One Mindanao - February 22, 2012

Cover Story

Keeping up with the ‘Davao Brand’

Frances Mae Gevera-MacapagatSouthern Mindanao

Today’s issue...Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012 Vol. 1 No. 192

page 4

1st Basilan Arts Conference set Feb 23-25 Rene V. Carbayas, Western Mindanao

Flooding affects 655 families in Surigao Norte16FEAbkilan, Caraga Region

Peace and order in Surigao del Sur is generally peaceful –- PNP/PA17Nida Grace B. Tranquilan, Caraga Region

Agriculture Secretary hands in and inspects agri projects in NorMin20Sonia Adecer, Northern Mindanao

TESDA TSP awards national certificates to 10 graduates21Pat Nano, Northern Mindanao

DepEd-ARMM Sec urges officials, teachers to support reforms29Perltta Changco, Central Mindanao

President Aquino inducts new officers of Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas 8Vice President Binay donates P1.5-M for Zambo. Norte senior citizens12 Franklin P. Gumapon, Western Mindanao

Hydro power expansion to ensure enough power supply for Davao del Sur24Carina L. Cayon, Southern Mindanao

SoCot rehabilitates farm-to-market roads30Dani Doguiles, Central Mindanao

9 10 14

PIA REGIONAL OFFICES

Executive Editor ……......... EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI

Managing Editor ……......... ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Caraga Region Officer-in-charge,PIARegionX

Associate Editors ……....... NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX

OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII

Regional Desk Editors …... Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Elaine O. Ratunil, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Copy Editors ……………….. Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region Nora C. Lanuza Molde, PIA Caraga Region

Layout Artists ……………... Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Zener R. Dumaguing, PIA Region X

Senior Layout Artists …..... Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region

Editorial Advisers :

ATTY. JOSE A. FABIADirector-General

Philippine Information Agency

SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMAPresidentialCommunicationsOperationsOffice

EDITORIAL BOARD

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephoneno.(062)215-1480/925-0038Cellphoneno.0908-8843404E-mail:[email protected]@yahoo.comBlogspot:www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook:PIAWesMinInfoBliz

Northern MindanaoGraces’Building,AntonioLunaStreetCagayandeOroCity9000TelefaxNo.(08822)72-66-83Telephoneno.(088)856-8178/729-594Cellphoneno.0928-52043050917-3084969E-mail:[email protected][email protected]:www.pia-10.blogspot.com

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)2/FKantoMotorsBldg.,QuimpoBlvd.,NewMatinaDavaoCity8000Telephoneno.(082)297-0991/301-8580Telefaxno.(082)297-0992/304-2044Cellphoneno.0917-7053606/0918-9202950E-mail:[email protected]

Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN) Provincial Capitol Compound Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St.KoronadalCity,SouthCotabato9506Telephoneno.(083)520-0249Telefaxno.(083)228-9736/228-9739/520-0100Cellphoneno.0921-6873373/0928-5204307E-mail:[email protected],[email protected]

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)ViceMayors’LeagueofthePhilippinesBldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephoneno.(085)341-5285/360-1239Telefaxno.(085)341-2370Cellphoneno.0917-7188834Email:[email protected],[email protected],phBlogspot:www.piacaraga.blogspot.comFacebook:PIACaragaUpdates,PIAAgusandelNorte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur

18 22 26

4 Wednesday, February 22, 2012 ONE MINDANAO

Competing against the so-called “big three” in the ice cream industry: Selecta, Nestle, and

Magnolia is much of an ambition for a newbie Davao-based ice cream product known to Dabawenyos as Allegro.

Cover Story

Keeping up with the ‘Davao Brand’

by Frances Mae Gevera-Macapagat

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 5

“ When we started, we never wanted to compete with these Big Three. Rather, we competed against our own.”, said Allegro spokesperson Leo Montelibano.

Davao’s own “Allegro” recipe was first concocted by a Dutch consultant who brought here the machineries and the recipe in 2006 to help out budding entrepreneur Allan Pang try out the ice cream investment.

However, the first taste of Allegro was too “Italian” that the owner feared it won’t capture the taste interest of the middle class Dabawenyos, their target market at that time.

Further market research and study by the in-house certified food technologist resulted to a perfect mix of Italian and Filipino taste.

Selling the product which is slightly cheaper over the multi-national ice cream goods turned out the earliest challenge that Allegro faced.

