One Mindanao - May 4, 2015

EDITORIAL ADVISERS

SEC. SONNY B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information Agency

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

EFREN F. ELBANBUENACluster Head, Southern, Western and Central MindanaoRegional Director, PIA Region XI

MANAGING EDITOR ABNER M. CAGACluster Head, Northern & Northeastern MindanaoRegional Director - PIA Caraga Region

REGIONAL DESK EDITORS FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IX

ALMA L. TINGCANG, PIA Region IX ELAINE O. RATUNIL, PIA Region X RUDOLPH IAN G. ALAMA, PIA Region XI DANNY E. DOGUILES, PIA Region XII FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region

COPY EDITORS

FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga Region

SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST

GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)

P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038Cellphone no. 0919-9994516E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]: www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA WesMin Info BlizTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIAIX

SOCCSKSARGEN Region

Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St.Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506Telephone no. (083) 520-0249Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

Northern Mindanao

Graces’ Building, Antonio Luna StreetCagayan de Oro City 9000Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594Telefax no. (08822) 72-66-83Cellphone no. 0928-5204305, 0917-3084969E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]: www.pia-10.blogspot.com Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)

J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phWebsite: www.piacaraga.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur, Pia Dinagat Islands Power FM - CaragaTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)

Ground Floor Kanto Motors Bldg.,Quimpo Blvd., New MatinaDavao City 8000Telephone no. (082) 297-0991 / 301-8580Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 / 304-2044Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950E-mail: [email protected]

LAYOUT ARTISTS

VICTORIANO B. VILLACRUZ, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region X

ZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region X

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

NOEMI B. EDAGARegional Director, PIA Region IX

THELMA B. OLIVERRegional Director, PIA Region X

OLIVIA T. SUDARIARegional Director, PIA Region XII

EDITORIAL BOARD

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESOne Mindanao

CONTENTS

58 farmers receive ducks from NorthCot LGU

DOST chief visits Siargao Island

Search for SME rising star is on in Zambo. Norte

DOLE, TIPC lead labor day celebration in Pagadian City

12

1617

2021

33

9 police officers, personnel receive awards for accomplishment vs illegal drugs

NAPC urges House to pass Coco Farmer’s Trust Fund Bill

Tagum City Mayor assures peace and order during Palaro

DOLE: SurSur jail guards victimized by NPA atrocities to get aid from ECC

DTI turns-over ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’ for Cabanglasan public market

Normalization to develop unity of communities in Bangsamoro

By: John Glenn A. Platil

By: Greg Tataro Jr.

By: Jetzyl Delgado

By: Noel B. Najarro

10

By: Shahana Joy E.Duerme

32

28By: Mary May A. Abellon

By: Claro A. Lanipa

By: Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

By: Eriberto A. Taban-ud, Jr.

Cover Story

CARAGA

WESTERN

NORTHERN

INFOCUS

SOCCSKSARGEN

SOUTHERN

NATIONAL

25 Severe heat a challenge for Palaro athletes By: Noel Baguio

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12

1419

23

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4 MAY 4, 2015One Mindanao

Cover Story

Nine police commissioned officers led by a colonel and non-commissioned officers of a southern city police station of the region, were awarded on Monday morning for their significant role in the accomplishment of the campaign against illegal drugs in their area of responsibility.

9 police officers, personnel receive awards for accomplishment vs illegal drugsBy: Noel B. Najarro

5MAY 4, 2015 One Mindanao

Nine police commissioned officers led by a colonel and non-commissioned officers of a southern city police station of the region, were awarded on Monday morning for their significant role in the accomplishment of the campaign against illegal drugs in their area of responsibility.

9 police officers, personnel receive awards for accomplishment vs illegal drugs


The awarding ceremony was among the highlights during the Monday flag-raising rites of Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez, the regional headquarters of the Police Regional Office 13. The awardees were PSupt. Reynante N. Sibayton, chief of the Bayugan City Police Station, who received a “Medalya Ng Kagalingan” (PNP Merit Medal) for the successful implementation of search warrant by the joint personnel of the Bayugan City Police and the 13th Regional Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit (13 RCIDU). The joint police operation resulted to the arrest of Asraf Tomarampong Ampaso on April 11, 2015 at Purok 2B,

Buri St., Brgy. Taglatawan of the said city. During the raid a sizable volume of “shabu” estimated to weigh 200 grams amounting to P2,360,000.00 was confiscated. Awarded together with Supt. Sibayton for the same medal were PCInsp. Gregorio Cuevas and PO2 Russel M. Serafina.

