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DepEd E-learning program launched
by RG Alama
Davao City (31 August 2005) -- An Electronic online learning program for Department of Education's teachers and principals was launched last Friday August 26, at the Department of Education regional office here in Davao City

Dubbed as the E-learning Space program, it utilizes web-based technology in its distant learning program and made for public school and teachers in Region 11, 12 and the Autonomous Region for Moslem Mindanao (ARMM) to improve their competencies in teaching and school management.

Gilbert Importante, Mindanao E-Learning Space manager said courses in Change Manangement, School Physical and Resources Management, Social Marketing and Constructivism in Teaching and Learning are offered to the teaching staff while participants are given CD-ROMS and learners guide for the program, and in the e-learning space, the participants are given assignments, exams, presentations and discussions.

Mr. Importante said that the web program saves cost since its isn't as expensive as maintaining a regular class and the units are credited in their Masteral program.

According to DepEd Undersecretary Fe Hidalgo the elearning program provides access to learners, facilitates teachings and improves quality learnings.

"There are interactive lessons, independent studies and independent learnings." Said Usec. Hidalgo.

The program is allocated at least P4 million a year until 2008 funded by the Australian Government's Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM) with a 10% counterpart funding from the Department of Education.

The program is in support of the Education for All program of the President's Arroyo's BEAT THE ODDS agenda.

The Mindanao E-learning program which can be accessed to the website www.Mispace.org.ph. is developed jointly by the DepEd, BEAM and the University of Southeastern Philippines. (PIA Davcomval)

Wanted: Gen. Public on crime prevention consciousness
By Gigi P. Montejo
Tacloban City (31 August 2005) -- Anybody who can tell the whereabouts of a certain Gen. Public possessing consciousness on crime prevention is ordered to present it to the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), Region 8 under the chairmanship of Chief Supt. Dionisio Coloma.

The RPOC, which members come from the different government offices, is calling the general public to witness the celebration of the 11th National Crime Prevention Week to start with a kick-off ceremony at RTR Plaza tomorrow, September 1.

The celebration primarily aimed at increasing people's awareness and consciousness on crime prevention will conduct a week-long information activities for barangay tanods, high school and college students and the general public. This celebration on National Crime Prevention is in accordance with President Gloria Macapagl-Arroyo's Good Governance priority thrust.

Highlighting the celebration are crime prevention seminar at Tacloban City Jail, Sept. 2; Crime Prevention and Drug Abuse Symposium at St. Paul's Business School, Sept. 5; and Ugnayan sa Barangay at Brgy. Diit, Sept. 6. (PIA-8)

1st Capiz school-based teen center now a nat’l model
by A. Lumaque
Roxas City (31 August 2005) -- A Teen Zone in the Capiz State University (CAPSU) â€" Bailan, Pontevedra town campus has been considered as an observation study tour area and the nation’s replication model in view of its achievements in the protection and care for the adolescents.

The project was established in 2003 thru the United Nations Fund for Population Activities’ Reproductive Health implementation to practically enhance technical capacity of service providers in providing RH services and information and improve awareness and knowledge of adolescents on RH issues and concerns.

Dr. Samuel Delfin, UNFPA Provincial Project Coordinator for Capiz, said that the project was also established in the CAPSU Pilar and Buri-as, Mambusao campuses and 19 public secondary schools provincewide to help curb teenage pregnancies, substance abuse and negative peer influence.

Each teen center is equipped with audio-video equipments, gameboards, musical instruments, and IEC materials on ARH, HIV/AIDS, sexuality and related learning resource materials.

The provincial government has extended the project to public secondary schools to integrate the campaign against illegal drugs and ensure that ARH program reached the community level.

The adolescent friendly center is managed by peer educators and information providers trained in extending services like counseling, focused-group discussion, indoor activities like board games, musical instrument playing and video presentation on topics related to ARH, HIV/AIDS and prohibited drugs.

Rossandrew Villaruel, Teen Zone Coordinator, said the center has significantly reduced teenage pregnancies from eight in 2002 to only one case last year, minimized substance abuse and negative peer pressure.

He added that Nepalese nationals and Cagayan De Oro observers have visited the project for observation of applicable practices into their respective localities.

The Capiz Teen Zone experience in Capiz is considered a best practice along with the President Roxas Rural Health Unit-managed Violence Against Women and Children Center, Community Operated RH and Advocacy in the UNFPA’s 5th Country Programme of Assistance aimed to uplift the quality of life of all Capiceños. (PIA)

Commentary: Fundamental constitutional requirements of an impeachment
By Henry S. Lagasca
SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (31 August 2005) -- The dying ambition of the opposition to bring down President Arroyo at all cost is on issue here.

Pro-impeachment congressmen resorted to a walkout as part of their planned tantrum to prepare the minds of the public and perhaps, agitate towards a street-parliament scenario outside the impeachment process and outside the procedures provided by law.

The walkout, it seems, was staged by the anti-Gloria lawmakers who failed to muster enough endorsers for the impeachment complaint and defend its case before the House committee on justice chaired by Rep. Simeon Datumanong.. As of this writing, 49 congressmen have signed the amended impeachment complaint against President Arroyo, the latest of which is Rep. Cynthia Villar of Las Pinas.

The impeachment complaint accuses the President of betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the Constitution and bribery and graft and corruption. The justice committee is hearing both sides on whether all three impeachment complaints, the first filed by lawyer Oliver Lozano and subsequently amended and another two complaints filed by opposition congressmen or the consolidation of all three into a single impeachment complaint be given due course. However, the pro-impeachment congressmen walked out during the hearing following heated debates over which of the three complaints should be given preference.

Responsible behaviour should be observed by both sides in arguing their case rather than, in the case of the opposition, tossing documents into the air. Those who seek the ouster of an impeachable official, this time the President of the republic, must come fully prepared for it. An impeachment case must be backed by concrete and tangible pieces of evidence rather than imaginable accusation by the so-called whistle blowers and the disgruntled members of the Hyatt 10 who have the propensity to cry in front of TV cameras.

Legal processes dictate that there must be a verified impeachment complaint, the complaint must have enough signatures so it can be sent to the Senate, or having failed to do so, it must be endorsed by the plenary for trial. What is important is that the impeachment complaint must be credible. This is the responsibility of the opposition.

So far these fundamental constitutional processes have not been fulfilled. It is even possible now for a complaint to be dismissed before it reaches the Senate. If the impeachment complaint against President Arroyo “dies the natural way” due to lack of signatures, it is really the opposition who will kill their own impeachment complaint. The opposition has no one else to blame if the process grinds to a halt. (PIA Ilocos)

RDCC-7 prepares for mass casualty situation
By Minerva BC Newman
Cebu City (31 August 2005) -- The Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC-7) in region VII prepares its disaster management capability in cases of mass casualty situations. This was the major discussion during the 2nd council meeting held recently at the Police Regional Office here in Cebu.

P/CSupt. Eduardo Gador, PRO-7 Director and Chairman, RDCC-7 said, the council must re-direct its efforts or make a paradigm shift from disaster awareness to the best practices in disaster management especially on mass casualty situation. "With all the preparations we have done, we are prepared to address and respond to any disaster that may come to our region, although, we are also thankful that we have been spared from any damaging disaster," Gador added.

During the various committee reports and updates, emphasis was given on the council's capability to manage a disaster with a mass casualty of about 60 to a hundred.

SFO4 Bernardo del Mar of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP-7) reported that its personnel are highly trained to respond to any emergency, first aid medical services and fire suppression. In terms of equipment, Del Mar said, the BFP can only suppress fire up to the 7th floor of any building because that is how high their ladders can go. Communications, transportations and response capability are high although, "we still need more equipment and some state of the art facilities to suppress huge fires," Del Mar said.

The committee on disaster preparedness led by the Dept. of Interior & Local Government (DILG) through its representative Ma. Luisa Ong reported that all LGUs in region 7 have already activated their respective LDCCs or local disaster coordinating councils. But based on the committee's 2004 assessment, Ong bared that only 89% of the LDCCs are functional; only 61% have disaster management, preparedness, relied & rehabilitation plans and only 25% of the barangays have functional BDCCs or Barangay Disaster Coordinating Councils.

In similar developments, the Dept. of Health (DOH-7) through Dr. Joseph Alesna also reported that the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) and DOH-7 personnel are prepared to respond to any mass casualty situation that may occur in Cebu.

Alesna said, their disaster management preparedness plans have long been in place and all medical units, departments and personnel have been briefed on the matter. The hospital services and capabilities plans are color coded to ensure safer and efficient flow of patients, people, victims and medical responses to any disaster of mass casualty. Dr. Alesna further said that by October, these plans would be put to a "drill" for readiness and general evaluation.

In conclusion, the RDCC-7 Chairman also called on the Office of Civil defense (OCD) here to prepare a working paper on a "mass disaster management and preparedness drill" that would be conducted in November this year to test the readiness of the RDCC and the public to respond and manage a disaster of mass casualty situation. (PIA-Cebu) [top]

Impeachment vote dagok sa oposisyon
by CL Cadorna

Koronadal City (31 August 2005) -- Itinuring na isang malaking dagok sa oposisyon at ang kanilang mga kaalyado sa nangyari kahapon sa impeachment proceedings na napanood sa telebisyon sa buong bansa. Dahil sa ginawang walkout kahapon ng mga miembro ng minorya sari sari ang naging reaksyon ng mga mamamayan mula sa ibat ibang sector. Ayon sa empleyado ng isang estasyon ng radio sa Koronadal city, dapat ibasura na lang ang impeachment case dahil gulo lang ang natatamo natin. Ayon sa kanya, wala ring maaaring kapalit na may sapat na kakayahan tulad ng Pangulong Arroyo. Kanyang iminungkahi na hayaan na lang na matapos ang kanyang termino. Nakapanlulumo naman ang ginawang pag walk-out ng mga miembro ng minorya habang nagsiliparan ang mga documento na isa-isang inihagis sa loob ng session hall. Ito ang reaksyon ng isang negosyante sa mga pangyayari. Ayon sa kanya, dapat sundin ang tamang proseso sa paglilitis ng kaso na siya namang nakikita niya sa komitiba na humawak sa impeachment hearing. Bagaman nais din ng isang empleyado ng pamahalaan na maituloy ang impeachment proceedings upang lumabas ang katotohanan maliwanag sa kanyang pananaw na walang magagawa ang oposisyon at hindi rin aniya uobra ang mga alternatibong paraan tulad ng pag-martsa sa mga lansangan. Harapin na lang ang kasalukuyang pinangangambahan, ang krisis pangekonomiya ng bansa. (PIA)

Pagpapasabog sa Lamitan kinondena ng Pangulo
by CL Cadorna
Koronadal City (31 August 2005) -- Mariing kinondena ni Pangulong Arroyo ang pagpapasabog ng isang sasakyang pandagat sa Lamitan, Basilan kamakalawa na ikinamatay ng isang bata at pagkasugat ng 30 katao. Ayon sa Pangulo ang insidente ay isang kalunos-lunos na krimen laban sa kapayapaan at sangkatauhan.

Base sa salaysay ng ilang saksi at ng mga imbestigador, ang bomba na gawa sa isang improvised explosive device ay inilagay sa canteen ng MV Dona Ramona. Itinaon ang pagsabog nito habang papaalis na ang lantsa sa daungan ng Lamitan patungong Zamboanga City.

Kasabay nito, iniutos ng Pangulo sa mga security forces na tukuyin at dakpin ang mga may kagagawan nito. Lubos na ikinalungkot ng pangulo ang sinapit ng mga inosenteng pasahero kung kaya’t tiniyak niyang mabigyan ng sapat na atensiyon ang mga biktima.

Nagbabala din si Pangulong Arroyo na hindi tatantanan ng pamahalaan ang ganitong uri ng mga gawain ng terorista tulad din ng kanyang determinasyong isulong ang kapayapaan at kaunlaran ng bansa sa gitna ng mga banta sa seguridad nito.

Dala ng mga sunod sunod na pangyayari, itinaas din ang antas ng seguridad sa mga ciudad ng Koronadal, Cotabato , Tacurong, Kidapawan, General Santos at mga lalawigan ng Central Mindanao upang mapigilan ang masasamang balak ng mga terorista na maghasik ng takot sa mga mamamayan. (PIA)

Media advisory: DepEd to announce major policies at Sept. 1 presscon
Quezon City (31 August) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) has invited all media outfits send their reporters to the DepEd press conference tomorrow, Sept. 1, 11:30am at the OSEC Conference Room, 2nd Floor, Rizal Building, DepEd Complex, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City.

DepEd officer-in-charge Usec. Ramon C. Bacani is set to announce important DepEd policy announcements.

Inquiries may be directed to: Kristine Joy Lucero, communications officer, phone (02)-633-7208, fax (02)-636-4876, mobile +(63)-928-7887670, and email communications@deped.gov.ph. (PIA) [top]

CFO holds national awareness campaign on migration and intermarriages in the region
Davao City (31 August 2005) -- The Commission on Filipinos Overseas will be conducting its annual Community Education Program (CEP) entitled "Handa ka na bang mag-abroad? Ano ba ang mga dapat mong alamin?" from 18 to 24 September 2005 in the Davao Region.

The CEP will cover 3 provinces - Davao del Sur, Norte and Oriental, the CEP team will be in: Davao City, Davao del Sur - September 18-20; Tagum City, Davao del Norte - September 21; and Mati, Davao Oriental - September 22-24.

CFO officers will be joined by representatives of other government offices in this inter-agency endeavor which seeks to raise public awareness on various issues concerning migration, intermarriages and existing government policies and programs directed against illegal recruitment, documentation fraud, and human trafficking, among others.

Activities such as school symposia, meetings/dialogues with NGOs, GOs, religious leaders/members, pulong-pulong with local government units/community leaders and members, press briefings and radio interviews will be conducted by the CEP team.

Approximately 3,000 attendees are expected to take part in the CEP activities. (CFO)

Certification needed for heavy equipment operators
Davao City (31 August 2005) -- The Construction Manpower Development Foundation (CMDF), a government agency under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in cooperation with the Lapanday Skills Training Center (LSTC), an accredited assessment center of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will conduct regularly the Skills Assessment for Heavy Equipment Operators.

The Skills Assessment leads to the certification of operators once they successfully passed both the written and actual examinations. The Certification Program was conceived and implemented with the aim of improving the level of skills of workers in the construction industry.

To be employed in certain skilled trades, workers must have a Certification from TESDA through accredited centers like LSTC and CMDF. The certification of heavy equipment operators is also one of the requirements provided in the DOLE Department Order 3-Guidelines Governing Safety & Health in Construction Operators who wants to seek certification should have at lease a 3-year experience, with professional driver's license, and are physically and mentally fit. An assessment fee of Php 1,175 will be charged per participant to cover for the cost of materials, consumables, honorarium for the assessors and administration cost.

Interested participants may visit the CMDF office at DTI XI, the Mintrade Realty Bldg., Corner Monteverde-Sales St., Davao City of call Engr. Bryant Arante at tel. No (082) 224-0511 loc. 421. The venue for the trade assessments at the Lapanday Skills Training Center in Mandug, Davao City. The schedules will be set on a per batch basis. (DTI)

PNP spearheads symposia on anti-illegal drugs
By Gemma T. Tabao
Tacloban City (31 August 2005) -- In response to the government's thrust on peace and order, the Philippine National Police (PNP), Region 8 under the leadership of Police Chief Supt. Dionisio Coloma, spearheads the implementation of different programs and activities, among which is the conduct of symposia on anti-illegal drugs which is presently one of the priority programs of the PNP.

PNP's Anti-Drugs Special Operations Task Force facilitated the recently concluded symposia on Anti-Illegal Drugs with Police Deputy Director General Ricardo de Leon as guest speaker. The activity was participated in by students from St. Paul's Business School in Pawing, Palo, Leyte and Asian Development Foundation, Tacloban City.

Dubbed as "Pamilya Ko Ayaw Sa Droga", said symposia were conducted to give awareness on the ill-effects of drugs.

According to the reports gathered by the Philippine Information Agency, the activities are part of the PNP's anti-illegal drugs campaign in the region which has gained recognition and remarkable accomplishments.

Meanwhile De Leon's coming to the region is part of his provincial visits which according to him, is the key for effective management.

De Leon is the Deputy Chief for Administration and the Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operation Task Force Commander of the Philippine National Police. (PIA-8)

Caraga's cream of crop compete in popquiz show
by Rutchie C. Saluta
BUTUAN CITY (25 August 2005) -- The battle of the brains among graduating high school students all over the region will be showcased by the regional offices of the Commission on Population and the Department of Education on September 23, this year.

Eight champions from the schools division of Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte (mainland), Siargao, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Butuan City, Bislig City, and Surigao City will compete in the upcoming Regional Population Quiz to be held in the covered court, Gov. D.O. Plaza Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

Being the regional champion in the last year's pop quiz, Agusan del Sur automatically inherits the chance to host the 2005 Regional Population Quiz.

The population quiz is an advocacy campaign of the POPCOM's Adolescent Health and Youth Development Program. It has been held jointly with DepEd since 1980 to raise the consciousness of young people on population and development issues.

"Popquiz is designed to generate awareness and interest in population and development issues and matters among the youth, community influential, and the general public", POPCOM Director Camilo Pangan said.

The POPCOM-Caraga chief added that the project is also aimed to increase the understanding and appreciation of the young people on issues affecting their welfare as they're molded to become responsible parents and productive citizens.

Meantime, contestants in the different divisions are very busy to equip themselves with the latest information on population and development as the division popquiz are conducted between August - September at the local level.

"Division and regional popquiz are being facilitated to ensure thorough screening of contestants. Whoever wins in the regional elimination will bring the name of Caraga in the national stage comes October, this year", Pangan added. (POPCOM-13/PIA-Caraga)

THE HONORABLE NEIL J. ABAYON
AANGAT TAYO Party-list
Assistant Minority Leader
PRC maghihigpit sa CPD training requirement
NURSE-SOLON SA CHED: MAGBIGAY NG TRAINING SA MGA PINOY PROFESSIONALS

Nananawagan ang isang kongresistang registered nurse sa Commission on Higher Education na magbigay ng abot-kayang halagang training para sa mga propesyunal batay sa tagubilin ng Republic Act 10912 o ang Continuing Professional Development Act.

Ayon sa CPD Act, requirement bago makapag-renew ng lisensiya ang pagkumpleto sa continuing professional development (CPD) training.

Inilabas ni AANGAT TAYO Party-list Congressman Neil Abayon ang panawagan matapos ianunsiyo ng Professional Regulation Commission na simula December 1, 2017, di na papayagan ang mga guro makapag-renew ng professional identification card hangga’t di nakaka-kumpleto ng 15 units na CPD training.

“Sang-ayon ako sa layunin ng batas na i-upgrade ang kakayahan at kaalaman ng mga propesyunal; kaso lang, madalas mahal ang training kasi halos puro private firms o private associations lang ang nagbibigay ng CPD. Mabigat ito para sa mga propesyunal gaya ng nurse at guro na di naman mataas ang sahod,” sabi ni Assistant Minority Leader Abayon.