This was addressed by adding up its product line so as to capture various markets. It has offered the cheapest product which is Milkbar at P6 to the more costly kind Ice Cream Sandwich at P21 per

piece. Through the years, its Creamy Cone turns out a bestseller

capturing both the student and the working class

market. Also, the

business has also offered ice cream in gallons.

Despite massive marketing and product development, the business still found it challenging to


penetrate the market outside Davao.

This led the Allegro owner to avail of the Davao Branding Program under the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. which aims to upgrade the current level of appreciation for excellence and quality of locally manufactured products by introducing a local branding system for locally made products that are of

exceptional quality.

Davao branding was conceptualized to help Davao-

made products find a niche in both local

and international

m a r k e t s . D C C C I I officers believed that Davao Branding will create a strong identity and market presence for the quality of locally manufactured products in the local as well as international market; and that locally manufactured products will be encouraged to aspire for better quality and class.

The Davao Branding Program focuses its assistance to the micro, small and medium enterprise belonging in the sector of fresh and processed foods, floriculture, horticultures, livestock and poultry.

For Allegro Ice Cream, applying for the Davao Brand turned out an inspiration for the business to keep up and even do better with the standards set by the Accreditation Body.

In 2008, Allegro applied for and was eventually included into the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc.’s Davao Branding Program. Inclusion in the roster of Davao-made products getting the Davao Brand seal as seen on the product cover would now ensure buyers a quality product that passed a stringent assessment and evaluation of the accreditation board.

Montelibano said “this guarantees cleanliness of the production process, along with quality of the products. Davao Branding Seal attached to our products

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 7

signifies Allegro Ice Cream as Davao’s own”.

Allegro is currently being well accepted in major shopping malls and locations in Davao City like NCCC, SM, Victoria Plaza, DCLA, Yahu Malls, Lachmi and many more. Allegro Ice Cream is also available in different places in Province of Bukidnon.

Also, the local ice cream brand was tapped by the Holiday Gym and Spa to make Holiday Lite Ice Cream, which has less sugar and low fat for its healthy conscious demographic. Clients can still fill their craving without fear of compromising their clients and hard work.

Allegro is just one of the 19 Davao-made products that passed the accreditation process and got the Davao Branding Seal. Some of these products are Porky Best Chicharon, SULO Orchid Garden, Puentespina Orchids and Tropical Plants, Rosario Fruits Stop, Emerald Durian Palace, and Tagum Golden Foods.

“ We want to inculcate in the minds of the consumers that it is important to trust and buy products with the Davao Brand Seal as these are proven with quality.”, said Kathy Tupas of the DCCCII.

The Davao Branding team is now on its seventh round of accreditation

and now works on the area of cosmetics as a priority

sector.

The Davao City Council

s u p p o r t s this project of the DCCCII in a form of a city ordinance.

Former councilor Peter T. Laviña, sponsored the Ordinance 0355-07 creating the Davao Branding System. The ordinance also created the accreditation body composed of LGU, DCCCII, DTI, Department of Science and Technology and Department of Agriculture.

At the moment, the Davao Branding team continues to better processes and encourage more Davao-based businesses to have their products accredited by the program.

8 Wednesday, February 22, 2012ONE MINDANAO

ACROSS THE NATIONAquino declares August as history month

To enable Filipinos to properly observe and reflect on the major events in our nation’s history, President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared the month of August, and every August thereafter, as History Month.

In issuing Proclamation No. 339, which he signed on February 16, 2012, the President repealed Proclamation No. 1304 (s.1974) that set the observance of History Week from September 15 to 21.

“Whereas there is a need to transfer the observance of History Week from 15

to 21 September to the whole month of August and rename the occasion as History Month to emphasize the most significant turning points in Philippine History,” the Proclamation read.

The President cited the n e e d t o

extend the observance of our nation’s history from a week to a whole month “given the richness and diversity of our nation’s history” as well as the fact that “major events occurred in the month of August which concludes with National Heroes Day on 30 August.” (RCK)


President Aquino inducts new officers of Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas

President Benigno S. Aquino III inducted into office the new officers of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (Association of Broadcasters of the Philippines) in ceremonies held in Malacañang on Wednesday.

The President inducted officers of the KBP Board of Directors and the 2011 KBP Standards Authority at the President’s Hall of Malacañang.

The KBP Board who took their oaths of office before the President were: Herman Basbaño, chairman; Butch Canoy, vice chair; Ruperto Nicdao, Jr., president; Francis Cardona, executive vice president; Joselito Yabut, corporate secretary; Erwin

Galang, Rosario Bartolome and Philip Rama as directors.

