has severely affected our environment,” Tan said.
Tan encouraged the students to support and the National Greening Program (NGP) by planting trees.
He also called on the students to support the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act otherwise known as Republic Act 9003.
Meanwhile, Zamboanga del Sur Information Center Manager Claro A. Lanipa emphasized that the said forum was conducted to address public apathy to climate change in order to engender active cooperation and support from all sectors.
Lanipa said this forum here was the second advocacy activity conducted by the DENR and PIA to public secondary schools in Zamboanga Peninsula. The first was held in Bayog National High School, Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur on Aug. 22, 2014.
DENR-9 readies for Sept. 26 “TreeVolution”
By Franklin P. Gumapon
PAGADIAN CITY – To beat India’s record as having planted 1,945,535 trees for an hour in 408 locations with 340,200 participants, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9 is joining other regions in Mindanao to plant 4.6 million trees in 9,200 hectares across the island on Sept. 26, 2014 at 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Dubbed “TreeVolution: Greening MindaNow,” the activity aims to achieve the 2014 target of the National Greening Program (NGP) for Mindanao by breaking India’s record of having planted the most number of treesin different locations simultaneously.
NGP is targeting 690,815 hectares to be planted with trees in Mindanao by 2016.
“For Zamboanga Peninsula, DENR-9 aims to cover 1,000 hectares to be planted with 700,000 seedlings in various NGP sites,” Regional Director Arleigh Adorable said.
Adorable also disclosed that some 35,000 participants/volunteers would be mobilized during the said activity involving 700 validators and independent witnesses from the academe and religious sector.
More, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Department of Agriculture (DA) and the local government units (LGUs) have also signified to join the activity by planting 167,500 seedlings in 335 hectares, bringing a total of 867,500 seedlings to be planted within the region during the “TreeVolution” activity.
Presently, India holds the title in the Guinness World Records as having the most number of trees planted in various locations simultaneously.
PAGADIAN CITY – To beat India’s record as having planted 1,945,535 trees for an hour in 408 locations with 340,200 participants, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9 is joining other regions in Mindanao to plant 4.6 million trees in 9,200 hectares across the island on Sept. 26, 2014 at 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Dubbed “TreeVolution: Greening MindaNow,” the activity aims to achieve the 2014 target of the National Greening Program (NGP) for Mindanao by breaking India’s record of having planted the most number of treesin different locations simultaneously.
NGP is targeting 690,815 hectares to be planted with trees in Mindanao by 2016.
“For Zamboanga Peninsula, DENR-9 aims to cover 1,000 hectares to be planted with 700,000 seedlings in various NGP sites,” Regional Director Arleigh Adorable said.
Adorable also disclosed that some 35,000 participants/volunteers would be mobilized during the said activity involving 700 validators and independent witnesses from the academe and religious sector.
More, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Department of Agriculture (DA) and the local government units (LGUs) have also signified to join the activity by planting 167,500 seedlings in 335 hectares, bringing a total of 867,500 seedlings to be planted within the region during the “TreeVolution” activity.
Presently, India holds the title in the Guinness World Records as having the most number of trees planted in various locations simultaneously.
Gen. Trinidad: AFP will remain, defend Zambo amidst anxieties
By Dominic I. Sanchez
ZAMBOANGA CITY – A top military brass reassured the Zamboanguenos on the night of the Zamboanga siege anniversary (September 9), that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will remain and defend the city amidst anxieties of a possible attack a year after.
Lt. Gen. Felicito Virgilio Trinidad, Jr., who represented AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gregorio Catapang quoted, “rest assured that your AFP will continue to be here in Zamboanga and in the adjacent areas to protect the people.”
Gen. Trinidad, according to Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar personally manned the defense strategy during the siege.
“Este noche, ta rindi quita gracias con el Armed Forces que ya dale servicio na maga residente,” (We express our gratitude to the Armed Forces who served and protected the residents) said Mayor Climaco-Salazar.
On Tuesday, the night of the Zamboanga siege anniversary, government officials and employees, police, military, academe, religious sector, and local residents gathered around City Hall and Plaza Rizal for a solemn candle-lighting ceremony dubbed “Luz de Ezperanza” (Light of Hope). Residents paid tribute to those who have fallen in defense of the city, including the young officers and men of the Armed Forces.
“We honor both the fallen and living heroes that have stood by in defense of our city,” said Mayor Climaco-Salazar.
Prior to September 9 this year, numerous scare text messages were circulating, allegedly that of a looming attack in Zamboanga City. Residents have expressed their anxiety and concern.
“Sobra saltao kame si ta recivi maga ansina clase de text. Hinde na gayod quita puede ase de nohay lang cay ya socede ya se del otro año,” (We panic whenever we receive these messages. We can’t remain apathetic towards them since we have already experienced the siege last year) said one concerned resident.
The mayor has continuously appealed to residents to be “calm but vigilant always,” and to report and validate these messages with the authorities.