“Bagaman, pinapayagan naman sa implementing rules and regulations ng RA 10912 na magbigay ng CPD trainings ang mga government institutions gaya ng SUCs, kakaunti lamang ang mga SUCs na nag-aalok nito,” paliwanag ni Abayon na isa ring registered nurse.

Heto ang nakikitang solusyon ni Abayon: “Dapat makipagtulungan ang CHED at SUCs sa PRC para makapagbukas ng mas maraming CPD training centers at pag-aralan kung paano gagawing abot-kaya ang halaga ng mga iaalok nilang CPD training.”

“Ang ilang SUCs ay may mga training institutes at extension centers na maaaring magamit sa CPD training. Meron ding Open University ang ilang SUCs. Ang Open University ay maaaring isang paraan para makapaghatid ng CPD trainings sa mga propesyunal na nasa malayong lugar,” giit ni Abayon.

“Lahat ng ito’y maaari isakatuparan sa bisa ng isang CHED Memorandum o SUC Board Resolutions. Nawa’y bilisan na ng CHED at SUCs ang pagtugon sa panawagang ito,” sabi ni Abayon.

REFERENCES: http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2016/07jul/20160721-RA-10912-BSA.pdf  http://www.prc.gov.ph/uploaded/documents/CPDprovider_NURSE_102617.pdf
http://web.ched.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Republic-Act-No.-8292-The-Higher-Education-Modernization-Act-of-1997.pdf   

Fiscal reforms, tuloy-tuloy
by Cecil Cadorna
Cotabato City (30 June 2005) -- "On track" pa rin ang fiscal programs ng pamahalaan. Bagama't nagtala muli ng P56.641 Billion deficit ang public sector mula Enero hanggang Marso ngayong taon, mababa pa rin ito para sa projected deficit ng Finance Department na P69.871 Billion.

Ayon sa ulat ni Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima sa Malacanang, hindi pa kailangan ng panibagong round ng pangungutang para matugunan ang kakulangan natin sa pondo kung kaya't nakatutok ang gobyerno sa pagpapatupad ng reporma particular sa mga government-owned and controlled corporations, sa ilang repormang naumpisahan na, at ang pag-pasok ng kita mula sa implementasyon ng E-Vat na lalong magpapa-stabilize sa fiscal standing ng pamahalaan.

Isang malaking hamon ito sa Pangulo at ang kanyang mga economic managers na i-maintain ang direksyon ng fiscal at economic reforms sa harap ng ganitong suliraning pinansiyal..

Ayon sa Malacanang officials, nakatitiyak sila na mapagtagumpayan ni Pangulong Arroyo ang mga repormang naumpisahan niya sa gitna ng mga di makabuluhang bangayan ng mga pulitiko na nakakaapekto rin sa takbo ng ekonomiya ng bansa. (PIA)

Southern Leyte celebrates 45th anniversary
Tacloban City (30 June 2005) -- Governor Rosette Y. Lerias leads the province of Southern Leyte in celebrating its 45th anniversary on July 1, 2005.

The theme "Southern Leyte: Onwards to a Golden Harvest" sets the mood of the occasion. With the dynamic leadership of Governor Lerias, the people of Southern Leyte have many reasons to celebrate. She has successfully stirred the province into what it is today.

The celebration will be highlighted by an anniversary program at the Capitol Sunken Garden.

Governor Lerias, who is the Chairperson of the Regional Development Council of Eastern Visayas, declared that the affair which will have Honorable Victoriano Lecaros, Philippine Ambassador to Vietnam as the Guest Speaker, will be attended by officials of the Southern Leyte Provincial government, local government executives and representatives of the national line agencies in the region. (PIA

PGMA lauds AMOSUP on health initiatives
by T. Villavert
Iloilo City (30 June 2005) -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo lauded the Associated Marine Officers' and Seamen's Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) for putting up a hospital that directly impact on the needs of the AMOSUP's members and dependents in Western Visayas.

The President during the inauguration of the Seamen's Hospital Iloilo yesterday (June 30) was happy to note that "our seafarers and their families are well taken care of by the private sector, people's organizations and by the government as well."

The three-storey Seamen's Hospital is a 40-bed capacity hospital constructed at a cost of P42 million and occupying 3,300 square meters in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

AMOSUP President, Captain Gregorio Oca led President Arroyo to the various departments of the three-storey hospital. This is now the third satellite facility of the AMOSUP throughout the country, who count about 55,000 members.

During the activity, President Arroyo that OWWA's scholarship program for the Seafarers' families will soon start on a mass scale.

She said that the program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) will now be "backed up by the national government funds coming from the reforms we made in the phase one of our economic agenda."

"With additional revenues", the President said, "we can now fund programs that directly impact on the people including the welfare of the seafarers and their families."

President Arroyo counts on the seafarers to takepart in the economic upliftment of the country, as well as urges them to bring the great quality of the Filipino seafarers through out the world. (PIA)

It is still Glo for the Ilonggos
Iloilo City (30 June 2005) -- A visibly touched President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo received a long-standing ovation from her "kasimanwas" when Governor Niel Tupas informed her of the Ilonggos' support during the program commemorating the Philippine-Spain Friendship Day at the Iloilo Capitol Grounds, June 30, 2005.

Wearing a blue pant suit, the President who earlier arrived at around 10:20 am at the Mandurriao Airport, appeared relaxed and was mobbed by Ilonggos who were at the Capitol grounds, who all wanted to shake her hands and take her picture.

Even the weather cooperated with the Presidential visit. Earlier, the skies were dark and downcast. However the sun came out before the President arrived and continued throughout her visit. Just as the President left, the heavens poured.

Although smiling, President Arroyo appeared teary-eyed when Governor Niel Tupas reiterated the unqualified support of the Ilonggos for her. Governor Tupas told the President "We are proud to inform you that Iloilo has never wavered in its support to your administration."

It will be recalled that during the 2001 elections the President had one of the biggest leads over her nearest rivals from the Province and City of Iloilo.

Tupas said that the Ilonggos are reiterating their trust and confidence in the President's leadership and assured her that Iloilo stands solidly behind her.

In the same program, Governor Niel Tupas presented to the President the resolutions of support of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the League of Municipalities, Iloilo Chapter and other local government groups.

After the Capitol activity, the Officers of AMOSUP and their families, led by Captain Gregorio Oca also warmly received the President when she inaugurated the Seamen's Hospital. The response to the President's announcement that soon a scholarship for the families of the seafarers would start was met with much enthusiasm and clapping.

From all indications of the visit, the President did not lose her rapport with the Ilonggos who have always considered her as one of their own, being married to an Ilonggo.

The visit once again affirmed the close ties between the President and the Ilonggos. (PIA-6)

PIA conducts briefing on nat'l internal security, critical infra
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (30 June 2005) -- In line with Executive Order No. 21 issued by Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to institutionalize the internal security system at the national and local levels, the Philippine Information Agency in Negros Oriental conducted recently an orientation-briefing on the National Internal Security Plan and the campaign for the protection of Critical Infrastructures.

Attended by information officers and representatives from LGUs here, the briefing discussed how identified critical infrastructures in the province are beefing up their contingency measures in line with the government's all-out campaign on anti-terrorism.

The government recently called on Congress to immediately enact an anti-terrorism bill, which would also give protection to human rights.

An identified critical infrastructure due to its transmission facilities, the National Transmission Corporation (TRANSCO) has organized Bantay Liga Brigades in the province to monitor, maintain and keep watch over critical areas traversed by power lines, says Engr. Zosimo Briones, TRANSCO District 4 Department Manager.

Briones during the said briefing reported that around 12 brigades have been organized in Tanjay and Bais cities and another brigade will soon be created in Mabinay.

He said the brigades are not only trained to watch out for terrorist activities in the critical areas but also to monitor acts of pilferage, which he says, is also a form of sabotage.

Aside from this, TRANSCO's security has been augmented by the deployment of military or PNP forces in critical substations provincewide. (PIA)

Oriental Negros pushed as call center capital
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (30 June 2005) -- Oriental Negros is being eyed as the call center capital of the Philippines.

Fortunato Javier, provincial director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here said that Oriental Negros, particularly Dumaguete, is producing qualified professionals needed by the call center industry.

"The reason why a lot of call centers are coming here is because we are a people processing zone with quality English language," Javier noted in an earlier interview.

A renowned business consultant has reportedly noted that the province has the resources and technology to be the country's hub for outsourcing companies like call centers.

Philippines remains a rosy spot for putting up a call center business although high personnel turnover has been a cause for concern.

However, the country's information technology services sector is expanding so fast that there would be a dearth of talents to fill the 30, 000 new jobs that are expected to open annually over the next few years. (PIA)

Commentary: Leap of faith
Baguio City (30 June 2005) -- The “PGMA- Susan rivalry” which some sectors are trying to paint is only doing more harm than good.

The hint that “plans” from several groups, which have already been brought to Mrs. Poe’s attention seem to be geared to bring down the administration. These kinds of talk tend to only cause Filipinos to panic and be brainwashed into surrendering the national agenda to people who do not have a sense of national direction. These kinds of talk also tend to send the national psyche careening in fright as reflected by the continuing drop of the peso and the markets.

Government therefore needs to make reform moves faster and bigger in order to overwhelm all the noise and uncertainty fast filling the social atmosphere. There is a need to overtake events and stop punctuating them by reaction and explanation of the Administration’s side.

The people need to be shown that there is a leadership they can count on that will apply its vision, vast resources and unparalleled powers not to react to its detractors but to take the nation out of the rut and forward into global pride and competitiveness.

There are no magic pills. The administration just has to be serious and sweeping in addressing basic concerns for food, jobs and peace and order; and in attacking basic ills such as corruption, smuggling, tax evasion, etc., and by channeling otherwise wasted or idle government resources and manpower to achieve these ends.

The sacrifices that the President and her family are making, as well as the implementation radical reforms, are signals of better things ahead.

In the meantime, we just have to take a leap of faith. (PIA)

LGUs urged to prepare for flood, typhoon
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (30 June 2005) -- In view of the declaration of the third week of June as typhoon and flood awareness week, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Negros Oriental is urging all local government units here to conduct mitigating measures that will head off the disastrous effects of typhoon and flood.

With the summer period almost over, Malacañang issued Proclamation No. 823 pronouncing the third week of June as typhoon and flood awareness week to promote the conduct of awareness campaigns on typhoon and flood preparedness.

Reports show that Typhoon Dante has moved out of the Philippines, moving north-northeast towards southern Japan.

Local OCD chief Allen Cabaron said LGUs should identify beforehand calamity-prone areas in their areas like those along riverbanks and mountain slopes.

Based on records from the provincial planning and development office, the identified landslide-prone areas here are Canlaon, Manjuyod-Himampangon, Bais-Mabinay, Dauis-Mabinay, and Mabinay-Bayawan.

The same records identify the following as flood-prone areas: Vallehermoso, Guihulngan, Bindoy, Manjuyod, Bais City, Tanjay City, Pamplona, Amlan, Sibulan, Dumaguete City, Bacong, Siaton and Bayawan City.

Cabaron said LGUs particularly those prone to calamity should conduct evacuation drills and exercises while carrying out massive education drive or pulong-pulong down to the barangay levels on disaster preparedness.

Barangay officials should ensure that the barangay has flood control projects such as dikes and the culverts cleaned and clog-free.

Evacuation centers should already be identified by now so that affected residents will know where to go right away in the event of a disaster, says Cabaron.

Typical evacuation centers are schools, churches, warehouses and sports coliseums with functional potable water.

Cabaron also called for barangays to adopt a coded warning system so residents can quickly respond accordingly when typhoon, flood and other destructive weather phenomena occurs and avert possible loss of life and property. (PIA)

Tacloban marks 116th Sto. Niño feast day
Tacloban City (30 June 2005) -- Archbishop Pedro Dean of the Archdiocese of Palo leads today's pontifical mass as the city marks today the 116th annual fiesta honoring Sr. Sto. Nino. The mass is concelebrated by a great number of priests all over the diocese with the retired Bishop of Calbayog and the Bishop of Naval, Bishop Filomeno Bactol as the Liturgist.

Bishop Isabelo Abarquez, auxiliary bishop of Palo announced that the fiesta today will be highlighted with the customary fluvial procession and the land procession. Thousands of devotees are expected to join the fluvial procession at 3:00 o'clock in the afternoon. The fluvial procession starts and ends at the port area participated in by well decorated sea crafts all carrying images of the city's patron, Sr. Sto. Niño.

Right after the fluvial procession, the image of the Sr. Sto. Nino is brought down to join in the land procession which will end at the Sto. Niño Church. This day June 29 marks the return of the Sto. Niño image to Tacloban after it was lost at a sea mishap many years ago.

It has become a custom that the Feast Day of Senor Sto. Niño is devoted to purely religious activities, hence the socio cultural activities and the Pintados Festival are held on the Vespers day. (PIA

PGMA makes giant steps for the nation to move on
Tacloban City (30 June 2005) -- While the opposition and militant groups are making noise and emotional outbursts that sow chaos and havoc, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo goes on with the work of governance, bent on putting the nation in order.

She announced that her husband and her son have volunteered to leave the country to be far away from intrigues and controversies. This is not an easy decision to make considering how closely knit the ties of Filipino families are. But as a true servant leader, for the President, it is God first, the nation second and the family last.

Presidential Economic adviser, Rep. Joey Salceda disclosed that a very substantive government revamp that would address the concerns of the people and the convening of a constitutional convention are two major announcements that the President will make in the near future.

The major initiatives are manifestations that the President is on track to accomplishing her administration's tasks unfazed by the opposition's continuous fuelling of public outrage. The president is focused on completing the economic reforms she had started no matter what it takes because this is what the Filipino people expect of her.

The support of various sectors and bodies like ratings agency Fitch is a positive sign that the President is believed to be able to ride out the machinations of the people who want to grab power at the expense of democracy.

The Filipino people will never allow the political moro-moro to destroy the gains and push back the economic quagmire the country was once stuck in.

Filipinos know better. They will never allow themselves to be used by people who are hungry of power. If the ordinary citizens would have it, they no longer want to further the political and social unrest that is crippling the nation.

They will never be deceived by the outbursts of emotions from the President's detractors. They know that these detractors are motivated by personal interests, not with the noble cause of saving the country from trouble. They know that there are more pressing problems that must be faced. They know that the nation must move on. (PIA

Palace confident investors' faith in PGMA will sustain economy, growth
MANILA (30 June 2005) -- Malacañang has expressed confidence that investors' faith in President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's reform agenda will sustain the economic stability and growth of the country.

Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye made the statement in connection with the weakening of the peso. The peso the other day has plunged to P56.05 against a dollar. But the peso fall was short-lived.

Bunye said the Filipino people shall withstand and eventually overcome these challenges as there is much to bank on in the resiliency and deep spirit of enterprise that reside in the people.

"It is unfortunate, however, that the threats to the economy loom just when we are already gearing for a full economic turnaround," the Palace official added. (PIA-MMIO)

DLR reports 89% accomplishment on CARP land coverage
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (30 June 2005) -- Land coverage under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program in Negros Oriental has already reached an accomplishment of 89% according to a top agrarian reform officer here.

As of May 2005, the Department of Land Reform (DLR) here reported a total of 78,753 hectares of land distribution under CARP, covering 47,049 farmer beneficiaries.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Stephen Leonidas reported in a recent Kapihan forum that their accomplishment is based on CARP's target working scope of 88,964 hectares.

The Kapihan forum held by the Philippine Information Agency is in celebration of CARP's 17th year of implementation in the country.

In Negros Oriental, there are currently 26 agrarian reform communities in 12 municipalities covering 121 barangays.

Of these, there are 154 agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations with 15,824 farmer-beneficiary members.

The said organizations have a total capital buildup of 18.2 M, money coming from beneficiaries who contributed to their cooperatives as part of the requirements for a coop to be legalized or registered and for funding agencies as well.

DLR recently firmed up its support services projects for agrarian reform communities nationwide with the infusion of some P3 billion financial aid from the Official Development Assistance Fund.

Leonidas explained that the ARC is a cluster of 4 to 8 barangays where the land tenure and program beneficiaries development programs are being implemented and where the beneficiaries have not yet received support services.

When Leonidas first stepped in as PARO of Negros Oriental in 2002, a total of 16,000 hectares of land were identified as "problematic lands" due to resistance from land owners and ownership issues.

But in two years time, the total problematic areas were reduced to 10,742 hectares. "So there is a possibility that this (the total number of problematic lands), by the end of CARP in 2008, mahurot ug cover," says Leonidas.

Right now DLR is looking for ways and means to resolve problematic lands, in cooperation with DENR, LBP, PNOC and other agencies involved in CARP implementation.

Negros Oriental has total land area of 540,230 hectares. Of these, almost one half is agricultural area with 209, 712 has.

Main crops planted are coconut, sugar, corn, palay. (PIA)

More tropical cyclones up ahead - PAGASA
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (30 June 2005) -- The local weather bureau is expecting around 15 more tropical cyclones to hit the country this year.

According to Provincial Meteorological Chief Edsin Culi of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services (PAGASA) here, an average of 19 tropical cyclones go through the Philippine's area of responsibility each year.

PAGASA has embarked on a "text-a-typhoon" program recently as it expects more tropical storms to occur this year.

The weather office is also seeking more talks with airlines on its plan to charge fees for specialized weather information.

Early this year three tropical cyclones have already passed through the country, namely tropical storm Auring, typhoon Bising and tropical depressions Crising and Dante, says Culi.

PAGASA's latest seasonal climate outlook shows that eight to nine tropical cyclones are likely to occur from July to September, while four to 5 are expected from October to December.

Following the order of the English alphabet, Culi said the tropical cyclones that will cross the country's path in the following months would be christened as, namely: Emong, Peria, Gorio, Huaning, Isang, Jolina, Kiko, Labuyo, Maring, Nando, Ondoy, Pepeng, Quedan, Ramil, Santi, Tino, Urduja, Vinta, Wilma, Yolanda, Zoraida.

Malacañang has earlier issued Proclamation No. 823 declaring the third week of June as typhoon and flood awareness week to promote the conduct of awareness campaigns on typhoon and flood preparedness. (PIA)

Coco farmers seen to benefit from China coco market
Dumaguete City (30 June 2005) -- Coconut farmers in Central Visayas get a boost from the growing export potential of the Philippine's coco coir fiber product to China with its wide market to implement its desertification project.

China is currently using the Philippine coco coir fiber to make their barren lands eligible for planting trees.

As the Department of Trade and Industry accelerates its efforts to expand the export entry of the Philippines's coco products to China, over five million coconut farmers in the country will directly benefit from the move.

Aurora Lambino of the Philippine Coconut Authority bared that Negros Oriental has the biggest producers of the raw fiber material in the towns of Bacong and Guihulngan.

The Bacong coco farmers' cooperative produces 50 metric tons of raw fiber daily and 20 metric tons everyday from Guihulngan.

