Undersecretary of Health Dr. Enrique A. Tayag graces the 30th International Aids Day celebration on Sunday, May 19 at the kiosko Kagawasan here in Divisoria, Cagayan de Oro City. (Rodolfo D. Mendoza, PIA-10)

Members of farmers' organizations, cooperatives, irrigators' associations, who participated in the farmers' forum, dubbed as "Ugnayan para sa mga Magsasaka" recently held at the Cultural Center of Laguna in Santa Cruz, Laguna. The forum, organized by NFA-Laguna, is aimed at elevating the plight and welfare of agricultural workers, especially the palay-producing farmers of Laguna. (Photo and caption: Alan C. Ortillano/PIA-Laguna)

DepEd Region -7 Regional Director Carmelita T. Dulangon (in white) talks about the preparations undertaken by DepEd under Balik Eskwela, adequacy of classrooms and teachers and other related matters for this year's school opening during the Kapihan sa PIA forum at the DepEd Regional -7 office in Ecotech, Lahug, Cebu City on May 22, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Leyte Sangguniang Panlalawigan approves a committee report presented by BM Ryan Lawrence Tiu (standing), chairman, Committee on Environment and Natural Resources on Municipal Ordinance No. 12-04 in the town of Inopacan on adopting the Solid Waste Management and establishing the Centralized Material Recovery Facility (CMRF) and Municipal Ordinance No. 2011-03 of the town of Palo on imposing a 50-year moratorium on the conduct of mining operations under the supervision of the Management of the Municipal Environment (MENRO) during its 128th regular session held at the Legislative Building, Capitol Complex, Tacloban City, May 21. (Raul S. Tiozon-PIA-8)

A guy paints the window panel of a classroom of West City Elementary School in Dumaguete at the start of Brigada Eskwela. The program started with the gathering of teachers, parents and volunteers singing the national anthem. Brigada Eskwela, which will end on May 25, is an annual event of the Department of Education which aims to bring together teachers, parents and volunteers in cleaning classrooms before the school opening in June. (RL/PIA NEGOR)

The Authority of Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) sign a pact to improve the labor standards of the freeport. In the contributed picture are (from left) Chun Chiang Enterprises Mfg. Company factory manager Estrelita Castillo; Essilor Mfg. Philippines HRD manager Yolanda Samaniego; DOLE-Region 3 Director Raymundo Agravante; AFAB Chairman Deogracias Custodio; MMA Competent Manpower & General Services general manager Manuel Adriano; Abelline Human Resource Services HR Manager Mia Editha Gabriel and Optimum Security Services President Elmer Magnate. (Jose Mari M. Garcia/PIA 3)

Undersecretary of Health Dr. Enrique A. Tayag at the ceremonial lighting of the candle memorial to kick off the 30th International Aids Day celebration at the Kiosko Kagawasan, Divisoria, Cagayan de Oro City on May 19, 2013. (Rodolfo D. Mendoza, PIA-10)

NegoKart or Negosyo sa Kariton shown in this file photo from DOLE-Region 3 has been a big help to ambulant vendors who will undergo livelihood trainings to develop their business and get their own cart. (Jose Mari M. Garcia/PIA 3)

Dr. Enrique A. Tayag, DOH Undersecretary commits his support to HIV/AIDS awareness campaign, the ceremonial signing was done during the 30th International Aids Day celebration here in Cagayan de Oro City. (Rodolfo D. Mendoza, PIA-10)

Local entrepreneurs of Rizal province were briefed by speakers from the University of the Philippines Institute for Small Scale Industries on effective costing and pricing of products and services to help maximize gains through proper pricing. The training was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry-Rizal in cooperation with East West Bank – M.L. Quezon, Antipolo and the UP-ISSI. (Photo & caption: GG-PIA4A)

Cebu Province Trainor on K to 12 Glenn Tahanlangit (standing) speaks at the training/worshop of teachers from Central Visayas regarding the K to 12 program of the government under the Department of Education at the DepEd Regional-7 office in Ecotech, Lahug, Cebu City on May 22, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Members of the Philippine National Police-Bohol Provincial Police Office work hand-in-hand with other education stakeholders in the implementation of the National Schools Maintenance Week (NSMW) or Brigada Eskwela in Booy South Elementary School in Tagbilaran City on May 21. Volunteers paint classrooms, repair furniture and clean up the school grounds to prepare the facilities for the June school opening. (PIA-Bohol/ECB)

Police Community Relations-Police Non Commissioned Officer SPO4 Geronimo Conarco (with broom) doing his share of cleaning a classroom in Booy South Elementary School in Tagbilaran City on May 21. Brigada Eskwela is a nationwide voluntary effort which started in 2003, bringing together teachers, parents and the community to do clean up and repairs in public schools to prepare the facilities for the June school opening. (ECB/PIA-BOHOL)

Members of the Philippine National Police-Bohol Provincial Police Office (PNP-BPPO) lined-up to sign as volunteers of the Brigada Eskwela 2013 in Booy South Elementary School on May 21. Over the years, the Brigada Eskwela effort has evolved from a week-long cleaning-up and beautification exercise to a festive coming together of students, teachers, school officials, parents, community members, local government officials, non-government organizations, church groups and the private sector. (PIA-Bohol/ECB)

One of the highlights of the Balik Eskwela 2013 Kick-off program in Tagbilaran City on May 20 was the turn-over of a computer set by Don Cecelio Putong National High School Batch '93 and cleaning materials & supplies by Batch'88 to their Alma mater. It has become one of DepEd’s major initiatives in enjoining local communities to respond to the needs of public schools and be part of a nationwide effort toward improving Philippine basic education. (PIA-Bohol/ECB)

Brigada Eskwela 2013 in Tagbilaran City, participated by all city divisions, kicked-off with a motorcade from DepEd City Division office, passed by the main roads of the city and ended up at Don Cecelio Putong National High School where a program followed right after the motorcade. Scheduled on May 20-25, this year’s Brigada, which is on its tenth year, carries the theme “Isang Dekada ng Bayanihan sa Paaralan.” (PIA-Bohol/ECB)

DENR 7 Information Officer Ed Llamedo (left) discusses the activities lined up for Ocean Month Celebration themed with "Ang Bahura ay Kagubatan sa Karagatan Ating Pangalagaan" geared towards coral protection as he appeal to the public specifically in the coastal areas to participate in the lined up activities and to continue it even without the celebration to help protect and preserve corals and other marine biodiversity during the AGIO 7 Forum on May 21, 2013 at PIA 7 Regional Office. (AYS/VVV/PIA 7)

Cagayan Electric Power & Light Co. (Cepalco) Senior Vice President Jaime Rafael U. Paguio answers queries from the press on generation charges during the Mindanao Power Crisis Forum initiated by the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (Oro Chamber). (Rodolfo D. Mendoza, PIA-10)

Dr. Evelyn Magsayo, program manager of HIV/AIDS of DOH said in a press conference that the ratio of recorded cases of HIV/AIDS in the region is one every week. In Cagayan de Oro, there are 13 tabulated with HIV from January to March this year, while there are three in Misamis Oriental. In the national level, it is one in every three hours. (Rodolfo D. Mendoza, PIA-10)

A Bureau of Fire Protection personnel waits while the tanker is being refilled with water from the COWD Booster Station in Macasandig. Water extracted is intended for delivery to the West City Central School for Brigada Eskwela 2013-a school maintenance program implemented by the Department of education to ensure that public school facilities are set in time for the forthcoming school opening. (COWD)

SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) – Magat plant manager and assistant Vice-president Wilhelmino Ferrer (center) explains the programs and services of the power firm including the company's corporate social responsibilities to host communities. SNAP-Magat recently allocated the amount of P.555 million as its counterpart for the implementation of the Lagawe solid waste management project. (Marcelo B. Lihgawon, PIA-Ifugao)

The Technical Working Group Meeting of the Regional Nutrition Committee 10 (RNC-TWG 10) convenes, where they are presenting and discussing the 2013 Regional Nutrition Situation-Region 10, National Nutrition Council Governing Board Resolution No.1: Adopting the National Policy on Nutrition Management in Emergencies and Disasters and 2013 Nutrition Month Celebration at De Luxe Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City on May 20, 2013. (PIA10)

Peter T. Anhaw, community volunteer for the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan- Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), shares his experiences throughout the implementation of a Community-Driven Development Program in Calamba, Misamis Occidental during the Convergence Strategy Programs Media Tour on February 6-8, 2013. (Marko Davey Reyes/RTP/PIA10)

Baguio City National High School (BCNHS) Principal Dr. Elma Donaal, expresses the school's gratitude to DOE Undersecretary Loreta Ayson, for the retrofitting the light of their campus buildings which led to the reduction of its electric bills. Ayson spearheaded the DOE- led PEEP press conference for Luzon at the Le Monet Thursday, to report the accomplishments of the project which implementation will end this year. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Be wary of picking and eating wild mushrooms. Thus, the advise of City Health Services Office Medical Officer Dr. Donnabel Tubera, in an interview over PIA Hour. According to Tubera with the onset of the rainy season mushroom tends to sprout everywhere and with cases of mushroom poisoning being recorded in various city hospitals, she advise the public not to pick wild mushrooms that they are not familiar with and not to mix various varieties when cooking/eating mushrooms. (Photo by AC/Torres/PIA CAR Intern)

Benguet Electric Cooperative General Manager Gerardo Versoza gives some inputs while DOE Usec Loreta Ayson listens during the DOE- led Philippine Energy Efficiency Project (PEEP) press conference for Luzon held at the Le Monet Hotel Thursday. The retrofitting of lighting in Burnham and Wright Park, is among the PEEP accomplishments in Baguio, which is under the jurisdiction of BENECO. (Lito Dar-PIA CAR)

City Central School in Cagayan de Oro city holds the nationwide Brigada Eskwela 2013 to welcome and orient mothers and incoming elementary students for a clean-up drive prior to start of classes. This is to make sure students carry pencils and papers instead of broomsticks on June 3. (JMORucat,PIA-10)

Various farmers and fisherfolks' groups in Miag-ao town here take part in the parade as part of the kick-off ceremony of the celebration of the 1st Farmers and Fisherfolks Week of the municipality slated from May 22-24, 2013. (LTP/OMA/PIA-Iloilo)

Department of Energy Undersecretary Loreta Ayson (c) reports on the accomplishments of the Philippine Energy Efficiency Project (PEEP) during the DOE-led PEEP Press conference for Luzon at the Le Monet Hotel, Thursday. Through the PEEP, the government aims to address the effect of climate change by reducing GHG (Green House Gasses) emission by pushing for the phasing out of incandescent bulbs, in lieu of the use Compact Fluorescent Lights, in households, as well as government and local government offices nationwide. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Volunteers participate in this year’s Brigada Eskwela at the Gen. Ricardo Papa Sr. Memorial High School in Tuktutukan, Taguig City. (TAGUIG-PIO/JEG/PIA-NCR)

Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas on Monday lauds the men and women of the Philippine National Police for their major contributions in keeping the level of violence low, he congratulated the 148,000-strong police force led by PNP Chief Alan Purisima, who attended the ceremony along with several top police officials. (DILG)

Parents, teachers, pupils and volunteers participate in cleaning the surroundings of the San Fernando Central School in Tacloban City at the Brigada Eskwela on May 20. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Parents, teachers, pupils and volunteers participate in cleaning the surroundings of the San Fernando Central School in Tacloban City at the Brigada Eskwela on May 20. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Department of Trade & Industry-Leyte provincial Director Desiderio Belas (center) leads guests, visitors and exhibitors in the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon during the opening ceremony of the 3-day Diskwento Caravan at the DTI-Leyte provincial office compound, Brgy. Fatima, Tacloban City. The caravan is from May l5-17. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Presidential Communications Operations Officer Secretary Sonny Coloma, in a light moment with Rotary Club International District 3790 past and present governors during the District Assembly (DISTAS) 2013 at the Baguio Country Club, Saturday. Coloma, was the guest of honor in the assembly where he talked about Rotary and Ethics. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Sonny Coloma in an interview with Baguio media at the PIA Cordillera Regional office Friday. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio "Sonny" Coloma, in his keynote address during the Rotary Club International District 3790 Assembly at the Baguio Country Club Saturday, reminded Rotarians of the ethical virtues that are essential in serving the greater good. He emphasized that ethics or good virtues are disposition to act on ways that benefit the person and the society and to act as if it is your duty to serve the greatest good for the greatest number. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Naval Central School joins the nationwide Brigada Eskwela 2013 from May 20-25. (PIA 8 Biliran)

Naval Central School joins the nationwide Brigada Eskwela 2013 from May 20-25. (PIA8 Biliran)

Leyte Governor elect Dominic “Mic” Petilla (4th from left) and Palo mayor Remedios “Matin” Petilla (6th from right) pose with the newly elected municipal councilors after their proclamation at the Palo Municipal Hall, May 16. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA8)

Leyte Provincial Board of Canvassers (PBOC) chair Atty. Richard Alvin N. Japson (right) proclaimed Dominic “Mic” Petilla (2nd from left) and Carlo Loreto 2nd (from right) winners for governor and vice-governor, respectively at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Tacloban City, May 16. Others in photo are vice chair Atty. Cesar Merin and PBOC secretary Florencia Sabandal. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA8)

Leyte Provincial Board of Canvassers (PBOC) chair Atty. Richard Alvin N. Japson (center) and vice-chair Atty. Cesar Merin (left) proclaimed the newly elected board members from the five districs of Leyte at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Tacloban City, May 16. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA8)

Palo municipal election officer Eunia Vacal (4th from left) raises the hands of the newly elected councilors of the town during their proclamation held at the Municipal Hall, Palo Leyte May 16. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA8)

The Mindanao Philsaga Foundation Inc. represented by its President Dr. Victor Salvado together with Baganga Vice Mayor Arturo Monday and Dr. Joy Sanico, Provincial Health Officer I, ground breaks the first of the fifteen Barangay Health Stations to be built in the three typhoon-affected towns in Davao Oriental courtesy of the said foundation.(Photos by Lester Berganio-PIO Davao Oriental)

National Athletics Coach Renato Unso teaches the IP kids proper stretching techniques at the final qualifying try out for the Talaingod-DavNor Runners Team at the Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center. (DavNor Sports Division)

Lahug Elementary School Grade Leader Analima Rama (in yellow, lower left photo) in Cebu City assisting the parents of Grade 1 enrollees. The enrollment of Grade 1 pupils coincides with the opening of Brigada Eskwela which will run from May 20 to 25, 2013. The 22 sections for Grade 1 of the Lahug Elementary School will accomodate 45 to 50 students per section. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