ZAMBOANGA CITY – A top military brass reassured the Zamboanguenos on the night of the Zamboanga siege anniversary (September 9), that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will remain and defend the city amidst anxieties of a possible attack a year after.
Lt. Gen. Felicito Virgilio Trinidad, Jr., who represented AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gregorio Catapang quoted, “rest assured that your AFP will continue to be here in Zamboanga and in the adjacent areas to protect the people.”
Gen. Trinidad, according to Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar personally manned the defense strategy during the siege.
“Este noche, ta rindi quita gracias con el Armed Forces que ya dale servicio na maga residente,” (We express our gratitude to the Armed Forces who served and protected the residents) said Mayor Climaco-Salazar.
On Tuesday, the night of the Zamboanga siege anniversary, government officials and employees, police, military, academe, religious sector, and local residents gathered around City Hall and Plaza Rizal for a solemn candle-lighting ceremony dubbed “Luz de Ezperanza” (Light of Hope). Residents paid tribute to those who have fallen in defense of the city, including the young officers and men of the Armed Forces.
“We honor both the fallen and living heroes that have stood by in defense of our city,” said Mayor Climaco-Salazar.
Prior to September 9 this year, numerous scare text messages were circulating, allegedly that of a looming attack in Zamboanga City. Residents have expressed their anxiety and concern.
“Sobra saltao kame si ta recivi maga ansina clase de text. Hinde na gayod quita puede ase de nohay lang cay ya socede ya se del otro año,” (We panic whenever we receive these messages. We can’t remain apathetic towards them since we have already experienced the siege last year) said one concerned resident.
The mayor has continuously appealed to residents to be “calm but vigilant always,” and to report and validate these messages with the authorities.
TreeVolution targets to plant 4.6 million trees to beat India’s world record
By Alma L. Tingcang
IPIL, Zamboanga Sibuga – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources will be at the forefront of “TreeVolution: Greening MindaNOW,” which aims to break the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the Most Trees Planted Simultaneously in Multiple locations.
The present GWR is held by India which planted 1,945,535 trees for one hour in 408 locations across the country with 340,200 planters.
TreeVolution is a giant leap of faith seeking to plant 4.6 million trees in 6 regions throughout Mindanao on September 26, 2014 from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM, with 244,444 participants in an area of 9,200 hectares.
Dionesio B. Rago, PENRO-Forestry Specialist said DENR-Sibugay has identified 4 planting sites: Barangay Palomok, Titay – 40 has; Barangay Baluran, Tungawan – 12 hectares; Barangay Sta. Barbara, Imelda – 30 hectares and Barangay Guiwan, Payao – 17 hectares.
“For the province of Zamboanga Sibugay, we have targeted 200 hectares to be planted with rubber for watershed areas and “bakawan” for mangrove areas,” Rago quoted.
He said among the planters who have registered are LGUs, academe, peoples’ organizations and other concerned groups and individuals who care about the environment.
A total of 500 seedlings including cacao, coffee, timber, mangroves and fruit trees will be planted for every hectare, which would also achieve the 2014 National Greening Program (NGP) target of Mindanao.
Planters who are 18 years old and above may participate in this greatest environmental endeavor that could bring the Philippines into the Guinness World Records, the ultimate authority and official reference for world records of achievements since 1995.
Participants shall register at the TreeVolution Desk in all DENR Regional offices/PENRO/CENR offices or at TreeVolution: Greening MindaNOW Facebook page.
DENR also welcomes sponsors who would like to be part of this praiseworthy endeavor by donating food, water, coffee, wristbands, transportation and mobility support, planting tools, mobility support, TreeVolution giveaways like shirts, caps, handtowels, among others.
IPIL, Zamboanga Sibuga – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources will be at the forefront of “TreeVolution: Greening MindaNOW,” which aims to break the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the Most Trees Planted Simultaneously in Multiple locations.
The present GWR is held by India which planted 1,945,535 trees for one hour in 408 locations across the country with 340,200 planters.
TreeVolution is a giant leap of faith seeking to plant 4.6 million trees in 6 regions throughout Mindanao on September 26, 2014 from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM, with 244,444 participants in an area of 9,200 hectares.
Dionesio B. Rago, PENRO-Forestry Specialist said DENR-Sibugay has identified 4 planting sites: Barangay Palomok, Titay – 40 has; Barangay Baluran, Tungawan – 12 hectares; Barangay Sta. Barbara, Imelda – 30 hectares and Barangay Guiwan, Payao – 17 hectares.
“For the province of Zamboanga Sibugay, we have targeted 200 hectares to be planted with rubber for watershed areas and “bakawan” for mangrove areas,” Rago quoted.
He said among the planters who have registered are LGUs, academe, peoples’ organizations and other concerned groups and individuals who care about the environment.
A total of 500 seedlings including cacao, coffee, timber, mangroves and fruit trees will be planted for every hectare, which would also achieve the 2014 National Greening Program (NGP) target of Mindanao.