The recipients of the “Medalya Ng Papuri” (PNP Commendation Medal) was led by PInsp. Joselito F. Delos Santos for the implementation of Search Warrant No. 2015-81 leading to the arrest of Eleazar L. Bahian on April 10, 2015 at Purok 2C, Brgy. Taglatawan and confiscation of 11 plastic sachets


containing suspected drugs with estimated weight of 1.5 grams with total market value of P17,700.00; assorted drug paraphernalia, a homemade .3516 Caliber revolver, 2 fragmentation grenades and three rifle grenades. Receiving the same medal with Insp. Delos Santos were PO3 Mirofel C. Romano and PO1 Miguel N. Ellaso.

Another recipients of “Medalya Ng Papuri” were led by PInsp. Ian Kidd C. Eblahan for the implementation of Search Warrant No. 2015-82 leading to the arrest of Dylan Sala Caberte on April 10, 2015 at Purok 10,

Brgy. Taglatawan of the said city. Seventeen plastic sachets containing suspected shabu with estimated weight of 3.5 grams with a total value of P41,300.00, assorted drug paraphernalia and a unit of Caliber .38 revolver with ammunition. Awarded together with Insp. Eblahan were SPO2 Melvin A. Dandasan and PO1 Taasha Mae Leah C. Ocio.

The awards were pinned to the recipients by PCSupt. Alexander C. Ignacio, PNP Acting Director for Plans, PCSupt. Roberto Q. Soriano, PNP EOD/ K-9 Management Office and PCSupt. David Y. Ombao, Caraga PNP chief.


Palace lauds Manny Pacquiao despite losing to Floyd Mayweather, Jr.

MANILA - The Palace on Sunday lauded Manny Pacquiao despite losing the Welterweight belt to American boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr., in a boxing match in Las Vegas, Nevada. “Filipinos can hold their heads up high: our national pride, Congressman Manny Pacquiao, did us all proud when he stood his ground against one of the

best boxers of our time, Floyd Mayweather,” said Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr.


Coloma also reiterated President Benigno Aquino III’s thanks to Pacquiao “for serving as an inspiration to every Filipino in overcoming the daily challenges in the pursuit of a better life and future.”

“We will continue to be proud that we have a People’s Champ in Manny Pacquiao who exemplifies skill, strength and courage. He is a worthy exemplar that the Filipino is able to compete in the global arena --- for as long as there is a level playing field,”.

“Hopefully, Manny may now

be able to devote more time with his family and that he is able to maintain good health that will serve him in good stead in all his future endeavors,” Coloma addded.

Mayweather had beaten Pacquiao after 12 rounds of boxing at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. All three judges were unanimous in giving Mayweather higher points with the score of: 118-110, 116-112, 116-112.

The unbeaten Mayweather now have a record of 48 wins, while Pacquiao now had 57 wins and six losses.

The fight is an unification of the World Boxing Association, World Boxing Council, and World Boxing Organization Welterweight belt.(PCOO/ PND (ag)


NAPC urges House to pass Coco Farmer’s Trust Fund Bill

QUEZON CITY - As sessions in Congress resumes today, the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) urged the House of Representatives to speed up the passage of the Coconut Farmer’s Trust Fund Bill. NAPC Secretary Joel Rocamora has always been firm about the Commission’s stand on the issue, saying that the bill will ensure the coco levy fund “is for

the farmers and should be used for the development of their industry and to uplift them from poverty.”


Meanwhile, NAPC Farmers Sectoral Council member, Eduardo Mora, said that the council is supporting and pushing for the passing of House Bill No. 5629 recently filed by Representatives Josepine Sato, Kaka-Bag-ao, Teddy Brawner Baguilat Jr., Leni Robredo, Ibarra Gutierrez, Anthony Bravo, Cresente Paez, Vicente Alcala, Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, Jim Hataman-Salliman, Sherwin Tugna, and Peter Unabia.

