one mindanao - october 28, 2015

Netizens slam city dads’ P5-M travel expenses

SurSur DepEd finds new venue for 2015 Provincial Athletic Meet

YNHS, Mahinog top Lanzones Festival’s dancing competitions

Iligan city career counselors group to guide students for employment

19By: Dominic I. Sanchez

By: Greg Tataro Jr.

Lanao communicators toured NGCP facilities

P166.5 Million FMR: A path to lasting peace

DepEd to subsidize Senior High School fees through voucher program

PCCI seals investment

promotion and policy formulation deal with

Mindanao agency

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Cover Story

National

Western

ARMM

InFocus

Northern

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contents9

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Volume 5 * Issue No.48

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31Southern

3033 32Caraga

By Aurelius P. Arais

By: Joseph Nathan Fabrega

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Carmen coop gets banana powder facilitiesBy: Michael Uy

359th Inter-Agency/LGU Statistics Quiz highlights 26th Natl Statistics Month closing ceremonyBy: PSA-Caraga

18

28NGCP taps Lanao info officers on transmission line safety drive

PIA Regional Offices

One Mindanao

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

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

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

SOCCSKSARGEN Region

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

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)

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

REGIONAL DESK EDITORS FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IXALMA L. TINGCANG, PIA Region IX ELAINE O. RATUNIL, PIA Region X RUDOLPH IAN G. ALAMA, PIA Region XI DANNY E. DOGUILES, PIA Region XII FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region

COPY EDITORSFRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga RegionVENUS L. GARCIA, PIA Caraga Region

SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST

GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region

LAYOUT ARTISTSGIDEON CORGUE, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region XZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region XDAISY JANE M. APIT, PIA Region XIII

EDITORIAL ADVISERS

SEC. SONNY B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information Agency

EDITORIAL BOARD

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

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

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

ASSOCIATE EDITORS NOEMI B. EDAGARegional Director, PIA Region IX

THELMA B. OLIVERRegional Director, PIA Region X

OLIVIA T. SUDARIARegional Director, PIA Region XII

4 October 28, 2015ONE MINDANAO

Cover Story

P166.5 Million FMR: A path to lasting peace By Aurelius P. Arais

5October 28, 2015 ONE MINDANAO

P166.5 Million FMR: A path to lasting peace


This is how Assistant Secretary Edilberto De Luna of the Department of Agriculture (DA) described the effort of DA in implementing farm to market roads (FMR) especially in conflict affected areas. Asec. De Luna visited and led the turnover of three multi-million FMR projects implemented by DA Caraga through the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) last September 29 in Surigao del Sur. The said projects totaling P166.5 Million includes the concreting of 2.41 kilometers San Roque, Cadanglasan FMR in Sitio

Mabog, San Roque, Bislig City connecting boundary of Bunawan amounting P33.3 million; concreting of 5.42 kms. Diatagon Km. 16 (Lianga) connecting Sitio Lagangan, Caras-an - Tago FMR amounting to P66.6 million and road opening and concreting of 5.29 kms. Brgy. Lubo, Cantilan - Brgy. Panikian, Carrascal FMR amounting to P66.6 million.

De Luna said that DA is supporting the point of governance to the five point agenda of the Aquino administration particularly the economic development, justice and lasting peace.

Rural infrastructure sparks economic opportunities and will redound to lasting peace and development.


“Solving the problem on peace matters is not merely using firearms but by giving economic opportunities,” said Asec. De Luna.

The completion of the said FMR’s could boost the community’s livelihood within the service areas who are cultivating various agricultural crops such as banana, corn, rice, and rootcrops due to accessibility of transport to the main highways leading to

the nearest market. De Luna pointed out that DA is now ensuring that FMR’s could withstand various weather conditions to last for longer periods for the benefit of the people. On the other hand, DA Caraga regional director Edna Mabeza urged the residents to avail various DA interventions particularly under the banner programs such as rice, corn, high value crops and organic agriculture to further boost the


agricultural sector in the area.

