One Mindanao - May 2, 2014

Feature: House of Pasalubong: El Salvador’s pride revivedSharmaine Carino and Kierra Rubillos NORTHERN MINDANAO

FRIDAY, MAY 2, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 170

Palace welcomes Philippines’ removal from U.S. Special 301 watch list

NATIONAL

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CARAGA REGION

CENTRAL MINDANAO

WESTERN MINDANAO

NORTHERN MINDANAO

All set for 1st provincial DRRM Summit in Northern Mindanao

DILG conducts feasibility study for water projects confab

DSWD-Caraga to hire 346 field staff for KC-NCDDP

Butuan City Division participates in National TOT

TESDA announces competency assessment, certification

Non-payment of obligations by electric coops hampers power supply in Mindanao, says MINDA official

Vermicomposting becomes a major livelihood of N. Cotabato farmers

Jog, walk for industrial peace mark Labor Day observance in Isabela de Basilan

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39 34

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Information to Empower Filipinos

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SOUTHERN MINDANAO

Canine hero receives heartwarming salute 19 Karen Lou Deloso

Jonas H. Jomonong

Danilo E. Doguiles

Franklin P. Gumapon

Eunice G. Montaos

Kierra M. Rubillos

Ana Celeste W. FelisildaShahana Joy E. Duerme

Rene V. Carbayas

Feature: House of Pasalubong: El Salvador’s pride revived

The sun’s raging summer heat may give us much of a burden. But for

the people of El Salvador, what it renders is hope and radiance for the rebirth of a haven that once was.

The City of El Salvador in Misamis Oriental is a major tourist destination in the province for its beaches, seafood restaurants, the well-known Shrine of Divine Mercy for Catholic devotees and the recently launched Laguindingan airport, in its neighbor town in Laguindingan expanding industrialization across the

city. However, El Salvador still gives value on ingenuity and patriotism as it re-opens its House of Pasalubong with more and better products to offer and citizens to empower. After its journey of up’s and down’s, a new daybreak for El Salvador has begun. On April 11, government leaders and officials, business personnel, producers, citizens and media men have gathered as the city again opened its House of Pasalubong with higher hopes for its success. House of Pasalubong at a glance The City of El Salvador opened the House of Pasalubong to present the products of ingenuity of their people

By Sharmaine Carino and Kierra Rubillos

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especially women. Their pasalubong specialties include home-made puto, a steamed rice cake, deliciously-cooked bibingka, a type of rice cake made with rice flour and coconut milk, suman, also a rice cake made from glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk, and often steamed wrapped in buli or buri palm (Corypha) leaves at its 15 best flavors, palitaw, a delicacy made of flattened rice batter, cashew nuts, freshly-baked cakes, healthy beverages, wines, even organic rice and hand-made accessories add to the beautiful totality of the creatively designed interiors of the building and its wonderful landscaping which do not only give an impression to the visitors but give main attraction as well. The House of Pasalubong was originally opened to the public last June 2008. This is a project owned by the city government which was envisioned to alleviate the living standards of the people by giving them additional livelihood and source of income. Native products produced by the people in the city mostly of women are still traditionally processed; these will undergo product development not just to create good packaging but also to improve the nature of the product as a

whole. Meaning, products created will no longer be distributed and sold directly. There has been struggling challenges yet with the effort held by different concerned groups, women who are nearly housewives who normally rise at two in the morning and travel to Cagayan de Oro City just to bring their products will no longer experience this. People in El Salvador are defined to be kind and humble and are doing their best to provide a kind of quality of life that is sacred and dignified. This is also why House of Pasalubong was created because aside from the fact that they are able, these people want themselves to be proud of who they are, what they are, and where they came from. Nowadays, people are easily deceived and prefer these food chains bringing expensive product names for Pasalubong rather than having native ones such as what we call “kakanins.” These are most likely forgotten. Now, through these developmental projects, we will be able to stand, rebuild and support what has been forgotten. An open house The House of Pasalubong is created in promoting Pasalubong products all over the city, the province, the nation itself or even internationally. Its grand opening on April 11 allowed the city to continue to serve the people with creative souvenirs and healthy, nutritious yet deliciously made Pasalubong food products. According to City Mayor Atty. Alfredo Q. Tan, one cannot say that a place is developing based only on its infrastructure projects but also on how a certain government focuses on giving

various privileges to farmers or creating livelihood programs that empowers women and the capability and capacity of the producers itself. This is the product of convergence and work to make an avenue where the city’s own products are displayed and sold. This will not only help families but also adds employment to the area. On Palitaw’s and triumphs Lilian Saculingan, President of the Producers and Suppliers Association of House of Pasalubong says “Nothing is hard when all members will have to work hand in hand.” “We need the courage to continue to fight all the challenges life may give and learn to appreciate what only life may offer.” This is what she kept on telling herself when there were times she felt like giving up but she never once thought that way. Lilian Saculingan is one of those hardworking women in El Salvador City. With all her might, she did and continued to do all of her responsibilities not just being a mother and at the same time working together with her husband but a good citizen as well. She and her family started selling Palitaw, a delicacy made of flattened rice batter, since 1992, but she has already been making this product since she was in high school. When her husband received his last salary after the plantation where he works stopped its operation, they have decided to start this small business. Later on, they realized that there is a greater success in selling palitaw so they continued this career.