The raw fiber produce of both cooperatives is also sold to the same company, says Lambino.

In Cebu, slightly over 3,000 farmers from Aloguinsan town will soon produce the raw fiber taken from coconut husks for export to China.

The raw fiber will be sold at P7/kilo to the Philippine Sodum Coco Fiber Co. based on an exclusive contract between the company and the Aloguinsan farmers cooperative.

The company that will export the raw material to China may either use the raw material into the finished coco coir fiber product or for the manufacture of mattress and furniture.

The government has lined up several activities this year to promote the country's export of coconut products to China. (PIA)

Livestock raisers form coop
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (30 June 2005) -- In a bid to lower cost of livestock feeds in the province, around 30 livestock raisers in Negros Oriental have joined efforts to organize the Negros Oriental Raisers Multi-Purpose Cooperative.

According to Jaime Villaluz, Jr., in-charge of post production & marketing at the Provincial Veterinary Office, the livestock raisers, composed of hog farmers and swine raisers, will undergo a pre-membership education seminar on July 11 to 12, 2005 to be conducted by the Cooperative Development Authority at the Department of Agriculture compound in Valencia.

The two-day seminar is a requirement for the said cooperative to be registered, says Villaluz.

He explained that the cooperative's main objective is to put up a feed mill, which will afterwards result to local processing.

The two largest groups of meat processors and hog raisers in the country have joined forces to stabilize the supply and prices of livestock products here.

The Phil. Association of Meat Processors Inc. and the National Federation of Hog Farmers Inc. recently signed a memorandum of understanding to launch collaborative efforts to "stabilize prices of food from livestock production through the promotion and enhancement of business cooperation between two groups."

Livestock raisers in the province are in a tight spot when it comes to feeds and marketing due to increasing prices of commercial feeds. "Once the feed mill is put up, this will lower the cost because it is locally produced and the ingredients used are local," Villaluz explains.

Livestock raisers are eyeing the local produce to be cheaper by at least P200/sack compared to commercial products, he added.

Villaluz added that Valencia Vice Mayor Teodoro Olasiman has offered to loan out to the cooperative the municipality's budget for agricultural development as initial fund for the construction of the feed mill, hopefully in the town of Valencia. (PIA)

RDCC-8 observes National Disaster Consciousness Month
Tacloban City (30 June 2005) -- Once again, per Presidential Executive Order No. 137 dated 10 August 1999 National Disaster Consciousness Month will be observed and activities for the whole month of July have been prepared to mark the significance of the occasion.

There will be a motorcade around Tacloban City on July 7, followed by a Disaster Management Seminar-Workshop at the Ritz Tower de Leyte. The seminar-workshop was made possible through the efforts of Leyte Provincial Governor Carlos Jericho L. Petilla, Chairman of the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council.

Along this line, there will be a display of "Safe Ka Ba?" streamers, posters and flyers distributed through the Local Government Units, some Regional Disaster Coordinating Council member agencies, and various public schools. This year's celebration of the National Disaster Consciousness Month is highlighted by its theme SAFE KA BA? "Programa Laban sa Kalamidad Tungo sa Pag-unlad". National and local TV stations are expected to plug instructional video targeting children conveying the message of disaster preparedness.

Disaster Consciousness Month is celebrated in pursuit of an effective public awareness and involvement in measures put in place by the government for disaster preparedness. (PIA-8)

Ilonggo leaders pledge full support for GMA
Iloilo City (30 June 2005) -- Ilonggo leaders led by Senate President Franklin Drilon once again pledged their full support to President Gloria-Macapagal-Arroyo, as she visited the city for the fifth time around since January 2005.

In introducing her, Sen. Drilon even invited the President to hold office in Iloilo because here she does not have a problem as to the people’s support and confidence. While Arroyo enjoys support from other parts of the country, she has it the most in Iloilo, Drilon said.

With every mention of her name and the _expression of support from local leaders, the President got long strains of applause from the audience.

Iloilo Governor Niel Tupas welcomed her with his _expression of unqualified support which was met with another round of applause. Tupas took the celebration of the Filipino-Spanish Friendship Day as an opportunity to say “without fear of contradiction” that “Iloilo had never wavered in their support.” The electoral mandate that Ilonggos had given her had not diminished an ounce, Tupas added. The governor presented the resolutions of support from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the League of Municipal Mayors, Iloilo Chapter. (PIA)

Four gov't agencies team up for Bright Child project
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (30 June 2005) -- The Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Education and the Department of Interior and Local Government have joined hands with the Council for the Welfare of Children to push the Bright Child campaign and implement it in barangays nationwide.

Bright Child is an umbrella that unifies all Early Childhood Care and Development initiatives in the country.

This multi-agency projects needs supportive community to raise healthy, mentally alert, physically able, happy and intelligent Filipino children.

According to Rose Camero, Senior Social Worker of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office in Negros Oriental, the Bright Child program has been incorporated in the long-term framework for children for 25 years dubbed as Child 21.

The Bright Child project started in 2003 and is one of the bases in coming up with a child-friendly society.

In the province, day care workers are already carrying out the campaign by focusing on the rights of children during their interaction with the day care children here.

As of 2004, there are 909 day care workers and 904 day care centers across the province, reports Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Alicia Lagarde.

The Bright Child campaign boosts the Child 21 program, which Camero says is "a legacy that we will leave for Filipino children of the 21st century to prepare them to face the challenges of the new millennium." (PIA)

PGMA resignation, snap elections not Pinoys' sentiment - Bunye
MANILA (30 June 2005) -- "The calls for the resignation of the President and for the conduct of snap elections are not the general sentiment of the Filipino people."

Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye issued the comment after an angry Susan Roces made calls on President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to step down from presidency.

Bunye said the calls are machinations of the very same people who want to grab power at the expense of democracy and the Constitution.

The Palace official pointed out: "We will not allow this political circus to destroy our gains and push us back to the economic quagmire where the country was once stuck in.

He added that President Arroyo is bent on completing the economic and fiscal reforms that she had started no matter what it takes as this is what the Filipino people have expected her to do. (PIA-MMIO)

883 placed in local & foreign jobs as of May 2005
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (30 June 2005) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) here reported that around 883 applicants from Negros Oriental have been placed in local and overseas jobs as of May 2005.

Of the total, 693 are for local jobs (including deep-sea fishing), the bulk of which are for domestic jobs in Manila, says Kenric Villaluz of the local DOLE.

Villaluz said there were 190 applicants who qualified for overseas jobs, mostly as domestic helpers in Singapore, Hongkong and Taiwan.

The number of Filipinos working abroad grew 3% to 422, 801 as of May on continued demand in overseas markets, the Labor department said.

According to DOLE office in Manila, more than 500,000 Filipinos had been placed in local and overseas jobs as of May 29, 2005, as it denied reports that the government's job generation program had only managed to produce 87,000 jobs almost halfway through 2005. (PIA)

Fil-Spanish day in Iloilo start of era of change, renewal â€" Arroyo
Iloilo City (30 June 2005) -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo hailed the observance of Fil-Spanish Friendship Day in Iloilo as beginning of an era of renewal and change. She said that Filipino-Spanish friendship must not only be about the past but also about a continuing search for exciting opportunities.

The President also said that she was happy to celebrate the occasion in Iloilo, as Iloilo represents loving, kinship, friendship in the Filipino-Spanish relationships.

Arroyo lauded the fact that the Philippines gets the biggest share in Spain’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) in Asia, which can strengthen cultural links, like the putting up of technical and vocational schools for the Out of School Youth.

The economic links, the President said, can be strengthened by Spain’s funding and transfer of technology on alternative resource energy, like wind and solar energies, which are crucial to the economy of the country.

She noted that the crisis in energy has yet to be totally resolved and the development of alternative energy resources in the Philippines through Spain’s help can make solutions accessible.

The President lamented the ever increasing price of oil in the world market which hurts the Philippine economy, but added, that Spain’s strong relations with the country is providential in accelerating the economy.

On the sidelight, she cited her government’s efforts in managing the fiscal resources of the country in order for it to get out of the vicious cycle of borrowing and rely on ourselves to recover, with the help of the legislators, foremost of whom was Senate President Franklin Drilon.

Meanwhile, the President, as in her previous visits to Iloilo, profusely thanked the people and the local officials for their unwavering support to her in the midst of the critical times the country is going through. (PIA 6)

Pintados Kasadyaan street dancing highlights Feast of Sto. Niño celebration
Tacloban City (29 June 2005) -- As Tacloban celebrates the annual feast of Sto. Niño, the Leyte Pintados Foundation presents the traditional display of the Pintados Kasadyaan Street Dancing Festival today. This joyous street dancing around the city will start and end at the Leyte Sports Complex or Grandstand. After the parade, a presentation of the different municipal festivals of the Leyte and Samar provinces will immediately follow.

The Pintados Festival of Tacloban City is a yearly activity held in honor of the miraculous Sto. Niño de Leyte, which showcases our ancestors' practice of body paintings and how they first became christians. It is now being considered as one of the landmark events in Leyte.

The Leyte Kasadyaan Festival of Festivals on the other hand, is a dance-drama parade and dance presentations portraying unique culture, colorful history and the way of life distinct to the different municipalities of the Province. This was first celebrated through the leadership of the then Leyte Governor Remedios "Matin" Petilla. (PIA-AMO

Siquijor adopts "One Town, One Product" program
by R. Calibo
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- All towns in Siquijor province are finally set to enhance each town's "specialty" for the One Town, One Product (OTOP) program.

DTI Provincial Director Ma. Elena C. Arbon said OTOP is a program that allows the locality to focus and converge on a priority product and a branding mechanism that allows people and markets to associate a product to a locality's culture, raw materials and skills.

Under the said program, the following "specialties" have been identified by the towns: banana production/processing for Talingting (Enrique Villanueva); coconut processing for Maria; woodcraft for Larena; ceramics for Lazi; dairy production for San Juan; and tourism for the town of Siquijor.

An adaptation of Japan's successful OTOP program, OTOP Philippines is a priority program of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to promote entrepreneurship and create jobs.

Negotiators in the next World Trade Organization talks are instructed to take special note of the Philippines' concern of obtaining new market access for its products while preserving needed flexibilities for special products in the agricultural and industrial goods sectors.

The National Economic and Development Authority expects the country's domestic economy to improve slightly in the second half due to better farm production.

Through OTOP, Arbon said local chief executives will take the lead in identifying, developing and promoting a specific product or service which has a competitive advantage. (PIA)

Metro Manila urban poor leaders sign manifesto of support to PGMA
Manila (29 June 2005) -- Urban poor leaders from all over Metro Manila signed a manifesto of support to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during the "Kongreso ng Masa" held today at the Riverbanks Complex in Marikina City.

The manifesto condemns the prevailing practice of using gutter politics taking to task politicians who use these tactics for their own interests.

"Masa Bansa" Secretary-General, Norland D. Soriano criticized the fake crusade for truth being waged by some politicians, "Suportahan natin ang Pangulong Gloria, tapusin at wakasan na natin ang pulitikang bulok, kailangan na magkaisa tayo," he said.

Haji Mohammad Sultan, President of the Baclaran Muslim Vendors Group expressed support to PGMA saying they would like the President to continue with her livelihood and housing projects. In fact, he added that some 58 hectares of land in Las Piñas were already awarded to the Muslim community.

The urban poor leaders also called on all government officials to support the President's reform agenda so that the poor can continuously feel the gains of economic growth.

They also appealed to Congress to stop the ongoing investigation as it leads to nowhere and instead focus on the developmental projects to address the plight of the urban poor.

The people's congress was convened by Masa Bansa, a nationwide organization of urban poor dwellers. Other NGO's present at the Kongreso ng Masa included Samasama, People's Patriotic Movement (PPM), Unified Patriotic Organization of the Philippines (UPTOP), Baclaran Muslim Vendors Group, Baseco settlers Association and Luzviminda National Transport Federation.

Following is the text of the manifesto:

Kongreso ng Masa
Hunyo 29, 2005
Riverbanks, Marikina
Ang Kongreso ng Masa na binubuo ng iba't-ibang organisasyon ng maralitang tagalunsod na lumagda sa Kasunduan ng Pagkakaisa noong Hunyo 23, 2004 ay sumasang-ayon na tanggapin at ipatupad ang mga sumusunod na pahayag bilang tugon o sagot sa mga isyung bumabagabag sa bansa.

1.   Kinokondena ng Kongreso ng Masa ang umiiral na pulitika ng imburnal na sinusulong ng mga pulitikong nais lamang itulak ang mga mapansarili at mababaw na layuning pampulitika. Walang mabuting mapapala ang maralita sa kanilang pekeng krusada para sa katotohanan sapagkat ang krusadang ito ay maghahatid sa ating bansa sa bangin ng anarkiya at kandungan ng mas matinding paghihirap.

2.   Nais naming mga dukha na ituloy ng pamahalaan ang nasimulang mga serbisyo at reporma. Bagama't malayo pang makaangat sa kahirapan ang nakararami, hindi naming ikakaila na mukhang tama ang direksyon ng pamahalaan sa pagtugon sa suliranin ng kahirapan tulad ng mga ginagawang hakbang sa pabahay, reporma sa lupa, pagkakaroon ng malinis na tubig, pagkakaroon ng sistemang pangkalusugan, mga hakbang laban sa katiwalian at iba pa.

3.   Kakaiba ang ginawang pagpapakumbaba ng Pangulong Gloria sa kanyang pag-amin ng pagkakamali at paghingi ng tawad sa sambayanan. Kailangan nating alalahanin na mas masahol pa ang ginawang kabulastugan at katiwalian ng mga nakaraang Pangulo ng Pilipinas na pinatawad ng taumbayan kahit na hindi humingi ng kaukulang patawad. Lalong hindi maaring magmalinis ang mga pulitikong walang ginawa kundi magsiklab ng gulo at mamato ng putik. Hindi dapat ipagmaramot ng mamamayan ang pagbigay tawad sa isang Pangulong umamin ng pagkakamali at humingi ng tawad gayong hindi naman tuwirang labag sa batas ang nagawang pagkakasala. Dahil sa pananaw na ito, tinatanggap ng Kongreso ng Masa ang paghingi ng tawad ng Pangulong Gloria at umaasa na ito na lalong pagiigtingin ng Pangulo ang pagtugon sa pangangailangan ng maralita.

4.   Mahalagang suportahan ng lahat ng sangay at ahensiya nang pamahalaan ang mga programang pangreporma ng Pangulo upang makaabot sa mahihirap ang ginhawa ng paglago ng ekonomiya at serbisyo ng gobyerno. Nananawagan kami kay Pangulong Gloria na kailangang sibakin agad sa katungkulan ang mga opisyal na pabigat lamang sa pamahalaan at nagsasawalang kibo sa daing ng mga maralita.

Sana ay magsilbing gabay ang pahayag na ito sa lahat ng Pilipino.

Ang Masa ay nagkakaisa ayon sa diwang makabansa. Sana naman ay magkaisa na rin ang pamunuan ng Pilipinas para sa kapakanan ng ating mahal na bansa.

Mabuhay ang lahing Pilipino! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

PGMA should hang on, says local church leader
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- A high-ranking senior Church official in Negros Oriental called on the people to "go straight" and continue working for the good of the country and not to be distracted by attempts of some political groups that threaten to thrust the country into another political crisis.

Msgr. Merlin Logronio said Pres. Gloria Arroyo is not the worst president we have had and she is not a stumbling block to the country's growth. "She may not be the best president we've had, but I'd rather respect her now for the sake of the country," says Msgr. Logronio who now sits as parish priest of Bacong town.

The Cebu Archdiocese has earlier slammed rumors of another "power grab" and called on the Cebuano faithful to pray for the country and its leaders.

Msgr. Logronio said the Filipino people is now "broken and splintered because we allow the opposition to do whatever they want," adding that in the process, "we're only destroying ourself."

The Church leader said the President should hang on for as long as she could since the opposition is trying to pull her down "without even presenting the best likely candidate who will replace her."

The monsignor said the opposition should instead wait for the next elections because "it is the people who determine the strength of the country and not the political leaders."

Msgr. Logronio's reaction came in the heels of the call of two senior Church leaders of the Roman Catholic Church pushing for changes in the government but not necessarily the ouster of the president who is under siege for allegedly taking part in wiretapped conversations to rig the results of the May 10, 2004 polls. (PIA)

Most Pinoys still believe PGMA - Bunye
MANILA (29 June 2005) -- "We believe that most of them (Filipino people) still believe in the President and consider her as the last hope in moving forward with the economic gains posted under her leadership."

The statement was made by Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye as President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's confession on the wiretapped conversation reportedly failed to grant her wish that the controversy be ended to allow her to "move on with the business of governing."

Bunye said the outburst of emotions from President Arroyo's detractors over her statement is a far cry of the hand of forgiveness extended by ordinary Filipinos.

He pointed out that the Filipino people are more concerned about the movement of their lives amid economic hardships.

"We have more pressing problems to face and must move on; kicking and cursing will get us nowhere," the Palace official added. (PIA-MMIO)

Longest, largest motorcycle parade to highlight Buglasan 2005 celebration
by J. Tilos
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- As early this week, Buglasan 2005 activities have been lined up, including the 'longest or largest motorcycle parade' as an entrant for the Guiness World Record.

Negros Oriental has more than 29,000 motorcycles registered with the Land Transportation Office last year, of which the highest horde come from Dumaguete. These include big bikes, DTs and so called 'Econopower' which is the most popular.

In preparation for the forthcoming Buglasan festivals this year, the organizers agreed to include the motorcycle parade not only to establish Dumaguete's title as 'Motorcycle Capital of the Philippines' where motorcycles of all types and sizes abound but also to put Dumaguete in the map and land a spot in the Guiness Book of World Records.

Owner-driven motorcycles in the province are encouraged to participate and register their motorcycles at the Provincial Tourism Office.

The participant will be given a flaglet to be attached to the motorcycle, issued in sequence, which serves as the event's official souvenir. The entry forms and numbers may be allocated by bulk to schools, offices, clubs or individuals among others.

Awards and special prizes await participants, drawn by raffle or as the oldest, youngest, heaviest driver, biggest and most colorful groups.

Of the 51 activities calendared for the week-long Buglasan festival celebration on October 12 to 23, 2005, ten events are added for this year which include: motorcycle parade, inter-LGU cheerdance and band competition, kayaking, dance-sport, skin boarding, Tayada, skate boarding, high school basketball tournament, and the launching of the one-stop-shop center for the province. (PIA)

PGMA to grace Phil-Spain friendship day
Iloilo City (29 June 2005) -- President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo will lead guests in the celebration of Philippine-Spain Friendship Day at the Capitol Building today.

On the Spanish side, no less than the Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines will grace the affair where Iloilo Governor Niel Tupas will ceremonially turn over the Iloilo symbolic key to him.

During the program at the Capitol, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo will give her message after being introduced by Senator Franklin Drilon.