The 2011 KBP Standards Authority, who were also sworn in by the President, were: Rafael V. Barreiro, Noel C. Galvez, Orly L. Pangcog, George M. Salabao, Msgr. Rufino B. Suplido, Carlo M. Diño, Fr. Ilde T. Dimaano, Waldemar M. Tarray, and

Wilhelm Dabu Soriano.Joining the President

were Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma,Jr., Presidential C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ramon Carandang and National Te l e c ommun i c a t i o n s Commissioner Gamaliel Cordova. (RCK)


piazampen.blogspot.comhttp://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-WesMin-Info-Blitz/204864762911310 [email protected]

Want to publish your photo, news and feature release just email

“I am both happy and proud that Dumingag was chosen by Mindanao Network for Sustainable Organic Farming Systems (MINSOFS) as the venue on this Mindanao-wide farmer’s activity. Indeed, this is a welcome development on us.”

By Gideon C. Corgue

Mayor grateful for 1st Mindanao Sustainable Agriculture Congress

11Wednesday, February 22, 2012 ONE MINDANAO

This was the statement made by Dumingag Mayor Nacianceno Pacalioga Jr. as the 1st Mindanao Sustainable Organic Agriculture Congress and Agro-Eco Tourism Fair (MSOAC-AETF) was held in this town on February 19-22, 2012. The theme of the fair is “Towards building a stronger sustainable organic agriculture in Mindanao.” In the Congress, Pacalioga said farmer-leaders will be taught by the organic farming experts to switch back from the conventional farming to organic farming saying that organic farming is a more environmentally friendly and the best and sustainable method of farming. MINSOFS is a network organized under the support of the Asia Network for Sustainable Organic Farming

Technology (ANSFOT) , said Pacalioga. He added that it is a very rare opportunity for a local government unit being offered to host this activity saying that it help promote the advocacy on organic farming. “Our dream is for our farmers to shift to organic farming and to get rid altogether the traditional method that uses intensive use of pesticides and commercial fertilizers,” he said. With the adoption of organic farming system, it is not a simple change of technology but a change of the whole farming system and to once and for all prevent capitalists’ monopoly over the life of farmers, Pacalioga concluded. (JPA/GCC/PIA9-Zambosur)


Vice President Binay donates P1.5-M for Zambo. Norte senior citizensBy Franklin P. Gumapon

The three towns have each received P500,000 from Vice President Binay as he barnstormed to these towns where he was also meeting with senior citizens. In Katipunan town, Binay told the senior citizens that they can also avail themselves of the privileges granted by the Makati City government to its senior citizens whenever they visit the city by virtue of the sisterhood agreement between these two local government units. Binay promised to help the senior citizens from Katipunan to get free medical treatment at the Makati University Hospital.

“Senior citizens who will participate in the Lakbay-Aral to Makati will be given free false teeth and free admission to selected movie houses there,” Binay said to the delight of the audience. The Vice President also pledged to assist in the low-cost housing project of the Zamboanga del Norte provincial government for its employees. He also visited Dapitan City to distribute relief goods to more than 3,900 flood victims during the Feb. 9 flooding wrought by heavy rains. (JPA/FPG/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte)

1st Basilan Arts Conference set Feb 23-25

ISABELA CITY - The Nagdilaab Foundation Inc. (NFI) and the Claret Colleege of Isabela (CCI) will host the first Basilan Arts Conference 2012 for cultural education and peace-building slated on February 23-25.

By Rene V. Carbayas

DIPOLOG CITY - In his visit here last week, Vice President Jejomar Binay handed a total of P1.5 million to the town mayors of Katipunan, Roxas and Manukan to be used in the construction/improvement of senior citizens centers.


The conference, with the theme “Taguima heritage, arts and peace,” intends to gather selected cultural educators teaching the arts and various artists in the communities to look into the state of the culture and arts in Basilan and how each could enrich creativity and the aesthetics values of young Basileños towards building peaceful communities. The project is supported by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the city government of Isabela, the provincial government of Basilan, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao regional government, the Department of Education (DepEd) – Isabela City School Division, and the Philippine Information Agency in Basilan. In its concept paper, the organizers hopes to finding better and sustained cultural education and

peace-building initiatives in Basilan. The organizers are alarmed of young people becoming ignorant of their own culture and have expressed concern over the diminishing appreciation of the arts and culture among the youth. Inputs and workshops will highlight the conference with lectures from cultural affairs officers Prof. Sunnie Noel of the Mindanao State University in Marawi City and Maechille Buhisan-Quiñones of the Southern Christian College. Other lecturers include Earl Pasilan, Victoria Siason, and the internationally renowned visual artist Rameer Tawasil. The conference is held in time for the observance of the National Arts Month this February with the theme “Tradisyon at Inobasyon” (Tradition and Innovation). (JPA/RVC-PIA9 ZBST)


www.piacaraga.blogspot.com http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-Caraga-Updates/165374590187484