They started making palitaw with only half a kilo. Not even once she was given a chance to borrow at least a kilo of rice and this is the hardest and saddest experience she ever told herself and all the people around the world. Despite all the hardships in life, she did not think that these would hinder in setting her goals in life but instead challenging herself unstoppably to not give up together with her family. She remained optimistic. She was able to support her children in their studies. She had an eldest son who graduated from a cruise ship course, a 4th year engineering student and a restaurant management student. Not just these, she also adopted and has been supporting her nephews and nieces who do not have parents living with them. She was so merciful, kind and humble. All these part of her success because of palitaw and saging nilusak (smashed banana). She was so full of gratitude and felt so blessed all these years. Her products are now available to purchase not only in the House of Pasalubong but also in malls like Gaisano, SM, Limketkai, Ororama and in other big stores or small canteens in Cagayan de Oro City.

Now that the House of Pasalubong has opened again, operations will be continued, products will be processed, and more mothers, all women in the city especially those who need extra income will be encouraged to participate. Saculingan says “Kaluoy sa Ginoo, ga-luto nako ko ug palitao karon, lima na ka-kilo sa usa ka-adlaw, busa makapalit na gyud ako ug bugas. Dili na gyud ako mangutang.” (By God’s grace, I am cooking Palitaw five kilos a day. So, I’ll be able to buy rice. I will no longer be in debt.) To all mothers, especially housewives, this is now the time to take action and participate to different trainings offered by the government through the association so that not only those members will have the chance to be given benefits, she said to the people. She did not forget to remain her feet on the ground after all the blessings and thanked all the people who helped in her success, the people who were there with her always giving her unending opportunities in life. “In my perspective being the president of the association, I am hoping that in the near future there will be no more mothers or wives at home who will only sit and rely to their other half’s salary, and one day if they’ll feel that they have developed their way of living, same as true to all of us women in this locality. Nothing is hard when all members will have to work hand in hand,” she said. A House well-supported The support given by the government units to the producers and suppliers of the House of Pasalubong was also a major

ingredient in its recreation. “Our house of gift and items had a long journey,” said Ann V. Prospero, City Social Welfare and Development Officer of El Salvador. Indeed, the crafting of the House of Pasalubong has undergone series of brainstorming and planning with the help of the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The suppliers and producers of the House of Pasalubong were carefully trained in aspects of product development such as business management, simple bookkeeping, simple auditing, marketing, and personality development to ensure the quality of their products in taste, packaging, procedures, marketing and even the formation of their core values. From skills training to design to packaging development, the Department of Trade and Industry – Misamis Oriental Provincial Office (DYI-MOR) is still willing to continue its rendered support to the people of El Salvador. According to the DTI Misamis Oriental Provincial Director Ma. Eliza Pabillore, they are always in support to these actions taken by the local government of El Salvador. With the efforts of the Local Government Unit of the city headed by Mayor Alfredo Q. Tan, the re-establishment of the House of Pasalubong has been well-appreciated by the DTI, even saying that it is the best yet in Misamis Oriental. However, Pabillore still aims to utilize and apply the department’s Shared Service Facility program to empower the capability and capacity of the producers and the

House of Pasalubong itself. Even Senator Bam Aquino sends his utmost support to the citizens of El Salvador, and to that of the entity of our trade and industry as well. According to his representative Benjie Navea Jr., the senator is on greater pursuits of the “GO Negosyo Program” which supports our small-scale entrepreneurs. Delightful future on city’s tourism It would no longer be surprising if later on, the House of Pasalubong would be a major addition to tourists’ “to go list” when visiting the city. Apart from its’ display center, more establishments are yet to come for its awaiting future. Among its future improvements would focus on infrastructure. “We will have to come up with a very good, quality production center. The food processing center will be based on El Salvador City which will benchmark other areas”, Prospero said. The Salvadore wine, one of the city’s finest products, has been known not just locally but even in the international grounds. Hence, it is also given attention by the project’s coordinators. “We really want that we will establish the barangay fruit winery as a production center. It would also be part of the tourist destinations”, Prospero added. The coordinators are also on the process of preparing for the registration of their products to the Food and Drugs Authority to ensure their customers’ safety. The displayed products will also undergo quality control tests for security of their buyers as suggested by the DTI.

“We are hoping that all products in the House of Pasalubong will be slowly registered to the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) creating a more improved packaging and also give trainings to suppliers in handling products for a safer consumption,” said DTI Director Pabillore. With the House of Pasalubong re-commencing in El Salvador, not just the traditional and original products of the city has been revived, but so with the skills and methods of producing these. The El Salvadorian’s, especially the women, are now given more hope and chances of attaining progress through their ingenuity and industry. As another morning begins in El Salvador, a brighter future is also on its way to be achieved by its empowered citizens, with the help of the House of Pasalubong project. As of now, our long-loved palitaws, bibingkas, sumans and other delicacies and products which were somehow left-behind have again found a new welcoming home in El Salvador city. Indeed, the House of Pasalubong, now open to serve us all, is worthy to be proud of.

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Across the NationBohol FabLab will help province recover from quake devastation, says official

“I guess it’s the resiliency, at saka iyong sipag, iyong tiyaga ng mga Boholano to really help themselves in

rebuilding what was damaged by the earthquake,” Trade Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya told reporters in

The launch of the Bohol Fabrication Laboratory (FabLab) Shared Service Facility will be a big boost to the province’s

recovery efforts, following last year’s devastating earthquake, a government official said Friday.

