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KABACAN, North Cotabato -- Two members of a drug syndicate were killed when they engaged law enforcers in a shootout here, a police official said Saturday.

Chief Inspector Aldrin Gonzales, speaking for the police in Region 12, said the North Cotabato police, backed by the Army's 7th Infantry Battalion, were to serve search warrants against Kobe Abdul Kaludin, Dorex Abdul Kaludin, Boy Talipasan Usman, Randy Abdul Kaludin, Kamad Mohammad Maambig, all of Sitio Lote, Barangay Kayaga, Kabacan, North Cotabato, when the firefight erupted.

Gonzales said law enforcers were approaching the village on Thursday dawn when met by gunfire from the suspects, believed to be members of an organized drug syndicate operating in the province.

The brief firefight led to the death of Kobe Abdul Kaludin and Dorex Abdul Kaludin. Police recovered a cal. 38 revolver and a cal. 45 pistol from the slain wanted persons.

A further search was conducted in the victims' homes where police found a hand grenade, ammunition and an unlicensed motorbike.

The implementation of search warrants was witnessed by village officials. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported that at least 50 local business establishments are not granting 13th month pay to their employees.

This was disclosed by Ian Lahi, Labor Employment Officer of DOLE Zamboanga City Field Office, citing this was discovered during inspection and monitoring conducted by the agency's Labor Law Compliance Officer.

Lahi said they have also received 30 complaints concerning non-payment of the 13th month by the employers to the employees.

Lahi said they will take appropriate actions to ensure employers comply with President Decree (P.D.) No. 851 that grants yearend benefits to the workers.

P.D 851 requires employers to pay 13th month pay to their rank and file employees, regardless of the nature of their employment and irrespective of the methods by which their wages are paid, provided they worked for at least one month during a calendar year.

The 13th month pay shall not be less than one-twelfth (1/12) of the total basic salary earned by an employee in a calendar year.

Lahi appealed the employers to release the 13th month pay of their employees on or before December 15 in time for the yuletide season. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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MALOLOS CITY, Bulacan -- President Rodrigo Duterte serenaded the crowd at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium here as he graced the Department of Labor and Employment's (DOLE) 84th founding anniversary Friday.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III was about to introduce the President as the event's guest of honor when he asked the chief executive's indulgence to listen to a special number by singer Jonalyn Viray.

The President joined Viray on stage and sang the Tagalog classic song "Ikaw".

Governor Wilhelmino M. Sy-Alvarado said the President did not only render a special gift to the agency's founding anniversary celebration but also made a historic mark at the province's gymnasium.

"This is why our President is very much loved by the people. He does not only lead us well but also entertains the people. Napaka-simpleng tao talaga ng ating pangulo. (He's such a simple person.) He made his stay at the Bulacan capitol more special and meaningful. This is a good day for Bulakenyos," Alvarado said.

Later in his message, Duterte reiterated that he would stake everything to crush the drug menace and expressed zero tolerance for corruption.

He said he is saddened by stories of children of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) victimized by the evils of dangerous drugs.

"I don't want OFWs finding their children hooked on drugs. This menace is producing a generation of slaves with bizarre and violent behavior. Wala akong pakialam kung sabihin nila akong killer (I don't mind if they call me a killer). Do not destroy my country, I will kill you. There must be retribution, an eye for an eye," Duterte said.

The President also announced that he would sack an entire commission next week for graft.

He also touched on efforts to address the Moro issue, reiterating his commitment to the southern peace process.

"Kapag hindi nagkaroon ng kapayapaan, papasok at papasok na naman ang ISIS (If peace does not prevail, ISIS will enter again). And I won't allow that," Duterte said. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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DUMAGUETE CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) in Negros Oriental reported on Wednesday that a total of 13 persons have died due to dengue in the province since January 1st this year as per latest available records.

For the period January 1 to Dec. 2, the DOH through its Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU), also recorded a total of 2,038 dengue cases province-wide.

This is 62 percent lower compared to the same period of last year with 5,364 cases and 38 deaths.

Ages of cases ranged from eight days to 90 years old, the DOH-RESU report said.

Majority of the cases were from Dumaguete City (20.8 percent), followed by Siaton (12.2 percent), Sibulan (10.3 percent), Guihulngan City (8.6 percent) and Bais City (6.5 percent).

Dengue deaths were reported at one each in Dumaguete, Siaton, Sibulan, Guihulngan, Bais, Bayawan, Canlaon, Tanjay, Zamboanguita, Manjuyod, Pamplona, Ayungon, and Basay.

Meanwhile, Dr. Socrates Villamor, provincial DOH head, disclosed Tuesday afternoon that there were no recipients of the dengue vaccine Dengvaxia, in Negros Oriental.

This is because the vaccination program was only piloted in three regions in Luzon and in nearby Cebu, Dr. Villamor said.

The Philippines has suspended the immunization of hundreds of children in these areas with the Dengvaxia marketed by a French company, Sanofi, after the latter said it could worsen the disease, especially in those that did not have prior dengue infection. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – More than 200 multi-discipline sports enthusiasts along with their supporters from all over the Philippines will converge in Lingayen on December 10 to see action in the 1st PangasinanDuathlon Challenge.

Fully supported by the provincial government headed by Governor Amado Espino III, the duathlon challenge was organized by Metro Dagupan Cycling Club Incorporated (MDCCI). 

It is expected to attract hundreds of spectators around the Pangasinan Capitol grounds, and the Baywalk by the Lingayen beach where the 5km run-45km cycling-5km run loop will be held starting 6 a.m.

MDCCI president Gerry Lorica said the 1st Pangasinan Duathlon Challenge, in partnership with the provincial government through Pangasinan Sports Development and Management Council (PSDMC), seeks to promote the province of Pangasinan, specifically the Capital town of Lingayen, as the best multi-discipline sports destination in the region.

Lorica said foreign triathletes, duathlon elites representing team "Go for Gold", among others, have already confirmed their participation to  the Duathlon Challenge.

PSDMC executive officer Modesto Operania said the people of Pangasinan are again expected to enjoy the action-packed multi-discipline sports – duathlon- just like how Pangasinenses supported the earlier 3rd Tigasin Triathlon held May this year as part of the "Pista'y Dayat".

The duathlon challenge will showcase a total 13 categories for the Mountain Bike/ Road Bike as follows: All; Men -  (18-24 yrs old; 25-29 yrs old; 30-34 yrs old; 35-39 yrs old; 40-44 yrs old; 45-49 yrs old; 50-54 yrs old; 55-59 yrs old; 60 years old and above)  Women's  Open, Relay, and Mixed as well as Folding Bikes Category. 

Governor Espino and other officials of Pangasinan will award trophies to the winners in the afternoon of that day at the Capitol Beach Front. (PNA)
DECEMBER 2017


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LEGAZPI CITY --- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Bicol has welcomed the directive of President Rodrigo Duterte restoring the role of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the government's war against drugs. 

PDEA Regional Director Christian Frivaldo said in an interview that this development would further strengthen cooperation and collaborations among law enforcement units in investigation and intelligence gathering and boost the illegal drug campaign of the national government.

He said, "with a well-coordinated and synchronized system of operation between the agency and the PNP, I don't see how we would fail."

Frivaldo said he hopes that the collaboration and support will also amplify among local government officials in the demand reduction side of the campaign while the agency and the police would focus more on the supply reduction side.

"We in the PDEA are committed to fighting for the future of every family as the foundation of our nation," he said.

Frivaldo said when the agency took over the control of the drug campaign with only 40 operatives since October this year, it has seized 4,615.8 grams of shabu (crystal meth) in various buy-bust operations in Bicol with a street value of PHP23 million.

One notable operation they carried out, he said, was the arrest of two Nigerian nationals who yielded more than a kilo of shabu worth PHP6 million.

Four other drug traders in this city considered as high-value targets were arrested in another buy-bust operation and seized was PHP9 million worth of shabu.

Frivaldo said, "our operations are focused on the supply reduction as we continue to pursue and arrest major drug suppliers."

"While we are putting more pressure on reducing the drug supply, we urge various local government drug enforcers to take the necessary measures to assist in bringing down the demand for drugs," he added.

Meanwhile, Senior Inspector Maria Luisa Calubaquib, PNP Bicol spokesperson, said they are still waiting for the guidance on how to operationalize again the anti-illegal drug campaign considering  that the PDEA remains the overall lead agency."

Data from the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) indicated that there were 84,000 drug suspects who either surrendered or arrested in drug buy-bust operations.

Of the figure, 77,338 or 92 percent were users while 6,611 or 8 percent were pushers. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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DAVAO CITY--Dabawenyos have sent 1,700 holiday food packs containing comfort foods such as pomelo and pastries for the soldiers in the main battleground of Marawi City.

This was disclosed by Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio chief of staff Raul Nadela Jr., who said that the food packs are gestures of the city's gratitude for all soldiers who served in Marawi.

"We send them holiday packs, a simple token that they can enjoy. This is from the people of Davao to our soldiers for their bravery—their sacrifices," Nadela said.

Each food pack is worth P1, 000 of holiday foods.

"It is our way of saying thank you for their service, for their sacrifice, especially now that it is holiday season and they are not with their families," Nadela said.

Earlier, the city government also donated P5 million for the City Government of Marawi to help the LGU revive the economic activities in Marawi.

Aside from the holiday food packs and P5 million, the city also gave relief goods for the families affected by the siege.

The seven-month siege has left thousands of families in the evacuation center. Despite the liberation of Marawi from the terrorists, some barangays are still occupied by a few IS-inspired groups. (Funny Pearl Gajunera/PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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COTABATO CITY--More than 500 entrepreneurs are expected to attend the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Summit for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) aimed at tapping the private sector to sustain the development of industries in the region.

The summit, slated on Dec. 12 at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex inside the ARMM compound here, is also eyed to promote the Halal industry with government and private industrial partners.

"Currently, the only dominant force fueling the ARMM economy is government money so there is a need to partner with the private sector to raise additonal revenues through the thriving of various industries," lawyer Anwar Malang, the region's Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) secretary, told reporters here Tuesday.

DTI-ARMM records indicated that 70-80 percent of registered and unregistered businesses in the region belong to the MSME category.

"If we want to be truly autonomous and in anticipation of the Bangsamoro government or embark on federalism, we have to make use of our greatest assets, the people and other resources, through the development of our private sector," Malang stressed.

Early on, he said the DTI-ARMM had conducted a series of consultations to categorize the challenges facing the private sector, particularly those belonging to the MSMEs.

Several of the gaps identified were issues that can be immediately addressed like extending services and referrals by both government and non-government institutions; and those which  need enabling polices elevated to the National Economic Development Authority and other line agencies.

On matters concerning the Halal industry, Malang said his office is organizing the Halal Chevon (Goat Meat) Stakeholders Workshop with theme "ARMM: Halal Hub of the Philippines" on Dec. 18 at the EM Manor Hotel, this city.

Malang described goat meat as an important component in the lives of Muslims, particularly in the celebration of Muslim feasts (Kanduri) and religious offerings, making it very in demand both here and abroad.

"Therefore, goat meat should be Halal or that goats be raised and slaughtered according to Islam teachings as we could also introduce it as a lucrative business," he said. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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ISULAN, Sultan Kudarat--Soldiers belonging to the 33rd Infantry Battalion had treated wounded communist rebels following a clash with the Army's 27th Infantry Battalion (IB) in the borders of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat, the Army said Wednesday.

Capt. Arvin John Encinas, speaking for the Army's 6th Infantry Division, said elements of the 33rd IB based in Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat provided manpower support to elements of 27th IB that clashed with the NPAs on Sunday in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.

In the clash, seven communist rebels were killed and scores were wounded. Two soldiers from 27th IB were also killed.

Encinas said after the clashes in Sitio Datal Bonglangon, Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato the wounded rebels fled toward Bagumbayan town which is part of the area of operation of 33rd IB.

At around 10:30 a.m. Monday, 33rd IB troopers, led by Lt Col Harold Cabunoc and accompanied by tribal elders, entered Datal Bonglangon to treat a wounded insurgent named Jeffrey Denian, 18.

Datu Dandee Denian, a tribal leader from Tulale village, confirmed that among those killed were Datu Victor Denian and two of the latter's sons who reinforced the NPA.

Cabunoc has arranged a tribal burial rite for the dead insurgents who all belong to the Dulangan Manobo.

Later in the afternoon, 10 NPA members, several of them injured, surrendered to Cabunoc in the presence of Datu Tony Paan and Sto Nino village chairperson Julieto Ynion.

The simple 'Balik Tribo' surrender rite was held in Sitio Bermuda, about a kilometer away from the seized NPA camp. Cabunoc said the number of communist rebels who surrendered to the government troops in Sultan Kudarat had now reached to 86.

Major General Arnel Dela Vega, 6th Infantry Division commander, said aside from the sustained military operations in the area, massive awareness campaign was also undertaken in the indigent communities to expose the deceptive propaganda used by the NPA in their recruitment of Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

The wounded were brought by soldiers to Sultan Kudarat provincial hospital in Isulan, the provincial capital. Cabunoc said ten other communist fighters who belonged to the IPs community have surrendered to government forces.

Senior Supt. Raul Supiter, Sultan Kudarat police director, said at least 1,000 families had been displaced armed hostilities in Lake Sebu and fled toward Barangay Sumilil, Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat.

Supt. Supiter said the local police of Bagumbayan, led by Chief Inspector Gary Marfil, extended emergency assistance to the affected families. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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DAVAO CITY--The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Davao has called on the public to patronize only Christmas light brands that adhere to government standards.

The local DTI office emphasized that uncertified brands or those that do not have Product Standard (PS) and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) certificates are not properly checked by authorities, and thus, could pose danger as these may cause fire.

DTI-Davao Regional Director Maria Belenda Ambi said consumers must be cautious in buying electric holiday decorations.

"For years now, DTI has really been advocating the use of safe and certified Christmas lights. We want to continuously remind consumers that those which do not meet the standards may cause their lives and properties," she said.

As early as September, the agency already started its monitoring activities throughout the region to ensure that the Christmas lights being sold in the local market are all PS or ICC-certified.

All certified Christmas lights are imported with PS marks or ICC stickers. PS marks are for foreign manufacturers with PS Certification Mark License, while ICC stickers are issued to importers with approved ICC.

The hologram ICC sticker contains security features that can be verified by inspection with a seven-digit alpha-numeric serial number. For 2017, all ICC certificates for Christmas lights issued by the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) from January 1, 2013 to present are still valid.

Starting this year, the validity of the ICC certificates issued for imported Christmas lights shall be for a period of five years.

"Consumers should check that the name of the manufacturer, distributor and trademark are on the product packaging. If they want to gather another proof of the product's quality and certification, they may also ask for a copy of the actual certificate," she added.

The mandatory certification of LED Christmas lights or lighting chains shall be implemented by the BPS using PNS 189:2000 as reference to protect the consumers from the proliferation of substandard LED Christmas lights in the local market.

Exempted from the mandatory certification scheme are: Christmas lights integral in Christmas trees/decors; Rope lights; Meteor tube lights/stick lights/laser lights; Christmas lights using Edison screw lamp holder; Battery-operated Christmas lights; and, other types may be exempted subject to further verification by the BPS.

Ambi encouraged the public to report to the nearest DTI office immediately should they find uncertified or substandard products or have been victims of unscrupulous business practices. (Jenny Mendoza/PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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GENERAL SANTOS CITY--Army and police units here and the neighboring areas have been placed on heightened alert after President Rodrigo R. Duterte formally declared the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People's Army (NPA), as terrorist groups.

Col. Roberto Ancan, commanding officer of the Army's 1002nd Infantry Brigade, said they alerted all their operating units to brace for possible retaliatory attacks as a result of the declaration.

But Col. Ancan assured that they are prepared for any attack  and have been closely monitoring the movements of NPA rebels within their area of responsibility.

The 1002nd Brigade has operational jurisdiction over this city and parts of the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato, Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental.

The city is considered as under the operational jurisdiction of the NPA's guerilla front 73, which is mainly based in South Cotabato province. Other nearby units are the Front 71 in nearby Davao Occidental and Front 72 in Makilala, North Cotabato and Malungon, Sarangani areas.

Ancan said it is only proper to classify the NPA as a terrorist organization due to the rash of "terrorist activities" such as the harassment of local communities, burning of vehicles and heavy equipment, attacks and cases of killings.

Chief Insp. Aldrin Gonzales, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office-12, said the President's proclamation was necessary and reasonable. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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COTABATO CITY–The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DENR-ARMM) has emerged as the region's top remitting agency, submitting over Php100-million Regional Wealth Tax for this year.

Due to the exemplary accomplishment, the Office of the Regional Treasury (ORT) handed over Tuesday a plaque of recognition to DENR-ARMM Secrertary Kahal Kedtag during an awarding ceremony that coincided with the ORT's 26th anniversary celebration held at EM Manor Convention Center, this city.

Other high remitting agencies included the region's Department of Public Works and Highways, Regional Ports Management Authority and the Department of Transportation and Communications.

"Congratulations to these agencies as they gave the highest remittances to the regional treasury," Kanggo M. Umal, ARMM's regional treasurer, said.

Kedtag, for his part, said his office would continue to adhere to its mandate "to give what is due for our region." (PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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GENERAL SANTOS CITY--Health personnel in Region 12 allayed fears of the possible emergence of more severe cases of dengue in the region in the wake of the controversy over the anti-dengue vaccine Dengvaxia.

Dr. Francisco Mateo, Department of Health (DOH) Region 12 assistant director, said Wednesday they have not conducted immunization activities for dengue in any part of the region as the area was not identified as a  priority for the program.

He said the immunization program was only implemented in three regions in Luzon and Visayas.

No local government unit has also purchased and administered the vaccine, although there are residents who were able to get immunization through private doctors, he said.

"(DOH) has already taken steps to address this. Part of that is the intensified surveillance which we have already been doing here in the region," he said in a radio interview.  

French firm Sanofi Pasteur, Dengvaxia manufacturer, earlier announced that the vaccine might have adverse effects on children who have not yet contracted the dengue virus.

DOH has already terminated the vaccination program and, through the Food and Drug Administration, ordered the pullout of the vaccine from the markets.

Mateo advised residents to strictly adhere to the government's dengue prevention and control program, especially the 4S strategy.  

4S stands for search and destroy, seek early consultation, self-protective measures and say no to indiscriminate fogging.

"Whether you received the vaccine or not, this is still the best way to counter dengue because we now have cases throughout the year," the official said.

He reiterated that it is important for households to ensure that there are no mosquito breeding places within their surroundings and immediately seek treatment at the first instance of the emergence of possible dengue symptoms like fever. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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ZAMBOANGA CITY--The City Health Office said that not a single child had been immunized with dengvaxia, the first vaccine to be licensed globally for the prevention of dengue.

Dr. Rodelin Agbulos, City Health Officer, on Wednesday said there was no delivery of Dengvaxia vaccine in this city.

Dr. Agbulos said the Department of Health (DOH) initially planned to deliver the vaccine when dengue cases soared in this city, but it did not push through. She did not elaborate.

Dengvaxia, manufactured by French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi, has been granted marketing authorization in 2015 by Mexico, making it the first vaccine to be licensed in the world for dengue prevention.

However, the DOH has suspended the dengue vaccination program after it was reported that Dengvaxia has dangerous side effect.

The DOH reported that 733,713 children from three regions in Luzon had been vaccinated with Dengvaxia under the agency's school-based immunization program launched in 2016. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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DAVAO CITY—The Department of Energy (DOE) is now gearing for smart grid market technology on the power sector in the country.

DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said the smart grid will empower electricity consumers using the information communication technology gadgets.

"Smart grid will empower you as smartphone users to control your gadgets," he said.

According to energy.gov, smart grid refers to a class of technology people are using to bring utility electricity delivery systems into the 21st century, using computer-based remote control and automation.

"We cannot develop a well-informed decision maker in the consumer without knowing how much the generators are producing, whether it is conventional or renewable. We cannot empower them if they don't know how the transmission works," he said.

He said the technology will promote fairness and transparency on the part of the consumers and accountability on the part of service and generation providers.

"We have to develop a market that embraces a system that has transparency, fair in the field and accountability, the fault if there is a problem on the power distribution will be now pinpointed," he said.

According to Fuentebella, there will be a system operator and market operator as soon as this technology is implemented in the country. He added that such sophisticated technology requires a spot market and renewable energy market (REM).

Fuentebella said the DOE is now conducting series of consultation for the REM in the Philippines, which they started Wednesday in Davao City.

For Mindanao, he said DoE is trying to fast-track things since the island still has no electricity spot market. The spot market is a requirement for the REM and both markets are needed for the smart grid.

He said the DoE has targeted to open the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) in Mindanao June of next year to catch up on the proposed smart grid. (Armando Fenequito Jr/PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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GENERAL SANTOS CITY--The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 12 has linked up with three universities to enhance research and development initiatives for biodiversity conservation in the region.

Reynulfo Juan, DENR Region 12 director, said Wednesday the partnership is part of the ongoing implementation of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-supported Protect Wildlife Project in key biodiversity sites in the area.

He said the three institutions are the Mindanao State University-General Santos, Notre Dame of Marbel University and Notre Dame of Dadiangas University.

The official said they tapped the expertise of the universities to help local project implementers and stakeholders "in making better decisions through science and research and innovation."

These include local government units (LGUs) and Protected Area Management Boards (PAMBs) in the region, he said.

Juan said the partnership mainly expands their continuing engagements with the academe in in the protection and conservation initiatives of our protected areas in Region 12.

He said the project, through the USAID, had signed a memorandum of understanding with the three institutions.

"This is a strategy of strengthening responsive research and development that is responsive to the needs of the LGUs, civil society organizations, regulatory and enforcement bodies and communities, particularly in wildlife protection and enforcement," he said.

Juan said the joint partnership included interventions that engaged the universities in biodiversity conservation research and education to solve the most pressing conservation challenges.

It would push for the development of sustainable practices and technologies for environmental and natural resources-based livelihood in local communities, he said.

"We recognize that effective conservation is not the job of a single organization. It is the result of intensive and creative collaboration among stakeholders in the government, the private sector, communities, among others," he noted.

DENR and USAID had identified the provinces of South Cotabato and Sarangani as pilot areas for the Protect Wildlife Project.

The identified sites are the Mt. Matutum Protected Landscape and Allah Valley Watershed Reservation in South Cotabato and the Sarangani Bay Seascape and Busa Mountain Range in Sarangani.

Protect Wildlife, which was launched in March, is a five-year, P1.2-billion project that seeks to address biodiversity loss and rampant wildlife trafficking in the Philippines.

Mt. Matutum, South Cotabato's highest peak, and the Allah Valley Watershed Reservation are home to various wildlife species, among them the tarsiers, as well as rare flora and fauna.

These areas were known habitats of the Philippine deer, tarsiers, civets, bats, among others. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY – Mayor Mariano Malones of Maasin, Iloilo on Wednesday called for the return of 23 relieved police officers to their posts to help provide security following recent sightings of suspected New People's Army (NPA) in one of their villages.

While some of the relieved policemen are native of their town, Malones believe that they would be a big help in identifying the NPAs.

It can be recalled that 23 policemen of Maasin town police station were relieved from their posts after communist rebels raided their station last June 18.

"As of now, our policemen are having a hard time identifying if the people they meet are enemies or not because they are new to the place," he said.

Malones added that he had raised the concern to Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. and asked for help in lobbying to the Police Regional Office (PRO) in Western Visayas for his request for temporary reassignment of the relieved policemen. 

"I already talked to the governor regarding our concern so that we could provide peace of mind to our residents," he said.

He also requested the provincial government to support his proposal to train all the village watchmen in their town to improve their skills in providing information, especially on the sighting of NPAs in their respective areas. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BACOOR CITY, Cavite – Some 3,000 high school students gathered for the day-long "Bacoor Youth Summit" at the Bacoor Government Center Strike gym here Tuesday to tackle various issues affecting today's youths.

Mayor Lani Mercado-Revilla and Vice Governor Jolo Revilla welcomed the youth summiteers, who donned red shirts bearing the words "Kabataang Bacooreño", and invited resource speakers from the government sector, show business, life coach and police to share insights, inspirations and experiences in their careers.

Vice Governor Revilla, who organized the Summit, shared his experience and advised the students not to make the same mistake of begetting a son at age 15. He urged the millennials to study hard and pursue their education.

Bataan 1st District Representative Geraldine Roman, the country's first transgender woman elected to Congress, said she is proud to be a transgender and that she has strongly pursued her anti-bullying and anti-transgender advocacy.

The legislator discussed Republic Act No. 1063 or the "Anti-Bullying Act" and encouraged the youths to help eradicate bullying in school.

"We must fight for our rights and accept what God has given us as a transgender," Roman said.

Actor-turned-motivational and inspirational speaker, wealth coach and book author, Ferdinand "Chinkee" Tan, shared that he draws his strength and wisdom from a life full of challenges.

He advised students that "to be successful in life, one must know his/her purpose first; maximize the purpose next; and thirdly to give away that purpose."

Tan said "success comes from knowing your purpose, since this will give you direction in life, and never give up to become successful in life."

Film and television actress Jody Santa Maria also revealed how she struggled as a teenage mom after having her son, Thirdy, now 12 years old.

"Mag-aral kayong mabuti, kasi mahalaga ang edukasyon. Kahit artista ako ngayon, nag-aaral ako ngayon ng BS Psychology in Southville International School and Colleges (Study hard because education is important. Even though I am an actress, I'm studying BS Psychology at the Southville International School and Colleges)," she told the millennial crowd.

Santa Maria disclosed that while she dreamt of becoming a doctor, she landed a job as an actress. She said she is nonetheless determined to finish college.

Bacoor City Police chief, Supt. Christopher Olazo, lectured on illegal drugs and their ill effects, especially among the youths and the millennial generation.

He also cautioned the students that "drug addiction will ruin your life and avoid it now".

An open forum spiced up the Summit's discussions while rock bands provided the intermission numbers, prompting the young audience to sing and dance to the beat. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Parents of students vaccinated with Dengvaxia in Central Luzon are in deep concern on the health and welfare of their children who were exposed to unnecessary risks caused by the said anti-dengue vaccine.
 
Delia Cunanan, a resident of Barangay Cambio, San Miguel, Bulacan said that she could not help but fear for his only child Reiner, who was given three doses of anti-dengue vaccine.
 
"What are the steps they are going to do now? They put my son's life at risk," Cunanan said in tears, who admitted having sleepless nights since Dengvaxia manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur admitted that the vaccine could cause more severe cases of dengue for those who had not been previously infected.
 
Parents of Jeric 9, and Joanne, 10, who also completed the three anti-dengue vaccine shots in a public elementary school in San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija are not only worried but also angry with the rush implementation of the dengue immunization program.
 
"Those responsible for the conduct of the dengue immunization to children must be accountable. They put our children's lives at risk instead of protecting them. They turned our children into guinea pigs. Is it because we are poor," parents Joel and Jenny said.
 
Likewise, Gloria Punsalan is in panic since she learned about the adverse effects of the anti-dengue vaccine.

Punsalan said that his two sons, Gary, 9 and Joseph,12 and nieces Tin-Tin and Patrice were given the vaccine shots in a public elementary school in Mexico, Pampanga.

"What will happen to the kids? What are we going to do? How can they solve the mess?", asked the 42-year old mother.

Even a public school teacher in Gapan City, Nueva Ecija who requested anonimity, said she feels guilty for becoming an "instrument" in the immunization drive that put their pupils' lives at risks.

"I hope the health officials and experts could address this problem," the teacher said.

Leonita Gorgolon, regional director of the Department of Health (DOH), however, assured that the agency is doing some measures to minimize the risks such as the close monitoring of all the children in Central Luzon who were given the dengue vaccine.

"We would like to make sure that all those vaccinated will be monitored. We will look for them. We will issue advisories to all the rural health units , district hospitals and regional hospitals  in the region to be alert especially to the grade 4 students who will get fever," she said.

Gorgolon also said that they had already met all the municipal health officers in the region and gave them some information on what steps they need to do, in particular to queries by parents whose children were vaccinated by the said vaccine.

She also assured that the DOH is ready to give free medical services to those anti-dengue vaccinated children who might get sick.

"We are ready to help and if there is a need to provide assistance to the families, we will do that,"  she said.
 
She also said that there were three regional hospitals in Central Luzon, namely Central Luzon Doctors' Hospital in Tarlac City, Jose Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga and the Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija that were ready in case the anti-dengue vaccinated children need to be confined.

Likewise, she added that there are 70 district hospitals in the entire region which would also be tasked to do the monitoring and surveillance of the vaccinated children.
 
Data from the DOH Regional Office 3 showed that a total of 205,058 pupils in Central Luzon were vaccinated with Dengvaxia since 2016.
 
Out of the total figure, Bulacan has the highest number of children given with anti-dengue vaccine with 52,579, followed by Pampanga with 47,358 and Nueva Ecija with 40,996.

Tarlac has  26,670 children vaccinated with Dengvaxia; Zambales with 6,930; Bataan (14,615); and Aurora (5,910). (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BALANGA CITY, Bataan -- Some 13,004 public elementary school children in 11 Bataan towns have completed the third dose of Dengvaxia from April to June 2017, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Bataan said.

Dr. Rosanna Buccahan, PHO chief, said 14,615 children in Grade 5 aged nine years and above were given the first dose from April to June 2016, followed by the second dose after six months of 13,707 children.

"The number of those vaccinated children declined because there were some who transferred to other places and there are others that did not want to," she said.

Buccahan also said her office has not received any complaints or problem after vaccination.

"There is what we call Adverse Event Following Immunization (AEFI). For the whole month after immunization, we are monitoring all children who were given dengue vaccine. Beyond one month, we did not receive any complaint about the vaccine," she said.

The health officer said they were in regular surveillance and monitoring of 13,004 children who have completed the third dose of dengvaxia.

"There is a new memorandum from the Department of Health wherein the monitoring will be for five years or until 2021," Buccahan said.On dengue cases, she said the number went down by 30%.

On the 47th Morbidity Week from January 1 to November 25, 2017, there were 2,015 cases as compared to 2,871 for the same period in 2016.

The fatality rate also decreased from 11 deaths in 2016 down to 5 in 2017.

"We are not missing in our campaign to always keep clean the surroundings. Prevention is the best for the dengue program," she said.

Buccahan said if needed, they conduct search and destroy by fogging and advise villagers for early consultation should dengue symptoms arise.

Buccahan begged off to comment on the death allegedly from dengue of Christine Mae de Guzman, 10, a Grade 5 pupil, of barangay Sisiman, Mariveles, saying she is leaving the matter to higher authorities.

De Guzman died October 15, 2016, some six months after she was given first dose of Dengvaxia on April 6, 2016.(PNA)
DECEMBER 2017

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LAOAG CITY—President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has declared December 8 as a special non-working day in Batac City for the celebration of its 440th founding anniversary.

Duterte issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 372 signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea on December 5 to give Batac residents "full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies."

Being a special non-working holiday, workers who report to their jobs will get 1.3 times of their daily rate while those who will not report to work will not get any pay.

Meanwhile, classes in some parts of Laoag will also be suspended on December 8 as delegates of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) prepare to leave the province.

The schools affected include the Balacad Elementary School and the Balatong Elementary school, including pre-schools along the Laoag International Airport road leading to Gabu and Paoay roads.

Ilocos Norte Governor Ma. Imelda Josefa Marcos made the announcement on the suspension of classes earlier as a matter of security protocol. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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COTABATO CITY--Health officials in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on Wednesday dismissed fears that children in the region could have been given vaccine, commercially known as Dengvaxia, to fight dengue.

Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr, regional secretary for the Department of Health (DOH-ARMM), said ARMM was not a recipient of the controversial Dengvaxia vaccines.

"We are not part of the regions in the country that were supplied with the vaccines during the previous administration, so we have nothing to worry," Dr. Sinolinding told reporters.

Sinolinding recalled that when DOH-ARMM requested for such supplies of vaccines, priority were given to provinces and regions with high dengue cases.

ARMM has one of the lowest number of dengue cases in previous years, averaging only of less than a hundred regionwide. The region comprises the cities of Marawi and Lamitan; and the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

Sinolinding attributed the low dengue cases the past five years in ARMM to massive information drive and conduct of community initiated clean up drive as one of the preventive measures.

At least 730,000 children across the country were reportedly vaccinated with Dengvaxia in 2015 and 2016, and an investigation is being conducted after its manufacturer, French drug company Sanofi, recommended the suspension of vaccination because it could worsen the disease in some cases.

The World Health Organization recommended it be used only in people who had a prior infection with dengue, a mosquito-borne tropical disease.

Sinolinding assured ARMM constituents that DOH-ARMM is not letting its guard down to ensure safety and good health of its people. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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TUGUEGARAO CITY -- The Tuguegarao City Police Station has readied security measures for the upcoming Misa de Gallo from December 16 to 24.

Police Superintendent Edward Guzman, city police chief, said Thursday the security preparation is an annual support program of the police to secure church-goers during the dawn masses.

He said they would deploy both uniformed and non-uniformed police personnel to the different Catholic churches in the city to secure these places.

Police visibility and mobile patrol would be conducted to deter street crimes like pickpocketing, snatching, swindling and roberry/hold-up, Guzman said.

"The presence of police personnel in the church will prevent criminals from engaging in illegal activities against the people who will be entering Roman Catholic churches during the duration of the dawn masses," he added.

Checkpoints manned by the city public safety company and assistance centers will also be activated to check motorists coming in and out of the city. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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LAOAG CITY -- Ilocos Norte police has intensified its security measures to ensure a peaceful conduct of the upcoming Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Forum on Urban Resilience to Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Management Strategies in the province next week.

ASEAN delegates will be in the province on Dec. 4-8 to talk about climate change and how members of the regional bloc could help each other mitigate its impact in their respective communities.

Around 150 delegates are expected to attend the summit to be held at the Plaza Del Norte Hotel and Convention Center.

Checkpoints and police visibility along the national highway are already in place while joint security teams from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police are on full alert status, said Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Director, Sr. Supt. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Saturday.

Provincial Tourism Officer Aianree Raquel said concerned government agencies met at the Plaza Del Norte for security and safety briefing.

The delegates are scheduled to arrive here starting Sunday. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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DAVAO CITY -- This Christmas season, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio wants the public, especially the parents to take a look at the welfare of the children.

"If we will be able to make every child happy and free from hunger that will be a gift that will be enjoyed beyond this season," she said.

The mayor said Christmas is a season of sharing and giving not just the blessing but also their time, efforts and prayer to those who are in need. She hopes that "the light of Christmas will not be only seen in our offices, homes, and establishment but it must be also seen in our hearts".

In the midst of merrymaking and celebration, Duterte-Carpio also called on the people not forget the less fortunate families who are living in hunger.

"Let us be the light to help illuminate the lives of Davaoeños," she said.

Duterte-Carpio extolled the security forces, the police, and soldiers who are sacrificing their time away from their families just to ensure the security of all people celebrating the season.

"Let us not forget to keep in our hearts the soldiers' troops and other law enforcement persons who are forgoing the enjoyment of the holidays with their families so that everybody can enjoy and celebrate this time with our families," the mayor said.

This year, Davao City is elevated to the Hall of Fame after winning in three straight years the Child-Friendly City award.

Her concern for the children especially abused kids prompted her to create the Kean Gabriel Hotline ‎0908-818-4444, a child abuse reporting number. The mayor said that since the establishment of the hotline, the city rescued 483 children.

Last Friday, the mayor led the launching of the PagbaBaGo Kids and the Children's Playpark at the People's Park. (Armando Fenequito Jr./PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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DAVAO CITY -- There is no stopping the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) to conduct "Oplan Bulabog" that has so far resulted in the arrests of more wanted persons.

The operating teams in the Joint Anti-Criminality and Terrorism Operation on Saturday arrested five wanted persons. The wanted persons were identified as Mary Joy Collado; Elmer Ibia for grave slander; Warlito Bayking for two counts of child abuse; Carlo Albinda for violation of SSS law; and, Raymund Nillas for frustrated homicide.

DCPO spokesperson Senior Inspector Maria Teresita Gaspan said simultaneous operations under Oplan Bulabog were conducted in Barangay 23-C, Mini Forest, Puorok 5 and 6, 34-D, Bo. Sori, Barangay 76-A, Matina Aplaya, Zone 1, 2, 3, 4 Km 13, Panacan, Purok 11, Communal in Buhangin, Ilang in Tibungco, Sitio Okoy in Crossing Bayabas, Toril, Purok 17 in Mahayahay, Tugbok, and Feria St., Calinan.

Gaspan said the series of operations resulted in the profiling of 1,898 individual residents among them 1,637 individuals with identification cards and 261 without ID, and the arrest of five wanted persons by virtue of warrants of arrest for various serious criminal cases.

The joint task force is composed of DCPO with Task Force Davao, Philippine Coast Guard Davao, Regional Mobile Unit XI, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency XI, National Bureau of Investigation XI, Regional Intelligence Unit XI, Bureau of Immigration XI and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency XI and Aviation Security Unit XI. (Rhoda Grace Saron/PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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LEGAZPI CITY -- Agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) seized on Saturday night over a kilo of suspected Shabu or crystal meth worth PHP7.6 million during a drug buy-bust operation in barangay Oro Site here, a ranking PDEA official said today.

PDEA agents in a buy-bust operation in a house collared Ismael Onsad alias Opaw who was in possession of a kilo of suspected shabu worth PHP6.9 million while Angelo Ariraya was caught with 150 grams of Shabu worth PHP750,000, both are residents of Purok (sub-village) 2 in barangay Oro Site here, said Christian Frivaldo, PDEA regional director.

Frivaldo in a phone interview said that the suspects were among the high-value target that the PDEA operative had been casing since October 10.

The PDEA team led by agent Enrique Lucero conducted the buy-bust at the suspects' residence at about 9:45 p.m. Saturday.

He said the suspects are considered as major drug suppliers operating in Albay.

According to Frivaldo, the suspects are members of drug supply group wherein it was also the subject of a drug buy-bust operation in October where PDEA agents nabbed Amerodin Cadayon alias Oding -- also a resident of barangay Oro Site -- and seized from him 230 grams of crystal meth with a street value of PHP1.3 million.

Frivaldo said, "our operations are focussed on the supply reduction as we continue to pursue and arrest major drug suppliers."

"While we are putting more pressure on reducing the drug supply we urge the various local government drug enforcers to take the necessary measure to assist in bringing down the demand for drugs," Frivaldo said.

The suspects are temporarily under the custody of PDEA detention facilities here while appropriate charges are being prepared.

Meanwhile, in a follow-up operation, joint PDEA agents from Bicol and Region 4-A nabbed three illegal drug suppliers in a buy-bust operation conducted at about 2:30 p.m. Friday at the E. Aguinaldo Highway, Barangay Anabu II, Imus Cavite.

