One Mindanao - April 14, 2014

PIA-13 chief encourages Dinagat IOs to give value to their roles in societyJennifer P.GaitanoCARAGA REGION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 160

Malacanang urges public: Pay taxes before April 15 deadline

NATIONAL

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NORTHERN MINDANAO

CENTRAL MINDANAO

SOUTHERN MINDANAO

CARAGA REGION

SurSur town earns praise for campaign vs illegal fishing

2013, a triumphant year for AgriPinoy Corn Program in Caraga

Best Early Learning Center, among the 2014 Search for Gawad Kalasag Awards

RDRRMC-12 commends CDRRMO for successful earthquake drill in GenSan

Cotabato Centennial Photo Contest gathers over a hundred entries

13 rebels yield to the military in, Compostela Valley

Coco-based products top export earners for Northern Mindanao

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Information to Empower Filipinos

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WESTERN MINDANAO

DTI-Sibugay conducts training on abaca handicraft making

Military troops clash with ASGs in efforts at flushing out lawlessness in Basilan

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Emmanuel D. Taghoy

Rene V. Carbayas

Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

Catherine T. Apelacio

Shahana Joy E. Duerme

Joey Sem G. Dalumpines

Apipa P. Bagumbaran

Greg Tataro, Jr.

Aurell P. Arais

PIA-13 chief encourages Dinagat IOs to give value to their roles in society

You have to give value to your role as information officers because people depend on

the information you deliver to them. Do not settle for less, do not take your responsibilities for granted, instead do your best as government communicator and give justice to your functions.”

This was the statement of regional director Abner Caga of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga during the opening of the Three-Day Seminar-Workshop on Basic News Writing, Script Writing, Photography, and Video Production held on Monday at the San Jose Pension House, Justiniana, San Jose, Dinagat Islands. “PIA is here with you today for this training, no matter how far we have to travel because we care

for the information officers in the region. We should develop their skills and make them productive in their position,” Caga remarked. Caga added that information

By Jennifer P.Gaitano

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dissemination by the information officers should be timely, accurate and reliable “so the public will be informed real time and be able to respond especially in times of disaster.” Caga further disclosed that Dinagat Islands is a fertile ground to create change. He emphasized that the best way to communicate is through the heart. “Our agency, in its earnest effort chose to conduct this lecture to help enhance the skills of our local communicators,” stressed Caga. The good director also expressed his optimism that the local communicators in the province will be able to level up its strategies and means of communicating to the public. The said training will run until April 16 (Wednesday) and participants will undergo workshops every after the lecture

by the PIA personnel.

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Palace says visit of US President an opportune time to strengthen ties with our ally

Malacanang said on Sunday that the forthcoming visit of United States President Barack Obama is an opportune

time for the Philippines to further strengthen its ties with our ally.

Across the Nation

“Ang nakatakdang pagdalaw ni Pangulong Barack Obama ay magsisilbing magandang pagkakataon para palakasin at gawing higit na matibay pa ang masinsin na pakikipag-ugnayan ng Pilipinas sa Estados Unidos,” Communications Secretary Herminio

Coloma, Jr. said in press briefing aired over government radio dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

He said the United States is a valuable partner of the Philippines in the field of defense and security, an economic, livelihood and business partner.

“Batid natin na ang Estados Unidos

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Across the Nation

ang ating pangunahin at istratehikong partner sa larangan ng defense at security, at isa rin pong partner ng ating bansa sa larangan ng ekonomiya, kabuhayan, at negosyo,” Coloma noted.

He added that both Filipinos and Americans see that the visit will further boost friendship between the two countries.

“At maraming dekada na ang pakikipagkaibigan ng mga Pilipino at Amerikano kaya’t umaasa po tayo na ang darating na pagdalaw ni Pangulong Barack Obama ay higit pang magpapatibay at magpapalakas sa pagkakaibigan at pakikipag-ugnayan ng dalawang bansa sa isa’t isa,” Coloma said. PND

Malacanang urges public: Pay taxes before April 15 deadline

Malacanang urged the public to pay their taxes before the 15 April 2014 (Tuesday) deadline.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., in a press briefing aired over radio station dzRB Radyo ng Bayan, also warned the public that non-compliance has its legal consequences.

“Ang sinumang hindi makapagsumite at makapagbayad ng kanilang income tax ay pagmumultahin ng 25 porsyento ng kanilang kabuuang kita at karagdagang 20 porsyentong interes bawat taon,” said Coloma.