Planters who are 18 years old and above may participate in this greatest environmental endeavor that could bring the Philippines into the Guinness World Records, the ultimate authority and official reference for world records of achievements since 1995.
Participants shall register at the TreeVolution Desk in all DENR Regional offices/PENRO/CENR offices or at TreeVolution: Greening MindaNOW Facebook page.
DENR also welcomes sponsors who would like to be part of this praiseworthy endeavor by donating food, water, coffee, wristbands, transportation and mobility support, planting tools, mobility support, TreeVolution giveaways like shirts, caps, handtowels, among others.
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Turtle watching at Turtle Islands
By Franklin p. Gumapon
TURTLE ISLANDS, Tawi-Tawi – Joining a group of personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9 brought us to this nesting ground of sea turtles at the southern tip of Philippine Archipelago last Sept. 5-10.
Our journey started with a short briefing at the La Viña Hotel in Zamboanga City to apprise us of the specific itinerary to Bongao, the capital of Tawi-Tawi Province, and to this municipality, which is composed of six islands, namely, Taganak, Baguan, Great Bakkungan, Langaan, Lihiman and Boan.
From that briefing we learned that Baguan Island is a strict protection zone where no one is allowed to establish his abode; it is the place where the most number of turtles are nesting.
Mr. Cidur Julsadjiri of DENR-9’s Protected Area and Wildlife Division (PAWD), who presided over the meeting, said a navy boat would take the group from Bongao to the Turtle Islands and back.
Aboard a navy boat
We arrived at Sanga-Sanga Airport at 7:15 a.m. of Sept. 5, fetched by an easy ride to Bongao Port where the navy boat, Philippine Ship 19 (BRP-Miguel Malvar) led by Commanding Officer Jeff S. Nadogo, was waiting. The boat left Bongao Port at 1p.m. to start a 16-hour voyage to Taganak Island where the seat of government of the Turtle Islands municipality is based.
The boat sailed afloat the rough seas, negotiating the giant waves. In the middle of the sea, at around 1:20 a.m. of Sept. 6, a boisterous wind suddenly came, waking up all those lying on the boat’s steel floor to warn of a coming rain. A few minutes later, raindrops started falling ensued by a downpour. My colleagues and I scampered to the boat’s mess hall, carrying our bags, laptops and cameras to avoid getting soaked in the rain.
At around 7a.m. of Sept. 6 we finally reached Taganak Island and Mayor Mibaral M. Tang met us at the Municipal Guest House, which is situated along the beach where the turtles lay their eggs each night.
Protected area
Taganak Island is one of the protected areas covered under Presidential Proclamation 171 issued by former President Joseph Estrada on Aug. 26, 1999. It allows scientific research and monitoring in the area but prohibits turtle egg collection, destructive fishing methods, killing and/or gathering of protected wildlife, and illegal or unregulated commercial fishing.
Protected Area Superintendent Minda J. Barullan told this writer that the strict protection zone covers 242,697 hectares with a land portion of 318 hectares.
Barullan said the data on nesting incidence in the protected area showed that 7,465 turtles nested in 2008, 10,231 in 2009, 14,035 in 2010, 20,274 in 2011, 21,703 in 2012, and 17,290 in 2013. “The number of turtles nesting in 2013 went down due to poaching and illegal fishing,” she reported.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia Mydas) and Hawskbill Turtle (Eretemochelys Imbricata) are the two kinds of sea turtles endemic in the area, said Kester Yu, executive director of the Turtle Conservation Society of the Philippines (TCSP), a non-government organization doing research in Turtle Islands. Yu and some researchers of the Philippine Center for Terrestrial and aquatic Research (PCTAR) have joined the voyage.
Yu also disclosed that there are seven species of sea turtles all over the world; five are seen in the Philippines and two of these are found in Turtle Islands.
Though tired and weary from a long trip, we endeavored to stay awake from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. to watch female turtles dragging with their flippers up from the seas to the shorelines to nest. On that night we saw three female turtles lay eggs under Agoho and Talisay trees, just a few meters from where we were billeted.
Baguan Island
In the afternoon of the following day, Sept. 7, we proceeded to Baguan Island, an hour ride away from Taganak Island. When we reached there, we could not help but fall in love with the island’s beauty. Pristine beaches and crystal clear water welcomed us, as our eyes got awestruck by the sight.
There we have validated the report that Baguan Island is, indeed, home to most number of turtles. On that night alone, we had witnessed more than 20 female turtles nested on the beach fronting the DENR’s building. According to a DENR staff assigned in the island, an average of 80 female turtles come to lay eggs here every night.
However, rats and rodents are a new threat to this nesting ground, as they are eating the turtle eggs. To curb the problem, the DENR personnel tried to poison the rats.