[email protected][email protected]

GSIS PGM highlights services to members, pensionersby Robert E. Roperos

Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) President and General Manager (PGM) Robert Vergara presented the state insurer’s accomplishments highlighting three services to its members and pensioners that will be

beneficial in attaining the famous tagline of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III’s “Kayo ang Boss Ko” (You are my boss), during Monday’s Stakeholders’ Dialogue held in one of the local convention centers in Butuan City.

To attain Pres. Aquino’s “Kayo ang Boss Ko” tagline


Vergara said in order to get feedbacks, complaints and queries of all its members, it is necessary to conduct more consultative activities such as the stakeholders’ dialogue. He added through conducting series of consultations and dialogues with the members, officials of GSIS will know the prevailing situation experienced by its members and pensioners and thus, actions will be taken immediately. The official also said more transparency measures and strategies must be implemented by all regional and satellite offices. Vergara said one way of doing it is through

the GWAPS Kiosks that are installed in some government agencies nationwide. Through the kiosk, Vergara said members and pensioners will immediately know the flow of their transactions in GSIS. Finally, Vergara said having all of these strategies, members must be given priority. “Thus, GSIS is considering a more member-focused… by this, we mean every complaints or queries of the members and pensioners must be given attention immediately. In a related development, Vergara also said one of the initiatives that have been

implemented to provide responsive service is the deployment of more GWAPS Kiosks this year. The official further said this can help members to have more access of their records through this electronic technology. With these developments, Vergara urged all members and pensioners to transact at the GWAPS kiosks that are installed in some government agencies nationwide. In Butuan City, aside from the GSIS Butuan Branch, GWAPS kiosks are also installed in the Provincial Capitol of Agusan del Norte, Butuan City Hall, and the Regional Office of the Department of Education (DepEd).


SURIGAO CITY -- The intermittent to continuous rains brought by the low pressure area and tail end of a cold front last week has affected around 655 families in 10 barangays in the three municipalities of Surigao del Norte, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) said.

An initial report from the PDRMMO sent to PIA revealed that the municipality of Mainit accounted for 354 families or 2,124 individuals, which were evacuated in five barangays due to the overflowing of Lake Mainit.

In Tubod, around 139families or 526 individuals were evacuated from the four barangays while, in the municipality of Alegria, 162 families or 972 individuals were evacuated from only one barangay due to flooding. Vice Governor

Arturo Carlos Egay Jr. spearheaded the relief operations and the initial distribution of food packs to the evacuees of Mainit and Alegria. “A total of 400 food packs were distributed to the families,” the report added.

Flooding affects 655 families in Surigao Norte by FEAbkilan


Peace and order in Surigao del Sur is generally peaceful –- PNP/PA

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- In a recent Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) members’ meeting chaired by Gov. Johnny Pimentel held at the Provincial Capitol Conference Room, Surigao del Sur; the peace and order situation was assessed generally peaceful, according to Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Army (PA).

In a report presented by PNP Provincial Director PS/Supt Arthur Sanchez, he revealed that the government flagship projects and other economic activities are unhampered. “Although crimes against persons and properties perpetrated by common criminals continue to occur, these incidents however were constrained at the lowest level due to the crime prevention efforts being implemented in

coordination with the local government and other agencies of the government and the community partnership in combating criminality and in implementing security measures,” Sanchez said. On the other hand, the 401st Brigade under the command of Col Romeo Gan also concluded on their assessment that the area of their responsibility covering the entire province of Surigao

del Sur and seven municipalities in Agusan del Sur are relatively peaceful. Meanwhile, the Integrated Area/Community Public Safety Plan (IA/CPSP) presented by DILG Dir. Pedrito Alacaba that contained 10 areas of concern was approved by the council. The implementation of the IA/CPSP is in collaboration with the different government agencies provincewide for 2012.

by Nida Grace B. Tranquilan


Lanao civil society convenes to forge partnership with governmentby Apipa P. Bagumbaran

More than 300 representatives from the civil society organizations (CSOs) and key government executives converged here on for the first-ever Lanao del Sur People’s

Consultative Assembly.