Arrested were Ronald Paredes, 39; Salvador Durana, 24; and Jonathan Lara, 44.

Seized from the suspects were three knot-tied plastic bags containing shabu weighing 300 grams worth PHP1.5 million.

The suspects were pinpointed as the sources of shabu by Marilex Arbuis who was arrested together with her companion Ceasar Galiza in a buy-bust operation last Nov. 23, 2017, at the CBD Bus Terminal in Naga City. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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LEGAZPI CITY -- A cop was killed while six others were hurt early Saturday in an attack by a group of suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels that fired at two-vehicle police convoy in Barangay Daguit, Labo town in Camarines Norte.

The first volley of gunfire killed Police Officer 2 Richard Abad, a member of Camarines Norte Police Mobile Force, according to Senior Inspector Maria Luisa Calubaquib, spokesperson for the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bicol.

While PO2 Ronald Gutierrez, PO2 Ericson De Vera, PO1 Jeffrey Tarrobago, PO1 Pedro Valeros, PO1 Romar Umandap, and PO1 Johnson Espaṅa were hurt during the attack.

Calubaquib said the victims were among the nine policemen on board two police mobile service vehicles when attacked at around 1 a.m. Saturday by a band of NPAs while their vehicles were negotiating a road along Sitio Binuang, Barangay Daguit, Labo town.

The police convoy was on its way to the Police Mobile Force command station after holding internal security operation (ISO) in villages in Labo town.

Responding police and Army soldiers are now scouring the neighboring hinterland villages where the band of communist rebels is believed to have fled.

Calubaquib when asked on security measures taken with regards to the threat of Jose Marie Sison, founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines, that New People's Army (NPA) rebels would launch an intensified attack against government forces, she said the PNP in Bicol had been placed on "heightened" alert status -- especially in areas considered as insurgency affected villages.

She said Chief Superintendent Antonio Gardiola, Bicol regional director, had issued a directive to all PNP stations across the region to be on "high alert" status under the agency's intensified internal security operations.

Under the directive, police units were advised to stay on guard for a possible rebel attack on a 24/7 basis.

Police checkpoints would be intensified in known rebel-infested areas and they would also step up community partnership and police patrolling in communities.

The directive also calls for a closely-coordinated operation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in securing vital installations such as roads, bridges, communication towers in key areas in Bicol.

She said the PNP is assuring the public that police and other government forces are on top of the situation.

However, Calubaquib said, "we are calling for the public to provide additional information and location of the fleeing perpetrators. Let's not allow terror to reign in our community." (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Police at the Misamis Oriental town of Binuangan repelled a predawn attack by the New People's Army (NPA) Sunday, wounding four police officers.

An undetermined number of NPA guerillas attacked the police station at around 3 a.m. but the policemen held their ground and fought back, said Superintendent Lemuel Gonda, Philippine National Police-Region 10 (PNP-10) spokesperson.

Lasting three hours, the attack wounded Senior Inspector Dante Hallazgo, SPO1 Ramonito Zambas, PO3 Alberto Bernadas and PO1 Joshua Satur. They were hit by shrapnel when an M-203 rifle grenade was thrown in their direction, Gonda said.

The rebels retreated using two hijacked trucks towards the direction of the uplands.

"The NPA terrorists failed on their attack on the police station and failed to get the firearms and retreated to the hinterlands," Gonda said.

The injured cops were immediately brought to Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) for treatment. The provincial government will pay for their hospitalization, said Capitol spokesperson Nicole Managbanag.

Gonda said an undetermined number of rebels were killed or wounded during the gun battle.

The Army's Fourth Infantry Division (4ID) said the attack was already expected.

"That is expected that they will undertake terror attacks in Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon to relieve the pressure it is experiencing in Surigao del Sur," said Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, 4ID chief. "It is believed that important CPP-NPA-NDF personalities are being withdrawn to safer areas."

On Thursday, two ranking NPAs were killed in an encounter with soldiers in Surigao del Sur. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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LAOAG CITY—As part of an intensified security protocol, classes were cancelled in parts of Laoag where delegates of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) are expected to pass by along the Laoag International Airport road to Gabu and Paoay.

Thru an Executive Order signed by Ilocos Norte Governor Ma. Imelda Josefa Marcos on December 3, she ordered the cancellation of classes for Balacad Elementary School and the Balatong Elementary school, including pre-schools along the airport road on Dec. 4 and 8.

Motorists passing through established checkpoints within this area are also advised to bring with them pertinent documents such as driver's license, OR/CR, etc. for security purposes.

Around 150 ASEAN delegates are in the province this week to attend a forum on urban resilience to climate change and disaster risk reduction and management strategies.

The delegates started to arrive at the Laoag airport on Sunday evening and today, December 4. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BATANGAS CITY – Batangas' mega infrastructure projects on airport, seaport and railway are up for possible joint venture partnership following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by the provincial government and a leading Chinese real estate developer firm.

Batangas public information office chief Jenelyn Aguilera said on Monday that Governor Hermilando Mandanas and his official party visited Hong Kong last Nov. 24 where he forged the joint venture agreement with real estate group Teamrise Group Co. Ltd. of China.

Aguilera said the provincial government expects the MOU to boost the huge infrastructure projects on seaport, airport and railway to spur economic development in the province.

She said that Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo, Presidential Special Envoy to China Fernando Borja and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) representative Elmer Cadano witnessed the MOU signing.

Aguilera said the partnership agreement paved the way for the entry of foreign investment by the Chinese real estate development company in six development projects.

She cited information from Bloomberg.com that the Teamrise Group based in Wuhan, China is one of the largest real estate companies engaged in investment, trade, energy development and vision industries.  

It is also actively involved in China's national "Belt and Road Initiative" and the establishment of the ASEAN Development Corporation for continued investments in the Southeast Asian markets. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BACOOR CITY, Cavite -- Hundreds of Bacoorians gathered here for the city's staging on Saturday night of the "Drag Race Competition" at the Bacoor Government Center Strike Gym in observance of "World Aids Day" and the city's drive to fight HIV/AIDS.

City Mayor Lani Mercado-Revilla led city officials, stop HIV/AIDS advocates, employees and hundreds from the lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender (LGBT) community for the "fabulous and grand finale night" of the drag race.

Revilla, through the city government and private sector organizers, has pioneered the 'drag race' which is not about the popular car race but rather a twist for embarking on aggressive roles and innovative strategies on staging a "drag tilt" which refers to transvestites or cross-dressing on women's clothing to signify to move or pull something across the ground to fight the dreaded HIV/AIDS.

The city mayor urged constituents to undergo HIV test to protect them from the disease and encouraged those persons found positive with HIV to seek help from government health authorities as their cases would be kept under strict confidentiality.

"'Wag matakot labanan ang HIV para di lumaganap sa ating pamayanan (Don't be afraid to fight HIV to avoid its spread in our communities)," Revilla underscored as she assured them their names would not be revealed.

Organizers said the pioneering competition hopes to bring awareness and send the message across various segments of the population to address the problem.

The Saturday event drove city folks and families who had rooted for their best transgenders and transvestites contenders for the crown of the "Drag Queen" following a tight contest based on talent, personality, song interpretation, best in costume, among other criteria.

Cash prizes, plaques, title sashes and certificates of participation were at stake for the "drag queen" winners and candidates who were only allowed to use their nom de guerre, aliases or monikers, based on competition rules to protect their real identities.

City officials said the "Drag Race" to fight HIV/AIDS was conceptualized by various non-government organizations (NGOs) especially among the LGBT community to stop discrimination and bullying against the "third sex" who are regarded as "second-class citizens." The event started in 2016 to intensify the information campaign on the disease following the Philippine Health Office (PHO) data which showed Bacoor as among the cities in Cavite with the highest number of HIV/AIDS cases.

The Cavite health office has recorded an upsurge of some 30 cases per day of those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in the province. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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TACLOBAN CITY -- The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has announced the adjustment of premium contributions for employed members starting next year in the bid to sustain the country's National Health Insurance Program (NHIP).

During Monday's multisectoral forum, Rosario Suyom, chief of PhilHealth health care delivery management division said the monthly premium contributions will be at the rate of 2.75 percent or .25 percent higher than the current 2.5 percent.

"The adjustment is necessary to sustain enhancement to program benefits and to effectively respond to growing health care financing needs of members," Suyom said.

The amount is computed straight based on the monthly basic salary, with pay ranging from PHP10,000 to PHP40,000. The amount is equally shared by workers and their employers.

Under the new adjustment, those earning PHP10,000 and below will pay a monthly premium of PHP275. Those with monthly salaries of above PHP10,000 up to PHP40,000, the health insurance premium ranges from PHP275 to PHP 1,099.

Those employed with monthly pay of PHP40,000 an above will have to pay PHP1,100 to avail the government health insurance program.

Additional funds generated from higher premium will be used to finance senior citizens benefits, expansion of Z-benefits for catastrophic illness, primary care benefits coverage of non-indigent members, and enhanced case rates.

Categorized as employed members are those with formal contracts and fixed terms of employment including workers in the government and private sector, whose premium contribution payments are equally shared by the employee and the management.

PhilHealth emphasized that it needs the support of all its members in order to achieve its mandate to provide social health insurance coverage to all Filipinos and to sustain the NHIP.

In 2016, PhilHealth paid PHP101 billion for the benefit expenses of its members and collected PHP103.7 billion in premium contributions.

In Eastern Visayas alone, the state-run corporation is eyeing to pay PHP4 billion in health benefits his year. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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TACLOBAN CITY -- The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has announced the adjustment of premium contributions for employed members starting next year in the bid to sustain the country's National Health Insurance Program (NHIP).

During Monday's multisectoral forum, Rosario Suyom, chief of PhilHealth health care delivery management division said the monthly premium contributions will be at the rate of 2.75 percent or .25 percent higher than the current 2.5 percent.

"The adjustment is necessary to sustain enhancement to program benefits and to effectively respond to growing health care financing needs of members," Suyom said.

The amount is computed straight based on the monthly basic salary, with pay ranging from PHP10,000 to PHP40,000. The amount is equally shared by workers and their employers.

Under the new adjustment, those earning PHP10,000 and below will pay a monthly premium of PHP275. Those with monthly salaries of above PHP10,000 up to PHP40,000, the health insurance premium ranges from PHP275 to PHP 1,099.

Those employed with monthly pay of PHP40,000 an above will have to pay PHP1,100 to avail the government health insurance program.

Additional funds generated from higher premium will be used to finance senior citizens benefits, expansion of Z-benefits for catastrophic illness, primary care benefits coverage of non-indigent members, and enhanced case rates.

Categorized as employed members are those with formal contracts and fixed terms of employment including workers in the government and private sector, whose premium contribution payments are equally shared by the employee and the management.

PhilHealth emphasized that it needs the support of all its members in order to achieve its mandate to provide social health insurance coverage to all Filipinos and to sustain the NHIP.

In 2016, PhilHealth paid PHP101 billion for the benefit expenses of its members and collected PHP103.7 billion in premium contributions.

In Eastern Visayas alone, the state-run corporation is eyeing to pay PHP4 billion in health benefits his year. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BACOLOD CITY -- The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) of Negros Occidental is planning to establish a PHP50 million dressing plant to benefit mainly backyard poultry growers.

Dr. Renante Decena, head of PVO, said most of the dressed chicken products in this city which are sourced from other local government units (LGUs) in the province do not pass through dressing plants.

This is why the provincial government has been working on providing post-harvest facilities to local poultry integrators, he said.

"We will meet with poultry integrators on Monday to finalize the proposed establishment of dressing plant, which is subject to the approval of the governor," Decena said, adding that the construction of the facility is targeted to start next year.

The PHP50 million worth of dressing plant includes the building component as well as equipment like cold storage, ice maker, and trucks.

It will be situated at the Capitol-owned property beside the rice processing center at Barangay Tabunan in Bago City.

Decena said the facility is centrally located for commercial farms operating in the province. Once operational, the dressing plant will cater mainly to integrators who can qualify as backyard scale producers.

Their production should be lower than those of commercial growers, whose minimum production is 3,000 to 5,000 heads.

Under the project, the province will gather 10 small raisers in every barangay with production of 200 heads each. Thus, each barangay will have a backyard production of 2,000 heads.

Through this scheme, it would be easy to collect, harvest and provide inputs to the farmer-raisers, Decena said.

He said the return on investment would also be faster, and biosecurity can be ensured as there is only small number of farmers involved.

Currently, there are only three licensed dressing plants in Negros Occidental which cannot yet fully cater to the entire local poultry business. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BAGUIO CITY— Visitors expected to arrive in this cold mountain resort this holiday season will be greeted with various attractions that they will surely enjoy watching and experiencing.

Councilor Elmer Datuin on Monday said that thousands of tourists are expected to be in Baguio starting December 15, with the peak of tourist arrivals happening from the 20th to the 27th.

Last Friday, it was a colorful and fun day for city residents as well as visitors as they enjoyed the formal opening of the "Christmas in Baguio" with various activities held from morning till night.

The "Silahis ng Pasko" Mardi Gras parade was held at the main thoroughfare in the central business district at 7:00 a.m., participated in by about 5,000 day care children in their Christmas-inspired costumes.

Some were dressed as Santa Claus while some were dressed like gifts with ribbons. There were also children who came garbed as Christmas trees, reindeer and other holiday season characters.

The kids were joined by their parents and guardians who also came in colorful Christmas costumes with themes such as the Nativity Scene.

The Christmas Mardi Gras, now on its 44th year, is an annual event organized by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) spearheaded by the father of "Silahis ng Pasko" organizer, veteran newsman and former city councilor Narciso Padilla.

With an executive order issued for the closure of Session Road, other activities were held in the thoroughfare. There were concerts and stage plays held, with people crowding the street.

A giant art installation by Tinatik artist, Maela Liwanag Jose, at Upper Session Road was also inaugurated on the same day. This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the giant Christmas tree at the Rose Garden in Burnham Park followed by a 10-minute fireworks display prepared by the city government.

The crowd-drawing lantern parade of St. Louis University (SLU) lasted until about 9:00 in the evening that capped Friday's festivities.

Dr. Andrew Macalma, dean of Students Affairs of SLU, earlier said the lantern parade,  now on its ninth year, is the academic institution's contribution and commitment to the city as it opens the Christmas in Baguio every 1st of December.

Recalling how the CICM mission started in the Philippines, SLU depicted its history through lanterns.

CICM which stands for Congregatio Immaculati Cordis Mariae, or the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, is a Roman Catholic missionary congregation established in 1862 by the Belgian Catholic priests.

The lanterns, big and small and in different shapes and colors, depicted the theme "One heart, one mission, the CICM journey," and traced the roots of the CICM in the Philippines.

"Every year, we look at the theme of CICM. Last year, the theme was colors of mission. This year, the mission celebrates its 115th year in the Philippines and we would like to trace back the roots and how the CICM started in the Philippines," Macalma said.

Retracing the history through the use of lanterns, the dean said each contingent is guided by history of the mission, and what were accomplished by the CICM based on the research of Dr. Wilfred Van Haute, who was asked and tasked to come up with a script for the lantern parade.

Bearing the lanterns, the participants from the university paraded down Session Road, passed through Harrison Road and entered the Athletic Bowl in a five-minute performance, which was the basis for judging the winners who are yet to be announced.  (with a report from Pamela Mariz Geminiano/PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY -- The Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON-Panay) pushed through with its caravan protest here even with the cancellation of its two-day national strike which was supposed to start Monday.

Edgar Salarda, PISTON-Panay president, said they are against the modernization program, Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) and the hike in oil prices.

The caravan was participated by more or less 28 public utility jeepneys (PUJs) from Iloilo City and the province. It started from the Mohon terminal in Arevalo district and ended at the Jaro plaza.

Salarda said they roamed terminals in this city to raise awareness among their fellow PUJ drivers of issues affecting them.

PUJ drivers in Aklan province also held a caravan protest while those in Roxas City in Capiz opted to conduct a picket rally.

Salarada reiterated that the modernization program would affect 80 to 90 percent of PUJs in Panay equivalent to more or less 12,000 jeepneys.

The two-day nationwide transport strike was cancelled following the call of Senator Grace Poe for transport groups to instead sit down with senators in a Senate hearing on December 7 to discuss the proposed jeepney modernization program.

"It is a big development. We are hoping that it would be big help for us," Salarda stressed.

Meanwhile, Salarda said that they will ask the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to exempt Panay from the jeepney modernization program like Davao City.

Salarda said that they had previously met with City Councilor Joshua Alim and raised their concern to him regarding their appeal. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BALER, Aurora -- The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) here has heightened its disaster awareness campaign in preparation for the "Big One," a magnitude 7.2 earthquake that could possibly be generated by the West Valley Fault, which is ripe for movement.

"This will be the most devastating disaster that may happen in Metro Manila. Baler is about 231 kilometers away from the City. We are all surrounded by the ring of fire and we should be prepared at all times," said MDRRO chief Gabriel C. Llave, during his lecture over the weekend to students from different schools, Philippine Army and reservists in this province.

He said the public should be aware of the possible impacts and effects of the "Big One."

"Falling objects may also cause injuries. If the public is aware, the damaging effects of earthquake can be minimized. Thus, we should prepare ourselves for such scenario," Llave said.

He told the residents that based on their study the safest place they may go to for refuge is in Sitio Hiwalayan, Barangay Bacong, San Luis, this province.

"It is safe there even from the occurrence of tsunami," he said. 

Llave also explained the importance of the Incident Command System (ICS) which is designed to develop a standard response and operational procedures to all types of disasters and complexities as a result of climate change or terrorism.

"It is now a law under Republic Act 10121 as part of the country's existing on-scene disaster response system that is now being implemented," he added.

Aside from lectures, the Baler MDRRMO is also regularly conducting earthquake and tsunami drills. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY -- This early, the Police Regional Office in Region 6 (PRO 6) is appealing to the public to avoid using firearms during the Christmas Eve and in welcoming the New Year to avoid victims of stray bullets.

PRO-6 spokesperson Superintendent Gilbert Gorero said Monday that the Philippine National Police (PNP) will implement a one-strike policy where the police station commander whose jurisdiction has casualty due to stray bullet incidents will face administrative liability if the case is unsolved within 24 hours.

This was meant to "eliminate casualty and injuries from stray bullet," according to Gorero.

The same policy applies to provincial or city directors if it happens in two or more stations under their jurisdiction. The regional director is liable if it happens in two or more provinces.

"As of now we appeal to responsible firearms holder. Gone are the days when we used firearms to welcome New Year and Christmas Eve," he said, adding that more lives will be saved only if the public will heed the call.

Western Visayas recorded five cases of indiscriminate firing with no stray bullet victims in welcoming 2017.

In addition to firearms, Gorero said they are also appealing to the public not to use firecrackers and pyrotechnics.

He also called on barangay officials to identify areas in their villages where regulated firecrackers will be allowed. It has to be in uninhabited areas, he said.

The Department of Health (DOH) is also advocating the use of "torotot" instead of firecrackers. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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LEGAZPI CITY -- A militant group in Albay claimed to have succeeded in paralyzing transportation, saying that 85 percent or more than 2,000 jeepney operators and drivers here joined the region-wide strike.

Ramon Rescovilla, deputy secretary general of the Concerned Drivers and Operators (CONDOR-Piston), said the strike which started at 12 midnight on Sunday, stranded thousands of commuters in the 14 towns and three cities of the province.