“DA has various projects and services that you can avail by coordinating with your city or municipal agriculture officer so we can extend our services such as planting materials. By the time you have enough produce we can probably put up a processing center,” Mabeza said.

Engr. Merlinda Baure, Surigao del Sur PAMANA focal person representing Governor Johnny

Pimentel expressed grateful recognition of the contribution of the Department of Agriculture for the development of the province.

PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn or PAMANA is the national government’s convergence program that extends development interventions to isolated, hard-to-reach and conflict-affected communities, ensuring that they are not left behind.

9 October 28, 2015ONE MINDANAO 9October 28, 2015 ONE MINDANAO

SSS launches Quick Card facility for members’ faster receipt of salary loan

QUEZON CITY -- The Social Security System (SSS) has launched the SSS-UnionBank Quick Card as the agency’s newest addition to its growing number of electronic facilities to enable members to receive their salary loan proceeds in as little as three days upon loan approval. SSS Assistant Vice President for Member Loans Department Boobie Angela Ocay said the Quick Card facility, which is offered in partnership with Union Bank of the Philippines

(UnionBank), is initially open to applicants starting on October 27 at SSS Diliman, Makati-Gil Puyat, and Pasig-Shaw.

“We will offer the SSS-

file photo of bworldonline.com


UnionBank Quick Card at three pilot SSS branches within Metro Manila which were chosen based on their high volume of salary transactions and proximity to business districts. Once the process and the system are smoothly running, we will expand this service to more SSS branches nationwide,” said Ocay.

The SSS-UnionBank Quick Card is an automated teller machine (ATM) card linked to a member’s personal UnionBank savings account that would

be opened as part of the SSS salary loan application. The loan proceeds will be credited to this UnionBank savings account within three to five working days upon approval of the salary loan.

SSS-UnionBank Quick Cards are issued to members free of charge on the same day as the salary loan approval. Members can withdraw their salary loan proceeds from any Megalink, Bancnet and Expressnet ATMs, and use them for over-the-counter and online purchases at Visa-affiliated merchants, similar to a debit card.

Since the Quick Card has no expiration date, members can use the same UnionBank savings account every time they want to renew their SSS salary loan. They can also use it as their own savings account where they can deposit and withdraw their funds from other sources apart from SSS.


“We encourage our members to take advantage of the ease, convenience and efficiency offered by the SSS-UnionBank Quick Card. With this card, borrowers can easily access their loan funds from ATMs, instead of waiting for their loan checks from the mail or through their employers,” Ocay said.

Apart from the SSS-UnionBank Quick Card, SSS members can also use their existing UnionBank savings or checking account to receive their salary loan proceeds. On-site UnionBank kiosks and bank personnel will be stationed at the selected SSS branches to assist loan borrowers in opening their bank account for the Quick Card, or to certify the members’ existing UnionBank savings or checking account for the salary loan release.

“Whether they are applying for the Quick Card or enrolling

their existing UnionBank account, members availing any of these two UnionBank programs for the first time must personally file their salary loan application in any of the participating SSS branches,” Ocay said.

SSS members with at least 36 monthly contributions, six of which are posted within the last 12 months prior to loan application, are eligible for the SSS salary loan. The loan amounts range from P1,000 up to P32,000, depending on the member’s declared income and total number of posted contributions.

“Salary loans are only the first among the various SSS disbursements that can be released through the Quick Card. In the future, the Quick Card will also be a channel for the electronic release of sickness, maternity and employees’ compensation benefits as well as pensions,” Ocay added. (SSS)


DepEd to subsidize Senior High School fees through voucher program

PASIG CITY-- The Department of Education (DepEd) will be subsidizing fees of Grade 10 completers from public and private Junior High Schools (JHS) who want to enroll in a (1) private high school, (2) private university or college, (3) state or local university or college, or (4) technical-vocational school, which will offer Senior High School (SHS) starting SY 2016-2017. The detailed guidelines on the implementation of the SHS Voucher Program (VP) through

DepEd Order 46, s. 2015 states that all Grade 10 completers of public JHS, including state


universities and colleges (SUCs)/local universities and colleges (LUCs) JHS are qualified voucher recipients (QVR) and will receive the full voucher value. Grade 10 Education Service Contracting (ESC) grantees from ESC participating schools are also QVRs and will be given 80% of the voucher value.