Climate change
Another threat that poses danger to the turtle islands is climate change. Mayor Tang told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that the seawaters have already eroded the shorelines of Taganak Island. He showed us several Agoho trees uprooted by seawaters – a clear indication that the seawater rise is now felt and observed in the area. From its original land area of 135 hectares, the island has been reduced to 116 hectares in recent years.
Dr. Filemon Romero, an expert in oceanography, said, “there is really recession of seawaters inward,” which means that the sand and soil along the shorelines get eroded due to seawater rise.
If this condition goes unabated, where do we find the turtle islands in the years to come?
TURTLE ISLANDS, Tawi-Tawi – Joining a group of personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9 brought us to this nesting ground of sea turtles at the southern tip of Philippine Archipelago last Sept. 5-10.
Our journey started with a short briefing at the La Viña Hotel in Zamboanga City to apprise us of the specific itinerary to Bongao, the capital of Tawi-Tawi Province, and to this municipality, which is composed of six islands, namely, Taganak, Baguan, Great Bakkungan, Langaan, Lihiman and Boan.
From that briefing we learned that Baguan Island is a strict protection zone where no one is allowed to establish his abode; it is the place where the most number of turtles are nesting.
Mr. Cidur Julsadjiri of DENR-9’s Protected Area and Wildlife Division (PAWD), who presided over the meeting, said a navy boat would take the group from Bongao to the Turtle Islands and back.
Aboard a navy boat
We arrived at Sanga-Sanga Airport at 7:15 a.m. of Sept. 5, fetched by an easy ride to Bongao Port where the navy boat, Philippine Ship 19 (BRP-Miguel Malvar) led by Commanding Officer Jeff S. Nadogo, was waiting. The boat left Bongao Port at 1p.m. to start a 16-hour voyage to Taganak Island where the seat of government of the Turtle Islands municipality is based.
The boat sailed afloat the rough seas, negotiating the giant waves. In the middle of the sea, at around 1:20 a.m. of Sept. 6, a boisterous wind suddenly came, waking up all those lying on the boat’s steel floor to warn of a coming rain. A few minutes later, raindrops started falling ensued by a downpour. My colleagues and I scampered to the boat’s mess hall, carrying our bags, laptops and cameras to avoid getting soaked in the rain.
At around 7a.m. of Sept. 6 we finally reached Taganak Island and Mayor Mibaral M. Tang met us at the Municipal Guest House, which is situated along the beach where the turtles lay their eggs each night.
Protected area
Taganak Island is one of the protected areas covered under Presidential Proclamation 171 issued by former President Joseph Estrada on Aug. 26, 1999. It allows scientific research and monitoring in the area but prohibits turtle egg collection, destructive fishing methods, killing and/or gathering of protected wildlife, and illegal or unregulated commercial fishing.
Protected Area Superintendent Minda J. Barullan told this writer that the strict protection zone covers 242,697 hectares with a land portion of 318 hectares.
Barullan said the data on nesting incidence in the protected area showed that 7,465 turtles nested in 2008, 10,231 in 2009, 14,035 in 2010, 20,274 in 2011, 21,703 in 2012, and 17,290 in 2013. “The number of turtles nesting in 2013 went down due to poaching and illegal fishing,” she reported.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia Mydas) and Hawskbill Turtle (Eretemochelys Imbricata) are the two kinds of sea turtles endemic in the area, said Kester Yu, executive director of the Turtle Conservation Society of the Philippines (TCSP), a non-government organization doing research in Turtle Islands. Yu and some researchers of the Philippine Center for Terrestrial and aquatic Research (PCTAR) have joined the voyage.
Yu also disclosed that there are seven species of sea turtles all over the world; five are seen in the Philippines and two of these are found in Turtle Islands.
Though tired and weary from a long trip, we endeavored to stay awake from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. to watch female turtles dragging with their flippers up from the seas to the shorelines to nest. On that night we saw three female turtles lay eggs under Agoho and Talisay trees, just a few meters from where we were billeted.
Baguan Island
In the afternoon of the following day, Sept. 7, we proceeded to Baguan Island, an hour ride away from Taganak Island. When we reached there, we could not help but fall in love with the island’s beauty. Pristine beaches and crystal clear water welcomed us, as our eyes got awestruck by the sight.
There we have validated the report that Baguan Island is, indeed, home to most number of turtles. On that night alone, we had witnessed more than 20 female turtles nested on the beach fronting the DENR’s building. According to a DENR staff assigned in the island, an average of 80 female turtles come to lay eggs here every night.
However, rats and rodents are a new threat to this nesting ground, as they are eating the turtle eggs. To curb the problem, the DENR personnel tried to poison the rats.
Climate change
Another threat that poses danger to the turtle islands is climate change. Mayor Tang told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that the seawaters have already eroded the shorelines of Taganak Island. He showed us several Agoho trees uprooted by seawaters – a clear indication that the seawater rise is now felt and observed in the area. From its original land area of 135 hectares, the island has been reduced to 116 hectares in recent years.
