One Mindanao - July 31, 2014

Caraga Math wizards gear up to contend for international competitionsVenus L. GarciaCARAGA REGION

THURSDAY, JULY 31, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 231

Palace welcomes Vatican’s announcement of Pope Francis’ visit to Manila

NATIONAL

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CARAGA REGION

NORTHERN MINDANAO

CENTRAL MINDANAO

SOUTHERN MINDANAO

WESTERN MINDANAO

Caraga RDC to conduct ‘Be the Agent of Change’ competitions

Caraga RDC endorses fiscal year 2015 proposed budgets

PMA ‘Matikas’ class of 1983 leads the Army in Mindanao

Solons back police in keeping Oro’s peace, order

School in Koronadal City forms 4-H Club for agri students

2 more villages benefit from North Cotabato LGU’s medical-dental outreach

P176.4 million new public classrooms turned over to DavOr’s typhoon-hit areas

DAR-Zambo Norte celebrates 5th CARPER anniversary

NGCP to establish Visayas-Mindanao interconnection project

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Information to Empower Filipinos

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4ID

CdeOSP

Danilo E. Doguiles

Shahana Joy E. Duerme

K. Deloso

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Sherwin E. Verdun

Nora L. Molde

Alfonso T. Ruda

Mary May A. Abellon

Caraga Math wizards gear up to contend for international competitions

Caraga Math wizards gear up to contend for international competitions

The three pupils from two different schools in Caraga region who have been chosen by the Mathematics

Development Academy of the Philippines handled by the Mathematics Trainer’s Guild (MTG) are now primed and in full preparation to vie with perseverance in the 2014 International Mathematics Competitions (IMC) on August 1-4 to be held in Singapore. Math wizards Raul Joshua Limbaga and Elysa Velle Garcia, pupils from Butuan City Special Education (SPED) Center, and Jules Ivan Cunanan of San Francisco SPED Learning Center, Agusan del Sur are placed in the best position to comprise the Philippine Team in the said prestigious international level competition. Getting the exceptional opportunity to take the challenge in facing the battle with the bests in

by Venus L. Garcia

COVER STORY

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Mathematics from across countries, the three have undergone training and reviews inspite of their hectic academic schedules hoping and praying to bring home the bacon. Principal of Butuan City SPED Center Restituto Navarro said that the school has lived up to enhancing the knowledge and skills of its learners in all areas of development, thus, continually producing globally-c o m p e t i t i v e

pupils. “This is not just about winning a competition, it is about cultivating future users of Mathematics, Mathematics researchers, and individuals who simply enjoy their inclination in the subject matter in general,” said Navarro. In a separate competition, Marie Katerina Grace Aala of same school is set to fly to Kaohseong, Taiwan on August 9-12 to join the highly regarded World Math Invitational Competition. Also, the school was able to send Eugo Zendo Asunto to the Asia Pacific Math Cup/King of Mathematics in Hongkong on June 28 to July 1, 2014 where he garnered silver and bronze medals. Both Joie Anne Marie Magdalera and Justin Joy Conde also received the merit prizes. For the China Math Cup/Asia Cup held on July 18-22, 2014 in Hongkong, Bensan John Dagani and Shiloh Ruth Sasuman of Butuan City SPED Center have proudly received the silver and bronze medals for their well deserved efforts. Moreover, gifted pupils, namely, Simon Matthews Autor and Ambrose James Torreon of Father Saturnino Urios University and Rainbow of Angels Learning, Inc., all in Butuan City, respectively have brought home bronze medals and merit awards. Also, Math enthusiast Hans Ethan Ting from Rainbow of Angels Learning, Inc. ranked first place (Star of the Olympic Math) and second place (Chong Hua Cup).

Agusan National high School students Patricia Radaza and William Hangad, on the other hand, also reaped silver and bronze medals each. Meanwhile, the city government of Butuan through mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. promised to provide a monetary assistance in the amount of P39,000. Likewise, Agusan del Norte 1st District representative Lawrence Lemuel Fortun will give P10,000 as a support for the processing fee and travel expenses abroad of the contingents. Other good-hearted private individuals have benevolently granted financial aid to the contestants who personally seek for extra sponsorship for them to surely represent the country and experience this significant journey despite constraint in economic status.

“We believe that this amount could make a worthy contribution to the outstanding achievement of these pupils by helping them pursue and proceed to the competition venue,” said Navarro. MTG Philippines’ international contest committee chairman Eduardo dela Cruz, Ed. D., bared that “our young mathematicians’ participation is one that will bring much pride and honor to our country as they are counted as among those smart math-gifted Filipino students to carry the Philippine banner into the competition arena.” Dela Cruz said, the contest will be another enriching experience where the competitors can explore possibilities beneficial to the enhancement of their mathematical ability and giftedness. “They also can have the best opportunity to meet friendly contenders and feel the exciting bonding during the social and cultural events,” he added. Completely supportive with this endeavor, the teachers of the contestants are giving utmost consideration by allowing them to be excused from the classes and be given the needed requirements to make up their marks especially on those days that they will be competing overseas. Adding up the moral and spiritual support of their parents, these potential students will certainly run the whole race with confidence and go home victorious for taking the challenge.