Non-ESC students from private JHS can apply for vouchers subject to an assessment of their socioeconomic status. If deemed qualified, they will also receive 80% of the voucher value.

A qualified voucher recipient who successfully enrolls in a non-DepEd SHS Provider becomes a Voucher Program Beneficiary (VPB). The SHS Voucher Program will only cover two years, regardless of the number of years it takes for the student to finish SHS. Vouchers are only valid if redeemed within the first semester of the school year immediately after the completion

of JHS. Voucher payments will be released on a per semester basis to the SHS provider where the VPB is enrolled.

A VPB will face disqualification from participation in the SHS VP if he/she drops out in the middle of the school year; does not re-enroll the following school year (unless the reason for leaving school is due to health reasons and that the period of medical leave is not more than one school year); is retained in the same grade level; transfers to another SHS provider within the school year; and/or transfers to a DepEd SHS provider.

A VPB is allowed to shift to another strand or track after the 1st semester of Grade 11 within the same school or after Grade 11 whether in the same school or to another school.

Application for vouchers shall commence on the second Monday of November, and

14 October 28, 2015ONE MINDANAO14 October 28, 2015ONE MINDANAO

shall end on the third Friday of January for manual submissions or second Friday of February for online submissions. The Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) shall post the results on its website on the third Friday of March.

Qualified applicants will be given QVR certificates through

the Online Voucher Application Portal (OVAP) website (http://ovap.deped.gov.ph). They are required to attend the registration program to be scheduled by the PEAC National Secretariat at selected areas in the regions.

For more information, visit h t tp://www.deped.gov.ph/orders/do-46-s-2015. (DepEd)


PCCI seals investment promotion and policy formulation deal with Mindanao agency

PARAÑAQUE CITY – A joint agreement aimed to promote investments and formulate policy agenda that will enhance the business climate and competitiveness of Mindanao was signed Tuesday between the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) during the 41st Philippine Business Conference (PBC) held here at the Marriott Grand Ballroom.


The PCCI is the country’s largest business organization, while MinDA is a sub-national government agency mandated to promote, coordinate, and facilitate socioeconomic development in Mindanao.

“We commit to work together to encourage investments in Mindanao and enhance further the competitiveness of key sectors in efforts to facilitate a more business-conducive environment in the island-region,” said Secretary Luwalhati R. Antonino, MinDA chairperson.

She added the partnership will also focus on the conduct of policy dialogues on prevailing

concerns affecting Mindanao’s business sector, specifically those that involve PCCI local chambers, industry key stakeholders, and trade associations.

“Our goal is to develop and implement trade and investment promotion activities such as business matching sessions, exchange of information, and market analysis that will support investment generation in Mindanao.

The deal also aims to strengthen the conduct of the Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon), the annual gathering of the biggest business players in the region and enhance further the participation of Mindanao in the BIMP-EAGA.

BIMP-EAGA stands for Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area, an initiative launched in 1994 as a key strategy to accelerate social and economic development of less developed areas in participating countries.

“In formulating the detailed work program for the agreement, a technical working group will be organized and represented by


PCCI and MinDA,” said Antonino.

She added that training and other capacity-building activities will be conducted among the members of the technical working group to strengthen knowledge and expertise in trade promotion and investment generation.

Antonino said the PCCI and MinDA have been closing working for several years now in rallying Mindanao policy recommendations through the MinBizCon. Among these policy recommendations include the modernization of Mindanao’s agri-based industries, strengthening of the region’s logistics, power sector, infrastructure, tourism, and natural resource management.

In a news statement, PCCI President Alfredo M. Yao said the 41st Philippine Business Conference focuses building strategies between the government and the business sector to intensify strategic synergies and alliances that would build and strengthen competitiveness in an integrated global marketplace.

