One Mindanao - January 22, 2013

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESEDITORIAL BOARDWestern Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038Cellphone no. 0908-8843404E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]: www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA WesMin Info BlizTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIAIX

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

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

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

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phBlogspot: www.piacaraga.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

Executive Editor …….. EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI

Managing Editor …….. ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern & Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director - PIA Caraga Region OIC Regional Director - PIA Region X

Associate Editors …… NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX

OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII ELAINE O. RATUNIL Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X

Regional Desk Editors Franklin P. Gumapon, PIA Region IX Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Copy Editor ............... Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Layout Artists ……… Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Retchie Tolinero, PIA Region X

Senior Layout Artists : Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region

Editorial Advisers :

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Philippine Information Agency

Director General

SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

Cover Story

Quench your wanderlust with the majestic Sungkilaw Falls

Mary May A. AbellonWestern Mindanao

Today’s issue... Tuesday, January 22, 2013 Vol. 2 No. 108

page 4

President Aquino welcomes ABAC representatives to Malacañang 10

Melvin T. Anggot and Virgilio C. Garcia, Northern MindanaoCity welcomes Ronda Pilipinas in Iligan 17Flood-waters spill over national highway 21 Jonah Taojo, Southern Mindanao

8IB adheres to SOMO in Bukidnon

Soccsksargen Region records 61% increase in dengue cases in 2012Danilo E. Doguiles, Central Mindanao

Philhealth, partners orient health workers on universal health careDanilo E. Doguiles, Central Mindanao

8IB/4ID/PA, Northern Mindanao

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PDRRMC bares relief assistance to ‘Pablo’ victims David M. Suyao, Caraga Region

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RAFI-KAC program supports grade school curriculum RAFI, Caraga Region

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Pag-IBIG sponsors mass wedding, gives out house and lot Jocelyn P. Alvarez, Western Mindanao

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Tuesday, January 22, 20134


The heart of Zamboanga del Norte beats in

Dipolog City: a city of breath-taking geography, which was miraculously created by the sands of time.

CoVer StoRy

As a haven of pleasure seekers, Dipolog offers a myriad of fun-filled and exhilarating activities that will surely intrigue even the most carefree tourist. For simple pleasures, one can go strolling along the immaculately clean 1.5-km Dipolog Boulevard or go nature-tripping through the verdant forests at the outskirts of the city, or go camping, trail trekking, canoeing, or simply swimming in the clear waters of Dipolog’s grey sand beaches. For more exciting adventure, one can go mountain climbing or exploring the 20 feet high Sungkilaw Waterfalls which is 25 kilometers away from the heart of Dipolog City.

Magnificence Sungkilaw Falls is a 20-foot high waterfall situated in Sitio Virginia, Barangay Diwan, the farthest barangay of the city. Such magnificence endowed with beauty so natural makes tourists adore it so much. The natural spectacle is positioned in the midst of lush forest and reaching the falls will require the adventuresome a trekking spree of approximately 400 descending steps winding along verdant trees, flora and fauna. To get there one must first take a long and jarring ride that will take you about 40 minutes from the heart of the city. You should go first to

By Mary May A. Abellon

Tuesday, January 22, 2013 5


the Integrated Bus Terminal (IBT) at Barangay Miputak, then take a bus, jeep, or truck bound for or that will pass “Diwan” or “Cogon.” Don’t forget to inform the conductor that you wish to get off at the Sungkilaw intersection. Remember be alert, keep your eyes open and watch for a sign that says: “SUNGKILAW FALLS => 14 KM.” Negotiate with your charm with the motorcycle “habal-habal” drivers parked near the waiting shed at the intersection for a ride to the falls. Don’t forget to bring with you your camera to capture all breathtaking views and moments with your friends and loved ones. The trip is so invigorating that even gives you a tremendous feeling of excitement to behold the splendid beauty of Sungkilaw falls. “This is the only tourist destination without an entrance fee. There are native crops the visitors could buy and it’s a tourist attraction where one should not miss to visit,” said Evelyn Balancar, SK Chairman of Barangay Diwan in an interview with this writer.

Once there, one can behold the gushing of waters surrounded by rock strewn cliff that thrills the carefree. You will walk across concrete steps to reach a Y-trail. The left trail will lead you to the view deck of Sungkilaw falls roughly 30 meters away. The right trail will direct you to the “mineral” well and spring where you can take a dip into the enticing cool water. However, one must have a rough walk in going to the rugged peak of


t h e falls, at the bottom of which the wondrous river lies. There are trails prepared by the city government to aid visitors in traversing the forest’s terrain. Near OISCA The Sungkilaw Falls is near the OISCA (Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement) forest park, a project of the Japanese government. So, visitors will have a great opportunity to try some challenging outdoor sports and adventures. This amazing site also offers exciting outdoor sports like rappelling, Tyrolean traverse, canoeing, or swimming is a must experience especially for the newcomer. Facilities in the area include a wide parking area, entrance hall, mushroom-shaped picnic groves,

showers and comfort rooms. A mineral spring spurts near the swimming area and the water tastes salty. Locals and folks living nearby believed that the waters have therapeutic properties. “It is a God-given spectacle. The area was being developed by the City Government to guide tourists in their trip to the magnificent falls. You will