A step by step process on how to join the Brigada Eskwela is posted on the wall of the Rizal Central School in Tacloban City. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Officials and staff at the Lahug Elementary School in Cebu City started their week-long Brigada Eskwela activity with a briefing and launching ceremony for parents, teachers, students and volunteers at the schools's covered court. Brigada Eskwela is an annual, week-long activity that aims to prepare the public schools in time for opening of classes. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Parents, teachers, students and volunteers in Cebu City join hands in cleaning and readying the rooms at Lahug Elementary School during the opening day of the Brigada Eskwela on May 20, 2013. The Brigada Eskwela will run from May 20 to 25, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Thirteen yellow-clad volunteers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Busay Ward help in sweeping and cleaning the surroundings of the Lahug Elementary School, Cebu City during the Brigada Eskwela on May 20, 2013. The Brigada Eskwela will run from May 20 to 25, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Buyers look at the school supplies for sale at the opening of the 3-day Diskwento Caravan at the DTI-Leyte provincial office compound, Brgy. Fatima, Tacloban City. The caravan is from May 15-17. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Able bodied members of the Philippine National Police carry chairs and tables at the Panalaron Central School in Tacloban City at the start of Brigada Eskwela on May 20. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

A parent carries a desk to one of the classrooms of the Rizal Central School in Tacloban City at the start of Brigada Eskwela on May 20. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Parents, teachers, pupils and volunteers participate in cleaning the surroundings of the San Fernando Central School in Tacloban City at the Brigada Eskwela on May 20. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Able bodied members of the Philippine National Police carry chairs and tables at the Panalaron Central School in Tacloban City at the start of Brigada Eskwela on May 20. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

The Kinaadman Chorale of John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University performs a musical number during the kick off program of “Fiestas in the City” held on May 20, 2013 at the SM City Activity Center. “Fiestas in the City” is a week-long event organized by the Department of Tourism-6 and SM City Iloilo to promote the various festivals in Western Visayas. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Iloilo City Schools Division Superintendent Nelly Valerio (seated, right) takes part in the tree planting activity held during the regional launching and kick off program of the 2013 Brigada Eskwela at Jaro National High School, Iloilo City, May 20. Behind her are ICPO Director Ruperto Floro, JNHS Principal Belinda Dinopol and DepEd 6 OIC ARD John Arnold Siena. (LAF/PIA6)

Dr. Melba M. Billones (right), Municipal Health Officer of San Jose, Antique passes the lighted candle to the participating crowd during the AIDS Candlelight Memorial held at the Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park in San Jose. The activity with the theme “In Solidarity” was observed May 19 to honor the memory of those who died of AIDS and to show support to those who are still living with the disease. (PIA 6/T.Villavert)

The PNP mascots added attraction to the caravan which kicked-off the Brigada Eskuwela here in Western Visayas. The 2013 Brigada Eskuwela Regional launching and kick-off program was held at the Jaro National High School, Iloilo City attended by DepEd officials, PNP officials and other education stakeholders, May 20. (PIA6)

Violeta A. Miedes, Principal of Del. Angel Salazar Jr. Memorial School, in San Jose, Antique explains the plastic container recycling project wherein empty plastic containers are filled with cellophane wrappers to minimize the scattering of cellophane wrappers inside the school campus. This could be used in landscaping, making of garden plots and other interior decors. This year’s focus of Brigada Eskuwela is on environmental cleanup, solid waste management, gulayan sa paaralan and tree planting activities. (MLG/PSM/PIA6 Antique)

Youth sector in San Jose, Antique light candles during the observance of the 30th International AIDS Candlight Memorial held at the Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park in San Jose. The activity with the theme “In Solidarity” was observed May 19 to honor the memory of those who died of AIDS and to show support to those who are still living with the disease. (PIA 6/T.Villavert)

Philippine Army Commanding General Noel Coballes (center) and 3rd Infantry Division Commanding General Jose Mabanta Jr. pose with officers of the Soriano-Celo Foundation, one of the four civilian awardees recognized during the Division's 39th Foundation Anniversary, May 16. (PIA/JBGuillermo)

A teacher of Delegate Angel Salazar Jr. Memorial School in San Jose, Antique facilitates enrollment of a Grade 5 pupil with parents who rendered Brigada Eskwela during the opening day on Monday. With them is Violeta A. Miedes, (standing right) Principal, supervising the enrollment activities. (MLG/PSM/PIA6 Antique)

3ID Commanding General Jose Z. Mabanta welcomes Philippine Army Commanding General Noel Coballes during the 3rd Infantry Division’s 39th Founding Anniversary, May 16, 2013 at Camp Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz. (3ID photo/JBG)

Agricultural technologist Irish Manalo monitors the growth of the Compost Fungus Activator (CFA), Trichoderma Harzianum. The Provincial Agriculturist Office (PAGRO) noted an unprecedented increase in the demand of the Trichoderma Harzianum, which is used to decompose rice straws to serve as organic fertilizer. (DavNor PIO/photo by Mera Grace E. Apuya)

An adoptive parent shares the steps that she followed when she decided to legally adopt the child under her foster care during the Adoption and Alternative Parental Care Forum conducted by the DSWD 6 here in Iloilo City on May 18. The activity was attended by foster parents, prospective adoptive parents and house parents of the different foster care institutions in the city and province of Iloilo. (LAF/PIA6)

Senen M. Perlada, director of the Bureau of Export Trade Promotion (BETP)- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provides an overview of the Philippine Free Trade Agreements (FTA) and the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) during the FTA Information Campaign held on May 21, 2013 at Hotel Del Rio. (LTP-PIA Iloilo)

More than 300 Ilonggos take part in the program and candlelighting ceremony held at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand to commemorate the 30th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, May 19. (LAF/PIA6)

A MOA Signing between PLGU ComVal, DSWD, and DILG was done on May 2 at the Capitol for PLGU Engagement Pilot on Community-Driven Development Program of DSWD. Governor Arturo T. Uy represents the PLGU, Regional Director Priscilla N. Razon and KALAHI-CIDSS National Project Manager Edgar G. Pato of the DSWD, and USec. Francisco Fernandez of the DILG. Congresswoman Maria Carmen Zamora also graced the ceremonial signing and turn-over of Check for Emergency Shelter Assistance and Modified Shelter. (Albert Dayao/IDS ComVal)

Governor Rodolfo del Rosario, center, cuts the ceremonial ribbon at the launch of the RCDG Bridge, as component of the P10-million Dagohoy, Talaingod-Semong, Kapalong farm-to-market road. (Noel Baguio-PIO Davao del Norte

The family of Boston Municipal Councilor Vicente Berganio recently donates 2.7 hectares of land as resettlement site of 120 typhoon Pablo-affected families in the municipality. (photos by Lester Berganio, PIO)

The PLGU lead by Governor Arturo T. Uy and DSWD Regional Director Priscilla Razon together with the UN WFP and other partners led the Ceremonial Blessing and Symbolic Turn-over of the new units of GK houses in S.O.P Kahiusahan USWAG GK Village in Brgy. Osmeña, Compostela on May 3, 2013. The GK Village now has total of 88 houses. (Albert Dayao/ IDS ComVal)

