 |
|
| |||||
| since 2005apr: 145817 visitors | Manila, Philippines - Saturday, 13 March 2010
|
| | ||||
Philippine Information Agency
| Home | About US | Information Centers | Projects & Activities | Affiliations & Organizations | Correspondents |
 Members Only   |
Summit PIA-MMIO/LAGUNA NOVEMBER 6, 2006 INFORMAL SECTOR SUMMIT TO BE HELD Calamba City – The Regional Sub-Committee on the Informal Sector (RSCIS) of CALABARZON with the Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office IV-A (DOLE IV-A) as a lead agency headed by Regional Director Ricardo S. Martinez, Sr., will conduct “Regional Summit for the Informal Sector” which will be held at the Coconut Palace Resort in San Pablo City on December 5, 2006. Generally, the objective of the summit is to increase awareness of different stakeholders on the programs and services for the informal sector. Specifically, the activity aims to: 1) forge an agreement with various stakeholders for the effective and efficient delivery of IS programs and services; 2) solicit commitments from LGUs to support the IS program implementation particularly in the establishment of IS desks in CALABARZON; and 3) solicit commitments from private sectors supporting the IS program implementation. The summit shall make use of lectures to be conducted by selected persons which are expected to provide insights about the IS, specifically defining the sector and identifying the issues and concerns hampering it. There will be presentation of the IS Best Practices which will explain how LGUs and National/Regional Line Agencies (NRLAs) can implement programs and services for the IS. There will also be a mini bazaar and exhibit during the Summit which will be put up by the people from the informal sector themselves. The Philhealth and Social Security System (SSS) are requested to have their own respective booth during the event to answer inquiries of the IS and to accommodate new enrollees. The one-day summit is expected to draw in more than 200 participants from various LGUs and NGOs./pia-laguna/alorti ATOP October 10, 2006 Provincial Tourism Officer bags award CULTURAL CENTER, Laguna – Governor Teresita “Ningning” S. Lazaro joins Board Members Eufemio Lagumbay, Benedicto Palacol and heads of offices in congratulating Ms. Gina B. Austria, Laguna Provincial Tourism Officer, for having won the award as the Most Outstanding Tourism Officer of the Phils. during the weekly flag-raising ceremony held at the Cultural Center of Laguna. Gov. Lazaro took the opportunity to liven up everybody’s down spirit brought about by the devastating Typhoon Milenyo by stating that another “first” has been added to Laguna’s pride. “The award once again proves that Laguna is always leading the way, Laguna, Laging Una,’’ she quips. Ms. Austria, the first recipient of the award organized by the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) in coordination with the Department of Tourism (DOT), bested all provincial tourism officers nationwide held in Koronadal, South Cotabato City on October 6, 2006 with no less than DOT Sec. Joseph “Ace” Durano, South Cotabato City Gov. Daisy P. Avence-Fuentes and ATOP President Dea I Que as award presentors. In her short message, Ms. Austria thanked Governor Lazaro for the support and trust given her by the governor in heading her office. Local Butchers will soon land a job in Australia and Canada Lucena City -Lucena City Mayor Ramon Y. Talaga ,Jr. says there is a strong possiblity that butchers here in Lucena City will have a chance to work in Australia and Canada when the city government and the Quezon National Agricultural School(QNAS)/Technical Educational Skills development Authority(TESDA) sign a memorandum of Agreement allowing butchers in slaughterhouses here to work there. Butchering is one of those jobs identify during a recent National Manpower Summit held last March 2,2006 here as a critical occupation in agribusiness sector and has potential employment opportunity based on request by Teddy Gatchalian ,School Superintendent of QNAS/TESDA. The Sangguniang Panglunsod only need to passed a resolution so that the butchers will have to undergo trainings provided by TESDA on modern slaughtering systems or methods which the two mentioned countries have. Mayor Talaga says that with the launching of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Training for Work Scholarship Project(PGMA-TWSP) , it will served as direct conduit for immediate employment of said workers. TESDA on the other hand will supervised the training of the butchers and recommend them for work in the two countries if and when these butchers have acquired proficiency in moderm methods in the slaughtering business.(PIA-Quezon/junmendoza,Source -Danny Estacio-Balita Correspondent) PGMAs project has enough funds-Cong. Suarez 3rd Dist., Quezon Province- "There is enough money to fund all these projects", remarked Cong. Suarez regarding the "super projects" that Pres. GMA promised on her SONA. As chairman of oversight Committee, Suarez said that he had monitored all revenues that went to the coffers of the government as well as it expenditures. And judging from the increase on the revenue collection, he is certain that the government has fund to finance infrastructure projects. According to Suarez, the super project of PGMA mentioned on her SONA is not new, because it formed part of her 10 pt. Agenda that she wants to implement unto her last term. The desire of the president to spur the economy through massive infrastructure project can only be accomplished if basic infra project like nautical highway and development of maritime industry will first be implemented. "This is the only time that the government has money because the fiscal revenue has proven effective. Now the president can spend the money", added Suarez. Quezon province he says has played a vital role in the formulation of the fiscal reforms which is now turning into reality. Cong. Suarez was among those directed by the president to formulate basic parameters on the issue pertaining to generation of revenues that will help to uplift the economy of the Philippines which he said was the prime objective of the president in maintaining a balanced budget." The government must have surplus, meaning the income should be greater than the expenditures" he further said. As a legislator,Suarez says that they have duty to know how the government is spending the money. A dreamt development is unlikely when expenditures surpasses that of the generated income of the country. Suarez admitted that he favored amendments to the constitution through charter change. He noted that former leader of this country were not able to beautify the economy of the land . The problem with the 1987 constitution he says is the tour of duty of elected officials which is a 3 year term. He wants it change because it is "unproductive,counter productive and anti-progress". Aside from these, the evolution of Philippine economy since its participation in the WTO must be altered. Unlike other countries whose basic parameters are in conformity with the WTO as against the Philippines. The congressman is confidence that anyday from now, the peso will bounce against the dollars which will contribute much to the economy of the country.(Source-Ves Villanueva) prepared by junmendoza-PIA -Quezon) SOLCOM chief vows to protect journalists Lucena City – The newly installed commander of the Southern Luzon Command(SOLCOM) ,Major General Alexander B. Yano , has vowed to protect and support the welfare of journalists working within his area of responsibility. He made this assurance when he visited recently the office of the Camp Nakar Press Corps(CNPC), a group of national and local correspondents from print and broadcast media in this city. During the visit , General Yano assured that under his leadership, working journalists can expect his fullest support and protection within his capacity as SOLCOM chief. He said he fully understands the rule and significance of media in the community and promised to respect its existence. SOLCOM spokesman Major Jose Broso, who was with Yano during his visit, said his boss has been very friendly with the media because the latter also held the positions of Armed Forces spokesman and commanding general of AFP's Civil Relations Service for a long period. CNPC President Gemi Formaran, who is also the Journal Group correspondent for Quezon, acknowledged the gesture of support shown by the new SOLCOM Commander. The CNPC holds office at the 2nd Floor of the Pajarillo &Delfin Bldg.,located near the Lucena City Hall building.(PIA-Quezon,junmendoza) DENR launched Green Philippine Highways Project in Lucban,Quezon The project was aimed at greening the shoulder of the national roads not only in the Calabarzon area but the whole country as well with different species of flowering and non-flowering plants through the participation of the different agencies of the government,NGOs,People's Organizations,students,LGUs,religious groups and other civic organizations . Mr. Francisco S. Bravo ,Usec and Chief of Staff of DENR ,remarked during the presentation of the Green Philippine Highway Project held at the SLPC-Lucban that the project was conceived when an article in an issue of Time Magazine reported that the Philippines ranked second in Asia with the dirtiest air or pollution air . It was learned from DENR that 70% of pollution comes from the smoke emitted by vehicles and 30% from industrial or manufacturing fumes.DENR also reported that there are about 5 million registered vehicles in the country today. Henceforth, the DENR under Sec. Reyes is determine to clean the polluted air in this country, most especially in the Metro Manila area. Reyes stressed that planting different species of trees in portions near the highways is one way to solve the problem of air pollution because it absorbed air pollutants ."The project not only aim to beautifies main thoroughfares , but the trees will also served as sheds for folks awaiting for vehicle especially during hot season", Reyes further said. Relative to this, the DENR will conduct on August 25,2006 the nationwide planting of trees at all designated area main thoroughfares of the country. Participation from all local government ,students,media,NGOs,NGAs and other organization are highly expected. PIA Infocen Manager , Lito Giron and Angelo Forneste participated and took video footages of the said activity and was aired at PIA Talakayan program in a local TV station here(STV6-Lucena) last Aug. 12 . The program can also be watched at STV6 affiliates in the municipalities of Tayabas and Pagbilao . (PIA-Quezon/junm) RCLUD and RCSPK provides Lucen Elem School thru Matching Grant No. 58359 Rotary Club of Lucena District and RC South Pyungtaek,Korea provided Lucena East VII Elem. School with Matching Grant No. 58359 Lucena City - The Rotary Club of Lucena University District (RCLUD) and the Rotary Club of South Pyungtaek, Korea (RCSPK) donated 3 computer sets, 4 sewing machines, books , sports equipment and other school accessories to the 'special children' of the Lucena East VII Elementary School last August 3,2006 as part of their program called Matching Grant No.58359, a special project for special children. In a simple program conducted at the said school, Mrs. Gloria Ramallosa says the equipment is of great value and joy to the mentally challenged children(special children). "Whatever the social standing of the children are, we 'll show them how much we really care for them.",she further said. Mr. Edwin Menor, PTA Pres. of the school who himself has a special child enrolled at the said school expressed his profound gratitude to the RCLUD and RCSPK for the assistance they extended to the school. RCLUD President Imee Tumacder meanwhile announced that other schools in the city could avail the said equipment it they may want too. Distribution of canned milk for the school children and signing of the Grant Agreement between the Rotary Club of Lucena University and the Lucena East VII Elementary School led by Mrs. Lydia Aranas,School Principal , completes the day's program .Ruel Orinday of PIA-Quezon participated in the activity.(PIA-Quezon/jmendoza II) Alcala promises not to sign in the impeachment case of PGMA A year after some of the opposition in the lower house who voted no in junking impeachment case complaint against President Gloria -Macapagal-Arroyo, Quezon 1st Dist. Congressman Procy J. Alcala revealed that he will no longer go with any Quezon congressmen who will not give a chance for the president of this country in her sincere effort to alter the future of every Filipinos. The 2nd District congressman admitted the enormous change during the leadership of PGMA in the imp,ementation of development program and livelihood in the different provinces of the country. Alcala further said that the elimination of corruption and the maintenance of peace and order are signs that Filipinos have changed .If he was among those who favor in the impeachment of the president then ,he now urges the other solons here to join him and 3rd Dist. Congressman Danny Suarez in supporting the president as he believed that no one from the opposition could possibly fill in ,in case PGMA was impeached . Alcala noted that the opposition , in their long wranglings, has not reached a decision as to who among them will fill in the seat of PGMA It will be remembered here that only 3rd Dis.Rep. Danny Suarez have voted yes in junking the impeachment case agaisnt PGMA . (Source : Quezon Patrol-August 7-13,2006) PIA-Quezon/JunM. Mauban Residents supports Campaign Against Illegal logging Llaneta commended the recent confiscation of about 40 pieces of narra flitches at Brgy. San Jose this municipality last August 1 . Allegedly owned by a certain "Iko",the confiscated pieces of lumber has a total measurement of 1,355 board feet and valued at about P 121,950 . It was believed to have originated from the province of Isabela and was just 'dropped' to Mauban . Based on report, the illegally cut lumbers were found by police authorities near a seashore , abandoned by the owner who sensed local residents reported it to the police station. The Tanggol Kalikasan- Quezon Chapter ,together with some local media practitioners in this province rushed to the area for further information on the confiscation case. PIA Lito Giron and Angelo Forneste were among the mediamen to assist the TK group,taking video footages and news report. According to Janet Geneblazo,Information Officer of TK -Quezon , their office focuses on providing information and education on the ill-effects of environmental abuses. Relative to this, Police Supt. Llaneta was proud of his constituents for their alertfullness in helping them curb illegal activities such as this. The confiscated lumbers are now under the supervision of the local DENR office here.(PIA-Quezon/jun m.) AFPRESCOM conducts Free Medical and Dental Mission in Mulanay,Quezon The humanitarian assistance benefitted some 2,122 beneficiaries , broken as follows; 867 medical patients, 273 dental extraction, 15 surgical , 628 eye check-up and glass distribution , 21 reflexology , 318 deworming and free haircut. Among the 50 professional volunteer doctors from AFPRESCOM includes Dr. Floro V. Corranes,Dr. Atienza and Dr. Ruiz , all reservists and headed by Col. Eduardo L. Lacanieta PM (Res) MNSA GSC JSC,Commanding Officer of the 4th GHQ Technical Batallion,Technical Service Brigade,AFPRESCOM. The activity was personally attended by the newly installed commander of SOLCOM in the person of Maj.Gen. Alexander B. Yano ,AFP together with his able staff. Col. Romeo D. Lustestica (GSC) PA,201st Infantry Brigade commander and LTC Amado A. Bustillos(GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of 74th IB were also present during the activity. Expressing his sincere gratitude in behalf of the people of Mulanay , Mayor . Prudencio Maximo,Jr. thanked the AFPRESCOM and the whole Armed Forces of the Philippines in selecting Mulanay for the successful conduct of the humanitarian mission that benefitted mostly indigent people there. Maj Gen. Yano announced to the residents that the launching of such, especially in remotes barangays in Southern Luzon is a continuous activity to address the health problems of the people in the area and such endeavor is only a part of non-traditional role of the AFP , particularly SOLCOM. # (Courtesy of Maj Jose B. Broso-SOLCOM PIO) PIA-Quezon/jcmendoza. Red Cross distributes school bags to poor students Claude Vincent Dayo, a 1st year high school student and one of the beneficiary vowed to become a youth volunteer for Red Cross in order to help other youth in needs. Mr. Jaime Candelaria , PNRC -Quezon Chapter Administrator wanted the youth to understand that Red Cross is not solely on soliciting and donating blood but they are also giving the youth the opportunity to understand the value of helping and friendliness. Already,500 students from different public schools in this province were provided each a school bags containing 7 notebooks, 6 ballpens, erasers, drawing book, crayons, 6 pencils and rulers courtesy of Red Cross Youth from Japan Red Cross. Public schools who have benefitted from the IFP are the R.T. Camacho Elem. School in Alabat,Quezon;Brgy. Bignay II Elem. School in Sariaya,Quezon;Brgy. Masalukot II Elem. School in Candelaria,Quezon; San Roque National High School in Catanauan ,Quezon and Brgy. Lagay Elem. School in Calauag ,Quezon. IFP originated in Japan in 2003 by Red Cross Youth Volunteers whose aim is to determine the needs and spread understanding among the youth in the Asian region .(PIA- Quezon/jun) Involvement of women in the development of the province, vital – Vice Gov. Suarez Pagbilao,Quezon – Women involvement is vital in the development of the province. This is the statement uttered by Quezon Vice-Governor Jayjay Suarez when he guested at the 6th Inter Mother's Club Meet 2006 held last July 22 at the Couple's for Christ Renewal Center here through the initiative of Mirant Pagbilao Corporation. According to Vice-Gov. Suarez , Mirant Pagbilao Corporation and the Provincial Government of Quezon have programs and ordinances that women's participation used to help in the development of the community. He said, the provincial government is pushing for an ordinance intending to reduce the rates of electricty for consumers in the province while Mirant Pagbilao Corp. has "Micro-Finance" program aiming to help members of the mother's club by lending them financial capital for livelihood projects such as 'sari-sari' stores or 'carinderias'. Mrs. Venus Portes,representing Pagbilao Mayor Romar Portes meanwhile advised the parents, especially the mothers that while they have work to tend for,they must also have time for their children. Mrs. Portes believed that the youth are still the hope of the country. More than 500 women belonging to the Mother's club have participated in the said meet where the ceremonial toss was participated also by Mr. Bernie Sumilang who represents Mr. Rollie Barris, Dept. Head of Mirant Pagbilao,Phils. (PIA-Quezon/jun m.) student consultation PIA-MMIO/LAGUNA JULY 24, 2006 STUDENTS CONSULTATION ON CHARTER CHANGE HELD Sta. Cruz, Laguna - An estimated 500 students from different colleges in this municipality gave audience to the resource speakers of the Charter Change Advocacy Commission (Commissioners Gonzalo Jurado, Alex Aguilar, Atty. Rey Deang); the National Youth Commission (Commissioners Raul Dominic Badilla, Priscilla Marie Abante); and the “Yes” Advocacy (Atty. Mans Tumanda) in the recently concluded charter change consultation held at the Cultural Center of Laguna, Sta. Cruz. Speakers dealt with the issue of shifting the present presidential- bicameral system of government to a parliamentary- unicameral one where they claimed that the latter is more attuned to take on the challenges of the present times and is ideally design to address political and economic instability. This will be beneficial to the youth/students of today’s generation since this system will open up more economic opportunities, attract foreign investments and thereby creates jobs and employment which will ensure their place in the workforce upon graduation. They also touched on the pros and cons of economic liberalization, autonomous territories leading to federalism. Meanwhile, Mr. Ricardo Amoranto, Provincial Assistant General Services Officer, speaking in behalf of Laguna Governor Teresita “Ningning” S. Lazaro, who was was not able to attend the occasion due to official matters, welcomed the participants. He enjoined all the students to make their stand on the issue of charter change.