Commuters affected were mostly government and private employees whose workplaces are located in the cities of Tabaco, Ligao and Legazpi, the central business district of the province, where the regional government center is also situated.

The Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO) reported that the suspension of classes in all levels in both public and private schools and universities in the province has cushioned the impact of the transport strike.

Jukes Nunez of APSEMO, in a phone interview, said that aside from the suspension of classes, local government units and other government agencies in strike-affected areas provided free rides to commuters.

Although the two-day nationwide strike was canceled in Metro Manila, the CONDOR-Piston here decided to push through with it because of local concerns which they would like the government to address such as the extension of franchise validity, long overdue request for fare increase, and jeepney modernization program. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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KALIBO, Aklan -- The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) here has cited the need for labels especially when buying processed food this Yuletide season.

Mabel Concepcion, FDA senior regulation officer in Western Visayas, said that consumers must always know the origin of the products being bought.

"This way, consumers will know where to go to in case some concerns had been observed from the products bought. For food being sold in the streets, the local government has a hand in ensuring the health safety of every consumer who may patronize such," she told the Philippine News Agency in an interview on Monday.

The Philippine Christmas tradition include food being sold in the streets. This is especially during the nine-day morning mass leading to Christmas day.

Meanwhile, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-Aklan) on Monday held a training for food producers and processors in the province.

The training is to orient food producers on how to be accredited by the FDA. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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TACLOBAN CITY -- The Department of Health (DOH) has expressed concern over 119 persons with untreated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Eastern Visayas, saying they are at risk of spreading this sexually-transmitted disease.

Roderick Boyd Cerro, chief of DOH regional epidemiology and surveillance unit, said they got the report about "lost to follow" cases from their central office last month.

"We came up with the data by subtracting the number of those under treatment from the total number of screened patients that turned out positive of the virus," Cerro told PNA.

The official said majority of these people are aware of their health status, but some have no knowledge that they are infected. "Some came for screening, but never came back to get the result."

"The best that we can do is to warn the public not to engage in unprotected sex to prevent HIV transmission," Cerro added. The regional office does not keep personal profiles of untreated patients.

The health department has reported 528 HIV cases from 1984 to the present in the region. With an estimate of 20 new detected cases every month, the DOH expects the number to rise to more than 600 at the end of 2017.

Eastern Visayas ranks eighth in the nationwide tally, contributing two percent of the total 38,872 cases in the country as of last year.

Similar to the national level, 79 percent of cases were transmitted due to male-to-male sexual contact.

To detect and treat HIV cases in the region, DOH will establish treatment hubs in every province and city in the region for HIV and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) affected individuals.

The DOH will also open social-hygiene clinic in strategic areas as part of the services provided by the HIV/AIDS treatment hub. At present, the region has only one operating treatment hub for the disease - the Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center in Tacloban City, Leyte.

"HIV has no cure, but treatment can manage the infection, help infected person live longer, healthier and reduce the risk of transmission," Cerro added.

The DOH targets that by 2022, some 90 percent of all persons with HIV would be aware of their health status and would be undergoing treatment.

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. If untreated, a person's immune system will eventually be completely destroyed, according to Avert, an organization based in the United Kingdom. AIDS, on the other hand, refers to a set of symptoms and illnesses that occur at the very final stage of HIV infection.

Preventing the spread of HIV/Aids is one of the targets under Goal 3 of the 17 goals of the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals adopted by world leaders in September 2015. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY -- Issues affecting persons with disabilities (PWDs) will be tackled during the one-day regional congress for PWD slated on Tuesday here in Iloilo.

Judith Tanate, Department of Social Welfare and Development in Region 6 (DSWD-6) focal person for persons with disabilities and senior citizens, said the congress will tackle the rights and privileges and other concerns of PWDs in Western Visayas.

She added that compliance of local government units (LGUs) in the region to Republic Act No. 7277 or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, skills and livelihood training for PWDs, budget allocation for PWD programs and health benefits, and status of employment opportunities for PWDs will also be discussed.

"It is always our aim to further improve our services to our persons with disabilities. The congress will be a very good venue to tackle all the issues concerning them, as well as providing solutions and initiatives to address them," Tanate said.

The Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office of Iloilo City will showcase their best practices in assisting and providing services to PWDs during the congress, Tanate said.

"They will present their programs that benefited number of PWDs in Iloilo City. We are expecting that it would inspire other local government units and as well as replicate their best practices," she added.

The regional PWD congress will be conducted at Hotel del Rio in this city.

Spearheaded by the Regional Council for Disability Affairs in partnership with the DSWD and other concerned agencies, the event is expected to gather more or less 150 participants composed of leaders and focal persons of PWDs, Social Welfare and Development Officers, representatives from the different Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO), among others. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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DUMAGUETE CITY – Amid public fear and frustration over the increased vulnerability to flooding in Barangay Banilad and nearby areas, the mayor of Dumaguete City has promised during a weekend dialogue with residents to source funds for flood control measures.

Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo made the assurance even as he told disgruntled residents that his administration only "inherited" the problem from previous local chief executives and that he is just serving his first year in office.

Remollo promised that once a master plan to include a drainage system and perhaps widening of easements, among others, is ready, he will ask the city council to include funding for the same in the city's 2018 budget.

Although the budget for next year has already been passed, the mayor asked residents and barangay officials of Banilad to cooperate with the city, in that some residences and/or vacant lots may have to sacrifice a portion of their property for a wider drainage system and for its proper alignment purposes.

If they would not donate, then the city government might opt for expropriation, the mayor said.

The dialogue came as the flooding problem in Banilad, particularly the road leading to the slaughterhouse and city jail, is becoming frequent these days with no tangible solutions being considered.

Frustrated residents have lamented that their repeated pleas over the years to address the problem have fallen on deaf ears, as they expressed alarm that lives are at a higher risk today than in previous years.

The volume of water during rains and/or flooding up in the mountains of nearby Valencia is increasing each year due to a shift in climate patterns, and the mayor admits that the lower portion of the road in Banilad to the national highway cannot accommodate the overflowing water.

These days, at the slightest moderate rainfall, this particular road gets flooded and during heavy rainfall, the road turns into a mini-river when the "Sapang Lagnasan," a dry creek, overflows.

City Engineer Edwin Quirit and City Planning Officer Engr. Leonides Caro, during the dialogue admitted that while they have already inspected and mapped out the course of the flooding, they do not have a formal study on the amount of rainfall or the volume of water coming from Valencia that would cause flooding in the lower areas at any given time.

Because of development, with houses and other buildings sprouting around the area, the watercourse has shifted again, leaving city officials with a dilemma on how to address the flooding problem.

Additionally, some lands being traversed by the floodwaters do not have existing records at the assessor's office or no one in the neighborhood could provide information on possible owners, Engr. Caro pointed out. She appealed for help on this.

The city officials also stressed that it is the responsibility of the village chief, Raul Bana, to organize a plan of action at the lower level when flooding occurs while the city is still finding ways to solve the perennial problem.

Mayor Remollo also stressed that residents must also do their share such as refraining from throwing plastics and other trash that clog up the drainage and tributaries.

An irate resident, Philippine National Police (PNP) Sr. Supt. Rey Lyndon Lawas, vented out his anger and frustration during the dialogue, saying that the initiative to hold the dialogue had to come from him instead of from the barangay officials.

He told the city officials that they should inform residents of the city's efforts in finding solutions to the flooding problem instead of just keeping mum about it.

Lawas and other neighbors are the most affected by the floods because it is where the heaviest volume of water from the upland areas exit onto the road down to the highway.

During Typhoon Pablo last Oct. 18, the road turned into a mini-river anew with the floodwaters videotaped by another resident. In the morning, the road was rendered impassable as sand, coconuts, rocks, logs and other debris had piled up after the waters had subsided.

According to Lawas, he and other residents are willing to help pay for the fees in acquiring copies of land titles, after Engr. Caro said the city does not have the money for this.

The Dumaguete mayor initially pledged to take the funding from the city's 20 percent development fund for the flood control measures in Banilad, and assured that with the approval of the city council, the local government will acquire a loan from the bank.

This week, the City Engineer's Office, the City Planning Office and barangay officials will conduct another inspection and promised to call for another dialogue later to update residents on the city's efforts to solve the flooding problem in Banilad.

They also promised to coordinate with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to determine if there is an available geo-hazard mapping of the flood-prone areas here. (PNA)

 DECEMBER 2017

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DUMAGUETE CITY -- The proposed sanitary landfill site at a multi-million peso property in the outskirts village of Candauay here is drawing opposition from residents who cited health, safety and environmental reasons.

During the regular session of the city council last Wednesday, local legislators granted Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo the authority to purchase a 3.5-hectare lot worth PHP18.7 million from spouses Francisco and Salvacion Divinagracia for the sanitary landfill in Candauay.

The move is in answer to repeated notices from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to shut down the city's existing open dumpsite, also in the same barangay, as it is already outlawed.

At the same time, it also aims to address the worsening problem of garbage collection and disposal in Dumaguete, with City Hall reporting an estimated 70 to 80 tons of waste generated daily.

On Friday, residents in Barangay Camanjac, which is adjacent to Candauay, signed a three-page opposition letter addressed to Mayor Remollo, expressing their objection to the proposal.

Bulk of the proposed landfill site is situated in Candauay while part of it is in Camanjac.

The signature campaign, backed by the Catholic Church in Camanjac headed by Fr. Sulpicio Vincoy, expressly pointed out certain parameters in the law that the residents feel must be complied with by the city government prior to the undertaking of the sanitary landfill, said village resident Marilyn Kays, an active campaigner against the proposed landfill.

Residents in nearby Barangay Camanjac are apprehensive because the proposed site is just 100 meters away from the LCP Bloomingtown housing project and a few hundred meters from the river.

Kays clarified that they are not against the establishment of a sanitary landfill as they understand the necessity to put up the facility to address the garbage problem of the city.

However, she added, their concerns center on basic issues like health, as the proposed site is near a populated, residential area; safety, because the site is a lagnasan or a natural course of the nearby Ocoy River; and environmental hazards, with the site vulnerable to flooding.

The signature campaign aims to get as many signatures as possible and will hopefully be forwarded to Mayor Remollo on Monday.

Meanwhile, Loreto Revac, Provincial Environment Management Unit (PEMU) OIC of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) - Negros Oriental, explained Friday afternoon that the establishment of a sanitary landfill will take a lengthy process.

According to him, the first step would be for a technical team of the Mines and GeoSciences Bureau (MGB) in Region 7 to conduct a geological suitability assessment and other processes of the area being proposed for the sanitary landfill.

This will be done in coordination with the EMB and DENR, he added.

Revac further explained that after the joint assessment, recommendations would be made to the regional director for review.

Other processes would include the determination of daily waste generation of the city and social acceptability of the residents/community of the proposed project, environmental impact assessment and environmental compliance certificate, among others, Revac said.

The EMB-Negros Oriental PEMU OIC also assured that a social acceptability would be conducted to determine the sentiments of the residents in the barangays and the community. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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TACLOBAN CITY -- The city government here has transformed Plaza Rizal into a Christmas Fantasy Park after a huge Cathedral Candy Window Christmas Tree was switched on Thursday night.

Mayor Cristina Romualdez switched on the Christmas tree lights, saying that transforming Rizal Park into a Christmas-themed park aims to entertain city residents.

"We're doing this every year for everybody, for the families, for the children, for them to have a place to go where they can feel the spirit of Christmas," Romualdez said.

The cone-shaped Christmas tree, designed by Nick Guarino of Festivali Design and Concept, stands 75 feet tall and is decorated with candy stained-glass pattern and color-changing neon lights. The tree was designed to withstand heat, wind and rain.

Aside from the giant Christmas tree, tiny houses of candy and ginger bread were placed at the roof of Rizal Plaza's stage depicting a Christmas village.

The fountain at the Park was also transformed into a lotus-shaped gigantic tree.

The park is also adorned with candy classic lantern arcs and white star gates, seven lamp lantern posts, Santa Claus photo-ops board, and a blue vintage Nativity retablo standing near the Rizal Plaza stage.

There is also a bazaar at the Rizal Park where people can buy local delicacies and food. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BACOOR CITY, Cavite -- Hundreds of job aspirants and employment seekers flocked to the jobs, trade and livelihood fairs hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the Bacoor City government at the Bacoor Government Center Strike Gym here Thursday.

Dubbed as "TNK or Trabaho, Negosyo and Kabuhayan", the event was graced by Bacoor City Mayor Lani Mercado-Revilla, 2nd District Representative Strike Revilla, and other Cavite local officials.

DTI-Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) Assistant Regional Director Marcelina Alcantara and DOLE 4-A Regional Director Maria Angara-Campita spearheaded the event with DTI-Cavite Director Noly Guevarra and other TESDA officials.

Some 37 companies and firms participated in the jobs fair, such as the SM Group of companies, Asia Brewery, Puregold, Chowking, among other employment agencies, and the government sector, such as the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

TESDA also offered free massage and haircut to job applicants.

DTI-Calabarzon and the Cavite DTI provincial office also led the trade exhibits of Cavite products, featuring the popular Imus longganisa, mushroom chicharon, tahong chips, wine from different fruits, artificial flower decors, and locally produced perfumes, soaps and handicrafts.

Mayor Lani and Rep. Strike Revilla thanked the organizers for staging the sixth job fair in Bacoor City, which generated employment opportunities and jobs for Cavite constituents, hoping to sustain the job fairs to generate more jobs.

DTI, DOLE, TESDA and partner local government units also signed their Declaration of Commitment to spur inclusive growth, scale up livelihood and income sources for constituents, create decent jobs, promote entrepreneurship in localities, reduce unemployment, especially among the youth sector, and intensify education and training that match industry demands.

The jobs fair likewise aimed to intensify the conduct of job fairs and raise public awareness through employment and training sessions on basic labor rights. (Rogelio Limpin/PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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DAVAO CITY -- The Davao Region Upland Agriculture Research Station (DARUARS) will soon convert its 429-hectare property into an agro eco-tourism area.

This was announced by Department of Agriculture (DA) 1I Assistant Regional Director for Research and Regulations Angelina Pancho, saying the construction of the R&D building in the area starts the many developments in the area.

She said part of the planned development includes: Sloping agricultural land technology (SALT), establishment of building for goat production and development of creeks for fish production.

"This [429-hectare property] has a big potential to become an agro eco-tourism area. We can conduct research about climate resilient crops here and more buildings that can help the farmers as well as the IPs," Pancho said Friday.

She also said with more buildings to be established, the more jobs will be generated which can help the indigenous people in the area.

Meanwhile, Digna Sandoval, head of Institutional Development Division of Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR), said the Multipurpose R&D building is part of the Institutional Development Grant (IDG) by their agency in support to the regional stations under BAR.

DA-BAR funded the P4 million worth multipurpose R&D building which plays a vital role in providing farmers the means of access to the various farming technologies generated from the works of the R&D community.

BAR's IDG program supports the acquisition of scientific and information technology equipment; including the establishment and renovation of R&D facilities of the National Research and Development System for Agriculture and Fisheries-member institutions.

During the groundbreaking on Wednesday, DA-BAR Director Nicomedes Eleazar represented by Sandoval, stressed that BAR supported the R&D edifice to provide conducive working environment for the researchers.

Eleazar hopes that the building will serve its purpose of fostering an environment that will facilitate the easier adoption of new technologies that contribute more effectively to tackling the emerging challenges in agriculture, not only in this region, but in other places as well.

Pancho said the donated building will provide innovative generation and relevant information needed by the farmers. (Cherry Mae Palicte/PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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CALBAYOG CITY, Samar -- The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday recognized the Calbayog City National High School as this year's school opening preparation best implementer. 

School principal Calick Arrieta was elated for the recognition in the implementation of Brigada Eskwela, where the school earned PHP3.7 million worth of financial assistance and labor extended by parents and other stakeholders.
"This only shows the importance of the partnership and cooperation that we have been practicing in our school with the parents and other stakeholders," Arrieta said.
The school is the only secondary school in the Eastern Visayas region that received the distinction under the mega category. Listed in the category are schools with 51 or more teachers.
"For the past 11 years, this is the first time the school received said distinction and we are very happy. We offer this award to everyone who has been an active partner of our school," the principal said.
Arrieta noted that the recognition has inspired them to continue their efforts to strengthen their networking with other agencies.

The national awarding for this year's Best Brigada Eskwela implementers will be held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on December 15.

Meanwhile, Calbayog City Mayor Ronaldo Aquino was recognized as the region's outstanding stakeholder.

For the past years, the city government have been extending PHP5,000 each to 198 elementary, secondary and senior high schools for school preparation program.

Other schools in the city that were given recognition as regional awardees as Best Brigada Eskwela Implementer were the Panlayahan Elementary School, Dagum Elementary School, and Oquendo Central School for the elementary level.

For the secondary level, recognized were Calbayog Arts and Design School of Eastern Visayas, Gadgaran Integrated School, and Oquendo National High School for the secondary level.

The annual Brigada Eskwela is the National Schools' Maintenance Week that aims to bring together all education stakeholders to participate and contribute their time, effort and resources to prepare public school facilities in time for the opening of classes. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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COTABATO CITY -- Agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-ARMM), backed by police personnel, are guarding tightly two drug personalities arrested with a total haul of PhP5 million worth of illegal drugs.

PDEA-ARMM Director Juvenal Azurin said the move was to ensure the two high-profile suspects -- Raffy Osama, 22, and Mohammad Tuankali Macalimpas, 47 -- are not rescued by comrades after they were collared in two separate anti-drug operations outside Cotabato City this week.

The PDEA-ARMM headquarters and detention facility is situated in this city.

Azurin said Osama, who trained anti-drug operation with PDEA-ARMM during his on-the-job training in August, is believed to belong to a big drug group operating in Maguindanao, Cotabato City and North Cotabato.

Macalimpas, on the other hand, is a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Osama was arrested on Wednesday in Barangay Upper Capiton, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao after he handed over several sachets in drug buy bust operation.

Seized from him were PhP2.5 million worth of shabu in 10 huge sachets.

A day earlier, Macalimpas was nabbed with two others during a buy bust operation in Barangay Poblacion 3, Pigcawayan, North Cotabato. Seven big sachets of shabu worth PhP2.5 million, a hand gun and shabu paraphernalia were seized from their possession.

"They are both under heavy guard," Azurin told reporters here adding that both are in their watchlist as high-value targets and that their arrest was carried out with the help of local residents and relatives.

"We are not taking chances, the possibility is high that their companions might rescue them," Azurin added.

The two, now detained at the PDEA-ARMM lock up cell have been charge for violating Republic Act 9165 or Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. A separate charge for violation of RA 10591 or Illegal Possession of Firearms has been filed against Macalimpas after a hand gun was seized from him. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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DAVAO CITY – The Office of the Participatory Governance and the different chapters of the Kilusang Pagbabago kicked off Friday the Biyaya ng Pagbabago caravan in Ifugao, Mountain Province and will end in Davao City on December 9.

Undersecretary Joselito Libres said the caravan brings government services and programs to the people.

Biyaya, which means gift, is part of the vision of the Duterte administration for greater people participation for economic inclusivity and foster participation in governance.

Biyaya ng Pagbabago is spearheaded by the Office of Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco, who heads 12 agencies, such as the Philippine Coconut Authority, National Housing Authority, among others.

The caravan involves a multi-sectoral and multi-agency service. It brings programs to the grassroots so that people know how to access them, claim the benefits of government programs especially livelihood.

"If people know how to access the different programs of the government especially those in the rural communities, they will be liberated from poverty," Libres said.

"The President is persistent in addressing the issue of poverty," he added.