“Naaayon ang bill na ito sa aming nais, sa aming hinapag na Initiative Bill sa House of Representatives at sa Senado,” Mora said. (This bill filed by

our lawmakers agrees with the Initiative Bill that we filed in the House of Representatives and in the Senate).

Mora explained that the amount is very important for them farmers as it will be used as a perpetual trust fund, principally for the poor farmers.

In addition, Mora expressed that they are also pushing for NAPC to be part of the Trust Fund Committee. “Hindi pwedeng isantabi ang NAPC dahil sa ahensyang ito kami nakapaloob. Isa ang NAPC sa mga patuloy na tumutulong at walang sawang nakikinig sa aming hinaing.” (We cannot dismiss NAPC because we are part of it. NAPC is one of the agencies that have continuously supported us and has never tired in addressing our needs). (NAPC)


Tagum City Mayor assures peace and order during Palaro

TAGUM CITY - With the official kick-off of the 2015 Palarong Pambansa, Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon assured that peace

and order are among the areas that the local government

is prioritizing in hosting this year’s national sporting event.

The Tagum City Government in a statement said it already deployed a three-shift security composed of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Security Management Office (SMO) and Traffic Management Office (TMO) personnel in the billeting areas to ensure the safety of the

delegates, and supported by the force multipliers and barangay tanods on foot patrol.

Further, Tagum Water District already assigned two pumping stations as the water source distributed in all the billeting sites. Other water sources

By: Jetzyl Delgado


identified include the city motorpool, slaughterhouse and the Visayan Village Tagum Rural Waterworks and Multi-Purpose Cooperative (VITRUASCO). The billeting sites for the regional delegations and technical officials were also repaired and repainted and provided with mattresses, electric fans and kitchens, utilizing the more or less P14.1 million budget from Tagum City’s General Fund and Special Education Fund. Mayor Rellon said it was worth investing in the project because of its long-term benefits. As a cooperating local government unit, Tagum City is host to eighteen (18) billeting schools and twelve (12) playing venues. “We can never be perfect but

I’m happy to know of feedbacks this early while the Palaro is not yet full-blown,” said Mayor Rellon. As the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) Chairperson, Mayor Rellon also directed the activation of the Incident Command Post on Blue Alert Status on April 26 – May 11, 2015 in response to the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) XI Memorandum No. 9, s-2015 issued by Regional Director Loreto G Rirao. The Palarong Pambansa is an annual multi-sports event involving student-athletes from the 17 regions of the Philippines and organized by the Department of Education.

DOLE awards Kabuhayan starter kits at Labor Day in Isabela City By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) here led on Friday the 113th Labor Day celebration with the awarding of P307,667 worth of Kabuhayan Starter Kits to some 50 beneficiaries.


The beneficiaries, coming from the city’s 20 barangays, received livelihood implements, equipment and start up goods and consumables for food processing and native snacks preparation, sewing and cosmetology, carpentry, and vulcanizing and welding.

Out of the 50 beneficiaries, about half of them turned up for the turnover. The rest of the beneficiaries, however, could still claim their starter kits anytime from the DOLE office.

DOLE-Isabela chief Ian A. Lahi said in an interview that the agency is planning to conduct a gender equality session within the labor month since most of the starter kits beneficiaries are women.

Lahi reminded the workers that aside from looking after their own welfare, they should look after the condition of their employers “in order to achieve a harmonious relationship at the workplace. The need for labor-management cooperation is a must.”

He revealed that when he assumed office last February, there were only three reported violations on labor standards and were already resolved.

The agency also plans to conduct in-plant labor standard orientation and education soon so that the workers will be aware of

their rights including the correct compensation they should be receiving.

Moreover, DOLE also reactivated the dormant Tripartite Industrial Peace Council of the city to help the agency in its cause, especially in strengthening the relationship between labor and management and likewise for the management to comply with general labor standards, including work safety and health standards.

Lahi also revealed that the agency has allocated some P800 thousand of the Bottoms-Up Budgeting (BUB) mechanism to help the out-of-school youths of Isabela City. He said that the budget is ready and that the agency is already in the process of preparing the proposal to be submitted to the regional office for approval. The Nagdilaab Foundation was identified as possible conduit of the said project.

