OWWA-ARMM WELCOMES 31 NEW SCHOLARS

Wednesday 19th of June 2013
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 19 (PIA) -- The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OWWA-ARMM) conducted yesterday, June 18, an orientation for its 31 new scholars under the OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (OFWDSP). For this year, 20 OFW dependents from the Maguindanao and 11 from Lanao Del Sur were added to the list of OWWA scholars. OWWA-ARMM OIC Habib Malik during the orientation said that OWWA shares and support the OFWs’ dream of providing education to the children, emphasizing how a college degree can ensure a better future, without resorting to overseas employment as the onl...
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20,000 pupils in Koronadal City get hygiene kit
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 19 (PIA) -- Over 20,000 school kids here are set to receive packages that contain one-year supply of hygiene and sanitation materials. The local government unit of Koronadal City in partnership with the Department of Education and non-government organization Fit for School Inc., today launched the Essential Health Care Program that covers all public elementary schools in the city’s 27 barangays. The ceremony was held at San Roqu...
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Education sector begins drafting K-12 implementing rules and regulations
PASIG CITY, June 19 -- Agencies handling education services met at the Department of Education (DepEd) today will begin drafting the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Enhanced Basic Education Act signed by the president last May. The program, which adds two more years of senior high school among other enhancements, aims to improve the quality of education to keep up with international standards. “According to the law we have 90 days (from June 8) to finish this,” explains Unde...
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  • School kids get free urinalysis this kidney awareness month

    DAGUPAN CITY, June 19 (PIA) -- Grade school children who have been found vulnerable to kidney diseases will be given free urinalysis as part of the National Kidney Awareness Month this June. The free urinalysis will be administered on Grades 5 and 6 students of the Lingayen I Central School in Lingayen town. The Provincial Health Office also launched various activities to mark the event including a series of fora on kidney protection and disease prevention. Government studies show that schoo...
  • TESDA launches mobile training in Lucena City

    LUCENA CITY, Quezon, June 19 (PIA) -- The provincial office of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) will launch today a mobile training at the city hall annex building, this city. Tesda Sec. Joel Villanueva is expected to lead the launching of the mobile training along with Rep. Irvin Alcala and Lucena City Mayor Roderick Alcala. Engr. Racy Gesmundo of Tesda-Quezon said the mobile training aims to give skills training for the community, especially the Tesda scholar...
  • 300 new employees in Ilocos Sur job fair

    CANDON CITY, June 19 (PIA) -- More than 300 jobseekers were hired on-the-spot during the mega jobs fair here last week. Fresnaida Gundan, chief of the Department of Labor-Ilocos Sur Field Office, said newly-hired employees were given slots in several job fields ranging from construction, office and medical posts. The job fair attracted at least 2,000 applicants who vied for 4,200 overseas and 2,000 local job slots. Gundan said DOLE partnered with the Candon city government, Office of Rep...
  • DOLE to head multi agency information campaign on Kasambahay Law

    CEBU CITY, June 19 (PIA) -- A multi-agency group led by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE7) will launch a campaign to promote the recently approved “Kasambahay Law.” Chona Mantilla, DOLE 7 Regional Director, said in the next few months they will launch an information campaign to reach out to all “kasambahays” or household helpers and employers on the new law, Republic Act 10361. Mantilla, in her opening speech on the first dialogue after the passage of the Kasambahay Law, said ...
  • Nutrition Month to spotlight need to address hunger

    CEBU CITY, June 18 (PIA) -- The National Nutrition Council (NNC) is spotlighting hunger as a critical issue in causing undernutrition and malnutrition during this year’s observation of Nutrition Month in July. NNC-7 Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Dr. Parolita Mission said there continues to be a need to address hunger as part of the Philippines’ commitment to the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, particularly on the goal of eradicating extreme poverty and hunger. “Ri...
  • Japan builds school for remote Maguindanao village

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 18 (PIA) -- Pupils in a secluded village in Kabuntalan town in Maguindanao will soon have classrooms that are more conducive to learning. Kabuntalan Mayor Datu Salaban Diocolano confirmed that the Japanese Government has allotted US$119,975 , approximately P4.8 million, for the construction of a six-classroom building at Gambar Elementary School in Barangay Gambar. A contract has been signed by the local government and Amba...
  • Access to health services a priority with new provincial hospital

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, June 18 (PIA) -- A modern, state-of-the-art health facility is set to open in Barangay Dongon next year. Dr. Joselito Trumata said in an interview at the cable TV Action Center Kapihan sa PIA Wednesday that the new provincial hospital located some five kilometres from the city proper in an interior road will be able to house 450 beds, majority of which are for poor patients, as only 50 beds are for private rooms. The number is a drastic increase compared with th...
  • DepEd region 8 advocates for children’s rights

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) in Eastern Visayas has organized “Pasalugsugan,” an advocacy for children's rights. Dr. Edgar Y. Tenasas, Tacloban City DepEd Division information officer and coordinator of the Adopt-A-School Program, said the program aims to empower children on their rights for them to be able to resist abuses. He said empowering children is categorized into abuses done in school, community and at home. He added that the activit...
  • DA 12 rolls on program for 4Ps beneficiaries

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Agriculture in Soccsksargen Region has joined the convergence of government agencies extending help to the beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) . 4Ps, a flagship program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is a human development program of the national government that invests in the health and education of poor households, particularly of children ...
  • Forum on nutritional guidelines for Filipinos, kicks-off nutrition month celebration

    CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, June 18 (PIA) -- A forum on nutritional guidelines for Filipinos (NGF) was held last June 11 at Hotel Dominique, Tagaytay City as prelude to the nutrition month celebration this coming July. Human resource and administrative officers of RDC member-agencies and the academe attended the forum. Regional nutrition coordinator Carina Santiago said government employees and members of the academe should put into practice the NGF and serve as examples to the community. “The i...
  • POEA XI, SM Davao partners in overseas employment seminar

    DAVAO CITY, June 17 (PIA)-- The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration XI and the Shoe Mart City-Davao will conduct a joint pre-employment seminar and mini-job fair on June 19 aimed at informing job applicants on the employment process to work abroad. Speaking at the Kapehan sa SM City Dabaw, Engr. Nick Santos, assistant marketing manager of the SM City Davao said activity is open to all people from 1:00 to 5:00 pm when all applicants are taught how to apply for overseas employment. H...
  • SSS bares new terms for retirees to qualify for pensions

    MANILA, June 17 (PIA) -- The Social Security System (SSS) announced its new guidelines on contribution payments of voluntary members aged 65 and above who lack the required 120 monthly SSS contributions mandated by law to qualify for retirement pensions. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. made the announcement and called on members who are 65 years old or over prior to April 1, 2013, but have not reached the required member contributions of 120 months to qualify fo...
  • Over 32,000 OFW Flexi-fund members get SSS annual incentive benefits

    QUEZON CITY, June 17 -- More than 32,000 qualified overseas Filipino workers with active accounts at the Social Security System’s (SSS) provident fund for OFW-members earned additional income totaling P12.54 million in the form of annual incentives for 2012. This is triple the amount of guaranteed earnings on their Flexi-fund savings from last year. SSS Senior Vice President and International Operations Division Head Judy Frances See in a statement said nine out of every ten SSS Flexi-fund me...
  • More patients benefit from Reunion Concert for a Cause

    BAGUIO CITY, June 17(PIA) -- The recent Baguio Reunion Concert for a Cause initiated by the Association of Government Information Officers in the Cordillera(ASGIOCO) has helped indigent patients particularly government employees who are in need of financial assistance. During the concert, at least P104, 000 was raised aside from P4,000 and $100 pooled from the audience. The ASGIOCO recently turned over financial assistance of P5,000 to a jail officer who is suffering from a kidney fail...
  • Ifugao PLGU provides assistance for teachers

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, June 17 (PIA)-- Provincial officials here came up with an ordinance establishing a provincial educational assistance program for teachers. This provides that one teacher per barangay shall be hired by the province to teach in public elementary or secondary level especially in remote schools where there are no available teachers. The provincial government believes that this program will reduce the problem on the lack of teachers; extend an alternative solution to some s...
  • Cordilleran officer is TOPS awardee

    BAGUIO CITY, June 17 (PIA)-- Cordillera born Colonel Romeo Brawner Jr. is one of the awardees for this year’s The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS). TOPS is an annual recognition program of the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro, for the members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), that honors and recognizes their dedication, bravery, professionalism and sacrifices in the military service. Brawner, son of the late Justice Romeo Brawner Sr. an...
  • K-12 graduates can be employed easier, says DepEd official

    LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, June 17 (PIA) -- An official of the Department of Education (DepEd) said that students who will graduate under the K-12 program can easily obtain employment or they can put up their own business because they will acquire technical and vocational skills. DepEd Assistant Regional Director Sebastian Tayaban said that with the added two years in the secondary school, students will polish their abilities in arts and technical vocational and entrepreneurship. “The K-12 grad...
  • SLU high retains championship in basketball for a cause

    BAGUIO CITY, June 17 (PIA) -- The Saint Louis University-Laboratory High School (SLU-LHS) won their fourth straight crown in the 16 and Under Division of the 4th Miners Cup. The SLU-LHS Team A successfully defended their championship crown against their fellow Louisians, the SLU-LHS Team B, with a 79-46 in their championship match at the Baguio City National High School Auditorium on June 12. In the 14 and Under Division, University of the Cordilleras High School (UCHS) toppled the SLU-LHS, 82...
  • 11 NegOr towns renew commitment on poverty reduction

    CEBU CITY, June 17 (PIA) -- Eleven towns in Negros Oriental province renewed their commitment for the second cycle of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan - Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS). Kalahi-CIDSS is the country's flagship poverty alleviation project implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The 11 towns that are now conducting municipal orientations are Ayungon, Basay, Bindoy, Dauin, Jimalalud, Mabinay, Manjuyod, Pamp...
  • Antique's poor families get P691 M cash grant

    SAN JOSE, Antique, June 17 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development has released the amount of P691,570,100 million cash grant to poor families in Antique through Pantawid Pamilya since the program started in 2008 until first quarter of 2013. Data obtained from the Pantawid Pamilya Provincial Operations Office here showed that it was in 2012 when the government has released the huge amount of P272,728,900 covering about 26,000 families from the 18 towns in the province. The ...
  • Pangasinan eyes zero maternal death

    SAN CARLOS CITY, June 17 (PIA) -- The Provincial Health Office (PHO) has set its sights on a zero-maternal death by reviewing the province’s records and identifying delivery gaps in its bid to improve maternal health. PHO Chief Dr. Anna Maria Teresa De Guzman said that the provincial government means business in its campaign to hurdle the challenge of achieving a zero-maternal death in the province. She said that, through the review, the province would determine how it can improve its servi...
  • DOLE-Cavite holds training on family welfare program

    TRECE MARTIRES CITY, June 17 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Cavite Provincial Office held a two-day training on Family Planning Welfare Program (FWP) at Optis Philippines, Inc. recently. Sixteen employees coming from the different departments of Optis Philippines, Inc.attended the training that will form the company's family welfare committee (FWC). Companies employing more than 200 workers are urged to implement FWP to promote workers’ qualify of life and improve pro...
  • 13 hired on the spot at Independence Day job fair in Zambales

    SUBIC, Zambales, June 17 (PIA) -- Thirteen applicants were hired on the spot and dozens others qualified for final interview during the 13th Sulong Zambales Job Fair which coincided with the celebration of the 115th Philippine Independence Day. “We wanted that Independence Day will be our way to realize….that through employment we can free ourselves from the woes of impoverishment," according to Ramon Lacbain II, vicegGovernor and provincial public employment service office (PESO) manager. ...
  • Fear of rejection, others cause maternal deaths

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, June 16 (PIA) -- Family support, acceptance, emotional and financial readiness and strong spirituality will surely help in preventing deaths among pregnant mothers, the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) of the Provincial Health Office here said. Mrs. Tessie Dala, Coordinator MCH of the PHO in a forum said that in 2012, there were 14 maternal deaths in the province which could had been prevented, if only certain preparations and actions had been made in place. She s...
  • 19,817 families in Mt. Province enrolled in PhilHealth

    BONTOC, Mountain Province, June 15 (PIA) -- A total of 19,817 indigent families in the province are enrolled for year 2013 in the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) under the Sponsored Program. This program ensures the availability and accessibility of quality medical care services to less-privileged sector of society through the efforts of the local government units, national government and private institutions or individuals who provide the subsidies for the annual premium of thes...
  • 22 students from 4Ps families are SGP-PA grantees

    BONTOC, Mt. Province, June 15 (PIA) -- Students whose families are covered by Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) or the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program of the government are now given the chance to finish college education under the Student Grants-in-Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation (SGP-PA) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The SGP-PA which aims to increase the number of graduates in higher education among poor families, entitles a student grantee ...
  • DepEd stresses promotion of good nutrition in schools

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 15 (PIA) --Schools in Eastern Visayas should implement the promotion of good nutrition by not selling foods that are not ideal for growing children. Department of Education (DepEd) in the region reiterates this, saying that schools should refrain from selling fatty and salty food in its canteens as these food deter students’ growth and mental development. Renelda Salar, DepEd regional supervising nutritionist said the contents of Department Orders issued in 2005 a...
  • Remote village joins ASEAN in observing dengue day

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, June 14 (PIA) -- A remote village in this city will join the observance of the ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) Dengue Day on June 15 through mass cleaning, according to Dr. Bernadette Andaya of the Center for Health Development (CHD). "Barangay Bulo of this city was chosen as a grassroot partner in the observance of the ASEAN dengue awareness campaign because of its active involvement in controlling the spread of the disease,” Andaya said. She said that d...
  • 512 hired in Kalayaan jobs fair in Koronadal City

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 14 (PIA) -- Almost half of those who registered for the Kalayaan jobs fair here Wednesday got hired, an official of the Department of Labor and Employement (DOLE) confirmed. Dominica Millan, head of DOLE- South Cotabato Field Office told Philippine Information Agency 12 that 512 of the 1,265 applicants were hired on the spot (HOTS) during the Kalayaan Jobs Fair at Gaisano Grand Mall as part of the 115th I...
  • NGCP’s 'Balik Eskwela' helps Capiceño pupils

    ROXAS CITY, Capiz, June 14 (PIA) -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) distributed 400 school bags with notebooks and pencils last June 13 at the Antonio Belo Memorial Elementary School (ABMES) in Barangay Timpas in Panit-an town. The NGCP initiative will also be extended to Lacaron and Matagnop Elementary Schools in the municipality of Dao. “Priority of the school supplies are the host communities with NGCP installations because we consider the residents in these area...
  • DOH revives 4 o’clock habit; warns against dengue-related illness

    BAGUIO CITY, June 14 (PIA) - - With the official start of the rainy season and with the observance of Dengue Awareness Month this June, the Department of Health (DOH) is reviving its “Four O’clock Habit” campaign, which calls for a community clean-up drive for possible mosquito breeding sites and a massive awareness campaign on how to combat dengue. The campaign theme "Sugpuin ang Dengue! Mag 4 o’clock Habit: Stop, Look, and Listen, Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue (ABKD) Pagtibayin" cal...
  • REDCOP, PCP strengthen advocacy on kidney disease prevention

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 14 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) through the Renal Disease Control Program (REDCOP) and the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) has strengthened its advocacy on the prevention of kidney diseases in the region in line with the celebration of kidney month this June. Dr. Joyce Matuza-Serna, a nephrologist and president of PCP, said during the Harampang ha PIA program that part of the activities lined up for this month were media forums aimed at increasing ...
  • NNC cautions parents on food intake of their children

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 14 (PIA) -- The National Nutrition Council (NNC) in Eastern Visayas has called on parents and teachers to ensure that the food eaten by their children who are in school are healthy. Segundina Devota Dilao, NNC regional nutrition program coordinator, said parents need to monitor what their children eat in school as eating unhealthy food can lead to dental caries, obesity and nutrient deficiency. She suggests that for lunch, parents prepare easy-to-pack-and-handle dish...
  • 22 youths complete C4TP on culinary in Isabela City

    ISABELA CITY, Basilan, June 14 (PIA) -- The COMTECH Institute in Basilan awarded certificates of training to 22 young beneficiaries of the Cash for Training Program (C4TP), jointly undertaken by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the social welfare department. In a commencement exercise held last June 11 at COMTECH Institute in Isabela City, the graduates have completed their culinary training on bread and pastry production and commercial cooking. Both courses ...
  • Masbate hosts 1st Enhance Training and Advisory Visit in Bicol

    LEGAZPI CITY, June 14 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) provincial field office in Masbate hosted the first ever Enhance Training and Advisory Visit (ETAV) in the entire region last week in Milagros town. DOLE Bicol regional director Nathaniel V. Lacambra has ordered all provincial offices of the agency to focus its information campaign within the month of June on basic labor laws to retail and service establishments, categorized under micro and small enterprises, having t...
  • IP education be based on real beliefs, practices, customs

    TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, June 14 (PIA) -- What is the relevance of indigenous people's "chewing gum" called “mama” to Philippine culture? Apart from its health benefits, does the public know that the mama (betel nut) is food for the spirit? “Rituals are not complete without the 'mama,'” Datu Nestor L. Apas of the Civil Society Network for Education Reforms (E-NET Philippines) said as he raised questions on the adequacy of IP Education being integrated into the Philippine education ...
  • NCIP Quirino grants scholarship to 181 studes from IP communities

    CABARROGUIS, Quirino, June 14 (PIA)--The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) here has granted scholarships under its Educational Assistance Program (EAP) to 181 first year college students from indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples (IPs). “The 181 new EAP grantees are threshed out from 265 fourth-year high school students who took the screening examinations held on March 10, 2013 at Isabela State University, Echague, Isabela,” Katherine Fajardo, NCIP administ...
  • Aquino admin pours P4.5B for public schools

    MANILA, June 13 -- The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released P4.5 billion to the Department of Education (DepEd) for the maintenance of classrooms and the construction of sanitation facilities, in line with the Aquino administration’s commitment to improve the quality of public education nationwide. “This latest release will be used to cover the repair and rehabilitation of our classrooms, including the necessary construction of water sanitation facilities in elementary and sec...
  • DPWH-Bicol completes construction of 73 news school buildings worth P48M

    LEGAZPI CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Bicol region has completed construction of 73 new school buildings worth P48.2 million, in time for the opening of classes this week. In all, 98 new classrooms were built by the agency in the region. DPWH Regional Director Danilo Dequito said that the amount spent for the building construction was sourced from regular school buildings program (RSBP) of the Department of Education (DepEd) for calendar year 2012....
  • Education key to end child labor in NegOr

    DUMAGUETE CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- Education is still the best way to combat child labor. This was emphasized during the celebration of 2013 World Day Against Child Labor, held June 12 at the Robinson’s Dumaguete. Education Specialist Nick Arcilla disclosed that most children don’t go to school because they chose to work to meet their families’ needs. “Our advocacy is to increase the enrollment and lessen the absences and dropping outs of children,” Arcilla said in Filipino. Arcilla...
  • DSWD’s modified conditional cash program to help Sabah displaced persons

    ISABELA CITY, Basilan, June 13 (PIA) -- Qualified displaced persons from Sabah will benefit from the modified Conditional Cash Transfer (MCCT) program from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Narabelle Bue, DSWD-9 regional information officer said the DSWD had developed a program that would help the displaced persons and families from Sabah regain normalcy in their lives and be reintegrated into their communities. The MCCT, which is a basically a prototype of the Panta...
  • Red Cross to celebrate 10th Year of Blood Donations Day

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, June 13 (PIA) -- The Red Cross here will be observing the 10th year anniversary of blood donations day tomorrow at the Borongan city cultural stage. Red Cross Provincial Head Josefa Tentativa said the local Red Cross unit will only collect and store the extracted blood but the processing will be done in the Blood Bank of Ormoc city. She said they don’t have the capacity yet to perform the procedure, adding that the blood bank which was granted to the province i...
  • Kalayaan jobs fair applicants undergo pre-registration and mock interview

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 13 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment – Regional Office 1 (DOLE 1) conducted a learning session and simulated job coaching last June 10 at the People’s Hall, San Fernando City hall. The activity, which was done in partnership with the People Management Association of the Philippines – La Union (PMAP-LU) chapter and the city and provincial Public Employment Service Office, to prepare job applicants for interviews with prospective employers du...
  • Expert says enough water intake can prevent kidney disease

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 13 (PIA) -- Kidney disease should not be taken lightly for it can cause death if not treated at an early stage. Dr. Joyce Matuza-Serna, nephrologist and president of the Philippine College of Physician, said the basic means of preventing kidney disease is by drinking adequate water, depending on the physical activity of a person. She estimated that the needed water requirement of a person is at least 2 liters or 10 glasses of water per day to prevent kidney diseases ...
  • Ifugao LGUs employ 561 SPES beneficiaries

    BANAUE, Ifugao, June 13 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) data revealed that 561 students were employed under the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) implemented here last summer. DOLE Ifugao Field Office data shows that nine municipalities including the provincial government hired the students to work for a certain number of days. Under the SPES, the LGUs provide 60 percent counterpart of the wages of the students while DOLE provides 40 percent. The pro...
  • More Eastern Samar barangays to be energized

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, June 13 (PIA) -- Residents of 113 remote barangays all over the province are expected to be energized anytime this year because of the Rural Electrification Program (REP) of National Electrification Administration (NEA). Nestor B. Promida from the Planning and Design Section of the Eastern Samar Electric Cooperative (ESAMELCO), a local power firm, said they have submitted the list of beneficiaries to NEA for funding. "As of now, the list of beneficiaries was ap...
  • OSYs in rural areas in region 8 to benefit from mobile training program

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 13 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in the region is set to conduct a mobile training program for out-of-school youths (OSYs). TESDA said the training program intends to provide computer hardware service training for OSYs in rural areas of Eastern Visayas. Salvadora Bosillo, head of the TESDA Technical Vocational Educational Training (TVET) programs, said the educational mobile program is implemented by a partner institution ...
  • Pag-IBIG Fund offers bigger savings with Pag-IBIG 2

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, June 13 (PIA) -- The government’s lead agency on forced savings has offered a different kind of saving mechanism for the proverbial rainy day. It's no other than the Home Development Mutual Fund's (Pag-IBIG Fund) Pag-IBIG 2, where a minimum of P500 monthly allocation purely designed for savings can be deducted from one’s regular income for a specified period of five years, only after which it can be fully withdrawn plus the added earnings. Naty Sy, chief of ...
  • Flag raising, school refurbishing, livelihood aid mark Independence Day celebration in Nueva Vizcaya

    STA. FE, Nueva Vizcaya, June 13(PIA) – Display of flags in various sizes, offering of wreath to national heroes park, school preparation and distribution of livelihood funds highlighted the celebration of the country’s independence in the province yesterday. As a prelude activity, the provincial government on June 11 distributed livelihood funds amounting to P10,000 each to 118 tricycle drivers. Other funding assistance were also given to 14 other organizations from the towns of Aritao, B...
  • 2,000 students in Maguindanao receive MagPEACE scholarship

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 13 (PIA) – Over 2,000 poor but deserving students have been granted educational assistance under the Maguindanao Program on Educational Assistance and Community Empowerment (MagPEACE). According to Maguindanao provincial budget officer Lynette Estandarte, coordinator of MagPEACE, an additional 2,061 students have been added in this year’s list of scholars. This brings the total number of MagPEACE scholars to 3,546 which are currently enrolled in various...
  • Cash for training project launched in Lanao del Sur

    MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, June 13 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Tuesday launched the Cash for Training Project (C4TP) in the province. The C4TP aims to assist disadvantaged youth by providing them with skills training and assistance towards gainful employment and entrepreneurial activities, said TESDA Provincial Director Tarhata Mapandi. She said the project will be implemented with two ...
  • Pag-IBIG Lucena to hold registration of 'kasambahay'

    LUCENA CITY, Quezon, June 13 (PIA) -- The Pag-IBIG Lucena City branch will hold a registration of "kasambahay" (domestic helpers) every Saturday starting June 15 to July 27, 2013 at Pag-IBIG Lucena branch, Barangay Ibabang Dupay, Lucena Grand Terminal Building this city. Norma Cayabyab of Pag-IBIG Lucena branch, said the registration of kasambahay is in line with Republic Act 10361 (Batas Kasambahay) which aims to help the kasambahay or domestic helpers to become regular members of the Pag-IB...
  • Monitoring of compliance with labor standards needs holistic approach-DOLE

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- A holistic approach is required in the monitoring of compliance with labor standards particularly on minimum wage implementation. Lawyer Johnson Cañete, regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) emphasized this in a press briefing here on Monday saying that monitoring minimum wage compliance is not only the sole problem of the Department but everybody’s concern. Cañete said local government units (LGUs) for example play vital r...
  • POEA commits full support, assistance to OFWs

    ILOILO CITY, June 13 (PIA6) -- The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is committed to provide its best services to overseas Filipino workers whose invaluable contributions through their remittances help spur the country’s economy. POEA 6 Officer-in-Charge Rhea Glynda Calantas said the commitment was expressed by Administrator Hans Leo Cacdac in his message in line with the celebration of ‘Migrant Workers Day’, June 7. “We recognize that the OFWs have taken the diffic...
  • DOLE to tap barangay officials for Kasambahay Law

    ILOILO CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- Barangay officials will have a vital role in the enforcement of the Kasambahay Law, which took effect on June 4, 2013. This was conveyed by Department of Labor and Employment-6 (DOLE-6) Officer-in-Charge Salome Siaton who said that barangay officials will serve as witnesses between the household employer and the employee in the signing of the written employment contract which shall be executed before the commencement of the service. With the implementation of th...
  • Schoolchildren should eat breakfast - NNC

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 13 (PIA) -- The National Nutrition Council (NNC) in Eastern Visayas has urged parents to make sure that their children, especially those going to school, are eating breakfast. Segundina Devota Dilao, NNC regional coordinator, says eating breakfast enhances a child’s attentiveness in the classroom, lessens behavioral problems and maintains nutritional status. The bad practice of skipping breakfast impacts a learner’s physical and mental well-being which affects a ...
  • BEAM-BRAC Philippines opens 600 additional schools in ARMM for SY 2013-2014

    COTABATO CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- Over 30,000 children are expected to attend formal education with the establishment of 600 learning centers in remote and poor communities in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) for school year 2013-2014. As one of the partners of Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM) program, the Bangladesh Rural Assistance Committee (BRAC) Philippines opens additional 590 learning centers for school year 2013-2014 in addition to the 410 the agency has estab...
  • OWWA enjoins CL OFWs to start their own businesses

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, June 13 (PIA) -- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is encouraging Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who are from Central Luzon to start their own businesses. “Most OFWs don’t venture into a business because they don’t have a mindset to enter such, and we needed to teach them how to,” said OWWA Central Luzon Regional Director Ma. Lourdes Reyes. OWWA and the Department of Labor and Employment – Reintegration Center for OFWs offer a program ...
  • OWWA-10 pays tribute to migrant workers and their families

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 13 (PIA) --- The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Regional Office 10 paid tribute to the heroism of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) during the 18th Migrant Workers Day celebration last June 7. In a simple program held in Grand Caprice Restaurant and Convention Center here, OWWA-10 released financial livelihood assistance under the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) to 60 displaced OFWs coming from Initao, Claveria, Jasaan and the cities of ...
  • Court of inspiration finds new home at Barangay Abella in Naga City

    NAGA CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- GeiserMaclang Marketing Communications Inc. (GMCI) and Alaxan FR corporate officials, village officials and residents and members of the local media have led the groundbreaking rites for the construction of a basketball court dubbed “Court of Inspiration.” Lined up with the government's Public Private Partnership (PPP) thrust, the community project aims to pursue social value of camaraderie, sportsmanship, volunteerism, and discipline while harnessing the power o...
  • DavNor has most national Gawad Saka champs

    DAVAO CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- The Province of Davao del Norte holds the distinction of having the highest number of national Gawad Saka champions in the Davao region. Governor Rodolfo del Rosario bared the province has already produced 10 winners in the national Gawad Saka search for outstanding agricultural achievers since 1998. This feat, according to the governor, has not only brought honor to the province, but has inspired the agri-based local economy to be resilient and ever capable of m...
  • DepEd allots P100 million for Indigenous Peoples education

    PASIG CITY, June 12 -- The Department of Education (DepEd) has allotted P100 million to finance education capacity-building initiatives for Indigenous Peoples (IPS), part of the department’s continuing thrust to make education universal and inclusive of all learners. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro in a statement said the fund allotted by DepEd comes with implementing guidelines on its allocation and utilization for IPs education (IPEd) program. “This is part of our commitment to ach...
  • NFA ready for lean months

    DAVAO CITY, June 11 (PIA) -- The National Food Authority (NFA) assures the public that rice stocks are in place for the lean months this year, beginning June to August, which covers the planting season. In a press statement, NFA Davao provincial manager Engr. Felimon Cangrejo said the agency is “ready to respond to rice-related needs during unprecedented events such as man-made or natural calamities all-day, every day.” NFA has been well-equipped in terms of stock position, its accessibili...
  • BIR reminds candidates to submit their statement of expenditures

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, June 11 (PIA) -- The provincial office of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) here reminded the candidates of the recently held mid-term elections to submit their Statement of Election Contributions and Expenditures (SECE). The deadline for submission of the SECE is tomorrow, June 12. BIR through Joy Catamco said candidates, whether they won or not, may be penalized for the delay or failure to submit the BIR requirement. Catamco said for every P100 worth of expe...
  • DOLE 12 to gather stakeholders to address job mismatch

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 11 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Soccsksargen Region will gather stakeholders here Wednesday, June 12, for a forum intended to address the perennial labor problem of mismatch between available jobs and skills of job seekers. DOLE 12 Regional Director Ofelia Domingo said, the event – the 1st Regional Career Advocacy Congress -- would involve guidance counselors, students and industry players ...
  • Pangasinan grants scholarship to 100 youths

    LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, June 11 (PIA) -- At least 100 incoming college freshmen received their scholarship assistance worth P8,000 from the provincial government on Friday at the Sison Auditorium in this town. Of the 100 scholars, 50 were automatic qualifiers for the province’s scholarship program having graduated as high school valedictorians and salutatorians for school year 2012-2013 while the rest made it in the top 50 during the qualifying examination administered by the province last mo...
  • 2013 Kalayaan Job Fair offers over 60,000 vacancies to MM jobseekers

    QUEZON CITY, June 11 (PIA)--Over 60,000 job vacancies await jobseekers in Metro Manila in the 2013 Kalayaan Job Fair on June 12. The job fair is part of the 115th Independence Day Celebration. This year's theme is Kalayaan: Ambagan Tungo sa Malawakang Kaunlaran. The event will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday at the South drive of the Rizal Park in Manila. There are 57 local direct employers offering 4,536 job vacancies and 30 employment agencies with 4,263 job opportunities, according t...
  • 27,881 jobs up for grabs in 2013 Kalayaan Fair

    ILOILO CITY, June 11 (PIA) -- Around 27,881 job vacancies will be open to applicants in this year’s Kalayaan Job Fair organized by the Department of Labor and Employment-6 (DOLE-6), in partnership with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Iloilo on June 12. DOLE-6 Officer-In-Charge Salome O. Siaton said the job fair is their contribution to the country’s celebration of its 115th Independence Day. Siaton said that 110 local companies and overseas recruitment agencies are tak...
  • Kasambahay law provides compulsory Philhealth coverage

    VIGAN CITY, June 11 (PIA) -- The new Kasambahay law, which took effect earlier this month, makes it mandatory for the employer to provide Philhealth benefit to the household worker. Francis Canosa, officer-in-charge of Philhealth, said once employed, a househelp should be covered by Philhealth. Under the law, employers should inform the Philhealth office the name of newly hired household service worker (HSW) 30 days from employment. Canosa said RA 7875 otherwise known as the Philippine Heal...
  • DavNor elderly get updates on rights, privileges

    TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, June 11 (PIA) -- Elderly people still have a pivotal role to play in the progress of our country and they do not surrender their rights and privileges when they reached retirement age. Such is the theme of the forum on Senior Citizen’s Rights and Concerns being held as integral part of the Friday outreach missions of the Convergence for Peace and Development program in the far-flung and depressed areas of the province. Former DOE Asec. Leonilo Lariosa, consulta...
  • DOH XI re-launches 4 o'clock habit against dengue fever

    DAVAO CITY, June 11 (PIA) -- The Department of Health in Davao Region has renewed the prevention awareness campaign of the dengue fever through the four o’clock habit. Engineer Antonietta Ebol, program manager of the Dengue Program of the DOH XI said the current program calls on all residents to stop, look and listen to prevent being afflicted with the dengue illness. She said people must be wary that at 4:00 pm whether in the office or at home they stop, look and destroy the breeding ground...
  • Culinary school opens branch in Subic

    SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, June 11 (PIA) -- Culinary enthusiasts and restaurateurs in Central Luzon now have a chance to hone their kitchen skills without having to go to Manila, as one of the country’s premier culinary schools opened its doors in Subic Freeport. The Center for Asian Culinary Studies (CACS) recently opened a branch here — its fifth thus far — to address the rising demand for quality culinary education in Region 3. CACS offers one-year professional diploma courses for Commercial...
  • News Feature: Don’t disregard dengue, 688 down with disease

    TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, June 11 (PIA) -- Do not wait for the fever to go beyond a day. This sums up the advice from medical practitioners during the recent Kapihan sa PIA. Assistant Provincial Health Officer Dr. Greg Sodusta urged relatives of people with high and persistent fever to immediately seek proper medical treatment and not wait for hemorrhaging to set in. Almost always, hemorrhaging in dengue becomes fatal, according to medical experts. Bohol dengue coordinator Teresita Sarigumb...
  • DavNor builds more classrooms

    DAVAO DEL NORTE, June 11 (PIA) -- True to its commitment to the education sector, the provincial government has carried out some P27-million worth of classrooms and various school facilities as of May this year. The amount was alloted for the construction and repair of eight schoolbuildings, including other structures such as computer rooms, H.E. buildings, school stages and fences. The allocation for school facilities made up 11.74 percent of the total fund alloted for all the completed ...
  • Laoag holds summer recital for 2,000 children

    LAOAG CITY, Jun 11 (PIA) -- Schoolchildren showcased their talents in a recital on May 31, culminating their more than a month-long summer arts classes at the Laoag City Hall. At least 2,000 children participated in the city government’s Sama-Summer Together recital at the city basketball arena performing skillful dances, singing and musical arts. Jannah Baitan, a 5-year old girl and one of the youngest in the dance group, cheerfully swayed as her parents watched her during the night of pe...
  • 2 Bicolanos qualify for 2013 Dangal ng Bayan semi-finals

    LEGAZPI CITY, June 11 (PIA) -- Two Bicolanos are among the 20 national semi-finalists selected by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in its 2013 Search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees. “Simeon Ballon and Arnulfo Balane of the Bicol region are among the 20 semi-finalists for this year’s Dangal ng Bayan award chosen from 47 qualified nominees all over the country,” said CSC V information officer Yoyie Jalmanzar in the Ugnayan sa Bicol program of this agency. Ballon is the se...
  • Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries score 85% school attendance - Soliman

    QUEZON CITY, June 11 (PIA) -- Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon “Dinky “ Soliman reported that for the school year 2012-2013, some 98% of Pantawid Pamilya children beneficiaries nationwide had an 85% school attendance. Soliman said the children may now have a better opporunity in life than their parents. “It is important that the household-beneficiaries stay in the program by continuing to comply with its conditions," Soliman said. "Otherwise, they wi...
  • NGCP provides school supplies to pupils of a public school in Kalinga

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, June 11 (PIA) - - The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) distributed school supplies on June 7 to 538 pupils of the Nambaran Elementary School this city in support to the “Balik Eskwela” program of the Department of Education. Melma Batario, principal specialist, corporate affairs department of NGCP said the outreach program is part of their corporate social responsibility of sharing the corporation’s gains to the less fortunate particularly on the ...
  • DepEd turns-over two-classroom school building to Bayog town

    BAYOG, Zamboanga del Sur, June 11 (PIA) -- The Department of Education Regional Office IX (DepED-9) through the Physical Facility Division Supervisor Dr. Duton Casla turned-over early this month a two-classroom school building to this municipality. The P1.04-million school building was constructed at Pulangbato Elementary School. Mayor Leonardo L. Babasa, Jr. thanked DepEd for the said school building, saying it would really be a great help to accommodate the increasing number of enrolees in ...
  • DSWD inks new programs, projects for Bicol

    LEGAZPI CITY, June 11 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-V signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with various agencies on new programs and projects for the Bicol region during the agency's executive committee (Execom) meeting held recently in this city. The agency signed the MOA on the “Trabahong Turismo” program to be implemented in partnership with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Tourism (DOT). The program aims ...
  • 512 benefit from Kalahi-CIDSS projects in Kalinga town

    PASIL, Kalinga, June 11 (PIA) -- A total of 512 community people benefited from temporary jobs generated from the implementation last year of Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan - Comprehensive Integrated Development of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) in this municipality. Joel Cubit, area project coordinator, said beneficiaries composed of 426 males and 86 females were involved in the construction of 10 sub-projects through paid labor and other services. He said the beneficiaries from the 14 bara...
  • DAR-NegOr turns over CPWASH to RAMPUCO

    NEGROS ORIENTAL, June 11 (PIA)--The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) with the local government of Canlaon City turned over a community-managed potable water supply, sanitation and hygiene (CPWash) project worth P300,000 to the Ramrod Agricultural Multi Purpose Cooperative (Rampuco) . The project consist of rain water collector which accumulates and stores rainwater for reuse before it reaches the aquifer, DAR information officer Gherelene Rafols said. CPWash also includes bio-sand filters...
  • Japanese initiative reading center, opens in Cabuyao City

    CABUYAO CITY, Laguna, June 10 (PIA) -- A reading center reminiscent of a Japanese day care center named The Limcaoco Reading Center, also known as Mottainai Reading Center was opened recently at the Cabuyao Central Elementary School, this city. The reading center is an initiative of Officebusters Japan, a non-profit organization that provides office/school supplies and fixtures with the aim of encouraging the habit of reading among children at an early age. It is located in a 30 sq. m building...
  • Jobs fair in 3 Ilocos cities to mark Freedom Day

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, June 10 (PIA) – At least 53 local employers and 40 licensed recruitment agencies will participate in the Independece Day jobs fair to be held simultaneously in the cities of San Fernando, Candon and Laoag City. Arly S. Valdez, information officer of the Department of Labor and Employment-Regional Office in the region, said local and overseas posts await jobseekers which will be held at the CSI the City Mall in San Fernando, Candon Civic Center in Candon and at the La Tabaca...
  • 84 more families in Polomolok receive land titles

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 10 (PIA) -- Eighty-four families more have been granted proof of ownership of their residential lots in Barangay Cannery in nearby Polomolok town. A report from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 12 indicated that heads of these families received the titles of their home lots in a ceremony on May 29, the second such activity in barely two months in the village’s Purok Sta. Cruz. The first bat...
  • Eastern Viasayas POEA warn workers vs illegal recruiters

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 10 (PIA) -- The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) in Eastern Visayas warns Filipinos who are planning to go abroad to beware of illegal recruiters. POEA Regional Coordinator Rose Jervoso cautioned workers not to fall prey to illegal recruiters during the Migrant Workers Day celebration held Friday at the Leyte Provincial Capitol Gym in Tacloban city. In her speech, Jervoso described some of the modus operandi of illegal recruiters. She said an ille...
  • Poor senior citizens in Region 12 to receive flu, pneumonia vaccines

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, June 10 (PIA) -- Indigent senior citizens across Soccsksargen Region are set to receive influenza and pneumococcal vaccination, an official of the Department of Social Welfare and Development confirmed. Ryan Ibones, regional information technology officer of the National Household Targeting Unit (NHTU) said at least 53,220 senior citizens have been identified for the immunization program, which will be implemented through the Dep...
  • NGCP donates computers to hearing-impaired class in Pampanga

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, June 10 (PIA) --The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has donated 10 computer units to a special education class of Guagua Elementary School in Pampanga. “The donation will enable 17 hearing-impaired students to become knowledgeable in information technology which is a tool useful to them not only in school but also in their daily lives,” said NGCP Northern Luzon Corporate Communications Officer Lilibeth Gaydowen. For her part, Guagua Eleme...
  • DepEd-ARMM partners with MSU on K to 12 implementation

    MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, June 7 (PIA) -- The Department of Education in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DepED-ARMM) has partnered with the Mindanao State University (MSU) System in conducting a five-day training on K to 12 implementation Dr. Mariam LM. Diron, MSU Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, said the training aims to prepare high school teachers under the MSU system for the implementation of the K to 12 program. She said around 600 high schools teachers under th...
  • Instructional material in Waray dialect published

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 9 (PIA) -- An instructional material in Waray can now be used by teachers in teaching kindergarten and grade school-level pupils. Voltaire Oyzon, John Mark Fuller and Dr. Evelyn Cruzada, three instructors of two public universities in Eastern Visayas, came up with a Waray-English dictionary entitled: “An Syahan nga Usa Ka Yukot hin mga Pulong nga Agsob Gamiton ha Winaray.” Department Order No. 74 s. 2009 of the Department of Education (DepEd) mandates the Mother ...
  • NGCP awards school supplies, gives safety tips in Northern Luzon

    STA. TERESITA, Cagayan, June 8 (PIA)– The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) in partnership with the Cagayan Electric Cooperative 2 (CAGELCO) has turned over school supplies and conducted information dissemination on safety tips to avoid accident and power interruption in 35 areas in Northern Luzon. This is one of the corporate social responsibilities of the agency to help those communities in need, according to Lilibeth Gaydowen, NGCP Information Officer for Northern Luzon, ...
  • Health authorities in Samar raise concern over parasitic disease

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, June 8 (PIA) -- Health authorities in Samar province have raised concerns over schistosomiasis, a disease usually caused by parasitic worms. Dr. Dulce Cernal, provincial health officer, said schistosomiasis remains a public health concern and continues to afflict Samarnons aged five to 65. The doctor reported this during a workshop on schistosomiasis held in Samar’s capital city last June 5. Schistosomiasis is acquired when people come in contact with fresh water ...
  • 54,662 OL traps to be given to public schools in Eastern Visayas

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 8 (PIA) -- Three national government agencies in Eastern Visayas have collaborated to lessen the incidences of dengue cases in schools in the region. The regional offices of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Education (DepEd) are working together to reduce dengue incidence through the distribution of Ovicidal Larvicidal (OL) traps in all classrooms in the region. A report from DOH showed that from Januar...
  • Erratum on the MultiDrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) story

    We wish to correct an error in our story entitled "MultiDrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB), a growing public health concern - DOH," posted May 21, 2013 on the PIA website (http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2611369114367). In the article, the Tropical Disease Foundation (TDF) was erroneously identified as principal recipient of the Programmatic Management of Drug-resistant TB (PMDT) program supported by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM). The principa...
  • TESDA renews partnership with Coca-Cola to empower Women Entrepreneurs

    QUEZON CITY, June 7 (PIA) – The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has renewed its partnership with the Coca-Cola Company to help address challenges women entrepreneurs commonly face in the country. The partnership, through TESDA's Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs and Coca-Cola's 5 by 20 Women's Economic Empowerment, aims to provide women entrepreneurs access to skills training and technical and financial support. TESDA and Coca-Cola have ...
  • Feature: Tarlaqueña thanks PNoy for new job

    President Benigno Aquino III’s randomly handpicked job seeker during his walk-through at the recently concluded Pre-Labor Day Mega Job Fair at Camp Servillano Aquino in Tarlac City has been hired at one of the leading retailing supermarket giants in the country. BS Information Technology graduate Tiffany Gail Paguio was one of the 3,475 job seekers who patiently went through the process of the job fair to look for a career that suited her. Paguio, in a letter sent to the President through t...
  • U.S. Gov’t supports K-12 training for teachers in Cebu

    CEBU CITY, June 7 (PIA) -- As the Department of Education (DepEd) girds up for the second phase implementation of K to 12 program, the United States government showed its support by holding a trainer’s training in Cebu City. US Embassy Manila’s Agency for International Development (USAID) conducted recently a one-day facilitation training and preparation workshop for 20 DepEd chief trainers here. The trainers are responsible for training 600 master trainers in Filipino and English. The...
  • SSS launches grassroots program in IGaCoS

    ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL, June 7 (PIA) -- The Social Security System (SSS) President and CEO Emilio De Quiros, Jr. led the launching of the AlkanSSSya Program for San Remegio Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SARBEMCO) and San Remegio Fisherfolks Cooperative (SARFISCO) at Barangay San Remegio, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal on Wednesday, May 29. “Misyon namin sa SSS ang palaganapin ang pagcover at pagbigay ng pagkakataon sa lah at ng mamamayang m...
  • Education begins at 50

    NEGROS OCC., June 8 (PIA6) -- At 50 years-old, he stands out among his classmates consisting of 30 Alternative Leaning System students who are mostly teenagers. The community does not only know him to be the eldest in the class. They also know him as Antonio Salazar Sr., their barangay chief of more than 10 years in Brgy. Bago, municipality of Don Salvador Benedicto. He rose above ridicules and went through a 10-month ALS schooling program. After that, he took the Accreditation and Equivalen...
  • DPWH Southern Leyte classroom constructions underway

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, June 7 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Southern Leyte Engineering District is building 18 classrooms in eight public schools in the Southern Leyte Schools Division. District Engineer Carlos Veloso said during a press briefing held at the DPWH Southern Leyte Conference Hall yesterday that five of the 18 classrooms have been completed in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd). He said the overall classrooms construction ac...
  • DSWD to complete 215 community projects in Bicol

    LEGAZPI CITY, June 7 (PIA) -- Some 2,051 communities in the Bicol region will benefit from the 215 poverty reduction projects to be completed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here. These projects are under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), a multi-funded project of the DSWD. Kalahi-CIDSS aims to address the needs of communities from the poorest areas in the region. It is a community-driven deve...
  • Over 100 incoming indigent college freshmen in CL to benefit from CHED scholarships

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga, June 7 (PIA) -- Over a hundred incoming indigent college freshmen in Central Luzon are bound to benefit from the various scholarships administered by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) under its Student Financial Assistance Program (STUPAFS). “Most of them are recipients of the full merit and half merit scholarship. Under this system, freshmen obtaining an average of 90 and up in the last three grading periods of their fourth year high school are entitled ...
  • DepEd East Samar launches K to 12 model high schools

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, June 6 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd), Eastern Samar Division has identified schools in the province that will pilot-test certain courses in its launch yesterday of the K to 12 High School Modeling. DepEd officials, teachers and education stakeholders attended the launch held at the Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School Gym. The identified schools to pilot-test courses are the following: Dolores National High School-Electronics and Compute...
  • SSS collections in Visayas-Mindanao hit P4.76B in 1Q

    BUTUAN CITY, JUNE 6 (PIA) -- The Social Security System (SSS) collected a total of P4.76 billion in contributions from members in Visayas and Mindanao from January to March 2013, up by nine percent from its P4.35-billion collection during the same period in 2012. This was disclosed by SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. during a "Kapihan sa SSS" with members of the local press. De Quiros said collections in the Northern Mindanao region also grew by five percent for a...
  • DepEd Eastern Visayas enforces 'no collection policy' in public schools

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 6 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) is strictly implementing its “no collection policy” in the region. Regional Memorandum 131 signed May 16 by DepEd Regional Director Luisa Bautista-Yu states that no fees will be collected for the entire year from students in kindergarten up to Grade 4. The memorandum also clarifies that students from Grade 5 up to the 4th year level will be spared from the collection of school fees from June to July 2013 but schools...
  • NGCP to distribute school supplies to Ifugao pupils

    LAMUT, Ifugao, June 6 (PIA) -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), in coordination with the Ifugao Electric Cooperative (IFELCO) and the Department of Education here, will distribute school supplies to about 200 pupils of the Sanafe Elementary School in this town on June 24. Lilibeth Gaydowen of the NGCP said that this is one of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) which aims to help communities hosting their transmission lines and facilities. “We want...
  • DepEd region 8 welcomes over 1M public school students

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 6 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) in Eastern Visayas said over one million students trooped back to the region’s public schools on June 3. Rebecca Ragrag, DepEd assistant regional director, said the department has always been prepared for the school opening starting with addressing the glitches encountered. The six-day Brigada Eskwela did a lot in cleaning up the school premises and classrooms a week before the opening of classes, Ragrag said. She a...
  • OWWA conducts learning assistance activities for families of OFWs