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Communications Secretary Coloma welcomes Filipino-American tourists to MalacañangPresidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio

Coloma, Jr. warmly welcomed the participants of this year’s 9th Ambassadors, Consuls General and Tourism Directors’ Tour (ACGTDT) at Malacañang Palace’s Heroes Hall on Wednesday.

Accompanied by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Secretary Coloma received the 264 ACGTDT

delegates, all from the United States.“Every Filipino who travels, or lives

and works overseas, feels a deep sense

Across the Nation

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of longing to come home and revisit the homeland. With as much enthusiasm and excitement as migrant Filipinos have aspired to explore and excel abroad, they are similarly filled with anticipation for rekindling friendships and re-creating the warmth of hearth and home,” he said in his brief welcome remarks.

Coloma shared his experience working inside the official workplace and residence of the President of the Philippines and how other people, including US President Barack Obama, were impressed by the grandeur of Malacañang.

The Palace tour is the highlight of the ACGTDT, which was conceptualized by Secretary del Rosario in 2005.

In his speech, Secretary del Rosario expressed gratitude as the program continues to achieve its objectives in “strengthening family ties, renewing friendships, building business partnerships, and leading to personal discoveries.”

He underscored the ambassadors’ tour’s contribution to the tourism sector in sustaining the country’s socio-economic growth.

“Your tourism dollars have a multiplier effect on local businesses as revenues are generated by a number of supporting industries, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation, among others,” he said.

He noted that reforms are being undertaken by the government to further enhance the tourism industry.

“Much needed infrastructure is being prioritized, shortage of hotel rooms is being addressed, and aviation and industry taxes are being studied to make our tourism industry more competitive,” he said.

Del Rosario also gave a brief overview of the deepening and broadening relations of the Philippines and the United States, citing the recent visits of key US officials, among them President Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, and Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker.

He also mentioned that the US’ $40-million grant under the Global Security Contingency Fund aims to further build the capacities of the Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine National Police in terms of maritime security and counter-terrorism.

He reiterated that the recently signed Philippine-US Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement will bring greater advantage to the country in strengthening alliances, advancing defense capabilities, and increasing readiness in times of disaster.

He further noted that the Philippines’ economic partnership with the United States is “on an upward trajectory,” citing the Philippines’ upgrade to Category 1 status by the US Federal

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Palace welcomes Vatican’s announcement of Pope Francis’ visit to Manila

Malacañang is looking forward to His Holiness Pope Francis’ four-day trip to the Philippines next year, which reportedly

includes a visit to areas devastated by super typhoon “Yolanda,” as well as the University of Santo Tomas.

Aviation Administration and removal from the Special 301 Watch List.

Secretary del Rosario meanwhile disclosed that bilateral and multi-stakeholder consultations are being conducted to learn how joining Trans-Pacific Partnership would benefit the country.

He expressed hope that the delegates would have a deeper understanding of their roots and heritage by visiting the Philippines.

“The ACGTDT is an important program that significantly contributes to the deepening of our already robust relations. As both our countries march towards a future full of both opportunities and challenges, our partnership, whether economic, political, or people-to-people, must remain strong, steady and steadfast,” he said.

The ACGTDT, a joint project of all the Philippine Foreign Service Posts in

the United States and Canada, aims to encourage Filipino-Americans to visit the Philippines as part of the country’s intensified tourism campaign.

The tour is led by ranking Philippine officials in North America and is participated by professional and business groups. Only the US is taking part in this year’s tour as Canada launched a separate tour last January 17 to 24.

The basic tour package consists of a three-day, four-night stay in Manila and other nearby destinations, a tour of Malacañang Palace, and a wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument.

Participants are also given welcome and farewell dinners as well as options to avail of tour packages to other top tourist destinations in the country, such as Boracay, Cebu, Palawan, and Bohol. PND (jb)

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“The government joins the Filipino people in welcoming the Vatican’s announcement confirming that His Holiness Pope Francis will make an Apostolic Visit to the Philippines on January 15 to 19, 2015,” Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said in a statement released Tuesday evening.

He said President Benigno S. Aquino III is calling on all concerned government offices and the citizenry to work closely with the papal visit committee in ensuring the success of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Visit.

Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. has also been designated by the President as the government’s lead point person for the papal visit.