He reminded the public that the taxes collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is the lifeblood of the country’s economy and the main source of funds for the government’s programs and projects.

Coloma said this year the BIR’s target revenue is 1.4 trillion pesos, which is nineteen percent (19%) higher than the government’s goal last year.

BIR is campaigning and encouraging individuals, groups and business owners to file their Income Tax Returns and pay their taxes on or before the scheduled deadline.

“Ang kampanya ng pamahalaan na ibayong pag-igtingin ang paglikom ng wastong halaga ng buwis ay bahagi ng pagpupunyagi na itaas ang katumbas na halaga ng buwis sa kabuuang gross domestic product (GDP) ng bansa o tax-to-GDP ratio sa pagitan ng 16 hanggang 18 porsyento sa taong 2016,” Coloma explained. PND

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Islamic finance prospects for Mindanao eyedThe recent submission of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to President Benigno

S. Aquino III, is a step nearer to the realization of what many will hope will be a lasting peace for Mindanao.


One of the sectors that will benefit from the realization of peace in Mindanao is the finance sector, including small organizations like the peace group Katyakap.

Katyakap started as a peace advocate organization in General Santos City which coordinated with the UNDP’s Act for Peace. But while fulfilling its mandate, it realized the potential for Islamic Finance in the area and has moved on to provide micro-financing to clients.

“Katyakap started to provide non-interest financing to our clients mostly Moro women in September 2012 with a P1 million capital fund from PEF,” said Yolanda M. Nawal of Katyakap.

Nawal said Islamic Finance is not so hard to implement because their clients understand the concept and have a good repayment rate.

However, not all Muslims in Mindanao are lucky enough to be able to avail of Islamic Financing.

Despite the prohibition under the Shari’ah Law of interest-bearing loans, Muslims in the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and other areas in Mindanao are forced to borrow on interest, even under the 5-6 lending scheme because of the lack of Islamic Financing opportunities in the area.

The signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) between the Government

of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) last month renewed hopes that more investors will take advantage of the opportunities offered by Islamic Financing.

“Once there is peace we can expect more investors to invest in the Bangsamoro area especially in the area of Islamic Finance,” said Tamar B. Samuay, a Consultant of the Federation of the United Mindanaoan Bangsamoro Women Multi-Purpose Cooperative.

Samuay was one of those who attended the Seminar on Crafting the Bangsamoro Islamic Finance conducted by the Al Qalam Institute of Ateneo de Davao University and the Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF) in the city last month.

Samuay said they expect the Islamic Development Bank (IDB), an international financing institution to establish its presence in the Bangsamoro area once peace has been established, providing more financing opportunities for the Muslims.

“We hope many investors will be encouraged to invest in in Islamic finance, banking and even micro finance to ensure that wealth will be properly distributed in the Bangsamoro area,” Mussolini S. Lidasan, Al Qalam Executive Director said.

Priyonggo Suseno, a Shari’ah


Economic expert and Professor at the Islamic University of Indonesia, said Islamic banking and finance has become a global trend because of religious, economic, and academic reasons.

He said more than 28.26 percent of the world’s population are Muslim with 2.04 billion in Asia (23 percent) and Africa (53 percent).

“Islamic finance is growing by 20 percent or 1.630 billion dollars annually,” he said.

Muslims believe in Islam as the way of life and since one of the main principles in Islam is the non-separation of temporal and religious matters, compliance with Shar’ia is the basis for not only religious worship and rituals but also business practices and behaviors.

Soseno said Islamic Finance does not only prohibit Riba which means excessive or unjustifiable increase of capital whether in loans or sales but it also prohibits excessive uncertainty and speculative behavior, discourages hoarding and prohibits Haraam or unlawful business including investing in unethical sectors such as casinos, tobacco companies, wine, alcohol and sex-oriented business.

The Bangsamoro Women Multi-Purpose Cooperative which

Mr. Saumay handles is one of the cooperatives that went into Islamic Finance even before the peace process has been inked.

The cooperative produces halal beauty soap and detergents and markets its products in Cotabato and Palawan under the brand name Palamanis which means beauty.

But more than that, it is also engaged in Islamic Financing.

“The cooperative is into micro-finance also but following the Islamic principles of musaraba or profit-loss sharing without interest,” Saumay said “what exists is a partnership agreement between the cooperative and its clients.”