Dr. Filemon Romero, an expert in oceanography, said, “there is really recession of seawaters inward,” which means that the sand and soil along the shorelines get eroded due to seawater rise.
If this condition goes unabated, where do we find the turtle islands in the years to come?
Youth advocates for climate change resiliency organized in TTVHS
By Alma L. Tingcang
TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur – About 81 students of Tukuran Technical-Vocational High School (TTVHS) attended the Advocacy Forum on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation which was held today, September 9.
Mr. Alfredo Sapuay, TTVHS principal welcomed the participants and expressed his gratefulness for being chosen as the venue for the climate change forum.
“The forum aims to address public apathy on climate change, adapt and strengthen mitigation measures, as well as inspire and motivate the active cooperation and participation of all sectors,” Zamboanga del Sur Infocenter Manager Claro A. Lanipa said, giving the rationale of the activity.
“Compared to other countries, the Philippines is very lucky because we have rich biodiversity,” says DENR RPAO chief Roservirico Tan. Climate change endangers the existence of flora and fauna in the country.
Participants took a closer look at the video documentary produced by PIA ZamBaSulTa. Aside from other advocacy materials being used in Climate Change Forums, this video is a localized version depicting disasters in Zamboanga Peninsula and awakens the sensibilities of participants.
They vowed to participate in all activities and support CC advocacy including tree planting in designated areas.
After the forum, the youth leaders identified the issues and concerns which are likely to happen in their respective communities to include sea level rise, flashflood, landslide, typhoon and El Niño. Tukuran is one of the coastal municipalities of Zamboanga del Sur.
Elected officers of “I am a Climate Change-Resilient Youth” Tukuran Chapter were the following: Warlito Nobleza – President; Iris Timosa – Vice President; Grace Angel Dayuha – Secretary; Kishel Mamentong – Treasurer; Famela Grace Tibor – Auditor; Elson Ladra – Business Manager and Queenie Jean Guliman – PIO.
The newly-elected officers took their oath of office before ICM Lanipa immediately after the forum.
TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur – About 81 students of Tukuran Technical-Vocational High School (TTVHS) attended the Advocacy Forum on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation which was held today, September 9.
Mr. Alfredo Sapuay, TTVHS principal welcomed the participants and expressed his gratefulness for being chosen as the venue for the climate change forum.
“The forum aims to address public apathy on climate change, adapt and strengthen mitigation measures, as well as inspire and motivate the active cooperation and participation of all sectors,” Zamboanga del Sur Infocenter Manager Claro A. Lanipa said, giving the rationale of the activity.
“Compared to other countries, the Philippines is very lucky because we have rich biodiversity,” says DENR RPAO chief Roservirico Tan. Climate change endangers the existence of flora and fauna in the country.
Participants took a closer look at the video documentary produced by PIA ZamBaSulTa. Aside from other advocacy materials being used in Climate Change Forums, this video is a localized version depicting disasters in Zamboanga Peninsula and awakens the sensibilities of participants.
They vowed to participate in all activities and support CC advocacy including tree planting in designated areas.
After the forum, the youth leaders identified the issues and concerns which are likely to happen in their respective communities to include sea level rise, flashflood, landslide, typhoon and El Niño. Tukuran is one of the coastal municipalities of Zamboanga del Sur.
Elected officers of “I am a Climate Change-Resilient Youth” Tukuran Chapter were the following: Warlito Nobleza – President; Iris Timosa – Vice President; Grace Angel Dayuha – Secretary; Kishel Mamentong – Treasurer; Famela Grace Tibor – Auditor; Elson Ladra – Business Manager and Queenie Jean Guliman – PIO.
The newly-elected officers took their oath of office before ICM Lanipa immediately after the forum.
Zamboanga September Siege: a Year after
By Jocelyn P. Alvarez
Zamboanga
City Sept. 09 (PIA) -- Exactly one year ago, boatloads of forces from a
breakaway faction of the MNLF entered Zamboanga City and engaged
elements of the Philippine Army in a firefight that led to a standoff.
Today,
Zamboanga City government remembers the September 2013 siege with
several activities to honor the fallen heroes, gallant soldiers and
civilians and the entire Zamboangueños for their unity in defending the
flag.
The
celebration
was highlighted by a simple ground breaking ceremony of houses on
stilts in the floating barangay-Mariki, led by the National Housing
Authority (NHA).
The
Mariki housing project is a part of the Zamboanga City Road Map to
Recovery and Reconstruction, or Z3R, the government’s rehabilitation
effort and assistance to the thousands of Internally Displaced People
(idps) caused by the seige.
Dubbed “September to Remember,” a Eucharistic Mass was celebrated early in the day.
To
recall, the President approved the Zamboanga City Roadmap to Recovery
and Reconstruction (Z3R) on December 22, 2013, with Php3.5-billion
budget.
Concerned agencies were given 18 months to build back Zamboanga City starting, started in January of this year.