Aside from joining the celebration of the Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day, President Arroyo will also inaugurate the Jalandoni Bridge and the Seamen's Hospital Iloilo, a satellite facility of the Associated Marine Officers' and Seamen's Union of the Philippines.

This is the fifth visit of the President to Iloilo this year.

It will recalled that Iloilo became of interest to Spanish conquistadors in l965 when it was discovered to be a source of rice, causing Legaspi to proceed here from Cebu. When they came to Iloilo, they immediately made the province the missionary base for the conversion of the region to Christianity. Iloilo also became a Spanish naval station, a jumping off point of Spanish expeditions against the Dutch and the Philippine Muslims and the supply base of Spanish garrisons in the Moluccas. Recognizing the importance of Iloilo in the economic field, the Spanish crown opened the port of Iloilo to foreign trade in l855. The historic decision set off an unprecedented progress for Iloilo which continued until World War II broke out.

As part of the celebration, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce with the Spanish Commercial Office, Embassy of Spain will sponsor 'Feria Espanola", June 29-30 at the Grand Ballroom of the Hotel del Rio. Sixteen exhibitors are joining in the trade fair showcasing Spanish products. (PIA-6)

The 'Motorcycle Capital of the Philippines' on KNN
by J. Tilos
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- Dumaguete City as the "Motorcycle Capital of the Philippines" was featured at the Kabataan News Network (KNN) on June 4, 2005.

KNN took viewers to the streets of Dumaguete City where motorcycles of all types and sizes abound, which earned the city the title "Motorcycle Capital of the Philippines."

KNN's young crew of six selected students from Dumaguete reports that of the total number of motorcycles registered with the Land Transportation Office, the biggest horde come from Dumaguete. These include big bikes, DTs and the so-called "Econopower," which is the most popular.

Statistics show that 30 percent of young people below the age of 18 are already driving motorcycles although the law provides that only Filipinos 18 years old and above can be issued a valid driver's license.

The segment also tackled other concerns on motorcycling such as accidents involving minors, safety gear and compliance to traffic rules.

KNN, the only TV show produced, written and shot by Filipinos aged 15-18, is produced by Unicef Philippines and the Probe Media Foundation and airs every Sunday at 11 a.m. on NBN 4 and daily on Nickelodeon as short segments.

Viewers are invited to send story ideas to KNN by e-mailing knn_@hotmail.com.

Special prizes await senders with great ideas. (PIA)

Disabled person becomes successful entrepreneur
By Freddie G. Lazaro
VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (29 June 2005) -- Maria S. Etongan, 39, of Pantay Fatima, Vigan City probed that her physical handicapped was not a hindrance to be successful with help of the Self â€" Employment Assistance â€" Kaunlaran (SEA-K) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Manang Maria, as she was fondly called was a polio victim who was married to a fellow polio victim in 1999. After getting married she started her small sari-sari store in a shanty stall along the sidewalk of the Vigan town’s public market.

Armed with experience, strong faith in God coupled with strong fighting spirit, she managed well her sariâ€"sari store despite reaching only elementary level due to poverty..

In year 2000, she diverted her business into Ukay â€" Ukay (used clothing) selling in the city public market. She borrowed P3,000.00 as her additional beginning capital from the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) of Vigan through the SEA-K program.

Two years after, she fully paid her loan and again borrowed another P5, 000.00 from CSWD and expanded her Ukay-ukay business. After a year, she re-loaned P10, 000.00 as an additional capital for another expansion of her business.

From shanty stall, Manang Maria now is renting two attractive and convenient stalls in the Vigan City Public Market for her business, that served as the family’sr means of income. Out of the business, she managed to built a concrete house.

Blessed with only one child, Manang Maria shares her prosperity by helping her relatives and fellow disabled person in the city. With her wholehearted support and her capacity to help the physically handicapped individual, she was chosen as the pioneer president of the Vigan Differentlyâ€"able Association or the so-called VIDA. (PIA Ilocos)

PGMA strengthened by act of truth-telling - Bunye
MANILA (29 June 2005) -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has been strengthened by the act of truth-telling when she courageously admitted responsibility over a "lapse of judgement" conversation with an Election official.

Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye issued the statement in response to Standard and Poor's Ratings Services report that President Arroyo's admission could intensify political disturbances and hurt the implementation of fiscal reforms.

Bunye said the statement of apology of the President has already settled the issue of who is in the Captain's seat and who has the moral authority to lead the country.

He added that things will quiet down as the processes of government are no longer hobbled by controversy as the country made a good start in focusing anew to the implementation of economic and fiscal reforms. (PIA-MMIO)

Sec. Abad leads Visayas launching of pre-school education nutrition and feeding program
Iloilo City (29 June 2005) -- Education Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad will lead the Visayas Launching of the Pre-School Education, Nutrition and Feeding program at the Jaro I elementary School, June 30, 2005.

Sec. Abad, together with the city Mayor Jerry Trenas and the Department of Education officials, will participate in the feeding of 196 nursery and kinder I and II pupils of Jaro I Elementary School, who will be provided with fresh milk and coco-buns.

The activity is the start of a year-long feeding program for all pre-schoolers of DepEd managed PTCA funded school numbering about 2800 and pre-schoolers of Baranagay Day Care Centers and 10,774 in the Division of Iloilo City. Other recipients will be the identified malnourished Grade I pupils in all public elementary schools.

The program is funded by the Special Education Fund (SEF) of the city costing about 1.5 million pesos. For the year 2005-2006, the SEF provides an equity of P100,000 worth of Fresh Milk provided by the National Dairy Authority (NDA), while the Philippine Coconut Authority supplies the coco-bun.

The Supplementary Feeding activities include serving of fresh cow’s milk and coco-bun daily for 120 feeding days while other district schools will be served with hot noodles and milo or chocolate. The feeding is served during breakfast, complemented with learning good habits and values, like washing of hands before eating, observing proper eating habits and table manners and brushing of teeth after eating.

The Pre-School Education and Supplemental Feeding Program is part of the government’s move in incorporating pre-school in the education ladder to encourage early childhood development. This program is implemented on the premise that “well-nourished children can perform well in school and will have the capacity to absorb information and to learn skills better than those who are under or malnourished. (PIA 6)

Campaign vs. malaria in NegOr
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- With more malaria cases reported this year, the Department of Health in Negros Oriental is continually conducting massive blood survey and vector control in endemic-prone areas in the province.

Already 12 cases have been reported since January to March this year, a big increase from the total six (6) cases recorded in 2004.

Of the 12 malaria cases reported, eight are from Nagbinlod, Sta. Catalina; two from Bayawan City; and one each from Basay and Siaton.

Suzy Sayre, Officer in Charge Provincial Malaria Coordinator of DOH, in an interview said that malaria cases usually occur in rural areas where there is slow-flowing water and shady areas.

DOH field attendant workers are regularly conducting house-to-house blood survey where a blood smear is collected from febrile cases or persons with fever in the identified endemic-prone areas in the province.

According to Sayre, the said areas are Mabinay, Tanjay City, Pamplona, Amlan, San Jose, Sibulan, Siaton, Sta. Catalina, Bayawan City and Basay.

She explains that malaria is spread by anopheles, the mosquito infected with malaria.

Symptoms include fever, headache, body malaise (tiredness) and profuse sweating. (PIA)

Local execs in NegOr back PGMA - Gov. Arnaiz
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- Governor George P. Arnaiz yesterday (June 20) declared his full support for President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during a press conference attended by local chief executives nationwide.

In a press conference covered by national major media networks in the country, the governor said the provincial government of Negros Oriental is behind the President as almost all mayors and all members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan here are supportive of the Arroyo administration.

The governor's show of support came in the heels of the announcement of the 1.5-million strong Union of Local Authorities as they voiced out their full support behind Pres. Arroyo and condemned any and all forms of extra constitutional moves to effect changes in the government.

Overseas Filipino Workers in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Greece also expressed support to the President, and called on the opposition to stop trying to discredit the Arroyo administration.

At least nine business groups in the Visayas have expressed their unconditional support to the current administration, amidst the allegations and accusations hurled against her and her family.

Amidst the attempts to undermine the Arroyo administration, the President has asked the public to remain calm as administration officials lambasted various groups, particularly the opposition, for pushing "orchestrated" moves to oust Pres. Arroyo.

The Church has recently announced their position in favor of the President, pointing to what they call is the absence of "compelling reasons and circumstances that would warrant for the change in the Presidency" and welcoming "a change in the attitude in the culture of graft and corruption, economic poverty, gambling, and traditional politics through a change in the way of governance."

Presidential Spokesperson Ignacio Bunye said that separate investigations on jueteng and wiretapping will lead to more destructive politics.

"The Filipino people want to hear more of how well we are faring in improving our economy rather than the never-ending political squabbles that are dividing our nation and setting back the clock on investments, jobs and better services."

He called on the opposition to desist and respond to the call of unity behind the welfare of the people. (PIA)

NFA braces for lean months in Misor, Bukidnon
by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
Cagayan de Oro City (29 June 2005) -- THE National Food Authority in Misamis Oriental is bracing for the 3rd quarter of the year, often described as the lean months by allocating more bags of rice compared to the other periods of the year.

During a recent interview at the “Normindanaw” TV program, Victoria R. Duray, provincial manager of NFA-Misamis Oriental, said, this year, some 326,000 bags of rice have been targeted for distribution to the entire province of Misamis Oriental comprising 24 municipalities and two cities to include five towns of Northern Bukidnon, particularly, Baungon, Malitbog, Manolo Fortich, Talakag and Libona.

The “Normindanaw” is simulcast over COC-TV39 and radio station DXJR based in Cagayan de Oro City, every Tuesday afternoon, from 2:00-3:00 p.m. hosted by Area Manager Olivia T. Sudaria of the Philippine Information Agency, Region 10.

“We wanted to be sure that NFA rice will really be available inside major and minor markets of these areas and that they are sold at the right price of P16/kg. for regular-milled and P18/kg. for well-milled rice. As such, we have allocated 20,000 sacks of rice each or 18.40% of our allocation for the entire year for the 1st and 2nd quarters,” Duray said.

However, “We had to make adjustments for the 3rd quarter as we will be experiencing the start of the lean months in July. By then NFA will increase its intervention in the market,” she further said.

Specifically for the period, 148,000 bags or 45.40% of the allocation will be distributed as follows: July, 50,000 bags; August, 58,000 bags; and September, 40,000 bags.

“After an expected harvest at the end of the 3rd quarter, another adjustment of 58,000 bags or 17.80% of the year’s allocation will be done during the 4th quarter: October, 20,000 bags; November, 18,000; and December, 20,000 bags” Duray again said.

Compared to actual sales, however, some 91,341 bags of rice have already been sold in the 1st quarter, while sales for April and May in the 2nd quarter have been placed at 84,757 bags, exceeding by 52.23% and 41.26%, respectively, the distribution targets of both periods.

Meanwhile, “We are now scouting for the strategic positions of our rolling stores and will be coordinating closely with the association of the grains retailers and the chief executives of local government units to help us monitor and ensure that NFA rice is sold at prescribed prices to our intended beneficiaries, the marginalized sector,” Duray emphasized.

On the other hand, during her June 16, 2005 visit to Northern Mindanao, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo stressed that her administration is engrossed on the war to fight poverty and expressed delight that her economic agenda has started to bear fruit.

Bringing prices of commodities like rice under control is included among the concerns of Phase 2 of the said agenda. The others are stronger tax enforcement, energy conservation and increased initiatives to fight graft and corruption.

As Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said, the government is on track to bring in P85.3 billion more income taxes and that tax collections increased by 18% in May, this year.

“The country is moving towards a balanced budget by 2008. The gross domestic product (GDP) growth is projected to exceed 5% and there is no let up in the relentless campaign against graft and corruption in the national and local government levelsâ€"all dovetailing the vow of President Arroyo to push Phase 2 of her economic reforms,” he said. (PIA-10)

DTI-7: Cebu exports registers 6% growth for 1st qtr
Cebu City (29 June 2005) -- Cebu exports registered a growth of six percent for the first quarter this year with corresponding monetary value of US $998.98M based on the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI-7) record.

Products from Cebu that are being exported abroad include electronics, furniture, fashion accessories, processed foods, gifts, toys & housewares (GTH), among others. The figure for the second quarter has yet to be released by the DTI-7.

DTI-7 chief of the Institutional Development Division Rose Mae Quiñanola expressed optimism that the value of exports in the region would continue to rise in spite of projections that the demand for electronic products could slow down.

The electronics sector comprised 24 percent of the total export industry in Cebu, according to Quiñanola. Electronic items manufactured here that are being shipped to other countries include electronic components, telephone sound and video apparatus, print cartridge, computer magnetic discs, camera paraphernalia, cellular phone parts and electronic watches.

For the past three years, the value of Cebu exports has been on an uptrend from 2002 to 2004 as seen in the comparative trade and industry indicators report of the DTI-7. In 2002, exports grew by three percent worth US $ 686.5M that increased to 12 percent in 2003 at US $ 770.56M. Last year, the growth in exports soared to 23 percent with US $943.98M.

The Trade Department signified confidence that even with an anticipated slowdown of electronics shipments, the 10 percent projected growth of the country's exports by yearend is achievable. (PIA-7)

E-Crediting now open in GSIS Dumaguete
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- Members of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) in Negros Oriental can now avail of the E-Crediting program at the GSIS branch in Dumaguete City.

GSIS has earlier announced that starting August 1 this year, GSIS will credit the proceeds of its members' salary loans through the GSIS eCard, completing the first phase of its EGranting program that aims to eliminate paper work and the writing of checks in the disbursement of GSIS loan, claims and benefits.

However, local GSIS Information Officer Jaydon Villaverde said the local GSIS office started the E-Crediting system effective last June 24, 2005.

Villaverde said GSIS members who wish to apply for an Enhanced Salary Loan (ESL) will have to first fill out the new application form from GSIS. "Old forms for ESL will no longer be received by GSIS," says Villaverde.

Applicants will then secure a tentative computation of their proceeds from GSIS and the member has to agree with the said computation before his/her ESL application will be processed.

Processing time for ESL is within one day upon submission of the new application form together with the applicant's tentative computation. "This is real time crediting, and upon approval of the loan and uploading to the applicant's account, GSIS will send a text or email to the applicant informing his/her of the loan approval," explains Villaverde.

The member can then withdraw the ESL proceeds from his/her UnionBank eCard account. "No more clearing time for checks unlike before," she added.

For inquiries about eCrediting, members can call Mrs. Annabel Escorial at tel. no. 2261955. (PIA)

Basco field school produces 20 graduates
BASCO, Batanes (29 June 2005) -- Personnel at the Basco DEMO farm in Sitio Malayo in this premiere town of Batanes had successfully transferred its technical expertise in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in vegetable production after 20 farmers graduated in IPM management thru the use of botanical pest controller and use of beneficial organic waste as fertilizer.

This activity is a joint project of Department of Land Reform (DLR) under the Agrarian Reform Community Development Program 2 (ARCDP2) in tandem with the Provincial Agricultural Office thru the Local Government Unit of Batanes.

The graduates in the Farmers Field School (FFS) are expected to lead the dissemination of Integrated Pest Management in vegetables to their fellow residents and further enhance their capability in producing vegetable products.

The graduates have undergone 6-month training and practicum which was started on January 28 until today.

The training program on IPM will be continuously conducted in other municipalities of Batanes in succeeding semesters to be undertaken by DLR and LGU Batanes. (PIA-Batanes)

TESDA urges vigilance vs. unauthorized school fees
by Elaine O. Ratunil
Cagayan de Oro City (29 June 2005) -- THE Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Bukidnon is urging students and the general public to help them monitor and report cases of technical-vocational schools charging unauthorized fees.

In a statement, TESDA-Bukidnon said there are schools that are not complying with TESDA requirements, especially on fees being imposed on students.

TESDA-Bukidnon provincial director Marjorie P. Nilo said appropriate sanctions will be imposed on erring institutions.

Nilo said they are closely monitoring various institutions in the province to ensure students’ access to technical-vocational courses.

This effort is part of the thrust of TESDA to develop the Filipino workforce with world-class competence and positive work values under President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s 10-point agenda.

Under the10-point agenda and the President’s economic reforms are putting the country’s fiscal house in order, sustaining investment confidence, and fostering the political and economic climate for more jobs and better social services. (PIA-10

Commentary: The act of truth telling: signal of a fresh start
Baguio City (29 June 2005) -- The outburst of emotions from the President’s detractors over her statement is a far cry of the hand of forgiveness extended by ordinary Filipinos. The President’s statement of apology signals another fresh start. There are more pressing problems to face and must move on; kicking and cursing will get us nowhere. The Filipino people are more concerned about the improvement of their lives amid economic hardships, and most of them still believe in President Arroyo.

The markets are still in a wait-and-see posture. The President has spoken but now the sector awaits concrete action. For our part, we must press-on dishing out very swift, very big and very bold moves to reform our society once and for all. We have finally let the cat out of the bag and we should not waste time in regaining the initiative. The President met with business leaders yesterday and it is hoped that their positive perception and confidence will have the natural effect of allaying concerns over the economy.

The Presidency has been strengthened by the act of truth telling. The President’s statement of apology has already settled the issue of who is in the Captain’s seat and who has the moral authority to lead this country. Things will quiet down as the processes of government are no longer hobbled by controversy. The government is making a good start in focusing anew to the implementation of economic and fiscal reforms. (PIA)

CDO safety drills to highlight disaster month observance
by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
Cagayan de Oro City (29 June 2005) -- THE conduct of disaster preparedness workshops and safety drills by the different disaster coordinating councils (DCCs) in Region 10 will be among the highlights during the observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month in July, this year.

“These activities are focused on the advocacy about disaster preparedness and its mitigating measures to ensure readiness of the local folk against any eventuality that may happen anytime,” Salvador Estudillo, Regional Director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Region 10 said.

“They are also aimed at answering the basic question of “Safe Ka Ba? (Are You Safe),” this year’s theme of the observance,” Estudillo also said.

The question is directed to the public to determine how safe they are from TYPHOONS that cause flooding and landslides, EARTHQUAKES that cause buildings, homes and other structures to collapse, VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS that cause ashfalls, pyroclastics, lahar and lava flows, and TSUNAMIS that cause widespread destruction of coastal areas.

As scheduled, the month-long observance starts with the hanging of the “Safe Ka Ba?” Streamers from July 1-3 to heighten public awareness and greater understanding of hazards and specific vulnerabilities, while the simultaneous launching of the observance in all towns and cities of the region has been set on July 4.

Particularly for the Northern Mindanao regional offices, the activities will include radio/TV guestings by officials from OCD, Mines and Geosciences Bureau, PHIVOLCS, PAGASA and the Philippine Information Agency to talk about the National Disaster Preparedness Program and the evaluation of nominees for the 2005 Regional Gawad Kalasag Search for Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance .

The safety drills to be conducted by the different provincial, city and municipal DCCs, Estudillo said, will include the incidence of bomb threat, fire and earthquake, while the trainings and seminars will include those on Disaster Management, Incident Command System, Contingency Planning Formulation and Barangay-based Disaster Preparedness and Basic Life Support.