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Palace welcomes Philippines’ removal from U.S. Special 301 watch list

Malacañang on Wednesday welcomed the announcement made by the Office of the United States Trade

Representative (USTR), removing the Philippines from its Special 301 Watch List after consistently appearing in it for the past 20 years.

an interview in Tagbilaran on Friday.“Madali silang nakabangon at hindi sila

nawalan ng pag-asa. It’s really the drive and the culture of the Boholanos,” she said.

Most of the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are operating normally today, several months after the quake, Maglaya said, adding that 95 percent of these enterprises are already back in operation.

The FabLab is a new thing that also involves new technology in Bohol, the trade official noted.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is working with partners like the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Bohol Island State University (BISU) to achieve the objectives of the FabLab.

The DTI is opening the door to the DOST, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Department of Education

(DepEd), considering the huge potential of FabLab in Bohol, Maglaya said.

President Benigno S. Aquino III attended the launch of the FabLab in Bohol on Friday as well as the first FabLab Asian Network (FAN1) Boot Camp and Conference.

The Bohol FabLab is a technical prototyping platform for innovation and invention, providing stimulus for local entrepreneurship. It is also a platform for learning and innovation. FabLab has tie-ups with global educators, technologists, researchers and innovators from about 50 countries.

The laboratory, the first of its kind in the country, aims to help Boholanos to be competitive, especially in the creative industry sector, by providing tools and equipment for prototyping and modeling. PND

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The Special 301 Watch List is prepared annually by the USTR to track “countries that deny adequate and effective protection for intellectual property rights (IPR) or deny fair and equitable market access for persons that rely on intellectual property protection.”

In a statement, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said the USTR’s announcement recognizes the recent reforms championed by the Aquino administration, as a consequence of significant changes in IPR legislation and regulation.

“This serves as a testament to the government’s continuing commitment to uphold the rights of professionals and consumers alike, ensuring that their hard work is recognized and protected by legislation. We welcome this recognition from the USTR, along with their promise to maintain a positive engagement with the Philippines,” he said.

Lacierda added that this development “marks a significant step forward as we

harmonize our IPR protection efforts with those of other nations, never tiring in the task of safeguarding the rights of our citizens.”

“Rest assured that we will continue to strive in the same vein, as we reap even more achievements and work toward greater success,” he said.

The USTR made the announcement on Monday, two days before the scheduled release date of the Special 301 Watch List on April 30, to coincide with the state visit of US President Barack Obama to the Philippines on April 28-29.

The USTR, in coming up with the decision, cited the laudable civil and administrative gains made by Philippine authorities in IPR enforcement and protection, according to reports.

The Philippines continuously appeared on the watch list since 1994. It was one of only two countries removed by the USTR from the list this year, Israel being the other.

12MAY2014 | www.pia.gov.ph PAGE |

First Northern Mindanao provincial disaster summit setAll is set for the Northern

Mindanao provincial disaster summit starting next week to enhance the capability of stakeholders in the region’s local government units in responding to disasters, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said on Friday.

Ana C. Cañeda, OCD Regional Director and chair of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (DRRMC), said the summit is scheduled on May 5 and 6 although the venue of the summit has yet to be determined.

The summit is set on May 5 and 6 for the province of Bukidnon; May 13-14 for Misamis Occidental province and Cagayan de Oro City; May 27-28, Lanao del Norte and Iligan City; June 3-4 Misamis Oriental, and June 10-11 for Camiguin, Cañeda said.

The highlights of the summit is the presentation on the salient features of the joint memorandum circular 2014-1 (implementing guidelines for the

establishment of local DRRM offices); project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards); hydro-meteorological hazards, rain induced hazards; community-based DRRM planning; contingency planning; incident command system; disaster operations operating system; rapid damage assessment and needs analysis; post disaster needs assessment among others.

Aside from enhancing the capabilities of the DRRM of the LGUs in the region, the summit also expects to boost LGUs’ management of disaster risk reduction and disaster operations capability, Cañeda added.(PNA)


DA-10 turns over nearly P3.5 M worth of FMR to Catarman, Camiguinby Teodora D. Gadgude

CAMIGUIN PROVINCE - The Department of Agriculture - Regional Office No. 10 (DA-10) recently turned-over the Farm-to-Market-Road (FMR) amounting to P3,450,000 to the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Catarman, Camiguin under the Bottoms Up Budget (BUB) /Local Poverty Reduction Action Program (LPRAP) on March 11, 2014 to the farmers and residents of Banao-Dumilag and Phase 1 and 2 of Sto. Niño, Catarman, this province.

http://www.panoramio.com/photo/233422


The 220-meter road segment in Banao-Dumilag FMR amounting to P2,750,000 and the 130-meter road segment of Phase 1 and 2 of Sto Niño costing P700,000 has been concreted. Funded by DA-10 under BUB/LPRAP, this project is seen to make transportation of farm inputs and produce to and from the market easier, thereby ensuring quality of goods. Gracing the turn-over was Carlota S. Madriaga, Regional BUB/LPRAP Coordinator, who passed on the key of responsibility to Catarman Mayor Nestor A. Jacot and Sto. Niño. barangay Captain Gerardo Tambor. Also present during the turn-over are Engr. Isidro B. Dablo Jr., Municipal Engineer; Teodora D. Gadgude, Municipal Agriculturist of Catarman, Raul M. Buhisan, Sangguniang Bayan Member and other municipal employees. Tambor expressed his gratitude

for the FMR Project in their barangay saying “Kaniadto bisan habal-habal dili musukol paghatod kay lisod ang dalan, pulos lubak-lubak labi na kung ulan.” (Before, the modified motorcycles or sidecar taxis won’t endure accepting deliveries and passengers due to almost impassable road especially during rainy days) But now, he says they can demand higher price of their farm produce as it can be delivered easier, which maintains the quality of goods. Madriaga likewise commended the local government unit (LGU) for being the first in northern Mindanao to complete and turn-over the BUB projects for Fiscal Year 2013. The BUB/LPRAP has also allocated nearly P10 million worth of FMR Project completing the Phase 1 and 2 of Sto. Niño and Banao-Dumilag FMR for the year 2014.