Saumay said PEF is set to provide them a P3 Million capital for their microfinance business which also follows the profit-sharing mode where the Cooperative is mandated to return the principal and profit at a rate of 30 percent for PEF and 70 percent for the cooperative.

“We consider this workshop very helpful considering that we have Indonesian speakers who educated us on both the Bait al Mal or financing for charity and Bait al-Tamwweel or financing for business which we already practice. The Bait al Mal is a fairly new concept for us,” he said.


7th Siargao International Game Fishing Tournament set By Kylee Doreene T. QueSURIGAO DEL NORTE - Siargao Island, the home of two international events is gearing up for the staging of the 7th Siargao International Game Fishing Tournament. It is calendared on April 24-27, 2014 at the town of Pilar, Siargao Island.


The said event is a joint undertaking between the Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga, the Province of Surigao del Norte, LGU-Pilar and One Corporate Events.

About 75 anglers from the Philippines and abroad are expected to compete for the following categories including the Biggest Billfish, Biggest Talakitok, Biggest Wahoo/Tangigue and Biggest Dorado.

Cash prizes and trophies amounting to P 300,000.00 are up for grabs for the biggest catch in the island.

Other side events are also lined up for tourists and residents to enjoy and that includes a worthwhile partnership made with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Caraga for Passport Processing.

The said international event is running on its 7th year and DOT is hopeful that this will be another milestone for Caraga in terms of tourist arrivals.

For the rules and regulations, registration and other information, please visit our website at www.gamef i sh ings i a rgao . com


2013, a triumphant year for AgriPinoy Corn Program in Caraga BUTUAN CITY-- “Clear vision, close coordination and determination is equal to success,” this has been the constant reminder of acting regional executive director Edna Mabeza to every staff under her management in the Department of Agriculture regional field unit 13 (DA-RFU 13).

By Aurell P. Arais

“Proper coordination leads to effective program implementation,” Mabeza added.

hese are the driving force of the Caraga AgriPinoy Corn Program in attaining various achievements not just in terms of awards but on helping the farmers alleviate their plight.

As a result of close coordination, DA 13 garnered five major awards last year during the 1st National Quality Corn Achievers Awards wherein the awarding was held at Taal Vista Hotel, Tagaytay City last October 23, 2013.

Caraga region grabbed the following awards: Most Outstanding Province: Province of Agusan del Sur, Most Outstanding Municipalities: Esperanza, Agusan del Sur and Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte; Most Outstanding Provincial Corn Coordinator- Perla C. Galaura of Agusan del Sur; Most Outstanding Municipal Corn Coordinators: Mary Jane A. Maratas and Jovie R. Ego-ugan; and Most Outstanding Corn AEWs: Ismael Saguran and Nelson Dulayba.

The activity is aimed at the country’s corn industry to level up through the strong partnership of the government, private sector, corn farmers and other stakeholders.

But grabbing an award is just the tip of the iceberg. What is most important is the growth rate on corn production attained last year

Based on data, corn production posted an increase of 20.06 percent for the year 2013 as compared to 2012 or an annual production of 89,521 metric tons (MT) on 2012 to 107,476 MT on 2013. This was attributed to increase in area harvested which was 33,830 hectares in 2012 to 38,017 hectares in 2013 and an increase in yield from 2.65 tons in 2012 to 2.83 tons in 2013 or an increment of 6.83 percent.

Increase in area for corn was due to availability of seeds and favorable soil moisture while increase in yield was attributed to lesser occurrence of pests and diseases as well as the use of high quality seeds.

To strengthen coordination, DA RFU 13 meet with its local government unit counterparts composed of 82 LGU agricultural extension workers working with the corn program region-wide more often.

Aside from meetings, AEWS were also equipped with the necessary capabilities through training of trainers (TOT) and other field exposure activities.

On the other hand, to make the farmers at par with the agri-technological advances, farmer field schools (FFS) were conducted.

Radio was also tapped in teaching the farmers through the University on the Air on Corn Production aired on four radio stations in Caraga. It was a two month


SurSur town earns praise for campaign vs illegal fishing BUTUAN CITY-- The municipality of Cortes, Surigao del Sur has earned praise from the Provincial Fishery and Aquatic Resources Office (PFARO) for its intensified campaign against illegal fishing.