A group of artists sculpts beach sand into wonderful forms of art in the Porma Balas competition of the 1st Iloilo Pamunit Festival. The 1st Iloilo Pamunit Festival, a new tourism product promoted in Iloilo and in Region 6, was held last May 18-19, 2013 at Anhawan Resort, Oton, Iloilo. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Department of Tourism-6 (DOT-6) Regional Director Atty. Helen Catalbas declares the formal opening of the1st Iloilo Pamunit Festival during kick-off program held at Anhawan Resort, Oton, Iloilo on May 18, 2013. About 30 angler-participants took part in the sports fishing tournament which was held in the Oton Fishing Sanctuary where the artificial coral reefs was installed last year. (LTP/PIA6 Iloilo)

The Sajahatra Bangsamoro caravans are set to begin in June, according to the Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Sajahatra Bangsamoro program is President Benigno S. Aquino III’s concrete socioeconomic peace initiative that was launched in February 2013, following the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) in October 2012. (Photo by: Office of the Cabinet Secretary)

Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Governor Corazon Alma de Leon emphasizes the essence of being a volunteer which is service above self. In her talk during the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on May 8 at the Baguio Country Club, she challenged the local PRC chapter to increase the number of members and volunteers so that the barangays will have access to the services of the Red Cross. (Joseph B. Zambrano/PIA CAR)

Lagawe Mayor Ceasario Cabbigat; SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) – Magat plant manager and assistant Vice-president Wilhelmino Ferrer (r-l) and LGU-Lagawe municipal administrator Alejandro Pahiwon sign the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the implementation of the solid waste management project (SWMP) of the LGU. SNAP-Magat allocated the amount of P555,000. from its Corporate Social Responsibility-fund to directly finance the the project. (Marcelo B. Lihgawon, PIA-Ifugao)

SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) – Magat plant manager and assistant Vice-president Wilhelmino Ferrer (l) turns over to mayor Ceasario Cabbigat a check worth P430,000 for the Lagawe Solid Waste Management Project (LSWMP). The check is part of the P.555-million allocated by SNAP-Magat from its Corporate Social Responsibility-fund to finance the implementation of the project. (Marcelo B. Lihgawon, PIA-Ifugao)

Fourteen participants from the Antonio Zuzuarregi Homeowners Association Inc. attend the briefing on the different aspects of food safety and preparation last May 7-8 at the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Rizal conference room. The briefing was organized by DOLE in coordination with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Rizal provincial offices. (Photo & caption: GG-PIA4A)

Members of the BEI are busy checking and counting the list of voters who voted after the polling precinct was closed in Dipolog City. (May Abellon, Zamboanga del Norte/PIA9)

Winners for local elective posts in Dipolog were proclaimed by the Comelec-Dipolog. 12:0 ratio was set by Liberal Party candidates defeating opponent party of Alliance for Peace and Progress (APP). (May Abellon, Zamboanga del Norte/PIA9)

The provincial board of canvassers led by its chairperson, Atty. Elenita Tabangin Capuyan (r) proclaims incumbent Congressman Teddy Baguilat Jr. (center) as the duly elected congressman of Ifugao. He garnered a total votes of 43,751 to retain his post for another three years. (Mhars B. Lihgawon,PIA-Ifugao)

Spectators from media and supporters of different camps observe the canvassing of votes at the session hall of Sangguniang Panlungsod, Dipolog City. (May Abellon, Zamboanga del Norte/PIA9)

Philippine Army Commanding General Noel Coballes awards the Best Battalion of the Year award to the 79th Infantry Battalion during the 3ID's 39th Foundation Anniversary on May 16 at Jamindan, Capiz. Also assisting Coballes is 3ID Commanding General Jose Mabanta Jr.

Regional Director Josefina Castilla-Go of Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) 4A and chair of the committee on disaster preparedness of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) 4A answers questions during the open forum at the 1st RDRRMC 4A full council meeting held May 16, 2013 at Monte Vista Hotspring & Conference Center in Calamba City. (Photo & caption: CPG, PIA4A)

Mayor Evelyn T. Uy arrived at SP Session Hall with a big smile receiving congratulations from her supporters and party-mates during the proclamation of winners last May 14 in Dipolog. (May Abellon, Zamboanga del Norte/PIA9)

Families, friends and supporters of Liberal Party (LP) candidates witness the proclamation of winners for local elective posts in Dipolog. A ratio of 12:0 was again set record in the history of election in Dipolog for the third time. (May Abellon, Zamboanga del Norte/PIA9)

Board of Election Inspectors (BEIs) in Cluster 23 of Cogon Elementary School in San Jose Street, Tagbilaran City do the manual count to check and make sure that each of the votes are counted. Aside from the automated count by the PCOS, the law mandates the Comelec to do a corresponding manual count to check on the accuracy of the functions of the PCOS machine. (PIA-Bohol/ecb)

Isuzu Motors Limited senior counselor Yoshinori Ida (center) pose with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) family visitors and trainees during the Recognition of Awards for batches 7, 8 & 9 with the theme, “Mga Batang Tek-Bok Handa sa Hamon ng Makabagong Panahon” held at the Tesda 8 multi-purpose hall Tacloban City, May 9. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

World Vision Ambassador and celebrity Miriam Quiambao observes an Isuzu scholar working on an auto engine during the Trainees’ Skills Demonstration held at ISUZU Automechanic Training Center, TESDA 8, Tacloban City, May 9. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

A young boy watches his mother who carefully reviews the sample ballot before shading the ovals opposite the printed names of candidates she is voting for during the May 10 final testing and sealing of the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machines in the province of Antique at Precinct 31 A and 32 A at the Delegate Angel Salazar, Jr. Memorial School, in San Jose, Antique. (TVillavert/PIA 6)

Police Non-Commission Officers safeguarding the PCOS machines at the Siquijor Capital Square during the final testing and sealing last May 8. About 42 machines were deployed for the town's 42 clustered precincts of Siquijor. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Officers and members of the Siquijor Association and Information Disseminators (SAID) and the PIA-Siquijor listen to the orientation on Kasambahay Law shared by the Department of Labor and Employment, Provincial Extension office. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Newly retired provincial election officer of Siquijor, Provincial election Supervisor Atty. Leandro M. Magusara (far left) talks with one of the members of the security team assigned at the Siquijor Capital Square during the final testing and sealing of PCOS machines. Looking on is Provincial Director Police Senior Superintendent Primitivo Tabujara Jr. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Comelec-Siquijor Election Supervisor Eliseo R.Z. B. Labaria (right) and Siquijor town election officer Ariel S. Selma (left) supervise the conduct of Final Testing and Sealing at the Siquijor Capital Square where 42 PCOS machines for the town’s clustered precincts were deployed on May 8, 2013. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Unopened Smartmatic boxes containing Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) machines line up inside the Valencia Municipal Gym in Valencia, Negros Oriental for the final testing and sealing process. 19 PCOS machines were placed at Valencia Municipal Gym which will served as a polling center for the May 13 polls. (LPP/PIA NEGOR)

A room was filled with busy Board of Election Inspectors and mock voters during the Final Testing and Sealing (FTS) of Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) machines in Valencia Central School. There were 33 PCOS machines delivered in Valencia, 14 of which were placed in Central Elementary School while the other 19 were put in Valencia Municipal Hall. (LPP/PA NEGOR)