The Biyaya ng Pagbabago partners with Kilusang Pagbabago (KP) in delivering the government programs.

Alexander "Rocky" Balili, lead convenor of KP, said KP is a mass convergence of people and organizations from the grassroots, Indigenous Peoples and the Urban Poor. KP is more known as support groups of President Rodrigo Duterte's campaign against illegal drugs, criminality, corruption, and poverty.

"It is an organized sector affected by poverty. We train people on how to access government programs," Balili said during the Kapihan sa PIA Friday.

Balili said a nation is mature if people are more educated and successful if people are active in claiming government programs.

He, however, admitted educating and teaching the people to claim government programs require hard work.

But Libres and Balili said the administration achieved first steps in fulfilling campaign commitment that would liberate people from poverty.

Balili hinted at the President's fight against corruption by minimizing service delivery mechanism; implementing the 72-hour period of processing documents; the Lingap program of Davao is now offered to indigent families nationwide; and the download of projects are done directly to the people instead of the local government units.

In previous administration projects were downloaded through LGUs that these have been politicized and identification of beneficiaries were selective.

Libres said the 8888 complaints hotline has become effective in terms of minimizing corruption and hastening implementation of programs and projects.

Libres, however, clarified programs are not only under the agencies under the Office of the Cabinet Secretary but, there are many being implemented by government agencies that should reach targeted beneficiaries. (Lilian C. Mellejor/PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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PARANG, Maguindanao -- For the second time this week, police authorities have seized illegally cut forest products after having been tipped off by locals about the transport of hot logs.

Chief Insp. Erwin Tabora, Parang town police chief, said five cargo trucks loaded with illegally cut forest products from the towns of Barira, Buldon and Matanog, were flagged down at around 3 a.m. Saturday at a checkpoint here.

Tabora identified those arrested as Alimudin Zainal, 45, cargo truck owner, and his drivers Ali Macauyag,40, Baginda Omar, 30, Yasser Ramalan, 35, Morsin Oting, 38, and Ali Capal,40, all residents of Matanog.

The seized cargo trucks and forest products are now in the custody of police in Barangay Poblacion while the suspects who failed to produce documents for the transport of the illegal logs are detained at the police lock-up cell.

Late last month, the Parang PNP also confiscated forest products amounting to PhP7 million in a police checkpoint. Owners of the seized high quality lumber could not produce legal documents.
Tabora lauded local residents of Matanog and Parang,

Maguindanao for actively supporting the police in implementing forest laws with the help of personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Tabora said police authorities are awaiting court decision where to bring the confiscated forest products. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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DAGUPAN CITY -- The cold months of December and January are expected to cause a sharp decline in the production of milkfish (bangus), the top agricultural product in Dagupan and other coastal areas of Pangasinan.

Dr. Westly Rosario, chief of the National Integrated Fisheries Technology and Development Center (NIFTDC), a research facility of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Dagupan City, has said bangus is a tropical fish and is a hot water fish species.

Being a hot water species, it is therefore just natural that milkfish do not eat much during cold weather, he said.

"This is the reason why milkfish do not grow fast during the cold season, unlike when the weather is a little bit warmer, he added.

Rosario advised fish farmers to sparingly give feeds to their fry.

He warned that remnants of the uneaten feeds will drop at the bottom of the fish pond and will rot to later cause pollution.

At the same time, he called on fish farmers to reduce the volume of their milkfish in captivity or else transfer others to other ponds.

He stressed that summer is always the best time to raise milkfish.

Fish farmers complain to Rosario that aside from the cold weather, the low level of water in their ponds due to the approaching summer is causing them a lot of worries too.

Meanwhile, vendors at the Magsaysay Fish Market here confirmed on Saturday that this phenomenon is the reason for the drop of supply of milkfish in the market, resulting in increased price per kilo of the commodity.

A kilo of milkfish is now being sold here from P140 to P150. A big jump from its previous price of P125 early last month. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga -- The Pampanga provincial government will hold a "show and shine" car display in Barangay Pradera Verde, Lubao on December 9 to entice tourists and car enthusiasts.

The event dubbed "Pampanga Motor Show" aims for the visitors to experience the beauty of the province through cars and motorcycles, said Noel Castro, event coordinator.

He said Governor Lilia Pineda wants to entice car and motorcyle enthusiasts by way of a car show, a festival of the best food offered in Pampanga, and a night concert.

"This will be a free-for-all event. Everybody can come and we hope that they will enjoy the show," he added.

Castro said the motor show will be different from the usual car shows held in the Philippines.

"This will be an outdoor event, unlike those in Manila and other parts of the country where they are held indoors.

This was patterned after the 'show and shine' car show of the US and Canada,'' he said.

"This is open to all car enthusiasts and car club members who will come and set up their own tent and maybe have their picnic and fellowship there," he added.

Castro said organizers are expecting 125 car-participants as it is open to a wide range of cars and motors from big bikes to vintage cars as well as military jeeps, sports cars and Japanese cars.

 The whole day event will kick-off with a motorcade from Laus Group Event Center in the City of San Fernando featuring military jeeps and Volkswagen vintage cars, and the Mutya ning Kapampangan 2017 candidates.

Five categories will be featured in the show — old Japanese toy car, sports car, vintage car, classic car, and military jeeps. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY -- Microsoft will again extend technical assistance to Iloilo City in the digital transformation of its governance, health and education sectors.

Dr. Astrid S. Tuminez, Microsoft regional director for corporate, external and legal affairs in Southeast Asia, met with Mayor Jose Espinosa III Friday afternoon and discussed the possible assistance.

Tuminez is an Ilonggo, whose mother hails from Guimaras.

"She wants to help Iloilo City at no cost for us," said Espinosa in an interview.

They will be coming up with applications that would make it easier for Ilonggo to access the services of the city government.

Espinosa said a team from the city government will be working with Microsoft to implement the digitization program.

Microsoft also helped the city government in coming up its Online Transaction Tracking System (CityServ Application) for the City Assessor's Office. This allows clients to make simple transactions such as transfer, reclassification, rectification and discovery to monitor the status of their requests.

Meanwhile, Espinosa said the new initiative when implemented will boost status of the city, which last month was identified by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) as potential digital city.

"We have been working on it," he said.

Among the areas that needed to be addressed is the slow internet connection.

Tuminezis based in Singapore, which has the fastest internet speed in the world.

There is no timeline though when Iloilo City will become a digital city, the mayor added. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The president of a state-run university here was gunned down by still unidentified armed men early Saturday morning, police said.

Police identified the victim as Ricardo Rotoras, 48, who was shot dead outside his home at Golden Glow North Subdivision in Barangay Carmen, this city, at around 1 a.m.

Rotoras is president of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) at the time of his death.

Police said Rotoras succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds in his body and was brought to the nearby JR Borja General Hospital by his driver, but was declared dead on arrival by attending physicians.

A witness told the police he saw people loitering near the Golden Glow North perimeter fence days before the shooting.

After the shooting, the witness added that he saw two men walking out of the subdivision and fled onboard a black pick-up truck.

Recovered from the crime scene were empty shells fired from a weapon believed to be a .45 caliber pistol.

Rotoras, who served as the head of the USTP since 2006, was also the president of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) for four consecutive terms.

Elected unopposed for the fourth time, Rotoras was supposed to end his two-year term as PASUC head in 2019.

"His unopposed re-election bespeaks of his excellent leadership, hard work, selfless dedication and commitment towards leveling up the standards of education in the country," reads a portion of the article posted on the USTP's website referring to his reelection as PASUC president.

It was during his stint as USTP president that the institution saw two major transformations, first from being declared as Mindanao University of Science and Technology (MUST) to its current status as the center of science and technology in Southern Philippines.

The conversion from MUST to USTP was realized by virtue of Republic Act 10919 through the amalgamation of the MUST and the Misamis Oriental State College of Agriculture and Technology (MOSCAT) in Claveria, Misamis Oriental.

The school has also maintained its level IV status as State University (Highest Distinction), and was adjudged by the Commission on Higher Education and the Department of Budget and Management to be one of the 19 leading state universities in the country.

Rotoras was described as a "dedicated public servant" and "workaholic" by his colleagues.

USTP alumnae Alyssa Clenuar, in her post on social media, said Rotoras' death was "a big loss to everyone" in the university and those that he had extended help in the past.

As of Saturday morning, police said they are still conducting investigation and follow-up operation. They have yet to establish the motive for the killing. (Jigger J. Jerusalem/PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY -- Mayor Jose Espinosa III said it is 90 percent sure that President Rodrigo Roa-Duterte will be coming to this city for the 50th Dinagyang Festival onJanuary 26-28.

Espinosa III, in a coordination meeting with the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc (IDFI) Friday afternoon , said the performances will be maximized for the President to see and do away with lengthy speeches.

"If it happens that the President decided to watch the performances, then he is going to be the first President in the 50 years of Dinagyang to do it," Espinosa said.

Former president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo graced the festival in 2008 but only attended the high mass at the San Jose Church.

Ten festivals from various municipalities in Western Visayas will join the regional Kasadyahan cultural completion and 10 tribes will also compete in the Ati dance competition to be held on January 27 and January 28, respectively.

IDFI president Ramon Cua Locsin said next year's additional attraction will be the "Lighted Floats Parade" in the evening of January 27 and performers from South Korea and New Zealand will join the International Cultural Show.

To ensure a peaceful staging of various events during the festival, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) has created Task Group Dinagyang.

The shutdown of telecommunication signal will also be implemented in specific hours while the suspension of permit to carry firearms outside of residence is also being pushed.

Meanwhile, Rev. Fr. Raymund Alcayaga of the San Jose Parish, said the image of Señor Sto. Niño will be brought to Cebu in time for the celebration of its Feast.

The 2018 Dinagyang Festival is themed "Señor Sto. Niño: Chaste, Poor and Obedient Son of God' while, tagline is "Timeless Tradition, Culture and Devotion." (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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DAGUPAN CITY -- The Provincial Health Office (PHO) has reiterated its appeal to Pangasinan residents to ensure that their homes and surroundings are free of stagnant water to prevent spread of dengue as cases continue to rise in this province.

Dr. Anna de Guzman, provincial health officer, on Friday said Pangasinan reported 4,472 dengue cases from January 1 up to November 30.

This is more than the 3,824 cases registered in the province for the same period last year, she said.

Statistics showed there were more cases reported in the province during the rainy month of August than in any other month of the year. Rainy season results in the presence of stagnant water which is a breeding ground for dengue mosquitoes.

De Guzman again called on the residents to clean their homes and surrounding, and get rid of possible sites for mosquitoes to lay their eggs.

Since most of the victims are school-age children, the provincial health officer stressed the need for a renewed clean-up drive in schools to destroy the breeding places of dengue-causing mosquitoes.

De Guzman said in the case of students, "they can do the extra effort of wearing long sleeves and pants as their protection from mosquito bites."

At home, it is always advisable to sleep under the mosquito net, she said.

The PHO also asked the people to watch out for dengue symptoms such as on and off fever lasting for days, body rashes, weakening of the muscles, and nose and gum bleeding. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY-- A popular hospital here, in collaboration with medical experts, now offers a program that provides comprehensive management and prevention of diabetes through education.

Dr. Eugene Ramos, chief executive of The Medical City (TMC), said whether one is already suffering from the disease or have doubts of being diabetic, it is important that they are properly informed.

"Diabetes is a blood vessel problem. It goes to the brain, it goes to the heart, it goes to the legs. A lot of it you don't really have any symptoms until it happens," he said.

TMC's diabetes and metabolism program can provide wide-ranging management of diabetes and its complication, diabetes screening and its prevention, obesity and cardiovascular through education.

They have five in-house doctors under Dr. Genevieve Sia–Majewski who will guide patients understand diabetes and its possible complications.

Sia–Majewski said diabetes is a "fast growing metabolic disorder." It has affected almost 425 million people worldwide and about 7.3 million Filipinos.

"The program is unique because it provides patients easy access to the multi-disciplinary team composed of diabetes specialists," she said.

It works on the principle of having patients as partners as the former are afforded close monitoring of their health development.

"The partnership is about 'we and the patient together.' The patient has to assume responsibility for his own health. It is not about what the doctors are going to tell you. It's about the patient and the doctor together and doing things together," Ramos said.

Ramos added that as soon as they gather enough diabetes patients, then they plan to come up with a free education program, which will also serve as venue for diabetics to discuss among themselves.

"Education is really important. The more that patients are educated, the more that they are going to ask questions," he added. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BACOLOD CITY -- The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) in Negros Occidental is working closely with the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) to ensure safe meat for Negrenses especially during the holidays.

Dr. Renante Decena, chief of PVO, said over the weekend that consumers should be aware of "double-dead" meat products, and substitutes such as horse meat offered as beef possibly sold in the local markets.

Decena said the provincial government has provided an office space for the NMIS inside the PVO building here so both units can coordinate in ensuring that only safe and quality meat products are bought by consumers.

Unscrupulous vendors may take advantage of the busy market situation when demand is at its peak, he added.

Decena said the provincial government wants to raise awareness that the PVO has its own meat laboratory.

"If they have problems with the quality of the meat products they purchase, they can submit samples for examination," he said.

Decena added that consumers should also look for the meat inspection certificate of vendors posted on the market stalls.

He pointed out that safe and quality meat should have stamps from dressing plants and slaughterhouses to prove that these products have passed the required inspection.

Moreover, consumers are also encouraged to check the appearance of the products.

Fresh meat is pinkish while "double-dead" is pale and has blood clot, Decena said.

"The provincial government campaigns for wholesome, safety, and hygienic meat shops which consumers should patronize," he added. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY -- Five boys drowned in the coastal Barangay of Bacay, Dumangas, Iloilo on Saturday.

Joint teams of the Coast Guard Sub-Station in Dumangas and the Municipal Police Station responded after receiving a call from a friend of one of the victims, said Lt. Ramil Palabrica, commander of the Philippine Coast Guard in Iloilo.

The responders were able to recover the bodies of the victims and were immediately brought to Ramon D. Duremdes District Hospital in Dumangas but were all declared dead on arrival, Palabrica said in an interview.

He said the "five male minors" were swimming near the shore when big waves hit them.

"All of them do not know how to swim so they were not able to survive," he said.

Palabrica said investigation is still ongoing. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BATANGAS CITY -  Governor Hermilando Mandanas hailed Batangas farmers for ensuring not only sustainable agricultural products but most importantly in attaining food security for the province.

Mandanas graced the 2017 Farmer's Day celebration this week of the Office of the Provincial Agriculture (OPA) in Barangay Bolbok in this city, where he and Provincial Agriculturist Engr. Pablito Balantac opened the farmer's week festivities.

He and agriculture officials also toured the agricultural trade fair and exhibits that showcased the array of farm products and agriculture-based food specialities, delicacies, and other crops.  

Jenelyn A. Aguilera, chief of the Batangas provincial public information office, said the agricultural-trade fair and farmers' festival also drew participation from various agricultural firms and investors.

The festival adopted the theme "Nagkakaisang Magsasaka at Mangingisdang Batangueno, Sa Kaunlaran at Kasaganaan ang Patungo," or united Batangas farmers and fisher folks toward development and prosperity.

The farmers' day highlighted a  tour of several farms producing vegetables and fruits as well as producers  agri-crafts and agri-based products by Batangueño farmers and fisher folks from various towns and cities.

The event also awarded the outstanding Batangas farmers and fisher folks for their excellence and contributions to ensuring food sufficiency and adequate agricultural supply to food consumers.

OPA Farm Supervisor Romeo Macaraig said their provincial agricultural demo farms and projects also provide skills training and capacity building for the agriculture sector and introduce latest farming techniques and agricultural technologies.

Macaraig said the farm demonstration showcase and agricultural plots also bring awareness and share knowledge to farmers to boost agriculture through their hard work and perseverance in their farming livelihood.

As part of the OPA-hosted farmers' fest, about 200 knapsack of sprayers and 100 sacks of urea fertilizers were also distributed to farmer beneficiaries to boost agricultural output. (PNA)


DECEMBER 2017

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CEBU CITY – Philippine Airlines (PAL) inaugural flight to Camiguin, PR 2929, took off Mactan Cebu International Airport Friday morning to open its 33rd local destination and 47th local route in the country.

The Bombardier Q300 with 53 passengers including local officials of Camiguin and PAL officials touched down Camiguin Airport at 12:20 p.m. Friday.

Rabbi Vincent Ang, Assistant Vice President for Commercial and Development of PAL Express, said they are opening more local destinations next year with the arrival of five Bombardier Q400, a new generation "jet-like" turboprop, and two more in 2019.

Ang said the opening of new destinations is part of PAL's commitment to provide inter-island connectivity at the fastest time and boost the region's business and tourism activities.

He added that PAL would have also included the Manila-Camiguin route but the current air traffic congestion at the Manila airport made it impossible for now. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BACOLOD CITY -- A total of PHP13.58 million worth of pirated digital video discs (DVDs) and compact discs (CDs) were seized by joint government operatives at the New Public Market in Barangay 1, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental late Friday afternoon.

The operation, which was reported by the Police Regional Office-6 on Saturday, was conducted by personnel of Optical Media Board (OMB) and operatives of Kabankalan City Police Station.

Around 5 p.m., the team raided eight stores which yielded 97 sacks of pirated DVDs and CDs, the police report said.

The seized items were placed under the custody of the OMB.

Last September 30, the OMB team also confiscated an estimated PHP14 million worth of pirated DVDs and CDs at the De la Rama Arcade at Plaza Mart mall in Bacolod City.

Operatives led by chief of enforcement Manuel Mangubat and team leader Joseph Arnaldo of OMB-Manila then swooped down on about 20 stalls and seized more or less 100 sacks of pirated items.

The stall owners are facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9239 or Optical Media Act of 2003.

Data from the OMB released in November showed the agency confiscated PHP1.047 billion worth of pirated materials around the country from January to October this year.

OMB Chairman Anselmo Adriano came to this city on November 6 to lead the information drive against piracy in a forum held at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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DAVAO CITY – An estimated half-a-million people including many members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) coming from different provinces in Mindanao converged at the Crocodile Park and Freedom Park, Davao City on Thursday to call for a change to Federal form – Revolutionary government.

At the Crocodile Park, MNLF-Davao head Rolando Olamit led members in joining with Hugpong Pederal Movement of the Philippines. Olamit estimated the crowd at 500,000.

The MNLF under the leadership of Chairman Nur Misuari has been supportive, even pushing for a Federal form of government.

At the downtown area, thousands joined another rally supporting the call for a revolutionary government. It was also a venue to launch a signature campaign – the People's Call for Revolutionary Government.

The pro-revolutionary government supporters were holding their activity at the same time when an estimated 300 leftists were also commemorating Bonifacio Day.

Cesar Tizon, Rev Gov convenor in Davao, said there is a strong clamor for a revolutionary government and they are urging authorities to start working on the proposal.

He said this is also in support to President Rodrigo Duterte's vision for a change. But Tizon said they are also strongly supporting the Federal form of government.

Tizon stressed the rally would be the platform for the people to call for amendment to the Constitution to hasten change.

"We have to pressure Congress to enact the law," Tizon said.

Earlier, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that while the President does not want a revolutionary government, it does not mean he would prevent the public from expressing their support for a revolutionary government.

For now, Roque said the Philippines does not need revolutionary government because there is a factual or legal basis for it.

He also emphasized the President's highest trust rating, as thus, enjoys the trust of the people.