By Greg Tataro, Jr.

radio broadcast using the corn production module anchored by the respective LGU corn coordinators together with the provincial farmcasters.

To further encourage the farmers in its endeavor, various interventions had been implemented such as the provision of farm mechanization projects ranging from planting to harvesting as well as inputs needed by the farmers.

DA -13 also implemented massive campaign on consumption of white

corn through information and education campaign.

Following the milestones in the roadmap towards corn sufficiency in the country, it will not be long that Caraga Region will suffice in corn production and produce more than its commodity demand.

Armed with technically equipped staff including its LGU counterparts and development minded farmers, in due time, Caraga Region will become a major corn producing region in the country.

According to PFARO Chief Luisito Yu, it is the first local government unit (LGU) in the province to implement a distinct approach of convincing fisher folk to adopt an alternative and comprehensive program that aims to develop a sustainable fishing industry.

He said that such move is part of the Coastal Resource Management (CRM) program which Mayor William Angos is so serious about.

On March 26, Yu said that he was able witness the holding of ceremony highlighting the surrender of close to 2,000 illegal

fishing gears, undersized fine mesh nets included, from local fishermen, which no less than Caraga Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) regional director Nerio Casil also attended.

SurSur town earns praise for campaign vs illegal fishing

Dominga MallongaDOST-Caraga Regional Director

for more details visit us DOST National Website: http://www.dost.gov.phDOST Caraga Website: http://caraga.dost.gov.ph


“Kilom-kilom” launch set April 20 in Dipolog By Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY – The provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte in partnership with the city government is slated to launch an entertainment show dubbed “Kilom-Kilom” come April 20, 2014 at the city boulevard.


“Kilom-kilom” launch set April 20 in Dipolog

DTI-Sibugay conducts training on abaca handicraft makingIPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Zamboanga Sibugay conducted a three-day training on Abaca handicraft making last April 7-9 to members of Katipunan ng mga May Kapansanan sa Ipil, Inc. (KAMPIL, Inc.) at Barangay Poblacion, this municipality. As part of DTI’s capability training to enhance handicraft making, a technology demonstration on abaca twining and rope making machines was done on the first day while abaca weaving techniques, bag making and other products were tackled in the

succeeding days. KAMPIL, Inc. is also one of the beneficiaries of DTI’s Shared Service Facilities (SSF) project. The group is expected to receive from the SSF project five sewing machines and one rope making machine

“Kilom-Kilom,” which is a Cebuano term for sundown, is coined to the spectacular sunset at the Dipolog Boulevard that led the local tourism office to come up with a show that would showcase the beauty of the city’s sunset. Acting Provincial Tourism Officer Joshua Bicoy said “Kilom-Kilom” will feature music, dances, plays and visual arts by groups or individuals who want to show and present their talents. The “Kilom-Kilom” idea, it was learned, came from a US-based Dipolognon artist and photographer, Armand Bengua Frasco, who got fascinated by the nightly sunset celebration in Florida, USA. This early, City Tourism Officer Cecille Reluya-Bilog is inviting the different groups and organizations to showcase their talents during the event, saying “this is one way to invite tourists and even the locals to come and visit the city and the province.” Bicoy also said “Kilom-Kilom” will

be a gathering of artists, performers and artisans in the different fields such as visual art, music, theater, literature, traditional arts, photography and others” adding that “through this Dipolog will be known as one of the creative and entertainment hubs in the region.” Among the groups signifying to hold performances for the “Kilom-Kilom” are the Zamboanga del Norte National High School –Special Program in the Arts (ZNNHS-SPA), Dipolog Dapitan Camera Club Inc. (DDCCI), Dipolog Community Rondalla, and the 101st Infantry Brigade Band. Moreover, Ta Glibon Ini Lady Art Collective, Teacher’s Choir of DepEd, Zamboanga del Norte Press Club Inc. (ZNPCI), Zamboanga del Norte Federation of Parents’ Association (ZNFePA), and the Zamboanga del Norte History, Culture and the Arts Council also expressed strong support to the said project.