Other activities of the DCCs are tree planting and clean-up drive in dumping areas, creeks and coastal areas.

Awarding ceremonies for winners in this year’s Regional Gawad KALASAG Awards will be done during the culmination program on July 31, Estudillo said.

Meanwhile, Department of Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza announced the formation of a committee on rescue and relief operations aimed at aiding the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) in the rescue and relief operations during emergency cases.

On the other hand, in a bid to mitigate loss of lives and damage to property during severe weather conditions, the PAGASA is reminding the public to heed storm warning signals issued before and during the onslaught of storms or typhoons. (PIA-10)

Emano postpones Taiwan visit
Cagayan de Oro City (29 June 2005) -- CAGAYAN de Oro City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano is putting on hold his visit to Tainan City, Taiwan in deference to the present volatile political situation of the country.

Scheduled to leave late this month for another round of trade mission and sisterhood city tie-up in Taiwan, Mayor Emano said postponing the foreign trip would be for the best interest of the city.

“Not now. This time isn’t appropriate yet,” the mayor clarified the postponement today.

It may be recalled that in May this year, Tainan City Mayor Tain-Tsair Hsu invited Mayor Emano to visit Tainan and ink pact with his city.

Mayor Hsu expressed hopes of a greater development in relationship between the two cities in the areas of culture, art, business, sports and education.

The Tainan City mayor also stressed that the sisterhood relationship of both cities will be based on the interest of peace and mutual advantage.

He added that the sisterhood would develop friendly relations and promote inter-municipal exchanges and communication. (City Information Office/Ragcom)

School happy to be launching pad of pre-school feeding program
Iloilo City (29 June 2005) -- Jaro I Elementary School officials, teachers and parents are elated with their school being the launching venue for the Pre-School Education Nutrition and Feeding Program of government through the Department of Education and its allied agencies and entities.

School principal Ms. Bebianita Masna said they are happy that the activity will showcase the relentless efforts of government in addressing early childhood development needs and the rising cases of malnutrition.

Ms. Masna said that the program is a boost to their on-going Applied Nutrition Program (ANP) and assures the pre-schoolers of more attention in their nutritional needs, together with the identified malnourished Grade I pupils.

The ANP in their school serves about 251 children, through percentage sharing in their canteen and the produce of their local agriculture program, which grows many kinds of vegetables, cooked and served by their Nutritionist/ANP Coordinator.

Ms. Masna further said that the parents are all-out in their support and participation in the Pre-School Education Nutrition and Feeding Program considering the fact that their growing children need all the early care as to proper intake in order to cope with the demands of active, healthy living.

The launching of the program in their school is also a signal for all schools in the Division of Iloilo to put more vigor in their ANP and for all sectors to cooperate, Masna added. (PIA 6)

96% of barangays in NORECO2 area power-linked
by J. Tilos
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- The Negros Oriental Electric Cooperative II said that 96% of the total barangays in Negros Oriental have already been energized.

The Department of Energy has recently announced that 96.2 percent of the country's barangays now have electrification, 0r 38,850 barangays out of 41,945 as of last April.

According to NORECO II Institutional Services Department Manager Leovigildo Elmaco, the electric cooperative is mandated by P.D. 262 or the Rural Electrification Law to provide power to the total 272 barangays in Negros Oriental.

Of the total, 263 have already been energized.

NORECO II's coverage stretches from Pamplona to Basay. (PIA)

Customs assures Dumaguete port 99% safe
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- The local Customs chief assured that the Dumaguete port is safe and that all security measures are being strictly implemented.

Dr. Medolita N. Cabanag, Acting Port Collector of Customs, gave the assurance after the Bureau of Customs has tightened its inspection of all incoming shipments following the recent apprehensions of contraband at the Manila port, the latest of which was a large shipment of guns allegedly for destabilizers of the government.

Cabanag said there are no big foreign vessels that dock at the Dumaguete port for importation. "Our port is an export-oriented port for coconut oil, copra, molasses and ammonium nitrate," says Cabanag.

But still security measures are strictly implemented at the Dumaguete port. The Bureau of Customs, Maritime Police, Coast Guard and if the situation calls for it, the NBI and CIDG, all work as one team in seeing to the security of the port here, assures Cabanag.

Aside from this, several plainclothesmen are also roaming the port, keeping an eye on the cargos. (PIA)

Soldiers ambushed in Samar by NPA terrorists
Tacloban City (29 June 2005) -- Reports coming in from the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army say that six (6) soldiers assigned at their command and three (3) civilians on board a Lite Ace van headed for Tacloban City were ambushed by some 30 communist terrorists utilizing landmines at the vicinity of Brgy. Balanti, Basey, Samar at 8:45 a.m. yesterday, 28 June 2005. Two (2) soldiers were killed while four (4) soldiers were wounded. Among the fatalities were one (1) civilian killed and two (2) civilians wounded. Two (2) high powered firearms were also carted away by the communist terrorists. The Lite Ace Vehicle was destroyed by the landmine.

In a press release issued by Cpt. Cromwell I. Danganan, it was learned that soldiers of whom only two were armed and in uniform while the rest were in civilian attire together with the two wives of the soldiers and one civilian resident from a nearby barangay of Villa Aurora of Basey, were on their way to Tacloban City to procure food and supplies when they were land mined and ambushed by the NPA terrorists. The civilian casualties, whose identities are yet to be disclosed, including the wounded soldiers, were immediately brought to a hospital in Tacloban City for treatment.

It was further revealed that the perpetrators who also used M60 machineguns were led by a communist terrorist leader of the Southern Samar Front-2 (SSF-2) operating in the southern portion of Samar Island.

According to Danganan, the commanding general of the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army MGen Jovito S. Palparan, Jr. issued a statement saying that "this incident confirms that the CPP/NPA is a Godless organization and do not respect human rights. The cold blooded murder and excessive use of force to sow fear in the hearts of the people of Samar is a trademark of a terrorist organization. Indeed, the Communist Terrorists can resort to terrorist acts with total disregard of human rights and civilian lives. As Commanding General of the 8th ID, I condemn this murder of two soldiers and the civilian woman in the strongest possible terms. I call upon our citizens, people's organizations and the so-called human rights groups to condemn the Communist Terrorists as well. I challenge the Bayan Muna and the militants to condemn the NPA and the Communist Party". He concluded by saying that "I would like to further assure the people of Region 8 that the 8th Infantry Division in close coordination with the Philippine National Police must relentlessly pursue these lawless elements who are terrorizing our people."

Danganan in his press release further said that the names of the casualties are withheld for the moment as the 8ID deems it necessary to inform their family first. At present, the bereaved family of the casualties and the 8th Infantry Division are preparing to file criminal charges against the perpetrators of this cruel incident. (PIA)

Crimes vs women, children decrease in NegOr
by R.Nessia
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- The Provincial Women's and Children's Desk at the Provincial Police Office noted a decrease in the number of cases on violence against women and children reported in the province this year.

Data collated from police stations provincewide show that a total of 37 cases on violence against women (VAW) and 36 cases of crimes against children have been recorded from January to March this year.

PO2 Maricris Sacristan said the number of reported cases decreased vis-à-vis last year's records which show a total of 188 VAW cases and 88 on crimes against children reported during the same period last year.

However, there has been a slight increase in the number of cases reported in Dumaguete City, according to City Police Office's Women's and Children's Desk Officer Josefa Lacandula.

Cases filed under RA 9262 or the Violence Against Women and Children Act have also increased this year.

As of May this year, a total of 57 cases each on VAW and crimes against children have been reported, said Sacristan.

Total cases last year numbered to 280 on crimes against children and 521 on VAW.

Reported VAW cases involve rape, attempted rape, acts of lasciviousness, wife battery and parricide while for crimes against children - rape, incestuous rape, acts of lasciviousness, child trafficking and physical injury.

There are currently three rehabilitation centers for abused women and children here, namely, La Casa Esperanza, Bahay Mo Bahay Ko and Friendship Home, says Senior Social Worker Jeanette Villarubia of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office.

Villarubia said the centers provide temporary shelter for women and children who are either victims of physical abuse, in need of special protection, emotionally disturbed or in crisis situations.

City Social Welfare and Development Officer Marina Mendoza explained that women and children, whose lives are at risk and need to be stay away from home, particularly if their perpetrators are still at large, are also given shelter at La Casa.

Some 18 children are currently staying at La Casa Esperanza, which is being run by Kauban Foundation and supported by the city government.

Rehabilitation efforts for perpetrators of domestic violence are also underway as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has started its community-based rehabilitation program focusing on the improvement of domestic violence perpetrators as individuals with emphasis on anger management and self-control.

However, Mendoza said this is not yet being implemented in Dumaguete City. "We have not yet been trained, and this needs special skills because perpetrators are also people with problems," she said. (PIA)

Oro dads cite 1st adventure race organizers
Cagayan de Oro City (29 June 2005) -- FOR successfully putting Cagayan de Oro on the map of adventure racing, the City Council passed resolution 2005-344, expressing the city’s congratulations and appreciation to the organizers of the 1st Cagayan de Oro Adventure Race (first leg), which was successfully held last June 10-11.

The city council appreciated the efforts of Photographic Touch Design and Concepts, Sinkhole Ventures Inc., Cagayan de Oro Whitewater Rafting Association, and Viajero Outdoor for coming up with the activity, which was aimed at promoting the city as the Adventure Capital of the Philippines.

Aside from the organizers, the council also thanked the sponsors of the activity for making the event possible.

In a related development, the race organizers will be conducting a special skills training on paddling and rappelling on July 16 at the riverbank of Barangay 1, to prepare participants for the 2nd leg of the adventure race, which will be held on August 18-20.

The pre-fiesta activity will involve various disciplines like rafting, rappelling, biking, trekking, climbing, and swimming, and will take participants all over the city.

Already, teams from Manila, Davao City, Gingoog City, and Misamis Oriental have signified interest to join the race. (City Information Office/Ragcom)

11% hike in tourist influx recorded in 2004
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- Tourists from USA and other countries continue to be drawn to Dumaguete City as the City Tourism Office reported an increase of 11 percent in tourist influx last year compared to 2003 statistics.

A total of 140,038 tourist arrivals were recorded last year.

The bulk of tourist arrivals in Dumaguete are domestic tourists numbering 124,273 in 2004, followed by foreign tourists with15,765.

According to Annie Jalandoni, City Tourism Operations Officer 2, Americans topped the list of foreign tourist arrivals last year numbering 3,819, followed by Japanese tourists with 3,173 and Koreans with 1,824.

Jalandoni said German tourists used to be the third biggest number of foreign tourists in the city, but have been outranked by the Koreans whose arrivals have increased recently.

The Department of Tourism reported that American tourists and other foreigners continued to visit the Philippines amid the spate of adverse travel advisories warning them against visiting the country on security concerns.

DOT has also recently begun issuing 14-day visas-upon-arrival to Chinese tourists after the government made China one of its priority tourism markets.

However, Jalandoni noted a slight decrease in tourist influx for the first four months this year compared to the same period last year.

From January to April this year, local tourists only totaled to 39,554 and foreign tourists, 6,031.

The tourism officer said the small drop in tourist influx might be due to economic downturn. "A couple of hotels and lodging houses have closed recently while others are not doing very well," says Jalandoni.

She is however hopeful that tourist arrivals will pick up in the coming months. (PIA)

Batanes small-scale farmers venture in agri-business
BASCO, Batanes (29 June 2005) -- Farmers in this province who grow garlic, ginger and coconut have formed into a cooperative venturing on processing their products.

Assisted by the Provincial Agriculture Office, and known government organizations and financial institution, the farmers would invest in processing of their products which come by metric tons through modern technologies.

Ivana, Itbayat and this town are known for mass production of garlic which newly formed cooperative would process into garlic flakes and garlic powder. Process of turmeric or powdered yellow ginger and local "Bukayo" and coconut candle from coconut abundant in Batanes and Uyugan will also include the cooperative's product lines. (PIA-Batanes)

NegOr LGUs vigilant vs profiteering
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- The 15 Centers for Consumers' Welfare in some local government units in Negros Oriental remain vigilant against profiteering among traders in the province.

According to Dr. Angeline Gonzales, Trade and Industry Regulatory Division Chief at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here, the Centers for Consumers' Welfare are constantly monitoring prices of basic necessities and prime commodities in their areas.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Angelo Reyes recently reiterated his call to local government units to guard against profiteers and monitor prices of basic commodities at the LGU level.

Gonzales said that based on reports from the centers, profiteering is not rampant in the province because the traders here are competitive.

The traders have reportedly said that if they hike up their prices, consumers refuse to buy from them, disclosed Gonzales.

So far, only 15 LGUs have set up their own centers, namely: Basay, Bayawan City, Sta.Catalina, Siaton, Zamboanguita, Dauin, Valencia, Dumaguete City, Sibulan, Tanjay City, Bais City, Mabinay, Ayungon, Guihulngan, and Canlaon City.

A center will soon be set up in Jimalalud.

Gonzales said the LGU personnel manning the centers also address consumer complaints and hand out business name application forms. (PIA)

EN causes minimal drop in water level in NegOr
by R. Nessia
Dumaguete City (29 June 2005) -- The long drought produced by the abnormal weather phenomenon El Niño in the country has caused the water level in Negros Oriental to drop, but the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) here describes the decrease as "very minimal."

Engr. Eduardo Eso of the local NIA office in an interview said the decrease in the water level is not alarming compared to previous El Niño episodes.

He cited the various irrigation projects in the province as having helped ease the impact of El Niño on farmers.

The government has been harvesting rainwater through small water impounding projects (SWIPs) for irrigation to lessen the negative impact of the long heat wave on farmers nationwide.

Eso however said their office here is using small reservoir irrigation projects (SRIPs) instead of SWIPs because they are deriving water from the rivers in the province.

The two existing SRIPs in the province are in Calango, Zamboanguita covering 650 hectares and in Nasiguit, Zamboanguita covering 1,000 hectares. "The dam in Nasiguit, Zamboanguita is already completed and the distribution is now ongoing," says Eso.

According to the NIA engineer, there are now a total of 10,000 hectares of irrigated areas in the province, stretching from Basay to Canlaon City.

All towns and cities have irrigation projects already except for Dauin where the construction of the SRIP is ongoing under the ADB program.

The project is aimed to end by 2007 and will cover 1,000 hectares of vegetable, corn and rice fields in the irrigable areas of some eight barangays in Dauin.

The dam site is constructed in Magsaysay with Lipayo River as the water source. (PIA)

WV Intramuros showcase: A long, enthralling journey
ROXAS CITY (29 June 2005) -- Entering Clamshell I and viewing the exhibits and cultural shows of Western Visayas during its tourism showcase at Intramuros, Manila from June 18-30, 2005 was like touring the richly colorful and alluring region.

All provinces of the region have occupied zones within the approximately 1,000-square meter area of the clamshell where they have put up booths that served as one-stop shops for things related to tourism.

The provincial booths had desks that provided interested visitors with information about socio-economic profile, tourist destinations, tour packages and local products. They also served as venues for product exhibits and selling and craft demonstration.

About one-half of the clamshell served as venue for the cultural show staged by each province during their respective special event dates: Aklan, June 18; Negros/Bacolod City, June19; Capiz, June 24; Iloilo-Guimaras, June 25; and Antique, June 26.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Director Edwin G. Trompeta said the regional showcase from June 18-30, 2005 was dubbed “Kabugana-an Sang Western Visayas” designed to depict the abundance in the region of some of the best tourist attractions in the country as reflected in its rich arts, culture, history and even its natural products and crafts.

One needed not walk farther, albeit leisurely or in a shopping-like manner, than the other half of the clamshell area to see how deeply varied are the tourism treasures of the region.

Upon setting foot in the island of Panay, you would undoubtedly get captivated by the charm of Capiz which you only have come to know in history books as the birthplace of the late Manuel Acuña Roxas, first President of the Philippine Republic.

Soon to hold a new tourism-oriented event dubbed “Diwal Festival,” Capiz is the second settlement established by the Spaniards in the country after Cebu in the 16th century.

As a testimony to this rich Spanish heritage, the province has the largest church bell in Southeast Asia. It can be found at Panay Church of the Parish of Sta. Monica in Panay town.

It is reputed as the seafood capital of the Philippines for its bounty of seafood like crabs, shrimps, oysters, mussels, and the exotically delicious “diwal” or angelwings. Capiz is also famed as the “Garden Center of Panay Island” owing to its vast and variegated cutflower farms.

It has unspoiled black sand beaches, isolated coves, and caves. You will get to know more about Capiz by witnessing its annual Sinadya sa Halaran festival that usually lasts for a week and culminates in the Roxas City fiesta celebration on Dec. 8.

Capiz serves as a good entry point for neighboring Aklan which is unmistakably striking with images of the world-famous Ati-Atihan festival and Boracay Island dancing in your mind.

Take note of its caves, waterfalls and natural pools and you will harmonize the dance with a mesmerizing musical symphony made up of these natural wonders.

You will enjoy the province more if you decide to buy and try its local products such as piña cloth, sleeping mat made of pandan leaves, ampao, and other native delicacies.

A trip to the westernmost tip of Aklan to explore the marvels of its unspoiled caves could eventually lead you to venture farther and find yourself between the sea and the mountains of Antique.

While in Antique, you can savor its natural, fresh vegetables, fruits and seafood. Or as the DOT suggests, you can go trekking, boating, swimming, shell hunting, snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.

You can schedule your visit in the last week of April in time for the Binirayan, Antique’s premier festival.

While enjoying the mountain sceneries of Antique, you smell something sweet and you’d soon learn that it’s “bandi” (peanut candy), a delicacy of Iloilo.

But there’s more to Iloilo than this sweet delight â€" its rich treasures of historical and cultural attractions, stately Spanish-inspired mansions, majestic century-old churches, unspoiled countrysides and exotic delicacies such as batchoy and pancit molo.

It has antiques, handicrafts, art pieces and a wide array of other souvenir items to take home after a pleasant journey to the land of some of the finest jusi and piña embroidery. Its capital, Iloilo City, once enjoyed the fame of being the “Queen City of the South.”

Iloilo has the oldest golf course in the country and has cockfights on Sundays for aficionados of the game. It owns one of the region’s highly popular festivals â€" Dinagyang, which is held every January in honor of the Señor Sto. Niño or the Holy Child Jesus.

From the Panay mainland, the sweet mangoes of Guimaras beckon to anyone to take a 15-minute boat ride to the island province to see how they are able to produce such high-quality mangoes, as well as to enjoy its scenic beaches, caves, cashew and other fruit trees. The Our Lady of the Philippines Trappist Monastery in Jordan town is the only one of its kind in the country.

Aside from its natural wonders, Guimaras regularly hosts survival challenge games where you see speed, precision, gallantry and colors among participants of mountain biking, kayaking and rappelling in three days of exciting action.