Roque said he does see any threat to destabilize the administration of President Duterte. (Lilian C. Mellejor/PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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DAVAO CITY – The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Region 11 is reminding local government units (LGUs) on the enforcement of the firecracker ban, saying they are required to identify designated areas for fireworks display.

PNP Regional Civil Security Unit chief Supt. Cydric Earl Tamayo also warned the public not to use firecrackers and pyrotechnics in non-designated areas as set by Executive Order No. 28 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte last month.

Davao City and the towns of Bansalan and Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur are not required to identity fireworks display sites because of their local ordinances banning all firecrackers and pyrotechnics.

"Anybody who will use firecrackers outside the community fireworks display areas will be apprehended," he said, adding that anyone who violates the order will be penalized up to P30,000 and up to six months imprisonment.

He said the provincial government down to the barangay level will identify the places where the people can use their firecrackers and pyrotechnics.

"The LGUs will be the ones to identify the area that will be used as community fireworks display areas," he said.

Tamayo said the LGUs will also designate the areas for selling firecrackers and pyrotechnics.

The order entitled "Providing for the Regulation and Control of the use firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices" aims to lessen the firecracker-related injuries during the yuletide season.

Tamayo also reminded neighboring cities, towns, and provinces in the region that transport of firecrackers and pyrotechnics via Davao City or passing through the city is not allowed, saying: "They have to follow it because it's prohibited in Davao City."

He said the firecracker traders already knew about the ordinance but these people asked his office during their meeting if their stocks may pass the city because it will take time and expenses.

"Going to Butuan City, tuyok sila'g Cagayan de Oro City gawas kag Bukidnon and they will pass through Kidapawan City and mubalik pa sila'g Davao del Sur so, medyo layo og ang expenses ano sa ilaha og ang risk tungod sa kalayo (Going to Butuan City, they will turn to Cagayan de Oro City then they will be at Bukidnon and pass through Kidapawan City and going back to Davao del Sur, so the distance is so long, expensive, and risky on their part due to long distance travel)," he said.

Tamayo said the traders can use sea craft in Panabo City to transport their firecrackers to other areas.

"As long as they will not pass Davao City," he said. (Armando Fenequito Jr/PNA)

DECEMBER 2017


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ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The state-run Social Security System (SSS) will open on Monday, December 4, a service office in Molave, Zamboanga del Sur to bring its program closer to members.

Rodrigo Filoteo, SSS vice president for Mindanao west division, said the setting up of the first service office in Zamboanga del Sur will help decongest the number of clients in its supervising branch, SSS-Pagadian City, which currently covers 26 towns and 681 barangays in the province and handles an average of 3,477 daily transactions.

Filoteo said the Molave Service Office, once operational, will cater to 260,476 individuals and 793 commercial establishments since it will have jurisdiction over eight of the 26 towns and 221 of the 681 barangays in Zamboanga del Sur.

In Molave alone, 70,000 members and pensioners will benefit from the service office.

"We have been eyeing Molave as the ideal area to expand the reach of our service delivery in the region. It is a first-class municipality with growing industries and various operating banks. Our clients (in Molave) will no longer have to travel 38 kilometers to Pagadian City to transact their SSS business," he added.

The services to be offered by the extension office will include issuance of forms, Social Security Numbers and Employer ID Numbers; receipt of requests for data amendment, employer reports on newly-hired or additional members, and applications for maternity benefits and salary loans; and, inquiry and verification of SSS records.

SSS Pagadian City Branch Head James Buckly said the SSS Molave Service Office will be initially manned by two trained and qualified SSS personnel.

The service office will hold office at the town hall of Molave based on a Memorandum of Agreement between SSS and the municipal government they signed in July, this year.

Under the MOA, the Molave Local Government Unit offered SSS a rent-free office space with an area of 15 square meters at the second floor of its municipal hall. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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LAOAG CITY — The state-run Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) is set to rehabilitate its sports oval located in its Batac campus. 

Dr. Shirley Agrupis, president of MMSU, said Friday the initial amount of funds needed for the works is pegged at PHP27 million. 

According to her, the upgrading of the 39-year-old sports oval is among the priority infrastructure projects of MMSU for 2018. 

Agrupis also noted that the office of Senator Richard Gordon had earlier pledged Php25 million for the construction of a modern grandstand and stadium with a rubberized oval, so part of the needed PHP27 million would come from it. 

Over the past 15 years, students of MMSU have sustained the university's ranking as the overall champion in the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association-Region 1 Olympics, of which the 2017 edition was recently held at the University of the Philippines, Vigan City. 

With the upgrading of the MMSU oval, Prof. Arsenio Gallego, director of the Center for Human Movements and Studies, believes the university will not only be able to develop more athletes, but also help students and staff obtain good health. 

Agrupis hopes that students will be inspired more to excel in various sporting events. 

Aside from hosting sports events, the MMSU oval is also a favorite venue for social and religious gatherings in the province. (PNA)
DECEMBER 2017


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KORONADAL CITY -- Residents here and parts of South Cotabato will get to experience a glimpse of a "White Christmas" with the unveiling this weekend of the famed annual Christmas display at the provincial capitol.

The local government completed on Friday the adornment of the provincial capitol compound's facade along Alunan Avenue here with a glittering "winter in wonderland" theme.

Marlyn Almaden, head of the Provincial General Services Office, said they spent around P500,000 for the showcase, which is a yearly attraction for local residents and visitors of the province.

She said most of the funds were used for the Christmas decorations and materials, which included recycled items.

"We decided to reuse some materials from last year's showcase to save on the costs," she said in an interview.

Based on the adopted theme, Almaden said the lights and various Christmas decorations are dominantly in white.

She said the decorations include replicas of snowmen and a life-size nativity scene or belen lighted by white lanterns and Christmas lights.

"There's no need for residents to go far and spend thousands just to experience a white Christmas," she said.

Almaden said the annual showcase, which drew thousands of visitors these past years, is open to the public for free until Jan. 10 next year.

Aside from the showcase, the local government has lined up outreach activities, gift-giving and other Christmas-related events.(HST/PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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TACLOBAN CITY -- Concerned with traffic woes, the city government here has temporarily converted five more streets in downtown area into one-way streets.

Traffic Operation Management Enforcement and Control Office head Emmanuel Naval said the new traffic scheme will take effect from December 1 to end of February next year.

"The temporary conversion is part of the ongoing study by the University of the Philippines National Center for Traffic Studies (UPNCTS) to aid the city in coming up with permanent solution to the traffic situation," Naval told reporters in a press briefing Friday.

Temporarily designated as one-way roads are Juan Luna, Paterno, Sto. Niño, Del Pilar, and Salazar Streets.

The city has been implementing one-way traffic scheme in four major highways since 2014 when authorities noticed the increasing number of vehicles after super typhoon Yolanda struck.

Major thoroughfares in the capital of Eastern Visayas region have been used by thousands of vehicles daily, including the 2,000 registered motorcabs for hire.

"The night population of Tacloban is 270,000 and in the daytime, we have a population of more than 900,000. So many come to the city in the morning and that is why the traffic in the city is confounded," said city information officer Bernardita Valenzuela.

Valenzuela observes that the number of cars in the city have been rising recently due to the significantly low promotional car plans being offered to the public.

The traffic scheme is expected to mitigate the traffic predicament especially this holiday season, according to the official.

Tacloban is a 1st class highly urbanized city in the country. It serves as the regional center of Eastern Visayas. According to the 2015 census, Tacloban has a population of 242,089, making it the most populous city in the region. (PNA)



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KORONADAL CITY -- The city government is targeting to start early next year the rebuilding of portions of the town's main public market that were gutted down by a huge fire last October.

Cyrus Urbano, city administrator, said Friday they have started preparation for the construction of new buildings and related structures at the burned right wing of the market.

He said they are currently waiting for the clearance from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) central office for the rebuilding works at the center portion or main area of the fire.

But the official said the BFP has already issued the go-signal for the renovation of the second level of the burned right wing of the market's building on Alunan Avenue.

"We're regularly coordinating with the BFP to fast track the issuance of the required clearances," Urbano said.

About half of the nearly one-hectare public market was destroyed in the fire that erupted shortly before 9 p.m. last Oct. 10.

The BFP said the fire could have been caused by faulty electrical wiring, but witnesses said it started in a stall that sells butane cylinders and other flammable items.

Urbano said the local government already completed the release of around P1.3 million in financial assistance to market traders who were affected by the fire.

He said 322 market stall owners and vendors have qualified for the cash assistance, which was drawn from the local government's disaster response funds.

He said the beneficiaries received P1,000 to P5,000, depending on their occupancy classification.

Citing their records, he said a total of 246 stall owners received cash assistance of P5,000, some 51 occupying the market's Masagana section got P3,000 and 25 "laray" or sidewalk vendors received P1,000 each.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council earlier approved a funding of P1.6 million to assist victims of the Oct. 10 fire that hit the right wing section of the public market.

But Urbano said the released assistance only reached P1.3 million after they sorted the beneficiaries based on their occupancy classification.

Prior to the release of the cash assistance, he said the beneficiaries were required to attend an orientation seminar on fire prevention handled by BFP personnel.(AC/PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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ILOILO CITY -- Iloilo Mayor Jose Espinosa III on Friday encouraged barangay (village) captains to monitor transients entering their respective jurisdictions to verify the presence of the New People's Army (NPA) Sparrow unit in the city.

Espinosa, however, said that based on the initial intelligence gathering of the Philippine National Police (PNP), there is none.

Nonetheless, he said he wanted the movement of transients to be monitored as the city is preparing for big events in December and January.

He said some barangay captains have proposed to implement a "sort of an ID system".

Those who want to rent a house or rooms have to pass by the barangay hall to register so they can be properly monitored.

The Iloilo Police earlier reported that NPA sightings were being monitored in 15 towns in the province.

Last week, an ambush staged by the NPA in Barangay Bolo, Maasin town led to the death of Regional Mobile Force Battalion personnel while 12 others were wounded.

On Nov. 22, two policemen of the Sibalom Municipal Police Station in nearby Antique were wounded when ambushed by the NPA. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BACOLOD CITY -- The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) here is coordinating with local poultry producers to ensure sufficient chicken supply in Negros Occidental during Christmas holidays.

Dr. Renante Decena, provincial veterinarian, said he is scheduled to meet with the poultry industry players on Monday to discuss supply-related concerns.

He noted that although Negros Occidental has steady supply of meat products, including dressed chicken, suppliers need to prepare for the increase in demand with the expected influx of tourists and other visitors this December.

Decena said he hopes other provinces can meet their respective forecasts because poultry integrators in Negros Occidental also supply chicken to other places, including Iloilo, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, and Manila.

"For Negros Occidental alone, we have more than enough supply," he said.

Figures of the PVO showed that during Christmas and New Year holidays, consumption of dressed chicken reaches up to 3 million heads in a month compared to only 1.5 million heads on regular days.

In Negros Occidental, average annual production of dressed chicken by commercial growers is estimated at about 24 million heads. Along with about 4 million colored chickens, production reaches almost 28 million heads annually.

Decena said the production trend is growing as local growers are also increasing.

In Negros, there are local investors who venture as integrators so they can compete with their national counterparts, he added.

During the holidays, Decena said prices of dressed chicken normally increases by PHP3 to PHP5 per head mainly because of high demand.

He noted that the recent increase of PHP1.33 per kilogram in the price of dressed native chicken can be attributed to the cost of freight and handling, not because of lower supply. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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TUGUEGARAO CITY -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 2 director has said that 17 Rain Water Collection Systems (RWCS) in different public schools in Cagayan Province were completed on Wednesday.

Melanio Briosos on Friday said PHP3.2 million were spent to complete the RWCS installations over a period of four months in schools which do not have adequate access to water and sanitation facilities.

Each RWCS system includes one unit reinforced concreted ground storage tank with a capacity of 4,000 liters of water. The water collector can be used in addressing problems of diminishing freshwater supply due to over extraction of groundwater.

Beneficiaries of the projects include Ziman and Paddaya Elementary Schools in Aparri; Bullala Fugu Elementary School in Camalaniugan; Laoc and C. Dela Cruz Elementary Schools, and Sta. Clara National High School in Gonzaga; San Mariano Elementary School and Magapit National High School in Lal-lo.

Water collection systems were also installed at Don Mariano and Calaogan–Capissayan Annex National High Schools, Guising, Dummun, Lapogan, and Calaogan Dakkel Elementary Schools in the municipality of Gattaran; Alcala West Central School in Alcala; and Marus Elementary School in Baggao town, all in Cagayan. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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BACOLOD CITY -- To comply with the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, the city government here is eyeing to construct another sanitary landfill next year.

As of this week, Mayor Evelio Leonardia said a feasibility study is being conducted as they are fast tracking the establishment of the facility.

A second sanitary landfill will be constructed adjacent to the existing landfill in Barangay Felisa, which has become an open dumpsite for lack of maintenance.

Garbage contractor IPM-Construction and Development Corp. (IPM-CDC) dumps unsegregated waste at the existing landfill.

Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu had been warning local government officials that they could face criminal and administrative charges if they continue to operate phased-out open dumps and controlled dump facilities.

It is high time that local government units (LGUs) comply with the provisions of Republic Act 9003, he added.

For his part, Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran earlier said the city government has allocated PHP20 million for the expansion of the sanitary landfill with the construction of a second cell.

Familiaran, who heads the Solid Waste Action Team, had been pushing for the "no segregation, no collection" policy as part of the city's compliance with RA 9003.

Bacolod implemented the waste segregation starting last September 1.

Familiaran said that with the policy, garbage collectors will not pick up the unsegregated wastes of households or business establishments.

"We need the cooperation of everybody for the implementation of Republic Act 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000)," he added.

The "Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000," provides that local government units shall be primarily responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the provisions of this law within their respective jurisdictions.

The law also seeks to ensure the proper segregation, collection, transport, storage, treatment and disposal of solid waste through the formulation and adoption of the best environmental practice in ecological waste management excluding incineration. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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KAWIT, Cavite -- Kawit's pride, Kawit Singing Ambassadors (KAWSA), for the first time is getting a chance to compete in the semifinals for the Manila Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) Search for the Best Choral Group in the children and open categories on Tuesday (December 5).

KAWSA, comprised of mixed choristers who share a common passion for singing and serving God, would be competing in the nationwide competition.

Jeff Moore Ledesma, KAWSA founder and choirmaster told PNA on Friday that they are thankful for the opportunity and experience their God-given talents are taking them.

Ledesma also expressed the group's appreciation to Kawit Mayor Angelo Emilio Aguinaldo and local tourism head Angelo Jarin Aguinaldo, whose trust and confidence in the group have boosted their morale.

He disclosed that the group is jubilant, excited and nervous as they are making the preparations seriously every weekend and is giving their best shot for the national choral competition "in God's glory and name."

As part of their preparation to the criteria, KAWSA is preparing a novelty piece, three "judges' choice" pieces, one of which will be sung during the elimination; and the contest piece "Ilangtulog pa ba" by Arnel de Pano.

The 2017 MBC National Choral Competition, one of the country's grandest choir competitions is open to all ensembles from schools, churches, residential communities, offices and special interest groups slated from Dec. 5 to 9 at the Aliw Theater.

Cash prizes and trophies are at stake with PHP100,000 for the grand champion in the children's category, and PHP150,000 for the open category champion.

For the semi-final round on December 5, KAWSA will compete together with Bitik Children's Choir, Jr. SCPC Chorale, Himig ni Juan, Boscorale, UE Chorale, FEU Chorale, Letran Singing Ambassadors, Coro Obcento, St. Paul College Pasig High School Glee Club and ICP Charismatic Chorale.  (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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BACOLOD CITY -- The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) will maximize its almost a thousand personnel and augmentation forces to prevent crimes.

Senior Superintendent Francisco Ebreo, who assumed his post as officer-in-charge less than a week ago, said in a press conference Friday afternoon that the police will ensure that the presence of uniformed men will be felt.

Mayor Evelio Leonardia urged the police to ensure peace and order to make the Bacolodnons feel safe after he met with Ebreo last Monday.

Ebreo said the BCPO has existing 680 policemen augmented by 311 personnel from the Regional Public Safety Battalion.

He added that policemen in the field should engage with the community so they can easily respond during untoward incidents.

Ebreo held a command conference with all 10 police station chiefs and staff at the city police headquarters on Tuesday.

For his part, Leonardia said the city government wants to preserve the image that Bacolod is a business-friendly city which provides a climate conducive for growth and development.

"We have to create a sense of security for our constituents to feel that our police are working and Bacolod is secure," he added.

Ebreo, chief of the Regional Investigation and Detection Management Division (RIDMD) at the Philippine National Police regional office, was named officer-in-charge on November 25.

He assumed the post after the relief of Superintendent Roderick Minong, while he remains as RIDMD chief.

Ebreo will stay as BCPO chief until Mayor Evelio Leonardia chooses the next city police director.(PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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CABANATUAN CITY, Nueva Ecija -- Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol on Friday confirmed that bird flu struck a poultry farm in Barangay Concepcion, Cabiao town in this province, where some 42,000 chickens were culled last November 21. 

Speaking before members of Butil Farmers' Party here, Piñol did not disclose the strain but said it only affects chickens. 

He denied allegations of cover-up, explaining that in the past, stories about a similar case in a poultry farm crippled the poultry industry. 

Piñol blamed people who sneaked out chickens from affected areas during the first wave of bird flu outbreak into Nueva Ecija for what happened. 

Part of the new quarantine protocol, he said, is the removal of the one-kilometer radius zone culling and seven-kilometer radius zone no transport rule. "It's only in the affected farm," he said of the quarantine procedures. 

To prevent the virus from spreading, Piñol said the DA is working closely with the local government of Cabiao in monitoring poultry products going in and out of the town. 

"But the test is being conducted in nearby farms too," he pointed out. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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LAOAG CITY — Following the successful implementation of the Producers to Consumers (P2C) program of the local governments of Ilocos Norte and Quezon City, a memorandum of agreement benefiting both parties is expected to be renewed early next year.

Edison Natividad, head of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Office of the Provincial Capitol, confirmed this on Friday as he reported that llocos Norte has allocated funds for the purchase of a hauler truck to transport the province's food and agricultural products directly to the Quezon City market.

He said the amount has already been allocated under the province's 20 percent development fund.

For now, the Ilocos Norte government hires private vehicles to transport Ilocos goods to Quezon City.

Running for almost a year now, the P2C program of Ilocos Norte and Quezon City has generated a huge following of around 7,000 Quezon City Hall employees as regular customers, as well as some outsiders who have discovered the regular trade fair at the Quezon City Hall.

To provide better economic opportunities among micro, small and medium entrepreneurs and consumers, the Ilocos Norte government helps organized accredited farmers and local producers here to bring their products to Quezon City.

The Quezon City government, for its part, facilitates putting up of organized market stalls and exhibits at least twice a month.

Through the implementation of the P2C program, organizers hope to protect consumers from unscrupulous traders and price manipulators by providing them direct access to farm commodities. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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SCIENCE CITY OF MUNOZ , Nueva Ecija -- The Rice Science Museum of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) has opened a new exhibit that attempts to engage the youth to become agriculture advocates.

Dr. Diadem Gonzales-Esmero, museum curator, said in an interview Friday that through the exhibit, the youth can experience scientists' workplay through puzzles, learn about rice growing, and listen to stories that can motivate them to finish their food, especially rice.

Esmero also said that children can familiarize themselves with biodiversity and the interaction among vegetables, rice, and insects in the field.

"We have 30 million young people. Contrast that to the aging population of farmers, which averages at 55 years old. For this exhibit, we are educating the children about their role on ensuring food security," she said.