be overwhelmed and astounded on a certain part of it that releases water and tastes salty,” the SK Chairman exclaimed. The spring is the foremost swimming area for tourists. The cool cascading water of the spring flows directly into the waterfalls. The presence of gigantic rocks makes it a perfect spot for swimming and pictorials. Waters from the falls streams down to several divisions of creeks that all ends up at Punta River at the southern part of the city. Revitalize, Invigorate and Energize with Sungkilaw Falls Legends have it that waterfalls has always been a favorite habitat of mystical spirits and creatures. Nevertheless, everybody feels relaxed and in a special mood while near them. The reason behind this spring up with the formation of negative hydrogen ions from the splitting water molecules


caused by the falling waters, water waves, or water evaporation from plants. It boosts the flow of oxygen in the brain thereby increasing your concentration, awaken your tired senses and speeding up your mental alertness. Moreover, it acts as a shield against microorganisms in the air and preventing you from gasping particles like dusts that will cause you to sneeze, cough or have a throat irritation. Remarkably, the ardent feeling of romance and passion imbued by this dazzling panorama has a direct link with our serotonin level in the bloodstream caused by the rushing waves of negative ions from the splash of the falls. It is evident that as our serotonin level increases we feel afloat about ourselves and everything around us. This will ease tension, relieve stress and treat cases of depression which can lead to symptoms like anxiety, droopiness, fear and insomnia. Serotonin plays a vital role in shaping mood, mental processes, sleeping and eating patterns, reaction to external stimuli and control of motor activity. Be aroused and stir up your ingenuity as you glide beneath the overhanging trees with the soft whispering sounds of animals moving about, the chirping of birds and the reverberation of

the babbling water as it cascades through a formation of large rocks. The alluring beauty of Sungkilaw falls and its exciting package of adventure made its way to be featured in “Weekend Getaway” of GMA 7 hosted by Drew Arellano in 2011. erily, with the irresistible charms and cool waters of Sungkilaw Falls, alongside the massive environmental projects that abound in the area, Dipolog has made its reputation as one of the eco-tourism sites suitable for a tourist or a visitor who wishes to drown himself with the serenity, greenery, and detachment from the hustles and bustles of city life.Be in love with nature! Try something new like this splendid gift of mother earth. Whether planned or a sumptuous trip with friends and loved ones, this is an amazing escapade to another astounding world of adventure. Come and feel the soothing freshness of Sungkilaw waters.

8 Tuesday, January 22, 2013

ACROSS THE NATIONFilipino community in Switzerland ready to welcome President Aquino, says Ambassador Baja

ZURICH, Switzerland) Members of the Filipino community here are proud and all set to personally welcome President Benigno S. Aquino III when he meets with them following his attendance to the annual meeting of

the World Economic Foum (WEF).

The President’s visit to Switzerland is his first since he assumed office in June 2010. He is scheduled to meet with the Filipino community at the Renaissance Hotel before he leaves

for Manila on Saturday (January 26).In an interview, Philippine

Ambassador to Switzerland Leslie Baja said the overseas Filipino workers here look forward to meeting the


President.“The Filipino community, I think,

we’re all very proud that the President is coming to Switzerland, “ he emphasized.

“Sabi nila sa akin, this is the first time daw that the Philippine President, (who is) visiting Switzerland in so many years, ay makikipagtagpo sa mga miyembro ng Filipino community,” Baja said.

“Maraming-maraming Filipino na po ang gustong mag-attend ng Filipino community meeting and they really look forward to being able to hear and see the President first hand and personally. So, maganda po ang reception at ng pagtanggap ng balita na makikipagtagpo ang ating Pangulo sa Filipino community dito sa Switzerland,” Baja stressed.

Baja also explained that President Aquino’s meeting with the Filipino community would be a good opportunity for him to oversee their condition and to brief them on the positive developments in the Philippines under his watch for the last two and a half years.

He noted that there are about more or less 10,000 Filipinos and Swiss-Filipinos in Switzerland holding dual citizenships.

“The main wave of Filipinos who came to Switzerland was in the 70s when Filupino nurses were still able to come in, “ Baja said adding that at present majority of the Filipinos working in Switzerland are nurses, some are working in Swiss multinationals, some are in Geneva serving as international civil servants and working for various international organizations among others.

Expected to join the President during his meeting with the Filipino community are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Ambassador Baja, Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad, Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Socio-economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Communications Secretary Ramon Carandang, and Ambassador Baja among others.

According to a fact sheet, as of

10 Tuesday, January 22, 2013

President Aquino welcomes ABAC representatives to Malacañang

President Benigno S. Aquino III played host to visiting representatives of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Advisory Council (ABAC) by personally welcoming

them to Malacañang Palace on Monday night.

June 2012, there were already some 10,940 Filipinos in Switzerland broken down as follows -- 6,061 permanent migrants, 1,201 children/dependents, and 3,678 workers.