By Emmanuel D. Taghoy


The Western Mindanao Command based in Zamboanga City said that as per report from the operating units on the ground, there were undetermined number of casualties from the enemy side while eighteen wounded in action from the government side, who were immediately brought to Zamboanga City for medication via military aircraft. The clash occurred at around 2:25 a.m. Capt. Maria Rowena A Muyuela PN(M), WesMinCom Public Information Officer said in a press release that the launching of the said combat operation has been coordinated with the AHJAG, CCCH and the PNP in pursuit of the lawless elements, primarily the ASG, which is believed to be responsible for several extortions and kidnapping

cases in Mindanao. According to 104thBde BGen Calrlito Galvez, the ASG has occupied a school building in Barangay Baguindan. Galvez said that the operation was intended to seize Furuji Indama and his group who tried to threaten and extort money from the ongoing construction of the Magkawa-Albarka Road. The said operation was conducted purposely to clear Tipo-Tipo and Albarka of ASG influence to pave the way for the normalization and development of these depressed areas. Muyuela said the Western Mindanao Command will commit all available air and naval assets in support of the operations in order to immediately seize this group of criminals and bandits.

Military troops clash with ASGs in efforts at flushing out lawlessness in Basilan By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Military troops conducting combat operations have encountered early Friday morning an undetermined number of Abu Sayyaf Group led by Furuji Indama at Unkaya Pukan town in Basilan.

with a total cost of P179 thousand. KAMPIL, Inc. produces different abaca products such as slippers, bags, sandals, novelty items, and several others. The SSF project is said to have been made possible through the help of the private sector through Public-Private Partnership initiative, which aims to improve the productivity and

quality of the six champion products in the region, as well as the capacity of micro-enterprises and SMEs in the region. The SSF project is also implemented in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) and the Department of Agriculture (DA).


BFAR ensures harmful algal bloom-affected fishes safe for consumptionby Kierra M. Rubillos

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 10 (BFAR) clarified that fishes affected from the harmful algal bloom (HAB) along the coasts of Misamis Oriental and Occidental are safe when eaten fresh.

http://www.philstar.com/business/2013/07/19/985831/bfar-eyes-export-pompano-fish


In a press conference held on April 10, BFAR revealed that the discoloration along bays of Macalajar, Murcielagos and Iligan has Cochlodinium polykrikoides -- organism that caused the occurrence of HAB resulting to fish kills. Asuncion Maputol, BFAR 10 Assistant Regional Director, said that HAB is caused by the increase in temperature and water salinity as well as by the water movement and current. However, she stressed that such occurence is only toxic to fishes. “These species caused fish mass mortality of ‘fish kills’ but they do not produce toxins that can cause poisoning to human beings,” said BFAR-10 Regional Director Visa Tan

Dimerin. To avoid any bacterial infestation, BFAR advised the public not to eat dead fishes taken from areas having discolored water.Dimerin also emphasized that fish could be eaten as long as it is fresh and thoroughly cleaned before consumption. From the fish kills which started on April 1, Balingasag Mariculture Park reported a total value of P550,360 of the 45,594 pieces of dead milkfish. 20 fish cages and 15 investors were also noted to have been damaged and affected by the incident. This coming Holy Week, BFAR assures safety in coastal areas for expected beach vacations provided that the area has no discoloration.

Best Early Learning Center, among the 2014 Search for Gawad Kalasag Awards by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental - The Best Early Learning Center (ELC), urban and rural categories will be added to the 2014 Search for Gawad Kalasag Awards.

This will bring to 28, the total number of categories in the Search for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Humanitarian Assistance or the Gawad Kalasag Awards under the

revised guidelines, Ana C. Cañeda, Regional Director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), region 10, said. Cañeda, Chairperson of the Regional DRRM Council, region 10,


Best Early Learning Center, among the 2014 Search for Gawad Kalasag Awards

during a recent briefing with the Ozamiz City DRRM Council, said the additional categories will recognize the efforts of the ELC’s in starting the DRRM, among small children. A Filipino term for “shield” or “armor,” used by early Filipinos as a means of protection from attacks of enemies or harmful animals, “KALASAG,” actually stands for “Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan (Prevent Calamities and Accidents, Be Concerned of Your Safety).” The Search for Gawad KaLaSag Awards was conceived to encourage participation of various stakeholders in crafting and implementing DRRM programs aimed at protecting or shielding high risk communities against hazards and recognize their outstanding performance during natural or human-induced disasters. Winners at the national level shall receive Plaques of Recognition for their DRRM efforts and will receive cash awards that can be spent for DRRM-related activities in