Z3R Rehabilitation Project Mariki
According
to NHA Head Al Indanan, “642 housing units on stilts will be
constructed in Mariki, one of the affected barangays during the siege,”
adding that beneficiaries are families of siege fire victim who were
previously resident in the place.
Following the ground breaking today “full blast construction will start next week,” assured Engr. Indanan.
Completion of the 642 units is expected this December, Indanan said, explaining that each unit costs P175,000.
To date, two model houses were completely constructed to showcase how the actual houses on stilts look like.
Turn over of Housing Units –Z3R Paniran Resettlement Project
Shortly
after the ground breaking in Mariki, NHA turned over to the City
Government 120 land-based, duplex-type housing units in Paniran, Sta
Catalina.
The
city government then turned over the house keys to the
IDP/family-awardees of Paniran resettlement site. These families were
also victims of fire caused by the September siege.
Indanan said each unit has an area of 22 sq. Meter with construction cost at P175,000 per unit.
Z3R Project Objective
Z3R
aims to improve the overall environment of the affected communities by
ensuring hygiene and sanitation of communities, including appropriate
social service facilities, infrastructure and amenities.
The project also targets to provide communities with livelihood opportunities.
As
a long term objective, Z3R intends to protect coastal communities
against storm surges and in general, help protect the
environmentally-sensitive areas such as mangroves and waterways and
comply with “no
settlements” policy on hazards and danger zones.
Z3R
also hopes to minimize adverse social impacts and relocation by
prioritizing on-site housing rehabilitation and reconstruction and
ensure culturally-sensitive housing developments for IPs.
Improving
public safety and security of the community is also among the Z3R’s
objectives, and to realize this, “police and military facilities will be
provided and appropriate environmental protection measures will be
ensured.”
An art exhibit, named “Alegria en Artes para los Niños y Niñas” was also organized at the city hall lobby, in observance
of the Zamaboanga siege which left 140 dead and thousands of residents displaced. (NBE/JPA /PIA9)
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
ZN tripartite meeting of PDC, PPOC, PDRRMC held in Dipolog
By Mary May A. Abellon
DIPOLOG CITY – The provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte recently conducted a tripartite meeting of the Provincial Development Council (PDC), Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) at the 2nd Floor Commercial Building I, Boulevard Commercial Complex, this city.
The meeting, held on September 4, was presided by ZN Governor Roberto Y. Uy with the presence of Vice-Governor Senen O. Angeles, Board Members, local chief executives/representatives, officials and employees of national and local offices and representatives from private sectors.
“I am hoping that we can come up with a comprehensive output in this meeting,” Governor Uy said in his opening message.
“We must not work with word or tongue only but must work in action or deed,” he added quoting the Bible.
Provincial Budget Officer Mary Joy A. Abitona presented the 2015 Development Fund of the province amounting to Php 282,900,000.00.
On the other hand, the total estimated cost for programs and projects funded from external sources, counterpart funds for national line agencies and for the LGUs, general fund, calamity fund, and development fund amounted to Php 46,099,238,736.00.
“I am asking the local chief executives to revise their geohazard maps because of the many addition and changes of disaster risk prone areas in the province,” DILG Provincial Director Maria Calpiza J. Sardua asked the mayors and their representatives during the meeting.
Meanwhile, Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn T. Uy stressed that the Dipolog CDRRMC is incorporating both the man-made and natural disasters and calamities in its programs.
Federation of Senior Citizen Acting President George Labog asked the PDRRMC to also include the man-made disaster in their 2015 Action Plan like what the city of Dipolog has done.
DIPOLOG CITY – The provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte recently conducted a tripartite meeting of the Provincial Development Council (PDC), Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) at the 2nd Floor Commercial Building I, Boulevard Commercial Complex, this city.
The meeting, held on September 4, was presided by ZN Governor Roberto Y. Uy with the presence of Vice-Governor Senen O. Angeles, Board Members, local chief executives/representatives, officials and employees of national and local offices and representatives from private sectors.
“I am hoping that we can come up with a comprehensive output in this meeting,” Governor Uy said in his opening message.
“We must not work with word or tongue only but must work in action or deed,” he added quoting the Bible.
Provincial Budget Officer Mary Joy A. Abitona presented the 2015 Development Fund of the province amounting to Php 282,900,000.00.
On the other hand, the total estimated cost for programs and projects funded from external sources, counterpart funds for national line agencies and for the LGUs, general fund, calamity fund, and development fund amounted to Php 46,099,238,736.00.
“I am asking the local chief executives to revise their geohazard maps because of the many addition and changes of disaster risk prone areas in the province,” DILG Provincial Director Maria Calpiza J. Sardua asked the mayors and their representatives during the meeting.
Meanwhile, Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn T. Uy stressed that the Dipolog CDRRMC is incorporating both the man-made and natural disasters and calamities in its programs.
Federation of Senior Citizen Acting President George Labog asked the PDRRMC to also include the man-made disaster in their 2015 Action Plan like what the city of Dipolog has done.