Coloma said Pope Francis’ first visit to the country marks the 20th anniversary of the celebration of World Youth Day in Manila that was presided over by one of his predecessors and recently canonized St. John Paul II.

“Filipinos will most certainly accord to Pope Francis the warmth of their hospitality and manifest the fervor of their faith as they welcome the first Pontiff from South America,” Coloma said.

The Philippines is considered as the third largest Roman Catholic country in the world, after Brazil and Mexico. More than 80 percent of the country’s population practices the faith, according to the National Statistics Office. PND

Photo Credit : www.rappler.com

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Bangsamoro Basic Law to respect IP rights -- DelesPresidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos

Deles in a meeting with leaders of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in Mindanao on Friday affirmed that IP rights will be respected in the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

“From the start, the government has been committed to IP rights. We will never allow you to become second-class citizens in Mindanao,” Deles told IP leaders in a meeting held at the Office of the Presidential Adviser on

the Peace Process (OPAPP) on July 25.In attendance were representatives

from the Teduray Justice & Governance, Gempa te Kelindaan ne Erumanen ne Menuv and Initiatives for International Dialogue (IID).


Datu Roldan Babelon said that IP leaders are supportive of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

“Hindi kami aayaw sa peace agreement. Support kami doon sa Bangsamoro right to self-determination. (We will not say no to the peace agreement. We support the Bangsamoro’s right to self-determination),” he said. “Kami po ay magpapatotoo doon sa historical injustice na nakamit nila. Support kami na magkaroon na talaga ng peace ang Mindanao (We were witnesses to the historical injustice they experienced. We support achieving lasting peace in Mindanao).”

Deles stressed that indigenous peoples, like the Bangsamoro people who form a minority in Mindanao, shall be respected in the future Bangsamoro region that will be created to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) by 2016. “The IPs are national minorities that are respected in the country,” she said.

“We have always made sure in the peace process that the new Bangsamoro must be inclusive. That means there will be respect for minorities within this minority area (future Bangsamoro region),” Deles added.

The peace adviser likewise mentioned that even MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim supports inclusivity in the Bangsamoro, quoting his statement during the signing of the CAB last

March 27, “The CAB is not only for the MILF. It is for the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) as well as much as it is for all the Muslim ethnic tribes, the Christian settlers, and the indigenous peoples in the prospective Bangsamoro government territory.”

Provisions in BBL for IPsThe Bangsamoro Transition

Commission (BTC) drafted the BBL in line with the provisions of the CAB. The Office of the President received it in April and has made comments on the draft. Upon the request of the BTC, the draft is currently being discussed by the GPH and MILF peace panels to arrive at a mutually acceptable proposed law that will be submitted to Congress for passage this year.

BTC Chair Mohagher Iqbal, also the MILF Peace Panel Chair, said last May during a meeting with the IP sector that the BTC has ensured the inclusion of IP concerns in the draft law.

He mentioned some provisions in BBL, which include among others: the right of the IPs for native titles and respect to indigenous customs and traditions, justice systems, and political structures; right to an equitable share in the revenues from utilization of resources in their ancestral land; right to free and prior and informed consent; right to political participation including at least two reserved seats for the IPs in the parliament; right to basic services; and right to freedom of choice to self-identity. (PNA)

RDC-Caraga invites info officers to communicate RDP goal


RDC-Caraga invites info officers to communicate RDP goal By Venus L. GarciaBUTUAN CITY - In order to properly communicate to the people the revised Caraga Development Plan (RDP) 2013-2016, the Regional Development Council (RDC) through its secretariat, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga has gathered today the information officers from government agencies and local government units of the region for the Agents of Change Forum held in one of the convention centers, this city.


“Through the active coopera-tion of our information officers, they can help increase aware-ness; impart knowledge; and in-crease participation among target audiences, following a process of behavior change framework with the use of proven communica-tion tools to appropriately com-municate the goal of the RDP,” explained NEDA-Caraga regional director Mylah Faye Aurora Carino. For the ‘practicing’ step of the process of behavior change, “we want to see Fishery, Agro-forestry, Mineral, and Eco-Tourism (FAME)-related industries created and that individuals, institutions, and com-

munities are supporting Caraga’s goal of becoming the FAME center of the Philippines,” Carino added. For advocacy, it intends to mo-bilize partners to become advocates in their individual offices, commu-nities, and schools. The rest of the behavior change steps will be the conduct of activities that will pro-vide avenue for influencers to mod-el their behavior, provide resourc-es and support to raise individual confidence, and provide incentives and rewards for the behaviors. Carino emphasized that the communicators have the significant function of being catalyst of posi-tive change in the government ser-


vice and in the community. She also said that the key message is, “Be the Agent of Change,” that mean-ingfully encourage everyone to do noteworthy things in whatever they do and become agents of change for others to follow and emulate. Carino also appreciated the full support of the Philippine Informa-tion Agency Caraga through regional director Abner Caga to the regional development council’s endeavors in expanding awareness by utiliz-ing PIA’s communication platforms. In her keynote speech, NEDA development information staff di-

rector Nerrisa Esguer-ra addressed the in-formation officer participants to communicate credibly and clear-ly the revised RDP 2013-2016. Since the big step forward has been initiated, “the chal-lenge is to sustain the growth. Growth that matters to and ben-efits everyone, and that reduc-es poverty in general,” she said. The RDP 2013-2016 is the blueprint to attain high and sus-tained economic growth,, increased job opportunities, sound environ-ment, and improved quality of life.