By profession or occupation, 39 percent of these Filipino workers are semi-skilled (secuirty officers, hospital staff,sales, hotel workers, drivers); 37 percent are household or service staff such as housekeeper, cook and gardeners; and 13 percent are professionals working as executives,

managers, accountants, nurses and in IT companies; and 11 percent serve as employees of the United Nations.

In general, Filipino workers in Switzerland enjoy satisfactory working conditions. They are among the highest paid workers in Europe.

There are also 50 Filipino-Swiss organizations in various parts of Switzerland with five resource centers located in Berne, Zurich, Chur, Basel, and Zug aside from 15 other business entities. PND (rda)


Joining the President were Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, Communication Development and Strategic Planning Secretary Ramon Carandang, Presidential Management Staff Chief Julia Abad and Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras.

The ABAC representatives, who numbered close to 54 and represented the 21 APEC member countries, included ABAC Philippines members Doris Magsaysay Ho, Tony Tan Caktiong, Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala and Guillermo Luz.

In his welcome remarks, Almendras said the meeting showed the Philippines’ intent to be a responsible member of APEC and was appropriate as the country’s economy was on the upswing owing to the President’s reforms to improve governance through weeding out graft and corruption in

government.“The gathering we now have here

is an assurance of the Philippines’ intent to fully cooperate and be a responsible member of APEC and the global economy,” Almendras said.

“Not only is this venue ideal, but the timing is more than appropriate considering the economic prosperity the country is experiencing,” he added.

The APEC Business Advisory Council was established in November 1995 as a permanent body composed of business leaders from Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation member economies to serve as an independent voice of business within the APEC process.

ABAC’s main task is to review the progress of APEC’s work on trade and investment liberalization. PND (rck)


Development players tackle Mindanao agenda in upcoming Davao meet

International development

partners making up the country’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) agencies are set to convene here next week to discuss ways to better complement multilateral initiatives, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) announced.


Development players tackle Mindanao agenda in upcoming Davao meet

Over 300 heads and representatives of various ODA offices including some members of the diplomatic community as well as officials from national line agencies are expected to attend this year’s Mindanao Development Forum (MDF) which opens February 1 at the Marco Polo Hotel.

The MDF is a high-level multilateral meeting designed to provide the platform for dialogue and public discourse on Mindanao’s development agenda, according to MinDA which is organizing the event.

The event is expected to take on the following imperatives such as the impact of climate change and the proposed long-term measures; strengthening the foundations of peace and development under the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro; the role of Mindanao as the country’s agribusiness hub, and the attainment of Millennium Development Goals targets.

“This forum seeks to forge ahead greater convergence and better complementation among development partners in the implementation of various foreign-assisted projects in Mindanao,” MinDA chair Luwalhati Antonino said in a statement.

She added that the forthcoming meeting accords the strategic opportunity for Mindanao’s development imperatives to be highlighted and prioritized by the development partners and funding agencies.

“While Mindanao lags behind the rest of the country in terms of development, there is much that it can contribute to overall national growth when provided with substantial assistance and investment opportunities,” Antonino stressed.

She added that the MDF would be able to highlight the gains of various ODA-assisted projects in Mindanao and rally development partners around key priorities that impact highly on peace, socio-economic growth as well as rehabilitation of areas struck by recent calamities.

With a parallel objective of presenting substantial Mindanao perspective in the overall national development direction, the MDF is slated two days ahead of the annual Philippines Development Forum (PDF) which will be held in Mindanao for the first time.

Co-chaired by the World Bank (WB) and the Department of Finance (DoF), the PDF provides the venue for facilitating substantive policy dialogue


among stakeholders on the country’s development agenda. It also serves as a process for developing consensus and generating commitments among different stakeholders toward critical actionable items of the Philippine Government’s reform agenda.

The PDF forum is considered crucial in influencing the future plans and implementation strategies for ODA and is designed to help the international donor communities determine the most relevant assistance they can provide.

Participants to the event will also tackle concerns that are seen to influence the peace and development efforts including governance, ecosystems-based economy, justice, and peace and security.

“A lot of changes are happening in Mindanao’s s o c i o - e c o n o m i c d e v e l o p m e n t landscape, and we want to escalate discussions that will cater to more sectoral concerns,” Antonino said.

She added all agreements and

commitments from the MDF will be submitted to the government policy making bodies to ensure that strategic roadmap set for Mindanao is aligned with and supported by the country’s policies.

In the past, MinDA has been taking the lead in the conduct of the Mindanao Working Group (MWG), a forum developed through the PDF mechanism that specifically focused on the discussion and integration of the foreign-assisted projects in Mindanao.

MinDA is the government agency mandated to promote, coordinate and facilitate the active and extensive participation of all sectors to effect socioeconomic development of Mindanao. MinDA


LTO asks LGUs to help in campaign vs use of helmet without ICC stickerby Melvin T. Anggot and Virgilio C. Garcia

ILIGAN City -- Michael M. Macarambon, head of Enforcement Section of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) here requested local government units in their area of responsibility to issue a memorandum to their employees.