“The PCCI recognizes the tremendous potentials of

Mindanao particularly its role in the development of the local economy, export growth, jobs creation, and overall international competitiveness of the country,” he added.

Yao said Mindanao’s strength in agriculture and agribusiness and its burgeoning business process outsourcing are among those that will attract investments in the region, along with the emerging industries such as construction, infrastructure, creative industries, and research and development.

He added that this year’s business gathering, which focused on the theme “One. Global. Filipino: Synergies in Partnership for Global Competitiveness.” highlighted the success stories and global and regional trends on business competitiveness, including strategies for business and economic growth, developing a world-class infrastructure and advancing international trade partnerships.

The PBC is the annual gathering and dialogue of policymakers in the Executive and Legislative branches of government and of decision makers in Philippine business.


50 ‘hot’ cars under HPG-9 care - officialBy Felipo David G. Malcampo

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – About 50 vehicles believed to be hot cars have been impounded by the Highway Patrol Group – 9 (HPG-9) here.


Supt. Alejandro Espiritu III, a senior official of HPG-9 shared in Dateline Teleradyo that since 2013, a total of 50 cars are under their custody, and many of them are considered “high end.” “Majority of them come from Manila and the nearby regions,” Espiritu said, adding that the apprehended cars are outcome of the HPG’s thrust against carnapping. Espiritu warns people interested to buy used or surplus cars to be very discriminate, and research the car before buying. “You should check the documents, make sure that they are not fake,” he said, saying that it is very easy to fake documents these days. Espiritu also advised buyers of

surplus cars to check the keys, and see if they are original. Car buyers must see to it that the vehicle they will buy are not hot cars by seeking their office for help in verifying. He also advised vehicle owners to always ensure that they are bringing an authenticated photocopy of the official receipt and certificate of registration in the car, but always keep the original copies in a secure place. HPG-9 is conducting random patrols in key strategic areas in the city to monitor the streets for hot cars. “We will stay as the guardians of the highways,” said Espiritu.

Netizens slam city dads’ P5-M travel expenses By Dominic I. Sanchez


In a one-page report, City Secretary Zenaida Jaime bared that the councilors undertook 371 official travels out of town since 2013, which incurred P5,673,132.06. Out of the 19 councilors, the top five with the most expenses are Roel Natividad with 35 travels amounting to P624,723.26; Myra Paz Abubakar with 44 travels amounting to P586,354.26; and Percival Ramos with 26 travels amounting to P561,164.40. The top three councilors with the least travels include Miguel Alavar III, Rodolfo Bayot and Melchor Rey Sadain. The report, posted by journalist Albert Luna on Facebook, was shared by netizens, and eventually received much criticism. ED G Covs posted: “Si nesesita gasta para bien del ciudad bueno. Si para de personal lang manda imbestiga acabar si culpable planta caso y manda paga el cosa ya gasta para nuway quien copia.” (When we need to spend for the betterment of the city, good. However, if the expenses are for personal use, it should be investigated, and when found to be guilty, a case should be filed and the expenses should be reimbursed so that no others will attempt the same.)

Muhammadnur Muhammad added: “The logical interpretation is if your are more expensive in terms of travel or any other government activity, it only means you have more accomplishments. THAT IS WHY WE IN GOVERNMENT ARE REQUIRED TO JUSTIFY OUR EXPENSES AND PASS GOVERNMENT AUDIT.” Meanwhile, Monch Follosco of the office of Councilor Roel Natividad shared that all the travels are accounted for. “He is chairman of several committees, such as that of the peace and order, youth and sports,” Follosco explained. “Because of this, Councilor Natividad is constantly being invited to out-of-town activities as part of his duties.” “The councilor frequents Davao and other cities to learn from their best practices in order to replicate it here, in our city,” Follosco added. Natividad is vice-chairman of the anti-drugs committee. Another netizen, Junex Dela Cruz shared his opinion: “Pagkatapos ng travel nila… Anong ginawa nila for ZAMBO people? (After their travels, what have they done for ZAMBO People?)” And a certain Andre Anselmo Cavalera also replied: “Yan ang mga tanong (those are the questions).”