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 6 (PIA) -- The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in the Ilocos region had an annual Learning Support Activity (LSA) program with learning assistance activities for families of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The program is designed to assist their college scholars maintain their scholarships, have an opportunity for personal development, and further develop or inspire them to start planning for a bright future and realize one’s obligation in becomin...
  • RDRRMC prepares for 1st nationwide simultaneous earthquake drill

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 6 (PIA) -- The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) reminds all local DRRMCs of the conduct of the 1st National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill on Critical Infrastructure for 2013 in San Roque Dam and barangays San Vicente, San Manuel and Pangsinan on June 10. This is after the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reminded all RDRRMCs to call on their local DRRMCs in the conduct of earthquake drills for critical in...
  • DPWH Tacloban builds additional school buildings

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 6 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Tacloban City Engineering Office is constructing additional school buildings at the Leyte National High School (LNHS) and at the San Jose Elementary School. It is also conducting repair and rehabilitation at the Leyte Normal University under the supervision of engineer Margarito E. Fabillo Jr. The on-going construction at the LNHS is expected to be completed by June 23. The 126-square-meter structure was ...
  • New provincial hospital to be finished by 2014

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, June 6 (PIA) -- The new Southern Leyte Provincial Hospital worth P260 million is targeted to be completed by 2014, Project Engineer Pastor Maitem Jr. said during an ocular visit conducted by the local media yesterday. Located at a 3-hectare lot in Barangay Dongon, this city, the on-going construction of the provincial hospital is now on its 3rd Phase, with an allocated P110-million budget. Phase 1 costs P100 million while Phase 2 costs P50 million, totaling to P26...
  • Smooth opening of classes observed in Biliran

    NAVAL, Biliran, June 6 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) said the opening of classes last June 3 in all public elementary and high schools in the Division of Biliran went smoothly. In an interview, Dr. Pedro Escobarte Jr., schools division superintendent, said no major problems were encountered by schools in the Division of Biliran relative to the opening of classes. Escobarte said he sent out school personnel in the division office to monitor all schools in the nine districts of Bi...
  • Baguio high school opens doors to 9,000 studes, expects more to enrol

    BAGUIO CITY, June 6 (PIA) -- Baguio City National High School (BCNHS), the largest school in the Cordillera, has opened its doors to at least 9,000 students this week with more expected to enrol until next week. Baguio City National High School Principal Elma Donaal welcomed the thousands of students on Monday during the nationwide opening of classes for the public schools. Donaal said that their main campus at the Governor Pack Road has already accommodated more than 6,000 students while...
  • NSCB reports consistent decline of poor families in Bicol

    LEGAZPI CITY, June 6 (PIA) -- The number of extremely poor families in the Bicol region consistently declined in the past six years according to the latest poverty estimates released by the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) here. “Food poor or extremely poor families consistently dropped from 16.5 percent in 1st semester of 2009 to 14.1 percent in 1st semester 2012," according to the NSCB report. "Similarly, food poor population posted consistent declines from the first semester...
  • No one should be left behind in development – Soliman

    QUEZON CITY, June 6 (PIA) – Uplifting the poor was the challenged faced by the participants in the recently concluded Conference on the Philippine Social Protection Agenda conducted by the Department of Social Work and Development (DSWD). DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman in her speech admitted, “our greatest challenge is to move poor families to self-sufficiency level by 2016.” “To achieve this, we must ensure that social protection programs should reach the intended beneficiar...
  • Pangasinan reduces poverty incidence

    PANGASINAN, June 6 (PIA) -- Poverty incidence rate in Pangasinan dropped by 9.5 percentage points this year to 17 percent in 2012 from 26.5 percent in 2006, based on based on the Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES) conducted by the National Statistics Office (NSO) in July last year. Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Benita Pizarro said that in 2006, Pangasinan was the poorer province in Region 1 with poverty rate even higher than the national figure. “Though we now...
  • DOST conducts training on herbal oil extraction

    SIQUIJOR, June 5 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Siquijor conducted a training on herbal oil extraction and massage oil formulation on June 3, 2013 at San Antonio, Siquijor. Participants are the Siquijor Womens Association for a Better Environment (SWABE), a women’s association engaged in the production of herbal tea. DOST Provincial Director, Engr. Mario E. de la Peña, in an interview, said the move is a way of empowering women in the community by providing liveli...
  • Central Visayas schools ready for K to 12

    CEBU CITY, June 5 (PIA)--Schools in the entire Central Visayas are now ready for the full swing implementation of K to 12 program. Dr. Luz Jandayan, Department of Education 7 Curriculum and Learning Management Division Chief, recently said that all the schools under the 19 school divisions in Central Visayas are ready for the K to 12 flagship strategy. Jandayan was among the guests of the recent Mindshare session conducted by Cebu Coalition for Better Education (CBE) at the Cebu Normal Univers...
  • DepEd reports orderly opening of classes in Cordillera

    BAGUIO CITY, June 5 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) reported a smooth and orderly opening of classes June 3 in all public elementary and high schools in the Cordillera. DepEd Cordillera Assistant Regional Director Sebastian Tayaban said in a kapihan media forum at the PIA Cordillera Regional Office that classes opened smoothly in the region. Tayaban said that with the enrolment still on-going, they expect to have the same number of public school enrolees of 315,000 last year, if n...
  • DOLE affirms commitment to K to12

    QUEZON CITY, June 5 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) affirms its commitment to the successful implementation of the K-12 program which is now institutionalized after President Benigno S. Aquino III signed Republic Act 10533 into law on 15 May 2013. Labor & Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, in a statement said, DOLE will work with the Department of Education (DepEd) in accordance to the provisions of the landmark law. "The K to12 law, as a flagship education program o...
  • Mountain Province health workers to visit Southern Leyte’s birthing centers

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, June 5 (PIA) -- Health workers from the Municipality of Paracelis in Mountain Province will conduct an inception visit to Southern Leyte on June 3-5. Dr. Noel Lumen, provincial health officer I and head of the Technical Department of the Salvacion Oppus Yṅiguez Memorial Provincial Hospital (SOYMPH) said the team wanted to observe the Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEMONC) and the conduct of Maternal Death Reviews (MDR) for its successful implementatio...
  • DTI-Davao strengthens Knowledge Management program

    DAVAO CITY, June 5 – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Davao Region has implemented initiatives that will further strengthen its Knowledge Management (KM) program. Cognizant of the vital role of KM for the organization’s growth especially in terms of quality management, DTI-Davao Regional Director Marizon S. Loreto said that by making this particular initiative a regular program of DTI-Davao, the agency will further improve its service to its clients. “As an ISO-certified o...
  • DepEd personnel gets Philhealth’s primary care benefit package

    BAGUIO CITY, June 5 (PIA) -- Employees of the Department of Education (DepEd) will now be covered by the expanded Primary Care Benefit 1 (PCB1) package of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). Noland Sabling of the PhilHealth Cordillera said during the 2nd Quarter Meeting of the Regional Coalition for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (RCPCNC) that the expansion program is in support to the government’s health agenda Kalusugan Pangkalahatan (universa...
  • 139 youths graduate from Cash for Training

    MISAMIS ORIENTAL, June 5 (PIA) -- One hundred thirty nine youths from the towns of Tagoloan, Villanueva, Jasaan, Claveria, Balingasag, and Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental have graduated from the Cash for Training, a joint program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. Training courses completed by the students included shielded metal arc welding, electrical installation and maintenance and computer hardware servicing. The Cash...
  • Nutrition evaluation team in Ifugao for Crown award

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, June 5 (PIA) -- The National Nutrition Evaluation Team (NNET) has started evaluating the province's performance in nutrition programs this week as the province vies for its second Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition (Crown) Maintenance Award this year. Ifugao bagged the Crown award in 2010 in the Cordillera Administrative Region for its nutrition action plan to curb malnutrition for three consecutive years. Provincial Nutrition Action Officer Dr. Mary Joseph...
  • DepEd-CAR seeks exemption from fair education act

    BAGUIO CITY, June 5 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) has passed a resolution requesting for the exemption of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) from the application of Republic Act No. 7880 or the "Fair and Equitable Access to Education Act." DepEd-CAR Assistant Regional Director Sebastian Tayaban said during the recent 2nd Quarter Meeting of the Regional Social Development Committee (RSDC) that the law provides for the fair and equitable allocation of the DepEd budget for ...
  • BFAR conducts training on fish cage construction, tilapia culture for retiring soldiers

    FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija, June 5 (PIA) -- Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) recently conducted a five-day training on fish cage construction and tilapia culture operation to 30 retiring enlisted personnel of 7th Infantry Division (7ID). Wilfredo Cruz of BFAR lectured on the benefits of fishery, basic fisheries, proper fish handling and medical treatment. Actual fishnet weaving and floating bamboo fish cage making were made by the participants as practical exercises at Pahinga...
  • DSWD database reveals poor households in Mimaropa

    QUEZON CITY, June 4 (PIA) -- The National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTSPR) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office IV- MiMaRoPa has identified 242,633 poor households in the region. Out of the 513,759 total number of households assessed, 47.1 percent or 1,364,844 individuals are considered poor. NHTSPR is an information management system that identifies ‘who and where the poor are’ nationwide. This is conducted thru household assessment us...
  • DOLE XI to hold Kalayaan day jobs fair

    DAVAO CITY June 4 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment Region XI will be holding its 2013 Kalayaan Jobs Fair this June 12 coinciding with the 115th anniversary of the Philippine Independence. DOLE-XI Regional Director Atty. Joffrey Suyao said that the jobs fair will be simultaneously held in two big malls in Davao City (NCCC Mall and Ayala's Abreeza Mall). He said as of May 31 there are 35 local employers and agencies and 23 overseas employers/agencies participating in the event. A...
  • TESDA offers scholarship in Romblon

    ODIONGAN, Romblon, June 4 (PIA) -- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) offers scholarship to all high school graduates who wish to pursue post graduate education in technical vocational program in Romblon. The Tesda scholarships offered under the Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) are massage therapy, computer hardware servicing, front office services, food and beverage services that will be catered by Erhard Systems Technological Institute (ESTI) in...
  • DOH-Baguio observes Safe Motherhood Week

    BAGUIO CITY, June 4 (PIA) -- The Safe Motherhood Week is among the health event that the Department of Health (DOH) observes every month of May, an occasion to remind couples, especially mothers, that every pregnancy is a risk pregnancy. Nurse Zenaida Patal-e of the DOH Center for Health and Development-Cordillera said in a kapihan media forum on May 29 that maternal death or cases of mothers dying while giving birth remains high in Cordillera despite government efforts to advocate for health f...
  • DepEd officials say classes in Kalinga opened smoothly

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, June 4 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) officials here reported that the start of classes on June 3 in Kalinga went on smoothly. Schools Division Superintendent Carolyn Verano said that classes started right without the usual cleaning of classrooms and grounds, and repair of damaged school facilities since the surroundings were already cleaned and everything was fixed during the week-long “Brigada Eskwela.” “The successful conduct of the Brigada Eskwela s...
  • Kalinga offers SPED classes

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, June 4 (PIA) –- The Kalinga Schools Division offers the Special Education (SPED) Program for school year 2013-2014 in the districts of Balbalan, Pinukpuk and Tabuk City. Schools Division Superintendent Carolyne Verano said Kalinga Division earned its accreditation from the Department of Education (DepEd) as SPED center in 2012. SPED is a special elementary curriculum given to “self-contained” children or children with special gifts and skills, who need extra-clos...
  • DOLE, other govt agencies to establish protection program for informal sector workers

    QUEZON CITY, June 3 (PIA)--The Department of Labor and Employment is converging with other government agencies in pushing for the establishment of a Social Protection Floor (SPF) which will provide minimum protection for informal sector workers. Labor & Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz in a statement said the DOLE is looking at the under-employed, self-employed, and unpaid family workers who are a big part of the informal sector and who constitute workers in vulnerable employment. Baldoz ...
  • DSWD lowers age requirement for social pension program

    ZAMBOANGA CITY, June 3 (PIA) – Senior citizens ages 77 years old and above are now qualified as beneficiaries of the social pension program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD). The program aims to help indigent senior citizens with basic needs like food and medication, Ms. Evelyn Lingatong, DSWD-9 coordinator for social pension, said. “We actually adjusted the age requirement from 80 years old to 77 years old. Now, why 77 when senior citizenship starts at 60? It...
  • DPWH Samar to build 121 new classrooms for 2013

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, June 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will build 121 new classrooms this year worth P216.243 million. DPWH District Engineer Johnny Acosta in his visit Friday to the Philippine Information Agency-Samar said two of these classrooms will be ready by June 3. “I assure the people about this because I personally visit the sites where these classrooms are,” he added. Acosta said of the entire project, 25 of these are one-classroom buildings...
  • Regional winners for 2013 Gawad Saka Search get recognition from DA

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Eastern Visayas has paid tribute to a number of achievers in the agriculture and fishery sector in the region. Eight outstanding farmers and three fishery councils/organizations were awarded as 2013 Regional Gawad Saka Awardees for Eastern Visayas during the Regional Awarding Rites held Wednesday at the multi-purpose hall of the DA regional office at the Farmers’ and Fisherfolks’ Month Celebration. DA Regional Exec...
  • ALS in Ilocos Sur-43 percent pass test for elementary level, 42 percent for secondary level

    VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur, June 3 (PIA) -- At least 42. 86 percent of examinees for the Accreditation and Equivalency Test from the Alternative Learning System (ALS) passed the 2012 exam for the elementary level while 41.66 percent qualified for the secondary level. Digna Natura, ALS Education Program Supervisor in Ilocos Sur, said the 45 passers out of 105 who took the examination for the elementary level are now allowed to enrol in high school, while the 461 passers out of 1,109 takers for the ...
  • DPWH fast-tracks construction of school buildings

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Second Leyte Engineering District is fast-tracking the construction of school buildings in time for the opening of classes today. Margarita Junio, district engineer, said the target is to finish all 37 one-classroom buildings by June, two-classroom buildings by August, and three-classroom buildings before the year ends. He added that the target is realistic since it takes about 45 days to complete a one-c...
  • DepEd Eastern Visayas builds additional classrooms

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is building 456 classrooms worth P827.65 million from the Department of Education's (DepEd) budget. This is to address the classroom shortage in Eastern Visayas. DepEd Assistant Regional Director Rebecca Ragrag said the need for 1,848 more classrooms in the region will not result to classes being held under trees. She added that “all academic classrooms that are being used as principal’s office, cant...
  • DepEd: Schools ready to welcome 20.8M students

    PASIG CITY, June 3 -- Around 20.8 million students are expected to troop today in all public schools nationwide with the opening of School Year 2013-2014, the Department of Education said. Of these number, 1.78 million are Kindergarten pupils; 13.3 million are elementary and 5.7 million are high school students. "Ideally, teachers should start Day 1 with Lesson 1 so that we maximize contact time with students.” Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro said as he expressed readiness of DepEd to...
  • TESDA graduates 761 studes in skills training

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, June 3 (PIA) -- Seven hundred sixty-one individuals have successfully graduated in the different specialization of skills development training offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Region 2. Director-General of TESDA, Secretary Joel Villanueva, graced the occasion and inspired the graduates in the graduation ceremony held at the University of Cagayan Valley Greyhounds gymnasium on May 30. The graduates were able to finish courses for natio...
  • Sec. Villanueva urges unemployed individuals to undergo skills training

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, June 3 (PIA) -- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director-General, Secretary Joel Villanueva, has urged unemployed individuals to enrol at the TESDA skills development trainings to be able to compete with other applicants. Villanueva said that there’s a bigger chance for a certified TESDA specialist to be accepted in job applications rather than those who graduated with flying colors without any skills acquired, especially for abroad. “We have g...
  • DSWD, TESDA conduct “cash for training” in Bayog

    BAYOG, Zamboanga del Sur, June 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) conducted a “Cash for Training” on Organic Agriculture Production (OAP) and Driving and Auto Servicing (D & AC) here on Tuesday at the Glupa Gulian Agro-Tourism Park in Barangay Kahayagan. The program aimed to empower the disadvantaged youths through skills training and assistance for a gainful employment by venturing them into entrepreneurial activities. This was done in partnership with Tech...
  • 'No demolition' pact signed between DILG, Estero dwellers

    MANILA, May 31 (PIA) -- There’s nothing that a good dialogue cannot do. This was proven on Wednesday by rallying urban poor groups opposing the government’s planned relocation of families living along the waterways of Metro Manila, when the Department of Interior and Local Government agreed to some sort of a ceasefire: the government will not demolish. A memorandum of agreement was signed between the two parties calling for the joint implementation of on-site or near-site relocation for ...
  • OWWA holds financial literacy seminar for kids of OFWs in Bulacan

    MALOLOS CITY, Bulacan, June 3 (PIA) -- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Region 3, in partnership with PRU Life UK, recently conducted a financial literacy seminar for 160 children of Overseas Filipinos in Norzagaray town, Bulacan. “The kids, whose age ranged from 7 to 12, participated in the exciting and fun-filled activities. They were taught money-smart values shown on the episodes of Cha-Ching, Pru Life UK’s flagship financial literacy for the youth program,” OWWA Central...
  • DOLE holds Labor-Management Forum in Clark

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, June 3 (PIA) -- Around 90 labor and management representatives from 30 locators within and outside Clark Freeport recently attended a Labor-Management Forum organized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). DOLE Pampanga Provincial Director Arlene Tolentino said the forum, which as anchored on the theme “Gearing towards a Stress-Free, Health, and Productive Workplace”, is a series of discussions on the latest labor updates and other related labor la...
  • Pantawid Pamilya regional meet set

    PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan, June 3 (PIA) -- The MIMAROPA advisory committee led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development IV-B is set to meet on June 5-7 in this city to gain a better appreciation of the implementation of the Pantawid Pamilya Program, As the committee’s lead convenor, DSWD IV-B/MIMAROPA Regional Director Wilma D. Naviamos will open the three-day conference which will be participated by regional and provincial implementing and partner agencies of the 4Ps. In a l...
  • Ilocos Sur eyes malaria-free tag

    VIGAN CITY, June 1 (PIA) – Ilocos Sur draws closer to being declared malaria-free provided it maintains a zero record of malaria incidents this year. Rogelio D. Varilla, Malaria Control Foreman of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Health Team Office(PHTO), said an area is declared malaria-free if it has no recorded incidents for five consecutive years. The declaration comes from the World Health Organization in coordination with the National Malaria Control Service . Since 2009, the province has ha...
  • 2.5M elementary, HS students in CL expected for SY 2013-2014

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, June 1 (PIA) -- Around 2.5 million students in Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales are expected to fill-in classrooms beginning Monday for the opening of School Year 2013-2014. “From the figure, 1.9 million are in public schools while 600,000 are in private. Some 61,000 teachers are also expected to return for work” Department of Education (DepEd) Regional Director Isabelita Borres disclosed. The Central Luzon Education chief...
  • DepEd seeks more teachers

    DAVAO CITY, June 1 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) this year will be seeking more teachers as it has opened the highest number of teaching slots in the Department's history. Dodong Atillo DepEd XI spokesman said that the Department has approved 61,510 teaching positions for the schoolyear 2013-2014, which is a huge increase compared to previous hiring of an average to about 10,000 teachers. He said that in Region XI alone DepEd is seeking to hire 2,923 more teachers which compared...
  • Farmers, fisher folks converge for best practices

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, June 1 (PIA) -- While many Samarnon are busy buying school supplies for their children for the opening of classes, farmers and fisher folks gave their whole day in learning and sharing best farming practices and gain some knowledge in farming. Some two hundred participants joined the 9th farmers and fisher folks’ congress at the Calbayog City Convention Center, May 30. “We need doctors, we need teachers, we need lawyers, but we need farmers three times a day,” De...
  • 25 Sarangani fishermen repatriated from Indonesia to arrive tomorrow

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 31 (PIA) -- Twenty-five fishermen who were jailed in Indonesia are expected to arrive tomorrow, June 1, in Glan town, Sarangani after they were released by the Indonesian government, an official of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 12 confirmed today. Norhata Benito, disaster risk reduction and management focal person of DSWD 12, told Philippine Information Agency 12, this afternoon that said fisherm...
  • 7 private colleges and universities in CAR to implement tuition hike

    BAGUIO CITY, May 31 (PIA) -– Seven colleges and universities were allowed by the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR) to increase their tuition and other school fees this school opening. CHED-CAR Assistant Regional Director Ramon Santiago in an interview over DZEQ - Radyo ng Bayan announced that CHED has granted 10 percent tuition and miscellaneous hike to Pines City Colleges, Baguio College of Technology (BCT), Baguio Central University (BCU) f...
  • Dengue monitoring now in place in Ilocos Sur

    VIGAN CITY, May 31 (PIA) – The provincial health office has designated nurses to provide weekly updates on dengue incidents from government and private hospitals in the province to prevent possible dengue outbreaks. Rogelio D. Varilla, Malaria Control Foreman of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Health Team Office (PHTO), said the weekly updates will enable health officers to address any possible dengue outbreak. The latest report received by the PHTO, showed that 61 patients were confined for dengu...
  • DepEd Ifugao calls on parents to enroll kids before June 7

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, May 31 (PIA) --The Department of Education here called on all parents to enroll their children before June 7 to ensure that they are included in the list of enrollees to be submitted to the DepEd Central Office. Schools Division Superintendent Felipe Ballitoc made this appeal in the radio program “Humangan with PIA”. He explained that the number of enrollees is the basis of the DepEd in downloading funding to the different schools nationwide. Basing on the records of the ...
  • Flood evacuation drill set for Dgte barangay

    DUMAGUETE CITY, May 31 (PIA) -- The Dumaguete City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (DRRMC) is set to conduct an early warning and flood evacuation drill on Saturday, June 1, from 8 am to 12 noon at Barangay Candau-ay, this city. The drill is conducted under DRRMC's Noah’s Ark Project. Project Officer Arcel Dacir said the activity initiated by the Corporate Network for Disaster Response (CNDR) and Smart Communication. The early warning and evacuation drill is a result of the s...
  • 60 Roxas City's SPES grantees end summer job

    ROXAS CITY, Capiz, May 31 (PIA6) -- Sixty college students who took part in the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) will end their 20-day summer job today. Public Employment Service Office (PESO) – Roxas City manager Mila Barquin said the city government has sponsored the full payment of the stipend for the SPES grantees who were assigned in the various departments and offices at the City Hall as well as some national government agencies. Republic Act No. 9547 which mand...
  • 400 farmers in EV complete DA’s university on the air course

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 31 (PIA) --Almost 400 students who enrolled in University on the Air Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Eastern Visayas graduated Wednesday during the culminating exercises held at Leyte Park Gym Tacloban City. The students most of them farmers come from several municipalities in Leyte and Samar who listens to the radio to know the lessons through the farmcasters and some resource persons coming from DA. The farmer/graduates on Rice Postharvest an...
  • Phl lacks licensed guidance counselors

    DAVAO CITY, May 30 -- The country lacks registered and licensed guidance counselors, according to Luzviminda S. Guzman, chair of the Board of Guidance Counselors-Professional Regulation Commission. Guzman said that currently there are 2,266 licensed guidance counselors all over the country. She said that ideally there should be a ratio of 1 guidance counselor for every 500 students, but at the moment there is one counselor serving over a thousand students. She said currently the country nee...
  • Doctors say risky sexual behaviors common denominator of HIV and cervical cancer

    BAGUIO CITY, May 30 (PIA) -- Risky sexual behavior is a common denominator of acquiring HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and the Human Pappiloma Virus or HPV, a known link in acquiring cervical cancer. In a Department of Health- led kapihan media forum, Wednesday, Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) HIV/AIDS Core Team chair Dr. Maria Lorena Santos reported an increasing number of HIV cases in the BGHMC registry. Since 2006 they have already screened 72 cases which include...
  • Immigration consultants, travel agencies not allowed to recruit OFWs- POEA

    QUEZON CITY, May 30 (PIA)--The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) warned immigration consultants and travel agencies against offering overseas employment in the guise of visa assistance. Administrator Hans Leo J. Cacdac said that luring clients to avail of their services by promising them overseas employment is tantamount to illegal recruitment under Republic Act No. 8042 as amended by Republic Act No. 10022. Cacdac said travel and immigration consultancy agencies, if foun...
  • DOLE 12 holds Labor Day for the CCT beneficiaries in Sarangani

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 30 (PIA) -- Graduating Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries in Sarangani province are expected to benefit from the “Workers in the Informal Sector Labor Day” being held today in Malapatan town. The labor day, intended for the beneficiaries of the conditional cash transfer program of the national government, is being led by the Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Social ...
  • 816 trainees graduate through C4TP in Kalinga

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 30 (PIA) -– The Cash for Training Project (C4TP) in the province has recently produced 816 new skilled workers who were personally confirmed by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Regional Director Yolanda Olano during a mass graduation rite held on May 29 here. From the total number, 133 beneficiaries were from Lubuagan, 140 from Pinukpuk, 74 from Tinglayan, 90 from Tanudan, 40 from Rizal, 92 from Balbalan, 130 were from Pasil and 117 from Ta...
  • PMA Class '81 grants educational assistance to orphans of typhoon Pablo

    DAVAO CITY, May 30 (PIA) -- Members of the Dimpalupig class of 1981 at the Philippine Military Academy reached out to the victims of the typhoon Pablo by giving scholarship grants to 12 young survivors in time for the new school year. Captain Raul Villegas, public affairs officer of the 10th Infantry Division said the educational assistance is coursed through the Armed Forces of the Philippines Educational Benefit System Office. He said the Dimalupig class of 1981 is able to raise P1 Million a...
  • DepEd calls for community participation on first day of school

    PASIG CITY, May 30 -- The Department of Education (DepEd) is asking school heads to involve community leaders in the opening of classes, suggesting that they be present on the first flag ceremony of school year 2013-2014 on June 3. “It takes an entire village to educate a child, therefore we must involve everyone on the first day,” Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said. “From the parents to local leaders to representatives of the PNP, everyone who has a stake in the future of ...
  • North Cotabato town records no price hike in school supplies days before classes start

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 30 (PIA)--Prices of school supplies in Kabacan, North Cotabato remains the same a few days before the school opening. Bookstore and school supply stall owners in the town said that the prices of school supplies are as low as last year’s price. Notebooks are sold from P10 to P20 while binders’ price ranges from P140 to P200 depending on size, thickness and brand. On the other hand, a special pad paper is sold from P12 to P15 while the ordinary ones are s...
  • OWWA Cordillera new scholars undergo life skills and career guidance workshops

    BAGUIO CITY, May 30 (PIA) -- In preparation for the opening of school year 2013 – 2014, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Cordillera Regional Welfare Office (OWWA – CAR), gathered its scholars in a conference that featured life skills and career guidance workshops. The two-day college scholar conference was held last May 24 and 25 at the Sta. Catalina Spirituality Center along Marcos Highway and was attended by 103 incoming college scholars of OWWA from various parts of the Cord...
  • DOH 12 vows release of travelling allowances of RN HEALS nurses

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 30 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) in Soccsksargen Region assured nurses hired under the Registered Nurses for Health Enhancement and Local Service (RN HEALS) Project that they will receive their overdue travelling allowances. Jenelyn Ellie Ventura said vouchers for the said allowances are being processed for the eventual release of the funds. “According to our disbursing officer, there were problems with t...
  • DepEd GenSan gears up for better service this school year

    GENERAL SANTOS CITY, May 30 (PIA)-- As the school year opens in June, the Department of Education (DepEd) here is bent on giving better service to students in public schools from kindergarten, elementary to high school. Diosdado Ablanido, DepEd GenSan city schools division superintendent said DepEd is currently and strictly implementing a “no payment policy” during enrollment in all levels. He said this policy aims to encourage more parents to enroll their children this school year in lin...
  • SPES offers summer jobs to 213 students in Compostela Valley

    COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE, May 29 (PIA) – A total of 213 students took part in the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) in partnership with the provincial government. Every summer, the province through the SPES Program provides summer jobs to students (dubbed SPES Babies) in order to help their parents in preparing their needs for the opening of classes. For the efforts, the students received a daily wage of P250. Of this amount, ...
  • DSWD earmarks P281M for feeding program in WVisayas

    ILOILO CITY, May 29 (PIA6) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development targets to release some P281,322,600 this year for the implementation of the Supplementary Feeding Program in Western Visayas for the period of 120 days. At least 180,335 children, aging three to five years old, enrolled in some 5,557 day care centers in the region will benefit from the program this year, according to DSWD 6. Under the program, children beneficiaries are provided food in the form of hot meals, as ...
  • OWWA-10 releases livelihood assistance to five OFWs in MisOr

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 29 (PIA) -- The National Reintegration Center for Overseas Filipino Workers (NRCO) through the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in region 10 has released financial livelihood assistance to five overseas Filipino workers in Misamis Oriental. OWWA-10 Director Petrona Bergado, assisted by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Director Atty. Johnson Cañete, spearheaded the awarding of checks amounting to P10,000 each to the beneficiaries during t...
  • Number of teenage mothers in GenSan on the rise

    GENERAL SANTOS CITY, May 29 (PIA) -- The City Population Management Office (CPMO) is alarmed over the increasing teen pregnancy here despite massive government advocacy efforts. City population management officer Erlinda Grafilo said that statistics for young mothers and fathers in the city are "frustratingly" increasing. As of 2012, teen pregnancy or young mothers with age range 10-20 years old reached 3,010 cases with 767 recorded young fathers. Grafilo said these data were based on the b...
  • PSHS in Region 12 opens in June

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 29 (PIA) -- The Philippine Science High School - Soccsksargen Region Campus (PSHS-SRC) here will finally open its gates to the first batch of students in June. Dr. Zenaida Hadji Raof Laidan, regional director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) 12 said 90 freshmen high school -- Grade 7 in the K to 12 system -- students will comprise the maiden class. She said, based on the results of the national competitive e...
  • DOLE-10 signs MoU with guidance counselors network, other gov’t agencies to solve job mismatch

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has forged a partnership with the Career Guidance Counselors Network (CGN) and other government agencies to address job mismatch in Region 10. The regional offices of DOLE-10, Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Professional Regulations Commissions (PRC), Department of Tou...
  • DepEd Abra reiterates ‘no collection fee’ policy of DepEd

    BANGUED, Abra, May 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) here reiterated the implementation of the “no collection fee” policy in the public schools. In an interview with the local media here, Dr. Rosita Castillo-Brillantes, Division Schools Superintendent, warned her ranks in the Division of Abra to strictly abide by the Department policy of “no collection fee” not only during the enrolment period but throughout the school year. Brillantes urged parents to report teac...
  • PLAN Int'l strengthens campaign on girls' rights

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, May 29 (PIA) -- Plan International, a children's development organisation, recently conducted a forum to increase girls’ awareness and understanding of their rights, particularly the right to protection against abuse and exploitation. The forum entitled Girls’ Camp, which was held at the gym of the Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School (ESNCHS), was attended in by some 100 young girls and boys who came from the Plan areas of the province: Salcedo, H...
  • Health officials air warning vs. water-borne diseases

    ROXAS CITY, Capiz, May 29 (PIA) -- Health officials again warned Capiz residents against water-borne diseases especially with the onset of the rainy season. Capiz Provincial Health Office Medical Specialist Evelyn Bolido said that the public must take precautionary measures against water-borne diseases that affect especially children. Bolido said preventable diseases include dengue, diarrhea, influenza, leptospirosis and typhoid fever. Waterborne diseases are caused by pathogenic microorga...
  • DPWH 4th LED constructs new school buildings

    ORMOC CITY, May 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highwyas (DPWH) - Leyte Fourth Engineering District is currently constructing additional school buildings which are expected to benefit 995 students. The school buildings that are being built are as follows: Puerto Bello Vocational School, Merida, Leyte; Matlang National High School, Isabel, Leyte; Tinablan National High School, Palompon, Leyte; Isabel National Agricultural and Vocational School, Isabel, Leyte and New Ormoc City Nat...
  • TESDA-NegOr sets up info desk at Robinsons Place

    DUMAGUETE CITY, May 29 (PIA)--The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Negros Oriental has established recently a functional information desk at the 2nd floor of Robinsons Place-Dumaguete City for easier access of information on TESDA’s services. TESDA information officer Geraldine delos Reyes said, this is in concurrence with TESDA-national and Robinson's Land Corporation which inked a memorandum of agreement recently that allows the establishment of TESDA information...
  • 1.4M WVisayas studes expected in schools

    ILOILO CITY, May 29 (PIA) -- A total of 1,492,287 pupils and students in public elementary and secondary schools in Western Visayas are expected to be back in school on June 3. Data obtained from Department of Education 6 said that of the number, 1,027,019 are elementary pupils and 465,268 are high school students. Based on DepEd Order No. 10 series of 2013 issued on February 20, this year, the opening of classes in public schools for this school year 2013 -2014 is on June 3, 2013...
  • Disaster preparedness now integrated in school curriculum in Eastern Visayas

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) has integrated disaster preparedness into the school curriculum in Eastern Visayas. The acquired knowledge and skills are expected to lessen the impact of disasters that may strike in high-risk areas in the region. Rey Goson, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) regional director, said the education sector play an important role in the prevention and mitigation of hazards from becoming a disaster and that teaching disaster pr...
  • Community support needed for troubled kids

    ILOILO CITY, May 29 (PIA) --- The community plays a big role in the complete rehabilitation and re-integration of children in conflict with the law (CICL) so they could become productive members of the society. June Tercena, Social Welfare Officer of the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-6), said that urging the community in contributing to the restoration of the social functioning of the CICL to live a normal life has bee...
  • 26 finish course under training for work scholarship program in Kalinga

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 29 (PIA) -- Twenty six trainees from four towns and this city were trained on masonry and carpentry under the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) of the government. Anthony Luminang of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)Kalinga provincial office said that this batch of trainees were the first beneficiaries of the TWSP in the province which aims to capacitate enrolees of technical skills for gainful employment. He said that five each from this ...
  • Southern Leyte agriculture office leads research with other LGUs

    SOUTHERN LEYTE, May 29 (PIA) -- The Provincial Agricultural Services Office (PAgSO) of this province has initiated at least four research activities this year aimed at improving quality products and engaging in environment-friendly agriculture practices. This was reported by PAgSO during an orientation-briefing on the revised agri-research development and extension implementation held last week at the Southern Leyte Provincial Research and Extension Center (SLPREC) at Barangay Panan-awan, Maa...
  • Additional two years in K to 12 is free - DepEd Southern Leyte

    PADRE BURGOS, Southern Leyte, May 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) Southern Leyte Schools Division said the government will shoulder the cost of two more years in high school by 2016, the year the K to 12 Basic Education Program will be in full swing. DepEd Supt. Violeta Alocilja made the announcement during a press conference held here as part of the promotion for the K to 12 advocacy, as well as the provincial launching of the Brigada Eskwela, Public Assistance Center in schoo...
  • DOLE calls on remaining OFWs in Syria to return home

    QUEZON CITY, May 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) renewed its call to remaining overseas Filipino workers in Syria to leave the war torn country and return home to the Philippines. Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz reiterated her call to OFWs stressing that a total deployment ban remains in effect in Syria in view of the worsening Syrian civil war. “The highest Crisis Alert Level imposed by the Philippine government since December 2011 continues to b...
  • 243 youth pass acceleration and equivalency test in Mt. Province

    BONTOC, Mt. Province, May 29 (PIA) -- A total of 243 youth in the province passed the 2012 Alternative Learning System Acceleration and Equivalency (ALS A & E) test. Education Program Supervisor for Alternative Learning System Susan Aminor of the Mt. Province Division Office said that of the total passers, only six passed the elementary level who are now qualified to enrol in high school and 237 passed the high school level who are now qualified to enrol in college. Some 921 high school and ...
  • DepEd USec Deriquito visits Camarines Norte for Brigada Eskwela

    DAET, Camarines Norte, Mayo 29 (PIA) -- Undersecretary Mario A. Deriquito of the Department of Education (DepEd) visited three schools in Camarines Norte to join and personally give his thanks to the volunteers who participated in the Brigada Eskwela here Wednesday (May 22). He visited the Daet Elementary School and Camarines Norte National High School in Daet and D. Q. Liwag National High School in Vinzons town. Daet Elementary School and D.Q. Liwag National High School were commended for th...
  • Cordillera PESO managers meet to improve service

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 29 (PIA) -- Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers and guidance counselors in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) are in Baguio City to attend two regional meetings to improve service. Anthony Luminang of DOLE-Kalinga said that on May 28-29 is scheduled the 1st Quarter PESO federation meeting and the regional advocacy congress for the Philippine Career Guidance Counselors Network (PCGN)- CAR Chapter is scheduled on May 30. Luminang said that the fir...
  • 'Buntis Congress' to help lessen maternal mortality

    VIRAC, Catanduanes, May 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) through the Rural Health Unit (RHU) of Virac conducted the Buntis Congress on May 24 to help lessen maternal-related mortality. The Buntis Congress was held to raise awareness among the pregnant and “would be pregnant” on the importance of proper health and nutrition before, during and after pregnancy. Topics that were covered in the activity are maternal and child health interventions including antenatal registration, hig...
  • Safety training for NegOr engineers held in Cebu

    CEBU CITY, May 29 (PIA) -- A training on Construction Safety and Health for Site Safety Officers was organized recently by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Field Office 7 at Elizabeth Hotel, this city. The training was attended by DSWD’s 22 engineers from the different towns of Negros Oriental. The activity was in support to the ongoing implementation of various small-scale infrastructure projects undertaken by the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive an...
  • DSWD trains development workers in NegOr

    CEBU CITY, May 28 (PIA) -- Over 85 development workers from Negros Oriental towns attended the gender and development (GAD) sensitivity training of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-7 at Hotel Essencia in Dumaguete City recently. Among the participants were community facilitators, social engineers and area coordinators who have direct stake in the management of the on-going construction of various community projects of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive a...
  • Global Fund Against Malaria replaces, re-treats bed nets in Kalinga

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 28 (PIA) -- The Global Fund Against Malaria is up with the replacement and re-treatment of bed nets under its anti-malaria and anti-dengue program in Kalinga with the onset of the rainy season. Global Fund Against Malaria Provincial Coordinator May Ann Cosip said that the activity undertaken with the Municipal Health Offices (MHOs), is timed at this period in anticipation of easy proliferation of mosquitoes during the rainy season. Cosip said that the nets distribute...
  • DSWD-Cordillera to launch core strategy for poverty reduction

    BAGUIO CITY, May 28 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Cordillera will launch the National Community-Driven Development Program (NCDDP), a core strategy for poverty reduction, in July. DSWD Regional Director Leonardo Reynoso said that the NCDDP is the expansion into the national scale operations of the community-driven development (CDD) strategy that has been tried and proven effective in the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan- Comprehensive and Integrated Del...
  • DepEd Southern Leyte hires 175 new teachers

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, May 28 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) Southern Leyte Schools Division has hired 175 new teachers to augment the teaching workforce in the province. “We have good news, the Southern Leyte Schools Division hired 175 new teachers last week,” Dr. Violeta Alocilja, schools division superintendent said during the Brigada Eskwela launching and press conference last May 22. The average class size in the province now is one teacher for every 35 students fo...
  • DTI: Price of school supplies remains stable

    QUEZON CITY, May 28 --With the opening of classes just less than a week, the Department of Trade and Industry –National Capital region assured the consumers that the price and supply of school supplies in the market will remain generally stable. DTI-NCR Assistant Regional Director Ferdinand Manfoste told during Diskwento Caravan in Malabon that prices of schools supplies in Metro Manila are stable and within the suggested retail price (SRP). “We have a good prospect for the prices of scho...
  • News Feature: Floating bookstore brings hope, goodwill

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, May 28 (PIA) -- The Logos Hope community, which is behind the famous floating bookstore, pictures volunteerism and symbolizes international goodwill. The MV Logos Hope, the fourth GBA ship operating as an international floating book shop, is a registered passenger ship in Malta with up to 400 non-salaried volunteer crew and staff from different nations, including many serving in their professional capacity as seafarers, engineers, electricians, nurses, teachers and cooks. Th...
  • Capiz steps up dengue campaign

    ROXAS CITY, Capiz, May 28 (PIA6) – Capiceños need to intensify preventive measures against the spread of dengue-carrying mosquitoes. Information Officer Joeffrey Espiritu of the Capiz Provincial Health Office said that with the continued rise in dengue cases in the province, Capiceños must always be on guard and the public must take a concerted effort against said deadly disease. Espiritu revealed that from January 1 to May 18 this year, the PHO recorded at total of 637 dengue cases, of ...
  • News Feature: Hong Kong studes join Brigada Eskwela

    DAGUPAN CITY, May 27 (PIA) -- Students from the Hong Kong-based International Christian School (ICS) spent a day working for the Brigada Eskwela campaign and earned a thousand experiences from another culture. ICS High School Principal Brian Van Tassel said that their students go on a journey in other parts of the world every year to learn things that would help them in the future and they learned a lot in their participation in the Brigada Eskwela. “We don’t just want them to go out and m...
  • Northern Mindanao workers to receive wage hike

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 27 (PIA) -- Minimum wage earners in Northern Mindanao will receive a new round of wage increase this year. Lawyer Johnson Cañete, regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), said Wage Order 17 will soon be implemented by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB). He said the RTWPB has already forwarded its recommendations to the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) after it has deliberated on two wage petitions...
  • DOLE orients informal sector workers on social protection, livelihood programs

    BAGUIO CITY, May 27 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment -Cordillera (DOLE-CAR) conducted an orientation on the government’s social protection and livelihood programs to 100 members of 15 informal sector workers groups in Baguio-Benguet area on May 15. Farmers, persons with disability (PWDs), Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), ambulant vendors, senior citizens, youth and other informal sector workers joined the activity which was held in line with the celebration of this year’s La...
  • DSWD calls for vigilance for fake 4Ps registration

    NAGA CITY, May 27 (PIA) -- Two days after the mid-term polls, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office in Bicol, received reports that the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps was used by politicians in Camarines Sur to gain vote from their constituents. The persistent report and feed backs prompted DSWD 5 regional director Arnel Garcia to issue a press statement denying the allegations, saying that there were no such activities coordinated in their office. ...
  • Mt. Province 4Ps beneficiaries get P4.6M for livelihood projects

    BONTOC, Mountain Province, May 27 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) released P4,629,500 for seed capital of some 512 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries in this province. This is part of the agency's Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). Jessie Chilem of the DSWD office here said that P2,652,500 of the total amount was released to some 310 families of the first set of 4Ps which was implemented in the municipalities of Natonin, Paracelis and Sa...
  • LGUs aided to enhance project proposals for corn, cassava under LPRAP

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 27 (PIA) -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) 10 through its Agri-Pinoy Corn Program has allotted P17 million out of its P115 million budget for 2013 to implement projects under the Local Poverty Reduction Action Plan (LPRAP). To speed up implementation, the DA-Corn Program conducted a workshop and coaching activity on the preparation and refinement of project proposals for corn and cassava. The municipal corn coordinators and municipal agriculture officers from the lo...
  • DTI Iligan to hold Diskwento Caravan Balik Eskwela on May 28-29

    ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, May 27 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is offering huge discounts on school supplies, food and non-food items in the Diskwento Caravan Balik Eskwela on May 28-29, 2013 at the Rizal Park, Iligan City. The caravan is part of the government’s non-wage benefits program, which provides workers and their families access to basic commodities and services at discounted prices of at least ten percent, augmenting their income and providing them with fin...
  • Panabo City HS stude a potential “economic hero” says city mayor

    PANABO CITY, Davao del Norte, May 27 -- The local chief executive here lauded the high school student here who brought honor to the country as well as to this city in an international competition recently. “Tinod-a gayud ang imong research (continue your research) for you to have a brighter future and become an economic hero for Davao del Norte” said Mayor Jose S. Silvosa, Sr. to Judel Jay Tabsing who was recently awarded as the 4th Grand Award Winner at the Intel International Science and ...
  • TESDA eyes professionalization of Kasambahays in CL through trainings

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 27 (PIA) -- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is eyeing the professionalization of house helpers in Central Luzon, pursuant to the Kasambahay Law, through several training. In an interview, TESDA Operations Chief Aileen De Jesus said “House helpers could avail of the NC II on Household Services (National Certificate ll) training which include competencies on cleaning the house (living rooms, bedrooms, kitchen, toilet) food and be...
  • Food terminal operators undergo prod’n technology training

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 26 (PIA) -- In a bid to boost income generating capacities of Barangay food Terminals (BFTs), the Department of Agriculture in Region 12 recently gathered operators of the community food depots for production technology training. Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division chief Bai Dido Samama said the training which included 15 BFTs established in North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces in 2012 was also inte...
  • DOLE intensfies advocacy against child labor

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 27 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through its Lanao del Norte provincial office is intensifying its advocacy on the eradication of child labor. The DOLE-Lanao del Norte office forged an alliance with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to raise awareness among Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries on the adverse effects of exposing their children to high-risk work environments. A series of community-based an...
  • Ilocos Sur pays students in summer job

    Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, May 27 (PIA) --The provincial government has paid at least 100 students who rendered services under the Summer Job Program. The students of the Agriculture Campus of the Ilocos Sur Community College (ISCC) worked as assistants in the Barangay Demo-Farm campus and the provincial government and the Department of Labor and Employment paid for the students’ wages amounting to P200 each per day with the former shouldering P120 and the rest by the latter. The special program ...
  • Gulayan sa Paaralan in 500 public schools in ARMM launched

    COTABATO CITY, May 27 (PIA) -- Some 500 public elementary schools in the autonomous region are beneficiaries of the Gulayan sa Paaralan program of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DAF-ARMM). As a regular program of the agriculture department, Gulayan sa Paaralan was launched during this year’s Regional Farm Family Congress here in celebration of the 22nd year anniversary of the devolution of DAF-ARMM. This is being implemented in collab...
  • TF Davao assures commitment to extend Brigada Eskwela assistance

    DAVAO CITY, May 27 (PIA) -- A total of 70 members of the Task Force Davao participated in the National School Maintenance Program or Brigada Eskwela in six public schools of the city last week. Based on the post-activity assessment, 2Lt. Chrystin Joan Pamplona, civil-military operations officer of the Task Force Davao said soldiers lend a hand in cleaning andrepairing several schools namely the V. L. Aliongto Elementary School, Doña Pilar Marfori Elementary School, Magallanes Elementary School...
  • DOH 3 prepares for surge of certain diseases this rainy season

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 27 (PIA) -- Department of Health-Center for Health Development 3 (DOH-CHD 3) has laid out its various programs in anticipation of the surge of certain diseases this rainy season. “We are prepared for the rainy season. We will specifically monitor dengue which traditionally increases during the months of June, July, and August,” said DOH Regional Director Leonita Gorgolon. “We are happy to note that we see a decreasing trend in the past years in the num...
  • Foster Care Act of 2012, an invitation to share love – DSWD

    QUEZON CITY, May 25, (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development – National Capital Region (DSWD-NCR) conducted a forum on “Aruga at Kalinga Para Sa Mga Bata sa Barangay: Alternative Parental Care for Children in Need of Special Protection” last Wednesday at Makati Palace Hotel. The salient features of the Republic Act (RA) 10165 or the Foster Care Act of 2012 were discussed and the different caring institutions in Metro Manila led by DSWD-NCR shared strategies and challen...
  • PCIC to distribute indemnity checks to rice farmers in Leyte

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 25 (PIA) -- The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) in Eastern Visayas is set to distribute indemnity checks worth P536,790 to 148 farmers in Leyte on Monday, May 27. Nilo Pesquira, chief of the Marketing and Sales Division of PCIC in the region said the distribution of indemnity checks will be conducted during the Department of Agriculture (DA)-initiated Farmers and Fisherfolks’ Month celebration at DA 8 grounds. He said the checks will serve as claim paym...
  • Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary holds national confab, draws praise from gov't.