Conducted by the Lanao del Sur People’s Council with the support of the provincial government, the gathering was aimed at mapping-out

productive collaboration towards a stronger CSO-government partnership for the development of the province and the Autonomous Region in Muslim


Mindanao (ARMM) as a whole. It was also designed to solicit reactions on the provincial government’s 7-point agenda and the ARMM’s 100-Day Reform Agenda which is anchored on three

frameworks namely governance, peace and security, and socioeconomic development. Provincial Governor Mamintal A. Adiong, Jr. said the gathering marks the start of a more challenged Maranao community in working for a positive transformation. He said sustainability will be achieved easier with the direct and dynamic involvement of CSOs in planning, decision-making, and implementation citing participatory governance as a common denominator in the success of some advanced nation. Lanao del Sur is the first province in the autonomous region to convene a partnership with its local government and the regional government. The provincial governor also expressed optimism for more strengthened civil society participation in local governance, socio-economic programs, infrastructure support, and


Agriculture Secretary hands in and inspects agri projects in NorMinby Sonia Adecer

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- Various agriculture and fishery projects in Northern Mindanao were handed over and inspected on the initiative of Department of Agriculture.

Aside from this, Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala also conducted a series of farmers and fisherfolks’ forum in Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon and cities of Iligan and Cagayan de Oro. In the island-province of Camiguin, Alcala declared

commitments to the agri-sector in the area by handing over projects amounting to P41,318,000. He also led the inauguration of the National Food Authority warehouse in Brgy. Balbagon while he has entrusted a P39-million worth farm-to-market road in Sitio Lima, Brgy. Kuigita.

in the promotion of peace and security. During the assembly, ARMM-OIC Governor Mujiv Hataman announced the priority agenda of his administration, which focuses on reform measures that involves consultative and open governance, convergence and partnership for soc io-economic serve delivery, and coalition building for peace and development. He also reiterated that the present governance in the ARMM

is transparent and participatory in keeping with the “Daang Matuwid” advocacy of President Benigno S. Aquino III.


TESDA TSP awards national certificates to 10 graduates by Pat Nano

CALAMBA, Misamis Occidental - Some 10 certified field workers received their national certificates (NCs) during the recent launching of the Technical Education, Skills and Development Authority’s (TESDA) Specialista Technopreneurship Program (TSTP) in Southwestern Poblacion, Calamba, Misamis Occidental.

Simultaneously launched nationwide, the TSTP aims to help the graduates in various fields of expertise to get employment either locally or abroad, with the NC serving as the gate pass or

start a business of their own, Provincial Director Leo Velez of TESDA said. Velez said the graduates can also ask the partner agencies of the TSTP and the local government units for help. (PIO)

In addition, Alcala spearheaded the launch of the harvest/incubation tank shed of the Sagay Multi-Species Hatchery in Brgy. Manuyog, Sagay, a facility ran by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources that breeds various fish species to support the livelihood programs of local residents and its neighboring towns.

Alcala also visited the Benoni Bangus Breeding and Experimental Station in Benoni, which completed various researches, such as population density of Pyrodinium bahamense, culture of green mussels, bangus culture in net-walled pen, polyculture of milkfish and siganid in marine

cages and experiments for tilapia in marine water conditions since its establishment in 1989. Among other projects handed over to the province include multi-purpose drying pavements, hermetic cocoons, and non-motorized bancas. (DA)


Musikahan sa Tagum 2012 formally opens;Beamed live to the world

Music as “an indispensable part of our lives,” thus chal-

lenged everybody to utilize it as it has maximum “power to change lives”, statement by Guest Speaker De Carlo “Oyo” L. Uy, the city’s senior councilor during the 11th year Opening of the Musikahan sa Tagum 2012. The 11th year of the Musikahan sa Tagum Festival formally opened

