JIMENEZ, TECHNICAL STAFF: CHARLESTON L. ARCALES, …

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: FE F. MAESTRE, WRITERS: REY M. ANTIBO, GILBERT M. CABAHUG, PHOTOGRAPHERS: ALBERT A. DAYAO, MARIEL LASACA, VIDEOGRAPHERS: REYNALDO S. RENOBLAS, BRYAN JIMENEZ, TECHNICAL STAFF: CHARLESTON L. ARCALES, JOEFFREY L. MAMAYABAY, GLENN GETUBIG, GRAPHIC ARTIST: MARC KERVY B. LIM, ADMINISTRATIVE: NORA M. SENORIO, HONEYLYN T. SAYSON, HENRICO O. PORTES. AKSYON COMVAL! Magazine is published quarterly by the Office of the Governor, Provincial Government of Compostela Valley. Articles and photos for publication may be sent to the Editor, AKSYON COMVAL Magazine, Information Dissemination Section, Office of the Governor at 3rd Flr., Provincial capitol, Cabidianan, Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province or by email to [email protected] . Articles, photos and other materials in this publication may be reproduced in any media with permission and proper attribution.

VISION“Compostela Valley is a

God-loving, economically vibrant, safe and

ecologically balanced province with empowered

people.”

Governor HON. JAYVEE TYRON L. UY

Vice-Governor HON. MANUEL E. ZAMORA

Members of the House of Representative

District 1 - Congressman HON. MARIA CARMEN S. ZAMORA

District 2 - Congressman HON. RUWEL PETER S. GONZAGA

1st District Board Members HON. JOANNA AILEEN A. GENTUGAYA HON. MARIE JUDE M. FUENTES-LOPOZ HON. NENA G. ATAMOSA HON. JOSEPH T. JAUOD HON. RENATO B. BASAñES

2nd District Board Members HON. ARTURO T. UY HON. KRISTINE MAE T. CABALLERO-rañon HON. RAUL B. CABALLERO HON. MACARIO T. HUMOL HON. VIVENCIA L. SECUYA

Ex-Officio Members: Indigenous People Mandatory Representative - Datu Felipe B. MasaMBo Provincial Councilors League - Mr. Christopher l. Jovita Association of Barangay Captains - Mr. ranDy r. opisan

MISSION“Provide open, transparent, and accessible government and to deliver basic services

so everyone can enjoy a better quality of life.”

ONE COMVAL, ONE VISIONAPRIL-JUNE2

Comval Gov. Tyron Uy said during the launching and commitment of support for “Oplan Liwanag” program last April 4, 2017 at the Social Hall, Provincial Capitol. The launching was also graced by Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) Secretary Benjamin P. Reyes who commended the province on its initiative.

The “Oplan Liwanag: Community-based Transformative Intervention Program for Voluntary Surrenderers for Reform (VSRs)” is a 2-month

program which aims to rehabilitate and reform the VSRs. Activities include lectures and workshops on spirituality, psychosocial, health awareness, marriage and family enrichment, life skills and livelihood training skills.

With this, the governor vows to pursue relentlessly the program and its successful implementation. Under the “Aksyon Comval” mantra, the provincial government immediately responded to President Rodrigo Duterte’s call on the fight against illegal drugs.

“I have always believed that the Philippines has called us to serve and that the government is here to work for the people,” he added.

Comval applied a two-pronged approach with the efforts of the Police Force, in cooperation with the Philippine Army, and the support of the Provincial

Anti-Drug Abuse Council down to the

municipalities (MADAC) and barangays (BADAC). With this, the PADAC lead the implementation of the Oplan Liwanag with the active participation of other key stakeholders.

After the initial success of the pilot barangays, the first of which is in Banlag, Monkayo, kick-off ceremonies were held from among the different municipalities.

“With the support of the MLGUs and BLGUs, some were employed and are now starting a new life. Indeed, we can be an instrument who could give these kind of people, a new beginning,” Gov. Uy said.

The governor also expressed his gratitude to all local and national agencies, and other stakeholders who supported the program but admitted that there’s more to be done. “We are really in need of help in terms of food and medicine provision, opportunities and trainings for our VSRs and logistical support as this would never be an easy 2-month program.”

“It’s our call to provide a future for our people, we don’t have time to procrastinate, the time to win the war against illegal drugs is now!, Gov. Uy ended. (Fe F. Maestre)

Gov. Uy: “converGence efforts of all sectors crUcial”

We strongly desire transformation in Comval…

we want as much as possible to craft proactive programs that will address pressing societal issues especially the one connected with

crime and illegal drugs,

ONE COMVAL, ONE VISIONAPRIL-JUNE 3

A GLIMMER OF LIGHT FOR DRUG ADDICTSBy Henrylito D. Tacio (published, Edge Davao)

At the height of the election campaign two years ago, then Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte warned that if the disorder brought by illegal drugs will not end, the Philippines will become a narco state.

In a press statement, Duterte said the country is showing alarming signs of becoming a narco state. “In the national capital region where the country’s capital is situated, the government admitted that 92% of barangays are already infiltrated by illegal drugs,” he said.

According to Duterte, international drug syndicates have already penetrated the country. He cited the Sinaloa drug cartel as a case in point; it is “a Mexican-based group considered the largest and most powerful drug trafficking organization in the west.”

“This is a clear national security threat,” he declared. “This is an invasion of a new kind. Drug lords, domestic and foreign, have declared a war against our families and children, and the government is helpless about it.”

“Drug abuse has ruined many lives,” declares Dr. Willie T. Ong, an internist-cardiologist and consultant at the Manila Doctor’s Hospital and Makati Medical Center. “The threat of illegal drugs is real and it’s closer than we think. In the Philippines, the drug abuse situation has actually increased over the years.”