##alorti PSHS Scholarships available for deserving students For over 40 years, 10,000 students have graduated from PSHS with curriculum designed to prepare them careers in Science and Technology. Now these students pursue careers in science,engineering and other fields of endeavor. The PSHS System national Competitive Examination(PSHS-NCE) has a two-step screening which consists of test in Verbal Activity, Abstract Reasoning Science and mathematics. Filipino students who are not more than 15 years of age , in good health , of good moral character, part of the upper 10% of their batch on general weighted average and have not taken previous PSHS examinations can now apply and enjoy the privileges PSHS can give. This includes free tuition fees, free loan on books and monthly living allowance for 10 months . Application for the PSHS scholarship starts on June 15 until August 25, 2006 which is the last date of submission of entries. Interested applicants may inquire and submit their form at the PSHS Main Campus, Agham Road , Quezon City or at the DOST PSTC-Quezon, G/F MSEUF Bldg ., cor Granja & Enverga Sts., Lucena City. More than 300 families in Naujan, benefited by “ Tulong Ayos Pabahay” Three hundred eighty nine (389) families from different barangay in the municipality of Naujan were benefited by P3, 000.00 each worth of construction materials for the rehabilitation of houses which were destroyed by typhoon Caloy last May. Each beneficiary was given ten (10) pieces of galvanized iron (GI sheet), 3 pieces of “lawanit” and 1 kilo of concrete nail. According to Naujan Mayor Norberto Mendoza, he hopes that said construction materials from the Provincial Government would not be wasted by Naujeños. He said, “although such construction materials are not enough, it is but right for the Naujeños to thank the government because the administration of Governor Panaligan immediately moved to help them”. He further stated that the Provincial Government is trying to help every affected family caused by the recent calamity. Governor Panaligan stressed that this is only the first batch where the Provincial Government would extend help. Those who have lost their houses were the priorities of his administration. He assured everybody would be given equal services by the government.(PIA-Calapan) E-Type School Building, inaugurated in Buenavista ,Quezon Buenavista,Quezon – A three (3) classroom E-type school building which was provided by the provincial government of Quezon was inaugurated here recently with Gov. Willie L. Enverga gracing the said inauguration and blessing ceremony. The school building was erected at the Buenavista Central Elementary School Complex where the greater number of pupils in this municipality are enrolled. Aside from the inauguration of the school building,Gov. Enverga also distributed instructional materials such as ; books for elemetary and secondary students, notebooks ,lesson plans for teachers,school desks and fire extinguishers. Gov. Enverga likewise directed Buenavista Vice-Mayor Medy Rivera for the supervision on the distribution of Philhealth cards to some residents here and received in her behalf fire extinguishers for the municipal government use. Gov. Enverga were accompanied by Quezon 1st Dist. Board Member Kelly Portes,3rd Dist.Board Member Lourdes de Luna-Pasatiempo,Asst. School District Supt. Gloria Potes, DepEd personnel and provincial government officers. The said school building is the 44th of such type which is also found in almost all of the municpalities of Quezon province.(PIA-Quezon/jun) DOLE,SM,MSEUF and local govt. sponsored Jobs and Opportunities Fair Lucena City – About 500 young adults from the different municipalities of Quezon province looking for job opportunities have participated in the "Jobs and Opportunities Fair held at SM City Lucena last June 29,2006. Applicants were teach on the right manner of answering interviews and the proper way of dressing when applying for a job. Guest speakers for the said activity were composed of Prof. Angelita Tan from the College of Business Administration and Accounting of Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF-Lucena), Prof. Marco Rodas from the College of Arts and Sciences also of MSEUF and Ms. Vivian Juan, HRD Manager of Philippine Christian Literature. Numerous job vacancies from local and overseas employment are posted at the said job fair, giving the young applicants not to lose for hope. Joining SM City Lucena in sponsoring the jobs opportunity fair are the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE -Quezon ), the City government of Lucena and the MSEUF . Among the companies participating in the program are : the SCMC Admin Office,SM affiliates stores -SM Department Store, SM Supermarket, Our Home,Home Worldand Watson . Also participating are Bioessence, Greenwich, Calmar Land , PCBS, K-Servico,RAMCAR Group of Companies,Canadian Immigration Consultancy,Jennies Touch products and Services,SCAD Services, MML Recruitment Services and other companies based in Laguna. The activity likewise complements President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of helping people and the unemployed young adults under her program" Opportunities to create six million jobs". PIA-Quezon 's Ruel M. Orinday covered the said activity.(PIA-Quezon /jun) Consultation /Training on Charter Change Advocacy in Lucena City Guest speakers were Atty. Philip Berces,Board Member of the Province of Albay and Efren de Luna ,spokeperson for Sigaw ng Bayan(PCDO-ACTO). Atty. Berces clarified the needs for a shift from presidential to parliamentary system form of government .He says the consultations they are doing is just an initial step to pry on the sentiments of the citizens on this campaign of the government which is planning to put a change in the livelihood aspects through amendments on some provisions of the constitution.The people's initiative even began during the term of former Pres.Fidel V. Ramos,Atty. Berces added. Efren de Luna meanwhile,says that there 's a strong assurance of change in the country particularly on our standard of living if our consitution will have amendments. Invited at the said orientation/training were local government officials led by Lucena City Mayor Ramon Y. Talaga,Jr. ,city councilors,barangay officials ,officials and members of different NGOs and local media practitioners. Mayor Ramon Y. Talaga,Jr., re-echoed the positive statement of the two speaker stressing that " changing presidential to parliamentary form of government is the only hope of every Filipino people".(PIA-Quezon/jun) "Tindahan Natin" launched in Padre Burgos,Quezon Aimed at creating job opportunities , livelihood and food security ,the Tindahan Natin project is a national government project which will provide low-priced but good quality rice and noodles through a store jointly identified and endorsed by the DSWD and subsequently accredited by the NFA. It is line with the government's effort of eradicating hunger and unemployment. On her first working day this 2006 , President Gloria-Macapagal-Arroyo's has announced the release of P35 billion from government savings to subsidize selected food items and finance projects for the poor. Along with the provinces of Marinduque,Occidental Mindoro,Palawan and Romblon, Quezon province was one of those areas in Region 4 identified by the National Nutrition Council(NNC), as among the 49 provinces in the country with high hunger and poverty incidence . On said launching, certificate to operate Tindahan Natin was distributed by Asec Fajardo & Director Bonabon to lucky beneficiaries. NFA Provincial Manager Esmeraldo I. Pelonio reported that NFA-Quezon had accredited 27 outlets in identified areas of the DSWD. These are in the municipalities of : Ist Dist-Mauban,Sampaloc,Polillo , Burdeos,Panukulan,Patnanungan, Jomalig,Infanta,Real and Gen. Nakar; 2nd Dist-Dolores ;3rd Dist.-Agdangan,Catanauan,Macalelon,Mulanay,Padre Burgos,Pitogo,San Francisco and Unisan and 4th Dist.- Atimonan,Calauag, Guinayangan, Lopez, Perez, Plaridel, Quezon,and Tagkawayan. Fifteen(15) of these outlets had already been operational as of date, getting allocation of NFA rice and noodles from the nearest NFA warehouses of the province . NFA rice is sold at P18.00/kg. While noodles are sold cheaper (P6.50) than in nearby stores. Padre Burgos Mayor Domingo T. Villena expressed his gratitude to everyone in the government for the said project which he said is beneficial to his constituents. Asec. Ma. Lorelie Fajardo said that the "Tindahan Natin "outlet of Brgy. Hinguiwin ,this muncipality will also house the "Botika sa Barangay" with available half-priced medicines. PIA -Quezon, with Lito Giron and Angelo Forneste attended the launching and took video footages. (PIA-Quezon,jun) Ten Outstanding Barangay Officials of the Year Award launched in Lucena City Lucena City - The DILG Calabarzon adheres to the idea ,that, for local government units to achieve the pinnacle of greatness when it comes to excellence in local governance, the barangays prove to be the most crucial in any development initiative because they are the smallest local government unit. Behind every successful barangay is a story waiting to be told. The DILG therefore finds it necessary to pay tribute to these gallant local officials who gave their all and more for the sake of the community. In line with giving incentives and rewards to barangay officials of CALABARZON, the DILG -IV considered the implementation of the Ten Outstanding Barangay Officials of the Year (TOBOY) awards. In the search for TOBOY, twenty (20) regional finalists shall come from CALABARZON region. Out of these regional finalists, ten (10) shall be declared as Outstanding Barangay Officials for the Year. These shall comprise two(2) Punong Barangays, two (2) Brgy. Kagawads, two(2) Barangay treasurers, two(2) Brgy. Secretaries, and two (2) SK Chairmen. The incentives and awards shall be considered during the Awarding Ceremonies to be held in December of every year. During the initial meeting last June 27 at TLDC office for Lucena City committee ,Councilor Joe Asensi,Jr. was considered to be the Chairman for this year, Asensi was a multi-awardee media practitioner. Natatanging Anak ng Lucena 2002 , Medalya ng Karangalan ng Quezon Special Awardee 2004, Outstanding City Councilors for exemplary Public Service Awardee 2004 , and recipient of National Gintong Sikap Awardee 2006. Meanwhile, Asensi is the co-chairman of Atty. Tony Acyatan for Natatanging Anak ng Lucena Search and Member of the Search for Outstanding Policemen 2006. Asensi is also the committee Chairman of Blue Ribbon , Accountability of Public Officials, Ethics and Privileges. Other members composed of Lucena DILG Director Pedro Mendoza , Councilor Oway Garcia being ABC President and Chairman of Barangay Affairs , Mrs. Ruby Talaga representing NGO being President of KBPLI & Superintendent Azucena Romulo of DeP Ed. Any youth,civic , religious or non-government organization may sponsor or nominate qualified on deserving barangay officials to the Search for TOBOY. All entries or nomination shall be filed at the City DILG office in Lucena. (Source :Joe Asensi,Jr.,City Councilor/PIA-Quezon,jun) Mirant employees as volunteers for Brigada-eskwela Pagbilao,Quezon - One of the two power plants operating in Quezon province, the Mirant Pagbilao Corporation (popularly known as Pagbilao Power Plant) has involved their employees through volunteerism and service by supporting the program Brigada-eskwela which was initiated by the Department of Labor in time with the National School Maintenance Week before the regular school openings . The activity was also in line with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's Education for All program. The project which started last May 26 to June 2, 2006, was able to assist six public schools in Pagbilao: Polo South Elementary School, Polo North Elementary School, Tulay-Buhangin Elem. School, Malicboy West Elementary School, Bantigue Elementary School, and Pagbilao Grande Island National High School. With aim to provide the students a place conducive to learning and progress by doing some minor repairs and cleaning of school vicinities and classrooms,each school received from Mirant Pagbilao some cleaning materials (i.e. rags, brooms, dust pans, trash cans, etc.), Compact fluorescent lamp (CFLs), PVCs, and other such items for this activity. Mirant employee-volunteers did some minor repairs for the schools, especially those that needed electrical attention. The schools mentioned received CFLs from Mirant in order to reduce their energy consumption by changing incandescent light bulbs and fluorescent lamps to CFLs. CFLs is highly efficient to reduce energy consumption because it only needs 20-25 % of energy compared to incandescent bulbs which used 80 % energy to convert it into light. This community-outreach project was a joint effort by Mirant Pagbilao Corporation and Mirant Foundation Inc. in coordination with DepEd. The PTCA members of each recipient school also took part in the undertakings by providing their time and effort for the success of the said activity(Source-Eugene Vertudazo,Mirant Pagbilao Corp./PIA Quezon-jun) # # # Transco intensifies campaign against tower spoilers In an inter-action forum with different sectors held last June 21 at the Rosarian Restaurant in this municipality, Enrique Taningco of Transco reported that about 11,000 pieces of tower parts were missing or stolen in some areas of the province. Invited at the said inter-action were municipal mayors,police and military personnel and barangay officials from the towns of Lopez,Plaridel and Gumaca.Other invited guests were local media practitioners from Lucena City.Also participating were PIA- Quezon Infocen Manager Lito M. Giron and Ruel M. Orinday. Mr. Nelson Bautista of Transco stressed before the participants the strict ordinance against illegal cutting,sawing, dismantling,concealing ,transporting , buying and melting of all parts of Transco tower. The management of Transco-South Luzon area expound the ill-effects of stealing parts of electrical tower, like widespread brownouts, hazards to affected residents and environment, economic losses, and additional expenses to the government. Bautista said that erring individuals caught violating ordinance R.A. 7832 has a penalty of 12 to 20 years imprisonment or penalty from P50,000 to P100,000 or both imprisonment and penalty as decided by the court. With this development , the Transco management enjoined all the municipal mayors,barangay officials,police and the military as well as local mediamen in this province to support their ongoing campaign.(PIA-Quezon/jun) Presidential Bridge Program Project in Lopez,Quezon completed Lopez,Quezon(June 12) – A bridge connecting Barangay Talolong and Barangay Magsaysay this municipality has been completed and is ready for inauguration , Lopez Mayor Fidencio S. Salumbides said in an interview conducted by PIA Ruel M. Orinday during the celebration of Independence Day here . The P12 million bridge is under the presidential bridge program of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and is expected to serve the community well. Mayor Salumbides said that Lopez is classified as a 1st Class municipality and one of the primary livelihood here is coconut farming and that the promotion of "anahaw" as other source of income for some residents here is being pushed through ."We have the most number of barangays in the province(95 barangays ) and anahaw is very abundant here. We wanted our town to be known as a place where there are plenty of anahaw grown. In fact we already had our First Anahaw Festival held recently",added Salumbides.(PIA-Quezon/jun) COMMISSIONER OROSA AND BIAN ENLIGHTEN MULTI-SECTORAL GROUPS ON CHARTER CHANGE ADVOCACY PIA-MMIO JUNE 21, 2006 COMMISSIONERS OROSA AND BIAN ENLIGHTEN MULTI-SECTORAL GROUPS ON CHARTER CHANGE ADVOCACY STA. CRUZ, LAGUNA - In a charter change forum held at the Laguna Cultural Center on June 20, 2006, Charter Change Advocacy Commissioners Ramon S. Orosa Jr. and Jojie Ilagan- Bian enlightened multi-sectoral groups on various charter change issues. According to Comm. Orosa, a change in our system of government is necessary to make it more responsive and attuned to our present needs; a change that is relevant and can tackle the challenges posed by modern times. He added that the Advocacy Commission is bringing down the discussions to the people at every possible venue available in order for them to be enlightened on the pros and cons of the issue and in the end to have an informed choice. Meanwhile, Comm. Bian comprehensively brought out the advantages and benefits of having a parliamentary unicameral form of government over presidential bicameral one. She emphasized that our country is lagging behind our neighbor countries. “Why is this so,” she asked. “This is because our present form of government is characterized by opposition, obstruction and ambition which does not make our country any better economically and politically,” she answered. Governor Teresita S. Lazaro and Provincial Administrative Officer Dennis S. Lazaro both signified their support to the advocacy and welcomed the ADCOM group and participants from various LGU’s (Department of Agriculture, Office of the Provincial Veterinarian, Deparatment of Education, Barangay Council); NGOs (Samahan ng mga Kabataan,Kababaihang Lingkod-Bayan ng Laguna, Youth Development Affairs, Sulong Laguna Movement, Guardians’ Brotherhood, Inc., Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs); multi-sectoral groups (business, transport, farmers, cooperatives sectors). COMMISSIONERS OROSA AND BIAN ENLIGHTEN MULTI-SECTORAL GROUPS ON CHARTER CHANGE ADVOCACY Lucena to promote Bright Child project City Mayor Ramon Y. Talaga and DSWD Regional Director Thesa Biolena, representing the parties involved in the ECCD project , were the principal signatories in the MOA. The DSWD regional office has chosen Lucena City as the pilot area for the ECCD project since it is classified as the only highly urbanized city in the province of Quezon.The ECCD will involved children from 0-6 years old. The ECCD project is targeted for provinces with high incidence of malnutrition,maternal and infant mortality rate. With the Sagip Kalinga sa Kabataan ng Lungsod ng Lucena and the newly formed ECCD committee here, a program will be formulated to ensure the proper growth of children involved in the project. The ECCD committee is composed of representatives from the following offices here:City Social Welfare & Dev't.;City Health,City Planning & Dev't.,City Budget, Lucena PNP , City Population Commission, and City Public Information Office. The Council for the Welfare of Children will allot P5 million for the said project while the City Government of Lucena has earmarked P3.3 million as their counterpart . The ECCD is expected to be formally launched during the celebration of the month of nutrition this coming July.(source-PIO Lucena/PIA-Quezon,jun) Jethropa project in Quezon 1st Dist. Infanta,Quezon – More than 2000 residents here will benefit from a livelihood project eyed by 1st Dist.Board Member Eladio Pasamba which is in line with the priority projects of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. The project is the cultivation or the planting of Jethropa ,locally known here as "tuba-tuba" or "tubang silangan" and which is the topic of a discussion in a seminar conducted by representatives from Nestle Phils. , TESDA and Land Bank during the fiesta celebration in this municipality. "The seed of a "tuba-tuba" is 33 percent bio-diesel that can produce fuel which is similar to fuel imported from other countries and the sepal taken from the seeds can be converted to an organic fertilizer", says Joel Lumagbas of Nestle Phils. . A one hectare land planted with jethropa will earned a farmer from 7 to 12 thousand pesos a harvest , and it can be harvested twice a year,Lumagbas added. The seminar attracted some 400 interested residents from the towns of Real,Infanta and General Nakar . Nestle Phils. provided the participants with free seedlings of Jethropa and information about its cultivation .Nestle will also purchase the seeds of jethropa upon their harvest. TESDA representatives will also provide the beneficiaries with technical assistance while Land Bank will answers the necessary funds needed to make the project successful. Board Member Pasamba says that he is planning to establish a farmers cooperative involved in the cultivation of jethropa and would want to expand this to other municipalities of the 1st distric of Quezon Province.