    DAVAO CITY, May 24 (PIA) -- The Department of Transportation and Communication lauded the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary for its assistance in the work of the Philippine Coast Guard on saving lives in land and at sea. Speaking during the opening ceremony of the 29th PCGA National Convention held in Davao City Thursday, Rear Admiral Cecil Chen, commander of the PCG-National Capital Region read the message of Usec Bucayan citing the relevance of upholding public safety especially at sea. He la...
  • DepED orders no clean-up on day of class opening

    DAVAO DEL NORTE, May 23 (PIA) -- No teachers should be seen either cleaning the classroom or the school ground on June 3, Davao del Norte Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division superintendent Dr. Josephine Fadul said. She cautioned public school teachers whom she expected to start the regular classes of school year 2012-2013 on June 3. In an interview she bared plans to move around and check public elementary and secondary schools placed under the supervision of Davao del Norte...
  • Pasil approves P2.016M for Kalahi-CIDSS

    PASIL, Kalinga, May 24 (PIA) -- The municipal government has approved its counterpart budget for the second cycle project implementation of the Kapit-bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) amounting to P2.016 million. Kalahi-CIDSS Pasil Area Coordinator Engr. Joel Cubit said that with the approval and signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the local government and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the program has for...
  • DepEd reiterates no-collection policy

    PASIG CITY, May 24 -- Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro has reiterated the Department of Education (DepEd) policy that strictly prohibits the collection of fees during enrolment in all public schools when school year 2013-2014 opens on June 3. Based on DepEd Order 41 series of 2012 (“Revised guidelines on the opening of classes”), Luistro has directed all school officals that no fees shall be collected from school children in kindergarten up to Grade 4 anytime during school year 2013-...
  • 4 Bohol schools earn citations as best Brigada implementers

    CORTES, Bohol, May 24 (PIA) – Four Bohol elementary and secondary schools got citations for their best implementation of the government’s annual school repair and maintenance activities dubbed as "Brigada Eskwela." Department of Education’s (DepED) Resource Generation and Mobilization Unit Chief Desiderio Deligero said these schools represent two categories for high school and elementary schools whose participation in the Brigada Eskwela surpassed Bohol Division’s and the national gove...
  • Every day is 'Brigada Eskwela' in Southern Leyte - DepEd

    PADRE BURGOS, Southern Leyte, May 24 (PIA) -- The Southern Leyte Schools Division of the Department of Education (DepEd) launched the week-long Brigada Eskwela or National Maintenance Week yesterday at the Sto. Rosario Elementary School in Padre Burgos. “Every day is Brigada Eskwela in Southern Leyte, that is why Southern Leyte DepEd Schools Division has been reaping national awards for outstanding performance of the national maintenance program through the years,” said Dr. Violeta Alocilj...
  • Australia provides P1.6M for Brigada Eskwela 2013

    PASAY CITY, May 23 (PIA) --- The Australian government has provided some P1.6 million for Brigada Eskwela program in 81 public schools mostly in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and some schools in Metro Manila. This will cover materials and supplies for minor repairs, repainting and cleaning of schools. “Australia’s participation in Brigada Eskwela is part of Australia’s significant and broader commitment to helping improve the quality of teaching and learning in the Philippines....
  • First public high school in Padre Burgos opens

    MACROHON, Southern Leyte, May 24 (PIA) -- The Villa Jacinta Technical-Vocational High School-Sto. Rosario, Padre Burgos Annex was inaugurated yesterday at Barangay Sto. Rosario. Congressman Roger Mercado, Padre Burgos Mayor Ricardo Borces, Provincial Schools Division Superintendent Violeta Alocilja, Department of Public Works and Highways District Engineer Carlos Veloso and barangay officials attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday. The annexed school formed is an integral part o...
  • DOH allots P5-Million for new psychiatric facility in Davao City

    DAVAO CITY, May 24 (PIA) -- The Department of Health assured that a new facility will be constructed to replace the old building of the Davao Mental Hospital or the psychiatric ward of the Southern Philippines Medical Center that was destroyed by fire that occurred Wednesday morning. Dr. Elmer Punzalan, assistant secretary of Health for special concerns and projects told reporters that the DOH has already allotted P5 M to refurbish the facility even before the fire incident happened. He said t...
  • Foreign couples adopt Filipino children with DSWD’s help

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 24 (PIA) -– The Department of Social Welfare and Development-10 has recorded around seven couples from around the world who are now all eyes with love for Filipino children that are legally available for adoption in 2013 beating off the 2012 record with only two inter-country adoptions. Recently, two couples from Indiana, United States of America, and Zaragosa, Spain visited the Regional Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) to finally meet their adopted chil...
  • 5,697 families in Region 12 get potable water from gov't

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 24 (PIA) -- At least 5,697 families in the hard-to-reach villages of Soccsksargen Region now have full access to safe drinking water courtesy of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. In a recent report, DSWD 12 Regional Director Bai Zorahayda Taha, said that the government has spent P16.32 million for the completion of community-owned water system projects in Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, and North Cotabato provinces. “The newly ...
  • Luistro asks school officials to strengthen nutrition programs

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, May 24 (PIA) -- Education Secretary Armin Luistro appealed to teachers and school officials here to strengthen their school’s nutrition program. Luistro visited schools here yesterday to see for himself how Brigada Eskwela is being held in the division of Eastern Samar. He said there are about 11,000 schoolchildren in the division who need immediate nutrition intervention programs. He added that the “Gulayan sa Paaralan” must be put into real practice where...
  • CHED okays tuition hike of 9 Eastern Visayas colleges

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 24 (PIA) -- The Commission on Higher Education has approved the application for a tuition fee increase of nine colleges or higher education institutions (HEIs) in Eastern Visayas. The CHED regional office said there were fourteen HEIs that applied for a tuition fee hike but only nine were able to comply with the requirements. Socorro Ramos of the CHED Technical Division said of the five which were not able to meet the requirements, one HEI decided not to continue wi...
  • DSWD targets pantawid children beneficiaries for enrolment

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, May 24 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Ilocos is eyeing to enrol Pantawid Pamilya children beneficiaries when school opens in June. DSWD Information Officer Allan O. Lulu said that at least 48,376 children ages 3-5 years old, and 183,015 children ages 6 to 14 are expected to be enrolled in primary schools this June. Lulu said that enrolling the children beneficiaries in primary schools will entail updating beneficiaries’ status under...
  • DSWD-10 conducts Social Protection Development Report and Risk and Vulnerability Assessment

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 24 (PIA) --The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 10 presented its Social Protection Development Report and Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (SPDR / RVA) to update government offices on the current poverty situation in the region. About 27 participants attended the activity on May 23 composed of social workers coming from across the region, representatives from National Statistics Coordination Board, Departments of Health, Natural Environment and...
  • UNICEF-EU project benefits WVisayas children, pregnant women

    NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, May 23 (PIA6) -- The region’s young children and pregnant women including those of Regions 5 and 9 were identified beneficiaries of the UNICEF-European funded Maternal and Young Child Nutrition Security Initiative in Asia or MYCNSIA project. MYCNSIA aims to reduce stunting levels in children under -2 years old, anemia rates among 6-23 months old children and anemia rates among pregnant women by 2014. National Food Authority-Negros Occidental Assistant Provincial Manager ...
  • Project ARTURO: building a community of readers

    COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE, May 24 PIA -- With education as one of his main advocacies, Compostela Valley Provincial Governor Arturo T. Uy has widened his educational programs ranging from scholarship, special program for employment of students during summer, on-the-job training, English proficiency, and reading programs. Project ARTURO (Accelerated Readers, Tomorrow’s Ultimate Response to Opportunities) now on its second phase, has opened opportunities not only for the pupils whose reading...
  • DepEd GenSan attributes success of Brigada Eskwela to participating stakeholders

    GENERAL SANTOS CITY, May 23 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) here is happy to note of the turn out of the Brigada Eskwela which kicked off simultaneously on Monday (May 20) in various public schools in the country. “It was a very successful endeavor in GenSan,” said Ronnie Sunggay, education program supervisor and information officer of DepEd-City Division Office here attributing the success to the "bayanihan spirit" of the different participating education stakeholders. The B...
  • PNoy signs into law amendment to the Meat Inspection Code of the Philippines

    MANILA, May 23 -- President Benigno S. Aquino III has signed into law a consolidated bill that seeks to amend the Meat Inspection Code of the Philippines to end the proliferation of so-called botcha or double-dead meat in markets through stiffer penalties on its sale, transport and handling. Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte announced during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Thursday that the Chief Executive signed last May 15 Republic Act 10536 otherwise known as An Act...
  • Misamis Occidental allots P13.3M for Special Educ Fund, CY 2013

    OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, May 22 (PIA) – A total of P13.3 million have been appropriated by the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental (PGMO) for projects/programs/activities under the Special Education Fund (SEF) for Calendar Year (CY) 2013. Of this amount, P3.425 million or 25.75 percent have been allocated for the first quarter of the year, Governor Herminia M. Ramiro, said. Likewise, of this annual appropriation, the highest amount of P6 million have been programmed for i...
  • DepEd, NCCA to train teachers for K to 12 students inclined towards the arts

    PASIG CITY, May 23 -- The Department of Education (DepEd) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) will conduct a Sanayguro national arts training for teachers of special program in the arts (SPA) to better prepare students who are inclined to take up arts for a living after graduation. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro in a statement said the training workshop will equip SPA public school teachers with comprehensive skills on developing regional heritage-based lessons. T...
  • PNoy urges employers to work with gov't in crafting policies to create more jobs

    MANILA, May 23 --President Benigno S. Aquino III called on employers to work together with his government to craft policies for the labor sector aimed at creating more jobs for the Filipino people. In his message to the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), the Chief Executive underscored the importance of the collaboration between the government and the confederation to advance the interest of the Filipino public. "Let your resounding voice enrich our discussions with insights on...
  • More classrooms, teachers for Central Visayas

    CEBU CITY, May 23 (PIA) -- The public school system in Region 7 is set to get a boost after the Department of Education (DepEd) announced the construction of additional classrooms and opening of new teacher items in the region. DepEd-7 Regional Director Dr. Carmelita Dulangon in a recent Kapihan forum disclosed that new classrooms are now being built in several public schools region-wide. Target accomplishment for 2013 is 602 total classrooms in Central Visayas. Of the total, Department of ...
  • Diskwento Caravan Balik Eskwela goes to the south

    PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan, May 23 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–Palawan will roll out its Diskwento Caravan starting May 27 and will last until the first week of June in the southern part of the province. Diskwento Caravan provides cheaper school supplies like notebooks, pencils, pens, bags, writing pads, art materials, and uniforms to parents who otherwise will be burdened with high costs of commodities before the opening of school. Discounts may range from 10 to 5...
  • NSO Southern Leyte sets workshop on PhilCris, proper accomplishment of registry forms

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, May 23 (PIA) -- The National Statistics Office (NSO) Southern Leyte provincial office will hold a training-workshop on the Philippine Civil Registry Information System (PhilCris) and on the proper accomplishment of civil registry documents this month. NSO Provincial Statistics Officer Mae R. Almonte said the workshop which will include laws and guidelines related to births and deaths have been scheduled on May 28-29 at the Sts. Peter and Paul Conference Hall in Hinu...
  • 500 Calbayog residents receive land titles from DENR

    CALBAYOG CITY, Samar, May 23 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) handed out Free Patent Titles to 500 residents from 53 barangays of Calbayog City last May 6. Under the government’s Handog Titulo Program, free titling services were offered by the DENR, the Calbayog City Register of Deeds and the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program of DAR. This is part of the government’s program of reducing poverty and increasing the productivity of people. The Free Pate...
  • Kalahi-CIDSS team conducts barangay assemblies for cycle 2

    PASIL, Kalinga, May 23 (PIA) - - The area coordinating team (ACT) of Kapit-bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) program in this municipality is conducting barangay assemblies in preparation for cycle 2 of the anti-poverty program. Joel Cubit, area coordinator of Pasil, said his team composed of local government unit department heads, is now conducting social preparations that include grassroot consultation and planning, community mobil...
  • Grade 2 teachers train on K to 12 curriculum

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, May 23 (PIA) -- About 276 Grade 2 teachers are now attending a joint mass training on the K to 12 Basic Education Program (BEP) of the Department of Education (DepEd) here which started Tuesday and will end on May 25. The training aims to provide all Grade 2 teachers with a concrete understanding of the Grade 2 curriculum and competencies, assessment and teaching plans and provide them with opportunities to acquire and demonstrate the values that will guide the te...
  • DSWD disburses over P13 M for 8,941 indigent senior citizens in CAR

    BAGUIO CITY, May 23 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Cordillera disbursed a total of P13,287,000 under the Social Pension Program (SPP) for 8,941 indigent senior citizens in the region for the first quarter this year. Regional Director Leonardo Reynoso said that the SSP distribution is intended to augment the basic needs of the senior citizens including medicine and other nutritional and health needs. The P500 monthly stipend is given to indigent, frai...
  • DepEd Kalinga trains multi-grade teachers

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 23(PIA) -- About 254 elementary teachers are currently undergoing training in handling multi-grade classes in the province. According to Dr. Marylinda Santos of the Department of Education Kalinga, the three-day training is being conducted per batch from May 16 to May 25. The training aims to capacitate and equip teachers the needed skills and knowledge in handling a multi-grade class to manage their curriculum, classes and schedules. A multi-grade class refers to a ...
  • Donations continue to pour in for NCS 'Brigada Eskwela' 2013

    NAVAL, Biliran, May 23 (PIA) -- Donations continue to pour in for the Naval Central School (NCS) Brigada Eskwela 2013 since it started Monday, May 20. In an interview, Herman Donato, school principal, said as of Thursday, May 23, two days before the week-long Brigada Eskwela ends, NCS has received more donations in kind from donors, parents and private organizations. “The donations, especially construction materials, will be used for minor repairs and maintenance of school buildings and othe...
  • LGU Panabo supports Brigada Eskwela

    PANABO CITY, Davao del Norte, May 23 (PIA) -- In order to encourage the public to share their time, strength and resources in kind, the Local Government of Panabo has joined the 2013 Institutionalized National Schools Maintenance Week also known “Brigada Skwela” with a theme “Isang Dekada ng Bayanihan sa Paraalan” which ran from May 20-25, 2013. In a Memorandum issued by the City Administrator that all Department Heads, upon their discretion, to allow the participation of Job Orders to...
  • ‘Balik-tambay’ gets help from DOLE

    CITY OF BALANGA, Bataan, May 23 (PIA) -- A former overseas Filipino worker who professed that he became a “balik-tambay” is now sending his children to school with the help of a small vending business, thanks to the NegoKart of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Jerome Dabu from Dinalupihan town is one of the 150 new beneficiaries of various livelihood projects under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program in Bataan who expressed gratitude during the recent Labor Day Celebration ...
  • Biliran DepEd activates 'Oplan Balik Eskwela'

    NAVAL, Biliran, May 23 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) division of Biliran will activate "Oplan Balik Eskwela" (OBE) for School Year 2013-2014 on May 27. Dr. Pedro Escobarte, schools division superintendent of Biliran, said in a letter-invitation to PIA Biliran that OBE is an activity conducted by DepEd to ensure the smooth opening of classes at the start of the school year. “The OBE primarily aims to address the problems commonly encountered by schools during this period to ens...
  • Brigada Eskwela hopes for more volunteers this year

    CEBU CITY, May 23 (PIA) -- Department of Education-7 officials remain positive there will be more volunteers for the remaining days of Brigada Eskwela. In the recent Kapihan sa PIA-Cebu, DepEd-7 Regional Director Dr. Carmelita Dulangon said they remain hopeful that like in the past years, volunteers for Brigada Eskwela will increase. According to Director Dulangon, there is a good turn-out of volunteers in majority of the schools under the 19 schools divisions of Central Visayas. “Speciall...
  • Nueva Vizcaya jobs fair benefits 116 applicants

    BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, May 23 (PIA) -- At least 116 job applicants in this province will be hired by various employment agencies as a result of the jobs fair conducted on May 16-17 at the Provincial Capitol grounds here. The jobs fair, which was sponsored by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in partnership with the provincial government, was participated by 24 overseas and local agencies and attended by some 320 applicants. Of the 320 applicants, 58 were hired on the spot and 5...
  • DOLE finds evident labor mismatch in Eastern Visayas

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 23 (PIA) -- The recent jobs fair held last Labor Day by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Eastern Visayas reflected a persistent labor mismatch in the region. Exequil Sarcauga, DOLE regional director, said out of 1,075 jobs offered in the region, only 165 applicants found employment. He said majority of the 893 applicants fell behind in the qualification requirements despite being college graduates. He added that 444 jobseekers were considered for interv...
  • DavNor's Brigada Eskwela assures smooth opening of classes

    TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, May 22 -- The success of the Brigada Eskwela will guarantee the smooth and orderly opening of the regular classes on June 3, a local DepEd official here said. Davao del Norte Division Superintendent Josephine Fadul said she is confident the beginning of the School Year 2013-2014 will go on quietly, since classes will no longer be hampered by minor repairs and clean ups in schools. “Regular classes starts on June 3 and cleaning and repair of school facilities ar...
  • Health workers urged to intervene with the severe malnutrition cases in Kalinga

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 22 (PIA) – Kalinga Health workers are urged to come up with necessary interventions to address the severe malnutrition cases in this province. The severe malnutrition cases were known upon the release of the 2012 Provincial Nutritional Status Report. The report shows that during the conduct of the Operation Timbang (OPT) in Kalinga, from the 2,188 pre-school children found to be underweight, 301 were severely underweight. Rose Alunday of the Provincial Health Office...
  • Kalinga prepares for Nutrition Month

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 22 (PIA) -- Members of the Provincial Nutrition Council (PNC) are now preparing for the observance of the 2013 Nutrition Month in July with the theme, “Gutom at Malnutrisyon, Sama-sama Nating Wakasan.” Provincial Nutritionist Frances Sebastian said that this year’s theme aims to raise the public’s awareness on the need for more action in addressing hunger in the country towards the achievement of the country’s commitment to the United Nations Millennium Deve...
  • DENR 8 prepares employees for Rationalization Plan

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 22 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural resources (DENR) 8 is conducting review classes for its employees who will be taking the Civil Service Examinations in preparation for the implementation of Executive Order 366 or the Rationalization Plan. Purificacion S. Daloos, DENR 8 chief information officer, said some 180 employees who are mostly holding contractual and casual positions at their office attend the review classes for the Civil Service Profession...
  • DavNor public HS grad wins int’l science tilt

    DAVAO DEL NORTE, May 22 (PIA) -- Panabo National High School graduate Judel Jay A. Tabsing brought home honor as the 4th Grand Prize Winner in the Plant Science Category during the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) held in Phoenix Convention Center, Arizona U.S.A. from May 12 to May 17. Tabsing was the only one among the Filipino contingent to the ISEF 2013, who won a prize during the event organized by Intel International. Other winners were from New York (1st prize), Hawaii ...
  • DENR 8 employs 19 students for summer jobs

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 22 (PIA) -- Nineteen students are now employed at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 8 under its Summer Internship Program (SIP) which started from April 15, 2013 and will end on May 31, 2013. Purificacion S. Daloos, DENR 8 chief information officer, said the students who came from different schools in Eastern Visayas are assigned to several divisions in their office whose functions are relevant to their courses. Daloos said the students receiv...
  • 2,000 students benefit from Quezon SPES program

    LUCENA CITY, Quezon, May 22 (PIA) -- About 2,000 high school and college students have been temporarily employed as office clerks and student assistants in the different municipalities and schools this summer through the special program for employment of students (SPES). Evelyn Roquino of the provincial office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said SPES is a yearly program of DOLE in partnership with the local government units (LGUs). “The program aims to train and assist poor...
  • Tubbataha Youth Ambassadors named

    PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan, May 22 (PIA) -- In celebration of Tubbataha's 25th year as a marine protected area, the Tubbataha Management Office recently named its Tubbataha Youth Ambassadors who will take the lead in championing the marine park’s awareness and conservation in its schools. The Tubbataha Youth Ambassadors are Jennifer Salonga, 20, a BS Fisheries student of Western Philippine University; Jherson Pugay, 26 a Petroleum Engineering student of PSU; and, June Lee Miñoza, 25, a ...
  • BRAC Philippines provides assistance to differently able learner in Maguindanao

    COTABATO CITY, May 22 (PIA) -- Alibay M. Katua, a seven year-old student from Barangay Upper Silling, Buluan, Maguindanao suffers from a congenital mobility impairment. She was born with no legs but despite of her condition, she is determined to attend school every day. Her ailment did not hinder her willingness to learn. Non-government Organization BRAC (formerly Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee) through its local partner, Kapagawida Development Services Association, Inc. (KDSAI) prov...
  • DOLE Southern Leyte initiates labor education to establishment owners

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, May 22 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) provincial office will hold a series of labor education fora to hundreds of establishment owners and managers across the province this month. DOLE Provincial Head Norma Valuis said DOLE will hold an Employees Forum in three municipalities strategically located throughout the province: Sogod, Maasin City and Hinunangan on May 16, 22 and 24, respectively. Valuis said neighboring municipalities in the area...
  • DPWH gives all-out support to Oplan Balik Eskwela

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 22 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Eastern Visayas is fast-tracking the implementation of projects in the region to ensure an orderly and safe opening of classes on June 3. DPWH Region 8 Director Rolando Asis said he has instructed all district engineers in Eastern Visayas to repair all potholes, clear obstructions and repaint all pedestrian crossings in front of schools along national roads. He also ordered the removal of unsafe billboa...
  • DepEd Asec Laguda joins Brigada Eskwela in Siquijor

    SIQUIJOR, May 21 (PIA) -- As the new school year is about to start, all public elementary and secondary schools in Siquijor province are getting ready with the Brigada Eskwela that started on May 20 with Department of Education (DepEd) Assistant Secretary Rey Laguda joining the activities. "Brigada Eskwela is not just about getting the community people, it’s also a way of informing them that we are about to start another school year," said Asec. Laguda, in an interview with the Philippine In...
  • 4ID Troopers join Brigada Eskwela 2013

    CAMP EVANGALISTA, CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY , May 22 -- The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division joins nationwide “Brigada Eskwela 2013” of the Department of Education within its area of responsibility. Also known as the National Schools Maintenance Week, this activity is an annual school maintenance program by the Department of Education scheduled from May 20 to 25, 2013. Brigada Eskwela aims to prepare schools for the opening of classes this June 10. In this program, DepEd is calling upon ...
  • TESDA trains Negrense women for gender responsive entrepreneurship

    NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, May 22 (PIA6) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) partnered with several organizations for the training of women to be gender responsive entrepreneurs. The S3TAR Program or the Sar-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources Program spearheaded by Tesda and Coca-Cola Philippines provided 1,000 women from the cities of Bacolod, Bago and Talisay the basic entrepreneurship and gender sensitivity training for 12-weeks. Rose, one of the 1,0...
  • Cagayan town embraces Skills Registry System

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, May 22 (PIA)-- To help address job-skills mismatch, the municipality of Sta. Praxedes, a 5th class town in the province of Cagayan, will implement the Skills Registry System (SRS). This year, the Department of Labor and Employment- Region 2 (DOLE 2) is already implementing the 4th wave of the system covering 16 municipalities throughout the region. “We support this program of the DOLE to help curb unemployment,” Sta. Praxedes Municipal Mayor, Esterlina Aguinaldo-Ramos said...
  • DOH holds convention on the attainment of Millennium Development Goal 6 in Central Luzon

    CLARK FREEPORT, May 22 (PIA) -- Department of Health (DOH) Region 3 conducted this week a convention that focuses on the attainment of United Nations Millennium Development Goal # 6 (MDG 6) or combating HIV/AIDS, Malaria, Tuberculosis and other infectious diseases. The three-day affair was meant to be the starting point in scaling up efforts against these diseases for the betterment of health situations in Central Luzon. “We have been implementing several programs for the attainment of MDG ...
  • DSWD XI presents results of child protection rapid assessment

    DAVAO CITY, May 21 (PIA) -- Taking the lead of the Child Protection Working Group (CPWG), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) XI recently presented results of the Child Protection Rapid Assessment (CIPRA) conducted in selected municipalities and provinces affected by Typhoon Pablo. In the opening ceremony before the presentation proper, Director Priscilla N. Razon explained that the assessment aimed to help gauge the impact of Typhoon Pablo especially on children, ide...
  • DepEd trains Grade 8 teachers in English and Araling Panlipunan for K to 12

    LEGAZPI CITY, May 21 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) in Bicol recently led the Regional Mass Training for Grade 8 teachers in the fields of English and Araling Panlipunan under the K to 12 program in this city. At least 265 teachers from public schools in the province of Masbate, city schools divisions of Masbate City and Tabaco City Division were among the participants of the first of a series of mass trainings. The 148 participants trained in the English subject while 117 in A...
  • Brigada Eskwela unites Ilocos Sur community

    VIGAN CITY, May 21 (PIA) -- Community folks trooped to various schools in the province amidst drizzles yesterday for the annual Brigada Eskuwela week. Alberto Muyot, the legal affairs undersecretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), said through local media that he was pleased with the turnout of students, parents, guardians, barangay officials, non-government organization members, officials of local government units despite the heavy rains. He urged residents and various sectors to wor...
  • Philhealth expands primary care benefit benefit package to DepEd employees

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 21 (PIA) -- The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) expands its primary care benefit 1 (PCB1) package to employees of the Department of Education (DepEd) and their dependents under its pilot test. Jean Baawa of Philhealth Kalinga Field Office said they have coordinated with DepEd Schools Division Superintendent Carolyn Verano on Philhealth Circular No. 0010 s. 2013 regarding the inclusion of their department under PCB1 package and that requires its tea...
  • Informal workers adopt DOLE’s family welfare program

    KAWIT, Cavite, May 21 (PIA) -- Members of the federation of tricycle drivers association, considered as informal workers, have adopted the Family Welfare Program (FWP) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The program focuses on family health. Cavite senior labor employment officer Edwin T. Hernandez said this is the first in Calabarzon, an initiative aimed at helping workers in the informal sector to have access on health services. Prior to this, the federation members were orien...
  • Brigada Eskwela begins in La Union

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, May 21 (PIA) – This year’s “Brigada Eskwela 2013” started yesterday in the different public schools in the City of San Fernando. The Department of Education-City Division here said the program was implemented in 26 elementary schools and five high schools. Aprillyn Carbonell, DepEd city division accountant, said participating groups included the Naval Forces Northern Luzon, Coast Guard District of North Western Luzon-San Fernando Station, the La Union police, local ...
  • DOLE urges private companies to implement apprenticeship/learners program

    QUEZON CITY, May 21 (PIA)-- The Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) urged private companies to avail themselves of the apprenticeship and 'learnership' programs under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s (TESDA) Kasanayan at Hanapbuhay (KASH) Program. TESDA is one of the attached agencies of DOLE that is mandated to provide skill development of the labor, local government units and technical-vocational institutions of the country's human resources. In a statement,...
  • MultiDrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB), a growing public health concern - DOH

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 21 (PIA) - The Department of Health (DOH) region 10, City Health Office and local government unit here are one in doing massive information dissemination on a growing public health concern, the MultiDrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB). Dr. Arlene Esling of German Doctors Hospital explained that normal (early stage) tuberculosis (TB) transforms or develops into a MultiDrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) when TB patients fail to get correct treatment or not get c...
  • Pineda wants 40,000 farmers in Pampanga learn diversified farming

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, May 21 – Governor Lilia Pineda has instructed the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) to assist some 40,000 Kapampangan farmers in developing rice planting techniques through effective diversified farming. With this, some 50 farmers in the province were initially trained on integrated crops management system for the promotion of diversified farming that enhances the productivity of farm lands. Farmer-trainees received farm tools, laminated sacks, sprayers, vegetab...
  • 95% of persons with HIV/AIDS in region 10 are male – DOH

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 21 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) region 10 and the City Health Office here in their advocacy for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) awareness and prevention mentioned that these days, it is not anymore the females that acquire such virus predominantly but the male. Dr. David A. Mendoza, DOH regional epidemiologist said that this year, 95% of the recorded cases of such infection are dominated by males. Further, he ...
  • CSC reminds government workers in CL on prohibition of liquor consumption in state-owned offices

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 21 (PIA) -- Civil Service Commission (CSC) reminded government workers in Central Luzon on the prohibition on the consumption of alcoholic beverages in state-owned offices. CSC OIC Regional Director Fernando Porio said, “pursuant to CSC Resolution No. 1100039, the consumption of alcoholic beverages such as, but not limited to, malt, wine, and intoxicating liquor in workplace among government officials and employees during office hours is prohibited.” H...
  • DepEd all set for 'Brigada Eskwela' SY 2013-2014

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 21 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) in Eastern Visayas is set to launch “Brigada Eskwela” for School Year 2013-2014 on May 20-25. Rebecca Ragrag, DepEd assistant regional director, said “Brigada Eskwela,” also known as National Schools Maintenance Week, is a school maintenance program enjoining all education stakeholders to contribute their time, effort and resources in ensuring that public school facilities are ready for the upcoming school openin...
  • Western Visayas youth rehab center is model center

    ILOILO CITY, May 21 (PIA) -- The Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-6) in Western Visayas has been recognized as laboratory center for other RRCYs all over the country. Paul Eclar, Psychologist II of the RRCY-DSWD-6, said that the RRCY in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras has the most ideal set-up of a residential facility for children in conflict with the law (CICL) ages 15 years old and below 18, as based from the assessment of th...
  • Preparations for Balik Eskwela 2013 underway in Eastern Visayas

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 21 (PIA) – Preparations for the Balik Eskwela 2013, an annual activity to ensure that all concerns about school opening is addressed, is now ongoing in Eastern Visayas. Department of Education Regional Director Luisa Bautista-Yu said that her agency has already conducted a convergence meeting with its partner agencies last week in order to ensure an orderly and safe opening of classes in June. Director Yu underscored the vital role of each partner agency not only du...
  • Brigada Eskwela kicks off at West City Elem School-Dumaguete

    Negros Oriental, May 21 (PIA) -- The Brigada Eswela program kicked off yesterday at West City Elementary School with the signing of Pledge of Commitment by parents, student-volunteers, community members and teachers. Brigada Eskwela is a yearly activity of the DepEd through joint effort of parents, teachers, students and community members in cleaning school surroundings and classrooms for the school opening in June. Clean-up drives were mostly done in school surroundings. Refurbishing schools...
  • TESDA Bicol opens 427 scholarship slots for TWSP, TMTP

    LEGAZPI CITY, May 20 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Bicol has opened 427 scholarship slots for new batches of scholars in the province Albay this year for its Training for Works and Scholarship Program (TWSP). Aileen Lozada, TESDA technical education and skills development specialist, said the program communes with the agency’s mandate to provide accessible and relevant high quality technical vocational education and training especially to the you...
  • DOH-10 official bats for healthy lifestyle, awareness in fight against HIV-AIDS

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 20 (PIA) -- A healthy lifestyle and adequate knowledge of Human Immune Deficiency Virus infection / Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV / AIDS) are essential in the fight against the deadly disease, an official of the Department of Health said. “HIV-AIDS is incurable and fatal but 100 percent preventable. A person with HIV is infected for life and you cannot tell who is infected,” Dr. Evelyn Magsayo, DOH 10 HIV-AIDS program manager said. “Getting HIV is a de...
  • Antique kicks off Brigada Eskwela

    SAN JOSE, Antique,May 20 (PIA) -- The School Maintenance Week also dubbed Brigada Eskwela kicked off on Monday May 20 to 24, 2013 per DepEd Memorandum Circular No. 40 series of 2013 issued by Secretary Armin Luistro. Fabian Niebre, District Supervisor of San Jose and at the same time Brigada Eskwela Coordinator said the 22 school districts in the province are set to join this nationwide undertaking in getting the school ready for opening on June 3. With the theme “Brigada Eskwela: Isang ...
  • Week-long Brigada-Eskwela kicks off in Davao City

    DAVAO CITY, May 20 (PIA) -- The Brigada Eskwela (School Brigade) clean up drive kicked off Monday in all schools of the city with parents, students and teachers helping one another to prepare the classrooms, buildings and surroundings for the opening of classes on June 3, 2013. Emerita Mapula, principal of the Cesario Villa-Abrille Elementary School at Barangay 76-A lauded the support of the parents in the clean up activity. She also urged other stakeholders in the community to participate. M...
  • DepEd launches Brigada Eskwela 2013

    PASAY CITY -- The Department of Education (DepEd) led by Secretary Armin Luistro launched the 2013 National Schools Maintenance Week or Brigada Eskwela at the Philippine School for the Deaf. Scheduled on May 20-25, this year’s Brigada, which is on its tenth year, carries the theme “Isang Dekada ng Bayanihan sa Paaralan.” “[Ang Brigada] ang pinakamahabang pagpapakita ng people power sa Pilipinas,” [The Brigada is the longest manifestation of people power in the Philippines] Luistro ...
  • PNP assures safety in opening of classes, joins Brigada Eskwela

    KORONADAL CITY, May 20 (PIA) -- After the success of its operations during the recently concluded national and local elections, Soccsksargen Region’s police force is all set to make sure that the opening of classes in June will also be secure and orderly. PCSupt. Charles Calima Jr., acting regional director of the Police Regional Office said they have already coordinated with the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, local government units...
  • Brigada Eskwela kicks off today in Ifugao

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, May 20 (PIA) -- Teachers, parents, volunteers and other stakeholders here trooped to the Lagawe Central School today to help spruce up the campuses as part of the kick off activity of the Brigada Eskwela 2013 of the Department of Education. The Brigada seeks to prepare the school and classrooms for the opening of classes in June. Education Supervisor Marilou Takinan, in charge of the said program, said that Brigada Eskwela 2013 started with a parade around the town at 8 a.m. ...
  • Institutions in CL share best practices in Career Guidance

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 20 (PIA) -- A number of institutions in Central Luzon has shared their best practices in guiding high school students towards the path to take after graduation. Representatives from Bulacan Provincial Public Employment Service Office (PESO), University of the Assumption (UA), and Pampanga High School (PHS) gave tips to over 250 guidance counselors and coordinators from public and private high schools in Central Luzon that graced the inaugural Regional Career ...
  • 10 Kalahi projects in Pasil completed under cycle 1

    PASIL, Kalinga, May 20 (PIA) -- Ten projects implemented in this municipality under cycle 1 of the Kalahi-CIDSS (Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Service) were completed. Joel Cubit of the Kalahi-CIDSS said the success of their implementation is attributed to the generic ‘badang’ culture of the iKalingas. He said these projects were jointly implemented by the local government unit, the social welfare and development provincial and national offices, and the beneficiary co...
  • DepEd names 19 Eastern Visayas schools for K to 12 modeling

    GOVERNMENT CENTER, Palo, Leyte, May 20 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) in Eastern Visayas has identified 19 public schools here for K to 12 modeling. DepEd Region 8 Director Luisa Bautista-Yu said this is in line with the full implementation of the K to 12 Program among government schools three years from now. Yu said the identified schools have already conducted mapping activities as to how many students will enroll. Those who would enroll are those who graduated this school yea...
  • Philippine’s first Kalahi-CIDSS water purifying project to open in Sultan Kudarat

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 20 (PIA) -- Residents in a remote village in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat will soon have its source of purified water, courtesy of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS). Gemma Rivera, assistant regional director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 12, revealed that the project is the first community-owned water purifying station project in the co...
  • News Feature: An elder’s gift for the next generation through Kalahi-CIDSS

    CALAMBA, Misamis Occidental, May 20 (PIA) -- Ana Curita Pasa, 77, a resident of Brgy. Don Bernardino A. Neri, Calamba, Misamis Occidental is a Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan- Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Service (Kalahi-CIDSS) volunteer and member of the Monitoring and Inspection Team (MIT). This is her story, her experience in volunteering for Kalahi-CIDSS. “Tiguwang nako, dili nako makapakinabang niini nga proyekto. Apan akong mga anak ug akong mga apo maoy makabinipisyo, m...
  • DOLE, business group calls on CL guidance counselors to encourage students to take courses needed by industries

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 20 (PIA) -- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) called on guidance counselors and coordinators in Central Luzon to encourage high school students to take college and vocational courses that are needed by industries. In a lecture during the inaugural Regional Career Guidance Advocacy Congress, DOLE Central Luzon Employment and Welfare chief Nely Punzalan said that “the in-demand jobs in the region...
  • Number of 4Ps beneficiaries in Region 12 continue to rise

    GENERAL SANTOS CITY, May 20 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said the beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) for the entire region 12 have rocketed to 217,526 as of April this year. DSWD-12 regional information officer Dennis Domingo II, the implementation of the program, which is being done by set has been smooth sailing. He said last year the beneficiaries were more than 190,000. The whole Region 12 is divided into six sets and the DS...
  • NegOcc senior citizens get stipend

    NEGROS OCC., May 20 (PIA)—More than a thousand senior citizens in Negros Occidental will receive their monthly pension of P500 with the release of P27.1 million for the province, a press release from the DSWD6 said. Other provinces in the region also received funds for the social pension program of their senior citizens, to wit: Aklan, P14.1 million; Antique, P15.7 million; Capiz, P13.5 million; Guimaras, P4.4 million and Iloilo, P44.3 million. The Social Pension for indigent senior citize...
  • DOLE holds first Career Guidance Advocacy Congress in Central Luzon

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 20 (PIA) -- Around 250 guidance counselors and coordinators from public and private high schools in Central Luzon recently graced the inaugural Regional Career Guidance Advocacy Congress of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Anchored on the theme “Follow the Guide. Tag a Career. Like the Future”, the event was done in partnership with the Central Luzon Regional Career Guidance Network (CL-RCGN) and featured lectures and messages of officials from ...
  • Brigada Eskwela heralds start of school year in June

    GOVERNMENT CENTER, Palo, Leyte, May 19 (PIA) -- The Oplan Brigada Eskwela on May 20 to 24 heralds the start of the new school year in June. DepEd Region 8 Director Luisa Bautista Yu said the officials and personnel from the Department of Education in Eastern Visayas will lead the National Maintenance Week on May 20-24, better known to many as Brigada Eskwela with a kick off activity at the Tolosa Central School on Monday, May 20. A kick-off activity is simultaneously held in all the DepEd di...
  • HIV/AIDS awareness campaign set for Antique's youth

    SAN JOSE, Antique, May 17 (PIA) -- Youth leaders from San Jose town will attend a two-day awareness campaign on HIV/AIDS or Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired immunodeficiency Syndrome on May 18-19. “Some 70 youth leaders in San Jose will attend this activity, and we hope that the event will help increase their level of awareness about HIV and AIDS,” said Maria Corazon Pindol, Health and Nutrition Facilitator of the Palanan-awon Pangkauswagan Sang Antique (PPSA). Pindol said the a...
  • OCD-4A orients PWDs on disaster risk reduction management and climate change

    CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, May 17 (PIA) -- The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) IV-A in partnership with Tahanan na Walang Hagdanan Inc., recently conducted a two-day orientation on disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) and climate change adaptation (CCA) for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Vicente F. Tomazar, OCD IV-A regional director and chair of regional DRRMC describe the activity as a community-based training on the inclusion of disability element in all the phases of DRRM and CCA. T...
  • PHO advocates healthy lifestyle to fight lifestyle diseases

    KALIBO, Aklan, May 17 (PIA6) -- Aklan folks need to adopt a healthy lifestyle to keep lifestyle diseases from claiming more lives in the province. These lifestyle diseases--among the top ten causes of mortality in Aklan--include heart failure, cancer, hypertension, myocardial infarction, diabetes mellitus, and renal failure, Dr. Leslie Anne Luces, provincial health officer, said during the Kalusugang Pangkalahatan/Community Health Team (KP-CHT) Multisectoral Task Force Meeting. She said a ...
  • Kalinga launches Brigada Eskwela

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 17 (PIA) -- Kalinga Schools Division launched today the “Brigada Eskwela” for School Year 2013-2014 in the province. The activity was opened with 6 a.m. motorcade from the Provincial Library Hub followed by a program at the Kalinga National High School grounds for the launching ceremony. As show of support, groups of parents, local officials, civic organizations and other stakeholders joined in the launching. Schools Division Superintendent Carolyne Verano e...
  • DOST-TAPI 2013 RICE accepts entries

    ILOILO CITY, May 17 (PIA) -- The 2013 Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE) is now open to entries from local inventors and researchers, according to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) regional office here. The local researches and inventions in the field of science will be showcased and recognized during the RICE event slated September 2-6 here. The DOST6 expects many research and invention enthusiasts to show their wares and compete for honors of b...
  • 60,000 new teacher items and teacher redeployment allowance OK’d

    PASIG CITY, May 17 -- The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved over 60,000 new teaching positions even as it gave the green light to provide funding for teachers being redeployed from schools with excess teacher items to areas with shortages. DBM has made available 61, 510 new teacher items for fiscal year 2013 as the Department of Education (DepEd) keeps pace with demand for teachers on account of increasing enrolment in public elementary and secondary schools nationwide. ...
  • OBE Task Force ready to address enrollment, school opening woes

    ILOILO CITY, May 17 (PIA6) -- The Operation Balik Eskwela (OBE) Task Force of the regional office of the Department of Education in Western Visayas here is ready to assist parents, guardians and other stakeholders if they have issues and concerns during the enrollment period and school opening. DepEd 6 Resource Mobilization Special Program and Project Division Chief Dr. Eden Deriada said upon instruction of Director Mildred Garay the OBE Task Force was formed to see to it that the opening of cl...
  • Brigada Eskwela starts after election in Samar

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, May 17 (PIA) -- While many are still waiting for the result on who will be proclaimed as governor in the province, and who will be the next set of senators in the country, some parents and teachers started the clean-up drive and repairs in the rooms that were used during the election in Samar. Catbalogan City Division Superintendent Editha De Veyra said that all is set for the week-long school maintenance program “Brigada Eskwela” for School Year 2013-2014. Brigad...
  • Summer employment program to benefit poor students

    TAGUM CITY, May 17 (PIA) -- Grantees of the Special Program for Students (SPES) in the province are happy the provincial government has finally deployed them to their respective assigned offices. The province facilitated the employment contract of the first batch of SPES with 140 recipients after the lapse of the election ban, which froze the implementation of the program as Comelec prohibited the release, disbursement or expenditure of public funds, including the hiring of employees, from Mar...
  • Ifugao town receives livelihood assistance from DOLE

    ALFONSO LISTA, Ifugao, May 16 (PIA) - - The local government here has received a livelihood assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in the province. A check worth P204,000 was turned over to Mayor Glenn Prudenciano in a simple ceremony attended by beneficiaries and other local officials. The DOLE said the said amount will be used for the procurement of fishing gears and marketing transport facility for the Namnama Fisher Folks Association (NFFA). The amount was request...
  • DepEd to prioritize 1,000 TP graduates hiring

    PASIG CITY, May 16 -- Department of Education (DepEd) signed a memorandum of agreement with Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) that will prioritize the hiring of 1,000 Teachers Program (1000 TP) graduates in the public schools. The 1000 TP is a flagship scholarship program of PBEd that seeks to uplift the image and quality of the teaching profession by attracting the best and the brightest to joining the teaching ranks. Promising high school graduates, who are part of the top ten percen...
  • 4Ps beneficiaries attend farmers training program

    NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, May 16 (PIA6) -- Fifty beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program in Murcia, this province, availed themselves of the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) farmers training program of the SM Foundation Inc. Municipal Link Grace Barsabal said the Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries were part of the 124 farmers and agriculture students who underwent a three-month training on farming at the Lux Mundi Farm School in Hacienda Binitin in Murcia since January. “The Kabalikat sa Kab...
  • DOH, city health office to conduct HIV surveillance in Baguio

    BAGUIO CITY, May 16 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH-CAR) and partner agencies are preparing for the conduct of an Integrated HIV Behavioural and Serologic Surveillance System (IHBSS) in the city. The IHBSS aims to provide more information about the spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in the country. This strategy determines the extent of the epidemic and the virus` medium of dispersal in cities and rural areas. It also caters to HIV prevention, planning, and policy evaluatio...
  • DSWD 4A, CBAP partners in the conduct of family development sessions for Pantawid beneficiaries

    TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, May 16 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Regional Office IV-A recently inked partnership with Community Builders, Advancers & Partners (CBAP)-Cavite Ministries, Inc. in the conduct of family development sessions (FDS) for Pantawid beneficiaries in the province. Under the memorandum of agreement (MOA), the CBAP-Cavite will collaborate with the DSWD in its “Bantay, Tulay, Kaagapay, Gabay” framework. The CBAP-Cavite will focus on be...
  • DOLE conducts training on career employment, coaching for guidance counselors

    QUEZON CITY, May 16 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor & Employment-National Capital Region (DOLE-NCR) field office in the Northern Metro Manila has conducted a seminar-workshop on career employment coaching for guidance counselors. The activity was participated by guidance counsellors and public employment service officers (PESO) from cities of Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela. During the workshop held at the Bulwagang Katipunan of the Caloocan City Hall, a review and thorough discussi...
  • DOST 10 scholars now in summer classes

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 15 (PIA) -- Incoming DOST scholars from Region 10 are undergoing summer classes beginning May 6 up to June 1. The 30-day program is being held at Mindanao University of Science and Technology this city and at the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City. This Summer Orientation and Enrichment Program (SOEP) is designed to increase the knowledge and skills of DOST scholars in English, Mathematics and Physics. It also aims to prepare them in...
  • 2013 Brigada Eskwela set May 20-24

    DIPOLOG CITY, May 15 (PIA) -- All is set for this year’s “Brigada Eskwela” in Zamboanga del Norte. This was declared by Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Lourma Poculan of the Zamboanga del Norte schools division in an interview yesterday. Poculan said the weeklong Brigada Eskwela (school preparation activity) will be capped by a search for outstanding Brigada Eskwela implementers among public elementary and secondary schools. Education Supervisor Arcelita Zamoras, on the other ...
  • USAID, DOH partnership to improve family health

    MANILA, May 15 (PIA) -- The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) will launch a Bilateral Health Portfolio on Thursday, May 16 at the Grand Ballroom of the Pan Pacific Hotel in Manila. The partnership aims to help the Philippine Government in making a significant positive impact on family health by 2017. During the launch, a gallery exhibit will also be opened featuring the DOH-USAID Health Portfolio (2013-2017) with DOH...
  • Workers train on safety in construction of infra under CDD project

    LEGAZPI CITY, May 15 (PIA) -- Laborers who will work for the implementation of projects under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) project trained on construction safety last May 6-10, 2013 in Sto. Domingo, Albay The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office here has partnered with Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Bicol for a 40-hour training educating the supervisors on preventive measur...
  • DepEd assures cash cards are free of charge

    PASIG CITY, May 15 -- The Department of Education (DepEd) is assuring teachers that their honoraria for services rendered as members of the Board of Election Inspectors (BEI) for the elections may already be withdrawn through their Landbank ATMs or through cash cards for those with no payroll accounts, this amid reports that a P200 registration fee is being charged for the cards. “We have been assured by COMELEC that Landbank has not required a registration fee for the cash cards. Our personn...
  • DTI opens Diskwento Caravan in Tacloban

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 15 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry Leyte Provincial Office is set to hold the 6th Diskwento Caravan: Balik Eskuwela Edition 2013 on May 15 to 17. DTI Leyte Director Desiderio Belas, Jr. said the Diskwento Caravan will be conducted at the DTI Leyte Office grounds at Real St., Fatima Village, Tacloban City. “Discounted prices will be given to school and office supplies, uniforms and school bags, basic necessities and prime commodities during the Diskwen...
  • DSWD-7’s partners with Julie’s Bakeshop

    CEBU CITY, May 9 (PIA) -- The Regional Rehabilitation Centre for Youth (RRCY) here has partnered with Julie’s Bakeshop to launch a feeding program in the municipality of Argao. RRCY is a project spearheaded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office in Region 7. RRCY head Bibiana Horvath during the recent launching welcomed their partnership with Julie's Bakeshop. "We welcome our partnership with Julie’s Bakeshop and we are happy that they have chosen RRCY ...
  • DOST training op for Computer Numerical Control Machinists

    CEBU CITY, May 15 (PIA) -- Demand for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machinists in the job market is rising these days, according to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). In the Philippines, only a few CNC machinists are trained as most of those who have been trained have left the country for good, noted DOST. Brain drain has become a bigger problem in the metals and engineering industry due to steadfast advancements and innovations in modern technology. To address the negative...
  • 54 PWDs graduate in Vocational Training Center

    CEBU CITY, May 15 (PIA) -- Fifty four (54) persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Visayas and Mindanao have received their diplomas for completing training at the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center 11 (AVRC) in Labangon, Cebu City. The rites were held during the school's 35th Graduation Exercises. Of these number, 24 finished Therapeutic Massage, 1 in Consumer Electronics, 13 in Computer Technology, 2 in Commercial Arts and Crafts, 5 in Basic Cosmetology, 10 in Commercial Cooking, 2 in Ba...
  • Depicting the life and works of the first Four-star General of Mindanao

    Who would think that an ordinary man from a very simple family would become surprisingly extraordinary and an inspiration to the many? He is the complete epitome of a person who believes in the saying, “it pays to work hard.” He got his guiding principle in life from Cicero, a Roman philosopher, who said: “The man who commands efficiently must have obeyed others in past, and the man who obeys dutifully is worthy of being someday a commander.” Childhood Alexander Badong Yano was t...
  • TESDA gets P20M worth of welding equipment from Mid East school