Alan Peter Cayetano, then a senator, thought so, too. In his opening statement before the members of the United Nations Human Rights Center (UNHRC), he said: “Illegal drugs can easily destroy a whole generation.”

Senator Risa Hontiveros, a staunch critic of the president, said that drug addiction is not simply a law and order concern. “It is a public health and justice issue,” she was quoted as saying by media.

This is the reason why she filed Senate Bill 1313, the Barangay Health and Rehabilitation Strategy, which “seeks to create health intervention and rehabilitation programs and centers for drug dependents to respond to the assessed needs of drug dependents.”

In Compostela Valley, Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy launched the Oplan Liwanag, a

community-based transformative intervention for voluntary surrenderers for reform (VSR). Only those categorized as “mild” to “moderate” surrenders are endorsed to the program. “We refer those who are considered severe cases to rehabilitation center for further assessment and proper intervention,” he explained.

Gov. Uy hopes to achieve progress of the efforts of all sectors and pro-active sectors and pro-active approaches of local government units and the anti-drug abuse councils. “As we support the platform of President Duterte’s administration, we prepare ourselves for this difficult but noble task of securing the future of our constituents; we will continuously assert that the unity is the way to go,” he pointed out.

Compostela Valley – which will be known as Davao de Oro in the years to come – covers a total area of 4,479.77 square kilometers occupying the northeastern section of the Davao Region. As of 2015, it has a total population of 736,107 and ranked the 40th out of 81 provinces in terms of population. The density population is 160 people per square kilometer.

Generally, the illegal drug situation in the country is jointly analyzed and established by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). “In Compostela Valley, the drug problem is not merely a security or health issue, but also encompasses social, psychological and economic interests, requiring the unified involvement of government agencies and civil society,” said the accomplishment report of Oplan Liwanag program which this author obtained.

As of July 7, 2017, the number of surrenderers totaled 15,706. About 902 were identified as reformed voluntary surrenderers (RVS). Some 1,226 were enrolled in the Oplan Liwanag. The oldest participant was 52 years old while the youngest was 21 years old.

“Our family was shattered when I started doing illegal drugs,” said one of those who graduated from the program. “I thought it was good in the beginning but I was completely wrong. I don’t think I would to return to what I had done before. In those days, we didn’t have

peace in our family. My wife and I quarreled always.

”Oplan Liwanag, which was piloted at barangay Banlag in the Municipality of Monkayo on December 5, 2017 and culminated on February 7, 2017, is actually a 2-month program which aims to rehabilitate and reform the mild to moderate drug addicts through lectures and workshops on spirituality, psychosocial, health awareness, marriage and family enrichment and livelihood training skills.

The spiritual enrichment is done on the first week since the first integration of the program is to reintegrate the VSR to his/her relationship with God. “It is to set the mind and hearts of the VSR and lead them to healing and reconciliation,” the report said.

The rest of the three weeks are focused on psycho-social, health awareness and marital and family enrichment. Another month is allotted for skills and livelihood training, which is conducted by the province office of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Also included in the program is their heart of volunteerism. They VSR are trained for standard first aid and basic responder’s training conducted by the volunteers of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management.

Oplan Liwanag was formally presented to the chief executive of the local government units during the meeting of provincial chapter of the League of the Municipalities of the Philippines. The mayors then were hesitant at first because of the budgetary requirements that the program e

“At first, the mayors were hesitant because of the budgetary requirements of the program,” Gov. Uy recalled. “However, after I gave them the background on how the program was to be initiated and how it will address the present situation of drug problem in the province, they showed their support by activating their Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council.”

In addition, Gov. Uy directed the Provincial Action Team to make initiatives in presenting the program to the Liga Ng Mga Barangay as the barangay officials are the direct implementers of the program.


Massive information dissemination was conducted in each municipality for better understanding of the program. Aside from the Oplan Liwanag program, each local government units of the province are urged to strengthen their municipal police office’s operation in PNP’s Project Double Barrel to control the existing drug problem of their localities.

The program is now on its third roll out. The Provincial Action Team is also finalizing the after-care monitoring of the RVS who graduated from the program. “We have been doing some coordination meetings with the national government agencies as to how they can contribute to the interventions under the

program,” Gov. Uy says.The youthful governor, however, believes

compassion is the one of the best acceptable ways to get engaged in the drug problem of the country. “The Oplan Liwanag Program considers those who got into drug addiction as victims,” he said. “They may have committed wrong choices in the past. They may have caused inconvenience to other people, in one way or the other but this is not a sufficient reason to leave them. We can only win the war against illegal drugs by an initiative that enhances their human dignity. The ultimate goal is to turn drug dependents from victims to victors. Only then we can say, we truly succeeded.” – ###

In the first district, the following municipalities have already kicked off with the program: Barangay Mapawa, Maragusan; San Jose, Montevista; Cabinuangan, New Bataan; Brgys. Banlag and Poblacion, Monkayo; and Poblacion, Compostela. For the 2nd District: Brgys. Tibagon and Bongabong, Pantukan; Mipangi and Manat, Nabunturan; Tagnanan, Pindasan and San Antonio of Mabini; Cabinuangan, Maco; Poblacion, Laak; and Poblacion, Mawab. “Salamat sa mga ahensya nga natagamtaman namu ang sopurta sa programa nga kami matabangan sa gobyerno nga libre aron sa pag-usab sa among kaugalingon, pagbalik ug paglig-on sa spiritual and moral recovery, sa pagbutang kanamu sa mahinugdanong kahibalo sa paglaban batok sa ginadili nga bisyo ug sa pag-develop sa among physical aspect. Habang may buhay may pag-asa,” said one of the RVS. (RMA)

Barangay kick-off

Oplan’s implementationVSR is the official term of the beneficiaries. Those

VSR categorized as Mild to Moderate are endorse to Oplan Liwanag Program to undergo the community-based rehabilitation while those identified as severe VSR are referred to rehabilitation center for further assessment and proper intervention. The program itself has several phases:

PREPARATIONScreening & ProfilingOrientation with PAO

Kick off Ceremony

FIRST MONTHWeek 1 - Encounter with God

Week 2 - PsychosocialWeek 3 - Health AwarenessWeek 4 - Marriage & Family

Enrichment

SECOND MONTHWeek 5 - Life Skills

Week 6-8 - Livelihood Training (13 days)

Week 8 - Responders Training

CULMINATIONOplan Liwanag Culmination

Ceremony

VSROPLAN LIWANAGImplementation

Framework

HENRYLITO D. TACIO is a Davao-based Science journalist who received 30 journalism awards including 1998 Hall of Fame in science reporting from Philippine Press Institute and 1999 Journalist of the Year from Rotary Club of Manila. As a journalist, he has attended international conferences in the US, Canada, Australia, South Africa and almost all Asian countries. He writes for various publications, here and abroad, and has served as editorial consultant for UN publications.»

Featured Writer:


For the first time since the “Serbisyo Caravan AksyonAgad” (SCAA) team was created, the public service outreach caravan was held in various geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAS) in Pantukan from May 3-5, 2017.

The outreach program, jointly spearheaded by the provincial government and LGU Pantukan, has served about 3,000 beneficiaries. Initial record only shows the number of beneficiaries served by the provincial government of Comval while others more were also served by LGU Pantukan.

On the first day, around 1,100 individuals availed of medical and dental services as well as free medicines and

multi-vitamins which was held at Boringot High School in Barangay Napnapan. The beneficiaries came from nearby sitios of Pulang Lupa, Boringot, Puting Sayaw, Tanguili, Diat, Lantawan, Piasusoan, and Manggapispis.

The following days, the team proceeded to Sitio Panganason in Brgy. Kingking with 919 individuals and another 515 beneficiaries served in Sitio Biasong in Brgy. Napnapan.

The SCAA team was created through Executive Order No. 008-2017 on February 14, 2017 with the governor as the team leader and Provincial Administrator VirgiliaAllones as the assistant. Pantukan is the first leg of the series of Serbisyo

Caravan to be conducted in the 11 municipalities targeting the remote and depressed areas in the province. Pantukan Mayor Roberto Yugo is the provincial president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP).

The localized SCAA takes inspiration on the Serbisyo Caravan, a signature program of the Association of Regional Executives of National Agencies (ARENA) in Region XI. This is composed of the various national agencies in the region and headed by Reg. Dir. Maria Lourdes D. Lim of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA XI). (femaestre)

Comval holds localized SERbISyO CARAVAN in Pantukan


A highly attended consultative meeting among Muslim community leaders in Compostela Valley was held to strengthen relationship and unity as well as to discuss peace and order in the province on May 25, 2017 at Big 8 Hotel, Tagum City. The consultative meeting which was already planned out months ago by the provincial government was coincidental and timely especially with the Marawi incident. “This is our effort to reach out to the Muslim population of Compostela Valley. Although we have consultations in the past but this is the first time that all organizations of our Muslim leaders gathered as one,” Gov Tyron Uy said. “It is necessary that we hear their opinions and sentiments. This is to ensure that our decision-making processes are Muslim-friendly, participatory, equitable and representative to the interest of the Muslim people,” he added. The governor also assured them in relation to President Rodrigo Duterte’s Martial Law declaration that as long as “we are law-abiding citizens, we have nothing to worry.” The governor earlier issued a statement of support to the President’s declaration while expressing his sympathies to the people of Marawi and calling all citizens for vigilance.Former governor and now Senior Board Member Arturo Uy applauded the move of the governor to organize the Muslim population as he also shared his special affinity with the community.

Commitment of supportSamira Gutoc, a commissioner of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission served as the Guest Speaker of the event. Gutoc, like the governor, is a youth leader, a women’s rights activist and advocate of Bangsamoro rights.In her message, she emphasized the need to end violence in the Bangsamoro region. She also delved into debunking some of the misconceptions about the Bangsamoro people.“Matagal na ang gulo sa Mindanao. And part of it is the fact the government failed to address their concerns. But the Muslim people aren’t violent. We are pushed and disadvantaged by the circumstances,” Gutoc said.Meanwhile, PNP Regional Director Manuel Gaerlan and AFP’s Major Gen. Rafael C. Valencia, Commanding Officer of the 10th ID also attended the event.RD Gaerlan highlighted the necessity for a tightened relationship between communities and the police. He talked about being disciplined and abiding the law, which according to him are essential elements to secure peace and order.Valencia, on the other hand, recounted his memories of the clashes in the Bangsamoro region, citing that innocents are the greatest casualties of the ensuing war and violence in the region. They both agreed that it is now high time to end the clashes in the South and give everyone, especially women and children, a peaceful and secure life.

“We want peace”On their part, the different Muslim leaders also expressed their support saying that they will not allow any atrocities and terroristic acts to happen in their localities and call on for peace and unity.A Muslim leader also shared, in reference to the Maute attack, that the Muslims are peace-loving people. “Kaming mga Muslim ang nais namin ay kapayapaan. Ayaw namin ng gulo, ayaw namin sa ideya at gawain na magpapahamak sa amin. Ang lahat ng masama at marahas ay hindi Islam.”DILG-ComVal Provincial Director Noel Duarte moderated the consultations. PNP Provincial Dir. Marvin Manuel Pepino, SP Committee Chairman on Muslim for Islamic Affairs Randy Opisan, and other local officials and guests were also present signifying their strong partnership and collaboration among the Muslim community and the government agencies. Exceeding the target participants of 250, the various Muslim leaders represented their different organizations like the Kagan Council of Elders; Federation of Datu and Imams; Provincial Council of Muslim Women; Muslim Youth; Madrasah, Ustadzes and Administrators Association; Arabic Language and Islamic Values on Education (ALIVE); Muslim Professionals of Comval; and Sultanate Group. (Fe Maestre, Allin Joy Camille)

Consultative meeting of MUSLIM LEADERS on peace and order Comval held


For the 3rd time, Compostela Valley Province bagged the Outstanding Rice Achiever award during the 2016 Rice Achievers Awards (RAA) held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City on May 23, 2017.