(PIA-Quezon/jun) PhilHealth launches People 's Day Lucena City – Around 40 persons from various agencies attended the first People's Day initiated by the PhilHealth Regional Office IV-A (PRO IV-A) at their office here recently. It aims to encourage partner hospitals,local government units, organized groups and media to discuss with the management of PhilHealth in every region. Dr. Carmelita A. Laureano , Assistant Vice-President of PRO IV-A presided over the first People's Day here and said that the People's Day is in response to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's call to make government agencies closer to the people. . She gave clarifications and answers to questions from the audience. A series of People's Day were also conducted by PhiHealth in Calamba and San Pablo in Laguna and will also be done in Imus and Trece Martirez in Cavite as well as in Lopez,Quezon Service Desk. (PIA-Quezon/Jun) QLCCI to host 15th Southern Luzon Area Business Conference Lucena City - The Quezon - Lucena Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc will host the 15th South Luzon Area Business Conference(SOLABC 2006) at the Queen margarette Hotel in this city on July 20-23 . In a press conference held last June 3 at the office of the Quezon-Lucena Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc.,(QLCCI) in this city Ms. Honorata V. Po, its president, had said that this year's conference theme will be "Philippine Business in its Sunrise" and will be inviting small and medium entrepreneurs as participants. Highlighting the affair will be a "Trade Fair and Exhibit" at the Bazaar Area of SM City Lucena on July 20. Among the invited guest were Rep. Joey Salceda of Albay, Sen. Ralp Recto and Mr. Donald Dy,President of Philippine Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry. According to Ms. Po, their group has sent resolutions to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo like modernization of coconut industry in Quezon province, resolution for a discounted rates in electricity in the province owing as host to two big power plants , resolution for a review on Agrarian Reform Law and a resolution for the widening of roads in this province.(PIA-Quezon/jun) Rousing welcome for Heracleo "Leo" Oracion in Lucena City Leo, wearing his mountaineering uniform, was warmly welcomed by his adoring 'kababayans' as well as local officials of the province and the city of Lucena as well. In a brief program held under the sweltering heat of the sun at Perez Park here,Gov. Willie L. Enverga presented Leo Oracion a plaque of recognition and a symbolic check amounting to P150,000 which represents cash reward for his heroic feat of Mt. Everest, considered the tallest and most heralded mountain peak in the world. The city government of Lucena led by City Mayor Ramon Y. Talaga ,Jr. , also acknowledges the success of Leo's exploit and gave him a plaque of recognition. Vice-Governor David 'jayjay' Suarez , also hailed the achievement of Leo and said that he be accorded with a recognition as a Natatanging Anak ng Quezon awardee on the celebration of Quezon Day this coming August 19. Quezon 1st Dist. Representative Rafael P. Nantes had earlier commended Leo by filing a resolution giving recognition of Leo's feat as a Quezonian who was acclaimed to be the first Pilipino to scale the summit of Mt. Everest officially. Nantes said the determination of Oracion can be considered an heroic act for he has shown the world that a Pilipino can achieved such a feat. Leo's proud parents, Guillermo Salumbides Oracion and Asuncion Abustan were all praised of their son's achievements, saying that even in his high school days in Lucban , Leo was always found with friends scaling the height of Mt. Banahaw. In his response to the accolades given by his 'kababayans' ,Leo praised them for recognizing his exploits ,saying the warmth welcome thrown on him here is as hot as the sun over his head. "Kung gaano kasobra ang init dito sa atin ay siya namang pagkalamig-lamig sa tuktok ng Mt. Everest ", jested Leo. (PIA-Quezon/jun) COMM. BENGZON: ECONOMIC PROSPERTIY DEPENDS ON LONG TERM POLITICAL STABILITY PIA-MMIO JUNE 8, 2006 COMM. BENGZON: ECONOMIC PROSPERITY DEPENDS ON LONG TERM POLITICAL STABILITY San Pablo CIty – “Let’s support Charter Change and go for Parliamentary.” This was the statement made by Charter Change Advocacy Comissioner Romela Bengzon in the recently concluded symposium on Charter Change Advocacy held at the One-Stop Processing Center, this city. Comm. Bengzon disclosed that 30% of the population are poor. Out of this, 15% are very much way below the poverty line and experienced extreme hunger. And this is the very reason, she said, why there is a need for the people’s initiative to advocate charter change. This change would eventually shift the present bicameral presidential form of government to unicameral parliamentary form of government which is best suited to address political and economic instability. She added that “economic prosperity depends on long term political stability.” And this is only possible by having the latter. “The former is a long rotten system which no longer do our economy good,” she lamented. In closing her speech, she appeals to the crowd to support charter change and go for parliamentary. Present in the event were San Pablo City Mayor Vic B. Amante, City Councilors Karen Agapay, Abbie Yu, Paul Colado, Edgardo Adajar, SK members and non-government organization members and local mediamen./PIA-Laguna/alorti Asphalt overlaying of Pagbilao highway Although the town of Pagbilao belongs to the 1st district,Engineer Tan said the stretch is part of the national road leading to the 4th district which is under their jurisdiction. The project , amounting to P60 million , has also the blessing of 4th Dist. Congressman Erin Tañada and was allocated from the fund of president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and the Dept. of Public Highways Region IVA under Director Bonner Seguit. Concreting of roads in the towns of Calauag-Guinyangan and Tagkawayan going to QuirinoHighway leading to the Bicol Region is next on their agenda ,Engineer Tan added.(Source-Johnny Glorioso ,Ang Diaryo Natin / PIA-Quezon,Jun) 123 Coco farmers surrender to avoid harassment , arrest Gumaca,Quezon-Some 123 coconut farmers from the towns of San Narciso, San Francisco and San Andres have surrendered to the authorities recently to avoid continued harassment and arrest from influential landowners in the Bondoc Peninsula. Indiscriminate filing of criminal charges and issuances of warrants of arrest against tenants and farmer beneficiaries in coconut plantations had prompted the coco farmers to voluntarily surrender en masse, said Joanne Fernandez of the Phil. Ecumenical Action for Community Empowerment Foundation (PEACE). The farmers had surrendered to the Dept. of Justice after they claimed that at least 30 armed men forcibly entered the houses of four San Andres farmers on May 12 and arrested them. They were turned over to the DAR and the Criminal Investigation and Detention Group in Camp Crame. Last May 31, 19 of the farmers were escorted to CIDG Quezon office in Camp Nakar before they were turned over to the Gumaca Regional Trial Court for custody. The farmers ,even without arrest warrants, were willing to be taken to jail,Fernandez said. Of the 123 coconut farmers, 37 have received warrants of arrest , according to Fernandez. There were 186 pending cases against the 123 farmers, 176 of which were for qualified theft, three for estafa, three for libel, two for trespassing, grave threat, malicious mischief and attempted murder. Fernandez said 169 of the cases were pending before the Gumaca RTC, five cases with the municipal trial court and 13 cases at the office of the provincial prosecutor. (Source-Benny Luzentales,The Lucena Herald/PIA-Quezon/jun) DPWH employs 458 workers in Quezon Atimonan,Quezon -The Quezon 4th Engineering District has employed 458 workers at the Quezon National Forest Park recently as it launched its 'roadside maintenance job generation' which is also a part of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's job creation program. DPWH 4th District Engineer Chief , Ronnel M. Tan said the public work program intend to uplift the living conditions of unemployed workers in this province in line with the President's job generation program. " This project is the realization of Pres. Arroyo's declaration of creating 10,000 jobs for this quarter,wherein 4,000 out of the 10,000 jobs was alloted for the whole Region IV-A by the Office of the President," Engr. Tan explained. " The new recruits,who hails from the towns of Pagbilao,Padre Burgos, and Atimonan , will serve as additional workers of the Quezon 4th Engineering District and are tasked to clean up and maintain the 260 kilometer stretch of the Maharlika and Quirino Highways. Each of them will receive P231 a day as compensation and will engage in cleaning and maintaining the roadside for eight hours a day from Monday to Friday", Tan added. The national highway leading to the Quezon National Park has ben a priority area of the DPWH but due to lack of funds, maintenance of this infrastructure has long been delayed.(Source-Benny Luzentales/Lucena Herald) OPA-Quezon helps in Rehabilitating REINA As part of rehabilitation in the REINA area since disastrous typhoons Winnie,Unding and Yoyong struck heavily in 2004, a three day training on Forage and Pasture Management was carried out by the Dept. of Agriculture through the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian at Barangay Ingas Infanta,Quezon recently. Ms. Luzviminda A. Torres , OIC - Provincial Veterinarian said that participants to the training are carabao and cattle raisers , farmers and representatives of local government. The training was aimed at enhancing the participants’ skills in managing grass feeds and in livestock husbandry. This is also a way of support by the DA and Provincial Government of Quezon to all lucky beneficiaries of cattle and carabao in REINA who will take care , breed and then share it to others. Torres added that topics discussed during the first day of training was identification of the different varieties of legumes and grass feeds ,establishment of grasslands and their importance, the right foods for animals and proper feedings . Discussed also are the different species of cattles and carabao and how they are properly breed. The participants likewise were shown how to prepare pickled grass as a way of preserving grass when grasses are in shortage adding that pickled grass contain more protein compared to grown grass. On the second day of training, an educational tour was conducted in various places where breakthrough on animal technology were developed such as the Dairy & Training Institute and the Philippine Carabao Center in UP Los Baños. On the concluding day which was held at the Sta. Elena Resort , subjects tackled includes the making of Urea Molasses Mono Block (UMMB), a supplemental food for large animals , herding of flocks , animal nutrition and diseases of the ruminants or animal that feed on grasses. Trainors for the 3 day training are Ms. Jennifer Lindo, Ms. Aileen Florante , Jimmy San Buenaventura of the OPV and others from the DA and STIARC. The training was conducted through the joint effort of the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) , DA- RFV IV , OPV , Municipal Agriculturist Offices with financial assistance from the Food and Agriculturao Organization, Ms. Torres said. (PIA-Quezon/jun) Seminar on Mango Production Macalelon , Quezon – In response to the Quezon Mango Growers Association (QMGA) ‘s request for a training on mango production , a “Seminar on Good Agricultural Practices on Mango Production” was held through the joint effort of Department of Agriculture IV-A , local government of Macalelon under Mayor Liwayway Tan in coordination with the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) under Provincial Agriculturist Domingo J. Mamasig. Mr. Antonio G. Gerundio , Reg’l. HVCC Coordinator, DARFU IV-A, discussed the status of the country’s mango industry, and the proper management on mango production from planting, culture, flowering unto harvesting season. Meanwhile, Mrs. Letty Hernandez,FPA-Prov’l. Coordinator, and Mr. Gregorio M. Arboleda,Jr., Legal Asst. II,PID, provide indepths on the right methods of using pesticides. Selection of the best planting material to ensure the quality of harvest is very important, and information on this matter was tackled by Dr. Ed Lalas,Senior Agriculturist,QAES and Mr. Vio Matuto . The success of the industry depend on the smooth tradings in the market and those methods were underlined by Dir Marcelina Alcantara ,DTI-Quezon. The said seminar was successfully conducted through the initiative of Mr. Romeo Ortiz, president of QMGA. . The seminar was also attended by Engr. Marcos T. Villegas, RAFC Chairman and representatives of QMGA from the different municipalities of Quezon Province. (PIA-Quezon/jun) Pagbilao Power Plant celebrates 6 million safety milestone The safety milestone is the result of a teamwork performance from both the management and employees. It is a combining effort of implementing best health and safety practices across the power plant aimed at efficiently keeping Pagbilao Power Plant a safe and positive environment to work for amid world class occupational and environmental conditions. Eugene Vertudazo, public relation officer of Mirant says every employee is doing their share in ensuring that this target becomes a reality. “Teamwork, good communication, and commitment are elements that are helping us make this goal come true and that every employee is being reminded of the hazards on their workplace. .They were consistently given an advise to work safely, not to lose focus on what they are doing, keeping the presence of mind, and to look for the safety of their fellow employees. Managers and superintendents involved themselves in ensuring that the outage will be completed without any untoward incidents. They even conducted meetings with contractors and reviewed their safety performance” he further said. On the part of contractors, they have done their best to comply with the plant safety requirements and they have improved a lot in their safety performance. Until now no incidents of oil spill, fires and lost time cases were reported at the said plant Pagbilao Power Plant , consists of two 367.5 MW-generating unit and supplies electricity to the Luzon power grid of the National Power Corporation, has total workforce of more than 400. It continuously strives to promote health and safety environment not only in the workplace but in the community as well.(Source-E.Vertudazo of Mirant Phils., PIA-Quezon/jun) COMMISSIONER OROSA REITERATES CHARTER CHANGE PIA-MMIO-Laguna MAY 25, 2006 COMMISSIONER OROSA REITERATES CHARTER CHANGE Cabuyao, Laguna – The Municipality of Cabuyao headed by Mayor Nila G. Aguillo, Vice Mayor Isidro Hemedes and members of the Sangguniang Bayan warmly welcomed Charter Change Advocacy Commissioner Ramon S. Orosa, as the speaker, in today’s holding of Charter Change orientation and consultation held at the town hall’s audio-visual room. In an interview with the Philippine Information Agency-Laguna, Comm. Orosa stated that there really is a pressing need to amend certain provisions of the 1987 Constitution. He added that the problems besetting our country now clearly has a direct connection with our present system of government. “We need a system that runs attuned with the fast-changing environment. A system that promotes equal political and economic opportunities to all. And to make this country move forward there is a need to shift from presidential-bicameral form of government to parliamentary- unicameral form of government, of which the latter is more suitable to political and economic stability. In conclusion, the Commissioner made an appeal that we need to accept change and reform with an open mind and heart../PIA-LAGUNA State of calamity, idineklara na sa Oriental Mindoro Ito ay sa bisa ng Resolution No. 159-2006 na ipinasa ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP), sa pangunguna ni Bise-Gobernador at SP Presiding Officer Ma. Estela Felipa M. Aceron, sa sesyon ng SP noong Mayo 15 sa Kapitolyo. Mahalaga ang pagpapasa ng nabanggit na resolusyon para sa pagpapalabas at paggamit ng 5% Calamity Fund ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan, na gagamitin para sa kagyat at mabilisang pagsasagawa ng relief operations, rehabilitation, reconstruction at iba pa kaugnay sa mga naging pinsala ng Bagyong Caloy sa buong lalawigan. Batay sa Section 468 ng Local Government Code of 1991, may kapangyarihan ang SP na magpatibay ng mga pamamaraan upang mapangalagaan ang mga naninirahan mula sa mapaminsalang epekto ng mga kalamidad at magbigay ng mga paglilingkod at tulong para sa mga naging biktima nito. Batay sa mga inisyal na ulat, ang bagyong Caloy ay nagdulot sa pagkamatay ng walong Mindoreño samantalang may humigit-kumulang naman sa P2-B ang halaga ng mga nasirang ari-arian at kabuhayan ng mga Mindoreño. Malaking bahagdan ng mga napinsala ang nasa sektor ng agrikultura. Tinatayang nasa P50-M halaga naman ang nasirang mga pasilidad sa kuryente ng National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR) AT Oriental Mindoro Electric Cooperative (ORMECO). (ltcueto-PIA CALAPAN CITY/Source: Provincial Information Office) P2.09-B ang pinsala ni ‘Caloy’ sa agrikultura Sa partial report ng Provincial Agriculturist Office (PagO), tinatayang 95% ng sagingan sa buong lalawigan ang lubhang naapektuhan ng malakas na bagyo. Nasa 85%-90% naman ng libu-libong ektaryang natatamnan ng durian, rambutan, lanzones, mangga at citrus ang nasira. Samantalang 75% ng niyugan ang matindi ring sinalanta ng bagyo. Sa report ng PagO, pinakamalaki ang pinsalang itinala sa Naujan na P657-M. Sinundan ito ng Victoria na mayroong P328-M pinsala na ang karamihan ay mula sa mga nasirang ekta-ektaryang prutasan at kalamansian. Matindi ring hinagupit ng bagyo ang mga bayan ng Pola na may nakatalang pinsala na P276-M at Socorro na may pinsalang P229-M. Nasa P190-M naman ang nasirang agrikultura sa Roxas, mahigit P100-M sa Pinamalayan, P86-M sa Gloria, P70-M sa Bongabong; P50-M sa San Teodoro, P34-M sa Calapan City, P23-M sa Mansalay, P22-M sa Bansud, P9-M sa Baco, P6-M sa Puerto Galera, at P4-M sa Bulalacao. (ltcueto-PIA CALAPAN CITY/Source: Provincial Information Office) Pag-apaw ng tubig sa protection dike dahilan ng pagbaha; 85% ng P66-M nasa DBM pa Ito ang binigyang-diin ni Gov. Arnan C. Panaligan sa isinagawang press conference sa Kapitolyo noong Mayo 15. Dahil sa malakas na ulan sanhi ng bagyong Caloy, tumaas ng mahigit isang metro ang tubig sa natapos nang protection dike ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan sa Bucayao. Mas malaki ang volume ng tubig na ito noong Mayo 13 kumpara sa naging dating tubig sa tatlong magkakasunod na baha noong Disyembre 2005. Ayon kay Panaligan, kung wala ang protection dike malamang na lumubog sa baha ang buong syudad ng Calapan. Ang pag-apaw ng tubig sa protection dike ay lumikha naman ng pagkalkal sa apat na magkakahiwalay na bahagi ng dike na kung susumahin ay mahigit sa 100 metro. Samantala, nilinaw din ni Panaligan na sa P66-M na inilaan ng Pamahalaang Nasyunal para sa gabion armouring project sa junction ng Aglubang-Ibulo rivers ay labinlimang prosyento pa lamang ang nai-release, naipatapos na nila ang 647 metro ng nasabing gabion armouring. May 400 metro namang deepening o pagpapalalim sa mga nabanggit na ilog ang naisagawa na rin nila. Ang gabion armouring na nabanggit na nakaprogramang matapos sa Setyembre 2006 ay pinagagawan din ng gobernador ng paraan sa Department of Public Works & Highways (DPWH) na mapabilis at matapos sa buwan ng Hulyo. Katwiran ng gobernador, “hindi na makatitiis pa ang mga taong paulit-ulit na makaranas ng pagbaha.” Kaagad