Guimaras’ fame as “Mango Country” is colorfully depicted during its Manggahan Festival which is held every May 22nd to commemorate its provincehood. It was once a sub-province of Iloilo.

Negros Occidental could even be sweeter. Dubbed as “Sugarlandia” because of its premier product, which is sugar, the province is primarily known for its inland tourist attractions, historical sites, lifestyle museums, antiques and art collections, vintage steam locomotives used in the sugar industry, ancestral houses of sugar barons, industrial sites, mountain resorts, century-old churches, and contemporary artistic places of worship.

DOT recommends to nature-lovers its pleasurable mountains, waterfalls, caves, islets, coral beds, crystal clear sea waters, and stretches of white sand beaches. Also considered as a gourmet’s paradise, Negros Occidental takes pride in its local cuisine, pastries and delicacies (including piyaya) that never fail to please the discriminating visitor.

It is the province with the most number of cities (13 so far) in the country today. The “Masskara Festival” of Bacolod City, the provincial capital, depicts the many facets and faces of the Negrenses’ way of life in a festive celebration held every October.

During the journey inside the clamshell, you let the first letters of the names of the region’s provinces juggle in your mind and you’ll be amazed to find out how the letters will go together as in a jigsaw to form the following combinations: IN CA, GA (you’re in Western Visayas, a beautiful place), my dear); CAIN, GA (let’s eat batchoy; my dear); and GAIN CA (you gain a lot of nice things from your trip to the region).

Surely, an actual trip to Western Visayas after knowing about it at the Intramuros showcase would be a rewarding experience for those who love the best things in tourist destinations. GAIN CA. (PIA-JSC)

Commentary: Moral lapse is but human
By Henry S. Lagasca
SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (29 June 2005) -- The admission of President Gloria regarding the wiretapped phone conversation with a high-ranking elections official indicated that she is prepared to take full responsibility for any impropriety on her part. Her speech doused the intense heat in the political cauldron but keep the rest of the house smoldering along opposition party lines and will not stop the street marches and other protests being staged by militant groups.

The President’s unprecedented mea culpa draws mixed reactions. Some are praising her courage in “constructive contrition” calling every Filipino to take heed in genuine reforms as an opportunity in every crisis. However, the opposition is demanding for her ouster.

This is only fair but the problem is that the opposition is making “impossible and unconstitutional demands.”

PGMA has truly made a strong decision to continue in the direction of better and more responsive governance. The President has taken that first step forward reforming herself and her administration by admitting her “lapse of judgment” and asking the nation for forgiveness. When she said “I’m sorry” to the Filipino people, it is for the sake of our country and let us accept it and get on with our lives.

The ongoing legislative probes are aggravating the political noise of the opposition that, observers claimed, are biased and not really independent bodies that will investigate the “tape tale” and the jueteng scandal. These hearings have turned into a circus and striving to tell who is guilty to the entertainment of citizens’ part of everyday lives. That these probes went beyond their primordial objectives of being “ostensibly in aid of legislation” and even exceeded in performing their roles as “prosecutors.” The congressional and senate hearings have prejudged Ms. Arroyo and yet they do not want to go through the process.

On this issue, let’s come down on the primacy of the Constitution. If the opposition is dead serious about our Constitutional system, there should be any arguments that impeachment, not street marches and political grandstanding, is the logical course of action. We can’t allow ourselves to get carried away by the so-called “trial by publicity” as well as the political noise of the opposition because we don’t know what is true or not. We have to remain reasonable and uphold our impartiality as enlightened members of a civil society.

The torture of adverse publicity and speculations, innuendoes and rumors in the past weeks should be sufficient punishment if the President has committed any moral lapse.

Let’s give President Gloria the benefit of the doubt and we should support her call to give her the chance to now build on the gains of the government’s fiscal and economic reform program. Ms. Arroyo is still the leader in command and that she deserves our full support to do what is necessary to move our country forward. (PIA)

July is disaster consciousness month
by JN Aragon
Daet, Camarines Norte (29 June 2005) -â€" With the theme “Safe ka ba?” Programa Laban sa Kalamidad Tungo sa Pag-unlad, the Bicol Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC) will spearhead observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM) starting Friday, July 1, at the Provincial Agro Sports Center, here.

Executive Order No. 137, dated August 10, 1999, declares July as National Disaster Consciousness Month to institutionalize the civil defense deputization program. NDCM activities aim to increase the awareness of every Filipino to the threats of disaster and for a better appreciation of the government’s disaster preparedness program.

Members of the Bicol Regional Disaster Coordinating Council, which finalized the calendar of activities last June 16, agreed to let the province of Camarines Norte host the opening ceremonies this year. The province had been awarded with the Regional Gawad Kalasag last year as the Outstanding Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) in Bicol.

This year’s opening ceremony will commence with a motorcade after which RDCC Chairman, P/CSupt Victor B. Boco, as Guest of Honor, will give the keynote address. To cap the day, simulation exercises and joint RDCC/PDCC meeting will be held after the opening program.

To better inform and educate the general public, the Office of Civil Defense, in partnership with government and private establishments has lined up activities geared towards effective information/education campaign by hosting an Open House for students, airing video clips on disaster preparedness through various cable networks, airing radio plugs, capability enhancement of local disaster councils, mall exhibit, distribution of “SAFE KA BA?” posters/flyers and hanging streamers.

The observance of NDCM is undertaken all over the nation to heighten the awareness on disasters affecting communities and more importantly, what every individual can do to prepare and prevent the adverse effects of disasters.

Through information, proper avenues and the participation of communities, disaster consciousness can be raised in every Filipino, instilling a pro-active approach to disasters. As President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said, “Every Filipino’s life is priceless. Let’s all be safe.” (OCD)

98 water refilling stations in Bicol issued health permits
by AB Calleja
LEGAZPI CITY (29 June 2005) â€"- The Department of Health - Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) in Bicol had issued health permits to some 98 water-refilling stations operating all throughout the region.

This was learned from DOH Regional Sanitary Engineer William Sabater who said that as of June 15, most of the water-refilling stations are located in the province of Albay with 44 water stations accredited; 32 in Camarines Sur; 10 in Sorsogon; 9 in Masbate; 2 in Camarines Norte; and one water station in Catanduanes.

According to Sabater, these 98 water refilling stations in the region have satisfied the requirements for the issuance of initial permit which included: 1) Application letter, 2) Plan indicating the piping layout, isometry and details of water purifier duly signed by the Regional Sanitary Engineer; 3) Certification from the manufacturer that the water purification device is approved for sale by the DOH; 4) Drinking water site clearance by the local health office or certificate of potability of drinking water issued by the local health officer if raw water is sourced from a private water supply system.

He said that after the issuance of an initial permit, health authorities collect 2 water samples from each station every month to test water potability. “One sample is the raw water before the refilling process and the other is the product water which the station release for sale.”

Sabater pointed out that such water testing double checks the quality of water basically in terms of its disinfection unit, ultra-violet light and the amount of contaminants the water contains before and after the filter processes.

“In case a harmful element is detected the DOH will order a temporary closure of the station until they fix the water problem,” Eng’r. Sabater explained adding that monitoring of each station is one of the primary tasks of the local government unit.

He clarified that the water from refilling stations has only a one month warranty if stacked in a container while bottled water should be consumed within one year from the time it was packaged.

Sabater pointed out that the mandate in the Water Supply Sanitation Code of the Philippines states that the local health authority shall create a Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee to oversee the operation of the water systems and the quality of the end-product distributed by them and to monitor the implementation of other provisions. “This, according to the implementing rules, should be composed of the municipal/city health authority, rural health unit, Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the municipal/city engineering office and the DOH representative to the local health board.”

But the problem, Sabater laments, is that we see no actions from the LGU as far as implementation of the water sanitation provisions is concerned. “The DOH has already requested the local government to implement fully the provisions for all the water supply in the locality including those supplied by the Legazpi City Water District (LCWD) in the case of Legazpi City.”

Sabater bared LCWD monitors the water’s quality and standard without a third party. “They check their water supply by themselves without interventions from local health authorities which clearly violate the provision in the said code.” (PIA)

P12 hike granted to Ilocos minimum wage-earners
By Jennilyne O. Casimiro
SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (29 June 2005) -â€" A P12.00 per day across the board minimum wage hike has been approved by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in region I recently.

The increase will be in the form of cost of living allowance (COLA) for all workers in the private sectors in the region.

The Wage Board announced in a press conference held recently that Wage Order RB-1-10 was approved on June 21, 2005 which will take effect July 7 or fifteen (15) days after its publication in major local papers.

“The decision to increase wages, after a series of public hearings in the entire region was in consonance with the President’s meeting with labor leaders during the May 1 Labor Day celebration,” DOLE-1 regional director and RTWPB Chairman Gerry Cirilo said.

Also, he emphasized that according to law, the Wage Board is prohibited from issuing another new wage order after a 12-month period from its latest issuance, wherein only last November 11, 2004, Wage Order No. 9 was approved. But the continuous oil price increase and increase in the prices of basic commodities, along with the double-digit inflation rate in the region justified another round of increase.

DTI regional director and Wage Board vice-chair Florante O. Leal emphasized that certain factors were considered by the Board in arriving at a P12.00 daily COLA increase.

These factors include the required basic needs of the workers, the capacity of establishments to pay, the comparative wage scheme in the adjacent regions and the requirements for economic development in the region.

Leal also said that job preservation and the promotion of micro and small business enterprises were among the other considerations set by the Board. He explained that possible higher wage increase might hinder potential investors to invest in the region and might lead to closure of small establishments, thereby negating the President’s agenda of jobs generation.

“The increase is meant to preserve and generate jobs and augment salaries of workers considering that majority of business establishments in the region are medium and small enterprises,” wage board management sector representative Salvador P. Roserio added.

Despite absence of wage increase proposal from the labor sector and opposition of another increase by the management sector, Board Labor representative Eliseo Flora believed that the P12.00 new wage increase will restore the lost purchasing power of consumers in the Ilocos region. (PIA Ilocos)

Social welfare and development forum at DSWD RO5 June 29
by EE Jerusalem
LEGAZPI CITY (29 June 2005) -â€" The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Bicol will conduct today, June 28, a forum on social welfare and development (SWD) at the DSWD regional office here.

The activity will be participated in by the provincial, municipal and city Social Welfare and Development Officers, people’s organizations (POs), and non-government organizations (NGOs) in the region.

DSWD Bicol regional director Eliseo C. Copian said that the activity will provide the opportunity for the intermediaries to join and converse on common programs and concerns for the welfare of the constituents.

Copian said the forum is aimed to strengthen linkages among social welfare and development organizations and implementers with focus on improvement/progress along the implementation of SWD programs and projects.

The consultation-dialogue will cover the updates on all the major programs and services along social welfare and development, policies and updates.

Copian will present the DSWD Accomplishment for 2004 and will also provide updates on the following: Technical Assistance and Resource Augmentation (TARA) Plan result, social welfare and development situationer, and legislative agenda.

The discussion on issues and concerns related to the implementation of the social welfare and development programs and projects will be an important part of the activity. It is expected that the participants will come up with suggestions/recommendations to help enhance the provision of services at the local and regional level.

Copian said the Regional Social Welfare and Development Forum is a semestral activity to assess the levels of partnership, cooperation and synergy with the local social welfare and development offices so that its programs, projects and services will be carried out efficiently and effectively. (DSWD)

Bicol PWD leaders urged to train in advocacy
NAGA CITY (29 June 2005) -â€" A national federation of persons with disability (PWD) based in Quezon City is calling on leaders of PWD groups in Bicol to train in PWD advocacy.

Alyansa ng may Kapansanang Pinoy (AKAP-Pinoy) is set to conduct “Training of Trainer Advocates for a National Campaign on Advocacy for PWD” in Bicol this October in Camarines Sur.

AKAP-Pinoy Southern Luzon cluster chair Lauro Purcil, Jr. instructed AKAP-Pinoy media coordinator Alan Pelayo, an advocacy writer and educator based here, to identify at least 20 active leaders of active PWD groups including non-PWD working for the sector for the trainer’s training. He also instructed Pelayo to closely coordinate with local PWD leader Luvino Alvarez and seek the help of Camarines Sur Board Member Ernesto Verdadero, an identified PWD supporter, in pushing through with the activity.

The group, according to Purcil, also acknowledges the effort of Camarines Sur Rep. Luis R. Villafuerte in filing a bill for PWD sector.

The training aims to discuss PWD agenda, its contextual basis and rationale framework in preparation for engagements in the locality, explain AKAP-Pinoy responses and current moves to pro-actively popularize and meet the PWD goals; present the Magna Carta Rights of PWD; enumerate the step-by-step advocacy process and define related concepts; demonstrate needed skills; define basic concepts, principles and values and traits of trainer advocate and formulate concrete tasks for 2005 by cluster.

Organized as a federated group in May 2004, AKAP-Pinoy has been formed to continue the advocacy started by AKAPIN, the official party list of PWDs recognized as a political representative organization of PWD sectors in the country.

The group envisions a unified PWD sector in a disabled-friendly Philippines. Its mission is to unite PWD sector and work for a Philippine society that promotes equal rights, full participation and integration of every person with disability. Among its goals are to encourage all the legitimate organizations for and of PWDs and other interested stakeholders to join AKAP-Pinoy as a national advocacy organization; develop and enhance the capabilities of current and political PWD leaders as advocates of the cause of the sector, establish linkages and network with international and local NGOs, government agencies and other sectors that will support the cause of AKAP-Pinoy and develop and implement a concrete and comprehensive plan on resource generation to sustain the program of AKAP-Pinoy.

Interested PWD leaders may call Luvino Alvarez at (054) 511-8245 or text or call Alan Pelayo at (054) 472-1442 or 0918-6162939. (Morate, AKAP-Pinoy)

PGMA breaks silence; country needs to move on
by Sylvia C. Serfino
Catbalogan, Samar (29 June 2005) -- President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's admission of her role in the Gloria-Garci wire-tapped tape was a welcome gesture as it finally puts to rest a question that has been plaguing the entire Filipino nation.

This was the reaction of Mrs. Helen Hernandez, President of the Samar Baker's Association and past president of the Batanguenos Association of Samar.

Mrs. Hernandez said it was a very noble gesture on PGMA's part to swallow her pride, break her silence and accept before national television that what she had done was a "serious lapse of judgment".

"The President is just as human as everybody else, yet she had the courage to own up to her mistake," Hernadez said. In fairness to her, she didn't say anything incriminating in the tape. We should also have the courage to forgive her and move on, the Baker's President said. She, likewise stressed that changing horses in midstream is not the solution to the problems of the country today. She claimed that heeding the call for a snap election as suggested by defeated Presidential candidate Raul Roco or calling a tax boycott would only add to the financial burdens of the country and weaken the economy.

With the Presidential election just a stone's throw away, the Filipino people should instead help government push PGMA's economic agenda, Hernandez further added.

In a statement earlier issued by Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye, he stressed that "maligning the leadership and trampling the economy will always be to the detriment of the people...... and a clear attemp to push back economic gains."

Moreover, he emphasized the President's call to move on and boost investor confidence through the economic reform agenda. (PIA)

Former Masbate 3rd district representative shot to death
by EA Delgado
MASBATE CITY (29 June 2005) -â€" Sketchy reports from Metro Manila said a former congressman of Masbate was shot and killed by still unidentified men late Sunday night in Caloocan City.

Police had identified the fatality as Fausto L. Seachon, Jr., a resident of GSIS Village in Sitio Talipapa, Barangay 164 in Caloocan City, DZMM reported on Monday.

Witnesses said Seachon was playing mahjong with two friends when three gunmen approached and opened fire at him around 11 p.m., Sunday.

Sunday night’s shooting incident was the second attempt on his life.

During the election campaign last year, gunmen ambushed his vehicle while heading to a rally in Cawayan town but he survived.

Seachon had sought the Masbate gubernatorial post in last year’s elections, and lost to his chief political rival Antonio T. Kho.

Seachon was the mayor of Pio V. Corpuz town in Masbate’s third district from 1988. In 1995, he won the congressional seat for the province’s third district. Barred by law from seeking a fourth term in Congress, he ran for governor last year but lost.

Seachon, 64, left behind two daughters and a son who is the mayor of Esperanza town, of Masbate mainland.

The former congressman was reportedly girding for the gubernatorial fight in 2007. (PIA Masbate)

PGMA address touches hearts of Filipino people
Tacloban City (29 June 2005) -- Many Filipino hearts were touched as President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, sincerely implored the Filipino people to accept her apologies for whatever lapses in decisions she has made and rallied the people to be with her as she promised to work harder for the fulfillment and achievement of the phase 2 of her social and economic reform agenda.

Indeed, for a leader of her stature, it takes courage, humility and sincerity to be able to do what she did. Every Filipino in his right mind knows the President Arroyo's capacity to govern has been damaged and soiled because certain people deem it better to wash their compatriot's dirty linen in public.

The Presidency has been tarnished by men of evil designs, who will cease at nothing but seize the moment, even sell out the country's welfare to achieve their selfish obsessions by riding on the issues of the hour.

It is a shame that everyone at the top seems to squabble and wastes their time at character assassinations and scandals instead of working hard at nation building and good governance.

It is heartbreaking to note that our politicians stumble at each other's foot in their rush to become headline stealer instead of pooling their resources to promulgate ways and means of improving the economy and the quality of life and living of the poorest Filipino.

It is about time Filipinos wake up and realize that a handful's call for this and that at Manila's streets is not necessarily the voice of the majority. The parliaments of the street, much less of cellular texting have become mundane, irrational and ineffective.

Let this be the time to call on Manila and the national leaders for sobriety, for maturity and humility, to lead the Filipino people to greatness instead of chaos and divisiveness.

Let this be the start- for every Filipino to unite and support each other like one family- one nation every Filipino can be proud of. (PIA-8)

Persons involved in examination fraud barred from taking civil service test
Davao City (29 June 2005) -- Private individuals found involved in any form of examination fraud shall be barred from taking any civil service test.

The Civil Service Commissioner (CSC) disclosed this announcement as it issued a disqualification rules for private individuals found involved in examination irregularities, intensifying its drive in curbing exam anomalies.

"Good moral character is essential among applicants for civil service examinations to set a high standard of ethics in the recruitment for government service," said CSC Chair Karina Constantino-David.

The CSC chief said the disqualification shall be based on "lack of good moral character as manifested specifically by a private person who directly or indirectly employs any form of cheating in the acquisition of civil service eligibility."

A private individual refers to any persons not employed in the government under existing civil service law and rules.

The disqualification proceedings, David explained, shall begin with an initial fact-finding investigation following the discovery of an irregularity that might have been committed before, during or immediately after an examination.

This stage would involve scrutiny of records and documents available with the CSC and those submitted by the individual. During the investigation, the individual may submit affidavits.

Should a probable ground for the disqualification of the individual from taking future examinations exist, the action officer who conducted the fact-finding investigation shall initiate disqualification proceedings before the CSC Examination, Recruitment and Placement Office or the CSC Regional Office.