Prior to the turnover of starter kits, a cleanup drive at selected main thoroughfares of the city was conducted involving some 100 beneficiaries of the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) and a number of starter kits recpients, the labor group of the Isabela port, the police, and some private individuals.

Lahi also disclosed that DOLE would support over 500


SPES beneficiaries in the city this year. The program has been implemented since 1994 and has produced career professionals and successful individuals. In fact, according to DOLE, Isabela

City Mayor Cherrylyn Santos-Akbar was one of the SPES babies.

This year’s Labor Day theme is “Disenteng trabaho at kabuhayan, alay natin sa bayan.”

DIPOLOG CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has announced during the 1st Provincial Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council (PMSMEDC) meeting held recently at Grandma’s Best here that the search for the SME Rising Star Award is now open for nomination.

Search for SME rising star is on in Zambo. NorteBy Mary May A. Abellon

This award will be conferred to outstanding MSMEs in the province with one awardee from each enterprise. Accordingly, the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) represent the 99.6 percent of all businesses in the country, employing 61.2 percent of the total labor force. SME Star Program aims to support and give due recognition to outstanding MSMEs which persevere to improve their growth both in domestic and foreign markets. Business enterprises engaged in manufacturing, agri-business, services and the creative industries can be nominated for the said awards by any government agency and/or private organization. Moreover, MSMEs may also submit self-nominations to the provincial MSMED Council

through the DTI-Provincial Office, which serves as secretariat of PMSMEDC. Any nominee must have an asset size of not more than P100 million at the time of nomination and be duly registered with appropriate government agencies. Other criteria would be the non-derogatory record, operation for at least three years and preferably has to be in operation for not more than four years of as a rising star awardee. The selection of winners shall be based on growth in sales, in employment, in investment and good practices shall be noted.Meanwhile, there will also be an SME Star Elite Award for the regional level and SME Star Presidential Award on the national level.


To highlight the celebration, over P800 thousand DOLE’s Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP) livelihood funds and more than P700 thousand worth of kabuhayan starter kits were turned- over by DOLE-Zamboanga del Sur field Office officer-in-charge Camilo Encilla Jr. to four people’s organization in the province and 63 parents of child labor workers in this city.

In his welcome remarks, TIPC vice chairman Levi Cabatcha said “it is in this celebration that we give honor to our workers either white-collar job, professionals,

skilled workers and all other types of laborers to include the kasambahay (household help) workers.”

“We consider them the living heroes, for they are the backbone of our society in the upliftment of our socio-economic development and progress,” Cabatcha emphasized.

“In other words, they are our partners in economic growth and stability in order to become globally competitive in terms of manpower and production in the near future,” he added.

Meanwhile, TIPC chairman

PAGADIAN CITY – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Zamboanga del Sur Field Office in coordination with the Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC) spearheaded the observance of Labor Day last Friday, May 1, at the city’s covered court here.

DOLE, TIPC lead labor day celebration in Pagadian CityBy Claro A. Lanipa


Mayor Romeo Pulmones said in his message as read by Public Employment Service Officer (PESO) Manager Virginia Almerol that “with the prevailing economic uncertainties, his administration is finding ways and strategies with regards to providing employment and livelihood for our constituents.”

“Employment and livelihood opportunities for the city’s unemployed sector is one of the top priorities of this administration since I assumed office in 2013,” Pulmones stressed.

“We want jobs wherein workers can grow as persons and develop positive attitudes and habits in the context of this year’s theme - Disenteng Trabaho at kabuhayan Alay Natin sa Bayan,” the mayor said.

On the other hand, 17 other parents/fishermen of child workers in barangay Dumagoc here were also given one pumpboat worth P10 thousand each. Other recipients were given complete sets of kitchen utensils and carpentry tools for them to start their own livelihood.

CDO hosts Diskwento Caravan 2015

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Twenty-two booths from different manufacturers and distributors of basic goods and commodities has been set-up for the Diskwento Caravan 2015 with a theme “Presyong Panalo ang Empleyado” on April 29-30 at Gaston Park, Cagayan de Oro City.