namang aayusin ang earth dike gamit ang pasilidad ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan. Idinagdag pa ng gobernador na ang muling pagbaha noong Mayo 13 ay higit lamang na nagpapatibay sa paninindigan ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan na tutulan ang malawakang pagmimina sa lalawigan ng Oriental Mindoro. (ltcueto-PIA CALAPAN CITY/Source: Provincial Information Office) RIGHT TIME TO REFORM THE CONSTITUTION IS NOW - OROSA PIA-MMIO, LAGUNA MAY 19, 2006 RIGHT TIME TO REFORM THE CONSTITUTION IS NOW-OROSA Mabitac, Laguna - - In a charter change forum held recently in this municipality, Commissioner Ramon S. Orosa of the Advocacy Commission as speaker stressed that there is a need to change some provisions of our Constitution and the right time is now. According to him a change in our system of government is necessary to make it more responsive and attuned to our needs and challenges and give more power to local government units. Commisioner Orosa said that they are bringing down the discussions on charter change closer to the people through series of fora nationwide for them to be enlightened. Why we are going to change it ? and How are we going to change it?. This will pave to an informed choice he added. The talking point is on issues anent to federalism and the shift to the parliamentary system of government, the advantages and disadvantages compared to our present unitary system of government and other vital issues affecting our lives and the economy. Issues on decentralization, economic and political stability, efficiency in governance, responsiveness and other related concerns were raised and properly tackled during the open forum that immediately followed after the lecture. In this advocacy Mayor Gerardo C. Fader warmly welcomed Commissioner Ramon S. Orosa of the Advocacy Commission as well as other guests and thanked the around 500 participants as multipliers of information representing various sectors in the 15 barangays of said town. ROADSIDE MAINTENANCE-JOB CREATION PROGRAM LAUNCHED PIA-MMIO MAY 22, 2006 ROAD MAINTENANCE-JOB CREATION PROGRAM LAUNCHED STA. ROSA City – In support to President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo’s 10-point agenda in generating labor and employment, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-Region IV-A) headed by Regional Director Bonifacio O. Seguit, in partnership with the Department of Budget and Management; the Department of the Interior and Local Government; the Department of Social Welfare and Development; the Philippine National Police; and the Philippine Information Agency, lead the launching of Roadside Maintenance – Job Creation Program at the Sta. Rosa City/Tagaytay City roads in Sta. Rosa City on May 22, 2006. The program aims to provide employment especially to those who are under privileged, unemployed family members and out-of-school-youth. Present in the occasion were DSWD Regional Director Thelsa P. Biolena; DSWD Asst. Regional Director Wilma D. Naviamos; DPWH Asst. Regional Director Armando G. Estrella; (1st & 2nd District)DPWH District Engineer Roberto Bernardo; Asst. District Engineer Joel P. Limpengco and other local government unit officials. In his short speech, DPWH Regional Director Seguit stated that this program had actually started since 2003, and this launching is just an augmentation to previous program of the administration. He also added that President Arroyo has been continually finding ways to address unemployment and there are many programs planned to resolve such. In conclusion, RD Seguit made an assurance that this program would last as long as there are roads around to maintain. Out of 437 road workers needed in Laguna (Laguna I, Laguna II, Laguna Sub), 366 have already been recruited as of May 10, 2006 Of 2,300 workers needed in the whole of CALABARAZON area, 1,979 have been recruited as of same date. Scope of works/activities to be done involves: road maintenance (vegetation control, street sweeping, maintenance of center island, painting of curbs and gutter, centerline painting, pothole patching, manual grading of shoulder) and flood control activities (line/ditch cleaning)/PIA-Laguna/alorti Farmers air concern on suspension of CLOAs by DAR Sariaya,Quezon - Hundreds of farmers attended the Multi-Sectoral Forum on Agrarian Reform initiated by 1st Dist Congressman Proceso J. Alcala in coordination with the Quezon Advocates on Agrarian Reform and Rural Development Service) QUARRDs) and DAR-Quezon I Prov’l. Office which was held at the Sariaya Covered Court last May 3 . At the said forum ,the farmers aired their concern on the suspension of a CLOA which was granted to nine farmers over a 23 hectare land formerly owned by the Cabunag family of this municipality. The farmers expressed their apprehension that the land granted them by the government will be forfeited or will be retaken from them because of the Municipal Zoning Ordinance of 1982 of the said municipality. A total of 2,074 hectares are distributed to 1,741 farmers of 15 barangays here , among them,Barangays Tumbaga I, Concepcion I, Concepcion Pinagbakuran , Sampaloc 2 and Sto. Cristo which are all agrarian reform communities (ARCs). Similar cases like this are at the DAR Central office , prompting Congressman Alcala to ask the agency to suspend the issuance of orders for cancellation of CLOAs, and instead make a thorough examination of all application of exemption. The congressman promises to provide lawyers for the solution and gain attention for the appeal. The local government of Sariaya under the administration of Mayor Concepcion Doromal supported the study of the 1982 Municipal Zoning Ordinance to shed light on the provisions stipulated therein which was confirmed by Atty. Arias of QUARRDs. The local government also will conduct reclassification of lands to avoid similar incidences in the future. They also agreed to pass a resolution for the President and to other concerned government agencies through Congressman Alcala for the immediate solution of the case.(PIA-Quezon/jun) Vacated lots at the Lucena Fish Port ready for occupancy Lucena City -Management of the Lucena Fish Port Complex-Phil, Fisheries Devt. Authority (LFPC-PFDA) has called on prospective businessmen and investors in this province wanting to put up business at the said complex to visit or called them at their office at barangay Dalahican this city. In a press conference conducted last May 11 at the said complex , LFPC-PFDA Port Manager Engr. Edwin Maliwat said that there are 15,000 square meters of vacant lots available for lease rentable from P30.00 - P 55.00/ sq. meter / month . Those willing to avail of the offer can put up first class seafoods restaurant, canning plant, sardines factory, iron machine works and other type of businesses. “The port also had cold storage facilities and processing area , and that various species of marine products from about 50 to 80 tons inside the complex are also regularly unloaded and sell daily there,” booasted Engr. Maliwat. The announcement was made by the management as a result of the transfer of operation by commercial vessels(fast craft, roll on- roll off (roro) vessels and other such crafts to the nearby pier of the Philippine Ports Authority(PPA) from Lucena Fish Port Complex .. The transfer cause the decline of income of the said complex which propelled the management to lease the vacated lots . Interested businessmen may call Ms. Flor Jamilano, Chairperson of the LFPC Marketing Committee at Tel. No. (042) 373-4102 and (042) 373-4103. PIA -Quezon led by Infocen Manager Lito Giron and Ruel Orinday also attended the said conference with cameraman Angelo Forneste taking video footages of the said presscon. (PIA-Quezon/jun) Cong. Suarez proposed power plant fueled by biomass Unisan,Quezon – Quezon 3rd Dist. Representative Danilo E. Suarez said that the first biomass power plant in Southeast Asia that he is proposing will be constructed in Bondoc Peninsula area .(3rd Dist. Of Quezon Province ) According to him, the 10 megawatt power plant will have multiplier effect to the farmers in every barangay as it will help to increase their income. The source of fuel for the said plant will come from farm produce here , mostly derived from coconut trees and other form of garbages which will be converted into biomass. These will be bought by the plant at a very reasonbable amount and will surely help to augment the income of coconut planters. Each day that the plant converts waste out of coconut parts into fuel will definitely save dollar for us, as the country may reduce exporting fuel from other countries. “It will also help in maintaining our environment clean because it is free from pollution and fly ash containing sulfuric acid which is emitted by some power plants from as high as 221,000 tons annually”, Suarez added. It will likewise contribute extensively to coconut production because instead of cutting coconut trees , the farmers will be entice to plant more which in turn will be a big factor in the protection of watershed areas. The proposed biomass plant will cost about a billion peso where 75% will be foreign assisted fund and 25 % locally funded. (PIA-Quezon/jun) PGOM holds Provincial Summit on Constitutional Reforms The activity further aims to provide the participants with a greater understanding on the need to amend the 1987 Constitutions and discuss proposed social and economic reforms. In his welcome remarks, Gov. Arnan C. Panaligan expressed his strong conviction and full support in the proposed charter change because he believes that it will bring positive change in the lives of every Filipino particularly in the economic & political governance. Among the guests who contributed their knowledge in explaining well to the participants the issue on charter change are Pat De Quiros & Atty. Philip Berces of ULAP, and Jose Moreno of Sigaw ng Bayan Coalition Kilos Masa. Berces discussed constitutional reforms while De Quiros explained the advantages on the shifting from the presidential form of government to parliamentary system. Moreno, on the other hand, cited specific instances why Filipinos suffer from poverty. He also encouraged all participants to choose qualified person for the position in the government during the time of elections. An open forum was followed after the orientation proper. The problems being encountered by local officials in their respective area of responsibility were raised. Each participant left the venue with courage and proper understanding on charter change issue after all of these discrepancies were properly resolved by ULAP, Sigaw ng Bayan Coalition Kilos Masa and DILG Provincial Office headed by its Provincial Director, Rufino M. Orcino. The activity was attended and participated in by Vice Governor Estee Aseron, Mayors and Vice Mayors of the 14 municipalities and 1 city, members of the Sangguniang Bayan and Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Barangay Captains, all Municipal & Local Government Operations Officers of Oriental Mindoro, Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and media – radio, print, & television. (louiecueto/piacalapancity) Quezon Governor sponsored Provincial Job Fair Some of the positions available to anyone willing to apply are the following: office personnel,technical & store personnel,IT engineers,nurses & other medical staff,construction, hotels, DH , call centers ,production operators , factory workers and others. The activity was under the program “Work,Learn and Earn” of the governor with the cooperation of the PESO Federation of Quezon (City and Municipalities of Quezon) and DOLE. Interested applicants has to bring with them resume/biodata, birth certificate, SSS E-1 or E-4 , diploma, transcript of records, certificate of employment , passport(abroad) , and police clearance or NBI clearance. (PIA-Quezon/jun) Seminar /Workshop on Sampaguita Extraction held It was found out that the said barangay was the center of Sampaguita plantation here which when flowering season , has earned them about P30,000. It is for this reason , according to Mayao Parada Brgy. Chairman Estelito Ramos Sr. that the city government conducted a training on Sampaguita Extraction recently to help them develop its production. Relative to this ,Technology and Livelihood Development Center Manager Arnel Yara said that their office, together with the office of City Mayor Talaga has assures the residents of their assistance and commitment from the plantation up to the extraction processing of essence oil . Aside from this, the city government is also planning to establish an extraction center , donate an extraction equipment and give financial assistance. The City Agriculturist Office also announced their willingness to provide assiatance to the sampaguita planters. City Agriculturist Jose Canlas said that as part of agriculture , their office was assigned to make the production smooth from planting to harvesting. Residents like Mang Paulino and Godofredo Lambon are hopeful that the training will help to improve the quality of their lives. (PIA-Quezon/jun) ADVOCACY ON CHARTER CHANGE: ORIENTATION CUM TRAINING AND CONSULTATION HELD PIA-MMIO-LAGUNA May 8, 2006 ADVOCACY ON CHARTER CHANGE: ORIENTATION CUM TRAINING AND CONSULTATION HELD STA. CRUZ, LAGUNA – The Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP), in partnership with the Charter Change Advocacy Commission (CCADCOM) successfully initiated the holding of advocacy on charter change: orientation cum training and consultation at the Teresita S. Lazaro Training Center (TSL Training Center), Sta. Cruz, Laguna. The activity aims to support advocacy efforts to effectively reach the general public relative to the need to amend certain provisions of the 1987 Constitution. The orientation put on the attendees (provincial elective and appointive officials; component city and municipal mayors; Liga ng mga Barangay Presidents;SK Federation Presidents) the responsibility to disseminate to their constituents whatever knowledge or information they have acquired from this activity. Laguna Governor Teresita S. Lazaro welcomed guests annd participants headed by CCADCOM Comm. Ramon Orosa; Hon. Elmer Datuin, National Chairman- Philippine Councilors’ League (PCL);Mr. Carlo Masajo, Sigaw ng Bayan (SNB) representative; and (3rd District/Pagnasinan)Board Member Angel Baniqued. In his short speech, Comm. Ramon Orosa aptly said, “if we institutionalize the structures of opposition, obstruction and ambition, nothing will bring this country to progress.”. Likewise, Board member Baniqued added that, “to have a good government, we must have a good constitution, one that is relevant and can tackle the challenges posed by modern times. “ Hon. Datuin, , simply said “the need to reform the Constitution is now.” Series of orientation will, likewise, be conducted simultaneously at the municipal and barangay levels on May 22 – 26 and May 27 – 31, 2006, respectively. Expected participants in the municipal level are members of the Saggunian, all Punong Barangays and Barangay Secretaries, including civic and religious groups. At the barangay level, expected participants are Barangay Kagawads, Lupon Members Tanods and residents./PIA-MMIO/alorti Quezon Prov'l. government to support health workers More than six thousand members of the Quezon Federation of Barangay Health Workers(QFBHW) attended the said occassion. They will be given additional necessary facilities to help improve their services to the public , according to Suarez. Suarez said that there are still districts in Quezon which lack medical equipment and promised that the provincial government will facilitate the pooling of resources to assist health centers which are in dire need of financial assistance. Suarez cited the BHWs as heroes of the province because of the sacrifices they performed in order to serve households even in the remotest areas and sometime serves people without expecting any return. Since the BHWs are in the frontline of the health program for the families,Suarez called on all those present in the occassion to give priority attention to the needy because they are the first to receive their health requests. He also assured to support the hospitalization of any QFBHW member who gets sick because they have allocated funds for this. Groceries,appliances, medical supplies and P20,000 worth of gift certificates were raffled for the participants during the convention, courtesy of the Suarez family.(PIA _Quezon 1st QUATERLY RDCC TWG MEETING HELD Speaking on behalf of P/CSUPT. PROSPERO C. NOBLE, JR., Regional Director PRO IV-A/Chairman- RDCC IV-A CALABARZON, P/SSUPT ROBERT PADILLA, Deputy Regional Operations Commander welcomed the TWG members to its meeting and expressed his gratitude for the relentless support and unselfish dedication to duty of its members despite lack of material and financial support. Tackled were weather prognosis for CY 2006; the looming threat of La Nina/El Nino phenomena presented by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA); hazard mapping presented by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-MGB); and the status of Avian Influenza Virus or Bird Flu in the country presented by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) whose main concern is to make our country Bird-flu free. The TWG members, likewise reviewed the functions of the different committees (mitigation, preparedness, response and rehabilitation) in which the Philippine Information Agency is a member agency of all committees mentioned. RDCC IV-A Director Armando Duque also reiterated the need of a wel-laid out plan of action in times of disaster/calamities. The meeting was presided over by Dir. Duque and was attended by various government agency members from all over CALABARZON area. PGL SUPPORTS BLOOD-LETTING PROGRAM The activity aims to make donated blood available to needy and poort recipients in times of emergency. It was the first of a series undertaken by the joint effort of Sulong Laguna Movement; Guardian Brotherhood, Inc.; Sagip Tahanan sa Laguna (TSL); Disciplined Servant Crime Buster Brotherhood, Inc.; Laguna Ready Reserved Battalion and Ningning ng Kabataan thru the support of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC- Laguna Chapter) and the Provincial Government of Laguna (PGL) headed by Governor Teresita "Ningning" S. Lazaro. The blood letting activity, participated in by NGOs members as donors, was supervised by volunteer doctors thru the courtesy of the PNRC- Laguna Chapter headed by its OIC, Mr. Eryl Agus. Mr. Agus said that this program will be regularly conducted in the different municipalities of Laguna involving other local government units (LGU's) to sustain blood supply from PNRC-Laguna Chapter./PIA-Laguna/alorti Promoting Sustainable Tourism in Oriental Mindoro To date, Mindoro’s tourism development and activities are concentrated in Puerto Galera considered as “one of the world’s most beautiful bays” and ranked as one of the top 10 diving sites in the country. This municipality acts as the core while rest of Oriental Mindoro serves as peripheral regions supplying manpower, food, and raw materials to name a few. The access created by the Port of Roxas as part of the Strong Republic Nautical Highway can help diffuse the concentration of tourism in Puerto Galera and serve as gateway to potential destinations in the Southern part, that is, Mansalay and Bulalacao. The province boasts of nature and cultural assets, which can be packaged as part of the tourism lops or circuits using the entry points of Puerto Galera, Calapan City, Pinamalayan and Roxas. There are quite a number of investment opportunities in the province given its endowments – both natural and human resources. These resources are well-positioned to emerging markets for wellness and ecotourism not only from the Philippines but also from our own natural tourism markets namely the balikbayans, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. There are opportunities to add capacity to the existing accommodation facilities for both mass and high value-adding markets. The different islands have an advantage to become family-oriented and wellness destinations. The inclusion of health and wellness in the BOI Investment Priorities Plan as well as in the upcoming framework from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority will likely open doors to new investments in