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – About 50 vehicles believed to be hot cars have been impounded by the Highway Patrol Group – 9 (HPG-9) here.


DA to launch RICEponsible campaign

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is set to launch next month its newest campaign “RICEponsible” in bid to promote responsible rice consumption among Filipinos for better health,

less wastage, and productive farming.

“Be RICEponsible in your Own Way Now (BROWN) 4 Good” is this year’s theme for the celebration of the National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM) celebrated every November pursuant to Proclamation No. 524 issued on January 5, 2004. In line with this celebration, DA regional field office 10 will be conducting a series of RICEponsible forum that will take off on November

5, 2015, in the province of Camiguin, which will be followed by other provinces of the region. The series of fora will talk about government’s intervention on the RICEponsible campaign, as well as encourage the public to eat equally healthy rice substitutes such as sweet potato, banana, white corn, cassava, and taro root crops, and to minimize wastage. An interaction intended

for the media practitioners is also set to heighten more awareness and widen adoption of the campaign from the public, especially the consumers, producers and policy makers. The month-long activity will culminate with a simultaneous nationwide Run for Rice on November 28, at 5:30 a.m. to start and finish


Iligan city career counselors group to guide students for employment ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte - The Iligan City- Lanao del Norte Career Counselors Association (IC- LDN CCA), through the Department of Labor and Employment, Regional Office No. X (DOLE-X) – Lanao del Norte Provincial Field Office (LDN PFO) held its 3rd Quarter meeting cum learning session to plan out advocacy strategies in guiding students in their career path.

Held on 16 October 2015 at the Conference Room, St. Michaels College, Quezon Avenue, Iligan City, DOLE-X LDN PFO Provincial Head Remegio D. Cabañog said, “Career Coaching is one of the employment programs of DOLE in preventing career mismatch later in the lives of the students, thereby eliminating employment issues.” Cabañog also stressed the importance of the group in addressing concerns on the full implementation of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) K to 12 Program, as well as drug abuse prevention. Meanwhile, its newly elected president, Joan B. Cañeda, Ph. D., RPM, RGC of Iligan City National High

School, discussed with her members their plans of activities until 2017, as well as the updates from the 3rd Northern Mindanao Career Advocacy Congress on 17-18 September 2015 in Pryce Plaza, Cagayan de Oro City. The IC- LDN CCA is a group of Guidance Counselors from various schools that was organized by the DOLE- X LDN PFO for promoting Career Advocacy to their respective students. It was attended by some 22 participants coming from the IC-LDN CCA, private and public educational institutions, TESDA, and the Public Employment Services Offices (PESO). (Joseph Nathan Fabrega/DOLE-X LDN PFO)

at the capitol grounds, this City, and to be participated in by government employees. It is hoped to inspire the

public to live a healthy lifestyle while contributing in the attainment of rice self sufficiency. (SVA-DA 10/JCV-PIA)


YNHS, Mahinog top Lanzones Festival’s dancing competitions MAMBAJAO, Camiguin - Camiguin pops the Lanzones Festival observance to new levels year after year, bringing out livelier and more colorful performances to entertain locals and tourists alike.

Performers for the biggest events like the traditional dancing competitions at various categories gear up with new surprises in beats, steps, costumes or props. The competition is pretty tight for all the groups--supported by the different local and national offices, establishments, private groups and sponsors. This year, Mahinog LGU took the No. 1 spot for the street dancing competition, followed by Yumbing National High School (YNHS) and Mambajao National High School (MNHS). YNHS, meanwhile, grab the first win in the tableau/ground competition,

Mambajao National High School (MNHS) move into the second spot, and Fatima C ollege of Camiguin (FCC) on 3rd. Other interesting events include the Music and Kabog (Bats) showdown, Kalanrakas sa Kabataan (Charivari-Street Dancing), Festival King, Queen, and Diwata (fairies) showdown. All these seek to promote not only tourism, but also cooperation among the locals here, while they continue to hold the rich tradition of thanksgiving for the sweet bounty of the luscious lanzones fruit, named to be the sweetest around the country. (JCV/PIA 10)


ARMM to create law enforcement task force

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will establish a task force to intensify law enforcement in the region, especially here in the province.