Caraga RDC to conduct ‘Be the Agent of Change’ competitions

BUTUAN CITY - The Regional Development Council (RDC) Caraga region through its secretariat – National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) is calling all Caraganons to join the “Be the Agent of Change” competitions, the Jingle-Making, Canvass Painting and Photography competitions.

According to the regional director Mylah Faye Aurora B. Carino of National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga, the contest is open to all interested Caraganons.

For the Jingle-Making contest, all interested amateur and professional songwriters, whether group or individual are invited to join.

Carino also said, the contest song entries must not be more than 60 seconds in length and should bear the

theme “Be the Agent of Change.”Original composition should be

submitted at NEDA office located Nimfa Tiu Bldg. 1, J. Rosales Avenue, this city.

Entries that will get the first place will receive P15,000; second place will also get P10,000; and P5,000 will be given to the third place winner.

For the Photography competition, the RDC is also inviting hobbyist, novices and professionals who are

By Nora L. Molde


also residents of the region.The original photos should be

submitted at NEDA Caraga office and should also bear the theme “Be the Agent of Change”.

Photos that will be judged as the first place winner will get P4,000; second place – P3,000; third place – P2,000; and the most like photo will receive P4,000.

The submission of entries for both the Jingle-Making and Photography Competitions is from August 5 to 31, 2014.

For the Canvass Painting Competition, each Schools Division is entitled to have one official representative to participate. The competition will be held on September 30 at Robinsons Place here.

The Canvass Painting competition is open to bonafide high school students from any school in the region provided they are endorsed by their respective

Schools Division.The dimension of the

canvass painting shall be three feet by two feet (3 ft. x 2 ft.) and should bear the advocacy logo “Be the Agent of Change.”

A cash prize will be given to winners: first prize will get P5,000; second – P4,000; and third prize winner will get P3,000.

All the participants of the Canvass Painting Competition will receive cash of P2,000 each and the coach will also be given P1,000 each.

For more details and mechanics of the competitions, visit caraga.neda.gov.ph/Caraga or call tel. no. (085) 341-4195.

The contest is also sponsored by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).


Caraga RDC endorses fiscal year 2015 proposed budgets BUTUAN CITY - The Regional Development Council (RDC) endorsed the fiscal year 2015 proposed budgets of regional line agencies and state colleges and universities of Caraga during its 78th Full Council Meeting recently.

By Sherwin E. Verdun

The Caraga RDC endorsed a total of PhP32.83 billion proposed budget for fiscal year 2015 after a rigorous process of consultation with different stakeholders including civil society organizations.

About 65% of the total endorsed budget went to the Social Sector amounting to PhP21.32 billion. The Economic Sector has a

proposed budget of PhP9.2 billion; the Infrastructure Sector has a budget of PhP1.4 billion; while the Development Administration Sector has a budget of PhP0.88 billion.

The biggest portion of the Social Sector budget is for the Department of Education (DepEd) amounting to PhP12.9 billion.


Comval builds school bldg in 22 days

MACO. Compostela Valley - What used to be constructed for 45 days if done by contractor, the 1 unit-4 classroom building was completed for just 22 days for the use of stu-dents in New Leyte National High school Annex. Thanks to the “bayanihan” spirit and public-private partnership

(PPP) espoused by the national government, the townsfolk has another reason to smile as they welcome guests and participants on the morning of July 28 in Brgy. Teresa, Maco, Compostela Valley. “Daku kaayo ning ikatabang sa among pag eskuwela, kung sauna, mahunong among klase kung


ting-ulan, karon dili na ug maka-concentrate nami kay di naman gud saba,” Jovito Dansigan Jr., a 4th Year HS student and Supreme Student Government (SSG) President, said. Dansigan describes their old school building where a makeshift tarpaulin serves as roof for an extended room where they hold classes. When it rains, the holes from the old canvass pours down on them and the students are forced to huddle in a dry corner. Noise is also a problem as the rooms are closely adjacent to each other. Now, the fully painted, concreted walls, landscaped and with complete school chairs, blackboard and electric lights stands conspicuously proud amidst the lush greenery that surrounds the barangay. Barangay Captain Felipe Obligana, School Principal Elena Paloma and the Department of Education-Comval expressed their deep gratitude saying it was an answered prayer as the shortage of classroom buildings are always a perennial problem and they are fortunate that the local governments in ComVal have been responsive to their needs. The construction is made possible through the “Kalinga sa Kabataan, Bayanihan sa Paaralan” (KKBSP) program initiated by the