the following amounts: 1st Place, P100,000; 2nd Place, P75,000; and 3rd place, P50,000. The period of assessment of the Search will be the preceding calendar year on the following categories: Best DRRMC - Province, Component and Highly Urbanized City, 1st – 3rd Class and 4th – 6th Class Municipalities and Urban and Rural Barangays. Best Civil Society Organizations, Non-government Organization, Faith-based Organizations, people’s Organization, private volunteer organizations, Government Emergency Response Management (GEM), basic and urban search and rescue, urban and rural public and private schools, Government Hospitals , Levels 1, 2 & 3, National and LGU, Private Hospitals (Level 1,2,3) and Specialty Hospitals . Heroic Act of Individuals, Living and Posthumous and Group and Special Recognition Awards for Individuals and Group.

Coco-based products top export earners for Northern Mindanaoby Apipa P. Bagumbaran

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Coconut commodities remained as Northern Mindanao’s major exports earning US$417.67 million in 2013.


The 2013 economic situationer report made by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Regional Office showed that coconut-based products comprised 53 percent of the total regional exports for 2013. The value of these products however went down by compared to the US$468.46 million earned in 2012. Even with the 17 percent increase in the volume exported, the decline in the average global market prices brought down its value by ten percent, said Engr. Cecilio Clarete, chief economic development specialist of NEDA. Other top export products for the region include processed foods with 20 percent share or US$153.74 million, industrial manufactures

valued at US$57.90 million, wood-based products at US$42.79 million, other resource-based products at US$42.30 million, and fresh fruits at US$39.38 million. The major export gainer was iron and steel with US$4.82 million or 523 percent higher than in 2012. Rubber-based products also jumped 78 percent from US$3.40 million in 2012 to US$6.05 million. Among the provinces, Misamis Oriental was the biggest contributor to the total regional exports with 70 percent or US$551.20 million. The remaining 30 percent was shared by Lanao del Norte (13 percent) valued at US$101.05 million, Misamis Occidental (9 percent) at US$71.76 million and Bukidnon (8 percent) at US$59.75 million.


Sarangani celebrates Rep. Pacquiao’s big winALABEL, Sarangani – Cheers of victory erupt as Rep. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao wins his fight against Timothy Bradley Sunday, April 13, shown live before a large crowd in a wide screen. Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (foreground) throws a towel in the air and cheers with thousands of spectators who filled Capitol Gym to the rafters. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Ninety-four high school graduates and 15 college sophomores from SOCCSKSARGEN Region have quali-fied as scholars of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for school year 2014-2015.

DOST announces 109 new scholars in SOCCSKSARGEN RegionBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

DOST 12 regional director Ze-naida P. HR-Laidan said this year, the region recorded a remarkable increase of 24% in the number of scholars as compared to that in the past school year.

She added, among the freshmen college scholars are 83 who be-long to economically disadvantaged families and have met the crite-ria under the RA 7687 Scholarship grants, while 11 have qualified for the DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program.

DOST conducted the qualify-ing examination on September 22, 2013 for top 10% graduating high school students in Region XII held in the following testing centers: University Laboratory School-Uni-versity of Southern Mindanao (ULS-USM) in Kabacan, Cotabato; Notre Dame University (NDU), Cotabato City; Mindanao State University (MSU)-General Santos City; Notre Dame of Marbel College (NDMU)-Koronadal City, and Sultan Kudarat University (SKU)-Tacurong City.

Qualifiers who avail of any of the S&T undergraduate scholarships may pursue a four- or five-year col-

lege degree in priority science and technology fields.

Scholars are entitled to tuition and other school fees subsidy, book allowance and monthly living al-lowance, among others, except for a pro-rated monthly stipend for the scholars under the Merit Scholar-ship Award which is based on the family’s socio-economic status.

As the annual DOST-SEI Un-dergraduate Scholarship provides the opportunity for deserving high school graduates to pursue four or five-year baccalaureate degrees in priority science and technology ar-eas, programs qualifiers may en-roll in state universities and other higher education institutions duly recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as Cen-ters of Excellence or Centers of De-velopment.

Meanwhile, 15 second year col-lege students who are enrolled in DOST-SEI identified institutions under its priority courses in SOC-CSKSARGEN have qualified for the S&T Scholarships for Sophomore College Students.

Of this number, 9 are catego-


rized under the RA 7687 scholar-ship program and 6 under the Merit scholarship.