This is in regard to the use of helmet with the import commodity clearance (ICC) sticker from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). This is after the implementation of Republic Act (RA) 10054 or known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2010 or the law mandating all motorcyclists and their back riders to wear the standard protective motorcycle helmets when riding their motorcycle which was started on Jan. 7. Violators will be fined P1,500 for the first offense, P3,000 for the second offense, P5,000 for the third offense and P10,000 or the fourth and

succeeding offense and revocation of license. Macarambon hopes that this will be implemented by Mayor Lawrence Ll. Cruz to city hall employees like


8IB adheres to SOMO in Bukidnonby 8IB/4ID/PA

Lieutenant Colonel Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, Commanding Officer of 8th IB, said the Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (SOMO) was successfully observed. The unit has maintained a high degree of professionalism and vigilance all over the province which prevented the armed groups including lawless elements from perpetrating any forms of hostile actions. Cuerpo also added the SOMO provided a chance to soldiers and villagers in conflict areas to celebrate the Christmas holidays peacefully with their families and loved ones. Despite an ongoing conflict with the insurgent group, the Battalion

was not prevented from providing humanitarian assistance as it actively participated in the rescue and relief operations to typhoon Pablo-affected communities in Valencia city, Bukidnon including Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley provinces. “Your Philippine Army in Bukidnon, as part of the community, will not stop from doing collaborative efforts with other community stakeholders to take part in the lasting quest for peace and sustainable development undertakings in the whole province,” Cuerpo said.

MARAMAG, Bukidnon - The 8th Infantry (Dependable) Battalion of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army implemented the strict adherence of the 27-day ceasefire agreement between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) that took effect last December 16, 2012 and was terminated on January 15, 2013.

was done in 2008 where there was strict implementation in the wearing of safety helmet for motorcyclists. From Jan 7 - 10, he said they have apprehended 10 motorcyclists wearing helmets without the required ICC sticker.

The owner of the helmet is given 15 days to settle his obligation to the LTO. If the prescribed period had lapsed, and the obligation is not settled, the driver’s license will be suspended for 60 days.


City welcomes Ronda Pilipinas in Iliganby Melvin T. Anggot and Virgilio C. GarciaILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte - The city of Iligan warmly welcomed Ronda Pilipinas, one of the biggest cycling stage race of the country covering 2,400 kilometers (km) participated in by more than 90 cyclist passing through Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

According to Engr. Rolando Cuizon, who represented Mayor Lawrence Ll. Cruz, the city government can expect the same activity in Iligan. Residents of Iligan witnessed the arrival of high-caliber cyclists from different parts of the country in the cycling competition. The race started at 9 a.m. from Pagadian City and Stage 3 ended in Iligan through an awarding ceremony. Rudy Roque, 21, from Bataan was First Placer and won P50,000. He said he started joining Ronda Pilipinas when it started in 2011. Ronda Pilipinas is now on its third year. Roque finished the race in three hours and 17 minutes

(3:17) from Pagadian to Iligan. Second Placer was Ronald Oransa, 20, who received P25,000. Oranza is from Pangasinan and like Roque, has been with Ronda Pilipinas for three years. He clocked in at three hours and 18 minutes (3:18). Warren Davadilla of Cebu took the Third Place and pocketed P15,000. Davadilla race time is 3:18. Ricardo D. Rodriguez, race director and consultant of Ronda Pilipinas, said the sporting event is aimed in showing that most parts of Mindanao have no security problems and to showcase the beautiful tourist destinations of the country.

http://rondapilipinas.com/category/updates/content/pagnanawon-leads-visayas-qualifiers-ronda-pilipinas


DAVAO CITY-The city government gave school authorities and pri-vate firms the discretion to sus-pend classes and work, respective-ly due to the bad weather brought about by the tail-end of cold front which the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Services Administra-tion predicted to prevail up to Jan-uary 26.

E m m a n u e l Jaldon, chief of the Emergency Response Center Central 911 said the alert has been issued based on the weather advisory that the light to moderate to heavy rainfall might cause flooding and landslides which c o n s e q u e n t l y hamper the movement of

people. He said that government and private rescue groups and rubber boats are on standby to respond whenever the Davao River swells again. “The water tributaries of the Davao River are calmed so far. But we are on standby to assist stranded residents in case flooding occurs again. We do

Rescue units on standby alert as heavy flooding hits Davao


more frequent monitoring as compared to normal times,” Jaldon said. He said relief assistance and rehabilitation will be given to the affected families after the Sangguniang Panlungsod ng Dabaw in a special session Monday afternoon declared a state of calamity on 15 out of the 17 barangays affected by the flooding of Davao River last Sunday and allocated P53 Million for the relief and rehabilitation for the survivors and their property. He said the relief and rehabilitation funds were requested by the City Social Welfare and Development Office, City Agricultural Office and the City Veterinary Office. The 15 barangays comprised of Tigatto, Waan, 5-A, 9, 1-A, 74-A, 76-A, Calinan, Mandug, 19-B, 8-A, 10, 2-A, Ma-a and Lasang.In Davao region, Chief Superintendent Jaime Morente, director of the Police Regional Office XI ordered all city and provincial directors to coordinate with the local government units in their respective areas in case of any disaster due to the bad weather. He said the police in Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and Davao del Norte have been involved in disaster response since typhoon Pablo in December and up to now when bad weather occurs. “We are also monitoring the water level of river channels. We have committed members who are willing to conduct rescue operation, despite the lack the equipment,” Morente said.