    QUEZON CITY, May 14 -- Skills training and assessment of Filipino welders get a big boost with the donation of P20 million worth of equipment to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) by the Middle East Industrial Training Institute (MEITI). The donation, consisting of 40 packages, was sent from the United Arab Emirates to the TESDA Regional Training Center in Buhisan, Tibungco in Davao City, a statement from Tesda said. Secretary Joel Villanueva, Tesda director gener...
  • PNoy approves new high school for Nueva Vizcaya

    BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, May 13(PIA) – President Benigno Simeon Aquino recently approved a bill creating a national high school in this province. The bill, proposed by incumbent Rep. Carlos Padilla (Lone District, Nueva Vizcaya) will benefit the youth especially those who come from poor families and indigenous communities in upland and remote barangays. House Bill 1210 as Republic Act 10482 or an “An Act Establishing a National High School in Barangay Dagupan in Quezon town called the ...
  • 'Pantawid' children now spend whole day in school

    ILOILO CITY, May 13 (PIA6) -- For some families in the town of Leganes, school days for their children meant “half day” only because the mothers would not send their children to school on empty stomachs. “My 12-year old daughter, Sheryl, fainted in school because she was hungry,” said 44-year-old Mayflor Jinon, of Sitio Paho, Napnod, Leganes in Iloilo. “I don’t want that to happen again to any of my children,” Mayflor said in dialect. For the children of Mayflor and some other m...
  • CCT beneficiaries assured of aid after “graduation” from 4Ps

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 13 (PIA) -- Help continues for the recipients of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) even as they “graduate” from the national government’s conditional cash grant, government officials here assured. From December this year until April 2014, cash grants for almost 14,000 households under the CCT program’s Set 1 and 2 in Soccsksargen Region would cease as they complete the five-year duration as b...
  • DepEd ready to reactivate Election Task Force Operation Center

    PASIG CITY, May 11 -- As millions of voters are expected to troop to polling places throughout the country for the 2013 midterm elections on May 13, the Department of Education readies its Election Task Force (ETF) Operation Center to assist teachers in fulfilling their duties on election day. “As we deploy our teachers to this special duty, DepEd joins the rest of the nation in making this political exercise an honest, orderly, and peaceful one. This operation center is one contribution the ...
  • Cordillera teachers to undergo training on K to 12 curriculum for grades 2 and 8

    BAGUIO CITY, May 10 (PIA) - - For the effective implementation of the Kindergarten to Grade 12 or K to 12 program, Cordillera teachers are set to undergo training this May on the Department of Education’s (DepEd) new curriculum for grades 2 and 8. DepEd Regional Director Ellen Donato disclosed that the new curriculum for grades 2 and 8 will be implemented this school year 2013 – 2014 following the implementation of the new curriculum for grades 1 and grade 7 last school year. To re-too...
  • 17 Scholars of TESDA-Isuzu completes 2-year NC1V Course

    TACLOBAN City, Leyte, May 10 (PIA) -- The Technical Schools and Development Authority (TESDA) in Eastern Visayas recognized 17 scholars during their graduation ceremony held recently at the TESDA Automechanic Training Centre in Abucay, Tacloban City. TESDA initiated the scholarship program headed by Acting Regional Director Cleta M. Omega in partnership with World Vision and Isuzu Motors Limited of Japan led by Senior Counselor Yoshinori Ida. The ceremony’s guest speaker was Department of L...
  • Landbank, IRRI launch scholarship program for agriculture

    LOS BANOS, Laguna, May 10 (PIA) --The Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) have launched recently, a scholarship catering to dependents of small farmers and fisherfolks in agricultural communities. Dubbed “Gawad Pag-aaral Tungo sa Maunlad na Bayan” or “Gawad Patnubay,” the scholarship program offers grants to 50 beneficiaries, 28 for college degrees scholarship in agriculture and 22 for TESDA-certified technical-vocational educational p...
  • Gov’t provides funding to roll out Sahatra program for Bangsamoro

    DAVAO CITY, May 10 (PIA) -- The national government has allotted about P600 million to roll out various socio-economic projects for the Bangsamoro areas under the Sajahatra Bangsamoro Program, Secretary to the Cabinet Rene Almendras said. In a press conference at the Insular Hotel Davao, Almendras explained that the fund will initially be used to implement quick projects that would not need a thorough needs assessment. Almendras was in Davao City to meet the Joint Coordinating Committee me...
  • News Feature: Barangay Nutrition scholars: in the forefront against malnutrition

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, May 10 (PIA) -- Back in the 1970s, the government started pushing for a nutrition program that would boost children’s growth. The Philippine Nutrition Program was recognized in 1977 as an advocacy towards providing and meeting the nutrition and health services needed at the grassroots level. It was in this light that the Barangay Nutrition and Health Scholar, now called Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS) was born, according to the Food and Nutrition Research Instit...
  • Honor graduates given recognition

    NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, May 10 (PIA6) -- The provincial government gave recognition to Negros Occ. Scholarship Program (NOSP) scholars who graduated and received academic honors and distinctions from their respective colleges and universities, in a ceremony held at the Negros Occ. Multi-purpose Activity Center in Bacolod City, last April 30, a statement from the Capitol said. During the same ceremony, 128 NOSP grantees for the school year 2013-2014 were also welcomed. As has always been the tradit...
  • PPCRV invites citizens to volunteer for May polls

    VIRAC, Catanduanes, May 10 (PIA) -- Diocese of Virac Social Action Foundation, Inc. (DVSAFI) is inviting interested citizens to be volunteers of the National Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL). Also known as Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), the organization aims to assure the safe conduct of clean, honest, and credible elections. According to Rev. Fr. Laudemer Jose A. Gapaz, NAMFREL/PPCRV volunteers will establish Voter’s Assistance Desk in every polling center to e...
  • Over 300 cyclists campaign against human trafficking in Negros Oriental

    DUMAGUETE CITY, May 10 (PIA) -- Over 300 cyclists in Negros Oriental rode around Dumaguete City recently to promote the 1343 anti-trafficking hotline for emergency use, and stop modern slavery and traffic congestion. The "Freedom Ride" is part of the Stop Look Listen Campaign of Dakila, a civic group creatively inspiring involvement in social transformation, in partnership with the Manila Fixed Gear and WeFXD, a group of urban cyclists who has incorporated cycling in their lifestyle. Dakila h...
  • Supplementary Feeding Program continuously implemented in Region 10

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 10 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 10 (DSWD FO-10) continuously implements the second cycle of the supplementary feeding that started on October 2012 and has been on-going even during summer vacation to complete the 120 days feeding program. Out of the 108,306 day care children beneficiaries, 14.4% were malnourished upon the start of the feeding program. It is expected that there would be a significant decrease of malnutrition rat...
  • May is Cervical Awareness Month

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 8 (PIA) -- The Department of Health, pharmaceutical company Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD), and medical societies, kicked off the Cervical Awareness Month dubbed as “Babae, Mahalaga Ka!” at Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC). As part of the campaign, 58 DOH retained hospitals nationwide including Northern Mindanao Medical Center in Cagayan de Oro, will offer free Cervical Cancer screening to women aged 30-49 years old. “Gagawa po kami ng free screenings to DOH ...
  • DOH-NCR begins anti-dengue spraying ops in schools designated as polling precincts

    QUEZON CITY, May 9 (PIA) -- The Department of Health - National Capital Region (DOH-NCR)on Wednesday, has started their space spraying and misting operations in Metro Manila schools that are designated as polling centers by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). DOH-NCR Regional Director Eduardo C. Janairo said they target to finish the job in time for the coming May 13 elections and the opening of classes in June to protect voters, teachers and students who will be casting their votes and go...
  • 6 Bicolanos top April 2013 Midwifery Licensure Exam, CSPC top performing school

    LEGAZPI CITY, May 9 (PIA) -- Six Bicolanos notched places in the top 10 of the the Midwifery Licensure Exam held last month, according to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) regional office here. PRC Bicol announced that the topnotchers out of 2,323 examinees included three from Bicol University, one each from Polytechnic College of Nabua and Mabini College of Daet Camarines Norte. Benedict Rey Montas Serrano of Bicol University, garnered the first place with 89.70% rating, Ma. Jell...
  • Tabuk City RHU puts-up animal bite center

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 9 (PIA) – Tabuk City Rural Health Unit (RHU) 1 puts up an animal bite center to level-up its facilities under the program on control and prevention of rabies in the city. In line with the move, City Health Officer (CHO) Henrietta Bagayao and CHO Nurse Joy Alunday had their training on anti-rabies to prepare capable health staff to support the program. According to Bagayao, the intensified anti-rabies program of the city government, this year, is geared towards zero d...
  • PSWDO accepts scholarship application from children of rebel returnees

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 9 (PIA) – Children or the immediate beneficiaries of former rebel returnees are encouraged to avail of the scholarship under the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process – Commission on Higher Education (OPAPP-CHED). According to Eusebia Haddac, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) OPAPP-CHED Study Grant Program for Rebel Returnees program Point Person, the scholarships are available for enrollment to baccalaureate degrees offer...
  • Ifugao officials hail health volunteers for MDG accomplishments

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, May 9 (PIA)--Officials here commended health frontliners, volunteers, women’s group for their efforts in trying to meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDG). Speaking to about 200 participants coming from the municipalities of Kiangan, Lagawe, Hingon and Lamut, Arnel Bilibli of the Provincial Planning and Development Office said that their office noted a good performance of the province in trying to achieve MDG 3, 4, 5, and 6 namely Promoting gender equality and empowerin...
  • 6th batch of scholars graduate from Isuzu-funded TESDA auto mechanic training

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 9 (PIA) – Isuzu Motors Limited chairman Yoshinari Ida, his wife Mikiko and 17 other officers of the company are set to grace the graduation ceremony of the 6th batch of Isuzu scholars in the Isuzu funded TESDA Auto Mechanic Training Center in Tacloban City, Leyte, on May 9, 2013. TESDA Region 8 Director Cleta Omega informed that the graduating batch consists of 17 students who will be conferred industry-recognized auto technicians. Scholar Charlie B. Balano, 22 yea...
  • PWDs urged to avail of educational assistance

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 9 (PIA) -- The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) Kalinga is urging Persons with Disability (PWDs) in the province to avail of their educational assistance program. PWD Point Person Eusebia Haddac of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) said that the project is being funded under the PWD fund from the Internal Revenue Allotment of the province. The educational assistance project was conceptualized after finding out tha...
  • OWWA-ARMM gathers scholars for self-development

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 9 (PIA) -- Scholars of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OWWA-ARMM) from Maguindanao and Lanao Del Sur gathered together for a two-day conference at Awang Hillside Resort and Hotel, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. A total of 56 scholars participated the activity which began yesterday in various games designed to have them interact and work together for a common goal which focused on self-awareness, team ...
  • Ilocos Sur Pabahay project opens doors to occupants

    STO. DOMINGO, Ilocos Sur City, May 9 (PIA) -- The 20-unit Pabahay Project in the village of Napo, Santo Domingo is now ready for occupancy. Mayor Amado Tadena said seven months after its ground breaking and awarding ceremony in August last year, the houses come with a kitchen and toilet-bath and an option for owners to install partitions for private rooms. Each unit covers a floor area of 20 sq. meters. The local government partnered with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD...
  • 1,000 women complete entrepreneurship training

    NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, May 9 (PIA) -- About 1,000 women sari-sari store entrepreneurs in the cities of Bacolod, Bago and Talisay, this province will be awarded their Certificates of Training on Gender-Responsive Entrepreneurship by top officials of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) and Coca-Cola Philippines. TESDA Sec. Joel Villanueva and Atty. Adel A. Tamano will lead the awarding, today, May 9, at 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bago City Coliseum. The women-scholars underwent a...
  • DOST-9 holds orientation, contract signing with new scholars in ZamPen

    ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 9 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – IX has concluded its Scholarship Orientation and Signing of the Scholarship Agreement of new undergraduate scholars in Zamboanga Peninsula. A total of 205 participants all over the region attended the series of orientation and contract signing with thirty eight (38) attendees, including the qualifiers and respective parents or legal guardians, inked to avail of the Science & Technology scholarship program funded ...
  • Phil Ambassador to Muscat visits PhilHealth

    MANILA, May 8 (PIA) -- The Philippine Ambassador to Muscat in Oman, Joselito A. Jimeno recently paid PhilHealth a visit to invite the State-run Health Insurance agency to become part of a coffee table book project which will feature the arts and literary works of young children of overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East. Through an inter-school art and literary competition, 32 Philippine schools and over 700 elementary and high school students in Oman, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Saudi ...
  • 115 Samarnon students benefit from Pantawid scholarship

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, May 8 (PIA) — Some 115 children from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Samar are now enjoying scholarship in five schools in Leyte. Samar Provincial Link Gina Omillo said that this is a part of the continuing support of the administration to uplift the lives of these disadvantaged sectors. These children who are interested and qualified, were identified and validated by the DSWD, availed...
  • Over 2,000 jobseekers join Tesda-DOLE Jobs Bridging

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 8 (PIA) -- In line with its commitment to help Tech-Voc graduates find jobs, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) Regional Office 10 conducted jobs bridging activity dubbed as “Hanapbuhay Para sa mga Tesda Specialista.” A total of 107 agencies participated in the job bridging comprising of 89 local and 18 overseas companies. Around 2,184 applicants were registered of which 1,600 were interviewed. Of the total interviewed applicants, 23...
  • DepEd assures its readiness for the mid-term elections

    QUEZON CITY, May 8 -- As the May 13, 2013 mid-term elections draw nearer, the Department of Education assures teachers’ readiness to serve as members of the Board of Election Inspectors (BEIs), Board of Canvassers (BOCs), and PCOS technicians. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro expresses its full confidence that the teachers are ready to do the job. “The Commission on Election has given training to the public school teachers who will again serve as PCOS technicians, and chairmen and mem...
  • 60 new scholars signs MOA with OWWA-12

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 8 (PIA) -- New beneficiaries of the scholarship programs of Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in Region 12 inked a memorandum of agreement that finalized their status as official OWWA scholars starting this school year 2013-2014. The new scholars, one for Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP), three for Congressional Migrant Workers Scholarship Program (CMWSP), and 56 for the OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (ODSP), along with their p...
  • TESDA jobs bridging program goes to Rizal

    ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, May 8 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) brought its Job Opportunities, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood (JOEL) for TESDA Specialistas program to residents of Rizal Province Tuesday at SM Taytay Event Center. A total of 22 companies offered jobs to Rizal residents, mostly technical-vocational (tech-voc). The Department of Labor and Employment, local Public Employment Services Office, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Soc...
  • 323 examinees hurdle 2012 A & E test

    DIPOLOG CITY, May 8 (PIA) -- Three-hundred twenty three examinees successfully passed the Accreditation and Equivalency Tests (A & E) test conducted by the Dipolog City Schools Division’s Alternative Learning System (ALS) in Dipolog City on Dec. 12, 2012. Ms. Catalina Samson-Barinaga, ALS coordinator, said of the 323 who passed the A & E test, 267 are out-of-school youth (OSY) and 56 were inmates of Dipolog City Jail. Of the 323 OSY passers, 244 are in the secondary level, while 23 are in ...
  • DOH calls on CL women to have regular check-ups to detect cervical cancer

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 8 (PIA) -- Department of Health (DOH) called on women in Central Luzon ages 21 and up to have regular check-up in order to know if they have cervical cancer. “We wanted, on our part, to provide needed information about cervical cancer. This disease is preventable, and we have already cited ways to determine if we have this illness, and this is by annual screenings – the Pap smear and the visual inspection using acetic acid (VIA)” said DOH Regional Direc...
  • DOLE partners with DA to help OFWs who want to venture in agribusiness

    QUEZON CITY, May 8 (PIA)--The Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) has partnered with the Department of Agriculture (DA) to implement a program for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families who intend to pursue agribusiness as part of the National Reintegration Program for OFWs. To formalize the partnership, Labor & Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz and Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, recently signed a memorandum of agreement for the cooperation in promoting agribusiness...
  • DOLE-ZamboSur releases P1.6-M worth of SPES checks on Labor Day

    PAGADIAN CITY, May 8 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment Zamboanga del Sur Field Office distributed more than P1.6 million worth of checks to 540 grantees of the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) during the Labor Day celebration at the Gaisano Capital Food Court on Wednesday, May 1. DOLE provincial head Lourdes Amores said the student grantees who ended their services last March 2013 were from Pagadian City – 260 grantees; Ramon Magsaysay - 27; Blancia Colleg...
  • GSIS extends scholarship application deadline

    ROXAS CITY, Capiz, May 8 (PIA) -- Members of the Government Service Insurance System has still a month more to apply for the agency’s scholarship program. This after GSIS President and General Manager Robert Vergara said in an online news that the deadline for filing of application for the scholarship program of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is extended until May 31, 2013. Capiz GSIS Manager Glorietta Dublas disclosed that Vergara has granted the extension of the deadline ...
  • 1.7M day care children to benefit from DSWD Feeding Program

    DAVAO CITY, May 7 – Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman said that 1,755,034 children in 45,389 day care centers nationwide will benefit from the Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for school year 2013-2014. In the 2013 DSWD budget, it has allocated more than P2.9 billion for the program covering all 17 regions including the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Secretary Soliman explained that the SFP is th...
  • Over 3,000 NorMin youth undergo Tesda-DSWD tech-voc training

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 7 (PIA) -- A total of 3,471 young people, ages 18-30, underwent technical-vocational training under the joint program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) dubbed Cash for Training Project (C4TP). C4TP is a training program that responds to the government’s thrust in providing sustainable intervention to improve the plight and condition of the youth and empower them through skil...
  • NAST-PHL launches Geminiano T. de Ocampo Visionary Awards for Medical Research

    CEBU CITY, May 7 (PIA) -- The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST-PHL), the country’s highest recognition and advisory body on science and technology, launched the Geminiano T. de Ocampo Visionary Awards for Medical Research. Medical researchers can now look forward to getting recognized for their work with the recent launch of the said award. The award seeks to recognize clinician researchers who have created the vision for medical research in the country through t...
  • Haven for the elderly celebrates 3rd founding anniversary

    TANAY, Rizal, May 7 (PIA) -- Celebrating its 3rd anniversary last April 25, the Haven for the Elderly located in Barangay Sampaloc, this municipality, held a series of activities under the theme “Nagkakaisa sa Maayos at Mahusay na Paglilingkod sa mga Nakatatanda.” The celebration, which focused on developing bond between and among center staff, its resident-elders and other center stakeholders, was graced by officials of the Department led by Undersecretary Parisya Taradji, Region IV-A Dire...
  • Youth in population development

    DINAGAT, Province of Dinagat Islands, May 7 (PIA) -- Youth leaders of this province pledged to support the campaign of the Commission on Population (Popcom) for responsible sexuality as their contribution in rationalizing population growth. Prioritizing the importance of community outreach, an action plan was formulated by the youth leaders as an offshoot of the summer camp held recently. They also organized themselves as advocates of the Population – Health – Environment (PHE) to hel...
  • 21 DOST-CAR scholars graduate with honors, 221 more to continue scholarship this SY2013-14

    LA TRINIDAD Benguet, May 7(PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has again helped deserving students in the Cordillera to have a college degree as 68 of their scholars graduated from their respective courses this end of school year 2012 - 2013 , 21 of them with honors. Of the 68 graduates, five are from Abra, two from Apayao, 11 from Baguio City, 14 from Benguet, five from Mountain Province and 31 from outside the Cordillera who opt to have their studies in the DOST’s partn...
  • DepEd sponsors training on the teaching of culture-based K to 12

    QUEZON CITY, May 7 -- The Department of Education (DepEd) is offering scholarships to teachers and education supervisors to hone their skills in effectively communicating to students a culture-based K to 12 curriculum. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro said it is important to understand that the goal of K to 12 is to develop holistic learners who are fully aware of their cultural identity as Filipinos. “While K to 12 is geared towards producing world-calibre graduates, all learning sho...
  • 3,356 CL jobseekers hired on the spot on Labor Day

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 7 (PIA) -- A total of 3,356 jobseekers in Central Luzon were hired on the spot (HOTS) during last week’s Labor Day job fairs. Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional information officer Jerry Borja bared that the newly hires accounted for 25 percent of the 13, 294 qualified applicants reported by their provincial field offices. Provinces with the most HOTS were Pampanga (1,468); Tarlac (1,132); and Bulacan (496). Among the positions filled up i...
  • New health facilities to benefit Pablo-hit towns in Davao Oriental

    BAGANGA, Davao Oriental, May 7 -- At least fifteen barangay health stations are set to benefit the three coastal towns hit by typhoon Pablo—a commitment that the Mindanao PhilSaga Foundation, Inc. in partnership with the provincial government vouched to put up. This was confirmed on Friday by the Foundation President, Dr. Victor P. Salvado during the ground breaking ceremony of the first of the fifteen health stations held at Barangay Salingcomot in Baganga town. Setting off for the first ti...
  • Ifugao LGUs ink MOA with DSWD to eliminate malnutrition

    LAGAWE, Ifugao,May 7 (PIA)-- The Department of Social Welfare and Development and the local governments here have signed a memorandum of agreement to curb malnutrition in children. Elena Otgalon, a social worker in charge of the said program, said the DSWD provides funds to feed day care pupils in the 337 day care centers while the provincial LGU monitors the implementation of the said program and the municipal and barangay levels implement it. “The Day Care worker will prepare the menu con...
  • Shipyard exec willing to help Tesda grads

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 6 (PIA) – The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) in Eastern Visayas plans to partner with a shipyard company to ensure employment of the graduates of the institution. Cleta Omega, Tesda regional director, said she has initiated talks with the top official of Keppel Philippines Marine Incorporated in one of the graduation rites for technical and vocational students that they both attended. The company has a shipyard in Batangas and Subic wh...
  • New records, differently-abled athletes and tree planting make for a different Palarong Pambansa

    PASIG CITY, May 6 -- Education Secretary Armin Luistro has declared the 2013 staging of the Palarong Pambansa in Dumaguete City as unrivaled in terms of local government unit (LGU) support, private sector participation, remarkable display of sporting prowess and environmental impact. “Palaro 2013 is sans rival because this is the first time that 19 municipalities and 6 cities helped make sure that Palaro 2013 will be a resounding success. It is also unprecedented that 11 private schools ope...
  • MSD and DOH go full circle for 6th Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, May 6 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH), in a public-private partnership with Merck Sharpe and Dohme (MSD) Philippines, is now on its sixth year of raising awareness and providing free cervical cancer screening programs nationwide. For the sixth run of its Cervical Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM) activities this May, both the DOH and MSD are going beyond just screening. This year, the awareness is going full circle—from prevention to treatment. Free screenings will...
  • GSIS Dumaguete branch launches service desk in Siquijor

    NEGROS ORIENTAL, May 6 (PIA) -- The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)-Dumaguete branch launched its service desk in Siquijor, Siquijor on April 26 as its highlight of its 39th anniversary celebration on April 29. Over the past years, the GSIS-Dumaguete has gained 19,502 members from the provinces of Negros Oriental and Siquijor. The GSIS service desk is a replication of the agency’s front line service unit that aims to assist members in Siquijor to avail of its various services a...
  • Feature: From wishful thinking to happy drinking

    NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, May 6 (PIA) -- Sipaway Island is host to pristine, white grains of sands, undiscovered shores and developed beaches, and a diver’s haven, in this northern part of the province, some 15 minutes boat ride from the wharf of San Carlos City, the mainland. Before reaching this tropical paradise, one has to traverse the winding road of the P70-million Negros Trans Link Highway, approximately 90 kilometers from the province’s capital of Bacolod City. An island is naturally su...
  • 51 PWDs complete voc skills training

    ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 6 (PIA) -- Fifty one persons with disability (PWDs) who completed a vocational skills training received their diplomas during a simple graduation rites held at the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC)-III of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). “Graduates of this year availed themselves of courses on Agriculture, Basic Computer Operations, Commercial Arts, Cosmetology, Graphic Arts, Garments Technology, Industrial Arts and Scientific Massage,”...
  • 394 workers hired in Labor Day jobs fair

    LEGAZPI CITY, May 6 (PIA) -- At least 394 were hired-on-the-spot among the 3,050 job applicants in the recently concluded Mega Jobs Fair held at SM City in Naga City and Embarcadro de Legazpi activity center here on May 1. DOLE Bicol regional director Nathaniel Lacambra said the 394 who were hired right there and then at the jobs fair comprised the 15 percent of the qualified applicants who applied during the Labor Day simultaneous jobs fair. “These will provide them (HOTS) decent jobs and...
  • DSWD to implement P91.72M anti-poverty projects in Soccsksargen

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 6 (PIA) -- Social preparations are underway for the implementation of the P91.73 million worth of poverty alleviation projects in Soccsksargen Region, an official of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 12 said. Bai Zorahayda T. Taha, DSWD-12 regional director, told Philippine Information Agency- 12 that at least 25 municipalities in three provinces of Region 12 will benefit from the projects, which were...
  • CAR strengthens inter-provincial malaria collaboration

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, May 6 (PIA) -- The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) along with several private sector and non government organizations have intensified its fight against malaria. The Center for Health and Development (CHD-CAR), Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. (PSFI) /Global Fund Movement Against Malaria (GFMAM) and the provincial governments of Ifugao and Mountain Province have strengthened the inter-provincial scheme to eliminate malaria with the inclusion of the province of Kali...
  • Albay cites 2013 school and barangay education achievers

    LEGAZPI CITY, May 6 (PIA) -- The provincial government of Albay has recognized anew the best performing schools and barangay partners in education under its Gay Palcon and Barangay Kasangga sa Edukasyon o BAKAS Achievers 2013 Awards. The local government's Provincial Education Department (PED) conferred the Gay Palcon Achievement Awards, named after the late educator and first PED head Dr. Ligaya Palcon, to the best performing schools based on the results of the 2012 National Achievement Test, ...
  • DSWD-MIMAROPA accepts nominations for Ulirang Nakatatanda Awards 2013

    QUEZON CITY, May 6 (PIA) -- The search is on for the 4th Ulirang Nakatatanda Awards 2013 for senior citizens in Region IV-B. This annual awards aims to acknowledge and recognize the contributions of the older persons. The awards not only aims to encourage them to continue what they are doing but also to continuously promote and encourage Filipino families and communities to reaffirm and continue the valued Filipino tradition of respect and care for the senior citizens. The recognition reaffirms...
  • Over 1,400 Bikolano youths benefit from cash for training program

    LEGAZPI CITY, May 6 (PIA) – A total of 1,466 beneficiaries of the Cash-for-Training Program (C4TP) of the government are now training on skills development undet the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) regional offices here. Tesda Bicol specialist Aileen A. Lozada said the program has already attained 45 percent accomplishment as of April 18, 2013, for having a total of 1,466 out of the 3,286 targeted benefi...
  • Communities are key to development – Soliman

    LEGAZPI CITY, May 6 (PIA) -- Citizens are crucial to the pursuit of progress. Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Juliano-Soliman of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said community-driven development (CDD) approach can operationalize “inclusive growth” with the communities playing key role to effect development. Soliman, representing the national government, has recently signed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Albay Governor Joey Sarte Salceda and the Department of ...
  • DTI Quirino sets two-day Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan in Cabarroguis

    CABARROGUIS, Quirino, May 5 (PIA) -- After the successful conduct of Diskwento Fair at Diffun town last year, the Department of Trade and Industry-Quirino Provincial Office will duplicate said activity this time at the Provincial Capitol Grounds here on May 15-16, 2013. Dubbed “Balik Eskwela Diskwento Caravan, the activity aims to help parents save money by making discounted products accessible to them. Susan Janer, senior trade and industry specialist said 21 entrepreneurs have confirme...
  • Paranaque City gives out pension to indigent elderly

    PARANAQUE CITY, May 6 (PIA) – The Paranaque City government gave out monthly pensions to 350 indigent senior citizens of the city. The beneficiaries were qualified based on the standards set in the DSWD National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction. The DSWD’s Social Pension Program is provided under Republic Act 9994 which is also known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010. Under said law, covered seniors are given P500.00 monthly pensions to help them with their dail...
  • 2,317 OSY, adults in Cordillera pass DepEd-ALS A&E Test

    BAGUIO CITY, May 4 (PIA) -- More than 2,300 out of school youths and adults from the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) have now the opportunity to continue their secondary education or even pursue a college degree after they passed the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System (DepED-ALS) Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) Examination. Based on the December 2012 ALS A&E examination result released by the Bureau of Alternative Learning System, there are 2,317 school drop-ou...
  • DOH, drug firm to hold free cervical cancer screenings in Pampanga

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 3 (PIA) -- Department of Health (DOH) and a pharmaceutical firm, MSD Philippines, will hold free cervical cancer screenings for women aged 25-49 years old at the Jose B. Lingad Memorial Hospital for the whole month of May. In a joint media statement, DOH and MSD said, “Our partnership, which is now on its sixth year, is in line with the observance of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM). This 2013, the awareness is going full circle - from prevention to t...
  • Agri school gets P500,000 assistance from DA 12

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 3 (PIA) -- A public agricultural school in nearby Surallah town got a commitment of P500,000 from the Department of Agriculture (DA) 12. DA-12 regional executive director Amalia Jayag-Datukan pledged the additional assistance during the 13th Commencement exercises of the Surallah Agricultural National High School (Sunas), on April 23 where she was the guest of honor. She said Sunas could make use of the aid to fund ...
  • Benguet hosts nat'l volleyball tilt

    LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, May 3 (PIA) -- The province of Benguet once again is hosting the national volleyball tilt of the Philippine Volleyball Federation (PVF). On Tuesday, top colleges and universities across the country opened their bid for the 2013 National Intercollegiate Volleyball Championships at the Cordillera Career Development College Gymnasium in this capital town. This is the 11th staging of the national volleyball competition and the third time Benguet is hosting. The games set f...
  • PCW cites contributions of women workers in the country’s economy

    QUEZON CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) cited the immeasurable contribution of women in the country’s workforce who work not only to earn for their family but also to harness their potentials to make economic and social contributions. PCW is lead government agency that steers development efforts towards women's empowerment and gender equality. In its Labor Day statement, the PCW stressed the need to respect and fulfill the rights of women workers who have steadf...
  • DepEd increases tuition fee subsidy for Grade 7 students

    QUEZON CITY, May 3 -- The Department of Education has increased by 24% the number of slots for Grade 7 students availing of tuition fee subsidy in private schools under the education service contracting scheme (ESC). Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro in a statement said that from 250,896 slots in school year 2012-2013, the ESC slots for Grade 7 students has been increased to 310,709 slots for school year 2013-2014. ESC is a scheme under the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in...
  • Cancer survivor is among outstanding students in CAR

    BAGUIO CITY, May 3 (PIA) -- A cancer survivor who recently graduated from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) is among the Ten Outstanding Students in the Cordillera Administrative Region (OSCAR) 2013 recognized in awarding ceremonies last week here. Cancer did not stop PMA cadet and now 2nd Lieutenant Prolen Bonacua from pursuing his dream to become a soldier and a public servant. In 2011, while he was a cadet at the premiere military school, Bonacua was detected of lymphoma that forc...
  • MARINA professionalizes domestic sea travel

    DAVAO CITY, May 3 (PIA) -- The Maritime Industry Authority in Davao Region sworn in their respective professions Thursday 101 deck and 102 engine officers in an unprecedented move to professionalized domestic sea travel. Atty. Gloria Banas, deputy administrator for operations of the Marina who presided over the oath-taking-ceremony spoke with pride on the achievement of the Marina XI in professionalizing the ranks of local seafarers. She said the activity realizes one of the Marina’s objecti...
  • Government pours P29.34 M for techvoc scholarships in Region 12

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato May 3 (PIA) -- Some 5,510 scholarship slots are now open to young people in Soccsksargen Region who are interested on taking technical vocational education, an official here announced today. Zeus Ampuyas, regional director of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – 12 told Philippine Information Agency 12 that the national government has allotted P29,344,000 for agency’s two flagship scholarship...
  • Tarlaqueño OWWA scholar, now a professional migrant worker in Qatar

    TARLAC CITY, May 3 (PIA) -- An Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) scholar from Tarlac is now earning the fruits of the hard work of her parents as she is now a professional migrant worker herself in Qatar. In an interview via Skype during Tuesday’s Job and Livelihood Fair in St. Michael’s Park, Camp Servillano Aquino in Tarlac City which President Benigno Aquino III graced, 28-year old Mylene Gomez said “OWWA had been a great help for my studies. My Father, Isaias, worked in t...
  • Aquino inaugurates newly upgraded Naga City Hospital

    NAGA CITY, May 3 -- President Benigno S. Aquino III led the inauguration Friday of the newly upgraded Naga City Hospital for the health care needs of the poor Naguenos. “Sa pagbalik natin dito sa Naga, hatid natin ang isa na namang magandang balitang bunga ng ating bayanihan at pagpiling iangat ang kapwa ---ang mas pinaunlad na Naga City Hospital,” the President said in his message during the inauguration. “Iisa ang diwa ng ating mga programang pangkalusugan: binibigyang-lakas natin ang ...
  • DOLE 12 brings labor education to schools

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 12 is scoring another first. This time, the agency is bringing its labor advocacy where the incoming labor force are – in colleges, universities and technical vocational schools. As a highlight of the celebration of the 111th Labor Day celebration, DOLE 12 on May 1 signed a memorandum of agreement with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Depa...
  • OWWA launches new program for OFWs in Tarlac

    TARLAC CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) on Tuesday launched its newest program dubbed “Mag-impok…Magnegosyo Movement (M-3)” during the Job and Livelihood Fair in Camp Servillano Aquino in Tarlac City which President Aquino graced. The program is aimed at encouraging Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families to save income for their future investments. “Overseas employment is not permanent, and with this, on the part of OWWA, together with t...
  • Tesda offers more OSY scholars

    DUMAGUETE CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) is offering more scholarship slots for out-of-school youth (OSY) beneficiaries under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Cash for Training Project (C4TP) in Negros Oriental. Tesda Director General Joel Villanueva, in a press conference recently held here, said the P1.3 billion national project is in partnership with the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program of DSWD. It intends...
  • 19 former OFWS get livelihood aid from on Labor Day; over 60 more “on the pipeline”

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 2 (PIA) -- Nineteen women former overseas Filipino workers yesterday received check of P10,0000 each that they can use to start an enterprise. Abdulghani K. Umag, regional director of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) 12, the assistance was distributed under the re-integration program Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay program. “The recipients of grants today (May 1) is part of the 52 ...
  • Self-employed groups receive capital support

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, May 2 (PIA) – At least two associations for the self-employed will receive capital assistance to buy seeds for for the government’s environmental preservation program. Allan Lulu, DSWD information officer, said the agreement covers the provision of P350,000 in capital assistance to the Villacorta Green Thumb and the Mapita Seedlings Planters in Pangasinan province. The associations are recipients of the DSWD’s self-employment assistance kaunlaran (Sea-K) program. The f...
  • 90 hired on the spot in Bacolod Labor Day jobs fair

    NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, May 2 (PIA) -- Ninety job applicants in yesterday’s Labor Day jobs fair at SM City Bacolod were hired on the spot. DOLE Field Office Head Maria Victoria Mondragon said in an interview that the newly-hired were chosen out of 2,049 qualified applicants based on the demands of the industry. They will soon be working locally as layout artists, cashiers, waiters, baggers, cooks and marketing officers. Some 2,505 applicants registered prior to the fair, which is one of DOLE’s...
  • DOLE urges employers to hire on the spot

    ILOILO CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) region 6 appealed to companies and agencies taking part in the Labor Day jobs fair to hire qualified job seekers on the spot. DOLE 6 Regional Assistant Director Salome Siaton said these job fairs are conducted to lessen the unemployment rate in Western Visayas so it would help if employers immediately hire qualified applicants. “Let us not wait for the time that we will hire jobseekers qualified for the position in e...
  • 14 OFW kids pass scholarship program

    DAGUPAN CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- Overseas Filipino Workers won’t have to worry sending their children in college thanks to the scholarship program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Amapola Villar, labor communication officer, said that 14 OFW dependents from the Ilocos Region passed the qualifying examination for the Congressional Migrant Workers Scholarship Program (CMWSP) in November. Of the OWWA scholars, 12 are from the province of Pangasinan, namely: Kisha Shemuelyn R...
  • Jobseekers told not to worry if not hired at Labor Day job fairs

    ILOILO CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- Jobseekers who were not hired on the spot at the Labor Day job fairs conducted in this city yesterday were told not to worry as employers will continue processing their applications. “Selecting job applicants is a very tough job for employers. They may need more time to review job applications, to go over details of your credentials and may need to conduct another set of interview,” said Pearl Janet Gorriceta, president of the Panay Service Exporters Association ...
  • 20 visually impaired therapists take oath under DOH

    CEBU CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- Twenty visually-impaired (VI) therapists who passed the recent licensure examination for massage therapy took their oath as licensed massage therapists. It was administered by the Department of Health’s (DOH) Committee of Examiners for Massage Therapy (CEMT). Olymer Adiva, 24, who ranked third in the nationwide examination, beamed with pride and joy as he accepted his certificate and license. “Wala jud ko nag-expect nga ma-third place ko pero nag-ampo ko ug maa...
  • MSU continues to help capacitate Muslim communities

    MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, May 2 (PIA) -- Mindanao State University (MSU) continues to serve as an effective instrument in capacitating Muslim communities to catch up with more developed communities in the country. This was emphasized by MSU President Macapado Muslim during the groundbreaking rites of the College of Information Technology building in MSU main campus recently. Muslim said one noticeable trend in the university today is the increasing number of top performing Muslim students a...
  • DOLE-2 employs 8,238 job seekers

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 2 was able to assist some 8, 238 job seekers through its Provincial Employment Service Offices (PESOs) in the different provinces of the region in the first quarter of 2013. During the quarter, there were 12, 390 job applicants who registered for job matching in the different vacancies posted in their respective offices as well as on-line. Atty. Sixto Rodriguez Jr., regional director, said the applicants are n...
  • 31,000 criminology, education graduates join PRC’s ranks of Filipino professionals

    BAGUIO CITY, May 1 (PIA) -- More than 31,000 criminology and education graduates join the ranks of the country’s professional workforce as the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) released the result of their recent board examinations. PRC-Baguio Regional Office Director Teofilo Gaius Sison Jr. disclosed that for the March 10 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), 10,310 out of the 37,117 examinees nationwide passed the elementary level while 15,223 out of the 38,433 examinees pa...
  • 16,388 jobs up for grabs at DOLE’s Jobs Fair in Isabela City

    ISABELA CITY, Basilan, May 1 (PIA) -- Labor day observance in the city started eight days ahead, as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-IX held a Jobs Fair last April 23 with 16,388 jobs available overseas. Engr. Wesley D. Tan, head of DOLE’s provincial office here, said that seven recruitment agencies for overseas employment and two local agencies participated in the event. During the opening ceremony, Tan told some 146 job seekers to always be ready to face opportunities equipp...
  • PNoy graces Job and Livelihood Fair in Tarlac

    TARLAC CITY, May 1 (PIA) -- President Benigno Aquino III graced on Tuesday the Job and Livelihood Fair in St. Michael’s Park, Camp Servillano Aquino, Tarlac City where up to 40,000 local and overseas careers in business process outsourcing, retail, service and manufacturing industries were up for grabs. Anchored on the theme “Manggagawang Pilipino: Handa sa Hamon ng Makabangong Panahon”, the event was co-sponsored by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Tarlac Provincial Public Empl...
  • 1,132 jobseekers hired on the spot during Tarlac Job and Livelihood Fair

    TARLAC CITY, May 1 (PIA) -- A total of 1,132 jobseekers were hired on the spot during Tuesday’s Job and Livelihood Fair in Camp Aquino, Tarlac City which President Benigno Aquino III graced. Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional information officer Jerry Borja said that the new hires accounted for 32 percent of the 3,475 applicants who registered. Positions filled up included customer service representatives, sales clerks, waiters, production workers and factory workers. Among ...
  • 323 examinees hurdle 2012 A & E test

    DIPOLOG CITY, May 1(PIA) --Three-hundred twenty three examinees successfully passed the Accreditation and Equivalency Tests (A & E) test conducted by the Dipolog City Schools Division’s Alternative Learning System (ALS) in Dipolog City on Dec. 12, 2012. Ms. Catalina Samson-Barinaga, ALS coordinator, said of the 323 who passed the A & E test, 267 are out-of-school youth (OSY) and 56 were inmates of Dipolog City Jail. Of the 323 OSY passers, 244 are in the secondary level, while 23 are in th...
  • Two Eastern Visayas youth represent the country at Asian Youth Forum in India

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 30 (PIA) -- Two young ladies from Eastern Visayas left the country on April 27 to represent the Philippines at the Asian Youth Forum which was conducted on April 30 to May 1 at New Delhi, India. The two young ladies are Janice Tapil, 18 years old third year Communication Arts student who is a Plan volunteer and PIA youth correspondent; and Mae Elizabeth Abella from Eastern Samar who is also a Plan volunteer. Accompanying them is Plan Philippines Visayas staff Leah...
  • Aquino to workers, employers: Make Labor Day a 'good job day'

    MANILA, April 30 -- President Benigno S. Aquino III today called on the Filipino workforce and employers to make Labor Day a "good job day," setting aside negativism and blaming. Aquino issued his appeal during a pre-Labor Day dialogue with labor organizations in Malacanang on Tuesday. “Hindi po ba mas maganda kung imbes na tratuhin ang Labor Day bilang araw ng piket at sigawan, ituring natin ito bilang selebrasyon— isang araw na masayang nagdiriwang ang mga manggagawa at mga negosyante da...
  • Honesty, attitude could earn an applicant a job, says DOLE 12 director

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 30 (PIA) -- Besides qualifications, honesty and attitude towards work are important boosters to an applicant’s chances to win his or her desired job, said Ofelia Domingo, regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 12. “During job interviews, do not try to be overly impressive. Be yourself. Be honest,” Domingo advised applicants when asked how job applicants should face interv...
  • PWDs urged to participate in job fairs-DOLE XI

    DAVAO CITY, April 30 (PIA) -- Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are urged to participate in the slated job fairs in the region in time for the observance of Labor Day on May 1 (Wednesday). Department of Labor and Employment regional director Joffrey Suyao assured that everyone is welcome, especially the PWDs to choose and apply from among the more than 30,000 jobs to be opened during the job fair events. Suyao said his office is coordinating with the officers of PWDs organizations to discuss on...
  • DOH-7 warns public vs typhoid

    CEBU CITY, April 30 (PIA) -- With the Philippine summer heat driving more Filipinos to drink more water, government health officials urged the public to be cautious with what they drink and eat. Officials from Department of Health (DOH) in Region 7 warned that ingesting contaminated food and water can lead to typhoid, the second leading disease ailing residents in the region. Other diseases caused by contaminated water include diarrhea, cholera, and dysentery. “During summertime, people t...
  • DOLE in Eastern Visayas enjoins all workers to join Labor Day Celebration on May 1

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 30 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Eastern Visayas enjoins all workers in the region to join the 111th Celebration of Labor Day on May 1. In a press conference held today at the DOLE Regional Training Center, DOLE Region 8 OIC Director Exequiel Sarcauga said several activities will be conducted tomorrow which will begin with a Unity Walk/Run followed by a Eucharistic Celebration at 8 a.m. and a Commemorative Program at Tacloban Astrodome. Door ...
  • Job seekers vie for 40,000 posts in TESDA, DOLE fair

    QUEZON CITY, April 30 -- More than 40,000 jobs were up for grabs on Tuesday at the job fair organized by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Department of Labor and Employment in Tarlac City in celebration of Labor Day. A total of 126 local employers and overseas recruitment agencies were at the fair, as thousands of graduates, including technical vocational graduates of TESDA came armed with their credentials to try out for their future job. President Beni...
  • PNoy to grace job, livelihood fair in Tarlac

    TARLAC CITY, April 30 (PIA) -- President Benigno Aquino III is scheduled to grace the Job and Livelihood Fair in St. Michael’s Park, Camp Servillano Aquino, Tarlac City where up to 40,000 local and overseas careers in business process outsourcing, retail, service and manufacturing industries are up for grabs. Anchored on the theme “Manggagawang Pilipino: Handa sa Hamon ng Makabangong Panahon”, the event is co-sponsored by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Tarlac Provincial Public...
  • 18,000 job vacancies in Cebu, NegOr jobs fairs to mark Labor Day, says DOLE-7

    CEBU CITY, April 30 (PIA) – It will be a field day for job seekers tomorrow as 18,000 job vacancies will be up for grabs in five jobs fairs in Cebu and Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental undertaken by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 7. DOLE-7 Regional Director Chona M. Mantilla during the forum of the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO) 7 said there are 11,000 local job vacancies and 7,000 overseas employment opportunities to be offered tomorrow. “The conduct ...
  • DOLE, Tesda team up for training of job applicants

    ILOILO CITY, April 30 (PIA) -- Apart from providing employment opportunities during the May 1 Jobs Fair, the Department of Labor and Employment in Western Visayas (DOLE-6), will also monitor the skills level of job seekers. DOLE-6 Assistant Regional Director Salome Siaton said that Memorandum Order dated April 15, 2013 has instructed all Regional Directors and Offices to submit a report of job applicants who lack skills training during the Labor Day Jobs Fair. “These job seekers will be r...
  • DOLE- Abra gives go signal to SPES program implementation

    BANGUED, Abra, April 30 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has given the participating employers in Abra the signal to start the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) this summer 2013. The SPES is one of DOLE’s flagship programs on poverty alleviation that provides employment to poor but deserving students who wish to pursue their education. Apollo Luspian, the provincial director of DOLE-Abra explained that the new process in the implementation of the SP...
  • DOLE leads mega job fairs in Pangasinan on Labor Day

    DAGUPAN CITY, April 30 (PIA) -- No wage hike is expected on Labor Day but job seekers may land on any of the 11,000 job vacancies that are up for grabs on May 1. The Department of Labor and Employment will lead two job fairs in separate sites in Pangasinan, one at SM Mall in Rosales, the other at the Robinsons Mall in Calasiao town. “Job fairs are important avenues to bring together employers and job seekers to facilitate employment,” said DOLE Regional Director Grace Ursua during a pres...
  • Supplemental Feeding Program targets 3-4 year old kids

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 30 (PIA) -- The regional office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development will implement the Supplemental Feeding Program (SFP) on July this year with funding of ₱166,152,000 million. Pauline Nadera, DSWD-SFP focal person, said the feeding will run for 120 days and the budget per child is ₱12.50 which includes viand and rice. The meals will be served six days in a week including Saturdays. Nadera clarified that the hot meal is not intended to replace ...
  • DOLE XI lines up 31,105 jobs on the Labor Day jobs fair

    DAVAO CITY, April 29 (PIA) -- A total of 31,105 jobs will be offered in Davao region on the jobs fair set by Department of Labor and Employment XI on the 111th year- celebration of Labor Day on May 1 in the cities of Tagum and Davao. Speaking at the Kapehan sa Dabaw at the SM City, Atty. Jeoffrey Suyao, director of the DOLE XI said 3,922 local jobs and 27,183 overseas job-placements will be up for grabs with the participation of 155 local and 66 overseas firms, respectively. He said the ten in...
  • Aspiring doctor lone qualifier for Ilocos Region’s OWWA scholarship program

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, April 30 (PIA) -- An aspiring doctor was the lone qualifier in the Ilocos Region for the scholarship program of the Overseas Worker’s Welfare Administration (OWWA). Only Jan Alfre Juanay, a graduate of the Brain and Heart Center (BHC) Educational Institution here, who was one of 336 examinees in the Ilocos passed the Education for Development Scholarship Program administered by OWWA in November last year. He was also among the top 105 qualifiers in the nationwide examinati...
  • Job fair to offer 4,000 jobs on Labor Day

    NEGROS OCC., April 30 (PIA)-- Some 50 local and foreign-based employers will offer up to 4,000 jobs at SM City Bacolod in celebration of the Labor Day. On the regional level, a total of 34,000 jobs are made available by 200 employers in a synchronized job fair that will also take place in SM City Iloilo and Mary Mart, Department of Labor and Employment Regional Director Ponciano Ligutom said. Pre-registrations were held days before May 1 to hasten matching of skills and qualifications and ...
  • Batac joins synchronized jobs fair on Labor Day