provincial government of Comval under Gov. Arturo Uy. To date, more than 63 classrooms have already been built province-wide. It banks on “bayanihan” or massive volunteerism enjoining the government employees, teachers, students, parents, various sectors and the community to join in the labor work for free. Meanwhile, the cost of materials are donated through private partnership or from funds raised by the local government. For the Annex school, Apex Mining Company has donated P1M and P300,000 from the barangay for the material costs. Also present in the turnover are Vice Gov. Manuel Zamora, SP Members Ruwel Peter Gonzaga and Raul Timogtimog, Maco Vice Mayor AC Voltaire Rimando, Apex Mining representatives, DepEd-Comval, Department Heads of PLGU Comval, and other guests and local officials. In the afternoon, a medical outreach is conducted catering to the townsfolk with medical services including circumcision/“tuli,” medical check up, dental extraction, minor surgery and family planning commodities to be given as well as medicines and vitamins. (fe maestre/ids comval)


P176.4 million new public classrooms turned over to DavOr’s typhoon-hit areasMATI CITY, Davao Oriental – The Department of Education and De-partment of Public Works and Highways turned over an initial of 204 new classrooms to public el-ementary and high schools in the typhoon-hit towns of Baganga and Cateel. Teachers and students said these new classrooms symbolize new hope and new beginning for the education sector here that was badly battered after typhoon Pablo ‘washed out’ many of their school buildings in 2012. Alberto Cainghug, assistant engineer of the DPWH District Office, said the national government had earmarked a total of P558 million for the construction 590 classrooms required in the entire first district, which already include the 204 recently turned over classrooms. “These (new classrooms) answer the long-pressing problem on the shortage of schoolrooms in the disaster-hit areas,” said first district representative, Congressman Nelson Dayanghirang, who helped usher the release of funds for these new infrastructures. Implemented by the DPWH, the funding was sourced out from the Typhoon Pablo rehabilitation fund, which was coursed through DepEd. Amidst the massive rehabilitation

efforts of the government, Dayanghirang noted the significant increase in the number of schools at present compared to what schools had before the disaster. Aside from that, he also reported that these new buildings were constructed and designed to be typhoon-resistant and can sustain strong winds of up to 250 kph. “This modification is important as we realize schools are the primary refuge of families during calamities,” he said. Meanwhile, Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon congratulated the teachers and students headed by DepEd Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Feliciano Tamundong, Jr., saying that the new classrooms would hopefully give boost to the education sector. Malanyaon commended the efforts of the national and local government, along with the agencies involved for their quick interventions in the rehabilitation of schools, which is also consistent to the province’s Building Back Better Agenda. Malanyaon said these developments have been attributed to the convergence of all agencies, which are complementing each other’s resources in order to accomplish more in a very short period of time. (PIO-DO/K. Deloso/CLC, PIA-11)


DREAM launched in MaitumMAITUM, Sarangani - Dr. Donna Panes, assistant schools division superintendent, gives her message during the MOA-signing for Senior High School Early implementation between Malalag National High School and Edenton Mission College, Inc. and launching of DREAM Program (School in a garden Developing Realistic Environment Agripreneurial Malalag) cum Nutrition Month culmination and GPTA/HPTA Induction Friday, July 25. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- The Department of Agriculture in SOCCSKSARGEN Region (DA 12) is currently developing over 200 hect-ares of idle lands in President Roxas, North Cotabato into crop produc-tion areas, a report from the agency said.

200 hectares of idle lands in North Cotabato turned productiveBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

DA 12 Regional Executive Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan said these unproductive lands are being turned into productive farms in line with the efforts to expand the region’s agricultural production area.

Director Datukan said least 100 hectare are being planted to upland rice Dinorado and another 100 hectares to open-pollinated variety (OPV) white corn. These farms are located in remote barangays of Salat, Sarayan and Kisupaan in the said municipality.

Activities in the mentioned areas are carried out in accordance with the Development of Idle Lands Project recently launched by DA to utilize unused and unproductive lands in the region to promote the national government’s Food Staples Self-sufficiency Program (FSSP), Datukan said

The project is being implemented in partnership with the local governments and other national agencies.

She disclosed that the regional office is targeting to develop at least 500 hectares of idle lands

in the entire region through the production of white corn, cassava, vegetables, and other crops that suit a particular area.