The individual shall be required to submit his or her comment on the case within three days from receipt. Failure to do so would have the individual's right to comment waived.

If substantial evidence is established and the individual is finally found to have committed any form of exam irregularity, his or her name shall be entered in the list of disqualified applicants and shall be barred from taking any civil service exam on the ground of wanting of good moral character. The individual's eligibility shall likewise be ordered cancelled. (CSC-XI/PIA-RPalacio)

Zambo cleric supports GMA
Zamboanga City (29 June 2005) -- Monsignor Crisanto Dela Cruz, prominent and influential religious leader in Zamboanga City congratulated President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for her courage in accepting her imprudence in front of the entire nation.

In an interview with PIA, Monsignor dela Cruz praised the President saying that she has exemplified the character of being a good leader by accepting her faults. "I think it is a sign of a good leader when you see that you are mistaken and you say you're sorry. Nobody is perfect and I hope that this would be an opportunity for her to start a new beginning and be more determined to conduct reforms especially in the area of corruption and purging of the COMELEC," Msgr. Dela Cruz said.

In a statement released to the media, Monsignor dela Cruz appealed to the public for sobriety and for healing of wounds brought about by political and personal interest. "Our leaders should think of the common good and not their personal interest. Let the law take due force and let our leaders set aside their personal gain. Both the administration and the opposition should reflect on how to move forward together. What we need is a healthy opposition," Monsignor Dela Cruz stressed.

He also appealed specifically to Exec. Sec. Eduardo Ermita to help the President by drawing the people to her rather than driving them away. Msgr. Dela Cruz is talking of the recent order of Sec. Ermita of the transfer of Air Transportation Office IX to Pagadian City. "Sec. Ermita should not only think of the good of Dipolog and Pagadian just because they won there. The order has only caused more confusion to the people. We don't have money to finance the transfer of the regional offices to Pagadian."

Monsignor dela Cruz also called for the people to respect all our duly constituted authorities. He emphasized that the government is doing its best to give what is due to the people. "I would like to believe that the government is moving forward but not as fast as it should be. This is because of the many political distractions," Msgr. Dela Cruz said.

Monsignor dela Cruz appealed to our leaders and the people to put our acts together. He said that these could be achieved if only we are determined. "There should be meeting of minds between the administration and the opposition for the good of our country, and it is possible through utmost respect, dialogue, more prayer and sacrifice. We hope that our country would survive this crisis," Monsignor dela Cruz ended. (PIA)

P4-B for employees affected by rationalization plan
By Rose Palacio
Davao City (29 June 2005) -- The government will allocate about P4-billion as incentives to government employees who may be affected by the Rationalization Program of the government .

Rationalization Program (RP) is an Early Retirement program for all government employees. Those whose functions have been declared redundant will be given the option to avail of retirement/separation benefits with applicable incentives, if they choose not to remain in government service and be placed in other agencies.

A whole day discussion on Executive Order 366 was conducted during the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Members Conference held at the GSIS conference hall, Davao City. The topic during the discussion is "An Initiative of the Philippine Government Employees Association (PGEA) in Partnership with GSIS."

Speakers include: City Administrator Wendel Avisado; Civil Service Commission (CSC) XI Director 1V Annabelle B. Rosell; PGEA National President and Member, GSIS Board of Trustee Esperanza S. Ocampo; ABM Fatima Alvares, Assistant Regional Manager - Operaions, GSIS Davao; and Maria Fe Dingding-Hajagna of the Department of Budget and management (DBM).

Under the Rationalization Plan , government will be able to eliminate redundancies in its operations and focus its resources on its vital functions. The bureaucracy can concentrate on work that must be done by government; minimize, if not eliminate, overlapping and duplications of functions and improve its systems and procedures.

Savings from Personal Services to be derived from this undertaking would be retained with the Department/Agency and may be used to fund the priority programs and projects under the 10-Point Agenda of the Administration and the salary increases/incentives of government, personnel, subject to guidelines to be issued by the DBM.

RP covers all Departments of the Executive branch and their units/bureaus, including all corporations, boards, councils, commissions, task forces and all other agencies attached under the administrative supervision.

While it is not mandatory, Constitutional Offices, the Legislature, Judiciary and State Universities and Colleges may voluntarily apply the parameters of the RP, if they opt to review their respective operations and organization. (PIA-RPalacio)

First step on Pujada Island
By Mai B. Gevera
Davao City (29 June 2005) -- It took me 23 years before discovering a treasure only right before my eyes.

Staying in the municipality of Mati, Davao Oriental for 16 long years, I snubbed the beauty that could surpass the Island of Samal and even the famous Boracay Island.

Until I left my good old town to study college in the city, I still haven't stepped foot on Pujada Island, Mati's very own.

City friends would ask me how beautiful it is, but I usually fail them with my answer, " I haven't been there yet."

Yes, I could be mocked for not even attempting to feel the pure white sand and the clearness of its blue waters.

People may laugh at me after knowing that the island can already be reached by my eyes with our home, just several meters away from the Pujada bay shoreline.

It's not because I simply don't have environmental appreciation, or I don't possess an eye for beauty, or that I just hated everything about my hometown.

It boils down to one stupid phobia. I can't call it hydrophobia because I even love hopping one island to another in Samal. The "whatever" phobia all began from a frightful experience that almost caused my death on our way to one of the islands near Pujada. Riding on a small motor water boat, the wild waves looked like some bloody water that pulls me to an entirely different world.

When my company reached the port, I totally lost the enthusiasm to go visit the three famous islands in Pujada bay: Pujada island, Waniban island, and the disappearing Oak island.

This time, Davao media friends would laugh no more. During our coverage for the 2nd Pujada Bay Festival, I was forced to overcome my fear of crossing the island.

Seeing the Patrol speed boat of LGU-Mati, I easily gathered strength to join the group and board the boat.

An hour of travel seemed to be too short with all the interesting sites that busied the travelers. Along the way we passed by the line of resorts of the famous Masao. Colorful flaglets and the number of floating cottages signal the booming resort industry in the said town.

The team also passed by tanned fishermen busy gathering fishcatch which they named " tulingan". A matter of sea protocol, the fishermen raised some of their catch, a sign that they are giving some fish to the travelers.

First island stop is Waniban, twice smaller than Pujada, Then the boat proceeded to the so-called Oak Island, very similar to Camiguin's White Island. It boasts of white sands and a single "talisay" tree which disappears during high tide.

Right next to it stands the untapped Pujada Island, a private property owned by the famous Angliongtos of Davao City. Visitors immediately dipped into the crystal clear waters while some marveled in the wide land area near the shore and took shots of rare plant and animal species.

Everything in Pujada is still on its raw form. It can be best described as a "virgin island."

One of the best attractions, as visitors would say, is the sighting of dolphins. We waited a couple of hours, and whistled to get their attention, but no dolphin seemed to be around. It was then learned that we were too late to watch them. Dolphins are usually sighted from 10:00 am to noon time.

On our way back, we took the other route, passing the "sleeping dinosaur" island. It is a must-see figure, best seen on its top-view, before travelers reach the town of Mati.

It only took me a whole afternoon to realize how bare those 23 long years I spent as a Matinian sans this experience. (PIA/ Mai B. Gevera)

Pag-amin ng Pangulo, pinuri
Cotabato City (29 June 2005) -- Ang pag-amin ng Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa kanyang taped conversation sa isang Comelec official at paghingi niya ng paumanhin sa sambayanan ay nagpakahulugan ng isang katatagan, tibay, at lakas na nararapat na kakikitaan sa isang lider ng bansa sa gitna ng kasalukuyang umiiral na situasyon

Ito ang ang ipina-abot na salita ng Malacanang officials makaraang humarap ang Pangulo sa sambayanan noong lunes at tanggapin ang responsibilidad.

Kaugnay nito, sinabi rin ni Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye na nangangahulugan ito ng katapatan ng Pangulo sa gitna ng kakapusan sanhi ng di inaasahang 'lapse of judgement.'

Napapanahon na upang harapin natin aniya, ang mga importanteng bagay para sa ikabubuti ng ating bansa, ngayong nagpapatuloy ang suporta ng Gabinete at mga mamamayan sa adhikain ng Pangulong Gloria na maibalik muli ang sigla ng ekonomiya ng bansa, dagdag pa ni Bunye. (Cecil Cadorna)

Iron ore manufacturing sector top investor in Mindanao
Davao City (29 June 2005) -- Iron ore manufacturing sector leads in the investments in Mindanao for the first four months of 2005 with P520 million infused capital by a foreign owned company.

The Mindanao Economic and Development Council reported that from January to April 2005 investments performance, the sector got the biggest share of approved projects this year.

About 49 percent worth of investments was infused by the Japanese-owned Philippine Sinter Corporation at Phividec Industrial Authority (PIA) in Valenzuela, Misamis Oriental.

Investments in processed food and beverages sector remained strong as it grew by 20 percent with P256 million of investments from January to April this year compared to the same period last year of P213 million.

The livestock, poultry and feeds sector on the other hand has P203 million of current investments from last year's P89 million.

The refrigeration services sector accounted five percent while motor vehicle parts accounted three percent share from the total investments this year.

Medco also reported on the other investments that include the P200 million poultry farms venture of Maharlika Agro-Marine Ventures Corporation located in Bukidnon and Davao City.

It also reported the P125 million Philippine-Japan Active Carbon Corporation's expansion project in Davao City, the P 100 million semi-refined carrageenan project of Marisons Food Corporation in Davao City and the P57 million cold storage plant of San Andres Fishing Industries, Inc. in Tambler, General Santos City. (PIA/pdbanzon)

8 water systems provided to Gov. Generoso farmers
GOV. GENEROSO, Davao Oriental (29 June 2005) -- Agrarian reform beneficiaries and residents in two barangays here will no longer walk a 100 meters or more to fetch from a common deep well, as eight rural water system worth P245,919, were constructed in the communities.

Regional director Rodolfo Inson of the Department of Land Reform (DLR), Davao Oriental governor Elena Palma Gil and Governor Generoso mayor Jerry dela Cerna led last week the turn-over of eight units of rural water supply (RWS) level I or the manual water pumps in six "purok" of barangays Poblacion and Crispin dela Cruz.

Provincial agrarian reform officer Benjamin Luz of the DLR XI stated that the RWS project with 60-foot depth for each well, were implemented under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project (ARISP), one of the foreign-assisted projects of DLR.

He said the funding came from a soft loan courtesy of Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and equity share from the local government unit.

Luz said that the water system was part of the support service program of the department for the agrarian reform beneficiaries to provide good condition and improved life in the countryside.

Aside from this, he stated that the project was also in line with the Food Always in the Home (FAITH) program of Gov. Palma Gil who urged here constituents in the barangays during the turn-over ceremony to give value to water because it is life.

Brgy. Captains Rolando Raymundo and Napone Tomasino of Poblacion and Crispin dela Cruz, respectively, expressed happiness and gratitude to the various government agencies for providing their constituents the "gift of life" which is the basic need of the people.

They urged their people to take responsibility in maintaining and sustaining the project for them to live a quality life.

Mayor dela Cerna, meanwhile, was grateful to DLR for considering his town as one of the recipients of the latter's projects to bring progress in the countryside.

In his acceptance speech, the Mayor stressed the importance of water as part of the life of the people. He said he would be strong in his crusade to protect and preserve the town's remaining forest because it is the main source of water.

DLR-XI regional director Rodolfo Inson stated that pouring in development projects in the countryside was a way of the government in addressing the basic needs of the farmers. (DLR XI/ PIA XI)

Tourism leaders to converge in Davao City
Davao City (29 June 2005) -- As an initial step in promoting Davao as sports tourism destination especially to the international market, Philippine tourism leaders will converge in the city on July 12 for a "Sports Tourism Forum" at Grand Regal Hotel.

Art Boncato, president of Tourism Council of Davao City said the forum will prepare participants for sports tourism programs and marketing sports events.

He said case studies of successful sports tournaments, the Philippine expedition to Mt. Everest and insights of the staging of the 2005 Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines will also be discussed.

The forum, he, said is organized by the Davao Convention Bureau and the Tourism Council of Davao in cooperation with the Seirahro Leisure, PAGCOR, Philippine Airlines and Skal International.

Invited as resource persons are Southeast Asian Games Organizing committee chair Roberto Pagdanganan, Philippine Basketball Association commissioner Jose Emmanuel Eala, chief of expedition Philippine Expedition to Mt. Everest Arturo Valdez, Philippine Airlines vice president for marketing support Felix Cruz, and SKAL International president Charles Lim.

The forum Boncato said is a must for all event organizers, hotels, resorts, tourism councils, sports commissions, schools, sports facilities, event sponsors, sports clubs, malls, Mountaineer Associations and Clubs, sports associations, media organizations, and tour operators.

Department of Tourism Davao regional director Sonia Garcia who issued an endorsement for the Sports Tourism Forum said that it is expected to promote sports tourism in the Davao region which boasts of vast potential eco-adventure.

She said the rich eco-tourism assets are perfect for diving particularly around the Davao Gulf, mountaineering, spelunking and golf.

`Garcia said the forum is an ideal venue for promoting Davao as an "Island to Highland Destination" which tour operators can best market as another exciting option for travel and leisure.

Southern Philippines Tourism Council president Mary Anne Montemayor who heads a trade mission in HongKong last June 9 to 12 said earlier that they were able to draw interests from tourists after Davao offered a new product - the sports tourism.

She said HongKong based tour operators found out that diving and playing golf is less expensive on top of the city being hosts to good golf courses and dive sites. (PIA/pdbanzon)

Educational assistance eyed for child laborers in Camarines Norte
by LV Lagatuz
DAET, CAMARINES NORTE (29 June 2005) â€"- The World Vision Development Foundation (WVDF) and its partner organizations had distributed backpacks, white T-shirts and school supplies to 613 child laborers engaged in mining who are currently enrolled in public schools in this province.

According to Jay Velasco, WVDF project education officer for Camarines Norte the children recipients came from gold-producing towns of Labo, Paracale and Jose Panganiban.

Velasco said the activity is a component of the Pag-Aaral ng Bata para sa Kinabukasan project, or the ABK Initiative. “It was launched to raise awareness on the negative effects of child labor and the importance of education.”

He said the initiators of this project saw the need to improve the quality of education and create an alternative system of learning suited to the working children and give them a wider chance to be educated.

Velasco said through the ABK Initiative, WBDF successfully draws support from various government agencies, private sector and institutions in upholding children’s rights and programs to combat child labor. “Some of our partners are the Christian Children’s Fund (CCF), Educational Research and Development Assistance Foundation, Inc. (ERDA), Plan Philippines (Plan), International Labor Organization-International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labor (ILO-IPEC), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), local government units, non-government partners, people’s organizations and other program stakeholders.”

In 2001, of the estimated four million children aged 5-17 years old who were working about 2.4 million of them were engaged in hazardous work.

At present, 10,491 children throughout the country assisted by ABK Initiative are enrolled in various public schools in the provinces of Bulacan, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Iloilo, Davao, Compostela Valley, National Capital Region and here in Camarines Norte.

Velasco said in this province alone, the project is providing assistance to some 2,975 children engaged in mining, quarrying and commercial sexual prostitution in the towns of Daet, Labo, Jose Panganiban and Paracale. (PIA Cams. Norte)

PGMA wins continuous support of Leyte leaders
Tacloban City (29 June 2005) -- Leyte leaders consider as a right move President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's public apology for whatever lapses in decisions she has made.

Leyte Governor Carlos Jericjo Petilla welcomes the address of the President and said that what is best for now is to move forward so that the development of the country will not be stalled. Any destabilization move in Manila makes the foreign investors think twice in coming to the Philippines, Gov. Petilla added.

Representative Remedios L. Petilla when interviewed by local television stations and radio stations said that PGMA's acceptance is a laudable move. She said that we should head tha call of the President to unite together as a nation instead of pulling each other down so that we can achieve our economic and social goals. She said that even if we change the president everyday, still it will not solve our problems.

On the other hand, Tacloban City Mayor Alfredo Romualdez called PGMA's public apology as a noble act befitting a true and strong leader. He observed that Taclobanons are not greatly affected by the destabilization attempts in Manila knowing that these are the plots of the President's detractors. (PIA-AMO

I admire PGMA, says Gov. Migs
ALABEL, Sarangani (29 June 2005) -- Governor Miguel "Migs" Dominguez said he cannot help but admire President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's asking forgiveness from the Filipino people on a national television ending the controversial tapped conversation once and for all.

"Ganon na lang ang aking paghanga sa ating Presidente nang hingin nito ang kapatawaran ng sambayanan," he said during the 11th Regional Development Council-XII meeting here.

He stressed that it was not an easy thing to do for the highest official of the land to confess that she has indeed called up a Comelec official and say sorry for that "lapse in judgment."

But the decision, Dominguez added, was the best option at the moment if only to put an end to the divisive views arising from the wiretapped conversation of the President.

Assuring that she was taking full responsibility, President Arroyo last night, admitted to the nation that she committed a lapse in judgment in the intent to protect her votes.

Dominguez assured that the issue has never, in any way, affected the officialdom of Sarangani in its resolve to spur economic development in the province and urged the people to "move on" instead. (CTA/PIA-SarGen)

UP Mindanao opens land reservations to prospective partners
Davao City (29 June 2005) -- Developers and investors have a new site to consider after the University of the Philippines in Mindanao opened its land reservations to prospective partners.

Salome Sendrejas, UP Mindanao Land Reservation Extension Associate identified the area as good for agriculture and recreational areas and accessible through major highways.

She said there are two areas, one in Laak, Compostela Valley Province and the other in Marilog, Davao City.

The Marilog Land Reservation has an area of 4,100 hectares while Laak has 2,800 hectares.

Sendrejas said the development of the areas should be made within the framework of sustainable development of the natural resources and the improvement of the socioeconomic life of the local communities.

Presidential Proclamations Nos. 1252 and 1253 required the University of the Philippines to come up with a five-year development plan provided that the reserved areas will be used for research, extension and instruction purposes, forest rehabilitation and protection, biodiversity conservation, crops and livestock production and management, and upland communities training and development center.

Sendrejas said projects should be consistent with the goals of attaining socio-economic improvement and sustaining the productivity of the ecosystems and its resources. (PIA/pdbanzon)

GFC assists Arakan drought victims
By Mai B. Gevera
Davao City (29 June 2005) -- A total of 58 families in Barangay Dallag, Arakan, North Cotabato received assistance from the Global Fruits Corporation (GFC) after the said barangay suffered from severe drought.

About 580 kilos of rice was donated to the indigent families of Dallag to assist them after a calamity.

Windel L. Rabaya, Area Manager for GFC Dallag together with Rosel Manbanua and Bert Frias facilitated the humanitarian activity in coordination with Arakan Sangguniang Bayan Member, Zaidee Wong, and Barangay Captain Dominador Dequiña.

Kagawad Wong expressed their gratefulness to the company for such initiative. She assured the company that the LGU of Arakan will support in whatever transactions the company would engage in.