By: Michelle Joy T. Gamon

D i s k w e n t o Caravan aims to alleviate the burdens of consumers by bringing them the basic goods and prime commodities at discounted prices. Aside from rice, fruits and vegetables

different products coming from different provinces were also presented during the Caravan such as bottled bangus, Salted burnay, Palapa with tuna, anchovies and


dried squid. These products can be bought exclusively at Lanao areas but due to the said event they were able to sell it here in CDO at lower prices. “Our main purpose of attending this caravan is we are promoting the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) assisted value products in the five provinces of Region 10 from Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, Bukidnon and Lanao areas,” BFAR Officer In Charge of Post-harvest and Marketing Division Mary Ansale Tac-an said. Thus, Department of Trade

and Industry (DTI) is responsible for the monetary and snacks of the different distributers said by DTI specialist, Consumer Welfare Division, Assistant Jill Marie S. Tadlas. Consumers are encouraged to attend and take advantage of this two-day annual Diskwento Caravan Activity initiated by DTI, Regional Tripartite and Wage Productivity Board (RTWPB), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and other business sectors in Northern Mindanao.

DTI turns-over ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’ for Cabanglasan public market

CABANGLASAN, Bukidnon – Cabanglasan town recently received one unit weighing scale and one unit of steel cage under the “Timbangan ng Bayan” project of the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI).

DTI provincial director Ermedio Abang said the “Timbangan (weighing scale)” is a hanging open type with a 15 kilogram x 50 gram dial. The steel cage has 610 millimeter (mm) x 610 mm x 1,829 mm dimension.

Mayor Renante Inocando immediately entrusted the units to Local Economic Enterprise Office (LEEO) and installed the steel cage with the weighing scale inside the public market. The “Timbangan ng Bayan,”

by Eriberto A. Taban-ud, Jr.


locked inside the cage, will be opened every during market hours. Authorized personnel of LEEO will be safeguarding it, the mayor said. The project’s main objective is to provide the buying public an effective means of checking the accuracy of the weights and quantity of the goods they are buying. It will also discourage dishonest vendors to commit any irregularity. Mayor Inocando hopes for the widest information dissemination and consumer

participation because the launching and turnover rites was conducted during a “tabo (market day),” in which consumers from all barangays of Cabanglasan converged at the Poblacion. He urged the buying public to counter check the accuracy of the weight of goods they buy from the market—through the ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’—to ensure that they are buying the worth of their money with the right weight of the products sold in town.

Normalization to develop unity of communities in BangsamoroCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The normalization process that aims to establish peace and security of communities in Bangsamoro has the socio-economic development as one of its components.

The socio-economic development is agreed by both the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to “intensify development efforts for the rehabilitation, reconstruction and development of the Bangsamoro, and institute programs to address the needs

of Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Force (BIAF) members, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and poverty-stricken communities.” Programs under this component will target communities in Bangsamoro to strengthen their unity by reinforcing social cohesion.


A decommissioning for BIAF members to assess their needs and skills shall also be undertaken by both Parties. This is also to develop a responsive program that addresses their needs and that of their communities. A trust fund shall be also established to assist the normalization process. This can attract multi-donor country support. Other components

of the normalization include security aspect which deals with the new police system in the communities in Bangsamoro, and the transitional justice and reconciliation which tackles the “legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, correct historical injustices, and address human rights violations.” (PIA-10)


Davao hospital named after NFL star formally opens

DAVAO CITY- A pediat-ric orthopedics hospital named after NFL (Na-tional Football League) star Tim Tebow formal-ly opened last Friday (May 1). The Tebow CURE hospital is a $3.5-mil-lion medical facility that provides charitable treat-ment to children with conditions like knock knees, bowed legs and

neglected club-foot. The facil-ity also provides competitively priced orthopedic consultations and surgery for adults in need of total join replacements or arthroscopic surgery. Treatment for sports injuries and spine conditions can also be done in the hospital located along JP Laurel Avenue in Davao City. The hospital was built and op-erated by CURE International with

the support of donors like the Tim Tebow Foun-dation and the Sacred Harvest Foundation. “I am thrilled to be able to say the Tebow CURE Hospital is offi-cially open, in this place we will share the love of Jesus and bring physical healing to children and families who desperately needed it.” Dale Branter