Zambo Advocates training seek to boost climate change awareness
by Rene V. Carbayas
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Zamboanga advocates for climate change resiliency underwent a Trainors’ Training on Advocacy for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation last September 4-5 that aims to enhance advocates’ knowledge and skills to address public apathy on the issue of global warming and its impact to people’s lives.
Some forty advocates participated in the training-workshop, to include ZABIDA, Social Action Center of the Archdiocese of Zamboanga, SILSILAH Dialogue Movement with friends from Zamboanga Watershed Movement, the city link personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, selected barangay officials in vulnerable communities in Zamboanga and Basilan, the Department of Education, and the Philippine Information Agency-IX.
The participants received vital information from short talks on the first day from resource persons, namely: Maribel G. Enriquez of PAGASA (on weather and climate), Engr. Allan Rommel Labayog of PHIVOLCS (on earthquake and preparedness), and Emilia Vasquez-Julhajan of Office of Civil Defense-IX (on disaster adaptation and mitigation). The PIA handled the session on climate change and global warming.
Dr. Elmeir Apolinario, Acting City Administrator and OIC Action Officer of the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council joined the rest of the resource persons during the short forum after the talks. Apolinario emphasized that the city is manning the council with professionals, like engineers and medical personnel to boost the capability of the CDRRMC to respond effectively and efficiently to disasters and emergency situations.
Through role play and dramatization, the participants experienced how to do advocacy on particular subject like, promotion of breast feeding, eating of vegetables, anti-illegal drugs campaign, lobbying for a barangay infra project like basketball court for the youth, and selling memorial plan, among others.
Dave G. Malcampo, PIA9-ZBST Infocenter Manager processed the participants’ workshop output in terms of weak and strong points in doing advocacy as he connects the entire process in reducing people’s apathy on the impact of climate change.
During the said training, some participants expressed their realization on learning a lot of strategies and techniques in doing advocacy and also the need to enhance their communication skills.
A barangay official, who is also a retired military personnel revealed that for his years in the military service, it is only during the seminar that he encountered the sixteen techniques of advocacy.
Malcampo, however stressed that the first thing that an advocate must possess is interest and passion on the subject. “Interest is your driving force to learn,” Malcampo said as he discussed some tips in doing advocacy.
During the planning session of the different participating groups, the participants were convinced and compelled to widen the dissemination and information drive on the issue of climate change and its impact in Zamboanga Peninsula region.
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Zamboanga advocates for climate change resiliency underwent a Trainors’ Training on Advocacy for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation last September 4-5 that aims to enhance advocates’ knowledge and skills to address public apathy on the issue of global warming and its impact to people’s lives.
Some forty advocates participated in the training-workshop, to include ZABIDA, Social Action Center of the Archdiocese of Zamboanga, SILSILAH Dialogue Movement with friends from Zamboanga Watershed Movement, the city link personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, selected barangay officials in vulnerable communities in Zamboanga and Basilan, the Department of Education, and the Philippine Information Agency-IX.
The participants received vital information from short talks on the first day from resource persons, namely: Maribel G. Enriquez of PAGASA (on weather and climate), Engr. Allan Rommel Labayog of PHIVOLCS (on earthquake and preparedness), and Emilia Vasquez-Julhajan of Office of Civil Defense-IX (on disaster adaptation and mitigation). The PIA handled the session on climate change and global warming.
Dr. Elmeir Apolinario, Acting City Administrator and OIC Action Officer of the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council joined the rest of the resource persons during the short forum after the talks. Apolinario emphasized that the city is manning the council with professionals, like engineers and medical personnel to boost the capability of the CDRRMC to respond effectively and efficiently to disasters and emergency situations.
Through role play and dramatization, the participants experienced how to do advocacy on particular subject like, promotion of breast feeding, eating of vegetables, anti-illegal drugs campaign, lobbying for a barangay infra project like basketball court for the youth, and selling memorial plan, among others.
Dave G. Malcampo, PIA9-ZBST Infocenter Manager processed the participants’ workshop output in terms of weak and strong points in doing advocacy as he connects the entire process in reducing people’s apathy on the impact of climate change.
During the said training, some participants expressed their realization on learning a lot of strategies and techniques in doing advocacy and also the need to enhance their communication skills.
A barangay official, who is also a retired military personnel revealed that for his years in the military service, it is only during the seminar that he encountered the sixteen techniques of advocacy.
Malcampo, however stressed that the first thing that an advocate must possess is interest and passion on the subject. “Interest is your driving force to learn,” Malcampo said as he discussed some tips in doing advocacy.
During the planning session of the different participating groups, the participants were convinced and compelled to widen the dissemination and information drive on the issue of climate change and its impact in Zamboanga Peninsula region.
0Credit Surety Fund seen to boost economic resiliency in the countryside
By Mark Anthony M. Gito
DIPOLOG CITY - A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among stakeholders of Zamboanga del Norte and Dipolog City Credit Surety Fund (CSF) was recently inked with partner institutions of the CSF such as the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Industrial Guarantee and Loan Fund (IGLF).