the province. This is where product and service packaging as well as marketing is greatly needed by the industry. There are opportunities to enhance linkages among the local suppliers such as travel agents, resort owners, handicrafts as well as local government tourism offices to develop packages that are community-based, one that capitalizes on the existing resources and enhances the economic contributions. This is true particularly in communities outside of Puerto Galera. More importantly, there are opportunities to improve road, water and sea transport infrastructure to make the province benefit from tourism. Safety and security is a crucial component of the investment environment. (Source: Oriental Mindoro Investment Summit Executive Summary/ltcueto/pia-calapan) Gov. Lazaro declares war against drugs Knowing the ill effects of said drugs in terms of peace and order, economy and lives as well of her constitutents particularly the youth. The governor appealed to the public and likewise urges men in uniform to help in her fight not only in words but in action as she avowed priority in curbing this social menace before it is too late, she added. According to P/Supt. Raul L. Bargamento, regional director of PDEA 4-A, nearly 400 grams of shabu and marijuana including paraphernalia amounting to P1.8 M were burned in the presence of authorities and representatives of sector after due inspection and validation as required by RA 9165 known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002. Bargamento said that similar activities will be conducted in other districts as he claimed that Laguna Anti-Drug Abuse Council (LADAC) and the community are active partners in the implementation of programs anent to the prevention and control of drug abuse in the province. He also explained that their office is indulged in two complementing activities the SUPPLY REDUCTION which involves the enforcement of laws against prohibited drugs and DEMAND REDUCTION which involves awareness campaign being undertaken by PDEA's Preventive Education and Community Involvement Division. We owe to our partners and the community the conratulations of the local chief executive for a job well done cause their support are indespensable in all activities to possibly stamp out drug abuse in the locality, he dislcosed./PIA-LAGUNA Survey for the Profiling of Senior Citizen The program aims to establish a comprehensive data base profile of all senior citizens in variopus municipalities of Laguna to ensure accessibility and provisions of services to senior citizens and to cereate social awareness of older persons' issues and concerns. The program is in consonance with he implementation of Republic Act. No. 9257 otherwise known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003. In order to properly monitor its implementation, the Office of the senior Citizens' Affairs in coordination the DILG will conduct the survey. Said survey forms require senior citizens to fill in vital informations such as name, address, date of birth, place of birth, civil status, religion, ID No. (OSCA, TIN, GSIS, SSS, Philhealth). It also includes information on socio-economic needs of senior citizens which will be integrated in the Phil. Plan of Action for Senior Citizens, PPAC 2005-2010. PIA-MMIO Laguna Survey on Senior Citizens,set on May 2006 Lucena City- To produce comprehensive data base profile of all senior citizens in the whole of Quezon province, the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) is set to conduct its survey on May of this year. The survey will be undertaken with the cooperation of all local offices of the DSWD and the DILG. The survey will also enable the government to provide the senior citizens of the basic services and to help them cope up of their pressing problems. In the senior citizen survey form, members have to fill in their complete name, address,residence, date and place of birth,civil status,religion and ID number (OSCA/ TIN/GSIS or Philhealth) , family composition , course completed in college,source of income,real properties, areas of specialization, skills and problem/s that a member is currently experiencing. The survey is in pursuance to DILG Memo Circular No. 2006-21 dated February 24,2006. It is also aimed at monitoring the implementation of RA 9257 or the Expanded Senior Citizen Act of 2003. Relative to this , cooperation of all senior citizens in the province is being eyed for the success of the said survey.(PIA-Quezon/jhun) Transco SLOM and ABS-CBN Foundation unites for "Bantay Baterya Project" Pursuant to its objectives in environmental management , the Transco-South Luzon Operation and Maintenance(SLOM) have donated 639 pieces of used batteries worth P45,165 "appraisal value" to ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. SLOM Assistant Vice-Pres. Mr. Armando Buencamino, and Administration Manager Dr. Rene Ramas headed the distribution of the used batteries to the ABS-CBN 'Bantay Baterya Project',where, with the cooperation of the DENR-EMB and the Philippine Recyclers Inc. was aimed to free the environment of pollutants caused by worned-out batteries containing lead acid from carbon. The donated batteries came from the different facilities of the SLOM which has been declared unusable,worned-out and for disposal. ABS-CBN Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Environment Management Bueau/DENR and the Philippine Recyclers Inc., assuring that unusable batteries containing lead acid will be given to a DENR accredited lead acid battery recyclers. In September of 2005, Transco coordinated with the ABS-CBN Foundation through a MOA formalizing their support to the ABS-CBN Foundation's environmental project, with the aim of strengthening the Environment Responsibility Stewardship of the corporation.(PIA-Quezon/jun) PCA Quezon on alert of latest coconut disease Lucena City - Officials of the Philippine Coconut Authority here in Quezon province continues to conduct surveys on how to control completely the newest type of coconut disease observed here , known as "brontispa longgisima gentro". According to Nes Pujanes,Quezon-PCA Manager,other large coconut plantation in the second district and other parts of the province are now placed under observation upon learning that the said type of disease has been traced in the towns of Candelaria and Tiaong. Alerted by the occurrence of the disease,the PCA has created the Brontispa Action Team to survey how extensive the infestation of the said disease which is believed originated from the importation of Royal and Manila palm used in landscaping purposes. As a result, PCA officials called on all the coconut farmers to be more vigilant in their crops. They advised them to report any abnormalities in the plants so that they can immediately control the spread of such by spraying chemicals. Such abnormalities is the withering of newly forming leaves that could possibly be infested by "brontispa. Pujanes likewise said they've established quarantine checkpoint in some entry and exit points in the province ready to intercept and confiscate Manila and Royal palm being transported via the Maharlika highway here .(PIA-Quezon/jun) UCPB Grants P1.6B loan to Quezon Grains depot United Coconut Planters Bank has extended a P1.6Billion loan to National Granary Inc.(NGI) to finance the construction of Southeast Asia's biggest and most modern grains terminal. NGI,operator of a 10 hectare public grains terminal along the coast line of Tayabas Bay in Sariaya,Quezon,will use some 800 million pesos of the loan for the purchase of grains handling equipment from the United States and Europe. The remaining balance will be used to buy grains from both foreign and local producer. The Philippine Export-Import Credit agency guaranteed the loan. UCPB senior vice president for corporate and investment bank Sebastian Santiago III said the facility is scheduled to start commercial operation in the second quarter of this year . NGI's public grains terminal, which will be fully automated , will be the biggest in Southeast Asia with 14 silos and a flat warehouse that can store a total of 225,000 metric tons of grains. The facility will also have a deep water port that can accommodate cape-size ships used for transporting grains. It will have two ships that can unload 10,000 metric tons of grains a day. The automated grains handling facility can offload the grains from the ships in less than five days. The NGI grains terminal will serve corn producers and traders, feed millers and flour millers in the National Capital Region and the Calabarzon area. With its state of the art bulk shipment and cargo handling facility, local agribusiness men can export shorter travel time, lower shipping costs, shorter unloading time and reduced spoilage and pilferage.(Source-Benny Luzentales,Quezon Post) CASH FOR WORK PROGRAM FOR RESIDENTS OF REINA REAL,Quezon - Some 344 men affected by calamities in REINA area have benefitted from the program "Cash for Work" of the National Irrigation Administration. They will be paid P200 a day to rehabilitate irrigation systems which were badly affected by calamities that struck the area a year ago. Because of their residency near the said project ,the men were chosen to rehabilitate and to provide maintenance thereafter. The Cash for Work program which amounted to P4.8 million will be undertaken in three phase. First phase will cost about P638,2000 at barangays Lual, Miswa ,Silangan , Agos-Agos ,Pilaway, and Comon in the municipalities of Real and Gen. Nakar.(PIA-Quezon/jun) 75 FARMERS RECEIVED PNRC 'S LIVELIHOOD ASSISTANCE REAL,Quezon – 75 farmers from this municipality now used the carabao provided them by the Philippine National Red Cross as part of their livelihood project. Sen. Richard Gordon, Chairman and CEO of PNRC,said most of the beneficiaries are families who relied mostly from farming as their means of livelihood. He advises the farmers not to rely mostly on dole-outs but need to uplift their dignity and capacity to work as human with aspirations. He also encourage them to be a volunteer for Red Cross and to organize their own Barangay Disaster Action Team that will undertake action when calamities do happen. Next beneficiaries of the PNRC according to Sen. Gordon will be the fishermen who he said will be provided by 86 motorized bancas and fish nets.(PIA-Quezon/jun) Palace says Chacha opponents engaged in hypocrisy PIA-MMIO (April05)— “They say, they want people power, yet when the people exert their power, they are crushed the same elected officials who supposedly champion their cause.” The comment was made by Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye while pointing out that “opponents of Charter change are engaged in sweeping hypocrisy”. He clarified that these opponents of Constitutional amendments are only interested in political power, not people power. Meanwhile, the Sigaw ng Bayan movement has already received signatures more than the required 12 percent of the total number of voters in the country in support of the People’s Initiative to push a plebiscite that will amend the 1987 Constitution. (PIA-MMIO) PJCCI’s sentiment reinforces PGMA’s warning on political destruction PIA-MMIO (april05)— “The Japanese sentiment reinforces what the President has been saying all along: our opponents must stop the destruction and start building.” This was the statement of Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye after the Philippine-Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PJCCI) issued a statement citing too much politicking as the derailing factor of the Philippine economy. Despite the undying political disturbances, Bunye pointed out, President Arroyo has gotten the message of reform and acted on it. “The Arroyo administration has been on path to reform, the markets have given us a big boost of confidence in the actions we have taken to date”. Hence, Bunye added, the peso is up, the market is strong and the budget is under control amidst the issues being hurled against the Chief Executive. (PIA-MMIO) PGMA lauds Lower House for passing anti-terror bill MANILA (PIA-MMIO)—President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo lauded today the House of Representatives for passing the Anti-Terrorism Bill. The Chief Executive described the Lower House initiative as a “bold and unambiguous stand in the interest of national and global security”. She said the eyes of the world are focused on the valiant efforts of the Philippines to fight terror, and the passage of the anti-terror bill takes the fight a step higher. While the nation awaits the action of the Senate to do its part on the measure, President Arroyo reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to end the cycle of terror and constrict terrorist cells through all avenues of political action, law enforcement and international cooperation. The Chief Executive pointed out: “We stand beside the region and the world against this evil that twists the faith of its disciples and turns them into bombers and takers of innocent lives”. In describing the Lower Chamber’s action, President Arroyo also said: “The anti-terrorism bill is a preemptive legal strike intended to limit their space for maneuver and flight; and augurs well for the safety and well-being of our people as well as our neighbors and allies in the world”. (PIA-MMIO) Gov’t acted with firmness in dealing with the conspiracy—Bunye PIA-MMIO (April05)—Within the constitutional bounds, the government acted with firmness in dealing with the right-left conspiracy. Press Secretary Ignacio “Toting” Bunye issued the statement in defense of Presidential Proclamation 1017 and reassuring the public that the Arroyo government made the right and timely decision. Bunye, who is also the Presidential Spokesman, explained: “If the government did not deal decisively with the right-left conspiracy, the Senate would not have been able to conduct its hearings anymore because it was apparently part of the plot to close all democratic institutions in the country”, including Congress and the media”. Despite of the proclamation which briefly placed the nation under state of emergency, “democracy remains strong, and media remains free, because of the firm hand hat dealt with the conspiracy”. The Press Secretary also disclosed that evidence pointed to a right-left conspiracy out to stamp out the country’s democratic system and replace it with a junta composed of a hodgepodge of discredited politicians, leftist elements, misguided military adventurists and their civil society allies. (PIA-MMIO) 2006 Phil-Japan Youth Friendship Program accepting applicants The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is now accepting applicants for the 2006 Philippine-Japan Youth Friendship Program which will be implemented starting May 15, 2006. Officials from the DFA said this yearly program aims to promote friendly relations between the people of Japan and the Philippines. Participants are expected to acquire deeper knowledge and understanding of their respective fields of specialization through interaction with their Japanese counterparts. Nominations are accepted for three groups namely the ASEAN component group, the Single Country Group 1, both of which have March 15 as deadline for submission of applications and Single Country Group II deadline of which is on September 20, 2006. Applicants may come from various categories or fields of specialization such as education, environmental conservation, health and medical services, agriculture and information technology. The applicants should be Filipino citizens; 18 to 35 years old; directly engaged in the work related to the category/field applied for; physically and mentally fit; from the non-military sector; should not have, in principle, stayed in or visited Japan; holder of a valid passport (valid at least until December 2006); holder of a permanent position and has completed at least two years of service as permanent employee; and must have no pending application for scholarship under another study program. Requirements and other information may be obtained from Alex Maestrado, DFA, telephone number (02) 834-3163 and fax # (02) 833-1136 or from your nearest DFA or National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) offices. Application forms should be completely filled up and sent to Erlinda F. Basilio, Assistant Secretary, Northeast Asia Division, office of Asian and Pacific Afairs, DFA, 2330 Roxas Blvd., Pasay City. (EPGalang, PIA-Pampanga) Pampanga PDCC prepares for La Niña Members of the Pampanga Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) are preparing for the forthcoming La Niña months as they are determined to provide adequate and immediate response to any calamitous event in the province. Speaking during the recently held PDCC meeting at the Executive House of the provincial capitol, Fidel M. Arcenas, provincial administrator for Pampanga, said that the meeting is an opportune time for its members to plan and “come out with a disaster management program and integrate it with the day-to-day operations of local government units and agencies involved in disaster management program.” Arcenas said the province is known for being able to rise above various challenges as proven in the Mt.Pinatubo eruption experience. “Almost 15 years after the disaster, Pampanga, with the full support of local government units, government and non-government organizations, is now considered as one of the 10 most progressive provinces in the entire country,” Arcenas added. PDCC Executive Officer for Pampanga Armando Austria said that the council has mapped out a comprehensive plan for calendar year 2006 which aims to efficiently and effectively address and respond to disasters in the province. Austria said that among the pre-disaster programs lined up for the year are the conduct of seminar-workshops and capability building activities on disaster management for 528 local government officials; disaster preparation drills and exercises for students and employees; disaster response trainings for Rescue 21 members, volunteers and members of other government rescue organizations. The PDCC, according to Austria, through its concerned member-agencies will be providing mitigation support services and activities such as provision of vegetable seeds, high value commercial crops, fingerlings including purchase of pesticides and chemicals for affected farmers. Austria mentioned that sandbagging operations of vulnerable earthdikes/river embankments will be also be undertaken as well as construction, repair and rehabilitation of damaged dikes and farm-to-market roads brought about by previous typhoons. He added that pre, during and post disaster activities will be fully implemented in the province by member-agencies of the PDCC. In related developments, Agorico Nicdao of the provincial veterinary office, reported that the provincial avian influenza task force was recently created as municipal task forces were organized in the towns of Minalin, Mabalacat, Magalang, Candaba and the city of San Fernando. Nicdao said the other concerned municipalities of the province will organize their respective avian influenza task forces in the next months as he reported that simulation training workshops on avian influenza were conducted for municipal agriculture officers. The said PDCC meeting was participated in by heads and technical representatives of its member-agencies which include the Department of Agriculture, Office of Civil Defense, Department of Education, National Food Authority, Philippine Information Agency and other concerned non-government organizations. (Erlinda T. Yutuc, PIA-Pampanga) BCDA hails senate, House moves on tax incentives It will be recalled that the Supreme Court ruled July last year that only the former American base Subic can grant tax incentives under Republic Act 7227 of the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992. The SC recently denied the motion for reconsideration filed by BCDA and its subsidiaries. The denial of the BCDA motion meant that all the locators and investors will have to pay the normal corporate income tax rate of 32 percent instead of only five percent on gross income. Senator Ralph Recto will sponsor two bills that will restore the tax incentives now lost to the investors of Clark, John Hay and Poro Point. The first bill will amend RA 7227 explicitly stating that locators in