On behalf of Gov. Tyron Uy, Board Members MacarioHumol and Joseph Jauod, Provincial Agriculturist Rolando Simene, and PAGRO personnel received the P4 Million cash grant which will be used for more programs on rice production.

In the same ceremony, the BatinaoCabacunganSto. Nino Irrigators Farmers Association, Inc. in New Bataan, Comval was also hailed as the Outstanding Irrigators’ Association receiving P1 Million cash grant.

“This exemplifies our commitment to help our rice farmers achieve more with quality production. We also recognize every farmer in the province who has been at the forefront of this

achievement in helping secure food for each table not just

within our province but to others as well,” Gov. Uy said.

The award is based on the rice production yield in

the previous year. The province’s average yield in 2016 reached to 4.14 metric tons per hectare (MT/ha) as compared to the rice production of only 3.86 MT/ha in 2015.

Dr. Simene acknowledged the DA’s support through its various interventions in cooperation with the municipalities and other stakeholders. The province’s agriculture programs were also strengthened such as on extending credit assistance to rice farmers, strengthening farmer organizations and cooperatives, conduct of Farmers Field School, techno demo, and adoption of modern agricultural practices and technology.

It can be recalled that Comval was also conferred with the National Rice Achievers Award for its rice production in 2012 and 2014 despite the natural calamities that hit the province.

“Typhoon Pablo hit us in December 2012 but it took only a year of rehabilitation for the rice farmers to get back to their feet while 2015 was hard for us because of the effects of El Nino,” Simene said.

This year, Davao Region dominates the major awards spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture under Sec. Manny Pinol. The annual RAA recognizes the outstanding contributions of the provinces, cities, municipalities, irrigators and small water impounding associations, agriculture extension workers, and local farmer technicians in line with the national food self-sufficiency program. (FFM)

Comval wins anew, Outstanding Rice Achiever Award


The PhP18M Comval Blood Bank and Public Health Laboratory was formally inaugurated on June 9, 2017 at the provincial capitol grounds. In addition, the initial blood bank medical equipment worth a total of P10M from the Department of Health (DOH) was also turned over to the provincial government. Some of the equipment are the blood bank and reagent refrigerators, microscope, tube sealer automatic, hot oven sterilizer while the rest are still due for delivery.

The new building which also serves as the Provincial Health Office (PHO) was made possible through the initiatives of 1st District Rep. Maricar Zamora who extended PhP7M assistance, former governor and now Sr. Board Member Arturo Uy with PhP6M, and from the DOH funding of PhP5M.

Gov. Tyron Uy expressed his gratitude to DOH for its continued support and said that the congresswoman and the former governor have been the forerunner in pushing for the construction of the said building and approval of the blood bank equipment.

“I would like to express my personal admiration, to you--Comvalenyos as a whole, as well as the provincial government and leaders in your achievements in the blood program and also in your contribution in the impact of the lives of a lot of people, not only in Comval but also in others areas in the region,” said Dr. Ivy Nolasco who represented DOH Reg. Dir. Abdullah Dumama Jr.

Comval has been a consistent National Sandugo Awardee having the highest turn-out of blood donations. Last year, Comval received its 8th National Sandugo Award. In 2016, a total of 13,800 of 500 cc (cubic centimeters) bags of blood were collected from among the various bloodletting activities conducted through the Provincial Voluntary Blood Services Program (PVBSP) of PHO.

For her part, Rep. Zamora continues to give more support on the province’s health program. “More are still to come for 2017 budget. We were able to get from DOH PhP19M for the development of building and equipment of Compostela Valley Provincial Hospital (CVPH) in Montevista and PhP10M for CVPH Maragusan. PhP4M for the improvement of RHU Monkayo and PhP21M worth of projects for 10 Barangay Health Stations in District I worth P300,000 of equipment,” she said.

The solon also underscored the importance of public service comparing the structure only as the wrapper and the workforce, themselves, as the gift. “No matter how many millions ang among ihatag sa inyo pero pangit ang serbisyo sa atong mga tao dinhi sa sulod then useless ang atoang gift. I hope dili nato sayangan ang atoang regalo.

We›re just giving you now the wrapper. It›s up for you now to prove to them that we, indeed, have a wonderful gift for Compostela Valley.»

The event was also attended by Vice-Gov. Manuel Zamora, SP Members Renato Basañes and Nena Atamosa, municipal health officers, employees and other

agencies. (FFM)

Turn-over of PROV’L bLOOD bANk and PUbLIC HEALTH LAb, medical equipment held


The local governments of Compostela Valley and the municipality of Monkayo in collaboration with the Gawad Kalinga (GK) led the National Bayani Challenge from June 7-11, 2017 in Pasian, Monkayo.

The ground breaking ceremony of the “New Berjaya GK Village” for the 5-day bayani-challenge was officially opened on June 7. Dubbed “Ipakita ang iyong Tatak Bayani para sa Diyos at sa Bayan,” a total of 14 houses (7 duplex-type) will be built through the GK way for the family-beneficiaries who were affected in the road widening project in the area.

Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy expressed his gratitude and challenged the volunteers from the different sectors of the society to unite in bringing peace, love and unity in helping the poor families to end poverty.

“The spirit of volunteerism is one of the strengths of every Comvalenyo. Thank you to all the volunteers especially our youths for sharing your time and energy to build not just a house but a home for our future beneficiaries,” said Gov. Uy.