president and CEO of CURE Interna-tional said in his speech. CURE International is a Chris-tian healthcare network that oper-ates charitable hospitals and health programs in 30 countries worldwide. The Tebow CURE hospital is their first hospital in Southeast Asia. Tim Tebow Foundation aims to provide faith, hope and love to chil-dren with life-threatening diseases. It was named after its donor, Ameri-can football star Tim Tebow who was born in this country to missionary parents. “The Tim Tebow Foundation is so honored to be working with CURE Internatioanal and so many incred-ible donors this hospital a reality,” says Erik Dellenback, executive di-rector of the Tim Tebow Foundation. The hospital features a Timmy’s playroom, a special playing area for children patients. Aside from toys, the room also features Tim Tebow’s football memorabilia, it is the first Tebow playroom to open outside of the United States. The dedication ceremony was graced by representatives from the Department of Health led by As-sistant Secretary Pauline Obial and regional director Abdullah Dumama, Davao City administrator Melchor Quitain (representing Mayor Rodrigo Duterte), Dale Bratner, Erick Dellen-back along with the members of the Tebow family. Tim Tebow was originally sched-uled to attend the blessing but was recently signed up by Philadelphia

Eagles, a NFL team. The hospital was first envi-sioned in 2009, construction began in 2012 and received its license in November 2014, the first surgery in the hospital was conducted in De-cember 2014. (PIA/RG Alama)


Severe heat a challenge for Palaro ath-letes

DAVAO DEL NORTE – Intense heat and humidity pose a major chal-lenge for the athletes who will slug it out in the Palarong Pam-bansa 2015. Provincial Health Officer Dr. Agapito Hornido, head of the Palaro Medical Team, said the young play-ers are at risk in high temperatures, as they push themselves harder to increase their chances of clinching a medal at the country’s largest sport-ing event. Athough Davao del Norte expe-rienced moderate rains Friday after-noon due to localized thunderstorms, the province posted an average heat index of 37 degree Celsius for the past days, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Manage-ment Division. However, Hornido assured they are all geared up to respond to heat exhaustion and stroke, among other medical emergencies, when hostili-ties start on May 3, 2015. “We are ready for any emergen-cy,” Hornido assured, citing the tip top preparedness of the more than 400 strong members of the medical team. The opening ceremonies of the national games was moved to May 4 to give the players chance to see the Pacquiao-Mayweather megafight in an outdoor viewing party at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism

Complex. Aware of the potential effects of the hot weather on the athletes, the Department of Education has contin-ued to ban some outdoor sports from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. so the athletes would not suffer from heat stroke under the scorching summer sun. Hornido said they have already attended to dozens of athletes, with most of them showing signs of heat exhaustion. Some even fainted dur-ing intense training. He revealed the medical team is bolstered up by the 21-bed Palaro Medical Operations Center (MOC), which offers free consultation, medi-cines, minor treatment, ECG, physio-therapy, dental and other services. The weeklong Olympics of the grassroots is backed by the Tagum Agricultural Development Company Inc., Damosa Land, Davao Packaging Corp., Davao International Container Terminal, Inc. and Pearl Farm Beach Resort. Caroline Baustista, 40, lauded the services of the MOC, after seek-ing treatment for her migraine and elevated blood pressure. “They are very nice. They give excellent medical services to the delegates,” said the delegation nurse of the Region 1 Athletic Association. (noel baguio/davnor pio)

Health authorities alert public against various diseases from drought

GENERAL SANTOS CITY, May4--- The City Health Office (CHO) here has alert-ed public against possible diseases that the intense heat brought about by the summer season and the onslaught of El Niño may cause.

By Catrerine T. Apelacio

Dr. Mely Lastimoso, assistant city health officer said the summer season though is fun can still be depressing especially for chil-dren and the elderly due to dry spell or the El Niño phenomenon.

She said she feels sad that the children are “the most vulnerable” of all in the event that there is a change in weather condition.

According to her, the diseases that can ad-versely affect one’s health as a result of the erratic weather condition are cough, colds, fever, and sunburn.

“Aside from this, the elderly may suffer from heat stroke,” Lastimoso said urging them to keep themselves healthy and hy-drated by drinking lots of water and eating fruits.

“This (water therapy) also goes for chil-dren,” she added.

The health officer also advised the public


to minimize their exposure to sun as this can trigger sunburn and even worst heat stroke.