He said that currently, the police rely on the equipment provided by the local and city government units and Office of Civil Defense. Tony Cloma, operations chief of the Office of Civil Defense XI said that one person died , one missing and one injured due to the current weather condition. He identified the victims as Ramon Ampong 63 of Asuncion, Davao del Norte who had gone missing since the flood occurred, Glenn Custodio 38 who died of electrocution in Tagum City and Dodong Licomes 23, who was injured in Kapalong. Cloma said that a total of 34,222 families or 123,959 persons from 65 barangays of ten towns and one city were affected by the flood due to the continuous rain. He also said that the bad weather prompted the local government units of New Bataan, Compostela Valley and Carmen, Davao del Norte to suspend classes in all levels Tuesday due to the flood. He said heavy flood affects 17 barangays in the towns of New Bataan, Nabunturan, Compostela and Montevista in Compostela Valley. Cloma said that in Davao del Norte, 27 barangays in the town of Kapalong, Carmen, New Corella, and Asuncion are underwater. He also said that the flood also occurs on seven barangays in Cateel, Davao Oriental. (PIA XI-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)


Flood-waters spill over national highway

TAGUM CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE- The three-day continuous rain due to tail-end of the cold-front since Friday evening has sent huge vol-ume of water spilling over the na-tional highway connecting Davao del Norte to Davao City. Since yesterday morning until today, portions of the national highway connecting Davao City to Davao del Norte capital city of Tagum particularly along barangays Tuganay to Guadalupe in Carmen town, are still submerged in about knee-deep flood-water, hindering

traffic flow of vehicles from northern Davao and Davao City and vice versa. Davao del Norte Provincial Disaster Risk R e d u c t i o n Management O f f i c e ( P D R R M O ) e x e c u t i v e officer Sonio S a n c h e z explained that the 36-hour c o n t i n u o u s rains of 10

millimeter to 15 millimeter per hour volume have caused major rivers Liboganon, Saug and Tuganay to overflow with surging flood-waters from upland areas. Based on Sonio’s explanation, Liboganon River which headwater is located in Sitio Patel in Kapalong winds and traverses through towns of Kapalong, Asuncion, Sto. Tomas, Braulio E. Dujali, Carmen and Tagum (upland to lowland order). Some tributary rivers are also emptying waters to LIboganon River


as it flows down to the coastline in Tagum City. Meanwhile, the Saug River is noted to head from Gupitan which is also in Kapalong town then winds and traverses through San Isidro, Laak (in Compostela Valley), Asuncion, New Corella. Waters of Saug River meet with that of the Liboganon River along Barangay Pagsabangan in Tagum City. On the other hand, the Tuganay River heads from the mountains of Paquibato (in Davao City), passing through far-flung Barangay Magwawa in Sto. Tomas, flows down to Braulio E. Dujali town and then empties to coastlines of Carmen town. Liboganon River started spilling over flood-waters in Guadalupe, Carmen Sunday night (Jan.20) at around 6:00 p.m., during which the old Miranda Bridge at the boundary of Carmen and Tagum City, was being closed to traffic (as the exit point from Tagum City going Davao City). Early Monday morning, floodwaters continued to swell and spread at the approach of the new Miranda Bridge and the level continued to rise beyond knee-deep, spreading across the national highway from barangays Guadalupe to Tuganay where Tuganay River also overflowed and spawned flood-waters to nearby

rice fields and eventually flowed through the national highway. As all flood-waters from the three major rivers of Davao del Norte are spreading across Carmen, the town has the most number of affected barangays totaled at 15 as of 5:00 p.m, Jan. 21 with the highest number of affected families monitored at 15,350. On the other hand, During the early hours of raining since last Friday, PDRMMC reported spilling of floodwaters in provincial road networks. As of 12:15 a.m. (Jan. 20), PDRRMO reported that heavy rains with moderate to strong winds hit most parts of the province resulting to flooding in various low-lying areas which made the following vital roads impassable: Barangay Sagayen, Asuncion national road going to Municipality of San Isidro at Purok 10; Purok 1, Brgy. Florida, Kapalong: Provincial Road going to barangay proper; and Brgy. Camiling, Carmen Provincial Road going to Sto. Tomas. Yesterday afternoon at around 3:30 p.m. PDRRMO monitored that the highway along barangay Pagsabangan going to Kapalong is already passable to traffic. (PIA XI/ jeanevive duron abangan flood photo by Jonah Taojo)


Teachers learn at survival campGLAN, Sarangani -- Participants of the January 17-19 Indigenous Learning Survival Camp held at Tangan Integrated School in barangay Datal Bukay learn friction fire lighting with bam-boo. The old or the dry bamboos are rubbed against each other abrasively in order to start a fire. The Quality Education for Sarangani Today (QUEST), a pilot program of the governor’s office, conducted the training participated in by representative-teachers from the different mu-nicipalities of the province. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will require candidates to submit their statements of contributions and expenditures for the 2013 Elections.