All set for 1st provincial DRRM Summit in Northern Mindanaoby Kierra M. Rubillos

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Preparations are underway for the first provincial summit on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) in Northern Mindanao.

The purpose of the activity is to equip the local government units

(LGUs) about the whole spectrum of DRRM, said Ana C. Cañeda, regional


DILG conducts feasibility study for water projects confabby Ana Celeste W. Felisilda

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Office of Project Development Services (OPDS) through the Water Supply and Sanitation Unit (WSSU) will conduct an Orientation Workshop on Project Feasibility Study Preparation for water supply projects of the beneficiary municipalities of Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig sa Lahat (SALINTUBIG) program for regions 10 and 11.

The activity aims to increase the knowledge and skills of the municipal functionaries in preparing feasibility study or project proposals with the end view of providing enhanced access to potable water supply by the people in the areas.

Further, the objectives of this activity are: to orient the target local government units (LGUs) on the salient features and fundamental framework of the SALINTUBIG approach, duties and responsibilities of the LGUs in the implementation

DRRM council (RDRRMC) chairperson and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) regional director. She further said the summit aims to enhance the DRRM capabilities of LGUs of the region especially in their management of disaster risk reduction and disaster operations capability. The summit is set on: May 5 to 6 for the province of Bukidnon; May 13-14, Misamis Occidental province and Cagayan de Oro City; May 27-28, Lanao del Norte and Iligan City; June 3-4 Misamis Oriental; and June 10-11 for Camiguin.

Among the highlights are the presentation on the salient features on the joint memorandum circular 2014-1 (implementing guidelines for the establishment of local DRRM offices); project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards); hydrometeorological hazards, rain induced hazards; community-based DRRM planning; contingency planning; incident command system; disaster operations operating system; rapid damage assessment and needs analysis; post disaster needs assessment among others.


of Potable Water Supply Facilities; enhance the technical capabilities of the participants in the formulation of simplified projects feasibility study, detailed engineering design (DED), as well as in the preparation of other documentary requirements as bases for availing financial assistance for basic local infrastructures under the SALINTUBIG – Waterless Program. Resource speakers will discuss topics such as Understanding the Challenges of the Local water and sanitation (Watsan) Governance, Overview of the SALINTUBIG program and Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Planning. A total of 10 municipalities are invited from the provinces of Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte and Davao del Sur. Municipal Planning and

Development Coordinators, Municipal Engineers and Municipal Local Government Operations Officers are expected to attend the activity. Set to be held at Hotel Koresco, Lumbia Road, Cagayan de Oro City on April 28-30, 2014, the activity is in coordination with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) region 10. SALINTUBIG is a project of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Health (DOH) and the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), designed to provide water supply systems to waterless municipalities, barangays, health centers, resettlement sites. It also aims to enhance the capacity of LGUs and water service providers in the planning, implementation and operation of water supply facilities.


DavNor execs back Libuganon River master plan

DAVAO DEL NORTE – Local chief executives (LCEs) of Davao del Norte are one in supporting the formulation of an integrated mas-ter plan and the creation of a man-agement council to rehabilitate the Tagum Libuganon River Basin (TLRB).

G o v e r n o r Rodolfo del Rosario and the mayors of local government units in the province within the TLRB pledged their commitment to support initiatives that seek the betterment of the river basin. The governor said the crafting of the master plan is an opportunity for the people of the three provinces where

the Libuganon River traverses “to express our unity as one people.” Melchor Ozaraga, OIC Regional Technical Director for Forestry of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-XI said the 15-year master plan will

by Noel Baguio


serve as a crucial planning tool in the rehabilitation and sustainable management of one of the largest watersheds in the country. The TLRB is among the 18 major river basins in the country which are adopted by the Aquino administration as priority areas of government intervention. The river basin covers 306,400 hectares straddling 14 municipalities and 1 city in the provinces of Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley and Agusan del Sur. TLRB plays a central role in the economic and ecological viability of Davao del Norte since nine out of its 11 LGUs are affected by flashfloods when the Libuganon River and its tributaries swell during the onslaught of typhoons and low pressure areas. A particular LPA last January

caused massive flooding in seven LGUs of the province, affecting 43,737 i n d i v i d u a l s and damaging over P118-million worth of crops and infrastructures. As a gesture of support to the initiative, the Provincial Deve l opmen t Council (PDC) approved a r e s o l u t i o n

enjoining the LGUs of Davao del Norte to facilitate the data requirements in the formulation of the master plan, which will be completed by the end of June 2014. The respective governors of the three provinces within the TLRB are set to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 7, 2014 at the Big 8 Hotel in Tagum City. Ozaraga said the MOU is essential for the creation of the TLRB Management Council, which will be tasked to harmonize the land use plans of the LGUs affecting the river basin and to establish a working mechanism that will enhance collaborative undertakings and promote participatory management, among other functions.