The MOA signing was spearheaded by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Diwa C. Guinigundo at Top Plaza Hotel, this city on September 3, 2014.
Also in attendance were DBP Senior Assistant Vice President (SAVP) Aurora Maghirang, LBP Department Manager Vinicius Hamoy, and IGLF Senior Assistant Vice President Ma. Jocelyn Q. Pobre.
An audio-visual presentation dubbed “Credit Surety Fund: Sustaining Economic Growth through Increased Credit Flows” was shown by BSP to better understand, appreciate and get a clear vision of the CSF.
Mayor Evelyn T. Uy pointed out that without enough finances, government programs and interventions would be limited and the duty of carrying out public welfare will be delayed or worst, denied.
“We are given the power to enter into contract as stated in our local government code and we are blessed to have CSF that will carry out our plans. Indeed, our partnership is designed to alleviate the status of many Dipolognons,” Mayor Uy quoted.
BSP Deputy Governor Diwa C. Guinigundo said this will be extended to their respective cooperatives and NGOs in establishing an even bigger CSF in the province.
“What we can see from this consolidation is an even more potent, more responsive, more effective CSF in this part of the Philippines capable of advancing the cause of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) thereby achieving economic resiliency,” cited Guinigundo.
“We should be seeing more MSME’s enabled to start up operations, or expand their existing capacity. We should be seeing more job opportunities from this business process. We should be seeing more people leapfrogging from poverty to economic empowerment,” Guinigundo quoted.
According to him, “there are 7 cooperatives and 2 NGOs with total combined funds of P14.5 million under the Dipolog City CSF. On the other hand, there are 11 coops and only 1 NGO with total funds of P8.4 million in the province of Zamboanga del Norte. If this is added to the existing fund of Dipolog CSF of P14.5 million, then we have an overall total CSF of P22.9 million.”
“Because of the CSF, there would be no need for members to raise collateral. Members of coops and NGOs would have to assess their own member’s feasibility plan. The oversight committee would further scrutinize the loan proposal before it issues the letter of endorsement and CSF guarantee.
The program allows all MSMEs to borrow from the participating banks even without a long credit history,” he explained.
Governor Roberto Y. Uy, Vice-Mayor Horacio Velasco, board members, city councilors and other local government officials were all in attendance during the MOA signing.
DIPOLOG CITY - A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among stakeholders of Zamboanga del Norte and Dipolog City Credit Surety Fund (CSF) was recently inked with partner institutions of the CSF such as the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Industrial Guarantee and Loan Fund (IGLF).
The MOA signing was spearheaded by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Diwa C. Guinigundo at Top Plaza Hotel, this city on September 3, 2014.
Also in attendance were DBP Senior Assistant Vice President (SAVP) Aurora Maghirang, LBP Department Manager Vinicius Hamoy, and IGLF Senior Assistant Vice President Ma. Jocelyn Q. Pobre.
An audio-visual presentation dubbed “Credit Surety Fund: Sustaining Economic Growth through Increased Credit Flows” was shown by BSP to better understand, appreciate and get a clear vision of the CSF.
Mayor Evelyn T. Uy pointed out that without enough finances, government programs and interventions would be limited and the duty of carrying out public welfare will be delayed or worst, denied.
“We are given the power to enter into contract as stated in our local government code and we are blessed to have CSF that will carry out our plans. Indeed, our partnership is designed to alleviate the status of many Dipolognons,” Mayor Uy quoted.
BSP Deputy Governor Diwa C. Guinigundo said this will be extended to their respective cooperatives and NGOs in establishing an even bigger CSF in the province.
“What we can see from this consolidation is an even more potent, more responsive, more effective CSF in this part of the Philippines capable of advancing the cause of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) thereby achieving economic resiliency,” cited Guinigundo.
“We should be seeing more MSME’s enabled to start up operations, or expand their existing capacity. We should be seeing more job opportunities from this business process. We should be seeing more people leapfrogging from poverty to economic empowerment,” Guinigundo quoted.
According to him, “there are 7 cooperatives and 2 NGOs with total combined funds of P14.5 million under the Dipolog City CSF. On the other hand, there are 11 coops and only 1 NGO with total funds of P8.4 million in the province of Zamboanga del Norte. If this is added to the existing fund of Dipolog CSF of P14.5 million, then we have an overall total CSF of P22.9 million.”
“Because of the CSF, there would be no need for members to raise collateral. Members of coops and NGOs would have to assess their own member’s feasibility plan. The oversight committee would further scrutinize the loan proposal before it issues the letter of endorsement and CSF guarantee.
The program allows all MSMEs to borrow from the participating banks even without a long credit history,” he explained.
Governor Roberto Y. Uy, Vice-Mayor Horacio Velasco, board members, city councilors and other local government officials were all in attendance during the MOA signing.
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