In a recent farmers’ field day Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer for Cotabato Province Esmael Intao reported that corn farmers in adjacent Arakan Valley town involved earlier in the project have already harvested 60 hectares of OPV white corn, recording an average yield of 2.3 tons per hectare.

These farmers have already delivered 750 bags of corn-on-cobs to a village type corn-on-cob drying facility in their area, he said.

Meanwhile, upland rice farmer cooperators are expected to harvest in the coming weeks the Dinorado palay they planted on adaptability trial of upland variety using inorganic fertilizer.

In response to the identification of Baragay Salat as a project area, Chairman Abdila Macaalay expressed gratitude for the government assistance that could help his constituents survive economic difficulties.


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- A church-based academic institute here has organized 4-H Club as a major support to their students, par-ticularly those taking agriculture-related courses.

Meanwhile, Manobo Tribal Chieftain Datu Acosta Sundungan described the project as a big help not just for the Muslim and Christian farmers in the area but also for the indigenous people in the remote areas in the region.

Under the project DA 12 provides agricultural inputs, and planting materials to help farmers

start their respective agricultural activities.

DA 12 is also set to provide more assistance such as farm machineries and livestock raising projects as additional livelihood to farmer cooperators. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12 with report from EAPasaol-DA 12)

School in Koronadal City forms 4-H Club for agri studentsBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

Maria Victoria Macrohon, college dean of King’s College of Marbel Incorporated (KCMI), said the school’s management has decided to push for the establishment of the 4-H Club KCMI chapter especially to cater to education and training need of their students in the Bachelor of Arts in Agricultural Technology (BAT) offering.

“This school year, we have around 800 students and at least 100 of them are taking agriculture-related courses,” Macrohon said at the college’s acquaintance party at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center last week.

DA 12 Regional Information Officer Nelly Ylanan who represented Regional Executive Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan in the event

inducted the newly-elected officers of 4-H Club KCMI, namely: Jehziel Quinoviva, president; Jeo Cris Aman, vice-president; Maruwah Baito, secretary; Mary Lou Fadrigo, treasurer; Jumar Leal, auditor; Dexter Rabulan, public information officer; Allan Belgera and Lovelimie Lamasan, business managers.

In her message, Ylanan conveyed the acknowledgment of the DA 12 management to KCMI’s Supreme Student Government (SSG) for inviting DA to be a part of their activity.

The said regional official underscored the significant contributions of young individuals in helping the government in achieving food staples self-sufficiency.

“DA is conducting Farm Youth


KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato — Villages of Nicaan in Libungan town and Ugpay in Mlang , recently benefited from the medical and dental services of the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) of North Cotabato.

Congress which aims to convene all members of the 4-H Club from barangay to national levels,” Ylanan said.

Through DA’s Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), 4-H clubs from all over the country could avail of developmental projects such as vegetable production, organic fertilizer production, livestock and poultry raising, among others, as long as they have submitted project proposals.

Moreover, under DA’s Young Filipino Farmers’ Training Program (YFFTP), the country has been sent young farmers to study abroad.

In fact, this year, three 4-H Club members from SOCCSKSARGEN Region are currently in Japan

undergoing training courses to learn modern technologies in agriculture.

The four YFFTP scholars from the region are Romy James of Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat; Gil Araña of Tantangan, South Cotabato; and Raymart Manong of Antipas, North Cotabato.

“KMCI was a recipient of organic fertilizer production project from DA 12’s Organic Agriculture Program,” Ylanan reported.

She also challenged the newly-established 4-H Club to also submit proposals on projects that they want to avail from DA. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12 with report from LMSalvo-DA 12)

2 more villages benefit from North Cotabato LGU’s medical-dental outreachBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

Eva C. Rabaya, head of the IPHO, noted that the two separate activities were part of the continuing medical and dental outreach their office is doing in providing the people with basic health services.

In Barangay Nicaan, 396 individuals availed of free check up, 62 individuals were provided with free tooth examination and extraction while 20

young boys were circumcised.On the other hand, in Barangay

Ugpay, the team was able to serve 359 individuals with free medical checkup, 52 free tooth examination and extraction and five in circumcisicion.

Rabaya said that during the activity in Libungan, the IPHO partnered with the doctors of Aleosan and Alamada as well as with the doctors of the Rural


Health Units (RHUs) of Midsayap, Libungan and Pigcawayan.

They were joined by a representative from the Department of Education-Cotabato Division and the North Cotabato Dental Society.

“Our team was also assisted by the 40th and 6th infantry battalions of the Philippine Army, the pharmacist of the IPHO and Nicaan’s Barangay Health Workers (BHWs),” Rabaya stated.

Meanwhile in M’lang, the doctors who performed medical services were from the Fr. Tulio Favali Community Hospital in Tulunan and from the M’lang District Hospital.