    LAOAG CITY, Apr 30 (PIA) – At least 3,500 jobs are up for grabs at the Imelda Cultural Center in Batac City as part of the Ilocos Region’s synchronized jobs fair from Ilocos Norte to Pangasinan on Labor Day. Jointly sponsored by the Batac City government and the Department of Labor and Employment, the jobs fair will be conducted from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 1 to mark the nationwide Labor Day. Leonavella Dadiz, DOLE information officer for Ilocos Norte, said 25 local companies and 10 recru...
  • DOLE 3 continues to invite repatriates, fresh college grads to 2013 Labor Day job fairs in CL

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga April 30 (PIA) -- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office 3 continues to invite repatriated workers from the Middle East, fresh college graduates and other job seekers to attend the government-sponsored 111th Labor Day job fairs in Central Luzon tomorrow. DOLE regional director Raymundo Agravante bared that thousands of local and overseas careers in business process outsourcing, retail, service and manufacturing industries are up for grabs in the...
  • 321 beneficiaries in Albay receives CELAs

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 30 (PIA) -- With the government’s thrust in providing shelter to the homeless, Vice-President Jejomar Binay led the distribution of Certificates of Lot Award (CELA) to 321 beneficiaries in Sto. Domingo town in Albay over the weekend. The awarding of CELAs accords with Presidential Proclamation No. 40 that declared the unutilized land of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) in the province of Albay as socialized housing sites to qualified beneficiaries. “The proclamat...
  • DOLE-10 to hold Diskwento Caravan

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office 10 will hold a Diskwento Caravan on May 2 and 3 in line with the 111th Labor Day celebration in the region. The two-day caravan, with the theme “Presyong Panalo ang Empleyado,” will be held at the Provincial Capitol Ground in Velez Street, this city. Lawyer Johnson G. Cañete, DOLE-10 Regional Director, said the activity aims to provide an opportunity to the labor sector, most especially th...
  • BFAR Bicol selects scholars among fishers’ kids

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 29 (PIA) -- Screening for the college scholarship program of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Bicol has drawn a total of 132 examinees from the six provinces of Bicol. BFAR Bicol regional director Dennis del Socorro said the competitive examination intends to select qualified children of small-scale fisher folks who want to pursue and finish higher education. Del Socorro said examinees in the recent 7th Nationwide Competitive Examination for Fisherie...
  • Search for Bicol’s outstanding barangay nutrition scholars on

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 29 (PIA) -- The National Nutrition Council (NNC) regional office here has been assessing entries for the regional outstanding barangay nutrition scholars (BNS) that have shown or achieved exemplary performance and achievements in pursuit of nutrition programs and initiatives. The council will choose from among 3,600 BNS from the six provinces and seven cities of Bicol, NNC Bicol Regional Director Arlene Reario said. Reario explained that giving recognition to outstanding r...
  • DBM ok's P575-M for school's furniture

    MANILA, April 29 --The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released P575.3 million to the Department of Education (DepEd) for the purchase of school tables and other furniture, supporting the Aquino administration’s commitment to improve educational facilities nationwide and boost the country’s public education system. Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad said the release—chargeable against DepEd’s fund for the Requirement of Basic Education Facilities under the 2013...
  • Univ of the Cordilleras tops Criminologist exam, 9 in Top 10

    BAGUIO CITY, April 29 (PIA) -- The University of the Cordilleras proved anew that it is the number one criminology school in the country after all of its 113 examinees in the April 2013 Criminologist licensure exam passed, with nine in Top 10. On Friday, University of the Cordilleras President Dr. Ricardo Pama, Vice President for Administration Dr. Leonarda Aguinalde and Criminal Justice Education (CJE) College Dean Ariel Pumecha presented to the media the topnotchers of the recent examinati...
  • 411 get jobs in DOLE 12’s pre-Labor Day job fair

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 29 (PIA) -- Almost four in every 10 applicants during the job fair here Friday got employed, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) -12. Terminal report on the April 26 pre-Labor Day job fair at the Gaisano Grand Mall of Marbel indicates that 411 of the 1,068 registered applicants were hired-on-the spot (HOTS). “Of those hired, 335 landed local jobs while 76 got overseas employment,” DOLE 12 labor communicat...
  • DOLE-NCR conducts labor education seminar for graduating students

    QUEZON CITY, April 29 (PIA)--The Department of Labor & Employment –National Capital Region (DOLE-NCR) is intensifying the conduct of Labor Education for Graduating Students (LEGS), a seminar program designed to guide “would-be workers” on their rights and responsibilities at work. DOLE-NCR Regional Director Allan Macaraya said about 2,000 students from various schools in Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela have attended the LEGS seminar conducted by the DOLE-NCR CAMANAVA field o...
  • Clear-cut OJT standards to benefit studes

    ILOILO CITY, April 29 (PIA) --- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-6) will hold an orientation and consultation on the drafting of the On-the-Job Training (OJT) manual on May 10, 2013 as one of the highlights of this year’s celebration of the Labor Month. DOLE-6 Assistant Regional Director Salome Siaton said that this initiative will address the issue of the lack of work experience among fresh graduates which impedes their chances of getting employed shortly after graduation. “...
  • Kalinga collaborates in inter-provincial effort to end malaria

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 29 (PIA) -– Kalinga province has formally joined the provinces of Ifugao and Mountain Province in the Inter-Provincial Partnership for Malaria Elimination with the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA). Named as the “Gawis Haggiyo Lin-awa Partnership for Malaria Elimination” ,this first of its kind collaboration done in the country to eliminate said disease was formally inked last April 25, 2013 highlighting the World Malaria Day celebration in Kalinga w...
  • DepEd Quirino to construct more classrooms

    CABARROGUIS, Quirino, April 29 (PIA)--Thirty two schools of the Department of Education here will be given additional classrooms to address the needs of the increasing number of pupils in the province. In Diffun district, the classrooms will be constructed at Dona Imelda Elementary School, and other elementary schools such as San Pascual, Baguio Village, San Antonio, Liwayway, Rizal, Gulac, Maria Clara, Villa Pascua and Upper Gabriela. In Maddela, the classrooms will be constructed at Vill...
  • DOLE 2 to stage job fair, services caravan on Labor Day

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, April 29 (PIA)---The Department of Labor and Employment-Region 2 (DOLE-2) is set to conduct job fair and services caravan this May 1 at the City Hall of Santiago City as part of the nationwide celebration of the Labor Day,said DOLE Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez, Jr. “The theme for this year’s celebration is Manggagawang Pilipino, Handa sa Hamon ng Makabagong Panahon. This is timely because the new millennium is going global and our workers are not exe...
  • COMELEC grants election ban exemption on SPES

    COMELEC grants election ban exemption on SPES By Reginald B. Estioco and Oliver T. Baccay TUGUEGARAO CITY, April 29 (PIA) --The Commission on Election (COMELEC) Region 2 has already released the ban exemption for the implementation of the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) this election period. In the reply of election Regional Director Atty. Julius D. Torres he specified that “pursuant to COMELEC Resolution No. 9581, the request for exemption from the election ban of Att...
  • Six schools to pilot K to 12's Senior High school

    BORONGAN CITY, EASTERN SAMAR, April 29 (PIA)- The Department of Education (DepEd), Eastern Samar Schools Division is set to launch by third week of May the Senior High School level of the newly implemented curriculum, K to 12. The major courses under this level are: 1)Vocational, 2) Business Accounting and Management, 3)Humanities, Education and Social Science (HESS) and 4) Science and Technology, Engineering and Management. With the new curriculum, the DepEd expects that the new graduate...
  • DOLE issues Labor Day pay rules

    QUEZON CITY, April 29 (PIA)--The Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) has issued pay rules for the Labor Day. This is based on Proclamation No. 459 on the Payment of Wages for the Regular Holidays, Special (Non-working) Days, and Special Holiday for the Year 2013. According to the DOLE guideline, if the holiday falls on an employee’s regular workday and the day is worked, the employee is entitled to 200 percent of his basic wage on the first eight (8) hours and, for work in excess of ...
  • Jobs fair, turnover of SPES checks to cap 111th Labor Day celebration in ZamboSur

    PAGADIAN CITY, April 29 (PIA) – Anchored on the theme, “Manggagawang Pilipino: Handa sa Hamon ng Makabagong Panahon (Filipino workers: Ready for the challenges of the new era),” jobs fair and turnover of Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) will highlight the 111th Labor Day celebration on May 1 at the Gaizano Food Court this city. Labor and Employment Office chief Lourdes B. Amores said the special event would start with a motorcade around the city to be participated ...
  • DSWD, Albay ink MOA to pilot anti-poverty project

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman and Albay Governor Jose “Joey” Salceda signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Thursday last week here in piloting the Community-Driven Development (CDD) strategy in scaling up the implementation of Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS). “We want Albay to be part of this breakthrough and we really...
  • Family of OFW dependents in CL urged to avail of OWWA scholarship

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, April 28 (PIA) -- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) enjoins dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) in Central Luzon to avail of their scholarships. “We are accepting applications under our Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP). The scholarship shall be in the form of financial assistance worth P60,000 per school year to be paid directly to the school as tuition fees,” said OWWA Regional Director Socorro Castro. “The grant...
  • TESDA- Mountain Province trains 188 C4TP beneficiaries

    BONTOC, Mountain Province, April 26 (PIA) -- The Cash for Training Program (C4TP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has already trained 188 beneficiaries in the province. Provincial Director Gabriel Cayacay of the Technical Education, Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) said the 188 are part of the 665 slots of skills training alloted for the province. Of the 188 trained beneficiaries, 80 were trained in automotive in the municipality of Paracelis which was ...
  • Tesda finds jobs for tech-voc grads in Negros Oriental

    DUMAGUETE CITY, April 27 (PIA) -- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) director general Joel Villanueva said twenty-eight local and overseas companies participated in Wednesday’s jobs bridging program or jobs fair in Dumaguete City. Tesda’s jobs fair is a pre-Labor Day celebration to provide employment of new technical-vocational graduates in Negros Oriental. Villanueva said Tesda helps graduates find the right job after having a national certificate on the tech-vo...
  • DSWD official lauds media’s help for SFP promotion

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 26 (PIA) – The Supplemental Feeding Program (SFP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Eastern Visayas was successfully launched April 23 at the Activity Center of the Robinson’s Place in Tacloban City. The SFP was launched by the department’s Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign. In attendance during the launching were members of the fourth estate who were acknowledged by an official of the agency for their active support i...
  • TESDA’s Jobs Bridging Program launched in Bohol

    TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, April 26 (PIA) -- Technical Education and Special Skills Development Authority (TESDA) launched its first provincial event Hanapbuhay para sa mga TESDA Specialista in Bohol last April 23 following a series of successful jobs fair in Metro Manila. Hundreds of technical vocational graduates trooped to Bohol Cultural Center for the whole day fair. TESDA director general Joel Villanueva graced the launching with TESDA-7 regional director Rosanna Urdaneta, Provincial Direc...
  • SM Foundation grants scholarships to 14 Cauayan City indigent students

    CAUAYAN CITY, Isabela, April 26 (PIA) -- The SM Foundation has selected 14 indigent students from this city for year 2013-2014 who are entering college. These scholars successfully passed the aptitude test and interviews conducted first week of April in the city said SM Foundation executive director for Education Carmen Linda Atayde. Atayde said the lucky scholars are Mercedes G. Acosta, Jhun King Alindayu, Arnie T. Antonio, Jennifer O. Arcadio, Jermagne A. Ceria, Myrna P. del rosaio, Joseph C...
  • PIA head enjoins student leaders to keep on learning

    BACOLOR, Pampanga, April 26 (PIA) -- Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director-General Jose Mari Oquiñena called on student-leaders in Central Luzon to keep their hunger for learning despite attained successes. In a message during the awarding of the regional winners of 2013 Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) in Bacolor town, Oquiñena emphasized, “Life is a continuous journey of learning. What’s the point of waking up everyday if you don’t want to learn?” Oquiñen...
  • 32 deportees finish TESDA reflex massage training

    ZAMBOANGA CITY, April 26 (PIA) -- Thirty two Filipino deportees from Malaysia graduated from a three-day training course on reflexology massage under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). The activity was the initiative of Jamila Arasid, Center Head- Processing Center for Displaced Persons (PCDP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in partnership with TESDA. “We conducted the training para naman productive and stay nila dito at para na rin m...
  • DOLE to hold 16 job fairs in Metro Manila on Labor Day

    QUEZON CITY, April 26 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) is set to hold 16 job fairs in the National Capital Region (NCR) on May 1, Labor Day. The job fairs highlight the celebration of the 2013 Labor Day with a theme, "Manggagawang Pilipino: Handa sa Hamon ng Makabagong Panahon". Labor & Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, in a statement said that the celebration of Labor Day is a way to give tribute to the nation’s workers, in recognition of their significant contri...
  • IGaCoS, first Salintubig recipient

    ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL, April 26 (PIA) -- The city government of the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) received a P2-million grant from the Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig para sa Lahat (SALINTUBIG) Program of the national government identified as one of the priority areas for the Bottom- Up Planning and Budgeting Projects (BUPBP). The Salintubig program aims to provide sufficient and potable water to all the households in the barangay that anchored to the local poverty alleviation redu...
  • Maternal deaths seen to go down with ultrasound at health centers

    TAGUM CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE, April 26 (PIA) -- Maternal Mortality Rate in Mindanao is expected to go down with more rural health doctors trained to use the ultrasound for early detection of pregnancy complications. Department of Health Assistant Secretary Dr. Romulo Busuego shared this vision as he revealed the target of DOH to train about 100 rural health doctors to use the ultrasound in diagnosing complications of pregnancy. The DOH formally started rolling out the program Tuesday on...
  • Feature: Agtas say goodbye to nomadic way of life

    Ruben Sanchez, chieftain of the Agtas in Nagtipunan town considers himself and his fellow Agtas fortunate for receiving much attention from the government. "We are thankful to our government for mainstreaming the marginalized sector like the Agta tribe," Sanchez said adding that they would have been wandering from one place to another if not of the help of the government. Speaking in fluent Tagalog, Sanchez said they thought that they were heading the right way but they realized that they ...
  • DepEd to ‘redistribute’ teachers to address shortages and overcrowding

    PASIG CITY, April 25 -- The Department of Education has issued new guidelines for the equitable deployment of public school teachers to address teacher shortage and overcrowding in various parts of the country. DepEd Memorandum No. 22, series of 2013 sets the rules for deploying teachers in order to optimize student-teacher ratios nationwide, including cases when teachers can be reassigned to other schools. “We need to be able to transfer teachers from one station to another to address the p...
  • Livelihood beneficiaries to showcase, market products in Jobs fair

    ILOILO CITY, April 25 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-6) will showcase livelihood programs in the May 1 jobs fair. DOLE-6 Regional Assistant Director Salome Siaton said the May 1 event will also provide a venue to feature the products of the livelihood programs that DOLE-6 has provided for the informal sector workers for self-employment. “This will be an opportunity for these DOLE livelihood beneficiaries who have become self-employed to promote and market their prod...
  • Transport group to teach 4Ps beneficiaries driving skills

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 25 (PIA) -- Beneficiaries of the national government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) could soon learn how to drive as a means of living. Koronadal City-based United Transport Operators and Drivers Servicing Cooperative (UTODCO) has recently collaborated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 12 to assist recipients of the government’s conditional cash transfer in learning ...
  • DSWD urges LGUs to sustain interventions for 4Ps families

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 25 (PIA) -- Local government units should assure continuous assistance to the beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), an official of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Program. In a recent crafting the Municipal Transition Plan , DSWD 12 assistant regional director Gemma Rivera challenged LGUs to make sure that the current socio-economic conditions of the 4Ps families will continue to i...
  • OWWA-ODSP scholar graduates cum laude in Biliran

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 25 (PIA) -- A beneficiary of the OFW Dependents Scholarship Program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Agency graduated Cum Laude from the Naval State University in Naval, Biliran, Ms. Ma. Evangelina Filamor, Chief, Programs and Services Division of OWWA Region 8, said. Ms. Filamor identified the scholar as Zenaida R. Abrigo, sister of an OFW working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. She earned a degree in Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management w...
  • DSWD reiterates “Anti-Epal” campaign to political candidates

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, April 24 (PIA) – Despite massive information dissemination and warnings to political candidates, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 2 has received several complaints that some political candidates are utilizing and even harassing some beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilya Pilipino Program (4Ps). DSWD 2 Regional Director Violeta Cruz said they have recorded complaints from beneficiaries of the municipalities of Lasam, Sta Teresita and Ballesteros of...
  • DPWH-ARMM hires 400 part-time workers for summer job

    MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 25 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has hired 400 part-time workers for the agency’s summer job program this year. DPWH-ARMM Secretary Emil Sadain said the recruits, who are mostly students, will take part in the agency’s “Oplan Linis Bayan” Program, which includes the clean-up of major roads across the region. He said the program is meant to keep roads free from distraction...
  • DSWD Eastern Visayas intensifies IEC Campaign on Supplemental Feeding Program

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 25 (PIA) - The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Eastern Visayas has intensified its nformation, education and communication campaign on the government’s Supplemental Feeding Program. The DSWD will intensity the implementation of SFP particularly in the region where malnutrition is still prevalent based on the latest National Nutrition Survey conducted by Food And Nutrition Research Institute or FNRI, said Virginia Idano, SWD assistant regional direct...
  • DSWD provides P7.7 M worth of core shelter project for 110 families in Camarines Sur town

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 25 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol region released an additional P7.7 million fund for the construction of core shelter units that will benefit 110 families in Lagonoy, Camarines Sur. Bicol regional director Arnel Garcia of DSWD 5 said the family-beneficiaries were either found to be vulnerable to disaster or those who are up to the present are unable to restore their damaged houses. Garcia said each recipient received a check amounting t...
  • Makati residents, workers now entitled to subsidized medical care, hospitalization at Phl Heart Center

    MAKATI CITY, April 25 (PIA) -- Residents and government employees assigned in the city are now entitled to subsidized medical care and hospitalization at the Philippine Heart Center (PHC) after the local government entered into an agreement with the country’s leading provider of cardiovascular care recently. A Memorandum of Agreement signed by Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay and PHC Medical Director, Dr. Manuel Chua Chiaco, has entitled beneficiaries of the Makati Health Plus Program (Yel...
  • News feature: Celebrating lifelong learning of IPs in Davao del Norte

    TAGUM CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE April 24 (PIA) – Melecio Bustamante, 66, never thought that he would ever see the day that he will be able to read and write. Like many members of an indigenous people (IP) community in Tibulao, Carmen, this province, Bustamante never went to school and was deprived of acquiring basic literacy until two years ago. The elderly native basket-maker recounted how life was so difficult and sad at the time when he could not even write his name and count money. “...
  • Over 1.7M children to benefit from DSWD’s Supplementary Feeding

    MANILA, April 24 -- Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman today said that 1,755,034 children in 45,389 day care centers nationwide will benefit from the Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for school year 2013-2014. In the 2013 DSWD budget, it has allocated more than P2.9 billion for the program covering all 17 regions including the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Secretary Soliman explained that the SFP i...
  • SSS reaches out to informal sector

    DAVAO CITY, April 24 (PIA) -- The Social Security System (SSS) is reaching out to the informal sector with its unique AlkanSSSya program. The AlkanSSSya are specially made- cabinets installed in the workplaces of the informal sector like tricycle terminals, marketplaces which acts like piggy banks where workers can deposit about P10-P15 a day which pooled at the end of the month will be collected by the SSS. Their daily payment will be considered as their P312 monthly contribution for SSS cov...
  • New center in Taguig to offer high-tech skills training

    QUEZON CITY, April 24 -- A new training center designed to offer higher technology skills to Filipinos is now open, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority said. The Philippines-Korea Technological and Cooperation Center (KPTCC) in Bayani Road, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, which started operations on Monday, April 22 is envisioned to become the new hub for technical vocational education and training in the country. Secretary Joel Villanueva, TESDA director general, said the ...
  • Search for outstanding private employees launched in Dipolog

    DIPOLOG CITY, April 24 (PIA) -- The Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC) in partnership with the city government of Dipolog, Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) Zamboanga del Norte field office and sponsors from private sectors launched on Saturday the 2013 Search for Outstanding Employees in the private sector. The search seeks to recognize deserving workers in the city aimed at promoting strong morale and efficiency of workers. “We are here to recognize ordinary but important mem...
  • Southern Leyte jail inmates pass the A&E exam

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 24 (PIA) -- Five out of eleven Southern Leyte Provincial Jail inmates passed the Accreditation and Equivalency Test conducted by the Department of Education-Alternative Learning System (DepEd-ALS) late last year. Officer-in-charge Provincial Warden Joselito Magallanes said the A&E exam was conducted last December 9, 2012 at the provincial jail. One passer will be promoted to secondary level while the other four successfully passed the college level, the r...
  • More than 1.7M day care children to benefit from govt’s supplementary feeding program

    MANILA, April 24 (PIA) -- Around 1,755,034 children in 45,389 day care centers nationwide will benefit from the Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development for school year 2013-2014. In its 2013 DSWD budget, more than P2.9 billion has been allocated for the program covering all 17 regions including the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). In a statement, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman explained that the SFP is the prov...
  • Teachers to train for K to 12 curriculum

    ILOILO CITY, April 24 (PIA) --- The Department of Education Regional Office (DepEd 6) will conduct a mass training of teachers for the implementation of Grades 2 and 8 of the K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum. Dr. Novelyn M. Vilchez, Chief of the Training and Development Division of DepEd 6, said that this five-day live-in mass training of teachers is slated for the months of April and May. “The mass training of Grade 2 teachers shall be handled by the schools divisions while that of the ...
  • DSWD-4A disributes P3.8-M cash assistance to SEA-K members

    LUCBAN, Quezon, April 24 (PIA) --The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 4A distributed a total of P3,815,000 cash assistance to 64 members of Nagka 1 Yamang Kabuhayan SEA-Kabayan Inc. in this town last April 22. Chedita T. Lerum of DSWD-4A Lucena City extension office said the cash assistance is intended for various livelihood projects, home improvement and basic shelter construction of SEA-K member beneficiaries. The livelihood projects include hog raising, buy ...
  • TESDA extends support to Labor Day celebration in Caraga

    BUTUAN CITY, April 24 (PIA) – The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has extended its full support for the conduct of the 2013 Labor Day Celebration on May 1, 2013. Speaking before the local tri-media during the press conference on Tuesday in one of the local hotels here, TESDA Butuan City-Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Randy Devilla said that as attached agency of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), TESDA has been regularly coordinating with DOLE of...
  • PMA Yearlings wow Dabawenyos of their silent drill

    DAVAO CITY, April 24 (PIA) -- Ninety two cadets of the Philippine Military Academy Class 2016 started entertaining the city residents by performing silent drills as their primary activity during the Davao leg of their southern cruise at the open field of the University of Southeastern Philippines, Tuesday. 2Lt. Christin Joan Pamplona, community relations officer of the Task Force Davao said the cadets will also be performing 10 am and 2 pm in the cities of Panabo and Tagum, respectively on Ap...
  • NCCT identifies guides for appropriate TV shows for children

    SAN JOSE, Antique, April 24 (PIA) - Not all television shows are appropriate for children. This was emphasized by the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) to some 200 students and parents during the recent Consultative Forum on Children’s TV Standards 2013 held at the Evelio B. Javier Gymnasium, this municipality. NCCT Chairman Mag Cruz Hatol told the participants that television shows could influence children’s values as they grow up, thereby an appropriate standards dub...
  • Malacanang says Aquino government remains committed in providing jobs for Filipinos

    MANILA, April 24 -- The Aquino government remains focused on generating jobs for Filipinos in the urban areas and countryside in keeping with its goal to mitigate poverty, a Palace official said on Wednesday. Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the statement during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday following reports that the percentage of Filipinos living below the poverty line has remained almost unchanged in the past six years. "These are Year 2012 numbers, the...
  • Aquino warns politicians against using 4Ps to get votes

    MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 24 (PIA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III warned political candidates against using the Pantawid Pamilya Pilipino Program (4Ps) to force the beneficiaries program to vote for them. The warning was issued by the President during his meeting with local leaders and the community in the province on Monday. He stressed that 4Ps is a program of the national government being implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and whose beneficiar...
  • DSWD allots P165M for feeding program in Eastern Visayas

    TACLOBAN CITY, April 24 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the region has allocated P165 million the third cycle of its Supplemental Feeding Program. more than 110,000 children will be listed under the program this year—higher than last year’s 106,000, where they will be served “one hot meal” for 120 days, DSWD-8 Assistant Regional Director Virginia Idano said. The program aims to help not only malnourished children, but maintain the nutritional status of tho...
  • DSWD6 intensifies “Bawal Ang EPAL dito” drive

    ILOILO CITY, April 24 (PIA) - - The Department of Social Welfare and Development 6 (DSWD 6) is intensifying its “Bawal Ang EPAL dito” information campaign. The main message is that only the DSWD can delist a beneficiary from the Pantawid Pamilya Pilipino program. DSWD 6 Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre said they will come up with radio and TV plugs aside from the tarpaulins which are hung at the municipalities emphasizing the message during the meeting of the Regional Sub Committee for the We...
  • DSWD to implement SFP on July

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 24 (PIA) -- Children under the age of five in day care centers in Eastern Visayas will again be the beneficiary of the Supplemental Feeding Program (SFP) of the regional Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Vina Aquino, DSWD regional information officer disclosed that the social welfare office will implement the SFP on July this year. The department’s Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign launched the SFP April 23, at the Activity...
  • President Aquino leads groundbreaking of College of IT building in Marawi City

    MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 23 (PIA) --- President Benigno S. Aquino III led yesterday the ceremonial groundbreaking of the College of Information Technology (CIT) building of the Mindanao State University (MSU), here. The President was joined by MSU President Macapado Muslim, CHED Commissioner Ruperto Sangalang and ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman in the capsule laying rite that paves the way for the construction of the three-storey building. “Ang gusaling ito ay tagumpay hindi lamang ng M...
  • Feature: Going Beyond: A Mother’s Love

    She bags gravel and sand, shovels cement, mixes, pours, and spreads concrete. She smoothens and finishes freshly poured cement -- a whole new experience for a woman who persists despite life’s difficulties. Five months have passed since the day her husband abandoned them without any word. She now assumes the full parental responsibility over her sons performing both the roles of a mother and a father. “Pangarap ko para sa aking mga anak na makatapos ng pagaaral. Hanggat kaya, ikakayod ko ...
  • Former drug lair, now a promising livelihood area

    NAGA CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- Determined to remove the stigma attached to the Sitio Sagrada Familia’s reputation as “Shabu Tiangge,” Mayor John Bongat together with Naga City Police Office Director Abdulkadil Guialani recently launched a livelihood program for women. Bongat specifically asked the sitio’s residents to group themselves and work on the initial boneless bangus (milkfish) project as introduced by the city government. Thirty women underwent livelihood seminar through the as...
  • Pinoy diet low in zinc

    LOS BANOS, Laguna, April 23 (PIA) -- Zinc is one of the essential minerals because of its importance in approximately 100 enzyme activities that support the many body processes. Considered an ubiquitous and versatile trace element, zinc has varied supporting roles in the epidermal, gastrointestinal, central nervous, immune, skeletal, and reproductive systems. Zinc is needed for a healthy immune system, synthesis of DNA, wound healing, and growth and development in children, adolescents, and ...
  • Catanduanes hosts seminar on children’s rights and child abuse prevention

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- The Catanduanes Police Provincial Officer (CPPO) and the Regional Women and Children’s Protection Desk (DESK) spearheaded a two-day seminar on Children’s rights and child sexual abuse prevention on April 15-16 at the CPPO conference hall. Aimed at strengthening the capability of police officers in dealing with abuses against women and children, Nancyline P. Agaid, senior trainer and advocacy officer of Stairway Foundation, discussed the duties and responsibi...
  • CHED opens scholarship program for SY 2013-2014

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has invited anew qualified students to avail of the three types of financial grants for incoming college students under its Student Financial Assistance Program (StuFAP) this 2013-2014. Education program specialist Cyril Badiola of CHED said the program is comprised of the Full or Half Merit, Grant-in-Aid, and Student Loan. Badiola explained that scholarship of full merit is for poor but deserving Filipino students whos...
  • PNoy cites programs to strengthen country’s education system

    MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 23 (PIA) -- President Aquino on Monday cited some of the government programs which aims to strengthen the education system in the country. In his keynote speech during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Mindanao State University’s (MSU) College of Information Technology (CIT) building, the President said the government has launched the K+12 program to ensure that the Filipino youth can keep up with the graduates of other countries. He also said his administr...
  • DSWD-7, Dauin LGU turn over day care center thru CDD technology

    CEBU CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Local Government Unit of Dauin in Negros Oriental turned over recently to the community a day care centre through the Community-Driven Development (CDD) technology. The day care center was set up in Barangay Libjo, Dauin. CDD harnesses the potential of people in the barangay to analyze their situations, identify their problems and issues in their communities and propose small-scale projects. CDD is ...
  • BSP to hold “Financial Learning Campaign” for overseas Filipinos, beneficiaries

    QUEZON CITY, April 23 (PIA) --To help overseas Filipinos and to encourage the flow of remittances into productive activities, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will conduct a Financial Learning Campaign (FLC). The campaign entitled “Paghahanda sa Kinabukasan” will be conducted at the Assembly Hall of the BSP main office in Manila on Wednesday, April 24. The FLC is aimed at educating participants particularly Filipinos who work in the foreign land and their families to save and use the ...
  • DOLE, TIPC hold consultations on IRR for ‘Batas Kasambahay’

    DUMAGUETE CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC) of Negros Oriental has initiated a “Town Hall” type of consultations on the proposed Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Kasambahay Bill. TIPC Vice Chairperson for the management section, Derek Erames, said this type of consultation encourages people to partake on their advocacy of providing rights and privileges to helpers who are employed and are working w...
  • Cash incentives await Palaro gold medalists and record breakers

    QUEZON CITY, April 23 -- The Department of Education has released the guidelines in the giving of cash incentives to athletes who win gold medals or break records in the on-going 2013 Palarong Pambansa in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. Individual athletes who win an official 2013 Palarong Pambansa gold medal shall be entitled to a P3,000 cash reward. For gold medalists in team events that have less than five members, each member shall also receive P3,000. In team events that have more than ...
  • 351 voctech scholars, students pass TESDA competency assessment, got national certifications in Southern Leyte

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 23 (PIA) -- With an average of rating of 98 percent, 351 voctech skills trainees passed the three sets of compentency assessment exams conducted by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Southern Leyte in the first quarter this year. TESDA Provincial Office Administrative Officer V Jocelyn Gidal, who is also the designated Information Officer, said “351 out of 354 voctech trainees/students passed the competency assessments cond...
  • DOST launches STARBOOKS in Negros Oriental

    DUMAGUETE CITY, April 23 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Negros Oriental launched STARBOOKS (Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Stations) and has inked Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with three local government units in Negros Oriental recently. Administrative STARBOOKS coordinator and Science Research Specialist II, Annie Lyn Bacani explained that STARBOOKS is the newest project of DOST’s Science and Technology Information ...
  • Bikers campaign against human trafficking, call for more bike lanes

    ILOILO CITY, April 23 (PIA) – Some 400 bikers took to the road last Saturday to raise awareness on the evils of human trafficking, even as they called for a more bike-friendly city. The “Freedom Ride 2013” was organized by Dakila, a group of students, artists, writers to promote the 1343 Actionline, a 24-hour hotline established by the Commission on Filipino Overseas to help human trafficking victims. The Iloilo Folding Bike Riders said they noted the participation of children and senior...
  • Search is on for outstanding workers in Dipolog City

    DIPOLOG CITY, April 22 (PIA) -- The Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC)-Dipolog City together with the city government of Dipolog and the Department of Labor and Employment-Zamboanga del Norte (DOLE-ZN) field office launched on Saturday the “2013 Search for Most Outstanding Workers in the Private Sector” of this city. The search, which gives due recognition to workers with exemplary performance is open to all legitimate employees of private companies, establishments and schools in ...
  • Tabuk City rural health center offers free new born screening to indigent mothers

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 22 (PIA) -– The city rural health center offers free New Born Screening (NBS) test to newborns of Pantawid mothers and those with sponsored PhilHealth coverage. Rhea Barcellano of Tabuk City Health Office (CHO) said the free NBS is part of the city’s program on early detection and prevention of congenital diseases. In line with the program, the CHO is up with its advocacy urging newly delivered mothers including those giving birth at home, to bring their infants ...
  • OWWA-12 gathers scholars for a two-day conference

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 22 (PIA) -- Driven by a strong urge to help scholars improve their individual academic performances and personality, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) 12 gathered its educational program beneficiaries in a conference at EMR Center, Koronadal City on April 18 and 19. Seventy scholars from the entire region participated in the event: 12 from North Cotabato, 19 from Sarangani and General Santos, 5 from Sultan Kudarat, and 33 from South C...
  • 16 inmates receive diplomas from DepEd’s alternative learning system

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 22 (PIA) -- Prison cells did not deter the 16 inmates in South Cotabato’s detention facility to earn their education. On Friday, eight detainees of the South Cotabato Rehabilitation and Detention Center (SCRDC) here received their diplomas for completing elementary while eight other inmates received diploma or high school under the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System (ALS). “I never ...
  • DepEd, NegOr promise a more value-laden Palarong Pambansa

    QUEZON CITY, April 22 -- Anchored on this year’s Palarong Pambansa theme, “Sports: Road to Peace and Progress,” the Department of Education and the Provincial Government of Negros Oriental vow to put more emphasis on the values the national sports competition can instill to participating athletes. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro said that the 2013 Palarong Pambansa offers many firsts – highlighting what sports can do in unifying people and achieving peace and progress. “This...
  • DSWD IV-B urges stakeholders to share data

    MANILA, April 22 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development - Mimaropa urges stakeholders to enter into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on data sharing and use of its NHTSPR data on poor households in identifying beneficiaries of their social protection programs. The system for data sharing is the last phase of the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTSPR) cycle where the generated data may be made available to various stakeholders such as national gove...
  • Valenzuela equips its BHWs with health kits

    QUEZON CITY, April 22 (PIA) -- The Valenzuela City government has turned over the first 100 health “compendium” or health kits to Barangay Health Worker (BHW). The health kits will be used in monitoring and recording the health of city residents. In a statement, Valenzuela City Mayor Sherwin Gatchalian said that around 316 healthworkers serve as front liners in bringing primary medical attention to the 44 barangays of the city. Gatchalian said each Barangay Health Worker in Valenzuela ...
  • TESDA 12 to conduct skills training in 5 CCT areas

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 22 (PIA) –- More income-generation and employment opportunities are being offered to Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiearies in Soccsksargen Region. Zeus Ampuyas, regional director of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) 12, said the agency will provide technical vocational education in May to recipients of the national government’s conditional cash transfer. Ampuyas said priority for the ...
  • DOLE 3 invites repatriates, fresh college grads to 2013 Labor Day job fairs in CL

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga April 22 (PIA) -- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office 3 is inviting repatriated workers from the Middle East, fresh college graduates and other jobseekers to attend the government-sponsored 111th Labor Day job fairs in Central Luzon on May 1. DOLE regional director Raymundo Agravante said thousands of local and overseas careers in business process outsourcing, retail, service and manufacturing industries are up for grabs in these employment f...
  • DepEd-Ozamiz to build 18 classrooms this year

    OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, April 22 (PIA) -- At least 18 classrooms in areas experiencing shortage within the Ozamiz City Schools Division is being proposed this year. City Division Superintendent Rebonfamil A. Baguio said the proposed amount is P20.8 million to include the cost of hauling of materials, site improvement and construction of the following: Two-storey, four (4)-classroom building at the Ozamiz City National High School (OCNHS), P4.847 million and at the Ozamiz City Schoo...
  • Expect a cleaner, greener 2013 Palarong Pambansa

    QUEZON CITY, April 21 -- Expect the 2013 Palarong Pambansa in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental to be cleaner and greener than ever as the Department of Education adds new eco-friendly highlights this year. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro directed all Palaro officials, athletes and school administrators to promote environmentally-sound practices which optimize the utilization of resources while protecting the environment during the week-long Palaro. “Every staging of the Palaro should be...
  • 1st Bahay Pag-asa in Cordillera inaugurated in Abra

    BANGUED, Abra, April 21 (PIA) -- Secretary Corazon J. Soliman of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) inaugurated here the first Bahay Pag-asa established in the Cordillera Region during her visit to the province last week. The Bahay Pag-asa located at Brgy. Calaba, Bangued is a 24-hour residential facility that provides temporary care and serves as a rehabilitation center for male disadvantaged children aged 15 years old and below, particularly those regarded as Children...
  • Bohol to host ASEAN cyberporno, prostitution gab

    BOHOL, April 21 (PIA) –The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) in Central Visayas brings to Bohol, 11 ASEAN countries representatives for its 2nd Conference on Working toward a Cyber Pornography and Cyber Prostitution-Free Southeast Asia on April 23-25 at Bohol Tropics in Tagbilaran City. DSWD7 information officer Jaybee Binghay said the Bohol conference is an offshoot of the ASEAN first conference in Manila in June 2012 that tackled the dynamics and realities of cyber porno...
  • Ifugao Nutrition evaluation team starts Green Banner search

    TINOC, Ifugao, April 21 (PIA) -- The Provincial Nutrition Evaluation Team (PNET) is now conducting municipal evaluation of local program initiatives (MELPI) for Green Banner Award (GBA) for the the most outstanding nutrition program implementer. Led by the Provincial Nutrition Office (PNO), the PNET has already finished evaluating the municipalities of Asipulo, Kiangan, Lamut and Tinoc. Dr. Mary Josephine Dulawan, Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (PNAO), said the MELPI evaluation i...
  • Philhealth defers issuance of IPCs for individual paying members

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 20 (PIA) -- The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) has defered the implementation of Individual Policy Contract (IPC) for individually paying members (IPMs). The deferment was contained in Philhealth Advisory number 03-04-2013, stating that “in recognition of the need for program enhancements, the Philhealth management has resolved to defer the issuance of the IPC for the Individually Paying Program.” But the same advisory, signed by A...
  • Butuan studes wins anti-drug video contest

    DAVAO CITY, April 20 -- A production team composed of students from Fr. Saturnino Urios University in Butuan City copped the grand prize in the first Kontra : 1st Mindanao anti-drug TV Advertisement Contest organized by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency. Their 45-seconder TV advertisement entitled “Chicken” shows a young man experiencing hallucinations while dining with his friends. The video which creatively reveals the hallucinatory effects of drug abuse was adjudged as the best ent...
  • DOST launches Starbooks in Romblon

    by Micah Fabriquel ODIONGAN, Romblon, April 20 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has launched the Starbooks Program recently in the province. Starbooks is the first Philippine Science Digital Library developed by the Science and Technology Information Institute (STII). This program aims to help communities to develop their knowledge and skills in science and technology and easily access these as information resources. DOST Starbooks aims to raise the interest of Filip...
  • All systems go for DepEd's Palarong Pambansa in Negros Oriental

    NEGROS ORIENTAL, April 20 (PIA) -- All systems go for the Palarong Pambansa in Negros Oriental from April 21-27. With the tagline, “One Palaro, One NegOr Together We Can” the Department of Education (DepEd) enjoins all Negrenses to come and participate in its attempt to break the Guiness Book of Records for the largest human peace sign which will be the main highlight of the Palarong Pambansa during the closing ceremonies on April 27, 2013. According to Media Relations Officer Adolf Aguila...
  • MUST supports Pantawid Pamilya to boost education

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 20 (PIA) -- The Guidance Office of Mindanao State University of Science and Technology (MUST) Main Campus here is calling students under Students Grant-Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation (SGP-PA) to follow-up their enrollment for the upcoming school year. This after MUST through the guidance counselor is stepping its monitoring on the college scholars of the SGP-PA which aims to increase number of graduates in higher education among poor households, and to get these ...
  • DOH-CHD gives free immunization for influenza and pneumonia

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 18 (PIA) -- The Center for Health Development (CHD) of the Department of Health (DOH) in Bicol provided free immunization for influenza and pneumonia to indigent senior citizens in this city yesterday. Dr. Gloria J. Balboa, DOH Bicol regional director, said the activity formed part of the series of vaccination drives across the region to boost immune system and resistance against influenza and pneumococcal infections of the elderly in the region. The DOH Bicol, according t...
  • NAPC workshop tackles mainstreaming of CCT beneficiaries to commercial value chain of agri products in East Samar

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, April 19 (PIA) -- The National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) under the Office of the President conducted a two-day workshop on April 16-17, 2013 at the Governor’s Conference Hall, Capitol Building this city. The workshop was entitled: Multi-Stakeholders in mainstreaming the poor especially the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) beneficiaries to the commercial value chain of coconut and other high value agricultural products in Eastern Samar. The objectives of thi...
  • Nutrition council calls on concerned agencies to help alleviate hunger

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 19 (PIA) --The Regional Nutrition Council (RNC)12 is urging concerned agencies to help make Soccsksargen a hunger-free region. The call was emphasized during the recent held RNC second quarter meeting in Koronadal City, South Cotabato wherein data show that there is still a large population of malnourished children in Region 12. RNC 12 chairperson Dr. Marlyn Convocar said when agencies coordinate with one another, health activities will be harmonized which...
  • Butuan Youth Dev’t Council hosts training on public speaking

    BUTUAN CITY, April 19 (PIA) -- The Local Youth Development Council (LYDC) here is leading today’s "Communication Skills Workshop: A Training on Public Speaking" with the members of the Regional Youth Advisory Council (RYAC) from government agencies and partner stakeholders at the Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city. Said training is facilitated by the office of the city mayor’s in coordination with Toastmasters International which is composed of Butuan City, Cagayan de Or,o and Iligan...
  • DOH-NCR reiterates warning versus dengue

    QUEZON CITY, April 19 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) cautioned the public again on the dangers of dengue as death toll from the disease hits seven during the first quarter of 2013. “We have to be reminded that dengue is perennial throughout the year, even during these very hot season, dengue-carrying mosquitoes are still very much present in our surroundings," Dr. Eduardo C. Janairo, DOH-National Capital Region director, said. "That is why we must be vigilant and continually conduc...
  • Kalinga health office bares Garantisadong Pambata targets this April

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 19 (PIA) -- The Kalinga Provincial Health Office (PHO) recently disclosed its targets for the 2013 Garantisadong Pambata Program this April. Provincial Nutritionist Officer Frances Sebastian said the targets are 28,455 children from six to 59 months for the Vitamin A supplementation and 60,069 children from six to 71 months for deworming dosage. Health workers in the province are now implementing the mandatory immunization, deworming, and Vitamin A supplementation ...
  • Consultations on children's TV programs set

    SAN JOSE, Antique, April 19 (PIA) -- The National Council for Children's Television (NCCT) has scheduled a Consultative Forum on the Children's TV Standards 2013 come April 22 here at the EBJ Gymnasium, Binirayan Hills, San Jose to discuss Republic Act 8370 or the Children's Television Act of 1997. In a letter sent to stakeholders by the office of the governor, it states that as the country becomes mired in elections, our children are usually relegated to the sidelights. Thus, the National Coun...
  • DepEd prepares “Balik Eskwela” for SY 2013-2014

    QUEZON CITY, April 19 -- The Department of Education will set into motion Operation Balik Eskwela (OBE) for school year 2013-2014 on May 27 to 31. It will also set up the Public Assistance Station (PAS) on June 1 to 8 to ensure the smooth opening of classes when school year 2013-2014 starts in June, DepEd said in a statement. The annual OBE and PAS address the problems that usually crop up during school opening and see to it that school children are in their respective classrooms and buckli...
  • CSC conducts gender sensitivity training

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 19 (PIA) -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) ran a one-day gender sensitivity seminar here in Pearlmont Inn Cagayan de Oro City, Thursday. The orientation covered basic concepts of sex and gender and practical exercises such as the “Sapot ng Gagamba” (spider’s web - identifying gender related issues and problems), “Pitik Palak” (click and clap- to determine participants concept about men and women), and the “Masali” (acronym for magulang, salinlahi, an...
  • N. Cotabato's Summer Kids Peace Camp goes to Kabacan town

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 19 (PIA) -- Grade 5 pupils from different elementary schools in Kabacan, North Cotabato participated in this year’s Summer Kids Peace Camp which started on Tuesday, April 16. The camp, which gathered Muslim, Christian, and Lumad children was held at Kabacan Pilot Elementary School, the largest elementary school in the said town. According to the organizer of the said camp, like in other municipalities, the event in Kabacan also run for three days. The a...
  • GSIS conducts dialogue

    MANILA, April 19 (PIA) -- Government Service Insurance System officials led a stakeholders' dialogue attended by about 400 members and pensioners recently. "We made three promises to our stakeholders from the very beginning - to be more consultative, transparent and service-focused," GSIS Chairman Daniel Lacson Jr. said. "Your inputs will guide the Board in revisiting our policies and programs to provide you accessible and responsive service," he said. In November 2010, just a few months int...
  • Dagupan waste management workers must be given hazard pay

    DAGUPAN CITY, Apr 19 (PIA) -- Given the nature of their work, the city’s waste management division (WMD) workers should be entitled to a hazard pay, the division’s chief officer said. Teddy Villamil Jr., WMD chief, said workers under the division perform jobs ranging from street sweeping, garbage collection, recycling and maintenance of the controlled dumpsite. “Owing to the nature of their jobs, they should be considered health workers and entitled to a hazard pay,” he said. Villami...
  • Kiangan holds Disaster Management and Environmental Kid’s Camp

    KIANGAN, Ifugao, April 19 (PIA) -- A two-day “Disaster Risk Reduction Management and Environmental Kids’ Camp" was held April 10 and 11 at the Kiangan Central School compound here that will teach children how to protect the environment, and even how to manage and preserve it. The activity was participated by 500 Kiphodan Child Fund (KCF) members and staff, program support partners, parents, facilitators, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) personnel, and barangay and mu...
  • DTI 12 to help 4Ps families build businesses

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 19 (PIA) -- Beneficiaries of the national government’s Conditional Cash Transfer are assured of assistance from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). DTI 12 regional director Ibrahim Guiamadel recently confirmed their agency’s commitment to teach CCT recipients how to put but their own businesses. The commitment came after the call of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 12 ...
  • UN group cites gains on women, child health & nutrition

    SAN JOSE, Antique, April 19 (PIA) -- The town of Sibalom was selected by a team from United Nations Children’s Fund for a Midterm visit on their program Maternal and Young Child Nutrition Security Initiative in Asia (MYCNSIA) on Wednesday. Annemarie Hoogendorn, Nutrition Specialist was commissioned by UNICEF for the said undertaking in Western Visayas. With her are Dr. Anthony Redaniel, MYCNSIA Regional Coordinator and Nona Tad-y, Regional Nutrition Coordinator. The Municipal Nutrition Com...
  • DOST Calabarzon fetes young science and math achievers

    LOS BANOS, Laguna, April 19 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Calabarzon has hosted the 2013 Youth Excellence in Science (YES) Awards at its Regional Food Safety Quality Assurance Center Multipurpose Hall in Los Banos, Laguna. The DOST, through the Science Education Institute (SEI), has institutionalized a recognition system in motivating young achievers to strive for excellence in the fields of science and mathematics. Thirty-one students from 19 public and private elem...
  • 392 East Visayas athletes to vie in 2013 Palarong Pambansa

    GOVERNMENT CENTER, Palo, Leyte, April 19 (PIA) -- Eastern Visayas is sending 302 athletes to vie for medals at the 2013 Palarong Pambansa, the Department of Education here said. DepEd Region 8 Director Luisa Bautista-Yu said athletes have left the region for Dumaguete, Negros Oriental which is the site of this year’s Palarong Pambansa that will open on April 21 at the Gov. Mariano Perdices Sports Complex and will go on until April 27. Director Yu said that of the total number of Eastern Vi...
  • 418 pass A&E exam in Ifugao

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, April 18 (PIA) -- More than half of the examinees who took the Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) test last December 2, 2012 passed the examination administered by the Department of Education (DEPED) under its Bureau of Alternative Learning System (BALS) program. Ifugao BALS Provincial Coordinator Arsenio Yongoyong said that 418 out of 831 or 50.30% of the examinees successfully hurdled the exam. He added that the result which was released earlier this month shows that 20...
  • Graduate scholarships available at DOST-SEI

    PALO, Leyte, April 19 (PIA) – Scholarships for Master’s and Doctorate degrees in priority Science and Technology areas are now available at the DOST-Science Education Institute. Department of Science and Technology Region 8 Director Edgardo Esperancilla said that the scholarships are made available with the implementation of the Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program. The Program, Director Esperancilla said, aims to help improve the country’s global competi...
  • PNoy praises country’s social workers