Monkayo Mayor Ramil Gentugaya and the rest of the local officials also extended their gratitude especially to the provincial government and the GK for giving the opportunity to build houses especially for those families in need. In all, about 135 families were displaced in the Daang Maharlika road widening project of DPWH in Barangay Pasian. With this, another round of house build through GK way will be set to help the affected families.

Meanwhile, Rene Rieta, GK Mindanao Coordinator who

graced the event thanked the LGUs for its continued commitment as “partners in nation-building.” Recently, Comval LGU through the Uswag-GK team and the governor, himself, joined the national GK build in General Luna, Surigao Del Norte last April 17-22, 2017.

Also gracing the event were Board Members Arturo T. Uy, Joanna Gentugaya, Macario Humol, barangay Officials, Provincial Government (PG) heads and Assistant PG heads led by Provincial Administrator Virgilia S. Allones, youth volunteers, students, Philippine Army and the Phil. National Police.

The Uswag-Gawad Kalinga, which started in 2007, is the provincial g o v e r n m e n t ’ s strategy to provide

decent homes as a poverty alleviation initiative. (Rey Antibo)

“Gk bAyANI CHALLENGE” national build in Monkayo


In a bid to push for Compostela Valley’s economic growth and development, the local government initiated a study mission to the major eco zones in Cebu from May 16-20, 2017.

The “Comval Investment Promotion Team” was participated by Gov. Jayvee Tyron Uy, SP Members Joanna Aileen Gentugaya and VivenciaSecuya, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Provincial Director Lucky SiegfredBalleque, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) PD Noel Duarte, and Comval Tourism Officer and LEIPO Christine Dompor. Mayors from Nabunturan, Maco, Compostela, Mawab, New Bataan and Mabini along with their business permits and licensing officers (BPLOs) and local economic and investments officers (LEIPOs), and other personnel from the local and national

government agencies also joined the team.

“The pursuit for the establishment of Eco Zones in Comval is among the key strategies of the Compostela Valley Investment Board to promote and generate more investments in the province,” said Atty. Balleque.

He added that Comval is the only area in Davao region that has still no economic zone and if established, would give an advantageous position for a province competing for business and investments.

Comval has been pushing for several initiatives with various programs aimed at spurring economic growth in coordination with other agencies and stakeholders. Among them are the establishment of Negosyo Centers in Compostela Valley which have functioned as the investment

arm of the province.Dompor also cited the Banana

Congress held in 2015 and the 1st Compostela Valley Investment Conference in 2016 which featured the ABCs of ComVal (Aquaculture, Banana, Cacao, Coconut and Coffee).

“We also conducted the 1st Business Leaders’ Forum last March 6, 2017 where we gathered 250 top business leaders and motivated them to organize themselves as a body to represent the most important sector in the community,” she said.

Cebu Province is among the major economic zones in the country and is home to world-class export quality products. It has its IT Parks, Mactan Export Processing Zone 1 and II, West Cebu Industrial Parks and the 355 more Eco Zones. (FFM, contr. kim evangelio,dti/ c.dompor, ts)

COMVAL TO CEbU: investment exposures on major economic zones

Students with their parents join the “Compostela Valley Scholarship Program” Batch 2017 Orientation and Signing of Contract on April 6 at the provincial capitol. The CVSP is among the priority programs of the Comval PLGU in support to education. (credits: J. clarion)

NEWS


To commemorate the Earth Day celebration, the province spearheads a mangrove tree planting in coordination with the local government unit of Mabini at Casilac Mangrove site in Barangay Pindasan, Mabini on April 22, 2017.

“As we are celebrating Earth day, we reiterate our drive to protect the environment. We also have to thank and remember this day as a symbol of unity from our leaders and our people,” Gov. Jayvee Tyron Uy said.

The event is highly attended by provincial and municipal officials such as Cong. Maricar Zamora, Mayor Reynaldo Dayanghirang; SP Members Arturo Uy, Joseph Jauod, Raul Caballero, Randy Opisan, Atty. Marie Jude Fuentes-Lopoz, Joanna Gentugaya, VivenciaSecuya, Kristine Mae Caballero-Ranon, and Nena Atamosa.

Also joining in support to the Earth day are the different heads and representatives from the national government agencies such as DENR Provincial Head Chamberlain Babiera, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), Phil. Information Agency, PNP, Philippine Army, among others. Youth volunteers also helped in planting more than 200 mangroves (propagules) along the town’s coastline.

Mabini is the Jewel of Davao Gulf with its mangrove forests, white sand beaches and rich coral reef. In fact, about 6,106 hectares cover the Mabini Protected Landscape and Seascape (MPLS).

“We are proud to have 46 species of corals out of the 72 species found in the country. Added to that, the ‘Humpback grouper’ can also be found in Mabini’s coastal waters,” MENRO Edwin Carmelotes said.

The Humpback Grouper is a medium-sized and naturally rare fish specie and said to be among those listed as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. While the DENR Protected Areas, Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Service Coastal and Marine Management Division Region XI assessed the seascape’s coral reef ecosystem back in 2013. The study reveals that the MPLS still has 53.40 live coral cover or within the overall status of in “good condition”.

Earth Day is an annual worldwide event celebrated on April 22 with various events held to show support for the protection of the environment. (FFM)

Comval observes EARTH DAy, holds MANGROVE TREEPLANTING


Compostela Valley including several towns in the province already launched the information kiosk followed by a multi-sectoral forum on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) XI.

PIA Regional Director Efren Elbanbuena, Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy and other guests led the provincial opening of the kiosk at the Tourism office on May 22 at the provincial capitol.

They were joined by distinguished speakers who discussed the different ASEAN pillars. Asst. Sec. Romeo Montenegro of Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), Asst. Regional Director Wilhelm Suyko of DILG, and Provincial Director Atty. Lucky Seigfred Balleque of DTI.