Canine hero receives heartwarming salute

BAGANGA, DAVAO ORIENTAL— An army tracking dog was honored alongside other hero soldiers in an awarding ceremony at the 67th Infantry Battalion Headquarters Friday April 25 to pay tribute to their heroism in the line of duty. Mawab, a four-year-old labrador steals the crowd who gave him deafening cheers and applause as he was awarded with the Kagitingan Hall of Fame Award. Based on the citation, the canine hero exhibited excellence in his tracking performance that led to the recovery of hoards of high-powered firearms. His life-saving bravery also led to the recovery of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). While being

at the frontline at the fierce battlefields, Mawab played a critical role in the missions that led to the capture of a high-ranking member of the enemy force. With these a c c o m p l i s h m e n t s , Mawab has earned the credit of being dubbed as one of the best K9 tracking dogs of the Philippine Army. Mawab’s handler, a

sergeant of the 67th IB, who trained and took him under his wing, said he was ecstatic and delighted for Mawab to receive such honor. He said he is proud of his canine partner whom he relies on for safety, comfort, and friendship. Major General Ariel Bernardo, commanding officer of the 10th Infantry Division hailed Mawab along with other hero soldiers for their gallantry and being at the frontline to save lives. While being in the service for several years completing several missions, this canine hero is still at the frontline to help protect the community from security threats. PIO


DOST chief cites importance of ‘Iba na ang Panahon’ IEC campaign By Nora L. MoldeBUTUAN CITY - “We, at the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), believe that we can use science to better understand and improve our disaster planning and preparations at the national and local community levels,” says Secretary Mario Montejo during the “Iba na ang Panahon: Science for Safer Communities” Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign in Surigao City on April 29-30.


“‘Iba na ang Panahon: Science for Safer Communities’ Project campaign therefore, is our science-based formula in dealing with calamities: Early Warning leads to Early Action. Early Action minimizes Loss. Therefore, reduced amount of loss leads to Early Recovery,” Montejo said.

Montejo said that based on the lessons of typhoon Yolanda, “we have come up with a 4-point agenda to Guide Community Disaster Preparedness, these include: Increase local risk knowledge; Capacitate hazards monitoring; Test warning and communications protocol; and Build response capability in communities.”

The campaign slogan, according to Montejo bears two meanings. One deals with the changes in our seasonal climate and weather patterns, with weather disturbances coming in more frequently and with great intensity -- a possible effect of climate change. “This is why Ondoy, Pepeng, Sendong, Reming, and what would otherwise be a harmless Habagat happened one after the other,” he added.

“ T h e o t h e r c h a n g e s p e a k s of new a v a i l a b l e tools such as the latest high-reso lut ion m a p s and flood m o d e l i n g s o l u t i o n s

that allow our scientists to study hazards and bring better forecast warnings which give ample lead time for the community folks to take the necessary action,” Montejo said.

Through these new tools, we also hope to raise your awareness and understanding as local chief executives, disaster managers, partner civil society organizations, and even the local community media on these hazards. And introduce NEW tools that can be used for community disaster preparedness hinged on the 4-pt agenda to guide Community-based Disaster Preparedness mentioned previously,” Montejo bared.

DOST’s “Iba na ang Panahon” is a two-pronged slogan that means: 1) Time (“panahon”) has changed (“Iba na”), so let’s move on from antiquated “tools” to S&T-based information and tools in designing disaster preparedness plans; and 2) Climate (“panahon”) change (“iba”) compels us to be more prepared for hazards to make our communities safer.


DSWD-Caraga to hire 346 field staff for KC-NCDDPBUTUAN CITY-- Three hundred forty-six (346) field workers are needed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga for the on-board of the Kalahi-CIDSS-National Community Driven Development Program (KC-NCDDP).

By Eunice G. Montaos

With the 46 municipalities in the region which are identified to be covered by the Program, many workers are needed to suffice the workforce required for the implementation.

Regional Director Minda B. Brigoli already announced that despite the presence of the existing Kalahi-CIDSS staff in the office, still it will need more workers since the Program will have a broader scope.

Assistant Regional Director Mita G. Lim pronounced that the Office will hire 39 Area Coordinators, 44 Deputy Area Coordinators, 49 Finance Analysts and 214 Community Facilitators in the region.

Interested and qualified applicants for the said positions are invited to

submit their application letters and resumes at the Records section of DSWD FO Caraga, Pili Drive Ext., Butuan City or at [email protected].

The deadline for submission of applications is on May 2, 2014.

The NCDDP is the scale-up program of the Kalahi-CIDSS project, one of the core anti-poverty alleviation programs of DSWD. With its participatory, transparency and accountability principles, the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach used by the Project is proven to be an effective strategy in advancing development in local communities.

KC-NCDDP is set to commence in May 2014 in the region.


Butuan City Division participates in National TOTBUTUAN CITY-- In response to the Department of Education’s (DepEd’s) call in the progressive implementation of the K-12 curriculum, the city division participated in the 2014 National Training of Trainers (TOT) held at Lahug, Cebu City starting April 27 to May 3 for the Visayas and Mindanao group.

By Dr. Jonas H. Jomonong

The said training aims to provide teacher-trainers with a concrete understanding of the Grade three Curriculum frameworks, learning standards and competencies, assessment and teaching plans.