Also dentists and pharmacists of the IPHO, the 6th IB and the Ugpay’s BHWs joined the activity.

With the two medical and dental outreaches, Barangay Chairman Rey G. Dimasuay of Nicaan and Barangay Chairman Rogelio R. Anticristo of Ugpay both extended their appreciation for the provincial government in providing accessible health services to every village in the province of North Cotabato.

On the other hand, Rabaya emphasized that the provincial government through its ‘Serbisyong Totoo’ advocacy aims to conduct more outreaches in various barangays in the days to come. (SJDuerme-PIA12/JSta.Cruz-N. Cotabato Provincial Government)


NorMin banana stakeholders craft 2015 planby Vanessa Mae S. SIano

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) gathered the banana growers, farmers, processors and agricultural technicians on July 15 throughout the region to set the direction of the industry for 2015.

To guide them on the possible interventions they can benefit from the DA, they were presented with

the programs and projects for the period under the High Value Crops Development Program (DA-HVCDP).

http://investphilippines.org/siliconvalley/news/agrinurture-heads-off-asean-integration-expands-banana-farms-in-philippines-indonesia/


PMA ‘Matikas’ class of 1983 leads the Army in Mindanao by 4ID

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City - All the four infantry divisions of Philippine Army in Mindanao are now being led by Generals belonging to Philippine Military Academy Matikas class of 1983.

The 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division based at Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur which is in-charge of the western portion of Mindanao is under the command of BGen Gerry Barrientos who just took his post as the new division commander last July 2, 2014. Sixth Infantry (Kampilan) Division currently based at Camp BGen Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindao is under BGen Edmundo

Pangilinan who was designated as division commander last May 26, 2014 and in-charge in central part of Mindanao. Fourth Infantry (Diamond) Division based in Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City under the leadership of MGen Ricardo R Visaya is continuously winning the peace in northern Mindanao since his designation last April 26, 2013. For the 10th Infantry (Agila)

The group crafted their plan which will be their basis on the steps they will take and the resources to tap in order to boost the industry’s productivity and profitability. The plan is composed of the projects and interventions to increase the productivity; ensure the quality and safety in postharvest handling and processing; and marketing of banana and its by-products. It will be endorsed to the DA supported by project proposals which will be subject for evaluation and validation. Furthermore, Banana Industry Development Association (BIDA)

will also continue collaborating with other service providers such as government agencies, non-government organizations and the public sector in order to realize their plans for the development of the industry. The banana stakeholders in the region headed by Engr. Ranul Y. Sarmiento, president of BIDA looks forward to make the industry more competitive as the ASEAN Community Economic Integration will take place in 2015.


PMA ‘Matikas’ class of 1983 leads the Army in Mindanao

Division based at Camp Gen Yan Sr., barangay Tuboran, Mawab, Compostela Valley under the leadership of MGen Eduardo M Año who was newly installed as division commander on July 25, 2014 and is now securing the South-eastern part of Mindanao. MGen Año said as he steps as a new 10ID commander this month, “Better strides towards a peaceful Mindanao will be undertaken.” Prior to his designation as the division commander of 10ID, MGen Año is the chief of Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP). A seasoned-officer, whose character; service reputation; military records; and his love for his countrymen are the reasons why the Armed Force of the Philippines (AFP)

chose him to hold the commander’s position. Meanwhile, MGen Visaya said, “Now that three of my classmates are now leading the other three divisions here in Mindanao, there will be much easier, closer and faster coordination regarding military operations here in Mindanao and this will lead to a more effective conduct of Internal Security Operations.” Since the implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” in 2010, these four divisions guarding the entire Mindanao is currently marching to continue winning the peace as they have established the Bayanihan spirit in its respective area of responsibilities.

Solons back police in keeping Oro’s peace, orderby CdeOSP

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The city council of Cagayan de Oro expressed full support to the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) in efforts to maintain the city’s peace and order situation.

This, in the wake of robbery cases in the city such as the SM heist on Tuesday, at the E-games along JR Borja last July 21, and other incidents. Two more incidents were reported this morning, said Councilor Alden Bacal.

According to councilor Ramon Tabor, chair of the committee on police, fire and public safety, there are also threats in relation to the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, which will affect the peace and order


situation in Mindanao. He reiterated the call to strengthen police visibility, conduct random checkpoints and undertake other measures especially during the upcoming city fiesta. He said barangay police should also be tapped to work with the COCPO in their respective areas of jurisdiction. Tabor cited that outposts, which are well lighted and provided with proper communication and mobile facilities should be established. The committee asked the COCPO to submit its requests for vehicles and other needs for a more effective peace and order campaign in the city. “We extend full support. We hope you do your job as expected by

the people. Do the best you can,” councilor Tabor added.UPDATES The committee was updated on the status of investigations conducted in relation to the robbery incidents, amok incident at Agora and the arrest of a suspect believed to be responsible for some robbery incidents in the city, among others. Members of the committee held an executive session with police officials this morning to discuss this and other concerns. Councilors Alden Bacal, Roger Abaday, Enrico Salcedo and Teodulfo Lao were present during the meeting.