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 19 (PIA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III on Wednesday, April 17, praised the county’s social workers for their vital contribution to uplift the lives of their countrymen. “Indeed this group is a source of courage and strength for many of our people, especially the marginalized sector, in extending counsels and social support as they face life challenges,” President Aquino said in a message to the participants in the 17th National Social Welfare and Development Forum...
  • Micro, small establishments under TAV in Sogod vow to correct wages and other deficiencies

    SOGOD, Southern Leyte, April 19 (PIA) – Under the Training and Advisory Visit (TAV) program of the Department of Labor and Employment, the thirty employers who participated the activity have six months to one year to undertake all the corrections on all the deficiencies in the Labor Standards, Labor Extension Officer III Neil Moraleta disclosed in a press statement sent to PIA-Maasin. Moraleta quoted DOLE-Southern Leyte Provincial Head Fe Norma Valuis as saying that the said approach is taken...
  • DSWD holds conference with civil society organizations

    ZAMBOANGA CITY, April 19 -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has organized a three-day conference with civil society organizations (CSOs) from Regions 9, 12 and ARMM to discuss topics on Commission on Audit (COA) Rules /Reportorial requirements on Fund transfers, DSWD Policies and Social Protection programs were tackled. One of the issues discussed during the forum, was how they could help assist the government in helping those returning Filipinos affected by the Sabah C...
  • PSWDO slates workshop on creative writing and wellness grooming for Kiangan barangay workers

    KIANGAN, Ifugao, April 19 (PIA) -- The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office in coordination with the local government of this town scheduled a two-day “Seminar Workshop on Creative Writing and Wellness Grooming” for day care workers (DCWs), barangay nutrition scholars (BNS), barangay health workers (BHWs), parent leaders and parent support partners here. Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office Head Celestina Talosig said the training set on April 17 and 18, was conc...
  • DSWD-7 gathers NegOr info officers for CDD

    CEBU CITY, April 18 (PIA) --- Information Officers (IOs) from 11 towns in Negros Oriental recently gathered in Dumaguete City for an advocacy planning workshop for communication strategies on how to promote anti-poverty projects. The workshop was held by Department of Social and Welfare Development (DSWD-7) with the aim of promoting the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Integrated and Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Project. Durin...
  • DavNor public high school student to join int’l science fair

    DAVAO DEL NORTE, April 18 (PIA) -- One of the seven Filipino high school student participants to the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) hails from Panabo City, Davao del Norte. Judel Jay A. Tabsing, a 16-year old- fourth- year- high-school student of the Panabo National High School will join six other Filipino high school students to the Intel ISEF which will be held in Phoenix Convention Center, Arizona, U.S.A. on May 12 to 17. Other Filipino contingent members to the ...
  • DSWD, DepEd: ‘No child will be left behind’

    QUEZON CITY, April 18 -- Every child in the Philippines will now have the chance to be schooled. This is the vision of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Department of Education (DepEd) as they launch Kariton Klasrum with the theme “Katropa, Edukasyon at Kalusugan Mo’y Sagot ko! Sakay na sa Kariton ng Pagbabago!” today in Ultra Sports Complex, Pasig City. More than 200 children will be attending the said event to celebrate the start of the drive and to witness the sy...
  • Golf club workers start SSS savings under AlkanSSSya program

    QUEZON CITY, April 18 -- The Social Security System (SSS) broadened further the reach of its innovative microsavings scheme called "AlkanSSSya," as it now covers golf caddies and self-employed workers who serve members and clients of an elite golf club in Calatagan, Batangas province. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. in a statement said the agency’s newest AlkanSSSya partner is the Samahan ng mga Caddy sa Calatagan Golf Club, Inc. (SCSCGCI). The association has...
  • International Organization for Migration supports ‘Tindog ComVal’ Movement

    COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE,April 18 (PIA) -- The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has affirmed its support to the “Tindog Compostela Valley Movement,” by facilitating the construction of 300 houses for the homeless victims of typhoon Pablo. Rizalino “Jorie” de los Santos IOM Provincial Coordinator said the IOM is committed to finish 110 houses apportioned to: New Bataan- 42 units; Compostela- 46 units and; Montevista- 22 units. Construction of other houses are still ...
  • DWSD inks MOA with UPFI to implement modified conditional cash transfer in 5 LGUs

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Central Office inked a partnership with a non-government organization, United People of FOBI, Inc (UPFI) for the implementation of the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer (MCCT) program in four municipalities and the City of Maasin. UPFI Program Coordinator Sofie Pono said “as an accredited non-government organization with the DSWD based in Maasin City, we will implement the MCCT program a...
  • 1,584 SPES pledges up in Southern Leyte this year – DOLE SoLeyte

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Provincial Office here has allocated P2.165 million for their 40 percent salary counterpart in the payment of 1,584 beneficiaries of the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) this year. “There are 29 local government units, academe and private establishments who committed to hire students starting the month of January until December this year since the SPES can be availed by the stude...
  • Aklan SPES now ongoing

    KALIBO, Aklan, April 18 (PIA) -- The 765 students in Aklan who have been hired for 20 or more working days under the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) have started rendering duties, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) here. DOLE-Aklan Provincial Head Vidiolo Salvacion said the students were deployed to different local government units and colleges in Aklan. For this year’s SPES implementation, 15 local government units including the Provincial Gover...
  • DOLE-Kalinga awaits Comelec hiring ban exemption for SPES

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 18 (PIA) - - Employment of students under the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) will start as soon as the Commission on Elections (Comelec) issues an exemption order from the election hiring ban. Alexander Gumabol, provincial officer of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) provincial office, here said they are awaiting the exemption order from Comelec. “We hope Comelec would issue the order before May so that students could work fo...
  • 2,000 studes hired for SPES program in Zamboanga City

    ZAMBOANGA CITY, April 17 (PIA) - - Close to 2,000 college students were recently hired by the city government for the first batch for 2013 summer job program or the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES). Sheila Covarrubias, information officer, said the SPES beneficiaries had their orientation and oath taking last week where Mayor Celso Lobregat called on the beneficiaries, “To put to heart the oath of office they swore to follow as city government employees specifically on th...
  • CSC conducts seminar to retiring employees

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 17 (PIA) -- Here's what every government Human Resource Division should be doing for its retiring empoyess. The Civil Service Commission - Region 10 (CSC-10) has initiated today, here in the city, the conduct of a two-day seminar for retirees. This is part of CSC’s pre-retirement program which targets retirees, or those planning to retire within five years. Human Resource Management Officers (HRMOs), administrative officers, and other interested government employe...
  • People need shift in mindset on maternal health

    BAGUIO CITY, April 17 (PIA) -- There is a need to change people's mindset with regards to maternal health--that is, from giving birth at home to using health facility to protect mother and baby from potential dangers. Department of Health – Cordillera (DOH-CAR) Medical Officer IV Dr. Nicolas Gordo. said this shift in mindset is needed in the Cordillera region to achieve the Millennium Development Goal on maternal health. Gordo said maternal mortality in the Cordillera is continuously...
  • DepEd releases new set of Alternative Delivery module in CL

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, April 17 (PIA) -- Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday released its new set of module that will be used by public elementary pupils in Central Luzon as an alternative to the formal education classroom setting. “The Alternative Delivery Mode – Modified In School Off School Approach or ADM-MISOSA is designed to address the issue on congestion and to help pupils who are enrolled but are habitual/seasonal absentee, living in disaster prone areas, chronicall...
  • Philhealth discusses stricter measures against fraudulent claims with stakeholders

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 17 (PIA)-- The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC) or Philhealth here has gathered multi-sectoral representatives and stakeholders to a forum where the agency presented its more stringent measures against fraudulent claims by some unscrupulous hospitals and doctors. The forum, held at the Sarangani Highlands Garden and Restaurant in General Santos City on April 11, was the third such multi-sectoral ga...
  • DOH pours in P587-M infra assistance to health facilities in Northern Mindanao

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 17 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) has approved a total of P578 million funding assistance for the enhancement of several hospitals, rural health units (RHUs) and barangay health stations (BHS) in Northern Mindanao. The DOH Region 10 Health Facility Enhancement Unit announced this in a media conference on Friday. Luis Simbajon of the DOH Health Facility Enhancement Program explained that the approved projects were culled from the Health Investment Plan sub...
  • DOLE holds consultation on Batas Kasambahay

    PAGADIAN CITY, April 17 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Zamboanga del Sur Field Office conducted a multi-stakeholders consultation on the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No 10361, otherwise known as “Domestic Workers Act” or “Batas Kasambahay” yesterday at Chandler Suites this city. RA 10361 is a new law instituting policies for the protection and welfare of domestic workers which was signed into law by President Benigno S. Aquino III on...
  • DSWD-Kalinga invites dependents of former rebels to apply for scholarship

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 17 (PIA) -– The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) has opened scholarship application to dependents of former rebels for school year 2013-2014. The educational support to children of rebels who returned to the fold of the law is jointly sponsored by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Office of Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) under President Benigno C. Aquino’s Enhanced Re-integration Program. The scholarship provide...
  • DepEd creates task force to protect teachers for the May polls

    QUEZON CITY, April 17 -- The Department of Education has created an Election Task Force (ETF) Operation Center at its Central Office in Pasig to ensure full support to teachers who will serve as members of the Board of Election Inspectors for the 2013 national and local elections. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro has designated Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Atty. Alberto Muyot as Chair of the Steering Committee, a statement from the DepEd said. The ETF will ensure that teachers are pr...
  • AlkanSSSya program to be implemented in Leyte

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 17 (PIA) -- The Social Security System will launch its AlkanSSSya program in Carigara town, Leyte province, to entice informal workers, private company employees and self-employed individuals to enroll in the government –owned insurance system. Pedicab drivers who are members of a drivers association in the town are the target workers for enrollment in the project. Emilio De Quiros, Jr., SSS president and CEO, during his recent visit to Tacloban City, explained...
  • TESDA-Ifugao graduates 53 4Ps beneficiaries

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, April 17 (PIA)-- Fifty three (53) beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) completed a training courses at the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Training Center in Barangay Awao, this municipality. The 53 who received their certificates and diplomas last April 12 during their graduation ceremony, constitute the first batch of 4Ps beneficiaries trained by TESDA. Thirty-six finished the Carpentry course while 17 complete...
  • CHED-2 announces 5 overly-subscribed courses in Region 2

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, April 17 (PIA) – The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) said five courses are over-subscribed in the higher education institutions in Cagayan Valley Region. These courses include information technology, teacher education, business and accountancy, hotel and restaurant management, and nursing, Rey S. Tabao of the CHED Technical Services Division said. The findings was based on the validation and assessment conducted on tertiary schools. Tabao urged incoming first college ...
  • DA beefs up capability of food terminal operators

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 17 (PIA) -- Operators of Barangay Food Terminals (BFT) across Soccsksargen Region were recently gathered for meeting and planning sessions intended to improve management of the facilities as business investments. The three-day activity held at Durian Garden in Polomolok town last week was led by the Department of Agriculture – Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) – 12. In attendance were barangay and m...
  • BJMP makes innovations in jail management

    ILOILO CITY, April 16 (PIA) -- Various district jails under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Region 6 are introducing innovations in jail management to strengthen the welfare programs for the inmates and improve existing jail facilities to provide them a home-like atmosphere. Jail Chief Inspector Gilbert Peremne, warden of the Bacolod City District Jail Male Dormitory, said they will launch the "e-dalaw" or the electronic dalaw (visit) that will allow inmates to use their computer...
  • DOLE lines up 4 Job fairs

    ILOILO CITY, April 16 (PIA6) -- Job seekers are invited to the job fairs that will be conducted in the city and province of Iloilo and Guimaras this month of April. DOLE Iloilo and Guimaras Field Office Head Melissa Navarra said there are four job fairs lined up for the month of April in the two provinces including the Labor Day job fair on May 1. The job fairs will be held on the following dates and venues: April 16 at the Guimaras Provincial Gym in line with the province’s Ma...
  • PhilHealth promotes mass membership registration via iGroup

    BAGUIO CITY, April 16 (PIA) - - The Philippine Health Insurance Corp or PhilHealth, in line with the government’s goal of Universal Health Care which aims to provide access to quality health care to every Filipino family especially to the poor, calls on cooperatives and other organized groups to register their members under its iGroup program. PhilHealth Cordillera Regional Information Officer Magnolia Del Rosario, in a media forum here last week, disclosed that iGroup is an enhanced group...
  • DSWD head visits Tineg; reiterates politics cannot meddle in 4Ps

    BANGUED, Abra, April 16 (PIA) -- Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon J. Soliman emphasized anew that politics must not meddle with the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). “Ang tumutukoy sa beneficiary ng 4ps ay hindi si mayor, si governor, o si congressman. Nanggagaling ang criteria sa NHTSPR. Hindi napo-politika ang Pantawid.” (The beneficiaries of 4Ps are not recommended by the mayor, the governor, or the congressman. The NHTSPR (National Household fo...
  • Info drive for Kasambahay Law underway in Bicol

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 16 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional office here has stepped up massive information campaign for the Batas Kasambahay in Bicol’s six provinces starting today. DOLE Bicol regional Director Nathaniel V. Lacambra said the Batas Kasambahay information drive intends to solicit views, issues and concerns about the law in preparation for crafting the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) expected to be out in time for the celebration of Labor Day...
  • SSS urges members to avail of educational aid

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 16 (PIA) -- Officials of the Social Security System (SSS) are encouraging members to avail of financial assistance for college or vocational technical education. Redentor Viola, manager of the SSS Koronadal Branch, said that through the SSS Educational Assistance (Educ-Assist) Loan Program, they could provide matriculation assistance to at least 1,000 students per semester. However, he said, only over 300 indiv...
  • 161 kids in Camarines Sur town benefit from feeding program

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 16 (PIA) -- One hundred sixty-one (161) school children from Barangay Daculang Tubig in San Fernando, Camarines Sur will benefit from the three-month supplemental feeding program sponsored by the Philippine Goodworks Mission Foundation, regional office of the social welfare department and the municipal government of San Fernando, Camarines Sur . Bicol regional director Arnel Garcia of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) with San Fernando Mayor Eugenio...
  • DOST to hold Regional SME Tech Congress

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, April 16 (PIA) -- Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is inviting Small and Medium Enterprises in Central Luzon to attend its Regional SETUP (Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program) Congress which is slated April 17 at Ephatha Development Center in Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga. “SETUP is a nationwide strategy that encourages and assists SMEs to adopt technology innovations to improve their operations and thus boost productivity and com...
  • Total number of SPES beneficiaries bared

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, April 16 (PIA) -- A total of 792 students are benefited from the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) in the province of Eastern Samar. Most students are deployed in the community for employed as street cleaners through the “Clean and Green Program” of the government, according to Mylene C. Paganos, Labor and Employment Officer of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Under the SPES, any qualified student aging 15-25 can apply in any gover...
  • Some 150 Maasin City youths to avail themselves of SPES program

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 16 (PIA) -- At least 150 youths will avail themselves of the Special Program for the Education of Students (SPES). The SPEC is an education assistance program of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in coordination with the local government unit of Maasin. Vice Mayor Ma. Effie Abiera-Sabandal, the Public Employment Service Officer (PESO) of Maasin City, called on qualified applicants who haven’t submitted yet the requirements to comply and submit ...
  • PHO cites banes of summer

    KALIBO, Aklan, April 16 (PIA) -- Health officials here said residents should be wary of six common diseases and drowning incidents this summer. Using the letter S to help in the recall of these diseases, the Provincial Health Office said these summer diseases include: sore eyes, sunburn, “sipon at ubo”, vomiting and diarrhea (“suka” in the Aklanon dialect), skin diseases and “sakmal ng aso” (dog bites). Besides these 6 common summer diseases, Dr. Cornelio Cuachon, Chief of the D...
  • OFWs reminded to go through legal channel, file proper documents

    MANILA, April 16 -- Vice President and Presidential Adviser on Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Concern Jejomar C. Binay reminded OFWs in Saudi Arabia to always go through legal channels and file the proper documents to avoid complications. In a statement, the Vice President renewed his call for Philippine Embassy officials in Riyadh to fast track the processing of exit papers for undocumented OFWs in Saudi Arabia. “I am asking the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh to expedite the processing of ...
  • PESO Malaybalay employs 150 students this summer

    MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, April 16 (PIA) -- The Public Employment Service Office (PESO) here employed 150 students under the government’s Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES). Herculano S. Ronolo, city administrator, said the hired students underwent an orientation urging them to follow government rules and policies, specifically on the aspect of working hours and the delivery of quality public service. Ronolo said that of 150 student grantees, 100 of them will work for the per...
  • PAGCOR allocates P2-B for additional classrooms

    PARAÑAQUE CITY, April 15 (PIA) -- Soon, more classrooms will be built as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) earmarked an additional P2 billion to fund the construction of around 2,000 classrooms in public schools all over the country. PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Cristino Naguiat, Jr., Education Secretary Armin Luistro and Secretary Rogelio Singson of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement to mark the second phase of the sa...
  • Marawi School Division gets thumbs-up from DepEd-ARMM chief

    MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 15 (PIA) -- The regional secretary of the Department of Education in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DepED-ARMM) lauded the teachers and pupils under the Marawi City School Division. Lawyer Jamar Kulayan, who graced the city’s 33rd founding anniversary on Sunday, said he is proud and impressed by the recent performance of the Marawi City School Division. He said Marawi City School Division recorded a high rating in the regional assessment in Scienc...
  • 15,715 students in Central Luzon to be given SPES jobs this 2013

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, April 15 (PIA) -- A total of 15,715 poor but deserving college and vocational students in Central Luzon will be given an opportunity to work in private companies and local government units (LGUs) this year under the government’s Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES). Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Director Raymundo Agravante said Tarlac got the most SPES slots with 5,523 followed by Zambales- 3,942; Nueva Ecija- 1,800; Bulac...
  • TESDA, DSWD launches Cash for Training Project in Marinduque

    BOAC, Marinduque, April 14 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has launched the “Cash For Training Project” in the municipality of Mogpog. TESDA Provincial Director Ramon Geron, DSWD Officer II Helen Alcoba and TESDA Mimaropa Regional Director Baron Lagran led the launch. The project aims to train disadvantaged youths who have been assessed as eligible under the Expanded Government Internship ...
  • DOH allots P6.4M infra assistance to Camiguin

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 13 (PIA) -- Department of Health - Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Northern Mindanao has released P6.4 million assistance to Camiguin province for health facility enhancement. The amount covers building improvement of the five rural health units (RHUs), as well as, the Tangaro, Panghiawan, and Sto. Niño Barangay Health Stations in Catarman town. For Hospital improvement, the DOH has already poured in P20million in 2010 for the development of the Camiguin Ge...
  • PhilHealth’s No Balance Billing benefits 2,136 indigent patients in BGHMC in 2012

    BAGUIO CITY, April 13 (PIA) -- The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC) or PhilHealth’s No Balance Billing (NBB) policy for sponsored members benefitted 2,136 indigent patients at the Baguio General Hospital Medical Center (BGHMC) in 2012. This was reported by BGHMC PhilHealth and Billing Section head Lilia Abalos, in a Department of Health -led kapihan media forum, Thursday. Abalos disclosed that under the NBB, Philhealth’s sponsored members which include the government subsidiz...
  • PIA head inspires thousands of youths to inspire, serve others

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 13 (PIA) -- Undersecretary Jose Marie Oquinena of the Presidential Communications and Operations Office (PCOO) ignited the spirit of young people, leading them to a life of service for God, country, and for others. Speaking before over 4,000 youths that converged at the jam-packed city gym here last night for the start of the church-based Regional Youth Day, Oquinena, who is also the Director-General of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), literally led ...
  • DOST to award STARBOOKS to LGUs in Negros Oriental

    DUMAGUETE CITY, April 13 (PIA) -- The local Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will launch the first online science and technology library which will be turned over to the three local government units in Negros Oriental on April 17 at DOST’s Office, Dumaguete City. Dubbed 'STARBOOKS' or the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated Kiosk Stations, will be awarded to public libraries of Dumaguete City, Mabinay town, and Bayawan City for their eLibrary on scie...
  • SSS offers bigger Educ-Assist loans, eases eligibility terms

    QUEZON CITY, April 12 -- More college and vocational-technical (voc-tech) course students can expect to meet their financial requirements for enrollment as the Social Security System (SSS) further liberalized the guidelines of its educational loan facility called the SSS Educational Assistance Loan Program or "Educ-Assist". SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. in a statement said members earning P25,000 and below per month are now eligible for Educ-Assist loans, repla...
  • DOH reports positive feedback on micronutrient powder use

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, April 12 (PIA) – The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) for Northern Mindanao reports favorable feedback in micronutrient powder (MNP) use among children. DOH Nutritionist Dietician Beryl Lorraine G. Go said mothers noted positive change on their children’s weight, health and skin after introducing the micronutrient powder mix on their meal. It comes in single-served sachet or packages that can be mixed in home prepared food. Each sachet is pa...
  • Ifugao action team members enhance capability on critical review of DSWD projects

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, April 12 (PIA) --Members of the Provincial Action Team (PAT) and the Municipal Action Teams (MAT) in the province have completed their training on the ”Enhanced Social Welfare Indicators (SWI) and Capability Building' to make operational their convergence strategy in the implementation of the various projects of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Minda Romero, Provincial Link of the DSWD programs and projects in Ifugao, said that the training aims t...
  • Daragang Magayon jobs fair draws 539 qualifiers over 1,654 applicants

    By Sally B. Atento LEGAZPI CITY, April 12 (PIA) -- A total of 539 job applicants qualified for employment in the two-day jobs fair held at Albay Astrodome on April 9-10 as part of the month-long celebration of this year's Daragang Magayon Festival. “The fair was a success, implying that 539 families will have the chance to have better life by having jobs. Ito ang matuwid na daan para sa amin,” said Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Bicol Director Nathaniel V. Lacambra. The jobs fa...
  • Cordillera provinces to strengthen inter-border campaign against malaria

    BAGUIO CITY, April 12 (PIA) -- The provinces of Kalinga, Ifugao and Mountain Province are set to sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to intensify the campaign against malaria, a dreadful but preventable parasite-caused disease. The MOA which is set to be signed this April 25 during the observance of World Malaria Day, will include strengthening of border operations among the provinces and the sharing of resources and manpower in the quest for a malaria- free Cordillera. Department of Hea...
  • 17 CV student-finalists to compete in search for Ten Outstanding Students of the Phl

    DUMAGUETE CITY, April 11 (PIA) -- The Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) - Central Visayas has released the names of the 17 finalists from various universities and colleges in Region 7 who will vie for this year’s TOSP awardees. The finalists will represent their respective schools to the TOSP search during its Formation Week on May 15 to 19 in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. The formation week will composed a series of interviews and activities as part of the evaluation of the deser...
  • DOST's Gawad Jose L Guerrero now accepting entries

    QUEZON CITY, April 12---Nomination to the 2013 Gawad Jose L. Guererro is now open. Otherwise known as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Media Awards, the Gawad Jose L. Guerrero aims to recognize media organizations, private and public, that write or report science and technology information in the country. Award categories include Professional and Institutional Award (for Media Practitioners in Print, Broadcast, and Cyber), and Outstanding Information Officer Award for DOST emplo...
  • More women than men earn bachelor’s degrees in CAR

    BAGUIO CITY, April 12 (PIA) -- The National Statistical Coordination Board-Cordillera Administrative Region (NSCB-CAR) reported that more women earn bachelor’s degrees than men in the region. Data from the NSCB-CAR revealed that women made up 63 percent of all the college graduates in the region for Academic Year (AY) 2010-2011 as reported by the Commission on Higher Education Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR). Women dominated the following courses; Home economics (95%); Mass Com...
  • Don’t use women's bodies to win votes, PCW urges 2013 election candidates

    QUEZON CITY, April 11 -- With the election campaign period reaching its peak, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) on Thursday urged candidates to stop using women’s bodies as selling points in campaign sorties. “We are against any activity that capitalizes on sensual and provocative images of women. To win votes, candidates should sell their political platforms, not women’s bodies,” PCW Chairperson Remedios Ignacio-Rikken said in a press statement. PCW noted that hiring women en...
  • DSWD leads "Anti-Epal" Campaign in Camarines Sur

    NAGA CITY, April 11 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development regional office here launched the agency's anti-epal campaign Jardin Del Rio, Barangay Dayangdang here, Wednesday, April 10. Department of Social Welfare and Development Bicol Regional Director Arnel B. Garcia sought the help of the local media to popularize the campaign in line with the upcoming mid term elections on May 2013. With the slogan “Makialam, Magsumbong, Bawal ang Epal Dito”, Garcia said that the ca...
  • CSU launches DZNJ Radyo Kaamigo at Panganiban Campus

    VIRAC, Catanduanes, April 11, (PIA) -- Now hitting the airwaves of Viga-Panganiban-Bagamanoc area is the newest radio station in town, the Nutri-skwela DZNJ Radyo Kaamigo. The community radio station is located at the CSU Panganiban Campus Administration Building and managed by the broadcasting team of selected CSU Panganiban Campus staff who underwent series of intensive trainings. The launching program and inaugural broadcast on April 4, was graced by Assistant Secretary and National Nutri...
  • Comelec sets P3,000 honorarium for personnel serving in the May 13 elections

    OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Apr. 11 (PIA) -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has set the honorarium of the the Department of Education (DepEd) personnel who will serve in the Board of Elections Inspectors (BEI) in the May 13 elections. Pursuant to Comelec Resolution 9640, the BEI is composed of a chairperson and two members, one of whom will be designated as poll clerk, and all of whom are public school teachers, giving preference to those with permanent positions and those who se...
  • FFS empowers more women-farmers in Jiabong town

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, April 11 (PIA) -- The Farmers’ Field School (FFS) on Palay Check System has empowered more women farmers from Barangay Parina, Jiabong, Samar. Yesterday, the FFS graduated 24 women farmers, which is seven more than the male graduating class. Concepcion Mabilangan, barangay chairman, who was part of the graduating class acknowledged the learning she acquired during the season-long FFS classes. “Makakabulig gud an amon hibabruan (Our new learning will really help us...
  • DILG chief favors near or on-site relocation of informal settlers in MM danger zones

    MANILA, April 11 (PIA) -- Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas said the government is adopting a near-site or even on-site relocation policy for informal settlers residing along the precarious waterways of Metro Manila. Roxas said President Aquino himself gave instructions that all relocation strategies of the government agencies should, as a top priority, prevent the displacement of families from their source of livelihood and schools. The DILG is the key agency that is coordinat...
  • Makati opens 'SMART' summer program

    MAKATI CITY, April 11 (PIA) -- The local government has welcomed 3,059 young enrollees of the Sports, Music, Arts and Recreational Training (SMART) 2013 summer program who gathered at the City Hall Quadrangle for its official opening. In a statement, Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay Jr. said that the annual event aims to promote a healthy lifestyle among youngsters, as well boost their potential in the fields of sports and other recreational activities. “The SMART program offers schoolchi...
  • Pangasinan school sets new record of college grads

    DAGUPAN CITY, April 11 (PIA) -- The Pangasinan State University (PSU) set a new record for the highest number of graduates this year forcing officials to hold a two-part graduation ceremony last week. Graduation ceremonies were held twice, in the morning and in the afternoon, to accommodate some 3, 024 students who graduated from the PSU’s eight campuses. Dr. Manolito Manuel, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, said that the number of graduates for academic year 2013 was a record breaker, ...
  • 67 WVisayas teachers hurdle school heads exam

    ILOILO CITY, April 11 (PIA) -- Sixty seven public school teachers from Western Visayas passed the 2012 National Qualifying Examinations for School Heads (NQESH). Department of Education 6 (Dep-Ed 6) Regional Testing Coordinator Dr. Donato Delgado said 765 examinees from Region VI took the NQESH, but only 67 met the cut-off score of percentile 90. Donato said that NQESH is administered as a mechanism in selecting competent school heads to ensure that only highly-qualified educators will be po...
  • Angeles City District Jail inmates to graduate from elem, HS

    ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, April 11 (PIA) -- A total of 28 inmates of the Angeles City District Jail will soon don white togas after successfully finishing elementary and high school via Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System (ALS). ALS Supervisor Josefina David said the first batch of graduates from the jail is composed of three females and two males who finished elementary and 14 females and nine males who finished high school. “All of the graduates passed the Accreditation &...
  • DOLE orders OWWA to include module on Filipino values and history in OFWs pre-departure orientation

    QUEZON CITY, April 11 (PIA)--The Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) has ordered the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to include a module on Filipino values and history on the Pre-Departure Orinetation Seminar (PDOS) of overseas Filipino workers. “I have instructed OWWA Administrator Carmelita Dimzon to immediately come up with such a module in consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs. Once the module is finished, we will request the assistance of the DFA in train...
  • 23 Kalinga elem teachers undergo basic computer literacy training

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 11 (PIA) -– Twenty three school teachers from the Lanna Elementary School of this city have undergone training on basic computer literacy. Tabuk City Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager Loyda Saboy said this is part of the city government’s initiative to improve the delivery of education services in the city. Many elementary teachers she said need to know the basic operations of computer to be able to cope with the trend of using information tec...
  • DOH-NCR holds sign language training for healthcare providers

    QUEZON CITY, April 11 (PIA) -- The Department of Health –National Capital Region (DOH-NCR) on Wednesday holds Basic Filipino Sign Language (BSFL) training for healthcare providers to help them communicate and understand patients with hearing disabilities. DOH-NCR Regional Director Eduardo Janairo said the training is part of the development program for health workers who deals with hearing impaired patients. “Knowledge in sign language is essential specially for health providers so that ...
  • Prov'l govt, TESDA sponsor free traing for ComVal women thru Livelihood Training Caravan

    NABUNTURAN COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE, April 11 (PIA) -- Women in the province of Compostela Valley can now avail themselves of the free training thru the “Livelihood Training Caravan” sponsored by the Provincial Government through the Compostela Valley Provincial Council of Women (CVPCOW). Women Development Program Coordinator Rheabie Cobrado said the free training caravan is conducted in partnership with Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Last March, about 30 wo...
  • 21.5% increase of Region 12 passers in 2013 DOST-SEI Scholarship program noted

    COTABATO CITY, April 11 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology, Region 12 has noted a remarkable increase in the number of passers in its scholarship program for 2013 posting a 21.5% hike compared to that of last year. DOST 12 regional director Zenaida P. HR-Laidan said, 79 incoming college freshmen in Region XII have qualified to avail of the agency’s scholarship program for school year 2013-2014. Laidan said, of the total number of successful examinees, 70 met the criteria for...
  • Nueva Vizcaya LGU mulls social pension for poor senior citizens

    BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, April 10(PIA) -- Local officials here are crafting a program that will provide social pension benefits for poor senior citizens in support of the Senior Citizens Law. Mayor Flaviano Balgos said that the social pension will be part of their Municipal Poverty Reduction Plan (MPRP) which will benefit senior citizens of their municipality especially those classified within the poverty mark survey. “We have already formed our Local Poverty Reduction Action Team (LPRAT)...
  • Hataman orders DPWH-ARMM to assess possible water project in sea-based Bongo Island, Parang

    COTABATO CITY, April 10 (PIA) -- A team from the Department of Health-Manila and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) under Dr. Kadil “Jojo” Sinolinding, Jr. is visiting Bongo Island, in Parang, Maguindanao particularly the cholera outbreak stricken barangay of Tukamarur today, April 10. Last April 2, DOH-ARMM has declared a cholera outbreak in barangay Tukamarur after 31 residents have been hospitalized due to the water-borne disease due to contamination following a heavy rain the d...
  • BJMP sets up development programs for inmates

    PAGADIAN CITY, April 10 (PIA) – As part of the rehabilitative goals of correctional institutions, the local city jail under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has launched a welfare and development program for inmates. The program involves setting up of barber and massage shops inside the rehabilitation center at Barangay Lenienza in this city. City warden Sr. Insp. Mashur Sala said the program aims to ease the inmates’ boredom of being away from their families and to make...
  • RDC 6 gives nod to school infra project

    ILOILO CITY, April 9 (PIA6) -- The Regional Development Council 6 unanimously passed Executive Committee Resolution No 5 in its recent meeting, endorsing the School Infrastructure Project (PSIP) II for public private partnership. This is expected to address the incremental classroom requirements of the Public school system, where the Department of Education (DepED) has adopted a public-private partnership (PPP) framework as a strategy to supplement the provision of educational facilities, consi...
  • NNC-2 showcases 20 ‘Nutri-Kalesas’

    SOLANA, Cagayan, April 9 (PIA) --Twenty ‘Kalesas’ were painted with ten nutritional guidelines in the Kalesa painting contest here to promote good nutrition in this town, led by the National Nutrition Council (NNC) region 2. The contest kicked-off the project in partnership with LGU-Solana, Municipal Health Office, different departments of the said LGU and the barangay officials highlighting the nutritional guidelines which will help public understand and follow the guidelines to improve ...
  • PhilHealth posts 85 percent enrolment of poor families in Nueva Vizcaya

    BAMBANG, Nueva Vizcaya, April 9 (PIA) -- The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC) has already enrolled 85 percent of their total target families in the province, officials here said. “For this year, we have already accomplished 85 percent of our target. Right after the elections, we will closely coordinating with local officials to orient them on how to enroll their council members to the PhilHealth program,” said Rey Ferrer, PhilHealth provincial officer. At present, PhilHealt...
  • DOLE Kalinga to hold consultation on Kasambahay Act

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 8 (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Kalinga will conduct a public consultation on the implementing rules and regulation (IRR) of the Kasambahay Act, a new law benefiting household workers, on April 15 here. Republic Act 10361 known as Kasambahay Law is an Act instituting policies for the protection and welfare of domestic helpers. Section 4 of the general provisions describes a domestic worker or “kasambahay” as “any person engaged in do...
  • DOLE encourages skilled workers to enroll in SRS

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 8 (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment Office (DOLE) Kalinga is encouraging skilled workers in the province to enroll in the Skills Registry System (SRS) through their Public Employment Service Office (PESO). The enrollment to the SRS would provide an individual a chance to be included in the manpower poll of the province giving them better opportunity to get a job either locally or abroad, Vincent Galura of DOLE Kalinga SRS said. Galura said enrollment...
  • DSWD to launch 'Bawal Ang Epal Dito' campaign in Camarines Sur

    NAGA CITY, April 8 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office will launch in Camarines Sur its “Bawal ang Epal Dito” campaign come April 10 at Jardin Del Rio, Dayandang, this city. The campaign aims to advise the public, particularly the beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) that only DSWD has the sole authority to remove from the list any member who are non-compliant to the regulations stipulated under the Conditional Cash Tra...
  • 18 Antiqueno students qualify for DOST scholarship

    SAN JOSE, Antique, April 8 (PIA6) -- There are 18 incoming first year college students in the province who passed the qualifying examination of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). “We are glad that many students from poor families have availed of agency’s scholarship. With this, sons and daughters of farmers, fisherfolks and seasonal laborers will have the chance to finish their studies and fulfill their dreams,” said Engr. Eleazar Moscoso, Science Research Specialist of DO...
  • RDC approves 2014 budget proposal of CL state universities and colleges

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, April 8 (PIA) -- Regional Development Council (RDC) has approved a resolution favorably endorsing the 2014 budget proposal of all 12 state universities and colleges (SUCs) in Central Luzon. Approved funds include Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) – P92.1 million, Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) – P97.5 million, Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) - P473.1 million, Bulacan State University (BULSU) – P573.9 million, Central Luzon State...
  • World Health Day 2013: honouring a leader, controlling high blood pressure

    MANILA, April 7 -- The World Health Organization (WHO) in the Western Pacific Region will observe World Health Day 2013 on April 8 with a ceremony honouring Philippine President Benigno Aquino III for his leadership in public health. "It is fitting that we celebrate World Health Day by recognizing President Aquino's exemplary leadership in public health," says WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr Shin Young-soo in statement. "Among his most significant accomplishments have been ...
  • Kalahi-CIDSS to be implemented in Butuan

    BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 6 (PIA) -- One of the biggest poverty reduction projects of the Philippine government, the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) will be bringing its war on poverty to this city in early April of this year. Administered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Kalahi-CIDSS is an anti-poverty project using the community-driven development (CDD) approach by empowering ordinary citizens to act...
  • Poder project closes with high hopes

    BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 6 (PIA) -- In their continued pursuit of improving the plight of poor communities in Caraga region, the Spanish government-funded anti-poverty project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), PODER, successfully wrapped up its seventh year implementation of a grant worth P14,605,205.00. Using a community-driven development (CDD) approach, Poder focused on the provision of basic health and education services in three municipalities in the region especially ta...
  • DSWD7 conducts leadership training for trafficking survivors

    CEBU CITY, April 6 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) has conducted leadership training to 20 victim-survivors of trafficking from Cebu province to organize peer groups to serve as support system of other beneficiaries. DSWD’s focal person on Family and Women Welfare Program Rosemarie Salazar said, since the implemented the program two years ago, they saw the need to organize peer groups among the beneficiaries of the program. Members of the group are identi...
  • 4,503 Cagayan students to be employed this summer

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, April 6 (PIA) -- Some 4,503 poor but deserving students are expected to be employed under the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) this summer of 2013 in Cagayan province. Elmer Lumauan, head of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – Cagayan, said 3,939 students will be employed in 27 local government units and national government agencies provincewide, while 564 students in 17 private institutions. “A total of P8.19 million is already allocated f...
  • Sec. Soliman to visit remote town of Abra

    BAGUIO CITY, April 6 (PIA) - - Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman is set to visit Tineg, one of the remotest town in Abra, this April 8 to personally monitor the implementation of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and other government social protection program in the area. Soliman will be visiting an Alternative Family Development Sessions of 4Ps beneficiaries at Caganayan Primary school in Tineg and is expected to have an in...
  • PWDs rights to be strengthened in the grassroots

    DAVAO CITY, April 5 (PIA) -- The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) will be pushing for the strengthening of its regional counterparts to ensure thorough implementation of laws that protect and promote the rights of Persons with Disability (PWDs) at the grassroots level. NCDA-Regional Program Coordinator Ruth Tacujan said NCDA has proposed directions for the Regional Council on Disability Affairs (RCDA) that would focus on the reactivation of its priority sub-committees and enabling ...
  • DBP partners with schools for student loans

    ILOILO CITY, April 5 (PIA5) -- The Development Bank of the Philippines has launched a P2-billion lending scheme to qualified educational institutions for re-lending to deserving poor students. DBP-Iloilo Asst. Manager Ma. Juana Easter Senupe said the program, dubbed HELPS, or Higher Education Loan Program for Students, is a DBP loan facility through schools serving as conduits, where students can apply for loans. Senupe said schools should submit their letter of intent, stating the numbe...
  • Six WVisayas students qualify as EDSP scholars

    ILOILO CITY, April 5 (PIA) -- Six students from Western Visayas have qualified for the Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). OWWA-6 officer-in-charge Reynold T. Pigar said among the 100 national qualifiers for the EDSP are three high school graduates from Iloilo, two from Aklan and one from Antique. The following are the qualifiers from Iloilo: Christine Angelica Leal Losañes and Romie Angelo Granja Azur, both from the Phil...
  • Health group aims to institutionalize healthy practices by 2015

    BAGUIO CITY, April 5 (PIA) -- Members of the Regional Coalition for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (RCPCNCD) aim to institutionalize seven healthy habits and practices in their respective offices by 2015. During the first quarter meeting of the Coalition held recently, the members agreed that each member agency or institution will facilitate the implementation and institutionalization of the said healthy lifestyle practices in their offices and to submit progress repor...
  • PSWDO set guidelines in the provision of financial assistance to disadvantaged persons

    BONTOC, Mountain Province, April 5 (PIA) -- The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) has come out with guidelines and policies in the provision of financial assistance by the provincial government to persons or families in crisis situations as a form of intervention. The guidelines aim to to provide equal and fair treatment to all these financially incapacitated in the province. This was approved by Governor Leonard G. Mayaen. Target beneficiaries of this financia...
  • Gov't agencies sign MOA for 2000 new classrooms for Education Department

    QUEZON CITY, April 5 -- Three government agencies have partnered to provide 2,000 classrooms for public schools under the Department of Education. The targeted additional classrooms will be constructed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and will be funded from the P2 billion donation committed by the Pagcor, a statement from the Department of Education said. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) will turn over the classrooms to the DepEd on December 2014,...
  • Cash incentives awaits Palarong Pambansa top performers

    QUEZON CITY, April 5 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) through its partners in the private sector will give financial rewards and scholarship grants to athletes who will excel in the Palarong Pambansa 2013. Education Secretary Armin Luistro said the incentive given, which is done for the first time in history of the annual sports convention, is another proof of the private sector’s growing involvement in the holistic molding of the youth. The financial reward will be given on top...
  • Communities support mothers for proper child nutrition

    VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur, April 5 (PIA) -- Giving proper nutrition for infants and young children has become a community responsibility to help mothers look after their children’s growth. This was the campaign of the Ilocos Sur Nutrition Committee with the National Nutrition Council in conducting a series of training on infant and young child feeding (IYCF) in the province last month. Edith Castillo, provincial nutrition center chief, said at least 752 residents in 188 villages composed of bar...
  • CSC urges Eastern Samar examinees to report early

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, April 5 (PIA) – An official of the Civil Service Commission(CSC) here urged examinees in the April 14 Career Examination to report to their examination rooms as early as 6 a.m. “The examination will start officially at eight o’clock in the morning, but it is better if they can get inside ahead of time, so they can well-prepare themselves, physically and emotionally,” Ms. Tolentino said. “The gate closes at 8 a.m.” She also said the listing of the ...
  • 6 East Samar LGUs continue to implement SPES

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, April 5 (PIA) -- Six local government units (LGUs) will continue to implement the students assistance program dubbed Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES). Ms. Fe Estrella, head, Department of Labor and Employment Provincial Office said this is amidst COMELEC’s directive for LGUs, to submit application for exemption from the election ban on employment, in favor of their student-beneficiaries. The DOLE local head further informed that, of the 11 L...
  • 23 Cordillera youth qualify as OWWA scholars for school year 2013 -2014

    BAGUIO CITY, April 5 (PIA) -- The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration – Cordillera (OWWA-CAR) will have 23 new college scholars for school year 2013 – 2014 who have successfully hurdled the scholarship qualifying examinations. For OWWA’s Education for Development Scholarship Program or EDSP, Kayhe Dumalili Mañebog of the Baguio City National High School passed the qualifying exam and is qualified to enroll in any four or five year baccalaureate course of her choice. For the ...
  • Department of Education's school building project gets world attention

    QUEZON CITY, April 4 -- The Department of Education’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for School Infrastructure Project (PSIP), which aims to address shortages in public school classrooms through partnerships with the private sector, has made it as the lone entry from the ASEAN to the internationally-acclaimed Partnerships Awards 2013. The PSIP is a qualifier for the ‘Best Pathfinder Project’ category. Previous winners were mostly from Europe and the Americas. The awarding ceremony wi...
  • 200 poor students avail themselves of Tacloban's SPES

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 4 (PIA) -- Around 200 students availed themselves of the city’s Special Program for the Employment of Students, the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) said. The Tacloban PESO said the deployment of SPES workers started April 1 to different departments of the city government and city barangays. Those who will be assigned in the barangays will undertake the implementation of the Skills Registration Program of the local PESO. According to Tacloban PESO Manager ...
  • 429 pass A & E Test for high school level in East Samar

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, April 4 (PIA) -- Of 879 test takers of the the 2012 Accreditation and Equivalency (A & E) Test for Secondary conducted in Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School (ESNCHS), Borongan City, December 9 last year, 429 or 48.80 percent passed the exams. According to Bonifacio A. Ramento, Education Program supervisor (EPS) - Alternative Learning System (ALS), among the test passers are four jail inmates who availed themselves the Literacy Behind Bars of ALS pr...
  • DOH names modes of transmission of HIV-AIDS

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 4 (PIA) -- An advisory from the Department of Health in Eastern Visayas states that human immunodeficiency virus-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV-AIDS) can be transmitted in four modes. The press statement said that HIV-AIDS can be transmitted through mother and child mode, sexual contact, blood transfusions, and infected (hypodermic) needles. An infected mother who gets pregnant and delivers a baby is discouraged to breastfeed the baby to lessen the possibil...
  • Ifugao employs 55 students, maintains 29 SPES

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, April 4 (PIA) -- The provincial local government unit here hired 55 students under the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Claire Calingayan of the provincial Public Employment Service Office (PESO) said 357 students in the 11 municipalities took the examinations administered by their office and the top five per town were hired. The students underwent preliminary interview and screening at the PESO and their qual...
  • GSIS opens 10-scholarship slots for low-income state workers in EV

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, April 4 (PIA) -- Ten scholarship slots are up for grabs for government employees’ children in Samar and Leyte said John Vianny Ocaña, acting manager of Government Service Insurance System(GSIS) here. Ocana said P20,000 tuition fee allowance will be afforded to each scholar, in addition to the P2,000 monthly stipend for any four to five-year college course in any accredited school. At present, two scholars are enrolled at the Eastern Samar State University (ESS...
  • DOLE allots P.7M in Samar SPES, now offered year round

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, April 4 (PIA) -- With summer officially on, so is the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Samar. Four hundred and sixty five poor but deserving students are now in the LGUs they were assigned. Seven LGUs accepted the program in Samar that included Pagsanghan, Gandara, San Jose de Buan, Sta Margarita, Paranas, Hinabangan, and Tagapul-an employing 417 youth to work for one month or more. LGUs pay 60 perce...
  • Phil-Job.net offers improved access to employment

    QUEZON CITY, April 4 (PIA)--The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) bared that the government job portal, the Phil-Job.net now offers improved access to employment opportunities after it underwent re-engineering to cover not just job matching but also labor market information dissemination. Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, in a statement said the government job portal is now capable of housing the critical supply and demand database systems, such as the DOLE Data Warehou...
  • BIR-Ifugao informs candidates on “Project Iboto mo”

    KIANGAN, Ifugao April 4 (PIA)-- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) informed candidates of their obligation to withhold five percent creditable withholding tax on their income payments made on all their campaign expenditures. Dubbed as “Project Iboto Mo”, it implements provisions of Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 15-2013 entitled “Rules and Regulations Governing Campaign Finance and Disclosure in Connection with the May 2013 national and local elections and subsequent elections th...
  • 15 Capiceño HS grads pass DOST scholarship tilt

    ROXAS CITY, Capiz, April 4 (PIA) -- Fifteen Capiceño incoming freshman college students this June were passed the government's science and technology scholarship grant. Information Officer Juafe Abareles of the Department of Science and Technology in Capiz said the 15 qualifiers were among the 286 high school graduating students who took the DOST- Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) Undergraduate Scholarship Program for 2013 in November last year. She said the 15 Capiceño qu...
  • Day-care center to provide supplementary feeding even during summer

    ILOILO CITY, April 4 (PIA) – Even during summer, children in day care centers will be given supplementary feeding. Salvacion Gayoma, regional dietician of Department of Social Welfare and Development-6, said parents should bring their children to the day care centers for the 120-day feeding program. The program caters to three and four-year-old children and those enrolled in day care centers. “The school children in public schools are already attended to by the Department of Educati...
  • Hats off to Team Katipunan Bayani Challenge volunteers

    DIPOLOG CITY, April 4 (PIA) -- The five-day test of endurance and courage of Gawad Kalinga (GK) Bayani Challenge 2013 held on March 23-27 at the municipal in Katipunan, Zamboanga del Norte succeeded in drawing support from the volunteers coming from the various sectors of the society. On the opening day, the Katipunan gymnasium was filled with volunteers consisting of students, government officials and employees, police officers, members of Philippine Army, businessmen, people’s organizations...
  • 163 Ilocos students now 2013 science scholars

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, April 4 (PIA) -- At least 163 high school graduates from Region 1 passed the 2013 Science and Technology (S&T) scholarship examination last November 18. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Ilocos said on Wednesday that some 3,597 students passed out of the 25,696 examinees nationwide. Rachel S. Jose, DOST project assistant, said of the total passers, some 147 students will be covered by the Science and Technology Scholarship Program while 16 will be under the ...
  • Tabuk City BHWs train on body massage, beauty care