Also, the TOT will provide participants with opportunities to acquire and demonstrate the cognitive and affective competencies needed by the Grade three teachers in the effective delivery of the curriculum and in their role as facilitators of learning as indicated in the DepEd Memorandum No. 15, series of 2014 dated February 7, 2014.

It is hoped that after the said training, a mass training of grade three teachers throughout the division will be conducted this month as a preparation for the school year 2014-2015.

The pool of trainers of the division was led by Education EPS-1 in English Dr. Maria Dinah abalos, together with her were the chosen school heads from various schools namely: Dr Alejandro macadatar, Dr. Jonas Jomonong, Dr. Marivic Cuizon, Mr. Rey Collado, Robina Agan, Marivic Pantonial, April Ann Bernabe, and Richard Duparco.

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


GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The Regional Tourism Council (RTC) 12 is con-tinuously making efforts to step up the promotion of tourism industry in the region.

Regional Tourism Council 12 steps up promotion of tourism in the regionBy: Catherine T. Apelacio


Michelle Lopez-Solon, RTC-12 chair revealed that the council along with the Department of Tourism (DOT) 12 has been visiting different regions in the country to promote various tours and products inspired by the belief that “the best is actually here in Region 12.”

She said the region is being tagged as “The 12th Paradise,” the area’s tourism tag, citing that there are twelve reasons or even over a thousand reasons to visit Region 12.

The region otherwise known as SOCCSKSARGEN comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani and the cities of Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan , Cotabato and General Santos.

General Santos City as the region’s entry point offers a great deal of superb destinations like beach resorts, parks and other tourism-related activities like snorkeling, mountain climbing, among others.

“As tourists enter General Santos City, they can savor the yummy taste of fresh tuna and other leading fishes and delicacies available,” Solon said.

Some of the popular tourist destinations in Region 12 include the white beaches in Gumasa, Glan, Sarangani; Lake Sebu in South Cotabato; Asik-asik Falls in Alamada, North Cotabato; and the Baras Bird Sanctuary in Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat.

In addition, Solon said tourists who love to study people and their culture may also want to get exposed to the culture and life practices of Indigenous People living in the region

which includes the Blaan, Tagakaolo, Tboli, Manobo, Ubo, Kalagan and the Maguindanaons.

The Lamlifew Village, a hinterland community of Blaan in Sitio Lamlifew, Datal Tampal, Malungon, Sarangani has able to preserve its roots making the Blaan cultures and heritage so intensely rich.

This community also houses the School of Living Tradition featuring a Village Museum which showcases century old women’s accessories such as bangles, anklets, head dresses, brass belts, shoulder tussles to include pieces of traditional clothing, knives, and gongs.

Recently, the DOT 12 conducted a weeklong expedition called “Luring Iloilo/ Bacolod to 12th Paradise” to promote Region 12’s finest to other areas.

Solon described the undertaking as “selling mission and travel exhibit” in the Western Visayas, which was spearheaded by Nelly Dillera, regional director of DOT-12.

The trip also brought them to places in Region 6 with the intention to touch base with the roots of Ilonggos and see local destinations, products, services, and culture.

According to Solon, the team was able to introduce and showcase Region 12’s finest destinations, products, and services including cultures and heritage of diverse people in the area.

She was also happy to note the opening of Cebu Pacific direct flight from Iloilo- GenSan and vice versa, which schedules are four times a week.


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in SOCCSKSARGEN Region based here announced Tuesday the agency has scheduled the conduct of free compe-tency assessment and certification starting May.

The tourism chair said that this has been a welcome development as it means increased number of tourists coming from that region. “And we are looking forward to make it daily to better serve tourists coming from Region 6,” Solon enthused.

Moreover, she urged the people in Region 12 to explore first their own native place before taking themselves anywhere else in the country or abroad.

She explained that when more people get to see the beauty of nature in their own area, the more they are going to appreciate and take care of

their surroundings and more so the “wealth of wonders” before them, thus helping the government preserve and protect the environment.

Dillera, on the other hand, emphasized that promoting tourism is not actually expensive as anyone can promote it saying further, “You don’t have to be Ms. Tourism to promote Region 12’s best offers; everybody should take part in pushing and boosting the tourism industry in their respective area.” (CT Apelacio with Lipsy Grace Carayo/PIA-12 General Santos City)

TESDA announces competency assessment, certificationBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

TESDA12 regional director Zeus Ampuyas, told Philippine Information Agency that will hold four sets of assessment and certification activities in line with the National TVET Competency Assessment and Certification (NATCAC) Program beginning May until October.

Targeted in the 4th installment of the NATCAC , Ampuyas added, are trainers of private and public Technical Vocational Institutions (TVIs), local government units

(LGUs) and other government agencies providing TVET programs and private enterprises with registered TVET program.

The same is also open to Department of Education trainers, public utility vehicle drivers, workers/industry practitioners/professionals/career shifters, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), Filipino expatriates with relevant experience , and industry practitioners who are prospective competency assessors.


Started in 2011, the NATCAC aims to expand client access to assessment and certification program as well as enhance the competitiveness, employability and productivity of workers among others.

This year’s NATCAC focuses on 11 sectors which are identified as among the key employment generators in the country, namely: automotive; land transport, and heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC); construction; metals and engineering; tourism; electronics; ICT; agri-fishery; food processing; and health, social, and other community development services (HSCDS).