After the kiosk’s launching, the PIA organized an ASEAN Multi-sectoral Forum, in which more than 150 individuals

from the provincial government, national government agencies, youth, provincial officials, business sector and Municipal Information Officers participated.

“Under the leadership of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte, the foundation of the ASEAN Regional Integration is believed to be stronger as we involve different provinces, municipalities in our pursuit to more boosted economy, sustainable peace and development and strengthened linkages to raise the number of opportunities for the Filipinos,” Gov. Uy said.

The governor also commended the initiative of the PIA saying that “this will be an avenue to promote the importance of communication creating a dialogue and healthy discussions.”

The provincial launching was followed by the same event in Mawab, Pantukan, Nabunturan, Mabini, Laak, Monkayo on June 14, 20, 21, 22, July 3 and 17, respectively. These were highly attended

by their respective municipal mayors and local officials. While the rest of the municipalities will have their kiosk opening anytime within the year.

The information kiosk highlighted information materials on ASEAN as the region celebrates this year’s 50th anniversary and in time for the Philippines’ chairmanship of the regional bloc.

Aside from the ASEAN information materials, the kiosk also featured information materials about the programs and advocacies of the national government agencies.

The forum also deepened the understanding of the participants about ASEAN; its three pillars – Economic Community, Socio-Cultural Community and Political Security Communty; and one of its subregion, the Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA). (contr. PIA11, Michael Uy/FeM)

Comval, towns hold ASEAN Info kiosk and sectoral forum


MUNICIPAL MAyORS

HON. MARICEL COLINA-VENDIOLAHON. EUTROPIO S. JAYECTIN

HON. LEMA P. BOLOHON. GERALDFORD N. BALBINHON. ANTONIO L. LIBUANGAN

HON. RAMIL L. GENTUGAYAHON. CHELITA C. AMATONG

HON. ALVERA VERONICA R. RIMANDO, MDHON. ROBERTO M. YUGO

HON. REYNALDO L. DAYANGHIRANGHON. RUPERTO S. GONZAGA III

bOARD MEMbERS

HON. VIVENCIA L. SECUYAHON. ARTURO T. UY

HON. JOANNA AILEEN A. GENTUGAYAHON. MARIE JUDE M. FUENTES-LOPOZ

HON. RENATO B. BASAÑES

PRIVATE PARTNERS

DR. REYNANTE A. SOLITARIO, CESEDepartment of Education

ROGER S. LUMBINNational Commission on Indigenous Peoples

MILWIDA M. GUEVARASynergeia Foundation

GIL A. MARVILLAApex Mining Company Inc.

RENATO M. BENDIGOMindanao Agri Banana Ventures Corporation

PAUL EDMUND S. CUYEGKENGSUMIFRU Phils Corporation (SUMIFRU)

NOE B. TAOJOKing Eagle Exploration and Mining Corporation

MICHAEL G. REGINOSan Augustin Services, Inc.

MEGGY M. SANTOSSan Miguel Brewery Inc.

ATTY. MARIANNE ESTHER G. ANICETO-GUINOMLAStanfilco, A Division of Dole Phil., Inc.

ARNEL JUSIAgusan Petroleum and Mineral Corp.

CHAD P. REGISPenong’s Franchise Corporation

PAUL G. DOMINGUEZAlsons Consolidated Resources and Mining Corporation

WILFREDO D. KENGCentury Peak Metals Holdings Corp.

DENNIS A. UYPhoenix Fuels, Inc.

ENGR. AEROL B. CONDEBIMBIM Piggery Farms

REYNALDO C. CELINOTagum Agricultural Development Company, Inc.

MARIE MADELINE DIZONDizon Group of Companies

IBRAHIM HAMDY ABDEL HAMMID NAWWARMUSAHAMAT Farms, Inc.

BENEDICTO ONGKINGDavao delNorte Electric Cooperative

XAVIER ARUL KENNEDYHolcim Philippines Inc.

CHRISTINE L. WUTHRICHLBC Foundation

PETRONILO V. CANCINOKingking Mining Corporation

The provincial government of Compostela Valley through the Bayanihan Para Sa Karunungan Program (BPSK) mobilized a total of 210 volunteer teachers and 420 youth volunteers in the implementation of Summer Big Brother: Reading is Fun! Season 4.

The volunteers were called as Big Ates and Kuyas for 101 implementing schools of the entire province for 15-day remedial classes.

The Volunteer Teachers had undergone a 2-day live out training for proper guidance

in the implementation of the summer reading camp for proper class management, instructional material development, reading strategies sessions, and other interactive learning activities to help improve children’s in reading performance while the Youth Volunteers also undergo training for the importance of volunteerism and good leadership and how they can assist the teachers in managing the class, and the role of the youth in the collective advancement of the province.

Governor Uy recalled how

the BPSK started with only three schools when he was still the Chairman of the Committee on Education and expressed his utmost gratitude to all the eager youth volunteers for their willingness to help of the young Comvaleños.

Meanwhile, the BPSK distributed a total of 1515 copies of Grade 2 SBB Workbooks and another 1515 copies of Grade 3 SBB Workbooks for the implementing schools thorough the province.

Summer Big Brother (SBB) is a reading comprehension program for Grade 2 and Grade 3 elementary pupils who are identified as non-readers in the entire province. (Rey Antibo)

Summer big brother: READING IS FUN! SEASON 4

Daghang Salamat! Our SBB 4 Partners


The province joins the nation in commemorating the 119th Philippine Independence Day celebration in a simple yet signifcant ceremony that started with a motorcade at the capital town of Nabunturan before proceeding at the provincial capitol early morning on June 12, 2017.