PNP-Siquijor Provincial Director Police Senior Superintendent Primitivo Tabujara Jr. (center) assures the public of a peaceful May 13 election during the Provincial Joint Security Coordinating Center (PJSCC) meeting at Dondeezco Beach Resort, Siquijor, Siquijor. With him are Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Atty. Ulysses Andora (right) and Comelec Election Supervisor Eliseo R.Z. B. Labaria (left). (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Mock voters casting their votes on the sample ballots at the Valencia Municipal Gym, Valencia, Negros Oriental during the final testing of Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) machines. (RL/PIA NEGOR)

The final sealing and testing of PCOS machines in Basilan was held last May 10, 2013. (Rene V, Carbayas, PIA9-ZBST)

A Board of Election Inspector in Valencia Municipal Gym, Valencia, Negros Oriental starts operating a PCOS machine. The final testing and sealing of all PCOS machines in Valencia has been peaceful as there were no violent incidents reported. (RL/PIA NEGOR)

A voter at Precinct 31 A and 32 A at the Delegate Angel Salazar Jr. Memorial School, in San Jose, Antique carefully reviews the sample ballot before shading the ovals opposite the printed names of candidates he is voting for during the May 10 final testing and sealing of the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machines in the province. (TVillavert/PIA 6)

A Precinct Optical Scanner (PCOS) machine in City Central Elementary School in Dumaguete City is being tested during the final testing and sealing process. (LPP/PIA NEGOR)

The final sealing and testing of PCOS machines in Basilan was held last May 10, 2013. (Rene V, Carbayas, PIA9-ZBST)

Comelec – Roxas City Election Supervisor Reinier Layson (right) looks at a Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machine during a visit in one of the city’s clustered polling precincts to monitor the PCOS testing and sealing last May 10. (PIA Capiz photo/Jemin B. Guillermo)

Siquijor Election Supervisor Eliseo R.Z. B. Labaria (2nd from right) briefs the election stakeholders on the final preparation plan with the different agencies involved for a smooth and peaceful elections in the province. To his right is Lt. Christopher G. Eslava of the Philippine Army and to his left are Police Senior Superintendent Primitivo Tabujara Jr. and Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Atty. Ulysses Andora. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

The seven Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machines and other election paraphernalia arrived an hour late at Tagbilaran City Central Elementary School for the final testing and sealing last Wednesday, May 8. (PIA-Bohol/ecb)

Province of Siquijor Electric Cooperative (PROSIELCO) Manager Laureen Malolot discusses the preparations they made for the election during the Provincial Joint Security Coordinating Center (PJSCC) meeting. She said there is enough power supply for Siquijor during elections. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

The Department of Agriculture is allotting an initial P28.8 million to help develop and promote agri-tourism sites, under a “Green Initiative” movement, led by the ABS-CBN Corporation and ABS-CBN Foundation, in partnership with the DA, Department of Tourism, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Ateneo de Manila University School of Science and Engineering. The project was launched, May 6, 2013, at the ABS-CBN complex in Quezon City. (Photo by Alan Jay Jacalan, DA Information Service)

Mock voters cast their votes during the Final Testing and Sealing (FTS) of PCOS machine in Cogon Elemtary School in San Jose Street, Tagbilaran City last May 8. (PIA-Bohol/ecb)

Teacher Rachel Autentico (left), chairman of the Board of Election Inspectors, leads the sealing of the ballot box during the Final Testing and Sealing (FTS) in Cluster 10 of Tagbilaran City Central School last Wednesday, May 8. (PIA-Bohol/ecb)

RPO 7 Chief PSSupt Audie A. Villacin (3rd from left second row) talks on the security preparations for elections, illegal gambling, illegal drugs, and gun ban during the Talakayan sa Isyung Pulis (TSIP) Forum at Police Regional Office 7 on May 8, 2013 in Cebu City.(VVV/PIA CEBU)

Paul Eclar (left), psychologist of the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development-6 (DSWD-6), gives a definition of Child in Conflict with the Law during an episode of the Hangpanay Program of the Community Communications Network of the Philippine Information Agency-6. Also in the photo is June Tercena (center), Social Welfare Officer of RRCY of DSWD-6. The program is hosted by Elsa Subong, Iloilo Information Center manager, PIA-6. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

A voter from Brgy. Ed Ganzon, Iloilo City Proper inserts the election ballot in the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machine. This is part of the final testing and sealing of the PCOS machines of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) today, May 10, at Iloilo Central Elementary School. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

The Chair of the Board of Election Inspectors (BEIs) for Brgy. Sampaguita, Iloilo City seals the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machine in preparation for the May 13 polls. This is part of the final testing and sealing of the PCOS machine of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) held today, May 10, at Iloilo Central Elementary School. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

DTI Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadena Jr. (left) is joined by (left to right), Engineer Justino Arboleda of COCOTECH, DTI Region 6 Director Dominic P. Abad, DTI Undersecretary for Regional Operations and Development Merly M. Cruz, Anna India Legaspi of Heritage Arts and Crafts, DTI Undersecretary for Trade and Investment Promotion Ponciano C. Manalo, Bureau of Export Trade Promotion (BETP) Director Senen M. Perlada, Japanese Embassy Trade and Commercial Attache Kenichiro Koreeda, and DTI Public Relations Office (PRO) Director Thelma Dumpit-Murillo during the Aklan Piña and Fiber Festival, which showcased premium home-grown products from the province. It ran from April 22 to 30, 2013 at the Trade Hall, Provincial Capitol Grounds in Kalibo, Aklan. (DTI-PRO)

Erna Malinao, (left) acting division chief, Public Relations Division of COMELEC-Manila airs her observation about Antique province’s readiness for the conduct of the mid-term May 13 elections over local radio station DYKA. With Malinao are (from left) Comelec Antique Provincial Election Supervisor Ian Lee M. Ananoria; PIA-Antique Infocen Manager Margie L. Gadian; Randy Londres of DYKA; Pio Evangelio of PPCRV-Antique and the program’s host Toy Montaño. (TVillavert/PIA 6)

Roman SJ Sitjar of the Commission on Elections Provincial Office (left) explains to officers and members of Aklan Public Information Officers Asociation (APIOA) during a recent meeting the various parts and functions of the Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) which will be used in the May 13, 2013 national and local elections nationwide. (PIA/VGV)

Undersecretary for trade and investment promotion Ponciano C. Manalo tries his hand at one of the handlooms awarded to Handicraft of Aklan Multi-Purpose Cooperative (HAMPCO), a cooperative of weavers in Aklan through the DTI’s shared service facilities (SSF) program. (DTI-PRO)

Despite feeling under the weather, President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday answers questions raised by members of national and local media after meeting with local Liberal Party leaders and residents of District 3 and nearby communities in Quezon City. With the President are QC Mayor Herbert Bautista and Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte. (Photo by Jerome Carlo Paunan/PIA-NCR)

With the strict implementation of the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 or RA 8550, Claveria enjoys bountiful harvest from the sea. Arsenio dela Pena, this year’s entry to the national search for outstanding fisherfolk in the country is one of the seaguards of the town against illegal fishermen. (BSY/GBV/PIA)