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 4 (PIA) –- Sixty accredited barangay health workers (BHW) of Tabuk City are undergoing a five-day body massage and beauty care training, here. The project is jointly sponsored by the City Government, City Health Office (CHO), Public Employment Service Office, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Kalinga Party List. CHO Henrietta Bagayao, who supervises the Tabuk City BHWs, said the training is part of the city government’s program to...
  • News feature: Pilot-testing delivery of pension in remote East Visayas towns

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 3 (PIA) -- Starting the first quarter of this year, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is piloting the door-to-door delivery of social pension for indigent senior citizens in 10 remote municipalities of the region using services of the Philippine Postal Corporation (Philpost). The three-month pilot-testing will be for the deliver, on time, of cash grants, and for the efficient and cost-effective door-to-door delivery, DSWD Region 8 Director Remia...
  • DOH-8 issues advisory on summer diseases

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Health in Eastern Visayas had issued an advisory on the diseases that may occur during summer as well as the precautions and treatment against the diseases. The advisory mentioned the diseases that usually occur during summer - sunburn, sore eyes, colds and cough, diarrhea, and dog bite. The public is advised to use sunscreen with at least 30 percent sun protection factor (SPF) to avoid sunburn and to drink at least eight to 12 glasses ...
  • Participate in DOLE job fairs, new grads told

    QUEZON CITY, APRIL 3 (PIA)--The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) advises new graduates and jobseekers participate in the agency organize job fairs. Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, in a statement said the job fairs are open to all unemployed, skilled and unskilled workers, fresh college graduates, graduates of training institutions, displaced workers, and employees seeking advancement to rise in the career ladder. The labor chief also advised jobseekers to have the ne...
  • Poultry plant workers undertake good manufacturing practice

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, April 3 (PIA) -- To further promote good health practices, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has conducted a seminar on food safety among workers of a poultry dressing plant in Bauang town. Anielyn Pai, science research analyst of DOST said, the facilitators wrapped the sanitation guidelines in three “Ps” namely: physical facilities, personnel and processes to help participants understand the modules of the seminar with ease. The physical faciliti...
  • Bird flu preparedness set for project implementers in the Ilocos Region

    DAGUPAN CITY, April 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Ilocos Region will conduct a three-day technical update on avian influenza preparedness for project implementers in the region on April 3 to 5 at the Dagupan Garden and Village Hotel in this city. Valentino Perdido, DA’s OIC-regional executive director, said that the event intends to establish and strengthen the core capabilities of project implementers to pre-empt and control the occurrence of influenza pandemic. “T...
  • MTRCB calls on parents, adults to work with children on good use of media

    BAGUIO CITY, April 3 (PIA) -- Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) Chair Eugenio “Toto” Villareal calls on parents and responsible adults to work with children on good judgment in the use of media. Villareal was among the key resource speakers during a four-day summer workshop by the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) which opened at the Baguio Museum here, Tuesday. Speaking to an audience of children, parents, and media practitioners, Villareal poi...
  • Civic group continues to reach out to disadvantaged Abreños

    BANGUED, Abra, April 2(PIA) -- The AbraCadua (AC), a group of Abrenios who have developed special friendship on the social networking site and decided to embark on its own outreach programs continues reaching out to more disadvantaged Abreños with about 300 families in three towns as the latest beneficiaries. AC recently distributed sets of sleeping mats and blankets to more than 150 poor families in Brgy. San Isidro in Lagangilang, and another 150 needy families in Brgy. Namit-ingan, ...
  • Ifugao PLGU conducts gender sensitivity training to employees

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, April 3 (PIA)-- The provincial local government unit(PLGU) here conducted recently a training on gender sensitivity for its almost 500 employees who were divided into seven batches. Juliet Taguiling, the PLGU Acting Supervising Administrative Officer, said the provincial leadership believes that proper education of people on gender will help them determine which assumptions are valid and which are stereotyped generalization since gender awareness and sensitivity requires ...
  • OWWA-12 names 5 new scholars

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 3 (PIA) -- Five OFW dependents from the Soccsksargen region passed the qualifying exams for two scholarship programs of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Two qualified for the Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) while three others are for the Congressional Migrant Workers Scholarship Program (CMWSP). The EDSP passers are Gabrielle Faith T. Gloria of San Lorenzo Academy in Polomolok, South Cotabato and Krystianne Paul De...
  • NNC 4A creates “Bantay Asin” task force

    CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, April 3 (PIA) --The National Nutrition Council (NNC) 4A formed yesterday the Regional “Bantay Asin” Task Force (RBATF) to manage and coordinate the National Salt Iodization Program (NSIP) in the region. The group will formulate an annual NSIP operation plan, organization of provincial BATF, and coordination with stakeholders like salt producers and traders. It is also tasked to lead the advocacy in the region to fully and effectively implement Republic Act No. 8172 ...
  • NGCP supports DepED’s alternative learning program

    PAGADIAN CITY, April 3 (PIA) – Complementing the implementation of the Alternative Learning System (ALS) by the Department of Education (DepED), the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP)-Mindanao District I has adopted two barangays in the municipalities of Molave and Mahayag all in Zamboanga del Sur. Literacy classes for adult learners will be conducted in these barangays with the NGCP and the Zamboanga del Sur Electric Cooperative (ZAMSURECO)-I providing for the teachers’ pa...
  • NCIP vows to bring education more accessible to Indigenous Peoples

    NAGTIPUNAN, Quirino, April 3 (PIA) -- National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) commissioner Atty. Percy A. Brawner assured the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) for a better education curriculum for the IPs in the coming years. Brawner was the guest of honor during the recent commencement exercises of the Diuryong Elementary School here, the first school exclusively for the Agtas in the country. He also expressed optimism for the establishment of a secondary schools in the area to ensure c...
  • DSWD-Caraga to launch NHTS-PR Regional Profile of the Poor

    BUTUAN CITY, April 3 (PIA) – As part of the department’s advocacy to disseminate worthwhile and meaningful information to its potential beneficiaries, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga will launch the Regional Profile of the Poor on April 8, 2013 at the Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city. The Regional Profile of the Poor packages the data statistics about the poor households in the region, DSWD-Caraga Regional Director Minda Brigoli said. “It reveals s...
  • TESDA offers DSWD training for work plan

    DAVAO CITY April 3 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is targeting about 1,080 youth beneficiaries for Davao City and Davao del Sur for its cash-for-training program funded by the DSWD. Engr. Nestor Tabada TESDA Provincial director covering the city of Davao and the province of Davao del Sur said the Department of Social Welfare and Development has allotted P21.6 million for the cash-for-training program of which P12- million will be for Davao del Sur and ...
  • OWWA-ARMM has two new CMWSP scholars

    COTABATO CITY, April 3 (PIA) -- Two deserving children of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are among the new batch of scholars of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Ahmed Razlie M. Sahibul and Harlene Joie J. Sawadjaan both from Sulu National High School in Jolo, Sulu passed the qualifying exams for the Congressional Migrant Workers Scholarship Program (CMWSP) for school year 2013. They are now entitled to enroll in any scie...
  • SPES recruitment up in Kalinga

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 3 (PIA) -– Employers are now recruiting student-workers for temporary employment under the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). This year the DOLE has opened 974 SPES slots in Kalinga for qualified college students, Lourdes Canseco of DOLE-Kalinga said. The program on temporary employment for students is covered under Republic Act 7323, where government provides financial assistance as education suppo...
  • Abad to UNA: SUC budget hiked yearly since 2011

    MANILA, April 2 -- Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad reiterated that subsidies for state universities and colleges (SUCs) have been increased yearly under the Aquino administration, adding that the SUC budget in 2013 saw an increase by 44 percent to support President Aquino’s campaign for improved public tertiary education in the country. Abad made this statement following a call by United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) leaders to increase subsidies for state schools. “Over th...
  • Dipolog opens scholarship to poor but deserving students

    DIPOLOG CITY, April 2 (PIA) - - The city government granted scholarship to 833 indigent students coming from the city and other municipalities in Zamboanga del Norte. With funding from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), this scholarship program is in line with the city government’s “Swigapore 2030” vision that aims to make Dipolog as green as Switzerland and as progressive as Singapore. The scholars will each receive a financial aid of P5,000 per semester and must enroll on...
  • Number of women OFW in Bicol up – OWWA

    LEGAZPI CITY, April 2 (PIA) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) regional office here revealed that there are more women overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) than men in the Bicol region. OWWA Bicol regional director Jocelyn Hapal said in an interview during the “Aramon Ta Daw” radio program of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that records of the agency show a steady increase of women OFWs in Bicol and majority of these women OFWs are domestic helpers abroad,” Hapal e...
  • 28 East Samarnons qualify to DOST-SEI college education scholarship

    BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, April 2 (PIA) -- Arnaldo T. Amosco Jr., S & T Director of the Eastern Samar Provincial Science and Technology Center, revealed recently the 28 examinees who qualified in the 2013 DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship program. Amosco said these qualifiers who took the test last November 18, 2012, will receive privileges for tuition and other school fees, books, transportation and uniform allowances, monthly stipends and health insurances for their four to five year-c...
  • Maynilad expands sewerage service; completes STPs

    QUEZON CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- The Maynilad Water Services, Inc. has expanded its sewerage coverage service in Metro Manila with the construction of 11 Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) in 2012. The 11 STPs that complete the 14 total number of sewage facilities are located in Congressional, Grant, Legal, Tatalon, Del Monte, San Antonio, Bahay Toro, Paltok, Baesa, Tandang Sora, and A. Samson all in Quezon City. According to Maynilad, the new facilities have a combined wastewater treatment capacit...
  • Labor dep’t aims to move 213 children out of risky work

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 2 (PIA) -- Four barangays in Mondragon town in Northern Samar will benefit from an International Labour Organization (ILO)-funded program. Beneficiaries of the program are children of families enrolled in the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program of government. Exequil Sarcauga, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional director, revealed the information saying that the villages of Eco, Imelda, Makiwalo, and Nenita are the target of a convergence program a...
  • Makati spends P180M for its elderly in 2012

    MAKATI CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- The local government spent almost P180 million in 2012 for various programs it implemented for the benefit of its senior citizens. In a statement, Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay Jr. said the amount represents the combined expenses for four popular programs for the city’s elderly, namely, free movie entrance in all four cinema groups in the city; Harana ni Lolo at Lola, a cake-giving ceremony during birthdays and golden wedding anniversary; Lakbay Saya ni Lolo at Lo...
  • 43 NegOr high school students qualify for DOST-SEI scholarship

    NEGROS ORIENTAL, April 2 (PIA) – Forty-three (43) high school graduates in Negros Oriental passed the nationwide scholarship exams of the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) for June 2013 school year. DOST provincial director Gilbert Arbon announced that the 40 passers are qualified as scholars to science and technology under the RA 7687, a scholarship program for talented and deserving students belonging to economically disadvantaged families, while ...
  • DepEd-Biliran to pilot seven high schools for K to 12

    NAVAL, Biliran, April 2 (PIA) -- “Seven public high schools in the province of Biliran will serve as model or pilot schools in the implementation of the K to 12 program of the Department of Education (DepEd),” said Medarlou A. Genoguin, K to 12 coordinator of the Department of Education-Division of Biliran in an interview. Genoguin said these public secondary schools are the following: Cabucgayan National School of Arts and Trades (CNSAT) in Cabucgayan town; Maripipi National Vocational Sch...
  • Over 3,500 students pass 2013 S&T Undergraduate Scholarship Exam

    CEBU CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office 7 said 3,597 high school students nationwide qualified for the S&T Undergraduate Scholarship. The Science Education Institute's (SEI) 2013 Science and Technology (S&T) Undergraduate Scholarship Examination was held on November 18, 2012 for School Year 2013-2014. The complete list of qualifiers are now posted at the DOST website: http://www.science-scholarships.ph. The number of passers is 7.1 percen...
  • 68 additional midwives to be deployed to Lanao del Sur villages

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 2 -- Sixty-eight additional midwives are scheduled for deployment to remote villages in Lanao del Sur this month, according to the Department of Health - Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DOH-ARMM). ARMM health secretary Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr., said the placement of midwives in far-flung barangays is part of DOH-ARMM’s Midwives in Every Community in ARMM (MECA) project. MECA project, Sinolinding explained, is des...
  • 46 rice farmers in Maasin learn new techniques

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 2 (PIA) -- Forty-six rice farmers in two upland barangays of this city wore their best smiles as they received their certificates for having successfully hurdled the 16-weekend classes in which they were taught new techniques in cultivating rice. The culmination program was held in Barangay Laboon Tuesday last week for the 30 farmers coming from Barangay Lunas and 16 from Laboon, the ceremonies attended by Councillor Vivencio Costillas, chairman Sangguniang ...
  • SSS offers educational assistance loan for members

    ILOILO CITY, April 2 (PIA6) -- The Social Security System is offering its Educational Assistance Loan (EDUC-ASSIST) Program to its active members. This loan program will give a chance to SSS members to send their children to college, or to take up vocational or technical courses. Active Members who are qualified to apply for the program should: have a salary of P15,000 or less; should have at least 36 months contribution, where the three monthly contriubtions were paid within 12 months prior...
  • Samar takes on the TB challenge with 'Stop TB : Makialam'

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, April 2 (PIA) -- Although Samar province has 87 percent cure rate on tuberculosis, its health officials are urging the public once more to be attentive to the treatment of TB. This develops as patients do not complete the treatment for six months. “Patients stop taking medicines in the middle of the treatment as they begin to feel better,” said TB provincial coordinator Edel Uy. Provincial health officer Dr. Dulce Cernal said the fight to stop TB will only be suc...
  • Binga folks undergo livelihood training on charcoal briquettes

    ITOGON, Benguet,April 2 (PIA) -- About 27 community members within the Binga Hydroelectric Power Plant in barangay Binga this town attended the livelihood training program on the production of environmental charcoal briquettes using agro-waste materials Atty. Mike Hosillos, SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) vice president for Corporate Services and spokesperson, said that participants composed of current and former employees, and community members successfully completed the two-day training. ...
  • Parolees, probationers undergo fire prevention seminar

    PAGADIAN CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- As part of the Parole and Probation Administration’s (PPA) rehabilitation program, a seminar on fire prevention was conducted recently for parolees and probationers at Balangasan gym here. Supervising Parole and Probation Officer Jocelyn Bael said almost 50 parolees and probationers had attended the seminar which aimed to provide them with the knowledge and skills on fire prevention. Bael said the agency has included the seminar in its regular programs for th...
  • 35 Aklanons hurdle DOST-SEI scholarship exam

    KALIBO, Aklan, April 2 (PIA) -- Thirty-five (35) graduating high school students are now assured of going to college next school year after having successfully passed the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST- SEI) Scholarship for School Year 2013-2014. Most of the passers are from public high schools located in various municipalities of the province with only 3 coming from private schools here. Regional Science High School (RSHS) based in Old Buswang, K...
  • DOH6 2013 Red Orchids Awards up

    ILOILO CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- The Department of Health-Center for Health Development 6 (DOH-CHD) is upbeat on the next round of recognizing entities working to make their places 100 percent Tobacco-Free. DOH Regional Director Susana Madarieta said more and more local government units, health facilities and work places are making great strides in enforcing measures to protect the public from hazards of tobacco smoke and exposure to second-hand smoke. She said the DOH Red Orchids Awards is...
  • Over 2,000 volunteers in Lanao del Norte’s GK Bayani Challenge 2013 mobilized

    TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, April 02 (PIA) — A total of 2,078 volunteers, making up 70 teams, registered in the Gawad Kalinga (GK) Bayani Challenge in Lanao del Norte, for the disaster prone area and indigent families as recipients to this project. The 32 units built during the weeklong GK Bayani Challenge (BC) from March 23-27, 2013 in Sapad is located in Poblacion in a two-hectare lot donated by the Ali family through Vice Governor Irma Ali of the province of Lanao del Norte. Per unit has a lo...
  • City College of Angeles to offer four-year academic degrees starting June

    ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, April 2 (PIA) -- City College of Angeles (CCA) is set to offer five four-year academic degrees beginning this June. Courses include BS Computer Science, BS Information Technology, BS Tourism Management, BS Physical Education, and BS Technical Teacher Education major in Food and Service Management. “The new tertiary degrees will encourage more of our youth to study in the City College and improve the quality of their lives through its market sensitive courses, profess...
  • Over 100 Tabuk City children benefit from free circumcision project

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 2 (PIA) -- More than 100 young children from Tabuk benefited from the free circumcision project over the weekend. The project was part of the free inter-agency medical outreach sponsored by the provincial government, the Philippine Army, medical groups, rural health units, Rotary and Lion’s Clubs. Cadets from the Kalinga Apayao State College (KASC) were also tapped to provide assistance to the patients. The sponsoring groups also distributed free medicines to ...
  • Over 2,000 volunteers in Lanao del Norte’s GK Bayani Challenge 2013 mobilized

    TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, April 2 (PIA)— A total of 2,078 volunteers with 70 teams registered in the Gawad Kalinga (GK) Bayani Challenge in Lanao del Norte, its site at Poblacion, Sapad town, this province, for the disaster prone area and indigent families as recipients to this project. The 32 units built during the weeklong GK Bayani Challenge (BC) from March 23-27, 2013 in Sapad is located in Poblacion in a two-hectare lot donated by the Ali family through Vice Governor Irma Ali of the provin...
  • Taguig distributes education vouchers to high school grads

    TAGUIG CITY, April 1 (PIA) - - More than 7,000 Taguig City high school graduates this year received education voucher worth P5,000 each from the city government. Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano said the voucher may be used to pay for their college tuition fee or other miscellaneous fees . She believes that no student in Taguig should ever be prevented from studying in college by their mere station in life. “I also believe that education is a right, not a privilege. And I hope that the educ...
  • North Cotabato’s 2013 Kids Peace Summer Camp kicks off

    COTABATO CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- Hundreds of grade five pupils from various public schools in the town of Pikit, North Cotabato, are participating in the three-day Kids Peace Summer Camp at the poblacion from April 1-3. The Kids Peace Summer Camp is an annual program being undertaken and funded by the North Cotabato provincial government under Governor Emmylou “Lala” Talino-Mendoza for three years now with the cooperation and support of the provincial office of the Department of Education (...
  • GK’s Bayani Challenge gives new hope for Cateeleños

    CATEEL, Davao Oriental, April 1 -- Taking the challenge of changing lives and bringing hope to those in need, 610 volunteers from across the country assisted the building of shelters for typhoon victims in Cateel during the five-day Gawad Kalinga Bayani Challenge 2013. The volunteer event also hoped to support the Davao Oriental provincial government’s Building Back Better Movement to assist typhoon Pablo victims build new homes. The five-day activity which started last March 23 up to Mar...
  • CSC to enhance skills of supervisors

    ILOILO CITY, April 1 (PIA6) -- Supervisors in government service will have a chance to improve their management skills with the Training on Supervisory Development Course (SDC) offered by the Civil Service Commission(CSC). The training aims to enhance the quality of supervisors to ensure sustainability efforts directed toward employee empowerment in the service. This is in line with the CSC’s strategic objective of developing competent and credible civil servants, by conducting programs to e...
  • OWWA-12 invites OFWs, dependents to avail free computer training

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, April 1 (PIA) -- The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration-12 here is urging Overseas Filipino Workers and their dependents in the Soccsksargen Region to use their free time wisely this summer and avail of the agency's Information Technology (IT) Program. The OWWA-12 Community Technology and Learning Center (CTLC) located at Koronadal City continues to conduct training weekly from Mondays – Fridays at 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to cater to interested applicants. Th...
  • Feature: 4Ps: A partner in strength for single mothers

    CEBU CITY, April 1 (PIA) -- An African proverb says that it takes a village to raise a child. But for some Filipino families, it took a government program to help them raise their children. Nieves Labrado, 38, of Orlandao, Basay, Cebu found it hard to move on with her life after her husband of 13 years left her for another woman. Nieves was left alone to care for her three children ages 13, 9, and 7 years old. But Nieves did move on, thanks to the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilino Program (4Ps), th...
  • DOLE launches 4th wave Skills Registry System in Central Luzon

    CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, April 1 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has launched the 4th wave of its Skills Registry System (SRS) for 23 towns and two cities of Central Luzon covering . Included under the new SRS are Dilasag, Dinalungan, and San Luis in Aurora; Abucay, Dinalupihan, Hermosa, and Morong in Bataan; Obando, Pandi, San Miguel and San Jose Del Monte City in Bulacan; Bongabon, Guimba, Jaen, and Sto. Domingo in Nueva Ecija; Apalit, Guagua, and Mabalacat City ...
  • DOLE advises college grads to visit job websites

    ILOILO CITY, March 31(PIA6) -- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Western Visayas OIC Regional Director Salome Siaton advised fresh college graduates who are looking for work to visit or log on to PHIL-JobNet or their agency’s website which is www.dole.gov.ph as the first crucial step in their quest to enter the world of work. By doing so, Siaton said a jobseeker can register as a job applicant and then have his or her skills matched with available jobs. This happens when a registere...
  • DSWD feeds 84,265 kids in the Ilocos region

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, March 31 (PIA1) --At least 84,265 day care children in region 1 benefitted from the Supplementary Feeding Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Ilocos as of this month. Iryn D. Cubangbang, DSWD information officer said this food supplementation, which is in the form of hot meals served during break time, contributed to their enhanced health and nutrition, and increased consumption of vegetable viands. For Pangasinan, 41,058 bene...
  • DOH celebrates World TB Day 2013

    CEBU CITY, March 31 (PIA) -- The Department of Health's Center for Health Development-7 (DOH-CHD-7) celebrated World TB Day 2013 Monday, March 25 with the theme “Stop TB-Makialam”. DOH-CHD-7 had a memorandum of agreement signing with 12 local government units in Cebu for the TB Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (TB-DOTS) facility enhancement during a program held at Sarrosa Hotel. The LGUs are: Toledo City, Boljoon, Balamban I & I, Daanbantayan II, Cebu Province, Mabolo & Luz Healt...
  • News Feature: DSWD evaluates Pantawid scholars in Central Visayas

    DUMAGUETE CITY, March 30 (PIA) -- “Sometimes it’s a choice between to have lunch or have a book photocopied," says Churchel Avila of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental one of the 19 students from the Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in the province that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) granted college level scholarship through its Students Grant-Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation (SGP-PA). "We do extra research time at the library because we cannot afford an internet...
  • BCBC,MGB conduct media lecture for students, info officers

    BAGUIO CITY,March 29 (PIA) -- The Baguio Correspondents and Broadcasters Club (BCBC) and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau – Cordillera conducted a media lecture seminar as part of the BCBC media camp here last Holy Tuesday. BCBC President Roderick Osis said the media lecture is conducted with the MGB’s Synchronized Information Communication and Education(SICE) Team composed of information officers of the different mining companies and the Mass Communication and Development Communicat...
  • Policewomen role in peacekeeping, governance cited in forum

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 29 (PIA) -- The role of policewomen in governance and peacekeeping was underscored by the top official of the Police Regional Office (PRO8). Police Chief Superintendent Elmer Soria, PRO8 regional director paid tribute to the 120 policewomen-participants of the Women’s Month Forum and Gender and Development (GAD) planning workshop held at the PRO8 Matapat Hall, Monday, March 25. Soria told his women audience that his leadership “acknowledges the importance of str...
  • First Agta school produces pioneer graduates

    NAGTIPUNAN, Quirino, March 28 (PIA) -- The Diuryong Elementary School at Sitio Dionuan, Dicimungal here, the first ever school exclusively for the Agtas in the country, hold its first commencement exercises with at least 10 pupils as its pioneer graduates. Alona David, the class valedictorian thanked the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, provincial government of Quirino and the Asisi Foundation for making education accessible to the Agtas. She said she wants to be a teacher so ...
  • TESDA awards C4TP certificates

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, March 28 (PIA) -- Three hundred youths from the first district of Samar marched at the Samar College Auditorium, Catbalogan City, Wednesday to recieve their Cash for Training Program (C4TP) certificates worth P20,000. Rolando Juanillo, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) Director in his speech said that the government through its Daang Matuwid thrust aims to empower the youth with skill for wage or self employment. “We wish you to get skills ...
  • Feature: The Lady in Red

    When multi-awarded Cagayano social worker Edna T. Junio finally hangs her fiery red work uniform anytime this year, she knew it is time to serve herself. All these years, she has been thrown into the center of eerie howling winds and turbulent flood waters during calamities trying to save lives and serving the victims the best way she could. A ray of sunshine in any gloomy day, she has perfected the art of compassion, understanding and rationalizing the various situations her clients are thro...
  • Provincial Youth Summit set on April 3 and 4

    BONTOC, Mountain Province, March 28 (PIA) -- A provincial youth summit is scheduled on April 3 and 4 as one of the activities in celebration of the 46th Foundation Day of Mt. Province and the 9th Cultural and Lang-ay Festival. Participants to this summit to be held at the Multi-Purpose Building here are the Sangguniang Kabataan officials and in-school youth province wide. Provincial Population Officer Shirley Chiyawan said that on the first day, April 3, will be the presentation of Young A...
  • DOH-NCR issues health warnings this Holy Week

    QUEZON CITY, March 28 (PIA) -- The Department of Health-National Capital Region (DOH-NCR) issued a warning to metro residents who will be spending vacation this Holy Week against summer diseases like diarrhea, sore eyes, headaches and flu. In a statement, DOH-NCR Regional Director Eduardo C. Janairo said that these diseases come with the summer season. “Let us take proper precautionary measures to avoid suffering from any of these illnesses and spending more time in the hospital rather tha...
  • Job fair in northwestern Cagayan has 556 applicants

    SANCHEZ MIRA, Cagayan, March 28 (PIA) -- A total of 556 job applicants registered during the two-day job fair that was conducted on March 21-22 held at the Cagayan State University (CSU) – Sanchez Mira Campus. The activity, which was jointly conducted by the Local Government Unit of Sanchez Mira, CSU, and the DOLE, was participated by 14 local employers and 10 overseas recruitment agencies. The job vacancy offerings totaled to 3,937 in which 581 were for local employment and 3,356 for ove...
  • 2 Ifugao POs undergo community enterprise dev’t. training

    BANAUE, Ifugao, March 27 (PIA) -- Members of two people’s organizations (POs) in the province who are beneficiaries of livelihood projects under the Office of the Presidential Affair for the Peace Process (OPAPP) recently finished a three-day training workshop on Community Driven Enterprise Development (CDED). Chester Bahatan, president of the Hibla People’s Organization (HPO) based in this municipality and Velasco Cruzaldo, president of the Kabunyan People’s Organization (KPO) in Hingy...
  • Tuguegarao archbishop emphasizes Church’s preferential option for the poor

    TUGUEGARAO CITY (PIA), March 27 – Archbishop Sergio Utleg of the archdiocese here emphasized on the Catholic Church’s thrusts such as the preferential option for the poor and the perpetuation of the spirit of stewardship over God’s creation. Archbishop Utleg said while people live in a very competitive world, the poor and the neglected have to be given attention for them to cope with life’s challenges. “We (the Church) may not be able to help build houses for them but we have gone a ...
  • Prevalence of malnutrition among Antique's pre-school kids down, says FNRI

    SAN JOSE, Antique, March 27 (PIA6 ) - - The prevalence of underweight pre-school children (0-60 months old) in Antique was down, removing the province from being consistently on top and putting it at No.5 in Region 6, according to Food Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI). Jocelyn Morano, Nutritionist-Dietician of the Antique Provincial Health Office, reported during the meeting of Provincial Nutrition Committee that based on the latest FNRI data the nutritional status of pre-school children ...
  • Feature: Blessida Garcia-Diwa, diminutive giant

    Standing at 4’10”, Blessida Garcia-Diwa is a giant of a woman. Today, the loss of the nursing profession is the gain of the business sector and tourism industry where our main woman shines brightly even in the midst of adversaries from both sectors. Growing up in dusty yet proud Barangay Ugac Norte in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, Blessida has always been an empowered woman even when the word has yet to be invented. Writing her story is like writing a book with a sequel. Her accomplishment...
  • MSWDO-Lagawe partners with religious group, community to address Children In Conflict with the Law

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, March 27 (PIA)--In an effort to help address Children In Conflict with the Law (CICL) cases in this capital town, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) here partnered with a religious group and the community. Carmen Pantalen of the MSWDO said that their office coordinated with Christ is the Answer Church (CITAC) and the community who assisted them in coming up with plans to rehabilitate about 27 children. The CITAC provided food and gave t-shirts to ...
  • DSWD7 to gather IOs for poverty reduction project

    CEBU CITY, March 27 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) in Central Visayas will gather the Municipal Information Officers in Negros Oriental to a seminar workshop for its Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Project on April 3-4, 2013 in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. The training aims to promote each locality’s communication strategies and look for an effective approach to reduce poverty ...
  • Feature: A Rose Like No Other

    The national hero could have engaged her in a fierce debate over a flickering light of a lamparita under a full- bloomed Indian mango tree with flirting fireflies hovering. She could have argued her case, her disposition, actually, that the hero’s heroine, the epitome of Filipina submissiveness, Maria Clara, does not exist anymore. “Women then were timid, hesitant to speak their heart out. Not anymore,” said this mother of two and an academically-glamorous grandma of three. When she said...
  • PHL, one of the best places to be a woman - PCW

    NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, March 27 (PIA6) -- The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) in its statement for the 2013 Women’s Month Celebration proudly cited that the Philippines is listed as one of the best places to be a woman. This, according to the 2012 Gender Gap Index (GGI) survey conducted by the World Economic Forum, the statement said. The GGI examines the gap between women and men in four fundamental categories: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health ...
  • Feature: Publisher, unedited

    Her name alone evokes serenity and goodwill, possibly culled from one of the world’s greatest tableau ever, the Nativity. Her mother, a certified educator, came from one of Tuguegarao City’s famous clans whose women are known to be compassionate at the right place and feisty when provoked. For Maria Belen Lingan Barias-Lim, family comes first. This was the reason why in the early 1980s, she exchanged a rather progressive and challenging career as a professor of the University of the Philip...
  • Rising from the ruins of ‘Pablo’

    BAGANGA, DAVAO ORIENTAL, March 26 -- Approaching from Caraga town, the idyllic roadside towards the neighboring Baganga has started to turn green. Various weeds and shrubs in abundance crept and have almost covered an assortment of felled trees, mostly coconut. Along the road, piled coconut lumber are primed as housing material for permanent shelter and other serviceable structures for Typhoon Pablo victims. The once beautiful scenery in this side of the east coast is almost back to what ...
  • 11 hired on the spot in Kalinga town jobs fair

    RIZAL, Kalinga, March 27 (PIA) -- Eleven of 80 job seekers mostly male applicants from this municipality who applied for overseas employment in a recen job fair here were hired on the spot. The job fair was held as part of the celebration of the Pinikpikan festival. Alexander Gumabol, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) provincial officer, said the activity was organized by the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of Rizal in coordination with DOLE.He said five recruitment agenci...
  • GK Bayani Challenge in Compostela ends on a happy note

    COMPOSTELA, COMVAL, March 27 (PIA) -- On the culmination of the five-day Gawad Kalinga Bayani Challenge 2013 in Compostela town in Compostela Valley Province, children joined young volunteers in cheering house workers to go on doing the finishing touches of houses. Even Gov. Arturo T. Uy got enticed with the sway and joined them in dancing the tune of GK Bayani Challenge theme song entitled, “Walang Imposible” with which the children of families of existing GK homes have come to know ...
  • 3rd ‘Dugtong Buhay’ collects 54 blood bags

    ROXAS CITY, Capiz, March 27 (PIA) -- Fifty–four bags of blood were collected from various voluntary blood donors in the recent bloodletting activity of the Capiz Association of Government Public Information Officer’s Inc. (CAGPIO) at the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) – Capiz Chapter here. PRC – Capiz Blood Service representative Ray Martinez said “Dugtong Buhay” has the biggest number of blood bags collected from among the six mass blood donation (MBD) activities for the month of Marc...
  • DOLE-10, ILO-IPEC train anti-child labor advocates on knowledge sharing system

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, March 27 (PIA) --- Around 50 anti-child labor partners and advocates in Northern Mindanao have undergone a hands-on training on the use of the Child Labor Knowledge Sharing System (CLKSS) on Tuesday. The CLKSS orientation and training was conducted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office 10 in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC). The CLKSS is a new web portal...
  • Women’s Congress hold lecture on breast cancer

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 27 (PIA) -- Cancer is just a disease and like any disease it can be cured. Thus said Dr. Noreza C. Costibolo, Internist/Oncologist, when she discussed the topic on breast cancer to an audience of women during the Women’s Congress held Tuesday, March 26 at the Social Hall of the Department of Education (DepEd) City Division in Tacloban City. People normally associate cancer with death but according to Costibolo the disease can be cured with early diagnosis and prop...
  • Bulakenyo OFW repatriates from Kuwait benefit from DOLE’s Nego-Kart program

    MALOLOS CITY, Bulacan, March 27 (PIA) -- Five Bulakenyo Overseas repatriates from Kuwait recently benefitted from the latest livelihood assistance given by the Negosyo sa Kariton (Nego-Kart) program of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Labor regional information officer Jerry Borja said that each beneficiary received a vending cart, livelihood tools and raw materials amounting to P75,000. Meanwhile, the provincial government of Bulacan provided its counterpart assistance of P18,750 fo...
  • Labor department issues Holy Week pay rules

    QUEZON CITY, March 26 (PIA)--The Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) reminded private sector employers to abide by the proper pay rules for their employees who will work on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Black Saturday. Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, in a statement said, the DOLE had earlier issued a labor advisory promulgating the implementing guidelines, specifically on the pay rules, that shall apply as mandated by Proclamation No. 459 on the Payment of Wages for th...
  • 2,000 poor families seek health services in the Bayani Challenge

    STO. TOMAS, Isabela, March 26 (PIA) – More than 2,000 families sought health services in the medical, dental and surgical mission conducted as part of the 2013 Bayani Challenge here, spearheaded by the Department of Health – Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Region 2, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of this town, the Provincial Government of Isabela and the Cagayan Valley Medical Center (CVMC). Dr. Babilyne Agagon, municipal health officer, said most of the families who ...
  • 449 Baguio ALS learners pass Accreditation and Equivalency Test

    BAGUIO CITY, March 26 (PIA) - - Poverty, physical incapacity and even serving penalty behind bars are no longer hindrance for a child, out-of-school youths or even adults to finish basic education and continue a higher degree of learning with the Department of Education’s (DEPED) Alternative Learning System. The recently released result of the December 2012 ALS Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) examination showed that a total of 449 Baguio City - ALS Division learners passed their exami...
  • Ifugao town notes best practices in 4Ps implementation

    KIANGAN, Ifugao, March 26 (PIA)-- Some best practices learned during the implementation of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in the municipality in 2012 can be strengthened to better program execution this year. Victoria P. Dines, the Municipal Link (ML) assigned by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here, said that among the best practices include the monitoring of children’s attendances in school which is made easier in coordination with the De...
  • DepEd renews partnership with Rappler for 2013 Palaro

    QUEZON CITY, March 26 -- The Department of Education has renewed its partnership with Rappler, Inc., a media organization of veteran journalists, as its official social media partner for the 2013 Palarong Pambansa set in Negros Oriental this April, a statement from DepEd said. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro and Rappler Chief Executive Officer and Executive Editor Maria Ressa were present in the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of agreement on behalf of their respective organizations...
  • DOH conducts training on NCD interventions B

    PAGADIAN CITY, March 26 (PIA) – The Department of Health-Center for Health and Development (DOH-CHD), Zamboanga Peninsula has conducted a training on the package of essential non-communicable disease (NCD) interventions for primary health facilities in low resource settings at Guillermo Hotel this city. Sixty one “Doctors to the Barrios” (DTTBs) and Public Health Nurses (PHN) deployed in the different municipalities in Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte attended the said training. ...
  • Abad: No budget cut for state universities, colleges

    MANILA, March 26 -- Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad emphasized that state universities and colleges (SUCs) did not suffer a budget cut this year, but were instead given a total of P37.1 billion in 2013, 44 percent higher than their total allocation in 2012. Abad confirmed this in the wake of recent reports that decried alleged budget cuts imposed on SUCs. “To say that we decreased the budget for SUCs is grossly inaccurate. As a matter of fact, the Aquino administration gave...
  • Gender Equality Committee launches guides for gender fair media

    QUEZON CITY, March 26 -- The Gender Equality Committee, led by the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), launched three documents called for by R.A 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women (MCW) on March 22 in Quezon City in a bid to address women’s issues and concerns in the news and entertainment media. These are the Code of Ethics for Media, Gender Equality Guide and Guidelines to Protect Women from Discrimination in Media and Film. ...
  • DepEd Kalinga reiterates use of mother tongue in Grades 2, 3

    RIZAL, Kalinga, March 26 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) Division Office here directed school heads to focus on using the mother tongue for Grades 2 and 3 in classroom instruction. Kalinga Schools Division Superintendent Carolyn Verano in her message during the recent 'Pinikpikan' festival here said pupils have to master the mother tongue while in their early grades so that they can understand and relate themselves to their environment and the things they learn in the classroom. Wi...
  • DOLE 7 to assist 4Ps graduating student-beneficiaries in Cebu, NegOr

    CEBU CITY, March 26 (PIA) –The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will provide services to help the poorest of the poor families nationwide especially those who are set to graduate this year from government’s conditional cash transfer program, or Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. “The government’s thrust now is to adopt the convergence of services to help poor household-recipients of the government’s poverty alleviation program especially those who are set to graduate from ...
  • C. Visayas drops to 5th place in no. of child laborers, DOLE says

    CEBU CITY, March 26 (PIA) -- Labor Assistant Secretary Gloria Tango said much needs to be done to eradicate child labor in the region, even as Central Visayas dropped a notch lower from 4th to 5th rank among regions in the country beset by the problem. “Though it is welcome news that from fourth placer previously, Central Visayas has now been ranked number five among regions with the most number of child laborers, the major problem lies with the volume of child laborers in the country and in ...
  • 16 scholarship grants available for children of WV GSIS members

    ILOILO CITY, March 26 (PIA6) -- Sixteen college scholarship grants are available for children of members of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) for Academic Year 2013-2014 according to Manager Eleanor Gregorio of the Iloilo Branch. Of the sixteen, it is not yet known how many will be allocated to the different GSIS branches in Western Visayas but they are already accepting applications under the College Scholarship Program (GSP) for the next school year. The program provides an opp...
  • Youth Center to rise in Aklan

    KALIBO, Aklan, March 26 (PIA6) -- A ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of the Aklan Youth Center was held here recently at Barangay Nalook, Kalibo, Aklan. The putting up of the center is in line with Aklan’s continuing implementation of programs for the welfare of Aklanon children and in compliance with Republic Act 9344 or the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act, according to Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez. At the ground-breaking ceremony, the governor revealed that the youth cent...
  • NEDA: Phl ranks 11th among 187 countries in Human Development Index progress list

    QUEZON CITY, March 26 (PIA) -- The Philippines ranks 114th among 187 countries, with a medium Human Development Index (HDI) at 0.654 as of 2012, recent report from the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) said. The report added that the country continues to rank relatively higher in human development than other ASEAN member countries and is also making progress in the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). HDI is a composite index of health (i.e., life expectancy),...
  • Tuguegarao City sustains zero rabies cases campaign

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, March 25 (PIA) – The City Veterinary Office (CVO) of Tuguegarao City has announced that the city has zero human death case from year 2010 onwards because of intensified campaign and linkages to partner agencies through barangay and school fora. In a press conference, Dr. Pastor C. Tumaliuan of CVO said every year their office goes to every barangay to give pet vaccine. “The vaccination is not only for the protection of human but also for animals because rabies is a disea...
  • Laguna residents benefit from subsidized water connections

    BINAN CITY, Laguna, March 26 (PIA) -- Residents of marginalized communities in this city have gained greater access to affordable and potable piped water through Laguna Water’s “Water for the Community” or “Patubig para sa Barangay” Program. The water operator servicing the cities of Binan, Cabuyao, and Sta. Rosa, and Manila Water Foundation, together with the local government, recently awarded certificates as proof of the service connections granted to over 130 households in the vil...
  • DSWD mobilizes workers to ensure proper Program implementation

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Mar. 26 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 10 here has reiterated its call to all Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (Pantawid Pamilya) workers to make it clear that politicians or parties have no control over Pantawid Pamilya and other programs of Department. Lawyer Araceli F. Solamillo, DSWD Field Office 10 Regional Director, said both beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries must be accurately informed on the selection and delistin...
  • Ifugao Nutrition Council to hold search for Green Banner Award

    TINOC, Ifugao, March 26 (PIA) - - The Provincial Nutrition Council (PNC) is set to conduct the provincial search for Green Banner Award (GBA) starting next month. Dr. Mary Josephine Dulawan, Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (PNAO), said members of the PNC technical working group will be going to the different towns for the municipal evaluation of local program initiatives (MELPI) for 2012. The MELPI evaluation is conducted every year to evaluate the nutrition programs being implemented...
  • Be relevant, GK Director tells Southern Leytenos

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Mar. 26 (PIA) -- The National Executive Director of Gawad Kalinga urged participants to the Bayani Challenge here Sunday night to be consistently part of a nationwide effort to wipe out poverty in the country. Speaking at the public plaza here before hundreds of enthusiastic volunteers who braved the searing heat of the sun so aggregates can be transported from the highway up to Josefina II GK village a kilometer away, GK Executive Director Luis Oqueniana reminded...
  • Life of every homeless family will improve with GK in Cam Norte

    DAET, Camarines Norte, March 26 (PIA) – “The life of every homeless family will improve with the Gawad Kalinga (GK) Bayani Challenge 2013,” according to Zarena Bacerdo, 21, a resident of Barangay Daculang Bolo, San Lorenzo Ruiz town in this province. Zarena is one of the beneficiaries in the GK Friendship Village in Barangay Laniton, San Lorenzo town during the holding of the 8th Bayani Challenge this year from March 23-27. She said that through the unity, the building of houses will be...
  • DOLE 6 launches Intermediaries Academy

    ILOILO CITY, March 26 (PIA) -- The office of the Department of Labor and Employment here in Western Visayas launched a training program that would further upgrade the capabilities of its intermediaries in the region as well as strengthen its partnership with them. Dubbed “DOLE Intermediaries Academy,” the program was launched with DOLE 6 Director Ponciano Ligutom turning over the modules of the training courses to Jean Genosa of the Contractor and Sub Contractors Group on behalf of the inte...
  • Lady police chief urges women to show capabilities

    PAGADIAN CITY, March 26 (PIA) -- Police Superintendent Christine Sorosa-Tan, chief of police of Molave, Zamboanga del Sur, encouraged all women during the weekly PIA forum held on Friday at the Anastacia Pensionne House in this city to show their capabilities. She said several women are now holding top positions in government and private institutions. Tan said that women should not underestimate oneself but show and prove what women is capable of. "What men can do, you can do it also,” Tan...
  • Lang-ay Festival set April 1-9; features 'Moto-cause'

    BAGUIO CITY, March 25 (PIA) - - Mountain Province is set to celebrate its 46th founding anniversary in the Lang-ay festival on April 1-9 showcasing the province's rich cultural heritage , and for the first time will feature a “Moto-Cause” event - a double fun and adventure bike race with a humanitarian cause. Provincial Information Officer Angel Baybay, in a Department of Tourism (DOT) -led kapihan forum here, disclosed that aside from the cultural presentations, street dancing and...
  • Various stakeholders pledge support to TB control

    ILOILO CITY, March 25 (PIA) -- Various government agencies, hospitals, and private entities in Western Visayas pledged support to the Department of Health (DOH) National Tuberculosis (TB) Control Program and hospital engagement for TB control. Dr. Jimmilly R. Aguiling, DOH-6 National TB Program ((NTP) regional medical coordinator, said the turn-out of participants in the ceremonial signing was overwhelming. “Based on the comprehensive unified policy on TB, we have 23-24 members, but we are g...
  • Nueva Vizcaya to build 14 housing units

    DUPAX DEL NORTE, Nueva Vizcaya, March 25(PIA) -- The provincial government has allotted P1.4 million for the purchase of materials needed for the construction of 14 housing units in Barangay Sto. Domingo in Bambang town. Willy Delizo, executive assistant on housing, said the housing units will be given to poor families to relocate them from their temporary habitats classified as danger zones. “With this housing project, they can be assured of safe, secure, and comfortable environment to live...
  • Novo Vizcayanos join Bayani Challenge 2013

    DUPAX DEL NORTE, Nueva Vizcaya, March 25 (PIA) -- Hundreds of volunteers from various municipalities in this province joined Saturday’s program which started the five-day volunteerism event that aims to build houses, refurbish schools, provide free medical services for poor families and regreen the environment, among others. These volunteers used their own resources like fare, food, time. Governor Luisa Cuaresma, along with town officials led by mayor Clarita Egmin-Epi inspired the participa...
  • Gawad Kalinga: Every Filipino deserves a home

    ILOILO CITY, March 25 (PIA) -- Every Filipino deserves a safe and peaceful place called home. This was conveyed by Gawad Kalinga Iloilo Provincial Head Maria Rosa Cacho to about 3,000 volunteers during the kick off of the 2013 Bayani Challenge in New Lucena, Iloilo on March 23. “Home is a safe place to live, a place of peace and a place for rest. There should be a home for all Filipinos,” said Cacho. She said that there should be a sanctuary for every Filipino and not just for a few. For...
  • RDC-12 finds Kalahi-CIDSS projects excellent

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, March 25 (PIA) -- School buildings constructed under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Project are found “excellent”, the Regional Development Council (RDC) 12 reported Friday. The Regional Project Monitoring Committee of the RDC 12 randomly inspected several development projects, including those implemented through Kalahi-CIDSS Project of the Department of Social Welfare and Deve...
  • Women advocates push for gender equality

    LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, Mar. 25 (PIA) -- More women are asserting their rights to equal opportunities in the workplace which was formerly dominated by males. Promoting equality in the workplace was the focus of the gender awareness seminar that women advocates at the Pangasinan State University (PSU) conducted last week to mark the National Women’s Month. The seminar was attended by teaching and non-teaching personnel with no gender-related training from the nine PSU campuses located in Alami...
  • “Politics cannot stop 4Ps”, says DSWD

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, March 24 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has assured the public that the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) will never be stopped just because of political rivalries and intrigues. Assistant Secretary Javier R. Jimenez, during his visit here, said it is unfair for the beneficiaries to be deprived of the opportunity to improve their status in life through the poverty alleviation programs of the government just because of some politicians w...
  • SSS offers loan assistance to support children’s education

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Mar 24 (PIA) -- Qualified members of the Social Security System who face difficulty in sending their children to school may get an educational assistance of up to P15,000 per semester. Francis Pentecostes, SSS assistant branch head, said members with a monthly income of P15,000 may apply for the SSS educational assistance loans provided they have up-to-date payments of previous SSS loans and at least 36 monthly contributions. The loan can be granted to the SSS mem...
  • Lawmaker seeks media's help to advocate value of farming

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Mar. 24 (PIA) -- Help government inculcate the value of tilling the soil among the young. This was the impassioned appeal made by Rep. Roger Mercado to local media practitioners in a press conference Monday shortly after the State of the City Address (SOCA) of city Mayor Maloney Samaco. “Please help in convincing our young people to have their hands dirtied in agricultural undertaking,” the lone district lawmaker said. Mercado said he believes poverty can be...
  • Health office pushes for multi-sectoral approach vs dengue

    BAGUIO CITY, March 24 (PIA) - - The Baguio City Health Services Office (HSO) in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH) is pushing for a new strategy against the dreadful dengue virus, now a year-round concern. Last week, the City HSO invited representatives from government line agencies, civic organizations, and barangay leaders attended a “Sector Wide Approach (SWAP) to Dengue" briefing and consultation. Assistant City Health Officer Dr. Rowena Galpo called on a multi-sectoral ...
  • DOLE establishes school-based PESO in Bulacan school

    SAN JOSE DEL MONTE CITY, Bulacan, March 24 (PIA) -- The Holy Family International College in San Jose Del Monte City became the latest educational institution in Bulacan to have a school-based Public Employment Service Office (PESO). DOLE regional information officer Jerry Borja said, “School-based PESOs aim to help students land stable jobs after finishing their studies through career information, pre-employment orientation, and labor education seminars.” They also organize job fairs and ...
  • DOLE-Central Luzon signs Kapatiran Wise TAV partnership with Makati Dev't Corp

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga, March 24 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment in Region 3 (DOLE-3) recently signed a Kapatiran Wise TAV (KWT) partnership agreement with Makati Development Corp (MDC) to intensify its Zero Accident in the workplace advocacy- a first in the construction industry. “KWT - Para sa Mas Ligtas, Malusog, at Produktibong Manggagawa" is a flagship public-partnership program of the DOLE anchored on the International Labor Organization's Work Improvement in Small...
  • Kalinga organizes women council, elects first set of officers