The decision was made following the killing of Marawi City’s Police Chief Superintendent Abner Wahab Santos on October 17. Members of the ARMM’s Regional Peace and Order Council and Lanao

del Sur’s Provincial Peace and Order Council convened in a joint emergency security meeting on October 19, at the Provincial Capitol to discuss possible actions that would be taken in response to the incident.


Santos was killed at 2:00 p.m. on October 17 while driving his vehicle at Crossing Sarimanok, Brgy. Luksa Datu in Marawi City. The victim suffered multiple gunshots on the head and was dead on the spot. The suspects are still unidentified. ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman has condemned the killing saying the police officer’s execution was a “heinous and cowardly act that demonstrates brutality and an utter lack of regard for the value of human life.” Hataman and Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong, Jr. presided over the meeting and agreed to create the joint task force comprising of the regional and provincial governments, the military, the police, and civil society organizations. Officials who attended the meeting agreed on drafting a resolution defining the structure and tasks of the members of the task force that would address peace and order problems in the region.

It was concluded that the killing of the police chief was due to his active involvement against drug s y n d i c a t e s operating in the city and in nearby towns. Lanao del Sur is a component province of ARMM, with four other provinces namely M a g u i n d a n a o , Basilan, Sulu and

Tawi-Tawi. “Hindi ito ang panahon para magsisihan (This is not the time for us to blame one another). These are all our responsibility, these are all our accountability,” Hataman said. Haroun Al-Rashid Lucman, ARMM vice-governor; Col. Roseller Murillo, 103rd brigade commander; and Police Chief Supt. Ronald Estilles, ARMM’s regional police director, also attended the meeting. Hataman also urged the active participation of the general public to secure peace in their respective communities. “The success of the government’s mandate on peace and security depends on the participation of the community,” he said. The councils will also create a ‘Special Investigating Task Group Abner’ that will further investigate the killing. (BPI/APB/PIA-10)


Lanao communicators toured NGCP facilitiesMARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - Government communicators from the two Lanao provinces had the chance to tour the facilities of the Abaga-Baloi Substation and the Mindanao Regional Control Center (MRCC) of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP).

The tour was conducted by NGCP last week to foster better understanding on power transmission operations. At the Abaga-Baloi Substation, the government information officers were greeted with briefings on security protocol to ensure a smooth flow of the tour. They were also informed on the importance of the high voltage power lines emanating from the Baloi substation. Although they weren’t allowed

to enter the control area of the MRCC due to its sensitivity, the information officers had the chance to view how NGCP monitor the supply and demand of electricity in the entire Mindanao. Eugene H. Bicar, head for Mindanao System Operations, also briefed them about the creation of the state-of-the-art MRCC and its importance in ensuring the stability and reliability of Mindanao power grid. “It’s amazing how they work here


24/7! I am thankful for this rare and worth-while exposure,” said Rufaida Polao, municipal information officer of Ganassi. After the facility tour, a forum was held at an establishment in Cagayan de Oro City to equip them with knowledge about NGCP operations and on issues that affect the Mindanao power grid. Topics discussed include the priority projects of NGCP in Mindanao, transmission line safety and anti-pilferage, Right-of-Way (ROW) issues, and concerns on the security of power facilities due to bombing incidents. Municipal Information Officers from Lanao del Sur expressed support to

NGCP’s campaign to deliver continuous and reliable power to consumers. Hussain Diamla. municipal information of Taraka, said he will convey his learning to the town’s officials so that they can create a resolution prohibiting the planting of trees under or near the transmission lines. (APB/JNY/PIA-10)


NGCP taps Lanao info officers on transmission line safety driveMARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has reached out to the information officers of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur provinces to spread the message on taking good care of transmission lines.