Submission of statements of contributions, expenditures, a must - Comelec

Lawyer Jay Gerada, election supervisor of South Cotabato said this new approach is being implemented by the Commission to resolve issues on campaigning prior to the designated campaign period.

“The Comelec changed strategy with respect to the approach on premature campaigning,” Gerada said. “What the commission will do is to look on the expenses of the candidates.”

Gerada was referring to Rule 8 of Comelec Resolution No. 9476, “Rules and Regulations Governing Campaign Finance and Disclosure,” in connection with the 2013 elections as promulgated on June 22, 2012.

It cites that filing of statements of contributions and expenditures should not be later than five days after the conduct of the elections, and should include all the required information and attachments.

Statements that do not conform to the prescribed form will be considered as not filed and will be subjected to the penalties prescribed by law.

“With respect to radio airtime, no guidelines are yet released but they must submit contract with the broadcasting corporation,” the election supervisor explained.

Gerada also told local media practitioners in a press conference last week that they will

gather local candidates in a forum to discuss and clarify the election policies.

The election official also clarified that tarpaulins set up by politicians greeting locals during the holiday season and recently during Koronadal City’s Hinugyaw Festival do not constitute premature campaigning.

He explained further that tarpaulins, billboards, as well as radio plugs and other information materials of political candidates cannot be considered premature campaigning unless these explicitly solicit for votes.

Per Comelec Resolution Resolution 9385 senatorial


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Dengue cases in Soccsksargen Region or Region 12 in 2012 was higher by 61 percent as compared to the number of cases in 2011, according to a year-end report from the Department of Health (DOH) 12.

candidates as well as party-list group are allowed to campaign starting February 12.

Candidates for congressional seats as well as elective regional, provincial,

city, and municipal seat will begin campaigning on March 29.

Hiring, creation, or filling up of new positions, promotion or giving of salary increases,

r e m u n e r a t i o n s or privileges are also prohibited beginning March 29. ( D E D / V G B a c a r a t /MMFontanilla-PIA12)

Soccsksargen Region records 61% increase in dengue cases in 2012By Danilo E. Doguiles

Data from the DOH 12’s Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit sent to Philippine Information Agency on Friday, indicated that the entire Soccsksargen Region had 4,325 dengue cases as of December 31, 2012.

This is 1,643 cases more compared to only 2,682 reported on December 31, 2011.

North Cotabato topped in prevalence report with 1,402 cases, followed by South Cotabato with 989, General Santos City with 913, and Cotabato City with 464 cases.

Sarangani and Sultan

Kudarat Provinces reported 324 and 243 cases, respectively.

Same report indicated that the number of deaths almost doubled in number, from 26 in 2011 to 48.

Last year’s mortality related to the disease remained highest in Gensan with 21, followed by North Cotabato with 14, South Cotabato with 7 and Sarangani with 5. One fatality was reported in Sultan Kudarat. No death was reported in Cotabato City, although it reported the highest percentage increase in dengue of 98 percent.

According to a separate report from DOH, Gensan is also the only city in the entire country which has malaria cases.

Jenelyn Ellie Ventura, information officer of DOH 12, said, health officials in the four provinces and five cities across Soccsksargen will focus on intensifying information drive to educate the public of the dangers of dengue as well as the dangers of dengue.

I n f o r m a t i o n campaigns, she added, will go down to the community level with the assistance of the


Soccsksargen Region records 61% increase in dengue cases in 2012

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato,-- Over 400 health workers in Region 112 attended an orientation and training on Universal Health Care Program (UHC).

rural health units.In South Cotabato,

provincial health officer Dr. Rogelio Aturdido Jr., emphasized what is more critical in the fight against dengue is the participation of communities in cleaning up possible breeding grounds of dengue virus-carrying mosquitoes.

“This is the reason why we have to immediately warn concerned barangay officials even with only a single case of dengue reported from

their area,” he said.He also urged parents

to be always on alert when their children are experiencing fever, and to seek medical attention, especially when fever persists for two days.

Of last year’s reported dengue cases in the Region, 40 percent were children 10 years old and below. Thirty-one percent were within age bracket over 10 years to 20 years old.

Dr. Aturdido believes that although the DOH has confirmed that total eradication of dengue fever and dengue-causing mosquitoes is almost impossible, public awareness and their unrelenting participation keeping their environment free from mosquito breeding grounds would lead to reduction of the cases of dengue in the area. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

Philhealth, partners orient health workers on universal health careBy Danilo E. Doguiles

The activities were held through partnership

among the regional offices of the Philippine

Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC) or


P h i l h e a l t h , Department of Health (DOH), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Several gatherings in Kidapawan, Koronadal and General Santos City that began on January 11 reached at least 319 eligible and newly-hired Registered Nurses for Health Enhancement and Local Service (RN HEALS) nurses.

On Wednesday some 98 midvives from all over Soccksargen met here for the same purpose.

Philhealth 12 taught the target clientele the advantages its Primary Care Benefits with free consultation, laboratory services and medicines for asthma, gastroenteritis, UTI and URTI as well as the relevance of new case rates.