Ampuyas, noted, however, that regional and provincial TESDA may conduct assessment for other sectors and qualifications based on the market demands in their respective areas except massage therapy, household services, caregiving, and maritime qualifications.

This activity is being funded by the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) of TESDA, he added.

This year, Ampuyas said, TESDA 12 has been allotted a target of 2,741 qualified individuals to undergo free competency assessment and

certification for SOCCSKSARGEN Region. Throughout the country, TESDA aims at serving at least 60,000 individuals.

Per TESDA Circular No. 09 series of 2014 the NATCAC competency assessment and certification per sector will be conductes as follows:

May 12 – 23, 2014 for automotive, land transportation and heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning

July 14 – 25, 2014 for construction and metals and engineering

August 11 – 22, 2014 for tourism, electronics, and ICT

October 13 – 24, 2014 for agri-fishery, food processing, and health, social, and other community development services.

Interested applicants may secure application form and list of requirements for assessment from the accredited assessment centers identified in the Regional Qualification Map or the nearest TESDA Provincial Offices.

Application form and the Self -Assessment Guide may also be downloaded from the TESDA website www.tesda.gov.ph. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12 with report from RMPalencia- TESDA 12)


MATALAM, North Cotabato — Vermicomposting has recently become a major source of income for farmers in Barangay Kibudoc, Matalam as they are now producing and selling tons of vermicompost only barely a year of full operation.

Vermicomposting becomes a major livelihood of N. Cotabato farmersBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

The vermicomposting porject which funded with P400,000 from the Min-danao Rural Development Program, the Department of Agriculture and the provincial government of North Cota-bato is being managed by the Prolife Farming and Livelihood Association, Inc. (PFLAI).

Lorde Magoncia, president of PFLAI said they initially started producing vermicompost in 2012 with only 25 kilograms of vermiworms.

“It gradually grew in terms of pro-duction. Last year, the PFLAI has de-veloped and eventually increased its production to hundreds of kilos of vermicompost placed in vermin beds,” Magoncia noted.

She disclosed that at present, they have already produced around six tons of vermicompost.

“PFLAI sells vermicompost at a price of P250 per sack while vermi-worms or the African night crawler is sold for P500 per kilo,” the PFLAI president stated.

Magoncia explained that they now have local and national buyers coming from different towns in North Cotaba-to and provinces in the Soccsksargen

region as well as from the Visayas and Luzon.

Meanwhile, during the field visit at the vermicast site, Governor Em-mylou Mendoza was impressed by the development and growth of the association and was thankful that the project is very useful especially to the farmers.

The governor encouraged the mem-bers of the PFLAI to let the provin-cial government know what are other ways they could help the association.

Vermicompost is the product or process of composting using various worms, usually red wigglers, white worms, and other earthworms to cre-ate a heterogeneous mixture of de-composing vegetable or food waste, bedding materials, and vermicast. It contains water-soluble nutrients and is an excellent, nutrient-rich organic fertilizer and soil conditioner.

Vermicast, on the other hand, is also called worm castings, worm hu-mus or worm manure. It is the end-product of the breakdown of organic matter by an earthworm. (SJDuerme-PIA12/JSta.Cruz-N. Cotabato Provin-cial Government)


Media tour showcases impact of gov’t agencies’ convergence in Sibuco townBy Dominic I. Sanchez

SIBUCO, ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE - A team of journalists and government information officers covering the different areas in the region were in Sibuco municipality in Zamboanga del Norte on April 28-29 to observe how a convergent, inter-agency partnership initiative had been implemented there, and how this initiative can possibly propel a developing municipality into an agriculturally-competitive town very soon.


The group visited two communities there that are recipients of the Convergence Initiative and Partnership for Poverty Reduction (CIPPR), which is being spearheaded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The CIPPR is an inter-agency approach to addressing poverty in Sibuco and twelve other poor municipalities in the region. Basically, through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) National Greening Program (NGP), several hectares of land were identified to be cultivated as rubber and abaca plantations by beneficiaries of the DSWD’s Pantawid Pamilya. Seedlings and trainings were provided by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), as well as the local government. Upon reaching maturity, the abaca and rubber trees will be “money baskets,” ensuring the beneficiaries of sustainable income for years to come. According to Elizabeth Dy, a senior social welfare official from DSWD Field Office IX, the CIPPR was borne out of the savings from the 2011 Cash for Work Program for Farmers and Fisherfolks. “The program had a savings amounting to Php16-Million. This was divided among the 13 municipalities with one to two million shares each. The amount was used as ‘cash-


for-work’ where beneficiaries planted their own seedlings in identified lots, and got paid for their labor,” Dy explained. “It was an initiative of former regional director and now Assistant Secretary Ted Romo that this convergence initiative was put into motion.” According to Dy, DSWD Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman is closely monitoring the CIPPR, and plans for it to be replicated in the other regions. Going back to early 2011, Sibuco town mayor Norbideirri Edding met with Asec. Romo in Zamboanga City to discuss possible programs to help his Pantawid Pamilya constituents earn a livelihood that is feasibly sustainable. “We conceptualized this idea through a simple meeting over coffee and biscuits. Little did we realize that this was to be a pet project that would have great potential to alleviate poverty and promote local agriculture,” he told journalists at the tour. In 2012, the initiative was put into motion. Beneficiaries started planting the trees. After one year, realizing the project’s potential, other actors such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) came into the picture. DTI has already provided the town with six spindle machines to process abaca, making them ready for shipment. The demand now for abaca,