Although the ongoing exhibit, which opened last week, is more focused on the children, the general audience, especially the farmers, will not feel alienated, according to Esmero.

"They will learn about the healthy forms of rice and climate change-ready rice varieties. We also have a corner where they can read and watch about the latest practices and technologies on rice production," she said.

Titled "Wonderful World of Rice", this fifth exhibit also showcases rice arts and artifacts to promote the culture and heritage of rice farming.

Previous exhibits featured rice farming history focusing on Ifugao collections; traditional and modern rice farming practices; colored rice varieties; the colorful Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, Quezon; and the social and technological history of rice. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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DASMARIÑAS CITY, Cavite – A "Balik-Aral Program" fund campaign will be launched on Dec. 7 through the new student council officers' "White Christmas" event at the De La Salle University (DLSU) Dasmariñas Ugnayang La Salle.

The "KALOOB MO, HANDOG MO," is a two-pronged event which raises funds to support education through the "Balik-Aral Program" (BAP) and inculcates among students the value of appreciating and giving in return.

Proceeds of the campaign will go to the DLSU D's One La Salle Fund and the BAP trust fund.

Administered by the Professional Education Department under the College of Education (CoED), the Balik Aral program is a special curriculum that prepares out of school youth for the Department of Education's (DepEd) ALS program.

Volunteer faculty, staff and students from the College of Education also facilitate the program after their regular class schedules.

Enrolment to the program is accommodated year round but organizers advised the beneficiaries to start the program in January to be able to attend the necessary preparations for the qualifying examination held sometime in Oct.
For the out-of-school youth preparation, the actual Acceleration and Equivalent Test (A&E Test) is tentatively scheduled late January or early February every year.

At the fund drive event, BAP's in-house talents will spice up entertainment presentations during the program launch at 4 p.m.on Dec. 7 with an overview and background for the donors to the fund campaign and project accomplishments.

Interested patrons and donors may get in touch with DLSU-Dasmarinas at +6346.481.1900 loc. 3236. (PNA)
NOVEMBER 2017

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COTABATO CITY – A series of earthquakes hit Wao, Lanao del Sur early Friday, including the first which was recorded at Magnitude 5.1, the state volcanology office here said.

In a bulletin, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said the first tremor struck at around 2:57 a.m. and traced four kilometers east of Wao and had a depth of nine kilometers. No immediate report of casualties or damage to properties, the Phivolcs said.

Intensity 5 was felt in Wao and nearby town of Kadingilan in Bukidnon, Intensity 4 and 3 in in Pangantukan and Maramag, Bukidnon, respectively. Intensity 3 was felt in Cagayan de Oro City.

At about 3:06 a.m., Intensity 2.7 also shook Wao and felt at Intensity 3 in Kadingilan town. Six minutes later, another tremor was reported by Phivolcs. All were tectonic in origin.

On September 24 this year, a series of strong earthquakes rocked parts of Mindanao capped by the magnitude 5.4 quake that was traced in the town of Wao. The quakes damaged properties, infrastructures and houses, Phivolcs said.

Following Friday's tremors, the Office of Civil Defense in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OCD-ARMM) deployed teams to Wao to assess the situation and to determine what intervention the office can extend to affected residents. (PNA)

NOVEMBER 2017

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DAVAO CITY – To hasten implementation of infrastructure projects in the second district of Davao del Norte, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez named Vice Governor Alan Dujali as his pointman for infrastructure projects in the province.

Alvarez named Dujali during the mass oath-taking of PDP-Laban members on Thursday in Panabo City, Davao del Norte where he also promised to give more infrastructure projects, hospitalization assistance – charged to him when they are confined at Davao Medical Center, and free medicines.

Alvarez led the mass oath-taking of new members before an estimated crowd of 8,000.

He noted lack of infra projects for District 2 compared to the neighboring province of Compostela Valley which has massive infrastructure projects, like the construction of a six-lane widening and road concreting initiated by their congressmen.

"Si Vice Governor Dujali ang inyong duolon, siya na'y mo-trabaho, mag-estorya mi ani sa Kongreso kanunay with Comval Congressman Ruwel Gonzaga (You just approach Vice Governor Dujali and he will work for it. We always talk about this in Congress with Cong. Gonzaga)," Alvarez said.

Dujali has been groomed by Alvarez as his congressional bet in District 2 for 2018 elections.

Alvarez also promised ABC president Jose Relampagos sone P4 million allocation for an infra project for Barangay Salvacion. (Cha Monforte/PNA
NOVEMBER 2017



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GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The city government has allocated some PhP15 million for the implementation of programs next year that will further improve the welfare of children in the city.

City Mayor Ronnel Rivera said Friday they have lined up various initiatives that would help address the basic concerns of children, among them the need for more learning opportunities and protection from abuses.

"The city government is committed to promote the best interest of all the children in the city," he said in a statement.

The mayor said they will deploy early next year a mobile library and e-learning hub that will serve the city's 26 barangays.

He said these were designed to provide opportunities to children "to be able to read books and use computers for reading activities and computer literacy."

Rivera said the preparatory works are underway for the establishment of a Likay Droga or Lingap sa Kabataang Ayaw sa Droga Center that will function alongside the Bahay Pag-asa, a home for out-of-school youths and children who are victims of violence and crimes.

The local government completed earlier this year the establishment of the Bahay Pag-asa with an activity area for children in conflict with the law or CICLs in Cabuay, Barangay Sinawal with a funding of PhP7.8 million.

He said the center will cater to children and out-of-school youths who are beneficiaries of the Likay Drogra Program.

The city received a Galing Pook Award this year for the Likay Droga, which is a community-based intervention against anti-illegal drug use.

Rivera said the local government will also expand next year the city's Youth and Adults Entrepreneurship Program (YAEG), which will be introduced to children who are at risk and in need of special attention, including CICLs.

Through the Alternative Learning System, he said the beneficiaries will be provided with skills trainings and access to livelihood programs and assistance, in coordination with the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority, he said.

Rivera said the city government is fully committed to address all concerns of children in the city and make sure that not of them will be left behind.(FKA/PNA)

NOVEMBER 2017

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CABANATUAN CITY, Nueva Ecija -- Some parts of this province will experience an 11-hour power interruption on Friday, according to the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP).

The areas that would be affected by the scheduled power outage from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. are those being serviced by the Nueva Ecija Electric Cooperative (NEECO) II-Area I, San Jose City Electric Cooperative (SAJELCO) and Pantabangan Municipal Electric System (PAMES), NGCP regional communications and public affairs officer Ernest Vidal said.

The coverage areas of the three electric cooperatives are the towns of Talavera, Aliaga, Sto. Domingo, Quezon, Licab, Munoz, Guimba, Talugtug, Lupao, Carranglan, Pantabangan and San Jose City.

Vidal said the scheduled power interruption is due to the maintenance and corrective works inside Cabanatuan Substation, and along the Cabanatuan-Pantabangan 69kV line.

He, however, assured that NGCP will exert all efforts to restore power earlier, or as scheduled. (PNA) NOVEMBER 2017



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TACLOBAN CITY -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) is largely counting on easy access to Eastern Visayas as a key to attain 3.23 million annual tourist arrivals by 2022.

The region's strategic location in the central Philippines makes Eastern Visayas accessible by air, land, and sea, DOT Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes said in an interview on Thursday.

"Tacloban is the region's main gateway by air. It is served by three major airlines with a total of 96 flights per week from and to Manila, Cebu, Davao, and by next year Clark. Accessibility is a primary consideration for visiting a place," Tiopes said.

The airport in the regional capital was ranked as the country's 9th busiest in 2016 with 1.1 million inbound and outbound passengers.

"Please note that of the top 10 busiest airports, seven are international airports and we even have a higher volume of passengers than Clark International Airport," Tiopes added.

In Calbayog City in Samar, eight flights per week serve the Calbayog-Manila and Calbayog-Cebu routes. Ormoc Airport in the western part of Leyte has seven flights in a week to and from Cebu. Catarman Airport in Northern Samar has four flights a week from and to Manila.

Air connectivity between Cebu and Naval in Biliran, and between Maasin City, Southern Leyte-Cebu and Tagbilaran is made possible through Air Juan's nine-seater aircrafts.

From April to June 2017 alone, the region's 10 airports recorded a passenger movement of 642,701, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. This is due to the onset of summer season and long holidays during Holy Week.

In terms of access by land, Eastern Visayas serves as the vital link that promotes connectivity between Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Land travel from north to south pass this route via the Maharlika Highway, using roll-on roll-off ports in Southern Leyte and Northern Samar.

"With seaports located in various localities in the region, sea travel between Luzon, other parts of Visayas and Mindanao is also convenient," the tourism official explained.

Tourism stakeholders in Eastern Visayas are eyeing at least 1.31 million to 3.23 million annual tourist arrivals in the region from 2017 to 2022 as outlined in the new development roadmap.

From a 6 percent to 7 percent annual growth target, stakeholders increased it to at least 20 percent annually for both domestic and foreign guest arrivals.

Of the 3.23 million projected arrivals after six years, 81,936 of them are foreign and 3.15 million of them are domestic.

In 2016, the region ushered 1.22 million visitors, a significant increase from the measly 365,000 arrivals in 2011. (PNA)

NOVEMBER 2017

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PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan -- The 20th Cine Europa, which carries the theme "Where Classics and Contemporary Meet", will hold free public screenings of 24 Europe-based films at SM City Puerto Princesa on December 1-3.

The longest and largest film festival in the Philippines formally opened at the Shangri-La Plaza on Sept. 16, said SM City Puerto Princesa public relations officer Russell Fernandez on Wednesday afternoon.

In this year's installment of Cine Europa, the old and the new merge to give Filipinos an opportunity to appreciate the rich artistry and culture of Europe, Fernandez said.

Twenty-four award-winning films from such European Union (EU) countries as Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, and Norway will give moviegoers a fascinating experience to learn more about European culture and values.

Cine Europa began in 1997, stemming from the friendship between the Philippines and the EU.

The Palawan State University also hosted some of the featured films last November 27-29.

Among the 24 films to be shown are "Souvenir", the story of a long-retired singer whose career is revived by love in the form of a young boxer; "Babettes Gæstebud" (Babette's Feast), which follows the story of Babette, a Parisian fugitive following the 1871 Commune of Paris uprising, as she changes the lives of the villagers who took her in; and Sweden's "The Girl, The Mother and the Demons", which tells the tale of Ti, who can neither hear nor see the spirits or demons her mother claims to hear and see in the apartment where they reside. (PNA)

NOVEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY -- Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Director-General Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, on Wednesday evening visited the policemen ambushed by New People's Army (NPA) rebels in separate incidents in Antique and Iloilo provinces to distribute medals and financial assistance.

Dela Rosa first visited the wake of Police Officer 1 Joeffel Odon in Cabatuan, Iloilo. Odon was killed in the November 24 ambush in Maasin.

He extended his condolences to the slain cop's mother Evelyn Odon and handed PHP174,000 from the PNP and additional PHP100,000 from his personal pocket.

Dela Rosa also paid tribute to Iloilo's wounded cops and the men and women of the Police Regional Police Office 6 (PRO 6).

Dela Rosa joined the concert-for-a-cause dubbed as "God Bless our PRO 6 Cops" spearheaded by the PRO 6 Regional Advisory Council for Police Transformation and Development, Bless our PRO 6 Cop Movement and the PNP regional headquarters held Wednesday evening the Iloilo Convention Center (ICC).

Funds raised in the concert, which featured local singers and the PRO 6 Mandirigmang Mang-aawit, will go to the "Peso sa PNCO" program, wounded and killed in action policemen and legal support fund.

At the concert venue, dela Rosa awarded nine of the 15 wounded cops in two separate ambush staged by the rebels in Sibalom, Antique and Maasin, Iloilo with the "Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting (PNP Wounded Personnel Medal) and PHP50,000 each.

In his message, he urged the wounded cops to continue their fight against the NPA. "Let us not fear to die," he said.

He sang two English songs titled "Have I told you" and "All of Me" to the delight of the audience watching the concert.

He capped his engagement in Iloilo by visiting six other wounded personnel who are still recuperating in two private hospitals in this city after the concert. Each wounded personnel was also awarded the PNP Wounded Personnel Medal and PHP50,000 each.

On Tuesday, Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Eduardo Año also paid visit to the wounded cops and at the wake of Odon, representing President Rodrigo Duterte.

He turned over to Odon's mother a total of PHP450,000 from the Public Safety Mutual Benefit Fund Inc. (PSBMFI), Office of the President and personal money of President Duterte.

Wounded soldiers also each received PHP130,000 from the same sources of fund. They all received cellular phones with names of persons in Malacañang whom they could contact anytime.

Each of them is also entitled to one unit of caliber .45 pistol with three magazines as additional gift from Pres. Duterte in recognition of their contribution in the fight against terrorism, illegal drugs, and criminality. (PNA) NOVEMBER 2017



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SUAL, Pangasinan -- Governor Amado Espino III assured President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday that the province of Pangasinan will be drug-free before the year ends.

Speaking during the ceremonial send off at Sual Wharf on Wednesday of the five Vietnamese fishermen apprehended for poaching within Philippine waters last September 23, Governor Espino expressed confidence that Pangasinan, comprising 44 towns and four cities, will be drug-free before the end of the year.

President Duterte arrived in Pangasinan to send off the five Vietnamese fishermen back to their country, similar to what he did  here on November 2 last year to 17 other Vietnamese fishermen also found poaching in waters near Ilocos Norte.

In his speech at the event, the governor assured the continuing all-out support of Pangasinan to President Duterte's war on illegal drugs.

He also said the Pangasinan police is likewise optimistic that before the year ends, Pangasinan will be "100 percent drug-free."

Based on the latest official report from the Pangasinan provincial police, 99 percent of its 1,259 drug-affected barangays are already cleared of illegal substances.

There are now only four barangays in San Fabian and San Carlos City which are still considered drug-affected.  

Espino also reported to the President that Pangasinan was among the first local government units in the entire country to conduct mandatory random drug testing among its over 4,000 workers sometime in August last year in response to the Chief Executive's war against illegal drugs.

At the same time, the provincial government is now building a drug rehabilitation center for drug surrenderers who are not heavy users, on a donated land in Barangay San Vicente, Burgos.

In the same forum, Mayor Roberto Arcinue said Sual, the location of a 1,200 megawatt  coal-fired power plant being operated by Team Energy, is now also drug-free based on the report of the police.  

Governor Espino also thanked the President for the support of the national government through the Department of Agriculture to Pangasinan's agriculture.

This support, he said, enabled Pangasinan to win many national awards, the latest of which was the Quality Corn Achievement's Award which it received four times in a row.  (PNA)  NOVEMBER 2017



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BACOLOD CITY -- The 154th birth anniversary of revolutionary hero Andres Bonifacio was commemorated here by various groups staging rallies calling for conflicting causes: to establish a revolutionary government or not.

At least 2,000 Negrenses attended the launch of the "RevGov Para sa Masa" at the Bacolod Pavillon Hotel on Thursday afternoon organized by the Rebolusyonaryong Alyansang Makabansa (RAM) and Guardians Brotherhood Federal Inc. (GBFI).

Retired policeman Rex Noble, regional chairman of RAM and GBFI, is the lead convenor of RevGov Para sa Masa in Western Visayas, with Edsel Vaflor as the secretary-general.

"We see President Rodrigo Duterte as the guy we have been aspiring for because he is the only president who has been all-out in the campaign against illegal drugs and corruption," Noble said.

Vaflor said there is a clamor from the people to establish a revolutionary government.

During the launching rites, a ceremonial signing of support to the revolutionary government was signed by the convenors, members, and other participants.

Vaflor said they would also set up a website to get people's pulse and to further push their advocacy.

Also on Thursday afternoon, militant groups conducted rallies in three separate areas at the Bacolod downtown area to protest the proposed establishment of a revolutionary government.

Along Gonzaga Street, members of labor group Partido Manggagawa-Negros Chapter tore a paper chain which they said symbolized tyranny.

The group of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Negros gathered on Araneta Street to call for a stop in the campaign for a revolutionary government which they consider a deception.

At the Fountain of Justice in front of the old City Hall, members of Sanlakas-Negros and its allied organizations also expressed their opposition to the establishment of a revolutionary government.

Meanwhile, city officials led by Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran joined the Department of Education officials led by City Schools Division Superintendent Cynthia Demavivas in the wreath-laying rites at the Bonifacio statue located inside the Andres Bonifacio Elementary School campus here.

This year's commeration theme is "Bonifacio: Kadakilaan, Tularan at Makakamtan." (PNA) NOVEMBER 2017



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BACOLOD CITY -- A PHP10.9-million road in Murcia, Negros Occidental backed by the provincial government's special local road fund was inaugurated Thursday.

Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. led the inauguration and the unveiling of the marker of the 900-meter Murcia-Granada road project in Barangay Blumentritt to be officially called the Ming Yuan Avenue.

The area is the site of the Catholic Ming Yuan College in Hacienda Binitin donated by the family of Mayor Andrew Montelibano.

Marañon expressed his thanks to all who made the project possible as he urged those who will benefit from it to give thanks for all the blessings the province has received through the years.

He also hoped that the project will be put to good use especially for the students of Catholic Ming Yuan College.

Montelibano thanked the governor and the provincial government for the realization of the project.

Rev. Fr. Stephen Lu expressed his gratitude to both the provincial and municipal governments for the fulfillment of the project, and thanked the Montelibano family for donating the land.

The officials led the ribbon-cutting while Rev. Fr. Regren Dequiña officiated the blessing rites.

Joining Marañon and Montelibano were Vice Mayor Victor Gerardo Rojas, Provincial Engineer Ernie Mapa, and Ming Yuan College officials and congregation of St. John the Baptist led by Rev. Fr. Lu and Rev. Fr. Michael Hu.

The inauguration rites were followed by the ordination of Fr. Cui Yong Xing at the Congregation of St. John the Baptist Oratorium officiated by Bishop Patricio Buzon of the Diocese of Bacolod.(PNA)

NOVEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY -- About 1,000 protesters from Panay island on Thursday gathered in this city calling on President Rodrigo Duterte to declare a revolutionary government.

Led by the Visayas Management Council of the Hugpong Federal Movement of the Philippines Inc. (HFMP), the rallyists stressed that revolutionary government (RevGov) would be the shortest way for the country to attain change toward federalism.

Fortunato Pelaez, president of the group, said it is still hard for the President to push for his dream of federal form of government over a year and almost six months since he assumed the post.

"Under the federal government, the President would be able to clean the corrupted government and would remove criminality and illegal drugs in our society," he said.

"If we dream of a brighter future for our children, it is high time that we leave with a legacy of change in our society," he added.

The pro-RevGov protesters started with a caravan and parade from the provincial capitol here and staged their rally at the Plazoleta Gay, Iznart Street, City proper.

Pelaez expressed hope that the Chief Executive would hear their call and declare a revolutionary government "now."

The group's protest in this city is in conjunction with the country's commemoration of the 154th birth anniversary of the Andres Bonifacio, the Father of Philippine Revolution.

Ilonggos also observed the anniversary through a simple program at the monument of Bonifacio in the village of Tanza, Iloilo City.

Meanwhile, Mayor Jose Espinosa III stressed the value of unity of all Ilonggos and every Filipino people across the country in the attainment of progress.

In his speech during the simple program, Dominique Maquiran, associate professor of the University of the Philippines in Visayas inspired the Ilonggos by pointing out how Bonifacio has offered his life and bravely fought against the invaders of our country long time ago.