P h i l h e a l t h - l e d discussions also covered their Millennium Development Goal benefits such as maternity care, newborn care, TB-DOTS, malaria and HIV-AIDS packages including animal bite treatment, leptospirosis and Z benefits that covers breast and prostate cancer treatment, children’s leukemia as well

as renal failure requiring kidney transplant at a No Balance Billing Policy especially for sponsored groups in support to the UHC.

Personnel from DSWD 12 explained how “the poorest of the poor” are identified as top priority beneficiaries for free social services.

The DOH oriented the attendees on their specific roles and functions as members of the health team.

Orientation activities are conducted to standardize the i m p l e m e n t a t i o n , monitoring and evaluation of the entire program, create network among the health workers and strengthen their capabilities as health service providers at community level.

“These health workers were specifically hired for the country’s constitutional mandate to make essential goods and social services available to all especially the poor… and they know that,” Dr. Louella Estember, South Cotabato provincial health team leader, said.

The local government units where they are assigned exercise administrative and

technical supervision over them and may provide additional monetary or non-monetary incentives like training opportunities, allowances for training, t r a n s p o r t a t i o n , communication, meals and modest board and lodging whenever necessary.

They are also assured with safety and security by the LGU on top of Philhealth and GSIS Group Personal Accident Insurance coverage provided by the DOH.

In return, said midwives and nurses must abide with their respective professional Code of Ethics, RHU Rules and Regulations and the Code of Discipline and Rules and Regulations prescribed by the project.

They must also conform and complete the learning and development plan prepared by the project, communicate with their immediate supervisors issues and concerns relative to their assignments and submit report as required, Estember said. HNaanep-


Brgy. Tiniwisan Receives Modern Agricultural Equipmentby Maria Luisa Dianah Z. Generalao

BUTUAN CITY -- Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. led the Turnover Ceremony of the Village Type Corn Postharvest Processing Center worth Php 2,997,000.00 to Saint Gabriel Multi-Purpose Cooperative represented by Punong Barangay and People’s Organization (PO) Chairperson Hon. Demetrio E. Tabelon at Brgy. Tiniwisan, Jan. 15, 2012.

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Under its GMA-Corn Program, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Unit XIII through Dir. Edna M. Mabeza, OIC-Regional Executive Director, granted Saint Gabriel Multi-Purpose Cooperative Php 2,997,000.00 for the said project, while the local government here through Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. contributed Php 200,000.00 for the installation of the transformers and electrical systems necessary for project implementation.

This project aims to support the livelihood improvement of the local farmers whilst developing ways for

the expansion of the corn industry in the region.

“Ang lokal nga panggamhanan abli sa yangungo sa inyong kooperatiba. Magtimbayayongay kita alang sa kalambuan sa natad sa pagpanguma. Tungod kay ang kalambuan sa Butuan, kaakuhan natong tanan”, was the message of Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. during the said turnover ceremony.

City Agriculturist Alberto Buca, DA Engineering Division Chief Engr. Rene Morales, PO Beneficiaries, and Brgy. Tiniwisan Officials were also present at the affair.

PDRRMC bares relief assistance to ‘Pablo’ victimsby David M. Suyao

PATIN-AY, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur -- Members of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) convened January 16 and discussed the relief goods delivered to typhoon “Pablo” victims and the added requirements for food and materials that will enable victims start normal lives.


PDRRMC bares relief assistance to ‘Pablo’ victims

According to the report of the Social Welfare chief Flordeliza Obani, the provincial government had delivered 38,000 packs of food relief goods each containing five kilos of rice, six tins of sardines, and another six sachet of noodles to 39,575 affected families since December 7, three days after Pablo ravaged the province of Agusan del Sur.

The report stated that six municipalities presented the number of families affected and the corresponding food relief goods extended.

The municipality of Veruela had 7,371 affected families and it released 350 sacks of rice, 16 cases of sardines, 30 cases noodles, five boxes coffee, and five sacks sugar.

Trento had 7,999 affected families and released the same number of family packs.

Sta. Josefa recorded 5,135 families affected and released 300 sacks of rice, 20 cases sardines, and 35 cases noodles, while Loreto had 6,381 families affected and released 500 sacks of rice.

La Paz had 4,695 families affected and were given 240 sacks of rice, 240 boxes of noodles, and 240

boxes of sardines, while Bunawan released 8,292 family packs to 7,994 affected families.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development Caraga Region had also extended help in terms of 18,460 family packs, and non-food relief goods such as nails amounting to P1,793,711, with a total amount of P4,857,379.

During the holidays, DSWD distributed 28,504 Noche Buena packs to Bunawan, Sta. Josefa, Veruela, and Trento amounting P10,255,000. Each pack contained bread, bottled juice, and canned goods to be shared by each family on Christmas eve.

World Food Program also gave 8,564 families nine kilos rice per family through the PSWD.

The Philippine Red Cross Agusan del Sur Chapter also ave food items to 5,253 families and non-food items to 635 families of Rosario, Bunawan, Trento, Sta. Josefa, Veruela, and Loreto.

Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza ordered the municipal mayors to update their assessments from time to time so that every victim could be assisted in any way by government.