Moreover, DOST 12 has sched-uled the scholarship orientation and signing of scholarship agreement on April 30, 2014 at Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU), Alunan Avenue, Koronadal City.

The Summer Orientation and En-richment Program (SOEP) for RA 7687 qualifiers will be conducted

on May 5 - 30, 2014 at the NDMU, Koronadal City.

For details and other information, contact DOST-XII at (064)421-6908 and 421-2711 or any of the pro-vincial S & T centers in South Co-tabato at (083)228-2342; SARGEN (083)-554-7997; Sultan Kudarat (064)200-3521 and North Cotabato (064)288-2112. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12 with report from DOST 12)

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) 12 commended the City DRRM Office (CDRRMO) on the success of the recent 2014 1st Quarter National Simulta-neous Earthquake Drill (NSED) here.

RDRRMC-12 commends CDRRMO for successful earthquake drill in GenSanBy: Catherine T. Apelacio

“Congratulations LGU GenSan especially the CDRRMO for the suc-cessful conduct of the drill being the pilot site in the region for this year’s 1st quarter NSED,” acting RDRRMC-12 chairman Jerome Bar-ranco said during the 10th Regular Meeting of the RDRRMC-12 Thurs-day, April 3.

“The CDRRMO has passed with flying colors,” Barranco, also the Office of the Civil Defense 12 Offi-cer-in-Charge told CDRRMO action officer Agripino Dacera Jr.

The drill which was led by CDRRMO was held at the Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges (RMMC) with

some 2,000 students and faculty members joining the activity that kicked off at 8:45 a.m., Wednes-day, March 19.

Dacera said the drill was based on a “scenario of a 6.9 earthquake lasting for about 2 minutes dam-aging a number of commercial and residential buildings.”

The scenario also made sure that power lines were down while com-munications and government fa-cilities and hospitals functional and roads and bridges remained pass-able.

“Initial report coming from the ground indicated a collapse of the


portion of RMMC with initial dam-age assessment that showed un-dertermined number of trapped victims,” he told PIA General San-tos City.

Reports also signified that the collapsed structure was a two-storey building with 8 classrooms being occupied at the time of the tremor.

Upon taking hold of the initial data, Dacera said he immediately alerted all responding units.

Dacera also cited their actions, which he said should be implement-ed systematically being crucial, such as “alert, dispatch, conduct of initial assessment, structural as-sessment, and perimeter security and traffic control.”

“You see the degree of damage to the building shows unstable ground on which emergency responders could conduct search and rescue,” he explained.

In disaster, structural stability also needs to be considered prior to the conduct of search and rescue, Dacera, who is a doctor of dental medicine, added.

He also stressed further that any remaining structure “is an immi-nent threat” since it may collapse due to possible aftershocks.

Aside from the immediacy of the response and assessment, the need to organize every action of the re-sponders, were also imperative be-ing part of the whole process of the drill.

Foremost, Dacera said was the need to put up the Incident Com-mand System to serve as command and control post, staging area, ad-vance medical, and media manage-ment.

But he was happy to note that the drill was a success, saying that it is really important for them, lo-cal DRRMCs to gauge their capa-bility in warning dissemination and response.

He also thanked all the respond-ers coming from different govern-ment agencies, NGOs and rescue teams for their assistance, cooper-ation, and support in the conduct of the activity as well as the students and faculty posing as victims.

Meanwhile, Barranco described the exercise as orderly and sys-tematic. He said that it was very effective since the information was fast that it even reached as far as Davao.

It seemed real to the people who didn’t know that it was only just a drill, he said.

Barranco said that NSED’s objec-tive was really “to determine and measure the efficiency of govern-ment disaster frontlines especially the LGUs in disseminating warning to the public as well as providing the needed response” in the event that an actual calamity occur.

The simultaneous drill was im-plemented pursuant to a memo-randum order issued by the Na-tional Disaster Risk Reduction and


Management Council on March 4, 2014.

It is also mandated under Re-public Act 10121 othewise known “as an act strengthening the Phil-ippine disaster risk reduction and management system, providing for

the national disaster risk reduction and management framework and institutionalizing the national disas-ter risk reduction and management plan, appropriating funds therefore and for other purposes.” (CT Apela-cio/PIA-12 General Santos City)

KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato (PIA)--A total of 121 photos from both professional and amateur photographers all over North Cotabato were sub-mitted as entries for this year’s Cotabato Centennial Photo Contest.