February 21, 2012 amidst a colorful ceremony, eliciting excitement from people who flocked to the Iconic New City Hall of Tagum to witness the 11th installment of the grandest music festival in Mindanao. After a decade of annual staging, the festival will gather musical enthusiasts

in the city and other parts of the country and in Asia for musical competitions, celebratory concerts and outreach performances in malls, hospitals and correctional institutions. As the crowd in the city hall witnessed a grand musical performances, global audience were also serenaded through the use of livestreaming in the worldwide


web, courtesy of the information technology students of the different academic institutions in the city. These students are the participants of the Musikahan @ I.T. Competition, the newest component of this year’s festival which shall explore the multi-faceted usage of information technology and the new media in creative industry and knowledge production. This will be participated in by IT educators and students from different learning institutions which shall compete in producing creative outputs promoting Tagum through websites, e-marketing application software disseminated through cellular phones and production of ringtones. Musikahan 2012 banners the theme “Harvest of Creativity, Celebrating Global Harmony.” City of Tagum Tourism Council President Mrs. Alma Uy underscored the importance of holding this annual festival which also “celebrates creative harvest” in pursuit for “social cohesion and pride of place.” Guest Speaker De Carlo “Oyo” L. Uy, the city’s senior councilor, magnified music as “an indispensable part of our lives,” thus challenged

everybody to utilize it as it has maximum “power to change lives.” “Music transcends national values and connects human cultures,” the young Uy told the crowd which includes his father, Mayor Rey T. Uy and later advocated the strengthening of the Musikahan Festival through the Public-Private Partnership. After the opening rites, the first celebratory concert was held, featuring Asian Gems such as Korean Soprano Ms. Eun Ha Choi, Indonesian Kulintang Player Symon Adare, pianist Gabriel Paguirigan, violinist Jimmy Tagala, Soprani Myramae T. Meneses, the Maco Children’s Rondalla, La Filipina National High School Folk Dance Troupe, the TCNCHS Alumni Rondalla and Miss Rochelle Venuti. Highlighting the Musikahan 2012 will be the following: Himig Handog Choral Competition, Rondal-Awit Rondalla and Solo Singing Competition and Festival and Avenida Musika Marching Brass Band Competition. Pasiklaban sa Musikahan Battle of the Band Competition and the Huni ug Kasikas sa Dalan Drum, Lyre and Bugle Competition shall also add tone and color to the revelries. (CIO)

facts and figures1:1,200 Current ratio of policeman per

population in Davao City. Ideal ratio would be about 1 cop per 500 residents


Hydro power expansion to ensure enough power supply for Davao del SurDIGOS CITY -- The expansion project of a hydro power system of the AboitizPower company here would ensure sufficient power supply for the province, Governor Douglas Cagas said. Cagas has recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the officials of Hedcor Tudaya, Inc. (HTI), signifying the onset of the 14.7 mega watts run-of-river hydro power systems at Sitio Tudaya, Barangay Sibulan in Sta. Cruz town, this province. The project is an extension to the existing 42.5 MW Sibulan hydro power plant operated by the Hedcor Sibulan, Inc. (HSI), also located in Sta. Cruz, and which started operations in 2010.

The governor said the additional power supply to be generated by Hedcor’s hydro power plants along with the forthcoming solar power project of the Ayala group would provide enough power to meet the need of Davao del Sur. At present, the province does not suffer from power curtailment, Cagas told the media after the MOA signing on February 17 at the governor’s office. HTI president and chief operating officer Rene Ronquillo said the construction of two new hydro power plants would cost to about P2.5 billion. He said that HTI would develop Tudaya plant 1 at the upstream of the existing Sibulan hydro power

plant A, and the Tudaya plant 2 would be built downstream of Sibulan hydro power plant B. Ronquillo said that the 14.7MW hydro power facility to be operated by HTI is estimated to generate 76 million kilowatt hour of clean and renewable energy annually. The project will have its groundbreaking rites on March 16 this year, and construction is expected to be completed in 18 to


20 months, he said. Ronquillo said that Hedcor or the Hydro Electric Development Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower Corporation, recognizes the power need of Mindanao. “Developing the hydro power plants is a good opportunity (for the company) to give and serve the needs of Mindanao, especially with renewed energy,” he told the media in an interview. He said that Hedcor is also developing hydro power plants in Kitaotao, Bukidnon. He added that the company is also hoping for its hydro power project proposal at Barangay Tamugan in Davao City to push through. Hedcor is said to be the largest developer of run-of-river hydropower plants in the country with 18 plants

in Benguet, Ilocos Sur and Davao Region. Meanwhile, Sta. Cruz Mayor Joel Ray Lopez was thankful for the hydro power expansion project, saying that this would guarantee sufficient power required especially in his municipality where big industrial companies are operating. Lopez said that this new development would be additional attraction for investors to pour in the town. Cagas, on the other hand, said that he assured with Hedcor to give priority as power distributor to Davao del Sur Electric Cooperative, Inc. (DASURECO). The electric coop is currently servicing electric power to more than a hundred thousand households in the entire province of Davao del Sur. (PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon)

did you know...That Mt. Hamiguitan in Davao Oriental is the home of the Hamiguitan hairy-tailed rat (Batomys hamiguitan) discovered just in 2006. The rat species lives in an area 950 meters high in the mossy forests of the mountain.