BCDA’s subsidiaries – Clark, John Hay and Poro Point economic zones as well as future economic zones that will be created by the BCDA will enjoy a tax incentive of five percent of their gross income earned. The second bill will grant amnesty for all locators of the three economic zones from the time they put up shop until the amendments to RA 7227 takes effect. The tax amnesty aims to address the possible retroactivity of application of the taxes because of the Supreme Court decision. In short there will be no tax liabilities for locators who established their investments in the three economic zones of BCDA. Senators Franklin Drilon, Ralph Recto and Richard Gordon have authored several senate Bills to include John Hay and other BCDA-administered economic zones in the rationalization of incentives. The House of Representatives have also supported House Bill 4900 and 4901 authored by Tarlac solon Jesli Lapuz. The bills will provide remedial measures to address the tax incentives and duty – free stalemate in the former American military bases. BCDA President and CEO Narciso Abaya pointed out that “the passage of the bills will once and for all erase whatever uncertainty that will be left in the minds of our locators in Clark, John Hay and Poro Point. He added that “rather than look for other countries to put up shop and mull over about changing the rules in the middle of the game, they can now focus once again in enhancing their productivity and the possibility of expanding their business in the Philippines.” “This of course will translate to more jobs for our countrymen and also result in broadening the tax base for more revenues for government,” he further notes. (BCDA/PIA Tarlac) Special Project for Special Children Lucena City, – The Rotary Club of Lucena University District ,Rotary Club of South Pyungtaek and Rotary International jointly launched a project called "Matching Grant No. 58359 -Special Project for Special Children" at the Lucena East VII Elementary School this city last March 18,2006 . The program was aimed at helping students with disability in five schools here namely; Lucena East VII Elem. School,Lucena est I Elem. School,Dalahican Elem, School , Lucena City High School and Zaballero Elem. School. According to Ms. Lewi Tolentino, Past President and Community Service Director of the Rotary Club of Lucena University District, their clubs are set to provide materials to the said schools which she said will help to enhance the capabilities of the said students. School materials that will be provided for are books (Language for Little Learners, Reading, Mathematics ,Filipino, Writing and Coloring Book), cutting shears and tables ,television set,DVD/VCD player, VCD /Cassette player,Karaoke with Microphone , educational VCD tapes, computer sets, sports equipment like chessboard , volleyball , scrabble,basketball and badminton sets. The schools will also receive sewing machine and livelihood project such as "Chalk making project". The launching of the project was witnessed by officials of the The Rotary Club of Lucena University District led by its president ,Ms. Gloria O. Ramallosa, Rotary Club of South Pyungtaek , led by PE Hong In , teachers and officials of the DepEd Lucena City namely; Felix F. Avillo,OIC Asst. Schools Division Supt.;Mrs. Delia Jalbuena , ES 1-SPED/Pre-Elem/Private Schools, together with the different teachers and principals of the Lucena East VII and Lucena City High School.(PIA-Quezon/Ruel/Jun) Mayor Ramon Y. Talaga Promises school space for two colleges SLPC , CITY COLLEGE TO RISE AT GOV'T. CENTER Lucena City – Mayor Ramon Y. Talaga Jr. expressed willingness to provide Southern Luzon Polytechnic College,Lucena Branch and the City College of Lucena a space for their own building. Carmen Baron,Campus Director of SLPC-Lucena,acknowledges the school's partnership with the city government in the noblest objective of providing quality education despite the absence of its own building. With over 700 students today , SLPC-Lucena still uses the temporary building at the back of the City Hall Annex at Better Living Subdivision in Brgy. Isabang this city. Mayor Talaga assured the management of SLPC-Lucena of his continuous support and financial aid from the city government. SLPC-Lucban Branch used to shoulder all expenses of SLPC-Lucena during its infant stage until the city government provided two million pesos in aid to lessen the financial burden of said school. Talaga addded that SLPC-Lucena and the City College of Lucena are part of the master plan for the Government Center proposed for construction on a three hectare land provided by President Arroyo at the former Lucena Airport Property.(Source-PIO-Lucena/Lucena Herald) < PIA-Quezon/Jun> REP. SUAREZ PUSHES FOR AGRI-BUSINESS Suarez noted the suitability of Bondoc Peninsula's climate and topography for papaya production. He said he envisions to follow-up the success of the seaweeds industry in Bondoc Peninsula with a similar approach, but this time, with papaya production. This program is in line with President Arroyo's continuing efforts to generate jobs and provide livelihood to every Filipino. Suarez has also started looking at the potentials of Bondoc Peninsula in the production of milk and other dairy products. He revealed that he has actually been directing an ongoing study in the production of zebra, which he said is a good source of milk aside from cow. If ongoing studies bear positive results, Suarez may next distribute zebras after he had distributed goats among his constituents. Suarez envisions every barangay in his area to be a center of animal husbandry in the province. He stressed that local residents would need financial assistance to enable them to pursue what they learned in training programs on livelihood. He added that in Macalelon, Quezon a lot of women are already learning from seaweeds production under the Gender and Development Program. SMALL TOWN LOTTERY START OPERATION IN LUCENA CITY Lucena City - The first Small Town Lottery project of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office in the country was launched here just recently in lieu of the illegal numbers of "jueteng". After given the "green light", the authorized agent of PCSO in this province, Piroutte Corp made their first draw at 12:00 noon last Feb. 28 in the presence of Romualdo Quiñones, Special Project Development Manager;Liza Gabuyo, Southern Tagalog-Bicol Region Division Manager ,both of PCSO, and employees of Piroutte led by its president Jose Francis Gonzales. The first raffle draw of the STL was deluged by former "cabos and "kubrador" of jueteng who themselves were employed as sales agents and sales supervisors of Piroutte Corp. in their district office located at the corner of Enverga and Osmena Sts., this city. Gemi Formaran, president of Camp Nakar Press Corps,an association of mediamen in this city acted as the chairman of the 5-man board of judges for the ceremonial first raffle draw. The first winning combinastion drawned was the numbers 17-40 with one winner betting P1.50 for the said combination. According to Gonzales, around 30,000 former cabos and kubradors wereprovided Identification Card by Piroutte as proof of their employment with the company. Gonzales likewise denied rumors that the operation of STL will mean a front for the ressurection of jueteng. City Councilor Jose Asensi , chairman on committee on games and amusement , likewise witnessed the first draw and said that the city council has passed two resolutions endorsing the operation PCSO and Piroutte in the city , The provincial council meanwhile has likewise passed similar resolution led by Board Member Sonny Ubana( Source -Quezon Post) CALABARZON'S FIRST MARICULTURE PROJECT LAUNCHED IN PADRE BURGOS PADRE Burgos,Quezon – The first mariculture project for fishermenin the Calabarzon area was launched last week by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources(BFAR) in this coast,picture- pretty town.. BFAR Regional Director Malcom Sarmiento said Padre Burgos was chosen site of the first mariculture zone in Calabarzon because of its ideal location and other special features-- it has a cove surrounded by small islands which prevents big waves from entering the seashore. "The seawater is free flowing which is favorable to the growth of high breed species like Lapu-lapu, samaral, tanigue , salmon and tilapia," said Padre Burgos Mayor Dominador "Ding" Villena . Villena added that the municipal pier facilitates the transport and market of lapu-lapu and other high breed species to Metro Manila markets. The election of Padre Burgos as the first mariculture zone in the Calabarzon subregion has attracted several suppliers of fish meal into this town. In a related development, Rep. Danilo E. Suarez(3rd Dist.,Quezon) has started the free distribution of seaweeds to interested farmers in Barangay Dinlagan and other areas covered by the mariculture zone. "Seaweds farming is profitable and has a ready market in Metro Manila," said Rep. Suarez.(Source-Benny Luzentales,Quezon Post). PGMA RELEASES P27-M FOR QUIRINO HIGHWAY REPAIR Lucena City -Named after the late Pres. Elpidio Quirino , the Quirino Highway links Quezon to Camarines Norte and other Bicol provinces. The 32-kilometer highway starts at Calauag,Quezon and ends up at Del Gallego ,Camarines Sur. Recently, Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo,upon request of Department of Public Works and Highway Reg'l. Dir. Bonifacio Seguit, release the amount of P27 million pesos for the repair and maintenance of Quezon Highway. The amount was released to the DPWH 4th Engineering District under Dist. Engr. Ronnel M. Tan who said the President trusted so much the 4th Engineering District Office in maintaining the vital highway linking Quezon to the Bicol provinces. Engr. Tan said that since he assumed office in the district, a total of 25 laborers under a DPWH project engineer, supported by heavy equipment, have been permanently stationed to repair and rehabilitate the Quirino Highway. Tagkawayan Mayor Vicente Salumbides II has cited Engr. Tan's concern for the Quirino Highway whose field men have been working during holidays just to maintain the Quirino Highway and keep it passable to motorists from Bicol region..(Source-Benny Luzentales,Quezon Post). Mt. Banahaw still close for devotees DOLORES, Quezon-The Protected Area Management Board – Mt. Banahaw ,San Cristobal Protected Landscape(PAMB-MBSCPL) had advised anew all devotees who used to flocked for pilgrimage at Mt. Banahaw and San Cristobal during Lenten Season that climbing is still prohibited in the said area. The temporary closure on some parts of the said mountains was based on PAMB resolution No. 01-2004 penned on March 2004 ordering the closure for five years.Among the place ordered prohibited for devotees are the three lagoons,known as "Tatlong Tangke", the "Yapak" ,where a large footprints of Jesus Christ was supposed etched , the Cristalino Falls , the famous "Durungawan" ,"Kinabuhayan" and "Kalbaryo". These areas are the most visited by foreign as well as local tourist and devotees. This action was based on the petition submitted by the local residents to the 1st Banahaw de Dolores Multisectoral Workshop of the Municipal Agriculture and Fisheries Council and Ugnayan ng mga Namumundok para sa Mount Banahaw because of fear that the area would be desecrated and its cultural value , lost or become filthy. Other reason cited by the petitioners is that the mountain is being contaminated or toxicated by trashes littered by some 500,000 pilgrimages that climbed the area each year. Another reason for the temporary closure was to protect Mt. Banahaw against man made destruction because it is where the source of water of all municipalities surrounding it came from.(PIA/Jun/Ruel) MORE THRUST ON LIVELIHOOD PROGRAMS "MORE THRUST ON LIVELIHOOD PROGRAMS" Padre Burgos, Quezon Feb.26,2006 - Twenty-one members of the Rural Improvement Club (RIC) who were part of the baking class and another 54 who trained in slipper-making hurdled the training course after five months of training. Six barangays participated in the program. They were San Vicente, Marquez , Poblacion, Kinagunan Ilaya, Kinagunan Ibaba and Hinguiwin. Those who completed the training program expressed their thanks to the Provincial Agriculturist's Office. Mayor Dominador T. Villena for his part, also relayed his thanks to those who supported the program. Councilor Pablito S. Flores of the Committee on Agriculture assured the local government's continuous support to livelihood programs for women. Municipal Agriculturist's Senen Tamesis announced that 270 thousand pesos has been set aside by the municipal government for livelihood programs, in general. Among those who attended the event were Joselito M. Bunyi, Supervising Agriculturist,Extension Division, and Melinda M. Amandy, Provincial FHRM Coordinator.(Source-OPA-Information & Training Unit) -(Prepared by JCMII-PIA Quezon) Oyster,Tilapia,Seaweds productions " Oysters,tilapia,seaweeds productions " Lucena City -The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist(OPA Quezon) is pursuing its program on the production of seaweeds, oyster and tilapia across the province of Quezon to generate more jobs for farmers and provide additional livelihood. This was announced recently by Prov'l. Agriculturist Domingo Mamasig in an interview conducted recently by Ruel M. Orinday of PIA Quezon. Mamasig said that seaweeds production is continuously being implemented in the towns of Pagbilao , Mauban, Panukulan, Polillo,Burdeos,Patnanungan,Jomalig,Perez, Calauag, Padre Burgos, Agdangan, Pitogo and macalelon. Oyster production , on the other hand , is the main thrust in Pitogo, Padre Burgos and Pagbilao. Meanwhile, tilapia production is being cultivated in Tayabas , Mauban,Pagbilao, Lucban, Dolores,Real, Infanta ,General Nakar,Sampaloc, Sariaya, Macalelon and San Francisco. Bamboo tree planting along river banks is being implemented in the Reina area of Real, Infanta and General Nakar . Mamasig encouraged interested parties who want to inquire or seek assistance on said programs to come to their office for any help they can offer. Such activities are in line with President Arroyo's objective to provide sustainable and long term livelihood assistance to every Filipino in need.( JCMII/RMO -PIA Quezon) Situationer Mega Manila Information Office Quezon Information Center Benigno S. Aquino Social Hall Bldg., Gov. Mansion Compd., Brgy. 8, Lucena City S I T U A T I O N E R March 8 , 2006 Call PIA at (042) 660-7783 Buenavista,Quezon -Six unidentfied men barged into the house of a businessman here and take away more than a million pesos last Monday morning. In a report received by Sr. Supt. Victorio Caragan,Quezon PNP director, the victim was one Dante Salvan, 45 ,a prominent businessman here . Taken from Salvan was P1 million cash,jewelries and valuable house items. The report said that the incident took place at around 7:30 Monday morning where suspects, armed with guns ordered the victim and house companions to lie down while two house helpers were locked in a comfort room. Two other suspects act as lookouts outside the house. As the suspects fled the house, they stopped two passenger jeepneys passing in front of the victim's house and takeaway from the two drivers their cellphone and cash amounting to P1000. While the suspects escaped riding in two motorcycles,they also flagged down a passing Isuzu Pick-up with plate no. VHV 421 driven by one Ernesto Medez and take away two more cellphones and P2 0,000 cash from the victims. The getaway motorcycles bearing plate PQ7914 was recovered by police authorities in Brgy. San Vicente this municipality after being abandoned by the suspects.(Source-Danny Estacio Balita correspondence) Noted by: Joselito M. Giron Quezon - Infocen Manager Prepared by : Jose C. Mendoza II Administrative Aide 6 TCA venutres into Macademia Nuts production CAMILING, Tarlac – What is macadamia? It is a tropical nut tree of versatile uses. It is known as Queensland nut, Australian nut or bush nut. Its origin is Southern Australia and grows as medium tree. The region of production is in Southern Australia, Southern California and Hawaii. (P) Consider the following facts about macadamia: Macadamia nuts are based materials for chocolates and beverages; currently it costs about P600-P800 per kilo in European markets; macadamia flowers are based-material for perfumeries as these are more potent than ylang ylang and sampaguita; seedlings cost about P1,500 a piece, and macadamia handwood is ideal for novelties and handicrafts; the tree is drought resistant and good forest cover. (P) Presently, the Philippines is a non-player in the macadamia industry, now expanding in the Asian region. (P) Tarlac College of Agriculture (TCA) President Philip B. Ibarra said that looking ahead in the field of research and economic opportunities, TCA entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Philippine Macadamia Corporation to promote, establish, and develop a macadamia-based agro-farming system. (P) Dr. Rodolfo Demo-os, project proponent, said that the groundwork for macadamia must be established within five years for the Philippines to be competitive in the future market. The venture, in effort, placed TCA the lead gov’t agency in the Philippine in macadamia production. (P) So far, 100 macadamia nut trees have been planted at the sloppy portion of the TCA campus to showcase area development. (P) Planted last May 2005, the seedlings, accordingly, have survived the worst of the dry season and presently growing fairly. (P) Project-in-charge Mrs. Leonides Tapiru and Mr. Danilo Corpuz said that although macadamia trees are drought resistant, watering is still a must especially during its early growing stage. “We need to exert extra care for these young trees not only because a seedling cost about P1,500 a piece but in a way is a special project which must succeed under our stewardship”, Mrs. Corpuz emphasized. The initial area planted to macadamia trees is expected to become source of seedlings for expansion. (P) Meanwhile, the Bureau of Agriculture Research of the Department of Agriculture (DA) gave a grant of P186,000 for the rapid multiplication of macadamia seedlings through tissue culture. (P) In a project proposal submitted to DA-BAR by Dr. Demos-os, the initial success of the establishment of young nut trees within TCA campus guarantees source of colonial tips for propagation. The mass propagation will ensure the expansion of macadamia based-farming systems. (P) Ms. Agnes Perey, tissue culture specialist reported that promising results on tip culture has been observed in the laboratory trials. “Within five years, TCA will become macadamia technology center,” Dr. Demos-os said. (PIA MMIO/Enya) SOLCom backs PGMA Lucena City - Lt/Gen. Pedro Cabuay, Commanding General of the Southern Luzon Command assures President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of their loyalty to her administration. Cabuay made the assurance during a press conference held recently at the SOLCOM headquarter here. "The SOLCOM will follow the chain of command as well as the President being the Commander -In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines." Meanwhile, local residents were surprised by the arrival of 35 military trucks from the 76th Infantry Batallion last Friday that General Cabuay quickly clarified as normal military practice. In a related development, Gen. Cabuay also assured that the left leaning groups will fail in their attempt to overthrow the government despite the discovery of an alliance between the Magdalo soldiers and the CPP/NPA. PRC conducts legal workshop Commissioner Renato Valdecantos charts the direction of administrative proceedings of the Professional Regulation Commission in a seminar workshop involving top officials and a hundred board examiners today at the Development Academy of the Philippines, Tagaytay City. The seminar workshop ends on Friday. Valdecantos and his staff developed the program in order to focus on factors that impede the speedy disposition of cases filed against erring board examinees and professionals and measures to eliminate or minimize the impediment. "We should be able to harness all opportunities and experiences involving the conduct of administrative cases in the central and regional offices that would facilitate the termination of cases