The Department of Agriculture has earmarked P24 million (M) to lead the restoration of typhoon-damaged portions of the Banawe rice terraces, and another P10M to further develop and increase the production of traditional or ‘heirloom’ rice varieties for both domestic and export markets. The restoration of damaged terrace walls and repair of irrigation canals, particularly in Barangay Batad, Banawe, Ifugao, will be completed by June 30, 2013, said Department of Agriculture assistant secretary and national rice program coordinator Dante Delima (inset, left), who inspected restored portions, on April 28, 2013. Also shown are Teresa Saniano of the DA Secretary Technical Advisory Group (2nd from left, standing), Batad Barangay chair Romeo Heppog, and project engineer Jackson Bulaao. (Photo by Kathrino Resurreccion, DA Information Service)

Roman SJ Sitjar of the Commission on Elections (Comelec)Provincial Office (3rd from left) updates officers and members of the Aklan Information Officers Association in a meeting held at the DOST-Provincial Science and Technology Center on the status of preparations of the commission for the May 13, 2013 local and national elections. (PIA/VGV)

Ferdinand Macogue, administrative officer of Civil Service Commission Aklan Field Office (standing) briefs officers and members of Aklan Public Information Officers Association on specific acts that government officials and employees cannot do during elections and the penalties that erring government workers would suffer in case they violate laws that mandate this. (PIA6/vgv)

The Philippine Information Agency Region 3 headed by OIC-Regional Director William Beltran (photo inset) holds a meeting on the upcoming May 13 elections and PCOO's "Hatol ng Bayan." (Photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut/PIA3)

The Philippine Information Agency held its Kapihan ng Mamamayan on May 8 in preparations for the 2013 Midterm Elections. Panelists include (L) Philippine National Police - Police Regional Office 3 Deputy Regional Director for Operations PSSUPT Moro Virgilio Lazo, Department of Energy Luzon Field Office Director Efren Balaoing, Commission on Elections Regional Director Atty. Rafael Olaño, and 7th Infantry Division Commander of the Philippine Army, Major General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. (Photo by Roel Lazaro/PIA3)

A voter (right) in Mandaue City, Cebu tests the PCOS machine by feeding a ballot into it. So far, only minor glitches were noted during the PCOS machine final testing and sealing in Mandaue City, Cebu held May 8. (FCC/PIA Cebu)

Dr. Fe Marisa Mercado, OB-Gyne Oncologist and consultant of Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC), explains to the nurses, staff, personnel and officers in the provincial hospital what is Human Papillomaviros (HPV), diseases caused by this virus, how it is transmitted, the consequences, and ways of preventing it during the kick-off ceremony at NMMC, Capitol Compound on May 8. (Mark Anthony Dedoyco, PIA10)

BEIs, poll watchers and PCOS machine technicians checking the official ballot (left photo) being fed to the PCOS machine. A total of 22 PCOS machines were delivered at the Lahug Elementary School for final testing and sealing. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Teachers of Libo Elementary School in Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor segregate the books and other instructional materials donated from the USA through family of Bob and Theresa Ruch. (RAC/PIA Siquijor)

Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voters (PPCRV) chair Msgr. Larry Catubig (far left) looks on as election assitant Jude Tan (right) briefs the BEIs during the Final Testing and Sealing at the Siquijor Capital Square where 44 PCOS machines are deployed. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

PCOS Technician Dr. Theron Abel Arana (in black polo shirt) assists the BEIs and watchers during the simultaneous regionwide PCOS machine final testing and sealing. Arana checked and validated the materials needed for the smooth operation of PCOS machines at Lahug Elementary School, Cebu City. (VVVPIA Cebu)

Bohol Provincial Police Office led by Provincial Director PSSupt. Constantino Barot Jr. (signing the peace covenant) in coordination with the Diocese of Tagbilaran and the Commission on Election-Bohol together with the personnel from National Support Units (NSUs) and neighboring police stations in Bohol attending the conduct of Peace Covenant Signing for a Secure and Fair Elections (S.A.F.E.) 2013 held at St. Joseph Cathedral last May 5. (PIA-Bohol/PNP-BPPO)

Bishop Leonardo Medroso of the Diocese of Tagbilaran in Bohol leads the candidates for provincial positions in signing a covenant that will bind their efforts for a clean, peaceful and orderly election. Bishop Medroso officiated the 5 p.m. Holy Mass at the St. Joseph Cathedral before the covenant signing was done on May 5. (PIA-Bohol/PNP-BPPO)

Local candidates of Siquijor with the COMELEC and PNP officials during the Peace Covenant Signing for a peaceful election. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Voters of Siquijor province take their time choosing their bets for the May 13 elections as they participate in the PCOS machine final testing and sealing at Siquijor Capital Square on May 8, 2013. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Voters in Mandaue who took the time to witness the PCOS machine final testing and sealing on May 8 take their time in filling out their sample ballots for the testing. (FCC/PIA Cebu)

A young voter from Siquijor seriously fills out the sample ballots during the "mock election" on the Final Testing and Sealing of the PCOS machine at the Capital Square in Siquijor. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

A pre-school child of a Libo Elementary School teacher in Siquijor eagerly looks at the colorful pictures in the books donated for the school children through the family of Bob and Theresa Ruch of USA. (RCalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

PNP-Siquijor Provincial Director PSSupt Primitivo Tabujara Jr. (right) checks the security of the PCOS machines at the Siquijor Capital Square during the Final Testing and Sealing (FTS) on May 8, 2013. (RCalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Liberal Party bet for the first district of Bohol Rene Relampagos (L) and Board member bet for the first district of Bohol Abel Damalerio (R) signs the covenant for a clean, peaceful and orderly 2013 election in the province. (PIA-Bohol/PNP-BPPO)

BEI Supervisor Aida Ouano (3rd from right) of Precinct 4 Barangay Centro reads out loud the instructions to her staff and witnesses during the PCOS machine final testing and sealing (FTS) in Mandaue, Cebu. (RA/FCC/PIA Cebu)

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (3rd from right) and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin (4th from left) launch a joint venture to transform idle areas in military camps into farms, and enable military personnel to produce their own rice, corn, rootcrops, vegetables, fruits, fish and other food requirements and source of additional income. (Photo by Kathrino Resurreccion, DA Information Service)

Women entrepreneurs train on the Tesda and Coca Cola Philippines Gender-Responsive Entrepreneurship dubbed as S3TAR or Sari-sari Store Training and Access to Resources Program. (EAD-PIA6/TESDA photo)

An elder of Daraghuyan tribal community, Bae Inatlawan—also known as Adelina Tarino—bangs a gong and recites a chant to call the spirits as she performs a ritual before the “Salintubig” forum starts in Bukidnon. The “Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig sa Lahat (Salintubig)” program is a DILG-implemented project where 16 towns in Bukidnon will benefit by gaining access to clean, safe and affordable drinking water. The solemn ritual is in recognition of the IPs customary rights to lands and resources covered by native titles as mandated in the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA). (Zenaida D. Jagudilla/RLRBalistoy-PIA 10, Bukidnon)

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) awarded its 10 out of 66 scholars who graduated this year with Latin honors. They each receive a DOST medal and cash incentives. (Photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut)

OIC, PENRO Nestor Canda conducts information, education and communication campaign on Waste Management at the Bohol Cultural Center as part of the activities for the month-long celebration of the Ocean Month. The provincial government of Bohol in coordination with the member agencies of the Bohol Coastal Resource Management Task Force (BCRMTF) lead the Boholano community in the celebration of the month of May as Month of the Ocean.(mbcn/ECB/PIA-Bohol)