Unfortunately in SOCCSKSAR-GEN the dry spell has not only affected humans but plants and animals too. So far, it has rav-aged crops here like rice, corn, and other high-value foods.

Earlier, the General Santos City Agriculture Office headed by Merlinda Donasco reported at least 6 percent or 623 of the total farmers and more than 1,000 hectares of land in the area have been affected.

Although the number is not enough to “declare a state of

calamity” because it is way lower than the 20 percent ceil-ing required by law, Donasco did not discount the possibility that there will be more farmers/land to get affected in the next days, considering the drought stays until August this year.

Meanwhile, Dr. Rex Calub, chief of the Meat Inspection Division of the City Veterinary Office here also confirmed a number of domestic and farm animals that have been affected by the drought.

As a result, he said they are undertaking various initiatives to mitigate El Niño effects to an


58 farmers receive ducks from NorthCot LGU

KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, May 4--- Some 58 farmers from M’lang town obtained a total of 870 ducks from the provincial government through the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian.

imals by ensuring that differ-ent kinds of remedies are avail-able and accessible like medi-cines when needed.

“Ang sobrang init ay nakapag-bibigay ng stress sa mga ha-yop kaya minabuti namin ang maghanda ng mga suplay ng gamot sa panahong gaya nito (Intense heat can stress out do-mestic and farm animals that’s why we made sure to prepare necessary supply of medicines especially in time like this),” Ca-lub said.

General Santos City has been experiencing intense heat in the last weeks, the highest so far was recorded at 38.4 degrees Celsius last April 6 followed by a 37.1 degree Celsius on April 7.

PAGASA advised the public to always be prepared, vigilant, and to keep abreast with the

latest bulletin about the drought saying high temperature reading is far from being over soon.

It also told people to avoid sun exposure and to bring pro-tective body gears to shield themselves from the blazing heat of the sun including drink-ing lots of water now and then.

Just like the CHO, the Depart-ment of Health (DOH) has also issued earlier a warning alert against six common diseases that can be contracted during summer especially that the sea-son is now being aggravated by El Niño phenomenon.

The diseases, according to DOH are the 6S comprised of “sore eyes, sunburn, sipon at ubo, suka at tae, sakit sa balat at sakmal ng aso.” (CT Apelacio, PIA-12 General Santos City)

By Shahana Joy E.Duerme

Dr. Rufino Sorupia, acting provincial veterinarian said that

the OPVet through its Animal Dispersal Program distributed


the ducks to 15 farmers in Barangay Dalipe, 21 farmers in Barangay Lika and to 22 farm-ers in Barangay Tibao.

“This is a part of the series of dispersals in different villages in the province where small farm-ers are the target recipients,” Sorupia stated adding that the distribution aims to increase farmers’ productivity and im-prove their living condition.

He also noted that the pro-vincial government continues to strengthen its services to poor farmers especially those resid-ing in far- flung villages.

Meanwhile, Nelson Peroy, chairman of Barangay Lika ex-

pressed his appreciation for the assistance his constituents re-ceived saying that the ducks could help the farmers earn ad-ditional income for their living.

“This is the real essence of public service, being true to words and promises by putting words into actions,” Peroy em-phasized lauding the provincial government’s tag line, ‘Serbi-syong Totoo’.

Also, barangay chairmen of Tibao and Dalipe both expressed the same appreciation for valu-ing the farmers in their areas. (SJDuerme-PIA12/N. Cot. Pro-vincial Government)


6 remote villages in AgSur town avail potable water supplyBy: Maria Soccoro M. Vea