through a more creative and purposeful strategy." Valdecantos said. PRC Chairperson Leonor Tripon-Rosero earlier ordered the review of the Commission's legal process when a statistical study showed the apparent delay in disposing of cases and the measures of addressing the delivery. Aside from Rosero and Valdecantos, lecturers for the workshop include Atty. Pharson Mamalo who will report on the status of PRC legal cases. Mr. Godofredo illut on records keeping, Atty. Diosdado Lalusis on Regulatory Laws, Atty. Aristogerson Gesmundo on Proposed Amendments on Administrative Investigations, and Atty. Vladimir Pelaez on sample landmark cases. Commissioner Avelina De La Rea will make the opening remarks while Chairperson Rosero will deliver an inspirational message. Valdecantos said PRC legal officers may have to undergo some 'adjustment' as the the planning workshop will focus no only on a re-familiarization with the PRC Rules of Procedure but also with the various Professional Regulatory Laws and the Rules of Court. He added that they incorporated a presentation on the time and motion study on case hearings to show the delay in search of solutions and therefore step up the current pace of revolving cases. The participants including PRC Regional Directors and their legal staff, are expected to undergo mock trial workshops and decision writing skills on the second day of the seminar. The PRC workshop was organized by the Office of Valdecantos, in charge of PRC Regulations and Legal Affairs. Domingo Rico ng Bongabong, PAGCOR Sports Idol ng bansa Ganyan ang naging panuntunan ni Domingo Rico, Jr., 16 na taong gulang at nasa ikalawang taon sa sekondarya sa Eastern Mindoro College sa Bongabong upang maabot niya ang pinapangarap na maging isang magaling na manlalaro. Siya ang kinikilala ngayong PAGCOR Sports idol. Si Domingo o kilala sa palayaw na Tots ay anak nina Domingo Rico, Sr. at Janeth Rico, panglima sa pitong magkakapatid, at ipinanganak sa Barangay Kaligtasan, Bongabong. Dala ng kahirapan sa buhay ay minsan na silang nanirahan sa Baguio City, ang hometown ng kanyang ina na kung saan nag-taxi driver ang kanyang ama. Dito rin nag-Grade I hanggang Grade V si Tots. Bata pa lamang si Tots, nangangarap na siyang matutong maipagtanggol ang sarili mula sa mga nang-aapi. Sa gitna ng kanyang pagsusumikap na matupad ang pangarap, biglang nagkaroon ng balakid upang madali niyang matupad ang kanyang pinapangarap nang maaksidente ang kanyang ama. Ayon kay Tots, dumating sa puntong hindi na ito makalakad at hindi na rin makapaghanapbuhay. Labis na kalungkutan ang pag-aalala ang nadama ng batang si Tots sa kalagayan ng kanilang pamilya. Dahil likas na responsableng anak, napilitan si Tots na doblehin ang kanyang oras upang kumita para ipangtustos sa pang-araw-araw na gastusin hindi lamang ng kanyang sarili kundi ng kanyang pamilya. Natigil siya ng isang taon sa pag-aaral. Naranasan niyang mag-carwash sa Baguio. Nang sila’y bumalik na sa Bongabong, tuloy pa rin ang pagtatrabaho sa gitna ng kanyang murang edad. Ayon kay Tots, tuwing hapon ay nagwe-waiter siya hindi lamang sa isang restaurant sa Bongabong kundi sa bayan ng Roxas ay dumadayo rin siya sa pagwe-waiter sa mga catering services. Tuwing Sabado at Linggo naman ay inilalaan niya ang kanyang panahon sa pagtuturo ng taekwondo sa mga batang may hilig dito. Sa ganitong buhay ay nagawang lampasan ni Tots ang mga balakid sa kanyang pangarap at hindi naman naging mailap sa kanya ang pagkakataon. Unang nakita ang galing ni Domingo sa taekwondo nang mapasali siya sa PFBR Friendship Game noong 1998 kung saan nakakuha siya ng silver medal. Hanggang sa mapasama siya sa koponan ng mga manlalaro na lumaban sa Batang Pinoy 2002 sa Bacolod City. Sa palarong ito, gold medal ang kanyang naiuwing karangalan. At sa palarong Pambansa ay muli na naman siyang napasama kung saan marami sa kanyang nakuhang karangalan ay gintong medalya. At nito ngang nakalipas na taon ng 2005, naramdaman niyang sinimulan nang subaybayan ang kanyang laban hanggang sa final round. Hanggang sa makasama siya sa piniling 20 manlalaro mula sa Taekwondo Competition sa buong bansa na maglalaban para sa titulong PAGCOR Sports Idol. Matapos na makakuha ng 20 candidates para rito ay humirang ng Top 3 kung saan nakasama pa rin si Tots. At mula nga sa tatlo, nahirang si Tots at ngayo’y kinikilala na bilang PAGCOR Sports Idol. Kamakailan lang ay napanood sa buong bansa sa Channel 9 nang ipinagkaloob kay Tots ang kanyang premyo bilang PAGCOR Sports Idol. Ngayon, kabi-kabila ang imbitasyon na kanyang natatanggap mula sa iba’t ibang sports commission hindi lamang sa Pilipinas kundi sa ibang bansa at kabilang na nga rito ang imbitasyon mula sa bansang Korea. Umaasa naman si Tots na susuportahan siya ng pamahalaang lokal upang katawanin niya hindi lamang ang Oriental Mindoro kundi ang bansang Pilipinas sa oras na lumaban siya sa ibang bansa. Ayon kay Rico, disiplina ang tanging naging puhunan niya upang makamit ang naturang titulo. Ito rin ang naging payo niya sa mga kapwa niya manlalaro na nangangarap ring makakuha ng katulad na titulo. Kaya naman kay Tots, pagpupugay ang ipinahahatid ng sambayanang Mindoreño sa nakamit niyang tagumpay lakip ang dalanging higit niya pa itong mapagbuti sa mga kinakaharap niyang laban pagdating sa ibang bansa. Minsan pang napatunayan ANG GALING NG MINDOREÑO! (PIA-Oriental Mindoro Infocen/louie: Source: Provincial Information Office) Palace renews call for PGMA’s detractors to join Cha-Cha debate MANILA (PIA—MMIO) – Instead of engaging in personal attacks against President Arroyo and her administration, Malacañang said the President’s detractors should take part in the debate on the fundamental changes in the political system. Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye stressed that the Filipino people has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to change the flawed political system and the people should not let it pass. “Charter Change is a campaign promise of the President and we appreciate our allies who are fighting for its fulfillment,” he reiterated. Meanwhile, the Secretary pointed out that a combined economic and political take off will lift the Philippines to unprecedented heights. (PIA—MMIO) Command conference part of AFP’s quarterly report to PGMA MANILA (PIA—MMIO) – In a press statement, Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye clarified that the recent command conference in Malacañang is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)’s quarterly report to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Bunye revealed the said conference highlighted the continuing gains in the battle against terrorism and insurgency driven by a strong and unified chain of command as AFP Commanders vowed as one to match the nation’s economic gains with a big push on the law and order front; and to give no quarter to terrorists, insurgents and military fugitives. “Anti-government forces are losing their relevance amidst sustained government efforts in battling social, economic and political ills through fundamental reforms that are gaining ground.” The Secretary stressed professionalism, discipline and morale of the troops remain strong, thus, making the Armed Forces impervious to adventurist threats. “The national leadership is on top of the situation and there is no cause for apprehension or alarm,” Bunye added. (PIA—MMIO) PGMA elated over RP’s upgradeon US anti-piracy watchlist MANILA (PIA—MMIO) – President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is elated over the country’s upgrade in the US anti-piracy watch list. This, after the Philippines was removed from the Special 301 list of the United States on countries that do not provide adequate copyright protection. The Chief Executive said Filipino excellence in all fields will be protected in the long run by our adherence to global intellectual property standards, which intend to keep on improving until the nation is finally out of the list. “Fighting piracy is fighting poverty because it enables Filipino excellence and enterprise to rise in the global arena, expanding opportunities and jobs along the way.” She also stressed upholding IPR promotes diffusion of knowledge, develops local talent and creativity, and at the same time encourages more foreign investors to endow their strong qualities to the Philippine market. Meanwhile, the President cited the help of civil society and private groups in the vigilant campaign against piracy and pointed out that the Filipino nation must not relent in its combined efforts. “We are matching gains in the economy with a strong drive in the law and order front and we expect this to multiply confidence, investments and jobs,” she added. (PIA—MMIO) DOH, DA on guard for avian flu -- Bunye MANILA (PIA--MMIO) – As the world closely monitors the spread of the deadly avian flu or bird flu, Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye has assured the nation that the country’s Departments of Health and Agriculture remain on guard for the deadly disease. This, as the deadly virus that infects chickens, poultry, wild birds, and even human beings continue to infest countries around the globe. Bunye, who is also the Press Secretary, meanwhile, enjoined local governments, community health workers, NGOs, environmental organizations, schools and private sector companies t join hands in raising public awareness about bird flu. (PIA--MMIO) Malacañang elated over local officials response on Cha-cha MANILA (PIA--MMIO) – In the light of the controversial Constitutional amendments being pushed by the Arroyo government for the welfare of the greater population and the future of the Filipino nation, Malacañang expressed appreciation for the positive reception and action of local officials on the issue. Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye echoed the Palace’s citation for the response of local officials to the need for fundamental change in the political system. Bunye, who is also the Presidential Spokesman, said the local officials deal directly with the people and have a fee for what the people want and need. “This is a bottoms-up exercise.” he stressed. Meanwhile, the Secretary announced that the Department of Interior and Local Government could facilitate public awareness of Charter change, but clarified that it will not interfere with the freedom of choice of the people. (PIA--MMIO) Palace reiterates disbursement of Marcos fund in order MANILA (PIA--MMIO) – For the nth time, Malacañang reiterated again that the disbursements in relation to the release of the Marcos fund are in order. “Records do not lie!” Thus stressed Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye in reaction to reports that the controversial recovered Marcos loot was allegedly misused. “Proceeds from the Marcos wealth were used solely to guarantee the full implementation of the CARP law and the paper trail is clear,” Bunye pointed out. (PIA--MMIO) Executive will work with other branches;but to shield itself against attacks – Bunye MANILA (PIA--MMIO) – In a press statement, Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye assured the nation that the Executive Department will be prepared to work with other branches of government in serving the public’s interest. This, following President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s willingness to recall the controversial Executive Order No. 464 subject to the lawmakers agreement on guidelines of treating Cabinet and executive department officials in congressional hearings. Despite this, Bunye, who is the Press Secretary, clarified that Malacañang reserves the right to shield itself in cases of unjust attacks. In related development, the Supreme Court shall begin hearing the petitions on the constitutionality of EO 464 a week from now which the Palace earlier welcomed to end qualms on the issue. (PIA--MMIO) PGMA is for truth; to defend Ultra victims – Bunye MANILA (PIA--MMIO)— “President Arroyo is out for the truth and to defend the victims (of Ultra tragedy) who cannot defend themselves.” This was the firm statement of Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye as he defended the President’s personal view on the issue and dumped claims of persecution and harassment against the WOWOWEE organizers. Bunye said it is clear from the first hand account of the victims and the narration of facts from the outcome of the official probe, this tragic incident could have been prevented if proper crowd control measures and coordination with proper authorities were made by the event organizers. Meanwhile, the government is coming up with measures to prevent the repeat of similar events; and the public can be sure that the accountability of everyone – the organizers, the local government, and the local PNP – shall be looked into. The Secretary added the families of the victims will obtain justice from Arroyo government, and that no amount of propaganda from affected interests will drive the Palace officials back. (PIA--MMIO) Malacañang reiterates appreciation on business sector, credit rating agencies MANILA (PIA--MMIO)— Amidst Washington’s attention on the gains being reaped by the country through the leadership and effort of the Arroyo government, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye reiterated the Palace’s appreciation on the confidence of the business sector and the fairness of some credit rating agencies. “The country’s economy has clearly proven its resilience.” Bunye, who is also the Presidential Spokesman, said with the help of allies in Asia and the west, the Philippines can sustain the momentum of its gains. He stressed President Arroyo is determined to have the Philippines play a key role in regional economic development and security and partnership with its allies. The Secretary pointed out this is equally important in uplifting poor Filipinos and bringing them to threshold of a better life. (PIA--MMIO) Palace confident Congress will thresh out differences MANILA (PIA--MMIO)—“We are now focused on advancing the issues of Charter change through a nationwide advocacy campaign; and we are confident that Congress will be able to thresh out the difference between the House and the Senate in the spirit of consensus and statesmanship.” This was the statement issued by Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye following the House of Representatives declaration of war against the Senate on constitutional amendments and the pushing through of the proposed Charter changes in a joint session even with a number of senators in attendance. Bunye, who is also the Presidential Spokesman, said the smooth flow of the whole process of amending the Constitution must be worked upon in the interest of the Filipino people who have been longing to see the country move forward. He added that the nation can ride on the momentum of the gains by joining hands in shaping a more prosperous and stable Philippines. (PIA--MMIO) Gov’t taking mixed outlook on positive side MANILA (PIA—MMIO)—“We take the mixed outlook on the Philippines on the positive side,” Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye quipped. The Palace’s reaction was issued in response to two dissimilar outlooks on the Philippines of two major credit ratings firms. Bunye, who is also the Presidential Spokesman, said the nation is off to a good start and all that the government can do is sustain its focus and keep on tract the economic blueprint. “It is important to note that the outside world is focused on the Philippine economy and not on the noise of Philippine politics. This is aligned with our prime focus on investments and jobs,” he pointed out. Bunye expressed appreciation for Standard and Poor’s acknowledgement of the significant headway that the government has achieved in fiscal consolidation while noting exception to the negative outlook accorded by Moody’s that will serve as a challenge for the country to build on its solid gains in improving revenue base and eventually reducing significantly the debt levels. (PIA—MMIO) # World-Class Competition ‘Windsurfing Open’ isasagawa sa Puerto Galera City of Calapan – Nakatakdang isagawa ang Windsurfing Open sa Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro ngayong Pebrero 24-26. Ayon kay Cecile Foja-Quinto, secretary ng Tourism Sector Coordinating Association (TOSCA), ito ay lalahukan ng humigit-kumulang sa 50 amateur at professional board sailors ng bansa na magpapakita ng kanilang world-class windsurfing routine at techniques. Ang Puerto Galera Windsurfing Open ay magsisilbing panimula ng taunang windsurf competition sa nabanggit na tourist destination sa lalawigan ng Oriental Mindoro. Layunin ng nasabing sports event na mapaangat hindi lamang ang turismo ng Puerto Galera, kundi mahasa ang talento at galing ng mga atleta ng Pilipinas, gayundin maging daan ito upang makadiskubre ng future athletes. Ayon pa kay Quinto, ang patimpalak na ito ay gaganapin sa Puerto Galera Bay, lugar na kung saan ito ay idineklarang one of the World’s Beautiful Bays ng isang international organization na nakabase sa bansang France. Ito, ani Quinto, ay inaasahan ding lalahukan ng mga atleta at iba pang sports enthusiasts na magmumula sa ibang bansa. Ang Puerto Galera Windsurfing Open ay proyekto ng TOSCA na nagsusulong ng isang makakalikasan at sustainable tourism ng nasabing bayan. Kaagapay ng TOSCA sa nasabing sports event ang Board Sailing Federation. Samantala, ang mga bumubuo ng Board of Trustees ng TOSCA ay ang mga sumusunod: Chairman, Kit A. Garong; President, Melo P. Garcia; Secretary, Cecile Foja-Quinto; Treasurer, Julius L. Katigbak; Membership, Ven dela Peña; Marketing & Promotions, Vic E. Atienza; Training and Education, July A. Lopez. (PIA-Oriental Mindoro Infocen) PGMA awards AFP personnel in Sta. Ignacia STA. IGNACIA, Tarlac – Thirteen members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel were awarded recently with gold cross medals by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for their acts of courage and gallantry in action during a series of armed encounters against the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Namnama that left 18 NPA members dead. Held at Sitio Namnama of Barangay Sta. Ines West in the town of Sta. Ignacia, Tarlac, the award ceremony were witnessed by Secretary Mike Defensor, Governor Jose V. Yap, Sta. Ignacia Mayor Reynaldo Modomo, Tarlac City Mayor Genaro Mendoza in from of some 500 AFP personnel. According to Lt. Col. Gregory Cayetano, cell sites in Sta. Ignacia were also targeted by the NPAs but due to intelligence reports, it was anticipated. (PIA-MMIO/Enya) View From the Palace by Ignacio R. Bunye Those who seek to divide the Armed Forces of the Philippines have nothing good in mind for this nation. Our soldiers are engaged in a battle against the forces of the revolutionary NPA and they need all the political and moral backup we can give them for their mission. We call for a halt in these insidious efforts to politicize the AFP that only abet the struggle of the enemy. Our soldiers bear a strong allegiance to Constitution and chain of command and this must remain unsullied at all times. *** The President has instructed the energy department to seek a written explanation from the oil companies justifying the new round of price increases. We must ensure that there is a clear justification for such increases in accord with the situation in the world market. Meantime, the series of oil price hikes should serve as a constant reminder to all sectors –public and private - of the need to conserve our precious fuel. The situation also strengthens the administration’s resolve to further boost its efforts to search for alternative energy sources. For its part, Congress would do well to act soonest on pending energy bills including the one providing incentives for the production of ethanol and biodiesel. *** We are for a constructive working relationship between the legislative and executive branches. We believe that all outstanding issues, especially one as important as the budget, can be resolved through statesmanship and consensus. Legislative-executive cooperation for the national interest is our goal. Executive Order 464, however, will remain in effect especially for legislative inquiries which are deemed unproductive and clearly motivated by self-serving politics. *** Good news is on the horizon as the peace talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front makes it to the final stretch. Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jess Dureza and Peace Panel Chief Negotiator Silvestre Afable are optimistic that a peace deal is achievable within the year. A formal peace agreement will mean the end of the MILF’s 28-year separatist rebellion. The international community believes such an agreement is vital to regional peace and stability as this would close the doors on foreign terrorists who wish to convert southern Philippines into their training ground. An end to decades-old conflict in Mindanao will also lead to its economic rejuvenation and a new renaissance of rich Islamic culture and traditions. Some of the most pristine, scenic places can be found in the islands of Mindanao. Tourism will certainly be a key source of jobs and income for Mindanaoans once a peace deal is signed. *** Former United States Vice President Al Gore is an example of a leader who does not have to hold public office in order to influence decision-makers all over the world. Mr. Gore has been traveling extensively to speak on the dangers facing our environment, particularly on the threat of global warming. Whether or not one agrees with Mr. Gore's message, he must be given credit for doing his own research, and writing and speaking consistently on this issue. Mr. Gore is reportedly so protective of his copyright over his materials that no audio or video recording was allowed at his recent RCBC Plaza speech, and no printed copies were given out. *** Our communications group had a fruitful, enjoyable and relaxing weekend workshop at Subic and for this we have to thank a lot of people. After the workshop, some of the ex-future Tiger Woods chose to play golf. Others opted for the Zoobic Safari (where one gets to within breathing distance of ferocious tigers) followed by the Ocean Adventure, and capped by a relaxing sunset cruise to and from the serene Grande Island. We would like to thank the following who went all out in welcoming us: SBMA Chair Fil Salonga, Administrator Armand Arreza and his staff, Gina C. Agustin, Sep Ruiz, Badette Pacambra, Charlie and Armie Llamas. Freeport Service Corporation: Gen. Jose Calimlim and his staff Alex Allan and Didet Danguilan Santiago. SBMA Tourism Office staff: Milbert Adlawan, Marlon Montero, Cesar Paronda. SBMA Law Enforcement Department Staff: Rowin Valencia, Archie Garcia, Edgardo Fajardo, Bong Tocayon, Edwin Natividad and Charlie Lacuesta. Subic International Hotel: Dr. James Dy, Dading Clemente, Mike Wilson, Danny Tan, Angelito Filamor, Bong Aranda, Christine Ibanez, Diosdado Zita. Grande Island: Owner Robin Tan, Manager Thomas Lee, Francis Elum, Felman Sibulo, Romeo Mangiliman. Ocean Adventure: Pres. John Concoran, VP Tim Desmond and V. Trinidad. Indeed, we can say without fear of contradiction that in Subic, business and pleasure can, and do mix. Note: Past articles may be viewed at http://www.news.ops.gov.ph/palace_bunye.htm RP continues to reap gains amidst political, economic challenges MANILA (PIA-MMIO) – Despite the economic and political challenges confronting the nation, the Philippines is continuously reaping gains as the Arroyo government leads the country with solid, measurable, and time-bounded economic programs. This, amidst the surge in oil prices in the world market, rise in US Fed firm from one percent to 4.2 percent, low performance of TBL, and the political noise and turmoil thrown against the present administration by its critics. In fact, the peso remains strong and top ranked in Asia since January 2004 because of the good fundamental established by the Arroyo administration while the competitiveness of Filipino labor registered 4rth in the global market through its Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) as overseas Pinoys mark the biggest boosting in the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GPD). Domestically, the call center business have invested in the country at least US $1billion dollars in 2005, ranking second to India, and projected to increase to US $5 billion in 2010. Likewise, business confidence in the local economy surged in view of the fiscal reforms implemented by the Arroyo government that resulted in the increase of Philippine bond prices to 20 percent, Standard and Poor’s upgrade ratings, Physix performance ranking as second best in Asia in two consecutive years, increase of five folds in portfolio inflows, two folds in FDI, Philippine Economic Zone Authority approval, and the bouyant export demand led by electric resurgence. (PIA—MMIO) PAHAYAG ng ODDG-Basic Sectors ng National Anti-Poverty Commission PIA--MMIO NCR (02/08/06) Pitumpu't apat (74) ang namatay, anim na raan at pitumpu't lima (675) katao ang nasaktan sa naganap na stampede sa ULTRA nitong nakaraang February 4, 2006. Marami sa mga nasaktan ay nananatiling nasa mga pagamutan, samantalang ang iba ay nasa mga tahanan, pinipilit na makabangon mula sa masamang karanasan ng trahedya. Naniniwala ang batayang sektor na ang bawat isa sa atin ay may responsibilidad sa naganap na trahedya: ang mamamayan, pulitiko, at pribadong sektor. Naniniwala kamim na ang kailangan ngayon ay hindi ang pagtuturuan ng sisi. Ang kailangan sa ngayon ay ang pagtitiyak na magkakaroon ng hustisya ang pagkamatay ng marami nating kababayan, ang paghahanap ng hustisya sa pamamagitan ng paglutas sa ugat ng problema at hindi ng sintomas nito. Malinaw na ang stampede ay bunga nang hindi inaasahang bugso ng dami ng tao at mga pangyayari, na kahit na sino ay walang may kagustuhang maganap ito. Dapat tayong matuto sa naging karanasang ito nang sa ganon ay maiwasan muli ang mga ganitong sitwasyon sa hinaharap. Marami ang sumisisi sa kahirapan bilang dahilan ng trahedya. Sinasabi nila na kung hindi dahl sa kahirapan, hindi dadagsain ng tao ang ULTRA, kung gayo'y hindi magaganap ang trahedya. Hindi tama na isisi sa kahirapan ang naganap na trahedya. Hindi rin makatarungan na sabihing tumungo ang mga kababayan nating mahirap sa ULTR dahil sa wala na silang masulingan para makabangon sa kahirapan. Hindi rin tama na isisi lamang sa Pamahalaan ang kahirapang nararanasan ng ating lipunan. Sa huli, bawat isa sa atin ay may isang antas ng responsibilidad sa naganap ng trahedya: Mula sa mga taong iniasa ang maayos na buhay sa suwerte sa halip na sa matiyagang pagtatrabaho; sa mga pulitiko na sa halip na gumawa ng matitinong programa laban sa kahirapan ay patuloy na sumasakay sa mga isyu para manisi ng kapwa. Sa ganitong sitwasyon, hindi maganda na isipin natin na ang mamamayan nating patuloy na naghihirap ay umaasa nalang sa mga papremyo na makukuha sa iba't-ibang gameshow, sila po ay patuloy na humahanap ng pagkakataon pata makapagsimula ng maayos at makatulong sa lipunan upang ito ay umunlad. Kaya hinihiling namin na sa halip na magsisihan at magturuan ay tulong-tulong tayong maghanap ng solusyon para maibsan ang kahirapan, ito po ay responsibilidad nating lahat. PGMA inspects new housing project for poor families PIA-MegaManilaInfoOffice (jan24)—President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo visited recently Cabuyao, Laguna to inspect the newly-built housing units for poor families displaced from the railway tracks to make way for the SouthRail project Always at the forefront of defending the interest and welfare of the poor, the Chief Executive also supervised the medical and dental mission of her successful “Serbisyo Muna” project where 1,276 indigent families were given Philhealth card. Assisting her in distributing Philhealth cards were Vice-President Noli de Castro, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, Laguna Governor Teresita Lazaro, Rep. Justin Chipeco and Cabuyao Mayor Nila Aguillo During a Pulong Bayan officially opening the visit at the Southville housing project, President Arroyo launched the Botika sa Barangay project aimed at providing half-priced medicines. The Southville Housing project is a 53.337-hectare resettlement site in Barangays Marinig, Niyugan and Banay-banay for families displaced by the PNRNorthrail-Southrail Linkage project from the rail tracks in Cabuyao and Makati City. If fully developed, the housing project is expected to compose 8,003 homelots. In her Cabuyao statement, the President announced the approval of the release of P500 Million to help the indigent families pay their Philhealth premiums. In the same occasion, she approved the release of P1 Billion to finance the on-going relocation of families affected by the railways clearing operations for the rail linkage development project that is expected to ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila. (PIA-MMIO) View From the Palace By Ignacio R. Bunye The meeting Saturday night of the Lakas CMD directorate appeared to have succeeded in ironing out differences among the leaders of the ruling party, particularly former President Fidel V. Ramos, party founder and Chairman Emeritus, and President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, the party’s Chairman. Speaker Joe de Venecia, party President, was beaming as he adjourned shortly before midnight the historic meeting at Malacanan’s Heroes Hall, which was attended by close to 120 top leaders of the party. The party stalwarts approved a “statement of consensus” after free and candid discussion of some of the controversial political issues confronting the party, especially in the matter of pursuing the ongoing campaign to amend the constitution. The party stalwarts also approved a resolution firmly in support of the President of her present constitutional mandate to serve in office until 2010. While acknowledging some political differences among its members, party stalwarts resolved “not to allow current political differences to create any rift nor project any image or impression of disunity among them”. In his opening remarks, FVR reiterated his call for solidarity, unity and teamwork and rallied those who attended with his trademark question: Kaya ba natin ito? To which the party members responded with a resounding: Kayang kaya! Speaker JDV outlined his 7-point proposal for charter change which included: the transformation to a parliamentary form of government; the establishment of a unicameral legislature; providing for a 5-year term of office for all elective officials; a ban on political turncoatism; the creation of autonomous regions towards the establishment of a federal system; and the easing of restrictions on foreign investments in the economy, all of which were endorsed by the party directorate. For her part, President Arroyo asked her party mates to rally behind her in her three-pronged struggle which she described as follows: “First, the economy. Second, Charter Change. And Third, the fight against poverty. The Lakas CMD has always upheld an agenda of unity and democracy, and has resolved issues with collective statesmanship. This has shown once more that it is the Party without par in the political horizon. President Arroyo intends to lead Lakas CMD as a powerhouse in the parliamentary system. Other parties should take the cue and undertake internal reorganization and rearmament for the big change ahead. This administration is determined to push economic growth alongside political renewal as our ticket out of poverty. And Lakas CMD is well-positioned to help President Arroyo in leading the nation to the pinnacle of democracy, the rule of law and equitable development and prosperity. *** We have already laid out the foundations for economic take-off and we are confident that the fruits of our sacrifices would soon be felt by the most impoverished among our people. The President’s socioeconomic agenda is anchored on creating more jobs and livelihood opportunities, shelter for the homeless, better infrastructure and an investor-friendly environment. We are grateful for the mounting cooperation of all well-meaning sectors, quietly performing their own patriotic acts to make things happen for those in need. President Arroyo’s programs are right on track to make the Philippines a part of the first world in 20 years and no amount of poisoned politics will get in the way of success. *** A family friend has offered an interesting theory as to why Filipinos are comparatively laid back and less driven than our counterparts in more economically progressive countries such as Singapore. In the course of helping her children with their school work, this friend was very much alarmed to find out that textbooks contained stories that overly emphasized the role of luck or good fortune in achieving success. She lamented that the stories , rather than highlighting the importance of diligence, perseverance and good old hard work, attributed the protagonist’s success to enkantadas or padrinos of one form or another (human or supernatural). Thus, she theorizes, many kids do not grow up seeing the correlation between hard work and success because they are waiting for luck to land in their laps. It’s a fascinating theory and one which our educators should give some thought to. Note: Past articles may be viewed at http://www.news.ops.gov.ph/palace_bunye.htm Health teams respond to diarrhea outbreak in S. Palawan; 214 cases reported PIA—MMIO (09 jan.)— In response to the reported outbreak of diarrhea in southern Palawan, the Department of Health and the Provincial Health Office dispatched health teams yesterday and early this morning to provide medical assistance to remedy the outbreak of diarrhea. The teams headed by Dr. Peter Curameng of the Dept. of Health and Dr. Antonio Palanca of the Provincial Health Office brought first aid supplies and other medicines like anti-bacterial capsules and suspension, IV fluids and oresol. The Rural Health Units in the affected areas are already in short supply of medicines. As of this morning a total of 214 cases have been reported in the 22 barangays in the three southern towns of Palawan - Bataraza, Española, and Rizal. Bataraza, with 15 barangays affected reported the highest number of patients at 168 as of this morning; 22 cases of death. In Puerto Princesa City, the Ospital ng Palawan, a DOH-run hospital reported 99 cases but only 15 were admitted for hospitalization. In an interview this morning, Dr. Maridith Afuang said that 64 percent of the cases in Bataraza are amoeba-related and 30 percent were caused by bacteria. This is based on the latest result of the laboratory examination conducted. Dr. Afuang also said that the Dept. of Health with the help of the local government units is doing all its best efforts to control the outbreak. A team from the DOH Region IV headed by Dr. Valeriano Lopez is arriving tomorrow to assist in the investigation and to bring in additional supplies and medicines. Dr. Afuang said, “This is a wake-up call to all Sanitation Officers of the LGUs to be diligent and watchful in their areas”. She added that this incidence underscores the vital role of the sanitation officers and health workers, whose activities should be prioritized in the municipal programs. (PIA- PUERTO PRINCESA CITY) DAR to issue notice of coverage to Hacienda Luisita management Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman announced Friday that he will immediately issue a notice of coverage to the family of former President Corazon Cojuangco-Aquino anytime next week or early January next year, sending a strong signal that his office is serious in placing the controversial Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac under lanmd reform. Pangandaman made the announcement at a news conference at his office, during which he instructed Undersecretary for Operations Narciso Nieto to oversee the coverage of the Conjuangco-owned sugarcane plantation. Nieto is expected to transmit the instruction to the provincial agrarian reform office in Tarlac, which in turn, will start the ocular inspection of the entire hacienda. The DAR provincial office will also undertake the proper identification of farm workers who will be awarded with lands. Last Wednesday, the Presidential Agrarian Reform Council (PARC), sitting en banc, upheld DAR’s recommendation to scrap the stock distribution option (SDO) that has been in effect the past 16 years at the 5,000-hectare farm. PARC’s decision stemmed from complaints raised by farm workers against HLI, which included among others, the non-payment of their annual dividends and of their shares in the proceeds of the 500-hectare portion of the farm that was converted into commercial area. Pangandaman said the coverage of Hacienda Luisita under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) would proceed as scheduled even as he expects its management to contest PARC’s decision at the Supreme Court. ”That is its prerogative. But as far as we, in the Department of Agrarian reform (DAR), are concerned, there is no stopping us from proceeding with the coverage of the Hacienda Luisita,” Pangandaman said. HLI has vowed to contest PARC’s authority to decide over the case, saying that only a competent court could do so. DAR sought the scrapping of the SDO after a thorough investigation showed that the economic condition of hacienda workers has worsened since it took effect in 1989 when 94 percent of its employees and workers voted for it. Pangandaman cited the case of a hacienda worker working for a week only to receive a net pay of P10. “You can just imagine how our farmer-beneficiaries tried miserably to keep both ends meet,” he said. Palace believes mutineer escaped with destabilizer’s help Captain Nicanor Faeldon, one of the six core leaders behind the short-lived July 2003 Oakwood mutiny, escaped yesterday from the custody of the Intelligence Service of the AFP to “join the fight for a credible government.”
“We are saddened over how far political exploitation poisoned the mind of this young officer and led him astray,” Presidential Spokesman and Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said in press statement.
Secretary Bunye reiterated that considering the video footage and the letter that surfaced shortly after Faeldon’s escape, his escape appears to have been well-planned and well-coordinated and that he is now being coddled by some shadowy groups and personalities for self-serving destabilization activities.
“We, however, remain optimistic that he would soon realize his mistake and put his idealism and courage in the proper perspective and path, like what his fellow Magdalo leaders have done,” Bunye expressed. The Secretary declared that the government is extending its hand to Faeldon but warned that his exploiters and destabilizers will be dealt with the full force of the law. (PIA-MMIO) Sovereign people final judge of Cha-cha – Bunye Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye made the remark as the Consultative Commission (ConCom) adopted the proposal to impose a moratorium of elections in May 2007 to allow the smooth transition from a republic to a parliamentary-federal form of government. Bunye, who is also the Presidential Spokesman, said the Palace is leaving to Congress to deliberate on ConCom’s recommendations and discern what is best for the country. Amidst this, the Secretary reiterated President Arroyo’s gratitude for the hard work of the 55-commissioners who took the pulse of the Filipino people and craft meaningful recommendations for transformation of the political and economic system. Meanwhile, the Palace maintains its focus on sustaining the task of finding ways to help the people live descent lives and make the best of their potentials to combat poverty in all fronts. (PIA-MMIO) Palace supports protection of local industries from goods of other countries In a press statement, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye expressed protection for the local industries from the impact of the influx of goods from other countries as 11 nations dug in on “flexibilities” for developing economies if industries are opened to more foreign competition. Though the Philippines supports the global market, the Secretary expects its international partners to exercise fair trade and level the playing field with the developing countries so that they may be able to cope with the heavy demands of foreign competition.
>P<“We hope that our economic alliances with other developing countries would strengthen our chances of hastening our economic growth and strength in the global market,” he said. (PIA-MMIO) Welcome to PIA Mega-Manila Website How to Qualify as MMIO Correspondent Login |
|
 |
 |