Sarangani is country’s top classroom builder & PPP leader in educationby Cocoy Sexcion and Beverly Paoyon

MALAPATAN, Sarangani – Sarangani Province is the best performer in the whole country in terms of implementing school building programs, a top education official said during a recent turnover ceremony of new school buildings for elementary and high schools in a far-flung village here.


“Last week, during the turnover of SPPC (Southern Philippines Power Corporation)-funded school buildings in Alabel, I reported to the governor that for the school year 2012-2013, Sarangani will be receiving 90 school buildings with a total project cost of 61 million pesos from the regular budget of Department of Education’s school building program,” said Dr. Allan Farnazo, schools division superintendent of the Department of Education (DepEd), in his words of challenge to the tribal community of barangay Kihan in Malapatan.

“But the most significant news that I am going to report to you is the effort of the governor for sourcing out funds through Public Private Partnership (PPP) for the construction of 162 classroom buildings all over the province,” Farnazo said.

The Kihan event on Wednesday (February 15) was attended by provincial officials headed by Governor Migs Dominguez, Sarangani educators

led by Dr. Farnazo, municipal officials, barangay officials headed by Barangay KIhan chairman Danilo Abdulradzak, parents and tribal elders and leaders.

The two elementary classroom buildings were funded by DepEd through its Basic Education Facilities Fund with a project cost of P2.2 million.

The high school two-classroom building was built through the Department of Public Works and Highways’ School Building Program.

After the program, Gov. Dominguez called a meeting with barangay officials and tribal elders and leaders to come up with a

solution to minimize, if not eliminate, school drop outs.

The caucus produced a written agreement between the governor and the barangay officials that the governor will only outsource funds from private partners for the construction of a P0.5 million worth of “classdorm”. The “classdorm”, a classroom that is converted into a dormitory, is for incoming high school students living in the remotest area of the barangay if the Grade VI pupils will all pass and graduate this summer.

The tribal elders and leaders in this Blaan community also agreed that tribal women will only be allowed to get married if they finish


high school as appealed earlier by Dr. Farnazo.

Meanwhile in Alabel, two new classrooms were inaugurated on February 6. The Southern Philippines Power Corporation (SPPC) turned-over two classrooms worth P1,327,000 which marked the firm’s 26th donation for Sarangani.

The donation was in cooperation with Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc. and Sarangani Province Empowerment and Community Transformation Forum.

The new schools were the 102nd and 103rd classroom buildings constructed and turned-over in Sarangani under

the administration of Governor Dominguez.

One of the classrooms was in Leopoldo D. Dacera Elementary School established on top of a hill overlooking a village in barangay Domolok while the other one was in Upper Alabel Elementary School.

Both are fully furnished and complete with 40 school chairs each, electrical lightings, comfort room and ceiling fans which cost P672,000 and P655,000, respectively.

In a bid to complement the lack of classroom facilities in the province, Tirso Santillan Jr., chief executive director of Power Business Unit of Alcantara Group of Companies, the

classrooms were their company’s contribution to education in Sarangani as part of their corporate social responsibility and community relations program.

“Kaya naming ginagawa ito ay para rin sa kinabukasan ng ating mga anak, ang ating mga susunod na henerasyon. Kasi gusto naming mabigyan sila ng pagkakataon na umunlad ang buhay nila,” Santillan explained.

Purok 12 Dacera before had no school and students have to cross a river to reach the nearest school in the adjacent barangay Batomelong, a place already part of General Santos City.

This means that with the school and new classroom, according to PTA (Parents Teachers Association) president in Leopoldo D. Dacera Elementary School Joji Perez, “the children don’t any longer need to cross the river and we are very grateful that we now have our school.”

Since the first Grade VI graduates would come this year, Dominguez challenged DepEd and the local officials to put up a high school building


in Dacera before the opening of classes starts in June to cater the incoming first year students.

Dominguez then pointed out to parents their responsibility in moulding their children to be successful professionals in the future that they “should not just rely everything to the Department of Education (Ang kaugmaon sa inyong mga bata dili lang nato ihatag sa DepEd.)