Beth Ladaga, regional corporate communications and public affairs officer of NGCP in Mindanao, said they are intensifying the information drive on transmission line safety to ensure public safety and continuous delivery of safe and reliable power to consumers. Ladaga, during the Power Forum with the Municipal Information Officers (MIOs) and Information Officers of National Government

Agencies (NGAs) of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur Provinces held October 21, 2015 in Cagayan de Oro City, enumerated the safety tips to avoid accidents and power outages. These include the prohibition of building grass fires and planting of trees under transmission lines; carrying long sticks or objects that might reach the transmission lines; installing of antennas, parking of vehicles and building of houses or any


structure near or under transmission lines; and flying of kites near transmission lines. Ladaga said these activities might cause unplanned power interruptions. “It is necessary that the public is aware of these safety guidelines to prevent accidents and power interruptions,” she added. (APB/JNY/PIA-10)


DavNor Guv reminds impt. role of media on 2016 polls

Governor del Rosario em-phasized that the integrity of the media practitioners will be tested on this coming elections. “So, I ask you to adhere to professional standards of im-partiality, accuracy and respon-sibility to draw out the plans of the candidates on critical issues without bias,” Del Rosario said. “It is your duty to report ac-curately and thoroughly what the candidates and parties stand on important public policy issues so that the Dabaonons can decide on themselves on whom to vote,” he added. Del Rosario also stressed that it is the responsibility of the media to present objective and balance coverage of the election as it is important in shaping the destiny of our province and of

our country. He asked the media not to involve controversies especially personal in nature with their re-porting. “Please do away with such kind of reporting that primarily focuses on controversies faced by the candidates, especially those personal in nature hat has noth-ing to do with their advocacies and platforms of governance.” (PIA11, Michael Uy)

TAGUM CITY - During the celebration of the Press Freedom Month yes-terday at the Bulwagan ng Lalawigan, Governor Rodolfo del Rosario re-minded the media practitioners on their vital role during the May 2016 elections.


Carmen coop gets banana powder facilitiesCARMEN, Davao del Norte, October 27 (PIA) - A Cavendish banana pro-ducing company in Carmen received earlier today banana powder pro-cessing equipment from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

As part of the DTI’s Shared Service Facility program, Dia-mond Farm Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multipurpose Co-operative (DARBMUPCO) gained P1.87-million worth of process-ing equipment. The facilities include banana chipper, mechanical dryer elevat-ed solar drier with net cover and hammer mill with sifter. DTI Davao del Norte Provin-cial Director Romeo Castanaga emphasized that the equipment will be used to improve the lives of members and its community by using Cavendish bananas. “I cannot call the bananas as rejects because they can still be eaten; they are just bananas who did not just meet the mar-ket standards,” Castanaga said. For more than two years, the cooperative are selling their ‘re-ject’ bananas to contractors that produces dried banana chips, which are then sold to compa-nies that will process it to pow-der or pellets for industrial use or

feeds. DARBMUPCO Manager Juan Pelenio said that the bananas that came from the cooperative’s 759-hectare plantation. Pelenio bared that the new facilities will be operationalized by the end of this year. He said that they will still undergo capability trainings with the DTI for the said equipment. (PIA11, Michael Uy)


DTI AgNor resolves 60 consumer complaintsBy: DTI-Agusan del Norte

BUTUAN CITY -- As the nation celebrates the Consumer Welfare Month this October, the Department of Trade and lndustry (DTI) Agusan del Norte Provincial Office once again encourages consumers to exercise their right to redress in case of any defective product or service or any misrepresentation encountered in buying their needs in the market. For this, DTI highlights its continuing efforts to protect consumers through the resolution of complaints filed with the Department.