RAFI-KAC program supports grade school curriculum

Kool Adventure Camp (KAC) of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) introduces the Integrated Learning through Adventure Education (iLead), the first KAC program integrated in the grade school curriculum of Sacred Heart School–Ateneo de Cebu (SHS-AdC).

The program’s pioneering group are a hundred grade 6 students of SHS-AdC last year.

iLead is an urban backpacking program that provides students the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills learned through their academic subjects.

This program also aims to hone in students leadership qualities, such as ownership

and accountability of responsibilities, initiative, and active citizenship anchored on the school’s theme, “Nurturing Ignatian Heroic Leaders.”

Students are grouped and given cards with tasks they have to accomplish. These challenges include knowing about the history of Christianity in Cebu, recycling, demonstrating the country’s traditional martial


RAFI-KAC program supports grade school curriculum

arts, and feeding a family with the minimum daily wage. They also have a chance to reach out to some orphans in Cebu.

Key areas include the Magellan’s Cross, Carbon Market, Old Jesuit House, Pari-an Drop-In Center, and the Archivals’ House Close to Nature.

“The group has very high perception and good thinking skills. They were competitive and wanted to excel given their goals and targets. The students can be very well honed to take on lead roles in tasks assigned in the school. With enough mentoring, the group can perform and deliver,” Marie Sol Gonzalvo, KAC deputy director for Youth Programs, said of the program’s participants.

This program is expected to achieve particular outcomes per subject area of the school’s curriculum. Students are expected to use verbal and writing communication skills, clearly articulate ideas and feelings, recognize the relationship between good health, good physical well-being and the natural environment.

In Math, they are expected to use basic mathematical operations through word

problems involving actual transactions.

For their Christian Life Formation subject, students should be able to trace the growth of the local Church and history of the Jesuits and its impact in Cebu.

While in Social Studies, the participants are to discover one’s role in nation building as a young citizen, to be aware and to appreciate one’s local culture, and to have a sense of pride of place.

KAC is one of the programs under RAFI’s Leadership & Citizenship focus area, where future leaders are nurtured to prepare them to take an active role in affecting change. RAFI’s other focus areas are Integrated Development, Micro-finance & Entrepreneurship, Culture & Heritage, and Education.

KAC is currently building the Philippines’ first outdoor experiential center at Barangay Cansomoroy, Balamban Cebu, which is set to open this year.

For more information about KAC, please contact 418-7234 local 407 and look for Althea May Santillan, or visit www.rafi.org.ph or www.facebook.com.ph/rafi.org.ph.


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This was disclosed by Director Cano during a recently-held press conference at Guillermo Hotel this city. Dubbed “Ulat sa Bayan : Communicating DOLE-Zamboanga del Sur Significant Milestone,” DOLE-9 officials met the local press to report the agency’s major accomplishments in 2012 and the programs to be implemented this year.

“Because of our significant accomplishments in 2012 our fund allocation for our projects has been augmented, such that our program on SPES was increased from P19 million last year to P29 million this year, an increase of P10 million,” Cano said. “Meanwhile, for our livelihood assistance program, the region will get P10.2 million from P7 million last year,” the DOLE 9 chief further

DOLE 9 gets P29-M for SPES programBy Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-9) Regional Director Sisinio B. Cano reported that Region 9 was alloted P29 million for the implementation of Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) for this year.


Pag-IBIG sponsors mass wedding, gives out house and lot By Jocelyn P. Alvarez

She said “Pag-IBIG Fund would not only sponsor the wedding reception, food, souvenirs, symbolic rings and gifts for raffle draw, but would also be giving away a house and lot as its grand prize. “A house and lot for raffle draw awaits one lucky couple,” the lady marketing chief said. Mamauag called on its member-couples to register now for the mass wedding as this is on a first-come, first-served basis. “As of today, we have already 65 couples who registered for the mass wedding, and still counting,” Mamauag informed.

Deadline for submission is on January 25. Mamauag said applicants to its mass wedding must be a Pag-IBIG Fund member, (either of the couple.) “If not yet a member, just register as a new member (Self Employed or Self Paying).” Mamauag also enumerated other requirements such as birth certificate; NSO Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) for those more than 30 years old; and Pre-Marriage Counseling certification. Mamauag said the “I do, I do, Araw ng Pag-IBIG” project is a nationwide activity.

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) or Pag-Ibig –Zamboanga City branch will sponsor a mass wedding dubbed “I do, I do, Araw ng Pag-IBIG,” set on hearts’ day- February 14 - for its member-couples who wish to be married but have no monetary means to do so, said Cora Mamauag, Chief, Marketing and Enforcement Division, Pag-IBIG.

disclosed. He said these funds will be equally distributed to the different congressional districts in the entire Zamboanga Peninsula. In terms of maintenance of industrial peace, “we are proud to say that as of today Region 9 is still a strike-free region,” Cano said, adding, “for a number of years, there was no reported incidence of stoppage of work due to strike or labor dispute,

which is a manifestation of a very good partnership with our partners especially the labor and employer sector.” Cano expressed his thanks to the labor, management sector and other partners in the government in helping sustain the status of a zero strike which was recognized by DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz.

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One Mindanao - January 22, 2013

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