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - Residents in six far-flung barangays in Trento can now access to the P5.6 million worth potable water supply project under President Benigno Simeon Aquino’s Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) special project where the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) became one of the recipients. Barangays Langkilaan, New Visayas, Pangyan, San Ignacio, Cuevas and Manat, all


in Trento town were recipient of Rehabilitation of Spring Development (Water Supply System Level II) project funded by PAMANA – Department of Interior Local Government (DILG). According to Armando Gomez, PAMANA point person of PGAS, Langkilaan got a funding of P1.5 million; New Visayas P1.3M; Pangyan P790,000; San Ignacio P680,000; Cuevas P630,000 and Manat P660,000. Last month the PAMANA’s regional and provincial technical working group conducted a project inspection in these recipient six barangays and found out that all were 100 percent completed. According to Trento Mayor Johnmark Billanes, for the longest time residents have suffered the lack of potable water supply but this time, all their agony was set aside. “We are here to deliver services to our people. What we want in return is for you to have sense of ownership and protect the blessings that our national and local government have extended,” Governor Adolph Edward Plaza said, adding he is always ready to extend help for the Agusanons in order that every development programs will

be equally shared by the people. Plaza noted that although the development come so slow but it would surely reached to their communities in a given time. Arlene Ann Sanchez, DILG provincial director, said this special project should be given proper management by the Barangay Water System Association (BAWASA). She added that the BAWASA should be responsible for maintaining, regulating and organizing the system. Sanchez emphasized that the water is filtered and examined, thus, safe for drinking. According to Marcelino Escio, one of the beneficiaries, they have to walk for 100 meters before in order to fetch water from the river as their source of drinking water. Escio added that he is very thankful that the water supply became accessible in their area. “My role is to represent the six barangays of Trento in expressing their appreciation for the projects undertaken in our municipality. With this, I expressed my heartfelt gratitude to the national and provincial governments and PAMANA program of the President,” said Mayor Billanes.


DOST chief visits Siargao IslandBy: John Glenn A. Platil

SURIGAO CITY - Department of Science and Technology (DOST) secretary Mario Montejo together with his undersecretaries and all regional directors arrived in Siargao Island on Apr. 22, this year, for a three-day Management Committee (ManCom) meeting held at Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa in General Luna, this province. In his message Sec. Montejo declared his 100 percent support to the administration of governor Sol F. Matugas for all the science and technology-related projects

in the province. Also, Montejo backed the Coconut Production, which is the leading source of livelihood and profit of the islanders, especially

The Water Supply System Level II was realized through the PAMANA Program in partnership

with provincial government of Agusan del Sur, DILG and the local government unit of Trento.


the members of the peasant community. He also cited packaging of Siargao’s home-made items and best products. Prior to the visit of Sec. Montejo and his team, governor Matugas convened the Team Capitol with respect to security arrangement in the island. She also led the inspection at Cloud 9 for the realization of a 40-meter easement linking,

involving and concerning the waters for the planned Cloud 9 Adventure Park and completion of the Sewerage Treatment Plan. Montejo thanked gov. Matugas, cong. Francisco Matugas and Del Carmen mayor Alredo Coro, Jr. for the warm hospitality and gracious welcome that he and his party received while in Siargao.

DOLE: SurSur jail guards victimized by NPA atrocities to get aid from ECC

TANDAG CITY - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Surigao del Sur assured all five jail guards, victimized recently by atrocities of the New People’s Army (NPA), of appropriate compensation from Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC).

By: Greg Tataro Jr.

Photo Credit: Rodge Cultura


Raymond Fel Sajor, DOLE provincial field office chief, said coordination between their office and the ECC has already been underway immediately after the unfortunate incident when Senior Officers 2 (SO2) Feliciano Polan and Juan Salazar, both provincial-employed guards as well as three others—Jail Officer 3 (JO3) Alfredo Galindo, JO1 Mardenver Balan, and JO1 Roger Sarvida were waylaid by an estimated hundred armed men believed to be NPA rebels on April 27 at around 7:45 a.m. in Barangay Amontay, Marihatag town, 50.5 kilometers, this city. It can be recalled that all five were escorting two NPA-

detainees—Jojean Alameda and Robert Rivas—on board the same BJMP vehicle on their way to a court hearing at the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 28 in Lianga, some 39.5 kilometers farther down south from the ambush site. Reportedly, during the initial burst of gunfire, as the vehicle sped up upon sensing danger, three BJMP guards were hit—Galindo, Balan, and Sarvida including Rivas. Luckily, both Polan and Salazar did not sustain any injury but were taken captives; Alameda, who was not also hit, was rescued by comrades in the process. Sajor explained “any worker, regardless of employer—whether in government or in private sector, is provided a meaningful and appropriate compensation in the event of a work-related contingencies” through the ECC.




Documents

One Mindanao - May 4, 2015