For the period January to September 2015, a total of 60 consumer complaints were re-solved through mediation and facilitation of store Ievel resolu-tion. Most of the complaints in-volve defective products, viola-tion of warranty, deceptive sales acts, and imperfect service of re-pair shops, among others. On the other hand, com-plaints not falling within the ju-risdiction of DTI are properly re-ferred to the right agency such as the National Telecommuni-cations Commission (NTC) for complaints involving telecom-munication companies, the LTO for those involving motor vehicle registration, the Department of

Energy for those involving pe-troleum products and electric-ity, and to the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) for complaints filed by air passengers. The other agencies that are implementing the Consumer Act include the DOH-Food and Drug Administration for food, drugs, cosmetics and devices; the De-partment of Agriculture for agri-cultural products; and LGU Trea-surer’s Office for weights and measures. lt is also noted that the DTI Agusan del Norte Provincial Of-fice was able to resolve 90 con-sumer complaints for the year 2014.

SurSur DepEd finds new venue for 2015 Provincial Athletic Meet TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, – Despite the odds of having to hold the 2015 Provincial Athletic Meet in an unexpected and undersized venue in Hinatuan town, the Department of Education (DepEd) Surigao del Sur Division Office has “no choice” but to push through with the sports competition.

By: Greg Tataro, Jr.

Surigao del Sur Sports Cen-ter, the usual venue for the an-nual DepEd sports event, could have been the most convenient place, but since September 1, it has been home to some 3,000 evacuees who were forced by cir-

cumstances to flee their homes due to the murder of three of their kins. Nobody knows when could the evacuees get back home pending acceptable solution to their demands, primarily the cap-


ture of three fellow lumads who were behind the killings. According to Dr. Marilou De-dumo, schools division superin-tendent of DepEd, this province, adjustments had to be made in order to make everything work at a playing field with a subnor-mal standard for a province-wide sports event. She pointed out that instead of a full 17-delegation match; they had to somehow narrow it down to three by practically clus-tering the school districts of the northern, central, and southern municipalities of the province. The DepEd provincial chief indicated that all municipalities of Congressional District II be-long to Unit I Athletic Delegation,

namely: Barobo, Hinatuan, Tag-bina, and Lingig; Unit II Athletic Delegation is comprised of Cor-tes, Tago, San Miguel, Bayabas, Cagwait, Marihatag, San Agus-tin, and Lianga; while Unit III Athletic Delegation is composed of Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, and Lanuza. With the theme “SPORTS: Paving Towards a Globally Com-petitive Youth,” athletes had re-mained in high morale, Dedumo optimistically stressed.

The DepEd division chief likewise added that they were al-ready done with the sports elimi-nation at the school, district, and unit levels.


9th Inter-Agency/LGU Statistics Quiz high-lights 26th Natl Statistics Month closing ceremony

BUTUAN CITY-- A total of 16 agencies, local government units, state universities and colleges in Caraga will join this year’s 9th Inter – Agency/LGU Statistics Quiz on October 30, 2015 at the BSP Multipurpose Hall here.

By: PSA-Caraga

This event is organized by the following agencies: National Economic and Development Au-thority – Caraga Region, Philip-pine Statistics Authority Regional Statistical Services Office No. 13,

Department of Health – Caraga Region and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas - Butuan Branch. The participants are from: Cooperative Development Au-thority, Department of the In-


terior and Local Government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Tech-nical Education Skills Develop-ment Authority, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Caraga State University - Main Campus, Department of Agriculture, Bu-reau of Internal Revenue, De-partment of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Transportation and Communica-tion, Commission on Population, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Sci-ence and Technology, Provincial Planning and Development Office of Agusan del Norte, Philippine National Police Regional Office - Camp Rafael and Department

of Education. Each team is com-posed of three members. This activity is part of the closing ceremony of the 26th National Statistics Month (NSM) celebration spearheaded by the Regional Statistics Committee of Caraga. The questions will focus on health statistics. The celebra-tion highlights the government’s thrust on universal health care and the recognition of the vari-ous endeavours of official stat-isticians and technical person-nel involved in the generation of health and nutrition statistics. This year’s NSM carries the theme, “Pagyamanin at Gamitin ang Estadistika, Kalusugan para sa Lahat ay Abot-Kamay Na.”

one mindanao - october 28, 2015

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