“Today, we commemorate our Independence. We remember our heroes who valiantly fought to reclaim our freedom--from the likes of Jose Rizal, the Katipuneros, the Moro warriors and the unsung men and women whose names are unknown. We owe them the freedom that we enjoy now. And it is only fitting that we extend our thanks and gratitude by celebrating their heroism,” Gov. Jayvee Tyron Uy said.

Delivering his message before local officials and employees, national government agencies and other sectors, the governor also took the opportunity to remind the public to “use freedom responsibly” such as in the use of social media to educate and influence other people. “Do not share fake news, do not spread wrong information, “ he said.

The governor also underscored one of the country’s tradition in enhancing freedom which is the culture of Bayanihan. “We are free because we stood up together and we can only remain free by doing the same..let’s start to be unifying rather than divisive. Let’s continue to pracice bayanihan and to be “bayanis” in our own little ways,” the governor added.

Incidentally, Comval culminated the National Gawad Kalinga Build on June 11 in Barangay Pasian, Monkayo where an initial 14 houses (7 duplex-type) were built through the GK way for the family-beneficiaries who were affected in the road widening project in the area.

BGen. Macairog S. Alberto, 1001st Brigade Commanding Officer, 10th ID also shared his message as the guest speaker along with SP Member Vivencia Secuya, in behalf of Vice-Gov. Manuel Zamora, and Cong. Ruwell Peter Gonzaga, Dist. II who gave their opening and closing message, respectively.

“Let us use this day to remind ourselves of the duty we need to fulfill as part of one free community. Sila tung-una, kita na pud karon. Kinahanglan natong ipahinumdum sa atong mga kaugalingon na angay natong panalipdan ang atong kagawasan,” Gov. Uy said. (FFM)

119TH PHIL. INDEPENDENCE DAy ObSERVED


HON. MANUEL E. ZAMORAfrom the OFFICE OF THE VICE-GOVERNOR:

UPDATES& ACTIVITIES

05.25.17. Awarding of 160 CPI-Banana Planters Cooperative Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries in Mangayon, Compostela Valley with Mayor Lema Bolo, RD Joseph Orilla, among others.

06.15.17. Attending the Orientation of the new Barangay Agricultural Extension Workers (BAEW) in Nabunturan. A day before, the SP approved the institutionalization of the BAEW who will serve as the extension arm of the PAGRO.

05.23.17. Visit @ National Housing Authority (NHA) housing project in Baylo, Monkayo, Compostela.

06.02.17. Kick Off Ceremony of the Oplan Laiwanag Program @ Brgy Gym, Poblacion, Compostela.

06.15.17. HELP ME Convergence Service Caravan in New Bataan, Compostela spearheaded by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and LGU New Bataan.

06.26.17. Free Surgical Operation on Cleft lip and Palate @ the Compostela Valley Provincial Hospital in Montevista through the Operation New Face Foundation.

05.31.17. @ DepEd Comval with PSDS Reynante Solitario and Mr. Ruben Reponte.

06.08.17. Inauguration of the new office building during the 5th Founding Anniversary of Compostela Water District.

06.20.17. Barangay Functionaries composed of the Brgy. Health Workers, Brgy Nutrition Scholars and Day Care Workers in Monkayo and Montevista.

06.24.17. Attending the 1st Inter-Municipality Football Competition spearheaded by PLGU Comval @ Montevista Sports Complex.

(All photo credits: Dandie Llaban)


CONG. ZAMORA’S MNSA STUDIESThe fateful decision to apply for admission

to the competitive Master of National Security Administration (MNSA) of the National Defense College of the Philippines came easy for Rep. Maria Carmen “Maricar” Zamora of the first legislative district of Compostela Valley Province, after the gentle nudging of a colleague and friend in Congress who previously took on the challenge. She understood the ramifications of her choice in enhancing her capacities as a legislator and strategic thinker, and prepared for making adjustments in meeting the challenges of returning to an academic setting after a long absence. It meant a big change in her already hectic schedule, having been elected for a third term as her congressional district’s representative. Maricar was determined to pursue the coveted degree, if favorably accepted, but not at the expense of her district’s attention. She was convinced that it was only a matter of strict time management, and she would be able to juggle her time between the two immense commitments.

And so she cast her lot and submitted the required documentary requirements while obtaining the favorable endorsement of then House Speaker Sonny Belmonte who willingly obliged, familiar as he is with the quality of work and determined dedication of the lady lawmaker. Rep. Zamora then took the qualifying examinations and gingerly waited for the results, preoccupying herself with constituency and legislative activities in the meantime.

Her successful admission came with an icing to the cake: one of her good friends in the House, Negros Occidental Representative Mercedes “Chedeng” Alvarez, also made it. Knowing that most slots for the MNSA program are reserved for members of the Armed Forces and other uniformed and law enforcement agencies of government both local and foreign, government officials occupying the higher echelons, and a smattering of high level executives from the public sector, she was at least assured that a close acquaintance will walk the gauntlet along with her in MNSA Regular Class 52.

Orientation and pre-academic activities came whizzing by, with the lady legislator

slowly learning the ropes in dealing with private executives, government functionaries, and men in uniform. When classes started in October 2016, doubts started to creep in, with the realization that the program is littered not only with alien concepts on national security, but also with voluminous technical readings which kept her burning the midnight oil. Adding to the initial bewilderment were her congressional commitments, particularly her duties as the Senior Vice Chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations, which requires her presence and inputs in every step of the annual national budget’s deliberation at the House of Representatives, up to its final version by the Joint Bicameral Conference Committee of both chambers of Congress. The challenge of accomplishing the thesis requirement of the one-year course was equally daunting, with the strict observance of academic rules on intellectual integrity and honesty.