"Bonifacio's revolution is relevant in his age but still very relevant in the ages to come. Revolution is important in the areas of education with our great educators today and in the area of government with our great leaders today. Revolution is needed for positive change," he stressed. (PNA)

NOVEMBER 2017

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ILOILO CITY -- About 1,000 protesters from Panay island on Thursday gathered in this city calling on President Rodrigo Duterte to declare a revolutionary government.

Led by the Visayas Management Council of the Hugpong Federal Movement of the Philippines Inc. (HFMP), the rallyists stressed that revolutionary government (RevGov) would be the shortest way for the country to attain change toward federalism.

Fortunato Pelaez, president of the group, said it is still hard for the President to push for his dream of federal form of government over a year and almost six months since he assumed the post.

"Under the federal government, the President would be able to clean the corrupted government and would remove criminality and illegal drugs in our society," he said.

"If we dream of a brighter future for our children, it is high time that we leave with a legacy of change in our society," he added.

The pro-RevGov protesters started with a caravan and parade from the provincial capitol here and staged their rally at the Plazoleta Gay, Iznart Street, City proper.

Pelaez expressed hope that the Chief Executive would hear their call and declare a revolutionary government "now."

The group's protest in this city is in conjunction with the country's commemoration of the 154th birth anniversary of the Andres Bonifacio, the Father of Philippine Revolution.

Ilonggos also observed the anniversary through a simple program at the monument of Bonifacio in the village of Tanza, Iloilo City.

Meanwhile, Mayor Jose Espinosa III stressed the value of unity of all Ilonggos and every Filipino people across the country in the attainment of progress.

In his speech during the simple program, Dominique Maquiran, associate professor of the University of the Philippines in Visayas inspired the Ilonggos by pointing out how Bonifacio has offered his life and bravely fought against the invaders of our country long time ago.

"Bonifacio's revolution is relevant in his age but still very relevant in the ages to come. Revolution is important in the areas of education with our great educators today and in the area of government with our great leaders today. Revolution is needed for positive change," he stressed. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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LEGAZPI CITY -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) regional office for Bicol has turned over and distributed a total of PHP38.9 million worth of equipment and postharvest machineries to qualified farmers associations and multi-purpose cooperatives in Pili, Camarines Sur.

Emily Bordado, DA regional information officer, in a phone interview Thursday, said the distribution of machineries is part of the agency's objective to reduce post- harvest cost and losses.

Under the department's Rice Program, distributed were PHP23.4 million worth of hand tractor with trailer, palay tresher, rice combine harvester, and mini 4WD tractor (36 HP) to various irrigators/farmers associations of Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte and Sorsogon, Bordado noted.

Under the Corn Program, on the other hand, awarded were PHP13.6 million worth of four-wheel drive tractor, mechanical corn sheller, cassava granulator and cassava chipper to farmers' associations and cooperatives of Camarines Sur, Masbate and Sorsogon.

Meanwhile, distributed under the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) were PHP1.9 million worth of peanut sheller, knapsack sprayer and 4WD tractor to farmers' associations of Camarines Sur and Albay.

Efren Duca Jr., recipient of farm equipment and chairman of San Fernando Farmers' Federation for Agricultural and Community Development in Camarines Sur, said his group was provided with a combine harvester and a 4WD tractor, which they consider as early Christmas gifts from the government.

Rodel Tornilla, DA Regional Technical Director for Operations, encouraged the beneficiaries to be more responsible owners of the machineries considering that these were given free.

The members should be responsible for the maintenance of the equipment, he said.

Tornilla also said that those who received the equipment are fortunate because next time, the program would already implement a loan scheme with 2 percent annual interest payable within four years. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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BAGUIO CITY — Hundreds of residents here and from various provinces in the Cordillera region joined Thursday's nationwide rallies calling on the people to push the declaration of a revolutionary government by President Rodrigo Duterte.

Atty. Jerry Marave, regional director of the Cordillera Hukbong Federal Movement of the Philippines, during the motorcade here this afternoon, said their group continues to conduct information campaigns on Federalism, its advantages and how it will help attain the change that many Filipinos clamor for.

Marave's group pushes for a shift to the Federal form of government and has sub-chapters region-wide, as well as in other provinces of the country.

He said their membership is increasing, proof that many people support the Duterte's call for a change in the system and in the lives of Filipinos.

Marave said he believes in the President's sincerity in wanting to leave a legacy of an improved life for his countrymen, adding that this goal is achievable.

"We are optimistic that the good programs of the President will succeed. He has the political will, which was not present in the others," he said.
Marave compared the present Presidential form of government to Federalism, saying, "the form of government that we have has been in existence for a long time, yet, we have not seen good change in our lives. The poor become poorer and we see the shift in government as a means that would trigger the change that we are all aspiring for."

On the other hand, Baguio Councilor Michael Lawana, who was among those who organized the "RevGov for Cordillera Federal State" rally here, said the Cordillerans' clamor for autonomy is similar to the Federal form of government that Duterte is pushing for.

"We are here (rally) to show our support, that we want Federalism," Lawana said.

In a federal system, programs will be implemented locally and the respective states will have a call on how they should run their affairs and not be dictated upon by those in the national government.

Lawana also said that Duterte's programs are already rolling off – those against drugs and corruption -- but the change in the form of government to federalism has yet to see the light.

"That is why we need to show our force that we really want a shift to federalism," she added.

Meanwhile, Atty. Larry Gadon, who is behind the impeachment complaint against Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, joined the rally in the city.

"We are here to join the others wanting to have a revolutionary government under President Duterte," Gadon said. "This day, Bonifacio Day, is historic. This is the start of the call of the Filipinos who want the declaration of a revolutionary government."

Gadon explained their concept of a revolutionary government. "It is not President Duterte who will declare, it is the people who will declare and we are giving the power to the President to lead the revolutionary government to attain the true change that people want," he said.

"We want this because this is what President Duterte promised when he ran for president and was voted by the Filipinos. He promised to give change but as we are seeing, the President is having a hard time because of the many obstructionists who do it because of their political and personal reasons, and this can only be addressed if we have a revolutionary government," he said.

Gadon also explained the perception that there will be unrest and disorder due to armed struggle once a revolutionary government is established.

"Walang gulo, barilan, walang labanan na sinasabi dito. Sa revolutionary government, bibigyan lamang nating mga mamamayan ng extraordinary power si President na magkaroon ng executive at legislative power na hindi na niya kailangan hintayin ang Kongreso na magpasa ng batas para maisulong niya ang mga pagbabago na ninanais natin (There will be no disorder, gunfight or in-fighting. In a revolutionary government, we will only give the President extraordinary executive and legislative powers where he will not have to wait for Congress to pass a law before he can initiate the changes that we have been asking for)," he said.

Gadon said that the rally was simultaneously held nationwide to show that indeed, many people, not only those in Metro Manila, are supportive of what the President is doing for the country.

Thursday's rally here in Baguio City was held at the Igorot Park at the Central Business District. Guest speakers talked about Federalism and a revolutionary government while a local band provided entertainment. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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DUMAGUETE CITY -- At least 1,000 Negrenses joined the rest of the country in calling on President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to declare a revolutionary government during a rally at Quezon Park here Thursday afternoon.

Contingents from as far as Basay town in the south to Canlaon City in the north converged at Quezon Park as early as 1 p.m. for the scheduled 3 p.m. rally, which was spearheaded by the Kilusang Pagbabago (KP) and the People's Solidarity Federal Party (PSFP).

At exactly 4 p.m., the declaration of support for a revolutionary government was read by KP lead convenor Bingbong Megio of Bais City.

For Duterte supporters in Negros Oriental, Megio said they have successfully delivered the message granting the President the power to declare a revolutionary government.

Megio further said the people's initiative was for the purpose of granting Duterte the revolutionary powers and not for the President to assume revolutionary powers because it is against the Constitution. It is purely the people rising up and giving Mr. Duterte the transitory revolutionary powers and for him to accept it, he said.

The proclamation is for the President to establish a federal system of government and abrogate the 1987 Constitution; run after corrupt public officials in government and in the private sector; strengthen the security of the country through an Internal Security Act; fast-track the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police; destroy illegal drug syndicates in the country and other criminal syndicates; and open up the country's economy to all those who would want to help.

Speakers in the rally included marginalized groups in the community, including barangay officials, a representative from the youth sector, and the former first president of the Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), Dr. Henry A. Sojor.

Meanwhile, another group of Duterte supporters conducted a separate activity at the NORSU Bajumpandan Campus.

The Rebolusyunaryong Duterte group was headed by provincial chairman Capt. Abdias Elnar. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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DAGUPAN CITY -- One of the country's experts in aquaculture and fisheries describes the current state of aquaculture industry in the country as "dismal" on account of the continuously declining production of various species of fish.

Dr. Wilfredo Yap, who in his younger days conceptualized the establishment of mariculture parks to boost fish production, told newsmen here on Thursday that in the past six years, production of aquaculture species such as milkfish, tilapia, shrimps and seaweeds has been continuously decreasing.

Yap, who once worked with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, cited as an example tilapia production in the entire country that remained at 270,000 metric tons yearly and has never reached 300,000 metric tons.

He said it is sad that Bangladesh, a newcomer in the production of tilapia which only started in 2010 or seven years ago, has now overtaken the Philippines.

Yap was among those who left his footprints on the Giant Steps Corner of the National Integrated Fisheries Technology Development Center here, right in front of the Asian Fisheries Academy, for his outstanding contributions to the development of aquaculture in the Philippines.

Asked about what needs to be done to improve the harvest of tilapia, he said among the foremost problems in its production is the disease brought by streptococcus bacteria, tagged as a major cause of tilapia fingerling mortality.

He said unlike other countries such as the United States, the Philippines is not using any vaccine to control the disease, hinting that if this can be solved, there would be more tilapia, dubbed as the poor man's fish, to be produced in the country.

Another major problem, he added, is that in the country, tilapia is being harvested from the farm while they are still small in sizes at four to five pieces per kilo.

"Our families would like to buy tilapia without having to cut it up so that it can served in the dining table at one fish for each member," Yap said.

But in other countries, he added, they always harvest tilapia weighing 400 to 500 grams or half a kilo each, thus they harvest more fish by the kilos than Filipinos.

He said if only Filipino fish farmers can wait a little longer for their tilapia to grow bigger before harvesting them, "our production of fish will easily double."

Yap also noted that because of the malpractice of fish farmers in stocking with very little fingerlings, many of these die.

Other countries have a nursery industry and are only stocking their ponds when their tilapia fingerlings are bigger.

In Indonesia, they grow the fish first in nursery ponds till they are 10 centimeters each in sizes or at about 20 grams per fish before they stock them in the ground pond.

"Of course, if you stock the pond with bigger fingerlings, the mortality is insignificant and would grow bigger and faster in about four months," he added.

Yap said the same trend is happening in the milkfish industry.

He noted that there was a boom in milkfish about 10 years ago, at the time when the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) was actively promoting the mariculture park system and putting them up in feasible areas all over the country.

But he noted that after a change in BFAR administration, there was also a change in program thrusts.

"So instead of boosting aquaculture, BFAR put more regulations in the establishment of mariculture parks and worst, it eventually cast them aside," Yap said.

Mariculture parks are not being promoted anymore, so we can see that our milkfish industry is now dwindling, he lamented.

With mariculture parks, the Philippines used to be world's top producer of milkfish, he pointed out.

Now, the country is producing less than 400,000 metric tons of milkfish a year while Indonesia, the current world's number one milkfish producer, produces 650,000 metric tons.

Yap admitted that no one is investing on new fish hatcheries in the Philippines, that is why the country depends on Indonesia for half of its 2.2-billion fry requirement yearly.

"By importing our fry needs, we are supporting the small-scale hatcheries in Indonesia that actually produce these fry. We have hatcheries but their fry production combined is not enough," he said.

On shrimps, the Philippines was the last country in the world to adopt penaeus vannamei or white shrimps.

P. vannamei used to be banned in the Philippines but a Taiwanese investor brought it in and raised this kind of shrimp in Zambales.

Noting p. vannamei's potential in ensuring food security in the country, then House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. fought for the lifting of the ban on this shrimp species by BFAR.

Yap said it was only in 2007 that De Venecia forced the issue when he asked the Department of Agriculture to legalize p. vannamei.

But although the country is now producing p. vannamei, the government has restricted the importation of p. vannamei breeders which today are being sourced 100 percent from the United States.

Yap noted that BFAR would not allow big-time fish farmers to buy breeders from Singapore, even if one of the American companies that produces and sells breeders of this kind of shrimp has established its satellite office in Singapore.

At the same time, local fish farmers are not allowed to grow the p. vannamei into the size of a breeder.

"The result is, we have the most expensive fry all over Asia. In order for one to buy p. vannamei fry, he or she must have an accredited pond that have certain facilities for bio-security. Aside from the fact that to have one's pond accredited is so expensive, this regulation is discouraging fish farmers and potential investors," Yap said.

Because of the many restrictions imposed by the government through BFAR, many of the country's fishponds cannot be stocked with p. vannamei, preventing the country from producing more shrimps for the dining table, he said.

"Sorry to say, but aquaculture in the Philippines has really taken a back seat because of the strict regulations being enforced by the government, badly affecting fish production," Yap said.

Asked by newsmen if he and his group of aquaculturists have communicated these concerns with the government, Yap said: "Yes, we did. We are awake but it is not easy to wake up persons who refuse to be awakened." (PNA) DECEMBER 2017

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TACLOBAN CITY -- At least PHP1.6 billion meant for the recovery of agriculture and fishery sectors ravaged by the 2013 super typhoon in Eastern Visayas remained unspent, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said on Friday.

Of the PHP3.6 billion Yolanda rehabilitation and recovery program for agri-fishery sector, only PHP2 billion worth of projects have been obligated as of Nov. 15, 2017.

Citing feedbacks from field offices, DA Regional Executive Director Salvador Diputado said in a statement that lack of technical expertise among local government units has caused the delay in the project implementation.

The DA regional office has announced the deployment of seven project development officers tasked to assist the local governments in completing all needed documentary requirements for the immediate transfer of post-disaster recovery funds.

"We are very optimistic that our deployed personnel could really help and make a big difference. Their primordial role is to avert any possibility for the remaining funds to be diverted to Marawi City, which is also in dire need of financial help from the national government," Diputado said.

Specifically, deployed personnel will validate and review submitted documents, supervise the funded projects and check the submission of monthly monitoring and accomplishment reports.

Diputado asked mayors and other local government officials to extend any possible assistance such as temporary accommodation, food and even vehicle for them to be able to efficiently perform their tasks.

Super typhoon Yolanda is the deadliest typhoon in the Philippines on record, killing at least 6,300 people and displaced more than a million of the population in central part of the country when it made landfall on Nov. 8, 2013.

In the badly-hit Eastern Visayas region, a total of 361,985 hectares of agricultural lands had been affected and a conservative estimate of 242,258 metric tons of crops had been lost.

Principally damaged crops were coconut, rice, banana, and abaca. In addition, losses were reported for livestock, agricultural equipment, post-production facilities and fishing vessels and equipment, as well as damage to irrigation systems and rural infrastructure.

Fisheries have been heavily damaged, resulting in lower fish catches due to the impact of the typhoon on boats, wharves and equipment, and to reefs and coastal mangrove forests.

Citing the post-disaster assessment, the National Economic Development Authority said the overall recovery and reconstruction needs for the agriculture sector are estimated at PHP17.36 billion.

Some of these recovery needs have been funded by attached agencies of the agriculture department and non-government organizations. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017



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CLARK FREEPORT — Megaworld's Capital township in Pampanga is set to generate around 250,000 direct and indirect jobs in business process outsourcing (BPO), transport, retail, food, and construction sectors for Kapampangans.


Eugene Em Lozano, first vice president for Sales and Marketing, Megaworld Pampanga, said their first integrated urban township in the north named as Capital Town Pampanga, was introduced six months ago and envisioned to be the premiere central business district of the north showcasing Kapampangan talents.


"Megaworld Corporation in Pampanga will serve as venue to showcase Kapampangan talents as it expect to generate around 250,000 direct and indirect jobs in the BPO, transport, retail, food and construction sectors, among others, all for the people of Pampanga," Lozano said.


"The province is also poised for further development as the national and local government look to develop a master plan for better transportation with the planned improvement of the International Airport and creation of a high speed train system to the province. We have also received an overwhelming number of inquiries from top BPO companies interested to set up operations here in this township," he added.

The 35.6 hectare, 10-year development plan will integrate residential, office, commercial, retail, and institutional components, like what Megaworld usually brings with their townships, along with other unique features such as a Rainwater Park – a catchment basin for storm water, a museum and mall to honor PASUDECO's glorious past, a Casa Emperador, and a Central Square, among other exciting things to look forward to in the township.

This year, Megaworld started marketing the first component of the township – the Shophouse District, which are commercial lots that will highlight the local unique business concepts in one setting.

Similar to the beautiful cities of Europe, it will evoke of neoclassical architecture with art deco details.

There will also be places for civic purposes, such as the events trade hall, an outdoor ampitheater, and other complementary features like tribute statues of Kapampangan heroes, native trees comparable to Japan's cherry blossoms, and cobblestone streets. 

"I am very happy to share with you that the response of the market has been overwhelmingly positive. The take-up exceeded our expectations as we also saw a lot of interest from both the local market as well as those coming from Manila, Quezon City, Makati, and more, in which we appreciate the media's support in communicating our vision out there," Lozano said.
 
He also said that land development started this year and they are preparing to launch other components of the township soon. (PNA) DECEMBER 2017



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BAGUIO CITY -- Children garbed in Christmas-inspired costumes crowded the city's central business district early Friday to mark the official start of Christmas in Baguio City.

Around 5,000 pupils from the different day care centers in the city joined this Friday morning's Mardi Gras parade along Session Road, joined by their parents and guardians who also came in colorful Christmas costumes.

The "Silahis ng Pasko" Mardi Gras is one of the special attractions during to kick off the various activities for Christmas in Baguio City.

The participants' costumes carried designs such as the Nativity Scene and Santa Claus. Small children came dressed as wrapped gifts with ribbons on their head. There were also those who came as Christmas tree, Santa's reindeer and other holiday season characters.

The Christmas Mardi Gras, now on its 44th year, is an annual event organized by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) spearheaded by the father of "Silahis ng Pasko" organizer, veteran newsman and former city councilor Narciso Padilla.

Padilla said the opening rites this morning was marked by a ceremonial pot breaking by Mayor Mauricio Domogan, Rep. Mark Go and city social welfare development officer Betty Fangasan.

The program will also feature a cultural show top-billed by the winners of the children's pageant and talent shows conducted by the social welfare office.

Other activities will also feature the inauguration of the giant art installation by Tinatik artist Maela Liwanag Jose at the rotunda of Upper Session Road at 3 p.m. along with the Christmas concert featuring local talents and other activities along Session Road, the ceremonial lighting of the giant Christmas tree at the Rose Garden, Burnham Park at 5:30 p.m., and the crowd-drawing lantern parade of St. Louis University at 6 p.m. which will be followed by a 10-minute fireworks display.

The whole stretch of Session Road was closed to vehicular traffic starting midnight of November 30 to midnight of December 1 to give way to all the activities and allow the residents to feel the season's joy.

Last November 29, the city lighted the Christmas village at the People's Park featuring different colored lights forming various shapes and opened it to the public. Christmas carols started to be played in the village and will continue until after the holidays. (PNA)

DECEMBER 2017

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