as well as the constant demand for rubber is high after typhoon Yolanda devastated much of Southern Visayas, the country’s top supplier. Mayor Edding sees this as an opportunity to raise the bar for abaca and rubber production, aiming to be one of the top suppliers nationwide. “We still have a lot of things to do, and we need a lot of things to do to be able to market Sibuco’s agricultural potential – and we are very much aggressive in this matter,” shared Mayor Edding to the media tour delegation. The town still needs

farm to market roads, shared service facilities, post-harvest facilities, a variety of trainings on organic farming methods, among others. This would involve a lot of money, which the municipality does not have at its disposal. “We are hoping that through this tour, the public’s eyes will be opened. Sibuco has great potential; but in order to realize this potential, we need all the help we can get – from national government agencies to investors, and especially from the media,” said Mayor Edding.

Sibuco municipal mayor Norbideirri Edding requested the media to share only good stories borne out of the implementation of the Convergence Initiative and Partnership for Poverty Reduction (CIPPR), but also to market their municipality’s potential in agriculture and tourism.


Non-payment of obligations by electric coops hampers power supply in Mindanao, says MINDA official By Franklin P. Gumapon

DAVAO CITY – As Mindanao is currently facing power supply problem, this bleak situation has been exacerbated by the delinquency of some electric cooperatives in paying their obligations to the power suppliers. This was one of the issues cited by Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro III of the Mindanao Development Authority (MINDA) when he spoke on Mindanao’s power situation during the 9th media summit on climate change held here recently. Although he did not mention the electric cooperatives heavily indebted to power suppliers, Montenegro said that most of them are in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). “One of them has P6 billion in debts,” he disclosed. “Since the power supplier, by law, cannot just cut the supply for these cooperatives despite their huge debts, their power allocation is instead reduced. That explains why they have longer brownouts.” On the other hand, Montenegro said “the power situation in Mindanao is expected to improve only until 2015 when committed projects come on stream.” He, however, expressed hope that the 500-megawatt power demand in

the island will be met by 2016. “Because of high demand (for electricity) in Mindanao, several investors are set to come,” Montenegro added. In addition to hydropower plants, coal and diesel power plants will also be built to address the power problem in the area, the MINDA official stressed. For now Mindanaoans are left with no other option but to bear with the daily rotating brownouts.


This was the highlight of the 112th Labor Day celebration on May 1 where some 400 workers from private sectors gathered at Plaza Rizal to participate in the activity running and walking at a 4 km distance around the city proper. Eng. Wesley Tan, labor chief of Isabela City Field Office said that this year’s celebration is a four-in-one activity, highlighted by a jog-walk, which aims to foster creative harmonious labor-management relations. “Together, we jog-walk in harmony to create improved labor-management relations, that there is fairness, harmony, and unity between labor and management, together with government; this is what we want, right,” Tan said in his

message. “Let us also show the world that we can go out early morning in Basilan as a community and for the common good, to promote wellness and healthy lifestyle,” he added. Some thirty-three companies and business establishments, mostly from the private sector participated in the event. At the program, selected business establishments, together with the Isabela City Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (ICTIPC) gave due recognition to outstanding employees. Thirteen workers in the private sector were given Outstanding Performance Award by the ICTIPC, namely: Jemar Caberte (D’Biel Co. Inc), John John G. Dela Cruz (Rosie’s Pharmacy), Joe Mari Basilio

Jog, walk for industrial peace mark Labor Day observance in Isabela de BasilanISABELA CITY, Basilan – Hundreds of runners, mostly workers and employees from the private sector, joined in the Jog-walk for Industrial Peace Year 3 in Isabela City, Basilan on Labor Day.

By Rene V. Carbayas


Jog, walk for industrial peace mark Labor Day observance in Isabela de Basilan

(Basilan Sales Marketing), Enelyn Enriquez (Tin Juan Merchandising), Allan Cratis G. Santillan (ISALAMA Ind. Inc.), Marilyn Abdurahim (Basilan Shopping Center), Jovito P. Vidad (Basilan Community Hospital Inc.), Cenonita M. Semblante (New Mabuhay Trading), Joel Tan Sanchez (Aguada Fishermen Association), Jesus Lobitana (ATS PTS Cargo Handling), Randell Morales (Claret College of Isabela), Leonard Sacuah (Jeeper’s Copy Center), and Dionisio B. Fransco (Lanote General Builders Hardware). Door prizes were also given away during the program where a total of 145 packs of goodies and grocery items worth Php200.00/pack were raffled to the participants. The prizes were courtesy of the ICTIPC, with the support of private establishments, LGU-Isabela City and the Provincial Governor’s Office.

Moreover, sixty informal sector beneficiaries also received their Kabuhayan Starter Kits from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) worth P453,230.50, which consist of equipment, tools, and jigs for 40 food and native snacks preparation, 9 for sewing, 1 for cosmetology, 6 for carpentry, 1 for electrical, and 3 for gardening and hollow-block making. After the program, some fifty beneficiaries of DOLE’s Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) conducted a clean-up drive at the city grandstand, which resulted to the collection of some 20 sacks of plastic garbage. The theme for this year’s 112th Labor Day celebration is, “Sa Sipag, Tiyaga at Talino, Buong Mundo Saludo sa Manggagawang Pilipino.

One Mindanao - May 2, 2014

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