She plodded on, clinging to her unflinching belief that hard work will do the job. She started to get along with the flow of things, finally getting a firm grasp of her core subjects, and came to appreciate the expertise of the slew of distinguished speakers who graced every symposia and lecture organized for MNSA RC 52. At this time, she has gotten used to wearing her multiple hats as a lawmaker, student and mother. She dutifully attends her MNSA classes from 8:00 o’clock in the morning until 4:00 o’clock in the afternoon, many times shuttling from Camp Aguinaldo to the House of Representatives during this stretch when required and as necessary. 4 pm onwards is reserved for plenary duties at the Batasan. Weekends are devoted to district constituency work and family. The punishing schedule demanded her complete focus and commitment. She had to obligate herself.

Maricar’s hard work paid off. She stood out in class, apparently, with the 62-member MNSA RC-52 unanimously electing her as their Class President. Rep. Zamora accepted the challenge of being the leader of the group, urging her classmates and fellow class officers to overcome the hurdles together during her investiture.

More academic hardships and

examinations followed, punctuated by exposure trips to the north of the country and several provinces in the Visayas under the National Security and Development Study (NSDS) tour, purposely to get acquainted with obtaining socio-political realities, strategic industries, national security issues, and provide an incisive and comprehensive analysis of them.

The lady lawmaker chose to analyze the impact of the PantawidPamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) among its beneficiaries in Region XI as the subject matter of her thesis requirement. She has successfully defended her proposal and study methodology some months back before an esteemed panel of academics, with valuable inputs from them. As of this writing, data gathering through the conduct of a quantitative survey and focus group discussions using representative samples from different provinces in Region XI, is being done. It is expected that the final output of the study will be compiled and submitted to the NDCP before the target date.

Split into various groups and as an integral part of the program, MNSA RC-52 members headed to various locations internationally for the Global Security and Development Study (GSDS) for several days last June 2017. Rep. Zamora’s group was tasked to cover Italy and learn more about its national security concerns. They were toured to various strategic areas, briefed by high-ranking security officials, and made familiar with the awesome national defense resources of the country. The lady lawmaker, as luck would have it, also had the rare chance of meeting and briefly talking face-to-face with the Holy Pontiff during their visit to the Vatican. She says, without any doubt, that this was one of the highlights not only of her GSDS, but her MNSA study as a whole. Moved and inspired by the experience, she brought home many realizations in terms of learning and faith, and of her duty to country.

As it is, Rep. Zamora has gone through the hard part of the MNSA program and came out a wiser strategic thinker. She has learned the intricacies of national security, got well-versed with the modern scourges of war by many means, climate change, terrorism and extremism, and acquired important knowledge on disaster risk mitigation and management. Barring any glitches, she will graduate from the program by September this year, convinced that national security for the Philippines, in this world where might still makes right, is a critical balance between maintaining internal peace and projecting external strength.//

HON. MARIA CARMEN S. ZAMORA

UPDATES&ACTIVITIESCONGRESSIONAL

DISTRICT 1


bonding with our people. Letting them know that our government is working for them.

- Cong. Gonzaga

HOUSE BILL NO. 2774 - AN ACT PROVIDING COMPENSATION TO BARANGAY OFFICIALS, INCLUDING LUPONG TAGAPAMAYAPA, PUROK CHAIRMAN AND BARANGAY TANOD, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991’ AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE BILLS FILED BY CONGRESSMAN RUWEL PETER S. GONZAGA AS OF JULY 18, 2017 FOR THE 17TH CONGRESS

HOUSE BILL NO. 2775 - AN ACT INCREASING AND EXPANDING THE COVERAGE OF THE MONTHLY STIPEND OF INDIGENT SENIOR CITIZENS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7432, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KOWN AS “THE EXPANDED SENIOR CITIZENS ACT OF 2010.

HOUSE BILL NO. 4663 - AN ACT RENAMING THE PROVINCE OF COMPOSTELA VALLEY INTO DAVAO DE ORO PROVINCE, AMMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE PERTINENT PORTIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8470.

Sitio Sugod, Tuburan, Mawab

HON. RUWEL PETER S. GONZAGA

UPDATES&ACTIVITIESCONGRESSIONAL

DISTRICT 2

60th Araw ng Barangay Manat in Nabunturan, July 3, 2017

Barangay Golden Valley, Mabini

45th founding anniversary of Barangay

Cabacungan, Nabunturan


Comval Uswag-Gawad Kalinga team led by Gov. Tyron Uy joined the National “Bayani Challenge 2017: Tatak Bayani” held in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao Del Norte on April 17-22. The group also paid a courtesy visit to Surigao Del Norte Vice Governor Arturo Carlos A. Egay Jr. who expressed his gratitude for their support.

Gov. Tyron Uy turns over the P500,000 worth of check to Surigao City Mayor Ernesto Matugas in Surigao City on April 18, 2017. The city suffered huge damage during a 6.7 magnitude earthquake that happened last February. The governor was also warmly welcomed during their Execom meeting.

One of the remarkable values of the Comvalenyos is their will to serve their fellow Filipinos through the concept of bayanihan, holding on to their commitment that “no one shall be left behind.”With this, the province initiated the Oplan Marawi Donation Drive from capitol employees, public and private companies to extend help to the people of Marawi City.“When we were struck by Pablo, we received donations from far-away places and people we don’t even know. Now that our brothers and sisters in Marawi are in a serious crisis, it is our solemn obligation to help them as members of our own shared Filipino community,” Gov. Tyron Uy said.

Gk PAbAHAy/SURIGAO

CHECk TURNOVER

COMVALENyOS LEAD DONATION DRIVE FOR MARAWI PEOPLE

GIVINGbACk!OUR WAY OF

#ONECOMVALONEVISION

PGO-IDS, 3RD flR., Prov’l Capitol Bldg.,Nabunturan, Comval Province

Official Website: www.ecomval.gov.ph Email: [email protected]

FB Account: [email protected]

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