Schools division superintendent Farnazo quoted Dominguez’ battle cry “it takes a village to raise a child,” saying “most often we leave to DepEd the responsibility of educating the children.” This, however Farnazo lamented DepEd could not solely cope with so

many constraints in the department.

“We know that government funds is not enough to comply with all the needs but with our concerted efforts we could prepare for the future of our children (Kabalo kita nga ang pondo sa gobyerno dili igo para sa mga kinahanglanon apan inubanan sa atong pagtambayayong ato ra mahimo ang kaugmaon para sa atong mga anak), Farnazo said.

He then said “SSPC should claim the honour of always establishing and constructing the first-ever concrete classrooms in all the schools that DepEd has not reached yet. Bago maabot ang DepEd, naconstruct na ang concreto nga building.”

The classrooms,

he said, symbolize “our dreams for our children that will form the minds in the future of our children. These will build their minds, will strengthen their character and will provide them better future.”

At the same time, Dominguez announced that the provincial government already approved the P55-million road network project connecting barangay Domolok to Purok 12 Dacera hopefully to be implemented this April which is anticipated to ease access of services and transportation in the area (Cocoy Sexcion & Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI I N F O R M A T I O N OFFICE/DEDoguiles/PIA 12)

DepEd-ARMM Sec urges officials,teachers to support reformsBy Perltta Changco

COTABATO CITY-- The regional secretary of the education department of the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) called on teachers and school officials to support the reforms being instituted in the department and assured readiness to have regular meetings to boost the mentors’ morale in pursuit of an improved education system in the autonomous region.


According to Maguindanao Schools Division I Supt. Meriam Kawit, DepED-ARMM regional secretary Jamar Kulayan met with more than 2,700 teachers, district supervisors and division officials of

Magu i ndanao Division I on February 17, 2012.

Kawit said, S e c r e t a r y K u l a y a n e m p h a s i z e d the urgency of instituting needed reforms such as the use of ATM system for salaries of teachers to address and cleanse the issues of “ghost teachers, ghost school buildings and ghost pupils” among others,

hounding the agency for the past decades.

Kawit added, they welcome and support the efforts of the regional secretary Jamar Kulayan to reach out and personally hear the issues

and concerns of teachers particularly on regular release of their salaries and lack of supplies.

“We appreciate the initiative of our new regional secretary, specially may practice among teachers na isinanla ang kanilang ATM sa money lender at balak na mag-apply ng panibagong ATM card”(Specially some teachers have the practice of pawning their ATM to money lender and the plans to apply for another new ATM), she said.

Kawit also said the regional secretary has warned public school teachers against illegal collection of graduation and year book fees and other contribution, emphasizing the holding of simple graduation rites. (pbchangco/PIA Cotabato City)

SoCot rehabilitates farm-to-market roadsby Dani Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato,-- Transporting farm products in some interior barangays in South Cotabato will soon be easier once road rehabilitation projects are completed, a local government official said.

Barangay Affairs Unit chief Joel Dimput recently announced the province will

be implementing in the coming weeks a P5-M project for the construction

of Junction National Highway San Vicente – Malaya road in nearby Banga town.


“The provincial government has already received SARO (Special Allotment Release Order) from the Department of Budget and Management for the implementation of the project,” Dimput said.

The fund was taken from the allocation of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) following request by Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr.

“Gov. Pingoy has ordered Engr. Marnilo Aperocho, acting chief

of the Provincial Office, to immediately prepare the program of work for the project so that this can be started at once,” Dimput said.

“Once the dilapidated road is repaired and rehabilitated, moving agricultural products from the interior barangays to intended markets would be easier and cheaper.”

The road, he said, would also benefit farm families in barangay Puti and other barangays in adjacent Norala town.

Dimput also announced that the rehabilitation of Upper Sepaka – Kibang farm-to-market road is nearing completion.

“Gov. Pingoy made this a priority project of his administration to so that products in Barangay Ned would be transported to Sto. Niño and Surallah towns in South Cotabato instead of the bringing these to markets in Sultan Kudarat,” he said.

He said, Engr. Aperocho has assured that the Sepaka-Kibang FMR would be more durable.

Instead of using mountain fill in the road upgrading, the project is using sand and gravel quarried from a river in Surallah to make sure that road would not be easily washed out.

Dimput said the provincial government is also considering putting up detachments in several locations from Barangay Ned to Upper Sepaka for security purposes. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)

Documents

One Mindanao - February 22, 2012