PAGADIAN CITY – Zamboanga del Sur Vice Governor Juan Regala encouraged the officers in the Civil-Military Operations (CMO) units to establish rapport with the stakeholders.

Zambo Sur vice guv urges CMO officers to foster good relations with stakeholders

In the recently concluded two-day Public Affairs Seminar/Workshop of Western Mindanao-based CMOs held at Farmers Haven at Barangay Dao here, Regala who served as guest of honor and speaker said

“by fostering good relations with stakeholders, the programs of the Philipine Army will be successfully implemented.” Speaking before the group of 60 CMOs, Regala said the CMOs

By Gideon C. Corgue


which he considered advisers of the commanding general and their respective commanding officers, should learn to effectively practice public affairs in their respective units. Regala, who was then the commanding officer of 1st Pyschological Operations Unit of 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division Headquarters in 1989 before entering politics, shared his personal experiences with the participants to help them effectively perform their duties and responsibilities. “You need to cultivate and foster good felationship with your stakeholders,” Regala urged adding that “public affairs involves harmonious and friendly relationship with the stakeholders.” “Paano ka magiging epektibo na CMO officer kung hindi ka magpapakita ng mga tao at i-convince sila sa mga magagandang programa ng gobyerno?” said Regala. (How can you be an effective CMO officer if you do not show to the people and convince them of the good programs of the government?)

Regala said CMO officers should also establish good relationship with the media, saying that media play a very important role in our society. “During my incumbency as CMO officer, I worked closely with the media that is why I gained active support from them. All the accomplishments of Tabak were published in the newspapers and aired over the radio and television during my time,” Regala proudly said. “As CMO officer you should learn to observe the ‘MUST’ in public affairs. You must be sincere, respectful and considerate in serving the people, learn their own dialect, and know how to socially mingle with them,” Regala stressed. Regala admitted that he didn’t have any formal schooling in public affairs but the things that he shared with them was based on his personal experiences during his stint as CMO officer. Regala served as member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in three consecutive terms and currently on his second term as vice governor.


In a media briefing held here recently during the 5th CARPER anniversary, Adju also told the press that his office has been distributing land titles to agrarian reform beneficiaries involving government-owned lands. He, however, admitted to having encountered some problems in the distribution of land titles involving privately owned lands. Adju also apprised the local media of the implementation of the multi-million ARCP-II projects funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

PARPO I Rizzel Villanueva said that counter-parting scheme “has produced a positive impact in the project implementation, as it gives the local government unit (LGU) the sense of value for its equity, like what had been done by local leaderships of the province and Dipolog City.” He cited the support extended by the provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte and the city government of Dipolog to the beneficiaries resulting in the successful implementaiton of DAR programs in the province.

DAR-Zambo Norte celebrates 5th CARPER anniversaryBy Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY – “The Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program with Extension and Reform, popularly known as ‘CARPER LAW’ has ended but the Department of Agrarian (DAR) will continue its operation as lots has yet to be done to fulfill its responsibility to the Filipino people,” according to Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Mohammad Dassan Adju.


This was disclosed by the NGCP in its recently concluded “Power 102” attended by local media practitioners here. Pursuant to NGCP’s 2013 Transmission Development Plan, the company is going to establish a unified Philippine Grid by 2018, a 10-year program for expansion reinforcement and rehabilitation of the transmission system. “There’s an overwhelming energy generation in Mindanao and in coming years Mindanao will be going to supply power to Luzon and Visayas,” Fernando S. Javier, head of the Mindanao Transmission Planning Division disclosed. “The western route is the export corridor of Mindanao,” Javier

added. Meanwhile, he said, this project has to undergo first a feasibility study to determine whether “the covered area is viable for the transmission of electricity from one island to another especially when their cables will pass through the ocean floors.” The main project drivers of NGCP are the load growth, generator entry, congestion-alleviation, system reliability, power quality and island interconnection. Based on Department of Energy’s list of Private Sector Initiated Power Projects, the total conventional and re-based plants proposed in Mindanao for 2014-2020 is 4,443 MW.

DIPOLOG CITY – The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) revealed that it is planning to build Visayas-Mindanao Interconnection Project passing Negros Oriental in the Visayas to Zamboanga del Norte in Mindanao.

NGCP to establish Visayas-Mindanao interconnection project By Mary May A. Abellon

NGCP to establish Visayas-Mindanao interconnection project

Documents

One Mindanao - July 31, 2014