Cotabato Centennial Photo Contest gathers over a hundred entriesBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

Dr. Samuel A. Aquino, head of the Provincial Cooperatives Development Office (PCDO) and in-charge of the event said that the photos were from 31 individuals who joined the competition.

Aquino noted that the photos are displayed at the photo gallery of the PCDO located in the Agri-Center Building in Barangay Amas.

“Entries showcase people in rural areas, street or city, customs, traditions, historical landmarks, structures and symbols that portray the history and evolution of North Cotabato,” he stated.

The entries will be judged by multi-awarded photographers from Davao City.

Aquino explained that the judges will base their judging on subject and composition with 50%, sharpness

which include hue and contrast with 20%, thematic message with 15% and composition style with 15%.

“The winners will receive cash, medallions and certificates from the provincial government,” he added.

The photo entries will be displayed at the gallery until April 15 for its final judging and viewers are encouraged to vote for their chosen entry. The photo with the most number of votes will be awarded the People’s Choice.

Meanwhile, Governor Emmylou Mendoza expressed her deep appreciation to those who joined the contest. She said that the photos are important as these are not simply part of the contest but also because they represent the history, culture and tradition of North Cotabato. (SJDuerme-PIA12/JSta.Cruz-N. Cotabato Provincial Government)


Samal boosts security for Holy Week

DAVAO DEL NORTE – In anticipa-tion of the influx of tourists, the city government of Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) will as-semble security forces from gov-ernment agencies and non govern-ment organizations to safeguard

the island during the Holy Week exodus. In an i n t e r v i e w , P o l i c e Superintedent R o l a n d Agohob, chief of police here, said that around 500 security forces from 14 different agencies will guard the perimeters of

the island covering its land, sea and air during the Holy Week break on April 17-21. The forces will be coming from Armed Forces of the Philippines (Naval Forces of


Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) and Naval Security Unit (NAVSU), Tactical Operation Group XI and 1003rd Infantry Brigade); Philippine Air Force; Maritime Police; Philippine Coast Guard; IGaCoS Philippine National Police; Task Group Samal; Bureau of Fire Protection; City Health Office; Kabalikat Civicom; and City Mayor’s Office-City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Division and Public Information Division. To harmonize the efforts of each security agency, Supt. Agohob said that this year the city will activate a command center at the Peñaplata Freedom Park, following an incident command system with

Mayor Aniano Antalan as the commander and him as the deputy. Agohob said that they also met with owners of beach resorts to establish rescue centers in their area to directly address untoward incidents. Melrose Arig, city information officer here, said that a send-off ceremony is set on the morning of April 17 at the command center to properly dispatch the forces to their respective assignments. Agohob added that the command center will be manned by representatives from the different agencies and can be reached through mobile phone number 0942.9319998. (PIA 11, Michael Uy)

did you know...that the name Samal came from the word Sama the indigenous peoples who settled in the island. Visayan settlers miscalled the name Sama hence it came to be known as Samal.


13 rebels yield to the military in, Compostela ValleyDAVAO CITY-A total of 13 rebels yielded to the military in Baran-gay Cabinuangan, New Bataan, Compostela Valley in a reception headed by Lt. Colonel Michael Logico, commanding officer of the 66th Infantry Battalion Saturday, following a six-hour travel from a far-flung barangay in Davao Orien-tal. He said the rebels surrendered due to the unbearable hardships in the mountain, missing their family and loved ones, wanting a new life. Logico assured the rebels that their rights will be respected at all times. “ We welcome your decision to return to the folds of the law, rest assured that all of you will be treated humanely and your rights will be upheld at all times,” he said. Major General Ariel Bernardo, commander of the 10th Infantry Division welcomed the surrender and urged other members of the communist movement to follow the example set by their comrades

who turned in peacefully to the authorities. “Everytime a brother of ours lays down arms is another step in our journey to win the peace. It is sad though that more of our brothers and sisters are being used in an armed struggle which has no more place in our society,” he said. Captain Ernest Carolina, public affairs officer of the 10th Civil-Military Operations Battalion said six of the former rebels were from the Front Committee 15 while seven were once member of the Front Committee 20, all of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee of the New People’s Army. He said the former rebels are now undergoing custodial debriefing and documentation so that they can avail of the government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) for them to start a new peaceful way of life. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

One Mindanao - April 14, 2014

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