Mindanao Economic Development Authority (MinDa) Director Rey Tan presents several issues and concerns written down by stakeholders and Oro Chamber officials and trustees in the Policy Agenda Setting for the 22nd Mindanao Business Conference. Among the issues discussed were on rice insufficiency, mining, risk reduction, peace and order and Mindanao power situation. (JMOR/PIA10)

The Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital and Department of Health Region 3 launches on May 6 the 6th Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2013 at JBL Auditorium in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. Dr. Agnes Gaddi discusses Cervical Cancer to more than a hundred people, of barangay health workers, nurses, and doctors during the said event. (Photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut/PIA3)

The "Saulog Tagbilaran" culmination activity highlights the traditional street dancing competition for the feast of St. Joseph, the worker, where 9 out of the 15 barangays in Tagbilaran City danced their way form the Old City Hall site to the New City Hall on April 30, 2013. The nine contingents included barangays Bool, Booy, Mansasa, Cabawan, Poblacion 1, Poblacion 2, Manga, Cogon and Ubujan. (mbcn/ECB/PIA7-Bohol)

Dumaguete City employees collected some trash at the shoreline of barangay Calindagan during the coastal clean-up drive held recently. (LPP/PIA7-NegOr)

About 200 police officers from PRO-7, Cebu City, along with 200 more from PRO-10 will be deployed to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to compose the Special Board of Election Inspectors (SBEIs). (PSupt Ronnie Francis M. Cariaga/ PRO 10)

NNC-7 Head Dr. Parolita A. Mission (at the rostrum) presents the National Salt Iodization Program during the National Nutrition Council Stakeholder's Forum on Salt Iodization Program at Cebu Grand Hotel on May 3, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

DOH-CHD 7 HEPO II Ligaya I. Moneva updates the participants on the Iodine Deficiency Disorders in Central Visayas, Region 7. A forum was held at Grand Cebu Hotel on May 3, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

national Nutrition Council-7 Nutrition Officer Susan Orpilla presents the overview of the forum in the recently concluded National Nutrition Council Stakeholder's Forum on Salt Iodization Program at Cebu Grand Hotel on May 3, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

(L-R) Salinas Food, Inc. Key Area Officers Julie Rojales, DOH-CHD 7 LRED Chief Elizabeth P. Tabasa, NNC-7 Head Dr. Parolita A. Mission, FDA-7 Supervisor Rica Reina C. Aumentado and PPA-Bohol Terminal Manager Yolando Ponce were the guests speakers during the National Nutrition Council Stakeholder's Forum on Salt Iodization Program at Cebu Grand Hotel on May 3, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Norita Froilan, Senior Science research specialist of Department of Energy (DOE) Manila, shares household energy saving concepts and tips especially on lighting, cooking, laundry/washing/ironing, refrigerator, cooling and ventilation and entertainment during the DOE Energy Efficiency and Conservation Seminar at N Hotel, Kauswagan Highway on May 6. (RTPaculba/PIA)

Kick-off ceremony of Labor Day celebration highlighted by a job fair and the distribution of P1.6-million worth of SPES checks led by DOLE-Zamboanga del Sur Field Office held at Gaisano Mall Food Court, Pagadian City, May 1, 2013. (PIA)

Department of Labor and Employment 7 RD Chona Mantilla (w/microphone) during the recent AGIO 7 forum scores the vital role of labor relations/standards & social dialog. (AYS/PIA-7)

A religious fluvial celebration from Manga Port to Sitio Ubos in Poblacion I highlights the pre-fiesta celebration in honor of St. Joseph, the worker, in Tagbilaran City, Bohol on May 6, 2013. (PIA-Bohol/ECB)

DOLE Zamboanga del Sur Field Office chief Lourdes Amores delivers her welcome message during the Labor Day celebration on May 1 at Gaisano Mall Food Court, Pagadian City. The event was featured by the distribution of P1.6 million worth of SPES checks to 540 grantees and a job fair. (PIA)

Board of Investments (BOI) Executive Director Lucita P. Reyes (2nd from right) awards the BOI Certificate of Registration to Mirae Asia Energy Corp., headed by its President JongSoo Bae (center), on May 2, 2013. (DTI-PRO)

DOH-CHD 7 LRED Chief Elizabeth P. Tabasa welcomes the guests, stakeholders and the media during the National Nutrition Council Stakeholder's Forum on Salt Iodization Program at Cebu Grand Hotel on May 3, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

DOLE-Zamboanga del Sur head Lourdes B. Amores distributes checks to SPES grantees during the the Labor Day celebration at Gaisano Food Court, Pagadian City. (PIA)

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (6th from left) leads a ceremonial send-off of 35 metric tons (MT) of rice to Dubai, comprising of 15 MT of organic black rice (above) and 20 MT of Jasponica aromatic, long-grain white rice, at the Manila Harbor Center, May 6, 2013. (Photo by Kathrino Resurreccion, DA Information Service)

(L-R) Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) 4A Regional Director Josefina Castilla-Go along with Batangas City Mayor Vilma Dimacuha lead the ribbon-cutting of the newly-renovated building of environment and peace, one of the infra projects of the city government that aims to provide a more improved service to Batangas City constituents. (Photo: PIO-Batangas City/caption: Bhaby De Castro, PIA-Batangas)

More than 2,000 runners from various government agencies, youth groups, academe and volunteers join the Fun Run for Secure and Safe Fair Election 2013 held in Cagayan de Oro City last Sunday. (RDMendoza, PIA-10)

Batangas PNP Provincial Director Atty. Rosauro Acio delivers a send-off message to 66 of its personnel before deployment to the different municipalities in the province. Said police personnel will assist in keeping the orderly distribution of PCOS machine and election materials in the different towns in Batangas. The police vowed to be watchful to prevent any untoward incidence relating to the forthcoming national elections. (Photo & caption: Bhaby P. De Castro, PIA-Batangas)

PNP Batangas personnel enjoy the boodle fight after the send-off ceremony for the 66 police personnel that will be deployed in the different municipalities in Batangas to assist in the orderly distribution of PCOS machines and other election materials. (Photo & caption: Bhaby De Castro, PIA-Batangas)

A visiting South Korean delegation composed of government officials and dancers visited the province of Laguna recently. Included in their itinerary was a tour of the world-famous Pagsanjan Falls. In photo, the South Korean delegation posed for posterity at the Cultural Center of Laguna, provincial capitol, Sta. Cruz, Laguna. (Photo: PIO-Laguna/Caption: ACO, PIA-Laguna)

Atty. Mia Quijano, officer-in-charge of the City Traffic Management Office (CTMO) (2nd from left) leads the awarding of certificates of recognition to traffic enforces who have shown exemplary honesty and efficiency in the dispatch of their duties. The awarding was held during the flag-raising ceremony last April 29, 2013 at the One-Stop Processing Center, San Pablo City. (Photo & caption: PIO-SPC/ACO, PIA-Laguna)

An all-women team of the Board of Election Inspectors (BEI) in Catbalogan City compares the computer and manual results during the final testing and sealing of PCOS machines in Catbalogan City today. This is part of their duties in the coming May 13, 2013 elections. (NBQ/PIA8)

Fun Run for a Secure and Safe Fair Election 2013 winners in the 5 kilometers (top photos) and 10 kilometers (lower photos) run for both men and women categories held here in Cagayan de Oro City on Sunday. The event was organized by the Commission on Elections Office region 10, Xavier University and Namfrel. (RDMendoza, PIA-10 )