Their gratefulness was wholly expressed through the resolution submitted in the Sangguniang Bayan. (PIA/ Mai B. Gevera)

Investments in ICT and mining very encouraging - MEDCO
Davao City (28 June 2005) -- Investment prospects this year in ICT and mining sectors in Mindanao are encouraging.

According to Mindanao Economic and Development Council (Medco) report the investment climate is very positive with the entry of call centers in Mindanao during the remaining months of 2005.

It said more investments are expected in the ICT sector with the establishment of IT parks particularly in Region X.

The report also noted that G-Com Ltd. and Link2Support have increased investments in the services sector and have provided more job opportunities to Mindanao's IT-literate and English-speaking workforce.

Meanwhile the Medco report indicated optimism in the mining industry with the US$950 million-worth of investments pledge by China in redeveloping the Nonoc mining project in Surigao del Norte.

The mining industry is also seen as a potential player in 2005, the report noted. (PIA/pdb)

High customs valuation by China affects banana chips industry
Davao City (28 June 2005) -- The export volume of banana chips in the Davao region reached 1.351 million kilos during the first quarter this year and could be higher in the succeeding quarters if not for the high customs valuation by China last May.

Mirope Lamsen, agribusiness marketing assistance division chief of the Department of Agriculture in Region XI said from 7.5 per kilogram RMB last year, it has soared up to 20 per kilogram RMB this year.

She said this would lead to a drop in export of the banana chips.

"As a result of this other buyer reduce the buying of cardava because of the decrease of the price in the China market, and some are also holding on their inventory ; last May this year because of the drop in the price of banana chips "she said.

Banana chips processors currently buy cardava at P2.00 to P2.85 per kilo compared to the previous price of between P4.00 to 5.00 per kilo.

She said although those accredited processors with ISO certification have other market like Japan those who do not fall within the accreditation solely depend on the China market.

"They are the producers that are badly hit by the high customs valuation that even other similarly situated processors already stop operation," she said.

She, however said that there are processors who grabbed the current low market price in China but placed other producers to a disadvantage.

She said that a government-to-government discussion between the Philippines and China must be pushed to really find out the cause of the high customs valuation.

"It is only the China market that accepts banana chips products even from non-ISO accredited producers", she said.

She also said that while Thailand and Vietnam impose duty free on banana chips some of the exporters pass on their products to these countries but dropped the Philippine made label.

"This will not also give good value to our produce because Philippine banana chips fetch a better price than those from other countries because of quality," she said. (PIA/pdb)

SEA-Kaunlaran program in Pangasinan benefits constituents
By Danny O. Sagun
DAGUPAN CITY, Pangasinan (28 June 2005) -- SELF-Employment Assistance-Kaunlaran (SEA-K) groups in Dagupan City have evolved into SEA-Kabayans because of good repayment record in their monthly amortizations, according to project development officer Fely Sangalang of the Dagupan City social welfare office.

The Malimgas SEA-Kabayan in barangay Tebeng and the Pag-asa SEA-Kabayan in barangay Bonuan Gueset have combined to subsequently become the Dagupan SEA-Kabayan, Inc., which is now registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The group has grown big with a revolving fund of P688,000, Sangalang said. SEA-Kabayans are entitled to loans of up to P500,000, while individual members can apply for loans of up to P10,000 to P15,000 with a little interest of 10 percent.

The SEA-Kabayans in the city are usually engaged in relending business benefiting members of the association. They also accept loan applications from non-members.

The city social welfare office provides training to women groups especially mothers on skills like food preservation and bangus deboning to qualify as beneficiaries of the SEA-K program, social welfare officer Elsa Santillan said.

In Region I, some P65 million have been invested on the SEA-K program benefiting small entrepreneurs, social welfare and development Regional Director Porfiria Bernardez told the Philippine Information Agency recently. A total of 763 projects have been recorded since the program started in 1994, she said. Beneficiaries include small vendors, sari-sari store owners, fishermen, farmers, and other marginalized groups. As a requirement, beneficiaries had to group themselves into association with a minimum of 15 members. (PIA Ilocos)

Davao sets orientation seminar for small enterprise
by RG Alama
Davao City (28 June 2005) -- Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are invited to an orientation seminar this coming July 7- 9 at the Vanda Room (Commdap exhibit) of the Apo View Hotel.

The Seminar is being organized by e-methods for Business Management; private entity engaging in developing micro, small and medium entrepreneurs' business capability building through the use information technology.

The orientation seminar will focus on the class of economic enterprise who are considered as the backbone of economic growth, the MSMEs on how they can have control of their financial performance while engaging in developing their businesses.

For those interested, the following schedules of the seminars are broken into Day 1 (July 7 3:30-5:30 pm)- For IT Reseller/Value-Added Resellers. Day 2 (July 8, 2005, 6:00-8:00 pm)- for CPA's and Bookkeepers, Day 3 (July 9, 1:00-3:00 pm) for Entrepreneurs.

Interested participants can confirm their attendance through e-mail, fax or text message to the following contact numbers: Fax number 02-533-29-68; e-mail address; quickbooks@embm.net, Cellular numbers; 0917-899-25-87, 0918-509-49-62. (PIA)

Yaman Gensan develop SMEs
By Jonamy Dell Catapang
General Santos City (28 June 2005) -- To boost income, Yaman Gensan 2005 has offered a number of seminars, conferences and techno demo, tailored fit to develop managerial and production skills among small and medium entrepreneurs here.

Yaman Gensan is an initiative of local SMEs, which is celebrated starting last week of June until the third week of July. YG is also referred to as the "business month" celebration aimed at bringing additional money in circulation; bolster sales thus making the economy vibrant during these lull months of the year.

Speaking during the launching of YG 2005 on Monday, Notre Dame Business Resource Center Foundation Inc. Head Bro. Bob McGovern underscored the potentials of equipping resident SMEs with the necessary know-how's and technology through this local initiative.

"Since 1980, we have been involved in business research and we come to the conclusion that focusing on little people (entrepreneurs) who we depend on, reduce social problems and allow people live a decent life," he said.

He referred to poverty, unemployment, inaccessibility to education, and deprivation of adequate health care services as the social problems that beset the largest sector of the society, which could be solved by helping the poor earn income.

McGovern also cited that Yaman Gensan prevents local entrepreneurs from "becoming compliant by exposing them to the latest technology in business, which contributes to survival in business."

"Activities that spur business acumen are very important because our studies also show that there is a tendency for some of businesses here to become compliant resulting in low returns-of-investments," he further said.

Compliance leads to product substandard quality, slower economic growth and fewer activities that ultimately result in business stagnation.

To avoid such compliant entrepreneurs, the Department of Trade and Industry has offered 27 seminars on business management and livelihood projects for SMEs during the YG.

"We are happy to announce that we now offer 27 seminars including livelihood projects for SMEs," Department of Trade and Industry Provincial Director Nenita Barroso, said.

Barroso said Yaman Gensan is supportive of President Arroyo's national SME agenda, which include the comprehensive and focused government support to enhance SME managerial and technological capability and improvement of SME financing.

According to Barroso, the YG 2003 and YG 2004 celebrations were successful because they respectively infused P4.8M and P14.6M in local circulation. (PIA-SarGen)

Barangay congress hoped to strengthen government transparency
ALABEL, Sarangani (28 June 2005) -- In support of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's effort to fight corruption, the Office of the Provincial Governor initiated a series of barangay congress for barangay officials, and other stakeholders to strengthen government transparency.

The barangay congress is anchored on the premise that "barangay is the basic unit of the government serving as the primary planning and implementing unit of government policies, plans, programs, and projects in the community.

Barangay Affairs Officer Jess Bascuña said the activity is crucial since the province advocates for participatory governance aside from the fact that the involvement of the barnagays is crucial in the planning process.

The activity primarily aims to provide information, education, and communication to barangays on various guidelines in funding programs and projects proposed by the national line agencies, other government entities, cooperatives, including local government units.

"Aside from educating the barangays on the guidelines, it will also help them in their preparation of project documents. We also hoped that this will strengthen the province's partnership with various project proponents," Bascuña explained.

Launched on June 2 at the Kiamba Municipal Gym for the municipalities of Maasim, Kiamba, and Maitum followed by June 7 at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium for the municipalities of Alabel and Malungon, the next round would be on June 14 for the municipalities of Glan and Malapatan.

Bascuña also disclosed that the activity will also be used as venue to release aid to the barangays in support of their plans to provide basic services to their constituents.

In his message, Governor Miguel "Migs" Dominguez expressed the hope the congress would lead to speedy transactions and actions anticipating that corruption would be purged since barangay officials themselves have the knowledge on how to go about their respective proposal.

He also looked forward to a more empowered barangay officials and "their strong and active participation in the development efforts and initiatives of the province." (CTA/PIA-SarGen)

Sarangani PDCC-TWGs evaluate MDCCs
ALABEL, Sarangani (28 June 2005) - To determine the functionality of the seven Municipal Disaster Coordinating Councils (MDCCs) in the province, the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council-Technical Working Group (PDCC-TWG) evaluated them over the weekend.

Rene Punzalan, disaster operations chief said the evaluation is a competition among municipalities that is being conducted annually to motivate the MDCCs to be always functional and prepared.

"We assess and rate them annually as our strategy to really determine whether these MDCCs are faring well in terms of disaster management and how are they responding effectively during disaster occurrences," said Punzalan.

The MDCCs were rated according to preparedness (30%); response effectiveness (30%); rehabilitation (15%); mitigation measures (15%); and for general remarks (10%).

During the evaluation, almost all of the seven MDCCs said they have met the criteria on preparedness and disaster response except that some of them have inadequacies in equipment, budget, and manpower.

The TWG members have yet to consolidate the results. Punzalan said the winners will be announced by July 5 after the consolidation shall have been completed.

Earlier, Governor Miguel "Migs" Dominguez have urged the MDCCs "to be always active and on their toes" since disaster occurs anytime without any prior notice.

In his memorandum to the PDCC-TWG, the governor has directed the immediate conduct of the evaluation so that any municipalities found to lag behind in disaster management may be assisted technically.

Among the municipalities, Glan has been most susceptible to calamity particularly landslides while Maitum has been disturbed by strife brought about by its proximity to Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, the lair of the MILF and remnants of Abu Sayyaf. (CTA/PIA-SarGen)

DLR-Sarangani vows to implement land reform
General Santos City (28 June 2005) -- The Department of Land Reform (DLR), which celebrated its 7th Anniversary on Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) vowed to be the "centerpiece program of the government in social reform."

This year's celebration dubbed as "Tuloy-tuloy ang Reporma sa Lupa," hopes to make land redistribution continue even beyond 2008.

"The major challenge of the CARP is still increasing farm productivity and the farmers' income," said Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Officer Rando Famor.

He said the CARP is being implemented through the Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs) as the department's strategy since 1993.

The ARC "is a barangay or cluster of barangays where there is a critical mass of farmers and farmworkers awaiting the full and meaningful implementation of the CARP."

"Kaya po ang theme natin this year ay "Tuloy-tuloy ang Reporma sa Lupa" dahil ipagpapatuloy po natin ang pamamahagi ng lupa sa mga magsasakang Pilipino," Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Paysal Tumog, told the media on Monday at the opening program in Sydney Hotel here.

Congratulating the DLR, Sarangani Governor Miguel "Migs" Dominguez lauded the department for its success on land distribution and titling and for other on-going project links with foreign-funding agencies.

He also challenged its officials and employees for continued hardwork to meet its prospects even beyond its projected period of implementation.

"Before my idea of CARP was just redistribution of land," Dominguez said in his opening statement. "Now I understand that whenever we distribute land for the farmers without any technological assistance and transfer of technology, we will not have very successful farmers," he said.

The governor also emphasized that in order for farmer beneficiaries to really succeed, a micro-financing to provide farmers with working capital at cheap interest rates must be sought.

He also hailed the presence of a private sector from San Miguel Corporation, which mere appearance, according to him, signified cooperation and willingness to be partner or conduit for government programs on land.

Sarangani DLR has been working on its projects for rural development funded through Overseas Development Assistance (ODA)-the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project (ARISP) 1 and 2 are funded by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation and the Philippine Government; the ARC Program which enhances the ARISP Projects is supported by the Asian Development Bank; the Solar Power Technology Support (SPOTS) is financed by the Spanish Government; and the recent Italian Agrarian Reform Community Development Support Project (IARCDSP) with $26.62-M fund is expected to kick off late this year for the municipality of Malungon. (CTA/PIA-SarGen with reports from PIO Sarangani)

We can't blame PGMA - business sector
By Mai B. Gevera
Davao City (28 June 2005) -- "The President has a clear economic agenda."

In one of the episode of the radio program Mindanao Scope yesterday, Mindanao Business Council (MBC) Vice-Chair Romeo Serra bared that blaming President Arroyo on the present economic situation is very unfair.

Serra explained that poverty is a global problem that spares not even the Philippines. " She's barely 4 years in the service and yet she's made to answer even for problems that sprouted 30 years ago."

With the present political turmoil, the business sector here suffers because of the indecision of potential foreign investors.

He bared that things in the business market are really very fluid and present political turmoil can caused a wait and see attitude among investors.

The MBC is discouraging Mindanaoans from joining the bandwagon which may destroy the present administration.

"The biggest victim in this situation is the Filipino people." he said.

Serra said that with the President being attacked by scandals and allegations, it is the country which suffered the most

"The government now, with all the hearings done to investigate allegations thrown to the President, is spending much time for the purpose while other important things to be addressed are relegated to the side lines," he stressed.

The MBC believes that the country will suffer more if the political instability continues.

Serra challenged the people not to be victims of politics. He explained the situation as a play of tampered political colors.

" We should leave this to the legal minds. If the President is at fault, then let this be addressed in the proper court," he said. (PIA/Mai B. Gevera)

Investments in first four months 142% higher than last year
Davao City (28 June 2005) -- The P1.07 billion in investments poured in Mindanao regions during the first four months period is 142 percent higher compared to the same period last year..

The Mindanao Economic and Development Council (Medco) performance report for the first four months this year noted a significant rise from the P0.44 billion investment during the same period last year.

The total investments were reflective of the performances posted at the Board of Investments (BOI) and the Phividec Industrial Authority (PIA).

The two bodies with approved 12 projects from January to April are expected to generate employment to some 1,094 workers posting an increase of 45 percent from the 754 job opportunities last year.

The equity infusions from foreign investors according to the Medco report reached 50-fold increase to P667 million from P13 million while that of the Filipino investors increased by 11 percent to P406 million from P365 million. (PIA/pdb)

Rare fish found in Sarangani Bay
MALAPATAN, Sarangani (28 June 2005) -- Residents and fishery officials tried in vain to save a stranded sunfish Tuesday, highlighting the need to maintain "good water quality" in Sarangani Bay.

"These wastes greatly affect the ecological balance of the Bay in maintaining good water quality, preservation of coastal habitats, and protection of fishery resources," Governor Miguel Dominguez, he said who is advocating against the dumping of waste in Sarangani Bay

The governor has called on the public to be vigilant and responsible for the conservation, protection and preservation of environment and coastal resources.

"Probably the bay serves as their (sunfish) feeding and rearing ground," said marine biologist Giuseppe Chew, the acting provincial agriculturist. This organism is very rare that only few sightings are documented worldwide."

The stranded animal, identified by its English name sunfish and scientific name Molamola, is oceanic and thrives in deeps water, thus, rarely seen by most people.

The dead sunfish, a juvenile, was 1.2 meters long, with "lateral length" 1.4 meter and weighed 40 kilograms.

"We should be happy that this organism is present in our local waters.,. Sad to know that our Bay is already deteriorating caused by unregulated run-offs both solid and liquid wastes." Chew said.

The sunfish was found by Dodong and Kayong Baran at about 10:00 pm in the shores of Poblacion Malapatan Tuesday where it died hours later.

Fishery officials brought the fish to the Environmental Conservation and Protection Center at the provincial capitol for "gut content analysis and tissue analysis" to find out the cause of death.

Most of the strandings of this fish usually occur in Alabel and Malapatan, "which made us speculate that they possibly lay their eggs inside the bay," Chew disclosed.

The Molas are closely related to the Pufferfish (family Tetraodontidae). Hatchlings are around 2.5mm long at birth and covered with spines which shed off naturally as they grow older. An adult has 15 cm tick skin.

According to a report by Kent Dequito, an aquaculturist, the biggest common Mola ever found weighed more than 2,000 kilograms.

Molas produce most eggs among any vertebrates, Dequito said. They can dive up to the depth of 100 meters or more to hunt for food especially jellyfish during daytime and stay at shallow water column at night to sleep.

"The body of this fish is full of ectoparasites that baffles marine biologist worldwide on how they were able to survive," he said. It has 40 different worms and critters clinging on its skin."

This incident of stranding in Sarangani Bay shores had happened many times in the past, officials said. Some were documented and others were just reported informally.

Sarangani Bay is one of the richest Bays in the Philippines

Sarangani Bay has 42 genera of corals, the diversity of which rivals the best dive sites in the world. As a rich habitat, Sarangani Bay is not only home to 277 kinds of fish but also a haven for five species of whales and seven species of dolphins. Sightings of killer whales, pilot whales, dolphins and dugong are common.

Sarangani Bay is also host to three of the five Philippine sea turtles. The olive ridley, green turtle and the hawksbill are prevalent creatures of the bay. (Sarangani Information Office)

Visit visas, no guarantee for overseas jobs - POEA
By Rose Palacio
Davao City (28 June 2005) -- Visit visas are no guarantee for overseas jobs, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) Mindanao field office chief Francis Domingo said.

The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates has reported an increase in the number of Filipinos who arrived in the UAE on visit visas and ended up victims of fixers and illegal job recruiters.

POEA issued the warning to warn visit visas travelers not to fall prey to fixers who charge as much as P100,000 in exchange for a visit visa and promise of a job upon arrival in the UAE.

In many cases, the promise of a job does not materialize and the poor jobseeker is left with the option of either returning to the Philippines empty handed or look for work on his or her own before the visit visa expires in a month or two.

Some companies exploit the situation and offer only menial jobs and salaries much lower than other expatriate workers who arrive on employment visa.

The most vulnerable are some Filipino women who are exploited and forced into prostitution.

POEA advised those looking for work overseas not to leave using a visit visa but instead exert effort to have an employment visa before leaving by dealing with legal and accredited recruitment agencies accredited by the POEA.

"We have a daily publication of those accredited agencies in newspapers of general circulation so the public will be guided of these recruitment agencies accredited by POEA", said Domingo.

Victims are spending so much hoping to have an employment abroad only to end up victims of harassment, extortion, abuse, substandard wages and working conditions, imprisonment and deportation.

"Leave on an employment visa with a job contract attested by POEA. This will save you from much grief and heartache," Domingo said.

Always bear in mind that a visit visa is not a guarantee that you will find work in the country of destination abroad. Always ask information from the POEA Mindanao field office located at Ecoland, Davao City. (PIA-RPalacio)