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, March 24 (PIA) –- Women groups here have organized and elected the first officers of the Provincial Local Council of Women (PLCW) to serve as a vehicle to empower the women and mainstream gender and development (GAD) in the province. The PLCW, said Digna Dalutag, PLCW provincial coordinator and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (PSWDO), will serve as the umbrella organization of all women’s group and as a policy-making body for all women development pro...
  • Feature: Modern state-run hospital boosts Pangasinan as wellness center

    The Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) has come a long way, decades after it started as a provincial hospital in 1925, relocated to various sites when the Second World War broke in 1941, and was wrecked by a powerful earthquake in 1990. Now considered a premiere medical center north of Manila, the center boasts of a modern emergency room. It was President Aquino no less who opened the P23-million facility that consists of an animal bite center, quarantine area, a radiology section, operating rooms,...
  • Gov't agencies train on natural, organic farming

    SIQUIJOR, March 23 (PIA) -- Through the spirit of collaboration and partnership, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the provincial government of Siquijor recently hosted a training on organic farming. The Training-Workshop on Natural and Organic Farming System held at the DAR provincial office in Caipilan, Siquijor, Siquijor was conducted under the Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS) consortium...
  • Bayani Challenge 2013 seeks new community heroes

    QUEZON CITY, March 23 (PIA) -- Four years ago, some 200 young persons from Metro Manila and other cities left for Sulu to help build new and better homes for the poor. Some took out savings, others sold cellphones, MP4s and other personal gadgets to raise money for the trip to Panglima Estino: an unfamiliar town where they have no friends nor relatives. These builders were volunteers of Bayani Challenge 2009 who were in Sulu when Abu Sayyaf bandits were snatching foreigners and locals for ran...
  • Best public school teachers of financial education recognized

    QUEZON CITY, March 23 --The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the Department of Education bared the winners in the 2012 National Search for the best public school teachers of savings and financial literacy who received generous financial reward for their effort. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro in a statement identified the national winners who received P100,000 each as Violeta Roson of F. Benitez Elementary School of Makati City, May Villanueva of Sta. Rosa Elementary School of Laguna, ...
  • Elem, high school studes discover robotics world

    CEBU, March 23 (PIA) -- Forty-six public elementary and high school students from Naga City, Cebu experienced three-day robotics training through the Dr. Caridad C. Labe (CCL) Education CentrEx Robotics Team that was held on March 7-9 at the Naga National High School. President of CCL Education CentrEx School, Rachel Labe said “we wanted to promote robotics in as many schools as possible not only for students to have a fun way of applying what they learned in the said subjects, but for them t...
  • Our scholarship program was most generous - Cocofed

    BORONGAN CITY,Eastern Samar, March 24 (PIA) -- Pascual Azura of the Coconut Federation (Cocofed) here said the Cocofed scholarship program then, had the best financial assistance the students ever had in the province. According to him, there were 75 scholars in the province who availed of the program, and are now working productively, in their chosen fields. Among them is the two-termer mayor, of Quinapondan, Atty. Nedie Campoto, the other is Dean Victor Aseo of Visayas College of Agriculture...
  • 249 Filipino returnees arrive anew in Tawi-tawi

    QUEZON CITY, March 23 -- Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman bared that there are 249 more Filipino deportees from Sabah, Malaysia who arrived on March 19 in Tawi-Tawi. In a statement, the DSWD said the deportees were immediately given stress debriefing, counselling services, and relief assistance to augment support for their daily basic needs. As of March 20, a total 1,319 families composed of 3,704 Filipino returnees from Sabah arrived in Tawi-Tawi and Sulu pr...
  • SME Academy for entrepreneurs brings advocacy to Benguet town

    LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, March 22 (PIA) -- The Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Academy brought to this town its advocacy of teaching entrepreneurs on how to keep their business grow and to have successful family business. Around 70 entrepreneurs of this town attended the event held last March 15 at the La Trinidad municipal gym. The activity was in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry and the town’s local government unit as part of the Strawberry Festival celebratio...
  • Ifugao goat raisers attend farmer livestock school on integrated goat management

    ALFONSO Lista, Ifugao, March 22 (PIA)-- Twenty five goat raisers of Barangay Sto. Domingo in this municipality have participated in a Farmer Livestock School on Integrated Goat Management (FLS-IGM) conducted in 28 weeks. Gilbert Caclini, the Agri-Pinoy coordinator, said the activity seeks to promote the adoption of recommended production practices in goat production through the FLS-IGM to increase the income of the farm households and improve resource management capabilities of rural commun...
  • CHED-CAR urges financially-constrained studes to approach school officials

    LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, March 22 (PIA)-- The Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera is encouraging students who are financially- constrained to approach their school officials and ask for special permits to be able to take the examinations. CHED-CAR Assistant Regional Director Ramon Santiago said that students can make arrangements with their schools on how they can avail of special permits for them to take their examinations. Santiago said CHED is strictly obligating schools not to den...
  • DOST turns over digital library to CAR provinces

    LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, March 22(PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology turned over digital libraries to three provinces in the Cordillera Region last week. DOST-CAR Assistant Regional Director Maria Rowena Madarang and Science and Technology Information Institute representative Annie Lyn Bacani signed a memorandum of agreement and turned over three Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Stations, or STARBOOKS to the provinces of Kalinga, Apayao and ...
  • 665 women benefit from tech-voc trainings in Antique

    SAN JOSE, Antique, March 22 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) here reported that 665 women-scholars were trained on several fields on Technical Vocational and Educational Training programs (TVET) last year. “Of the 665 recipients, four were trained in welding and three for refrigeration. This indicates a situation where our women are now taking up courses normally dominated by men,” said Tesda Antique officer-in-charge provincial director Rick M. Ab...
  • 38 GSIS scholarships open for Visayas

    DUMAGUETE CITY, March 22 (PIA) -- Out of the total 200 college scholarship slots available nationwide, the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has allotted 38 slots this year for Visayas applicants. The 200 scholarship slots are made available in National Capital Region (41 slots), Luzon (76), Visayas (38), and Mindanao (45) for school year 2013 to 2014. The program provides an opportunity for state workers to send their children to colleges and universities that provide quality educati...
  • Cagayan de Oro ready for Bayani Challenge 2013

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, March 22 (PIA) -- A series of activities have been set up here for the Bayani Challenge 2013 themed: “Isang Bayan, Isang Bayanihan,” that will take place from March 23 to 27. At least 100,000 volunteers in more than 35 provinces nationwide will gather and simultaneously hold the Bayani Challenge dubbed the biggest multi-sectoral showcase of volunteerism in the country. Jose Mari Oquiñena, undersecretary for special concerns of the Presidential Communications Operatio...
  • Quirino awards 12 outstanding women

    CABARROGUIS, Quirino, March 22 (PIA) -- The provincial government here recently recognized 12 women with exemplary accomplishments as mother, wife and community leaders as outstanding women of Quirino in the recent celebration of Women’s Month dubbed as “Pagpupugay sa mga Kababaihan ng Quirino.” The awardees were Lilia A. Lucena-Aglipay; Remegia B. Caldaera-Aglipay; Fely D. Manuel-Cabarroguis; Belen T. Domingo-Cabarroguis; Gilda G. Reola-Diffun; Dolorita T. Olpindo-Diffun; Gloria J. Fon...
  • DOLE 2 conducts consultation on Kasambahay Law

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, March 22 (PIA) --The Department of Labor and Employment in Region 2 (DOLE-2) is consulting the public concerning the proposed Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 10361 or Kasambahay Law today at Hotel Carmelita, this city. The Kasambahay Law was signed by President Benigno Aquino III on January 18, 2013 and is expected to benefit at least 2.5 million domestic workers. “This is part of the strategy of the DOLE to solicit inputs, recommendations, suggestions, and c...
  • Inauguration of 7th hospital in Rizal to enhance medical services

    Antipolo City, Mar. 22 (PIA) -- Residents of the municipalities of San Mateo and Rodriguez in this province will largely benefit with the inauguration of the seventh provincial government hospital. Rizal Gov. Jun Ynares III, together with other local government officials, will lead the inauguration and blessing of the two-storey, secondary hospital on March 27. Costing P200 million, the hospital is seen to enhance and improve the medical services in both localities. For so long, people here ...
  • Agusan Sur students bag awards in the 10th National Science Quest

    PATIN-AY, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, Mar. 22 (PIA) -- Students from different elementary and high schools in the province bagged various awards in the 10th National Science Quest (NSQ) held last month at the Teachers’ Camp in Baguio City. “Our children are impressive, they showed promising futures as scientists, doctors, and engineers. I have been supporting our students through the various programs and projects the provincial government extends to DepEd because I believe in them and thes...
  • DOH-NCR: Encourage kids to eat healthy and to exercise

    QUEZON CITY, Mar 22 -- In support of the Association of Nutrition Action Officers - National Capital Region's advocacy walk for overweight and obese pre-school and school children called "Hakbang Para Sa Tamang Timbang", Dr. Eduardo C. Janairo called on parents of children aged 5-10 years old to encourage their kids to be physically active and exercise regularly. "Let us start our children early to value the importance of physical activity like riding bikes, playing tag, or playing ball. It h...
  • BFP calls for cooperation of public schools in fire safety standards

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, March 22 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is calling on school heads to comply with the fire safety code. This is after BFP inspected a number of public and private schools in the region and ordered the imposition of fines to 10 out of 29 high school facilities initially covered. BFP 10 Assistant Regional Director for Operations Alan N. Aladano said the most common reason for non-compliance is lack of funds, especially among public schools. He urged school hea...
  • Rabies in Samal: A public health concern

    ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL, March 22 (PIA) -- More than 200,000 undergraduate students of Holy Cross of Babak Inc.(HCBI) gathered for the rabies symposium as part of Rabies Awareness Month Celebration at Babak school campus, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal, March 15. For a better grasp of rabies virus contamination, a film showing on Rabies Case and actual rabies vaccination was made by the staff of the City Veterinary Office in the campus. The symposium was facilitated by the C...
  • GSIS releases P285-M in pension adjustments

    PAGADIAN CITY, March 21 (PIA) - - A total of P285 million intended for pension adjustments has been released by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) to its 45,000 retirees as of February 2013 after reviving its policy in recomputing their pension based on their first day of retirement. Pensioners who retired on or after September 2009 and are in active status as of payment date are covered by the new policy. “The decision to adopt the payment of proportionate pension in 2011 was...
  • DOH on code white alert for Lent

    ILOILO CITY, March 21 (PIA) -- The health facilities of the Department of Health (DOH-6) Center for Health Development will be on code white alert for Lent starting Maundy Thursday until Black Saturday. Dr. May Ann Sta. Lucia, DOH-6 Regional Health Management Staff Coordinator said this during a press briefing on summer diseases program. Sta. Lucia said that under the code white alert status, emergency medicines and supplies are made available at the emergency rooms of hospitals and health f...
  • GK Bayani Challenge kicks off March 23 in Maasin City

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Mar 21 (PIA) -- Southern Leyte is one of the34 sites where the Gawad Kalinga Bayani Challenge will be conducted, specifically in Maasin City. In a phone interview over radio station DyDM, GK head Dr. Jerome Paler said that the eighth Bayani Challenge will start on Saturday, March 23 until the 27, a synchronized activity throughout the identified sites in the country. He disclosed that the kick-off activity will be at the Anatalio Gaviola Plaza, Maasin City on the...
  • DOST holds fora on the effects of iodized salt in processed foods

    BASCO, Batanes, March 21 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) conducted a fora at the Ivatan Conference Hall, Department of Education,on March 12 to campaign for 100 percent iodized salt utilization as a strategy to improve nutritional status of Filipinos. The fora was attended by 29 barangay nutrition scholars in the province, provincial nutrition council members, Department of Health staff, provincial heath staff, and rural health units in the province. The DOST and Food...
  • Ifugao nutrition council bares nutrition-friendly school winners

    MAYOYAO, Ifugao, March 21 (PIA) -- The Provincial Nutrition Council (PNC) has awarded yesterday certificates of recognition and cash prizes to winners of the 2012 search for nutrition-friendly school. Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (PNAO) Dra. Mary Josephine Dulawan lauded the winners and encouraged them to work for the betterment of schoolchildren by promoting nutritious snacks in their respective schools. Mayoyao Central School and the Hapid Elementary School were declared champions i...
  • Kalinga women urged to assert rights

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, March 21 (PIA) –- Women groups in the province are encouraged to promote and affirm their rights. Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Kristian Wandag, in a message during the 2013 Women’s Month celebration here, challenged participants to look into the implementation and observation of the special laws advocating the advancement of women. He said women play an important role in the community since improving the women sector could also lead to the growth of community, for ...
  • DTI 2 holds symposium cum workshop for consumers

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, March 21 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry in Region 2 (DTI-2) conducted a symposium and workshop in celebration of World Consumer Rights Day with the theme, "Consumer Justice Now” on March 15 at Villa Blanca Hotel, Ugac Sur, this city. Atty. Ma. Esperanza C. Bañares, regional director, said that this activity aimed to promote the basic rights of all consumers, demand that these be protected, respected. It also brought to fore protests against market abuses and s...
  • PhilHealth-10 trains Reach Out team in Iligan

    ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, March 21 (PIA) --The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC) has finally been given the opportunity to interact with institutional health care providers and health care professionals as PhilHealth has now made it's zeal to deepen its relationship by creating a new team called PhilHealth Reach Out. Around 60 participants from the Philippine Hospitals Association of Iligan City and Lanao del Norte Chapter were the first to be given Reach Out orientation by P...
  • 32 CSU agri students complete rice production training course

    LEGAZPI CITY, Mar. 21 (PIA) -- Thirty-two agriculture students of Catanduanes State University (CSU) finished their 16-week Students Field School on Integrated Pest Management and Palay Check System on March 16. The field school, the first of its kind at the Catanduanes State University, was conducted from November 2012 to March 13 at the College of Agriculture and Fisheries with the fourth year agriculture students taking up their practicum. Angie A. Villanueva of Calabnigan, Virac, Catandua...
  • News Feature: Child adoption: an answer to a couple’s dream

    LEGASPI CITY, March 21 -- Believing that every child needs a loving and caring family, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) enhances public awareness on the growing number of orphaned, abandoned or neglected Filipino children in need of love and permanent families. In a recent Foster Care and Adoption Forum held at DSWD field office here, Arlene Chua, focal person of the Adoption Resource and Referral Section, explained that the department is gender sensitive. Applicants for ...
  • Pangasinense expectant mothers enjoy free medical services

    DAGUPAN CITY, Mar. 21 (PIA) – Over 200 expectant mothers enjoyed free medical services during the Buntis Congress held at the Provincial Training and Development Center in Lingayen town earlier this month. The Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society, Inc. in the Ilocos Region and the Provincial Health Office (PHO) offered the services to mark the National Women’s Month. In a statement, Dr. Anna Maria Teresa De Guzman, PHO chief, said that the activity intends to instill awareness...
  • OFW dependents may avail themselves of 72 scholarship slots

    ILOILO CITY, March 21 (PIA) -- Seventy two slots are open for dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Western Visayas who want to avail of the scholarship program offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for the school year 2013-2014. Rizza Joy Mapa, OWWA-6 Welfare Officer, said the OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (OFWDSP) is an educational assistance offered to qualified dependents of OFWs who intend to pursue any four-year or five-year baccalaureate degree o...
  • Silay City Health Office holds 3rd Buntis Congress

    SILAY CITY, Negros Occidental, March 21 (PIA) -- The Silay City Health Office, in coordination with the Committee on Women and Family, has initiated the 3rd Buntis Congress 2013, recently , a press release from the city said. The celebration was kicked off by a “Pride Walk” around the city. The program started with the inspirational messages delivered by Silay City Mayor Jose L. Montelibano and City Councilor Rosalinda Caja, chairperson on committee on women and family. The highlight of t...
  • Dipolog celebrates Women’s Month

    DIPOLOG CITY, March 21 (PIA) -- The city government here conducted several activities to celebrate women’s month with the theme, “Kababaihan:Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan.” It kicked off with a volleyball tournament at the City Hall ground. About 200 members of the Local Council of Women (LCW) participated in the Women’s Forum at Barangay Miputak. Atty. Jasmine Pinsoy discussed the Magna Carta for Women to guide and empower them as to their rights and obligations. In line with...
  • Use iodized salt in processed foods – FNRI

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, March 21 (PIA) -- As opposed to the notion that iodized salt can greatly alter texture, taste, and components of processed food, studies of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) show that iodized salt has no significant effect on the pH (acidity), Aw (water activity in food), and moisture content of test processed food products. Czarina S. Martinez of the FNRI said during the orientation of studies on “The Effects of Iodized Salt in Processed Foods in Selected ...
  • DOH releases guidelines for stem cell, cell-based therapy in the country

    MANILA, March 21 -- The Department of Health (DOH) yesterday released the implementing rules and regulations regarding stem cell and cell-based therapy in the country. “Our efforts at regulating the practice of stem cell therapy in this country are aimed at safeguarding the welfare of our patients and the general public by making safe, effective and ethical stem cell modalities and practices are within emerging international and global standards considering the very complex nature of this the...
  • GSIS orients clients on pre-retirement updates

    BASCO, Batanes, March 21 (PIA) -- The Government Service Insurance System from Manila and Region 2 conducted orientations yesterday to clients on retirement updates. The topics discussed were: a) the retirement modes, the difference between Life Endowment Policy and Enhanced Life Policy (ELP); the basis for computation of retirement pay; the retirement laws RA 660 or Magic 87, RA 1616, RA 1146 and briefly RA 8291; and the portability law RA 7699. Vice-president Eduardo Fernandez, of the Luzon...
  • Disaster council, DepEd hold school-based tsunami/earthquake drill

    PAGADIAN CITY, March 21 (PIA) -- The Office of Civil Defense – Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (OCD-RDRRMC) in coordination with the Department of Education conducted on Friday, March 15 its first quarter School-Based Tsunami and Earthquake Drill at Sta. Lucia National High School, this city. An estimated 800 high school students and faculty members participated in the drill. OCD-9 Regional Director and RDRRMC-9 chairperson Adriano D. Fuego said the activity aims to promo...
  • UNFPA official hopes for full implementation of Sultan Kudarat province’s RH Code

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, March 21 (PIA) -- An official of a United Nations group expressed hope for the full implementation of the Reproductive Health (RH) Code in the province of Sultan Kudarat. Florence Tayzon, Philippine assistant representative of United Nations Fund for Population Assistance (UNFPA) said this during the the policy review and strengthening meeting of the Sultan Kudarat Reproductive Health and Population Management Council (SKRHPMC) on Tuesday at a hotel in Ko...
  • Cam Norte violence against women cases decrease

    DAET, Camarines Norte, Mar. 21 (PIA) -- A total of 56 cases were filed in court last year against perpetrators for violations of Republic Act 9262 or Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act, a decreased of five cases compared to the 61 cases recorded in 2011. This was disclosed by P/Inspector Ana Rose A. Domingo, chief of Women’s and Children’s Desk (WCPD) of the Camarines Norte Police Provincial Office (CNPPO) during the “Talakayan sa PIA” featuring “Women’s Month Celebr...
  • Typhoon-displaced women trained on rug-making

    NEW BATAAN, Compostela Valley, March 21 (PIA) -- About 40 women coming from typhoon-displaced families living in bunkhouses in New Bataan engaged in a productive activity through the help of the Compostela Valley Provincial Council of Women (CVPCW). The council of women of the province had tapped the Rural Improvement Club (RIC) to teach the women to weave assorted-color rags into rugs, said Fe Circulado, RIC president in a recent interview, CVPCW has initially provided them with five sac...
  • Brigada kontra dengue lowers cases in Nueva Vizcaya

    BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, March 21 (PIA) -- The organization of task forces in the 15 municipalities in this province had reduced the number of dengue cases, provincial health officials here said. Dr. Arnel Magdirila, assistant provincial health officer, said dengue cases from 2010, 2011, and 2012 dramatically decreased with 1,811, 1,866 and 1,617 cases respectively because of the multi-sectoral efforts being done to control it. “We have good performance because we controlled it in major tow...
  • 4Ps targets 12,758 families in Nueva Vizcaya

    BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, March 21 (PIA) -- The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program(4Ps) will be rounding up at least 12,758 poor families in this province for validation and provision of benefits this year. Marissa Tongdo, 4Ps provincial link said the figure will be subjected for the National Household Targetting System(NHTS) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development(DSWD) in order to check their qualification for the 4Ps. “This figure may be reduced depending on the result of ou...
  • DOLE-Ifugao conducts labor education to 800 graduating studes

    LAMUT, Ifugao, March 20 (PIA)--Personnel of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Ifugao Field Office recently conducted a Labor Education for Graduating Students (LEGS) to 800 students from the four campuses of the Ifugao State University (IFSU) at the Luis Hora gymnasium here. According to Senior Labor and Employment Officer of DOLE-Ifugao Isabelita Codamon, the activity is an annual program to support the placement and career development services of the Guidance and Counseling Center...
  • DepEd endorses kinder curriculum developed for Muslim preschoolers

    MANILA, March 20 -- The Department of Education endorses the Tahderiyyah Curriculum in Islamic community schools operated by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), giving Muslim preschool children equal access to quality kindergarten education. The Tahderiyyah curriculum was developed for five-year old Muslim pupils in schools under the BDA. The standards and competencies of the curriculum are aligned with the kindergarten curriculum implemented in all public schools nationwide, a statement f...
  • Community teams keep eye on health risk family members in Kalinga

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, March 20 (PIA) - - Trained community health teams (CHTs) in this province are closely monitoring on a monthly basis health risk household members identified under the National Household Targeting System (NHTS). The CHTs which were organized last year have finished profiling households identified under the NHTS where data on health risk household members was established for treatment and regular monitoring. Bernadette Andaya, CHD team head for Kalinga, said the approach is ...
  • PhilHealth advises members to update records

    ILOILO CITY, March 20 (PIA) -- Updated PhilHealth records, like the Member Data Record (MDR), are necessary for members to avail themselves of benefits from the National Health Insurance System (NHIS). PhilHealth-6 Chief Dr. Dennis Mas said this is especially important for patients seeking confinement in a PhilHealth-accredited health care provider. “All PhilHealth members must have with them their MDRs, making sure it is updated,” Mas said in a statement. Mas reiterated the polic...
  • Peace council eyes PhilHealth benefits for Muslims in Bohol

    TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, March 20 (PIA) -- The Bohol Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) is looking into how Muslim families now permanently residing in the province can avail of the health benefits under the PhilHealth’s universal coverage program. PPOC Chairman Bohol Gov. Edgar Chatto has earlier directed the Provincial Social Welfare Office (PSWO) to come up with an inventory of all Muslim communities who will be eligible to get the socialized health services. The move was prompted ...
  • Over 400 workers attend brgy health congress in Tabuk City

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, March 20 (PIA) -– More than 400 volunteer barangay health workers (BHW) and barangay nutrition scholars (BNS) attended this year’s Tabuk City Barangay Health Congress held Monday at the People’s Gym, here. The participation of health workers from all 42 barangays affirmed that Tabuk City’s rural health service is on the right track, said Henrietta Bagayao, City Health Officer. Kalinga Congressman Manuel S. Agyao noted this year’s theme “Serving our cl...
  • DOLE-10 to conduct hands-on training on Child Labor Knowledge Sharing System

    CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, March 20 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office 10 will conduct an orientation seminar and hands-on training on Child Labor Knowledge Sharing System (CLKKS) on March 26 at Dynasty Hotel, here. Lawyer Johnson G. Cañete, DOLE-10 Regional Director, said the one-day activity aims to improve collaboration and data sharing among partners and advocates of child labor programs. The CLKKS is an information technology tool for sharing relevant real-t...
  • No to tobacco exhibition - DOH-NCR

    MANDALUYONG CITY, March 20 (PIA) - - The Department of Health Center for Health Development of the National Capital Region (DOH CHD-NCR) conducted a press conference, Tuesday, enjoining partner agencies and stakeholders to strengthen commitment to tobacco elimination and control and condemning tobacco exhibitions in the country. The press conference was in line with the three-day Tobacco Exhibition starting April 20 -22 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City. Panelists in the press conference w...
  • P49.05M of KALAHI-CIDSS projects set for implementation in CAR

    BAGUIO CITY, March 20 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), as part of its core poverty reduction program, is set to implement P49.05 million worth of KALAHI-CIDSS (Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services) projects in nine towns of Abra. DSWD-CAR KALAHI-CIDSS Social Marketing Officer Nerriza Faye Villanueva, in an interview, disclosed that the KALAHI-CIDSS projects is set to benefit 101 barangays in the Abra towns...
  • Kalinga PESU notes no death despite increase in dengue suspects

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, March 20 (PIA) - - The Provincial Epidemiology Surveillance Unit (PESU) here reported an increase in dengue suspects in the province last year but with no recorded death. According to Jose Pardito Jr., provincial epidemiologist, dengue cases increased to 2,177 in 2012 compared to 1,986 in 2011. “Though there were 196 suspects added last year, I am happy to report that there was no recorded death compared to 7 deaths in 2011,” he said. The zero death last year ...
  • 20% off on tricycle fare for expectant mothers in Laoag

    LAOAG CITY, Mar. 20 (PIA) –--If you are pregnant and frequently ride the tricycle in this city, then you can get a 20 percent off on your fare. There’s a caveat though, the discount applies only when the expectant mother rides to the hospital or to a health center for a checkup. Nelinda Erice, gender and development (GAD) officer of the province, said the privilege was part of empowering women as the nation marked Women’s Month. “We wanted our expectant mothers to get the same fare d...
  • DSWD 12 updates day care workers on feeding guidelines, center accreditation, other concerns

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, March 20 (PIA) -- Some 60 officers of day care workers’ organizations across Soccsksargen Region recently underwent capability building training on early childhood care and development (ECCD). Covered in the training, according to DSWD 12 training specialist Remedios Gabriel, were capability building pertaining to ECCD emergencies, implementation of supplementary feeding program and guidelines on the accreditation of day ...
  • Iloilo has 16 devcom awardees

    ILOILO CITY, March 20 (PIA6) -- Sixteen campus paper writers from Iloilo colleges and universities, including high schools, have qualified as recipients of the IWAG Award 2013 given by the Philippine Information Agency in the region. These awardees are graduating editors of their respective publications who have written good developmental stories on top of other criteria which include communications training, involvement in community service and academic performance. Awardees in the coll...
  • Women vital partners in nation-building, says Mayor Cerilles

    PAGADIAN CITY, March 20 (PIA) – Some 1,500 member of the Rural Improvement Club – Women Empowerment (RIC-WEM) in the municipality of Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur commemorated Women’s Month last Friday at the town gymnasium. “This is another opportunity for us to celebrate a day intended for women, an event where we give recognition to their contribution and role in the community,” Mayor Ace William E. Cerilles said. “This is also the day that we give them honor for their exceptio...
  • PSWDO-Ifugao recommends continuous IEC on child abuse law

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, March 20 (PIA)--The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office here recommended the continuous conduct of information education campaign(IEC) on child abuse laws including the popularization of the Children’s Code to deter the cases of child abuse in the province. Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Joyce Niwane said 13 cases of child abuse were reported from January-February 2013 of which out of these cases, eight cases were physical abuse, four ca...
  • P31-M budget set for SPES in Soccsksargen Region

    KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, March 20 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Soccsksargen Region is appealing to local government units and private partners to support the implementation of the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES. DOLE 12 regional director Chona Mantilla told members of the media here that the national government has allotted P31 million for the program that would provide short-term employment t...
  • PhilHealth advises members to update records

    ILOILO CITY, March 20 (PIA6) -- Updated PhilHealth records, like the Member Data Record (MDR) are necessary for members to immediately avail of benefits from the National Health Insurance System (NHIS). PhilHealth-6 Chief Dr. Dennis Mas said this is especially important for patients seeking confinement in a PhilHealth-accredited health care provider. “All PhilHealth members must have with them their MDRs, making sure it is updated,” Mas said in a statement. Mas reiterated the pol...
  • Tarlac Provincial Hospital opens extension building

    TARLAC CITY, March 20 (PIA) -- Tarlac Provincial Hospital (TPH) recently opened its new five storey, 100-bed capacity extension building in an effort to make health services more accessible and affordable. “The edifice houses four operating rooms, an Intensive Cardiac Care Unit (ICCU), delivery rooms, recovery rooms, ward, emergency rooms, pharmacy, and laboratory department. It is also home to the Tarlac Eye Center” Governor Victor Yap said. At present, TPH extension has three hydraulic o...
  • Women play a big role in alleviating poverty – TESDA

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 20 (PIA) -- Training on different kinds of services is already part of alleviating poverty, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) OIC Provincial Director Rodrigo Lacaba disclosed during the Foot Spa Training held at the Maasin City Livelihood and Training Center March 19. At least 30 inspired women participated the livelihood training, as one of the activities lined-up by the city Social Welfare Services Office celebrating Women’s M...
  • East Visayas GAD body to hold community immersion in Maliwaliw

    GOVERNMENT CENTER, Palo, Leyte, March 20 (PIA) -- The Regional Gender and Development Committee of the Regional Development Council of Eastern Visayas is set to conduct a community immersion at the island Barangay of Maliwaliw in Salcedo, Eastern Samar on March 20. National Statistical Coordiination Board Regional head Evangeline Paran said, the community immersion will allow the members of RGADC to interact with the village people regarding the successful project implemented in the area by the...
  • DepED-Dipolog chief pushes for responsible media

    DIPOLOG CITY, March 20 (PIA) – City Schools Division Superintendent Victorina G. Perez has called on the media practitioners here to be responsible in exercising their profession. Speaking during the 48th induction program of the Zamboanga del Norte Press Club (ZNPC), Perez recalled that she was once maligned in a news article written by a media man whom she did not know personally. After that story saw print, the guy came to her in the guise of getting her side and was asking how many copi...
  • 4Ps mothers and women’s org unite for Women’s Day

    CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, March 20 (PIA) —One thousand women from Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and women’s organization joined the women’s day celebration at the Calbayog City convention center on Sunday. March is Women’s Month, and the city government thru City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) conducted one day activity to honor its women with the theme “Kababaihan: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan.” Proclamation No. 224 declares every first week of Marc...
  • New PIA chief is a volunteerism champion

    OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental, Mar. 20 (PIA) -- Jose Mari M. Oquiňena, the new Director General (DG) of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), is a volunteerism champion. Currently holding the post of Undersecretary for Special Concerns at the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), DG Oquiňena founded Pilipinas Natin, a nationwide volunteer program, which brings the message across to all Filipinos that “the Aquino government is committed to its promise to engage the citiz...
  • 74 WVisayas hospitals, health units top in newborn screening

    ILOILO CITY, March 19 (PIA) -- The Department of Health Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD 6) recognized 74 hospitals and local health units in Western Visayas for their outstanding performance in newborn screening. The DOH said that this recognition is an acknowledgement of partners especially local government units, private health facilities that have continuously maintained exemplary performance for the newborn screening (NBS) program. Twenty six of the awardees are from Negros Occide...
  • Nueva Vizcaya funds 10 houses for GK community

    ARITAO, Nueva Vizcaya, March 19 (PIA) -- The provincial government here will be funding the construction of at least 10 housing units for poor families within the Gawad Kalinga community in Barangay Beti here. Wilfred Wross Delizo, provincial government’s executive assistant on housing, said the houses will be built through the convergence of efforts of community volunteers which is expected to be generated with the forthcoming Bayani Challenge 2013. “These housing units will be turned-o...
  • We are what we declare ourselves, says wellness expert

    ZAMBOANGA CITY, Mar. 18 (PIA) - - “We are what we declare ourselves. If we say we are good, we are beautiful, we are young forever then you become one when you begin to believe yourself. Believe that you can be what you want to,” declared beauty and wellness expert Cory Quirino in her keynote speech during the World Women’s Day (WWD) celebration in Zamboanga City recently. City Public Information Officer (PIO) Belen Covarrubias, in a press statement, said hundreds of women from various se...
  • DTI says to resolve complaints in 7 days

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 19 (PIA) -- Consumer complaints under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) jurisdiction can be resolved in seven days through mediation. This was revealed by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regional director Cynthia Nierras where she also said that cases escalated to arbitration will be decided within 20 days after filing. DTI has implemented a harmonized mediation and arbitration procedure to provide speedy redress on consumer complaints on violations o...
  • 800 Dumaguete school kids receive free dental services

    DUMAGUETE CITY, March 19 (PIA) -- Around 800 elementary pupils from Candau-ay and Balugo Elementary schools here availed of the free dental services from the dental operating team of the Philippine Army’s 302nd Brigade together with U.S. Pacific Air Force recently. Under Operation Pacific Angel 2013-1, the free dental activity was conducted as part of capacity-building and experience-sharing efforts to provide medical assistance in Negros Oriental. According to the Army's information office...
  • Bayani Challenge to build 35 homes for the poor in NegOr

    DUMAGUTE CITY, Negros Oriental, March 19 (PIA) -- Some 3,000 volunteers for Negros Oriental’s Gawad Kalinga (GK)-Bayani Challenge are expected to join 100,000 strong Army of Hope Builders nationwide signing up to build homes for the homeless on March 23 to 27 this year. Of the 37 sites in 33 provinces, the municipality of Mabinay, Negros Oriental targets to build 35 houses for the displaced victims of Typhoon Pablo that struck in December 2012. In a five-day event, 35 two-storey row houses ...
  • Phl, Germany inks agreement to deploy Filipino health care professionals to Germany

    MANILA, March 19 -- Filipino health professionals now have the opportunity to work in Germany. This, as the Philippines and the Federal Republic of Germany on Tuesday, March 19, concluded a government-to-government agreement that will facilitate the placement of Filipino health care professionals in employment positions in Germany, a Department of Foreign Affairs statement said. The Agreement was signed by Administrator Hans Leo J. Cacdac of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (P...
  • Ifugao women celebrate Women’s Month; informed on RH law

    ASIPULO, Ifugao, March 19 (PIA) -- Women from all over the province convened in this municipality to celebrate Women’s Month last March 14 and 15. Jane Fortich, president of the Ifugao Women’s Organization, said that aside from the different activities that showcased the different talents or skills of the women, they listened to talks on the reproductive health (RH) law RH programs of the government and on the male involvement on RH during the forum. Congressman Teddy Baguilat ...
  • IPs to get new school buildings by June 2013

    ROXAS CITY, Capiz, March 19 (PIA6) -- Five indigenous people’s (IP) communities in Jamindan, Capiz are among the beneficiaries of the first batch of school buildings project by the Australian Agency for International Development (AUSAID) in the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) program areas. The project with a budget of P7-million are for the IP barangays of Jaena Norte, Jaena Sur, Agloloway , Agbun od and San Juan. ...
  • DSWD-NCR meets barangay chairmen to address street children concerns

    CITY OF MANILA, March 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the National Capital Region (DSWD-NCR) recently met with barangay chairmen of local government units in the region with high incidence of street children. Representatives from the Local Social Welfare and Development Offices, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), barangay chairpersons and their staff participated in the consultation meeting to reduce the numner of street children. DSWD-NCR Regional Direc...
  • News Feature: Unity marathon to boost La Union tourism

    SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Mar 18 (PIA) -- At least 1,000 sports enthusiasts slipped on their running shoes last Saturday, March 16 for the La Union Unity Marathon (LUUM) organized by the iRunners Community. Luum, derived from the Ilocano word which means ripe, was coined to signify the group’s advocacy to promote La Union tourism through running. The event’s organizer said participants were united in saying that the province is ripe for tourism. The organizers said more groups are begi...
  • Young student learns value of caring for others in youth camp

    VIGAN CITY, Mar. 19 (PIA) -- To 13 year-old Patricia Antonette Galanga, being part of a youth camp has taught her to take responsibility for other people especially those who have less in life. Galanga, a sophomore student from Saint Joseph Institute (SJI), was one of 63 students who took part in the 9th Balangayan Camp in Ilocos Sur held last month at the Gawad Kalinga (GK) site in Barangay Tamurong Primero in Candon City. Like other youngsters, Galanga immersed herself in one of the shelter ...
  • PNoy tells PMA Class 2013 to always keep their integrity intact in serving the country and the people

    FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City, March 18 (PIA) - - The 124-strong Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Pudang Kalis (Puso’t Dangal ng Lahing Nagkakaisa) Class of 2013 officially joined the ranks of the Armed Forces of the Philippines with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin declaring their commission as second lieutenants and ensigns during their graduation rites here, Sunday. President Benigno Aquino III in his keynote address said he is honored to be with the graduates to witness and congratu...
  • German labor chief in Manila to witness signing of agreement for Filipino health workers

    MANILA, March 18 -- Dr. Ursula von der Leyen, Federal Minister of Labour and Social Affairs of Germany is here in Manila to witness the signing of the agreement that will allow Filipino health care professional to work in Germany. A statement from the Department of Foreign Affairs said the German Minister will witness the signing of “Agreement Concerning the Placement of Filipino Health Care Professionals in Employment Positions in the Federal Republic of Germany at the Department of Labor a...
  • News feature: Tips for parents, teachers how to deal with cyberbullying

    CEBU CITY, March 18 (PIA) -- Officers from the Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA) Cebu Chapter in a recent Kapihan forum here shared tips on how parents and teachers can deal with cyberbullies and their victims in schools. Bullies focus their attack on the reputation, appearance, and opinion of victims, said Dr. Glenda Basubas, PMHA Cebu Chapter chairperson. The bullies either spread images that have been Photoshopped, are rumor mongering, and spreading private videos primarily thr...
  • Napolcom announces search for model PNP families

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, March 18 (PIA) - -In line with the celebration of National Crime Prevention Week this September, the National Police Commission (Napolcom) here announced today the search for Model PNP Families in the solo parent category or family category. Speaking in the daily radio program “Humangan with PIA,” Atty. Belen Tayaban, the provincial chief of Naplocom, said the search aims to emphasize the importance of strong ties of police officers to their families. It is open to all unif...
  • Ifugao local execs support institutionalization of PESOs

    LAGAWE, Ifugao, March 18 (PIA) -- The local chief executives (LCEs) in the province are very supportive of the institutionalization of the Public Employment Services Offices (PESOs) in their respective areas. The pledge of support and commitment was made by the LCEs during their meeting and orientation on PESOs Institutionalization recently at the Highlander Hotel and Resort in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya convened by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Ifugao Field Office led by its Direct...
  • DOLE-XI allays fears of job loss under Kasambahay law

    DAVAO CITY, March 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment in Region XI (DOLE-XI) has allayed fears of job loss among domestic workers with the passage of RA 10361 or the Kasambahay Law. One of the provisions of RA 10361 is the setting of minimum wages for domestic workers pegged at workers at P2,500 for the National Capital Region; P2,000- for chartered cities and P1,500 for municipalities. Other responsibilities for employers of domestic workers are the requirement of having emplo...
  • 628 Nortehanon to benefit from cash-for-training program

    CATARMAN, Northern Samar, 18 March (PIA) -- Six hundred twenty-eight residents from northern Samar are availing of the cash-for-training program said Virginia Idan, DSWD-8 assistant regional director during the launching here. This was confirmed by Cleta Omega, Tesda-8 acting regional director as the major implementor of the Program. The Program, according to PGNS Information Officer Arlyn Tepace, entitles each beneficiary a training voucher of P20,000 for the training, toolkit, assessment fe...
  • Le Tour de Filipinas to kick off race in Ilocos Norte

    LAOAG CITY, March 18 (PIA) – A global cycling race will kick off in Ilocos Norte for a four-day bikathon that will cover Northern Luzon provinces from April 13-16. Riders from Australia, the Netherlands, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, Iran, Germany, Azerbaijan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Ireland, Korea, Brunei, Portugal, Japan and the United Arab Emirates have expressed interest to join Le tour de Filipinas. Six local teams–the national team, Navy Standard Insurance, LPGMA-American Vinyl, LBC-MVPSF Cycling...
  • PSWDO Kalinga holds training for 4Ps recipients

    TABUK CITY, Kalinga, March 18 (PIA) -- The Kalinga Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) is currently conducting training for selected disadvantaged women including identified Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps beneficiaries in the province. Assistant PSWD Officer Esperita Gamatero said that from the 17 trainees, 11 are 4Ps beneficiaries being trained for free under the cash for training program (C4TP), an anti-poverty convergence project of the Department of Social...
  • PCW holds validation of Women’s EDGE Plan for 2013-2016

    TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 18 (PIA) -- The Philippine Commission on Women is set to conduct a one-day local level validation session for the formulation of Women’s Empowerment, Development and Gender Equality Plan or simply Women’s EDGE Plan for 2013-1016, on March 21, at the Tiara Oriental Hotel in Makati. PCW Chairperson Remedios Rikken said the local level validation aims to localize the strategic gender issues, outcomes and strategies and identify LGU programs that are relevant to or ...
  • GADCC Caraga recognizes partners, GAD advocates

    BUTUAN CITY, March 18 (PIA) – The Regional Development Council – Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (RDC-GADCC) Caraga region will recognize its partners and GAD advocates during the 2013 Women’s Month Celebration culmination program on March 22, this city. The scheduled program is a venue where men and women from regional line agencies, local government units, academe and the private sector will meet and have fun, lawyer Marylin Pintor, GADCC chairperson and Commission on Huma...
  • DAR installs 487 ARBs in Montenegro Estate, Negros Oriental

    DUMAGUETE CITY, March 17 (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Negros Oriental installed 487 qualified agrarian reform farmer beneficiaries to the Montenegro Estate in barangay Lapay, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental recently. DAR-provincial agrarian reform officer (PARO) Stephen Leonidas said the estate comprises of 1,089 hectares of land formerly owned by the Montenegro Estate Incorporated will be used for farming by the famer-beneficiaries. Leonidas emphasized in his message that...
  • MMDA opens summer jobs for students

    MAKATI CITY, March 17 (PIA) -- Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino announced the opening of summer jobs for poor students. Tolentino said this is under the Special Program for the Education of Students (SPES), aimed at giving poor but deserving students and out-of-school youths a learning experience in government service. "SPES is an opportunity for our youths to learn what it is like working in public service and at the same time provide them with fi...
  • TB drug resistant treatment center launched in Cagayan

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, March 17 (PIA) -- The Programmatic Management of Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (PMDT) inaugurated and launched the new TB drug resistant satellite treatment center at the Cagayan Valley Medical Center last March 15. Dr. Vivian Lofranco, operations manager of PMDT, said the satellite treatment center will serve patients from all over Cagayan Valley Region and its neighboring provinces, Kalinga and Apayao. She explained that the center caters to referred drug resistant patients fr...
  • Council for the disabled trains gov’t employees on how to understand PWDs

    BAGUIO CITY, March 17(PIA)-- Focal persons of the different government agencies including some representatives from the private sector became “persons with disability for a day” as part of the capacity building conducted by the Regional Council on Disability Affairs (RCDA). The participants were blindfolded before they walked up and down the stairs and into a crowd and while eating. Some participants had their one hand tied at their back as they ate with only one hand while others ...
  • 274 Maasin youths get C4TP scholarship vouchers

    MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Mar. 17 (PIA) -- Two hundred seventy-four youths of this city received their scholarship vouchers for enrolment in short-term technical-vocational courses during the launch of the Cash for Training Program (C4TP) at Ampil Pensione here, Friday. C4TP is funded by the national government through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in close linkage with the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (Tesda), and the five Tesda-accredited...
  • National Nutrition Council creates Task Force Guraman

    TUGUEGARAO CITY, March 16(PIA) -- The National Nutrition Council 2 (NNC), in coordination with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources recently created a task force named as Balay ni Ifan Task Force Guraman to promote seaweeds as aquatic vegetable to combat malnutrition. Members of the task force include media practitioners, regional line agencies, non-government organizations and religious organizations. Regional Director Rhodora Maestre of NNC said the task force will bring awarene...
  • DILG releases P 18-M Salintubig fund to selected municipalities in CARAGA

    BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 16 (PIA) -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 13 (CARAGA) released P 18 M under the SALINTUBIG Program, known as “Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig Para sa Lahat” to five municipalities in Agusan del Sur, and one municipality eac in Surigao del Sur and Dinagat Islands. The recipient municipalities are Bunawan, Esperanza, Talacogon, Trento and Veruela of Agusan del Sur; Municipality of Cantilan, Surigao del Sur; and Municipality of Tubajon, Province...
  • Ilocano runner receives PMA Athletic Saber

    BAGUIO CITY, March 16 (PIA)-- A seasoned Ilocano runner is this year’s Athletic Saber awardee of the Philippine Military Academy(PMA). Cadet First Class Mark Rolly Bacani bested the 123 other graduating cadets of PMA Puso’t Dangal ng mga Kawal ng Lahing Nagkakaisa or Pudang Kalis Class of 2013 to receive the athletic saber award. On Thursday, prior to the graduation ceremonies, Bacani received the Athletic Saber from Mayor Mauricio Domogan during the Athletic Parade Honors at the Borro...
  • Quezon province 4Ps beneficiaries over 90,000

    CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, Mar 16 (PIA) --The beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) from the two cities and 39 municipalities in Quezon is now 90,347 families according to a March 2013 data. Of the number Pantawid Pamilya households, 6,657 are newly-registered as part of the expansion of the program nationwide, about 4,233 of these beneficiaries come from the municipalities of Lucban, Dolores, Candelaria and Pagbilao- all are implementing the Pantawid Pamilya program for th...
  • Police calls on women to report abusive partners

    BACOLOD CITY, March 16 (PIA6) -- A police official here urged women to report acts of violence committed to them by their partner as a first step to prevent the matter from getting worse. Bacolod City Police Office Women’s and Children’s Desk Chief Insp. Juvy Cabcaban said this applies to married women as well as to those who are living together and those who are having intimate relationships. If report of violence is true, the PNP detains the perpetrator. Authorities observed ...
  • TESDA-LNAS accepts scholars

    SIQUIJOR, March 16 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) at Lazi National Agricultural School (LNAS) is now accepting applicants for the 2013 Training for work Scholarship Program (TWSP). In a statement, TESDA-LNAS said there are 265 scholarship slots that are open for interested Siquijorians to avail and enroll in various qualifications/courses offered at LNAS, Lazi, Siquijor. The program is offered to the youth, out of school youth, college drop outs, fres...
  • PNoy to pour P300M to upgrade Reg1 Medical Center

    DAGUPAN CITY, March 15 (PIA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III said government will infuse P300 million to construct the main building of the province’s medical center here. Garbed in his signature yellow shirt, the President flew to this city Friday morning and opened the newly-built P23.9 million-emergency room complex of the Region 1 Medical Center. A marker was also unveiled as a tribute to the state-of-the-art medical facility. The President said government is prioritizing the facilit...
  • Isolated, disadvantaged areas to get priority health services

    ILOILO CITY, March 15 (PIA) -- Geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA) in Western Visayas will be prioritized by the Department of Health- Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD 6) for its programs and projects this 2013. This is in line with the over-all goal of the Universal Health Care or Kalusugan Pangkalahatan (KP) which is a focused approach to health reform implementation, ensuring that all Filipinos especially the poor receive the benefits of health reform. Dr....
  • Japanese researchers share studies on livestock infectious diseases

    SCIENCE CITY OF MUNOZ, Nueva Ecija, March 15 (PIA) -- Two Japanese researchers from Hokkaido University shared to the officials of Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) the results of their studies on livestock infectious diseases during the latter’s technical caucus held at its national headquarters at the Science City of Muñoz. Satoru Konnai presented his work entitled, “Role of Inhibitory Molecules in Bovine Chronic Infectious Diseases and as Target for Therapy,” which focused on the analys...
  • DOLE enjoins parents to join in career and labor market info campaign

    BAGUIO CITY, March 15 (PIA) - - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in recognizing the importance of parents in guiding their children on the career path to take, is enjoining them to join in career coaching and employment and labor market information campaign. DOLE Regional Director Henry John Jalbuena disclosed that encouraging the participation of parents during the conduct of Career and Employment Coaching (CEC) is essential for them to properly guide their children in decidi...
  • Free ICT summer classes for OFWS and families

    ILOILO CITY, March 15 (PIA) -- The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Regional Welfare Office (OWWA-RWO) VI offers free Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills trainings to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents this summer. This is in line with the thrust of OWWA in advocating “unlimited potential” programs for OFWs and their dependents. The main goal of the ICT Program is to bridge the communication gap between the OFW and his/her family throug...