Provincial Governor Eduardo “Lolong” C. Firmalo, M.D. (center) leads the release of matured female green turtle (Chelonia Mydas), commonly known as “pawikan” with carapace length of 90 centimeters and width of 81 centimeters at the shore of Sitio Tabing-ilog, Barangay Batiano, Odiongan, Romblon. (Photo by Ban Toxics)

Catbalogan City Comelec conducts the final testing and sealing of PCOS machines at the City Plaza stage today. The Bureau of Election Inspectors (BEI) from remote Barangay Cagusipan, Catbalogan City, chaired by Sir Jovito Baybay with two members, join many others in their duties for this coming midterm elections on May 13, 2013. (PIA8)

Jennilyne C. Role, regional director of PIA in Ilocos, presents the workshop output of the Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Sector before members of the Regional Development Council. The output includes the revalidation of Results Matrix in the Regional Development Plan during the Regional Consultations on the Philippine Development Plan midterm update for Region 1 at the Hotel Ariana, Bauang, La Union.

Iloilo City Comelec Election Supervisor Atty. Jomar Betita clarifies certain issues and concerns regarding the upcoming May 13 midterm polls in a briefing with government information officers and members of the media held today at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA-6) Conference Room. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Mindanao (PCCI-Mindanao) convenes on May 6, 2013 at the Oro Chamber Business Development Center, Pueblo de Oro, Cagayan de Oro city to generate Mindanao Business Policy Agenda for the upcoming 22nd Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) on August in Davao City. (JMOR/PIA10)

Butuan City Commission on Elections personnel headed by city election officer Atty. Ernie Palanan, Special Weapon & Tactics (SWAT) Unit and volunteers are shown removing illegally-posted campaign materials in various streets of the city on May 4, as part of the “Operation Langkat” and to help maintain cleanliness in the city. (NCLM/Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA-Caraga)

Illegally-posted campaign materials were removed from trees, electric posts and areas which are not allowed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) during the “Operation Langkat” headed by Butuan City Election Officer Atty. Ernie Palanan. With the team are the Special Weapon & Tactics (SWAT) Unit, volunteers and PIA-Caraga headed by Regional Director Abner Caga. (NCLM/Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA-Caraga)

Butuan City COMELEC election officer Atty. Ernie Palanan and PIA-Caraga Regional Director Abner Caga check & monitor the PCOS machines that are housed at the Father Saturnino Urios University Morelos Campus. PCOS machines will be used in the different barangays in Butuan City during the midterm elections on May 13, 2013. (NCLM/Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA-Caraga)

President Benigno Aquino III on May 1 highlights some of the significant accomplishments of his administration in his home province of Tarlac under the Tuwid na daan (Straight path) battle cry. Among those are the total number of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries, classroom constructions, Sitio Electrification Program and the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX). (Photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut/PIA3)

The Regional Project Monitoring Committee of the Regional Development Council III head and also National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Regional Director Severino Santos (3rd from left) inspects the Phase-III of PHUMP which is the Pasig-Potrero River Basin. Together with him are (L) Contractor Yoshinori Ikeda from Toyo Construction Co., Ltd.; Japan International Cooperative Agency - Flood Control Consultant Brent Berry; (4th from L) Department of Interior and Local Government Central Luzon Division Chief Marty Moral; (2nd from R) NEDA Knowledge and Management Division Chief Mar Franco and Department of Public Works and Highways - Central Office OIC-Division Chief Bobby Sario. (photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut/PIA3)

Department of Tourism-6 (DOT-6) Regional Director Atty. Helen Catalbas (1st from left) signs the Memorandum of Agreement with the Iloilo Pamunit Festival Association, Inc. for the conduct of the 1st Iloilo Pamunit Festival Fishing Competition to be held in Anhawan, Oton here on May 18-19, 2013. Also in the photo are Manuel Bong San Agustin (1st from right), president of the Iloilo Pamunit Festival Association and Ian Mayen Sant (center), board of director of the same association are also signatories of the MOA. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Of the total 1,132 jobseekers hired-on-the-spot during April 30 Job and Livelihood Fair in Tarlac City, among them are Analyn Castro and Navarone Maglalang. Both will now be part of the production team of International Wiring Systems Inc. (Photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut/PIA3)

Various Filipino organizations in Jordan reach out to less fortunate OFWs staying in the Philippine Embassy, planning activities and providing needed support to their fellow OFWs. (Marjorie T. Majorenos)

(Right photo) David Isaac Buenaventura, project director The Bright Leaf Agriculture Journalism Awards, shares to the local media that they are looking for the best agricultural stories and photos in print, radio and television, with special attention on their impact on current agricultural issues and best farming practices on environmental safety and crop sustainability during the press briefing of the competition at Mallberry Suites, Florentino Street, Cagayan de Oro City on April 29, 2013. (RTPaculba, PIA10)

CENRO Marlon Francia (extreme right) of Legazpi City, Oplan Baklas team leader surveys illegally posted campaign materials along major thoroughfares. The joint task force composed of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) DENR, Phil. National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and Phil. Air Force Tactical Operations Group 5 manages to dismantle heaps of campaign materials which violate Presidential Decree 953 and Republic Act 9006 or the Fair Election Act. (MAL/JSBasanta-DENR-5/PIA5)

LCDR Godofredo G. Vagilidad, deputy, acting chief of Staff for Maritime Safety Services, CG-8, presents the drafted Memorandum Circulars which centered on the Operational of Recreational Watercrafts, Operational of Pleasure Yacht, Conducting Marine Parades, Regattas and other events and the Safety and Security Requirements of Coastal and Beach Resorts and Vessels with Pool Facilities, including Qualification and Requirements of Lifeguard at the Headquarters Coast Guard District Northern Mindanao Multi-Purpose Hall, Corrales Extension, Port Area on April 30. (RTPaculba, PIA10)

Commission on Human Rights (CHR) chairperson Loretta Rosales (left) delivers today the country's state of human rights and the CHR's performance in the past year during the Commission's 26th Foundation Anniversary. Rosales said the number of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings and torture cases in 2013 have been significantly reduced compared to 2010's statistics. (Emver Cortez/PIA-NCR)

Beware of fake bills. P150,000 bogus money was recently recovered by police operatives in the province. Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas confirms they are fake. (NOPPO-PIO/PIA6-lol)

Parañaque City Mayor Florencio Bernabe Jr. gives his welcome remarks during the Integrated Cooperative Development for the Supply Chain of Parañaque Enterprises and Orientation on Social Audit and Performance Report Audit Forum recently held at the Forum Hall of PAGCOR Casino Filipino in Parañaque. (PARAÑAQUE-PIO/PIA-NCR)

Around 350 indigent Parañaque senior citizens recently receive their social pension at the Parañaque City Hall. The DSWD’s Social Pension Program is provided under Republic Act 9994. Program implementation is being handled by the Parañaque Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) in cooperation with the City Health Office and the City Social Welfare and Development Office. (PARAÑAQUE-PIO/PIA-NCR)

Architect Niel Leabriz Tamba, casts his vote at the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during the OFW Absentee Voting. This is his first time to vote abroad after five years of being an OFW in Saudi Arabia. He is a native of Sibalom, Antique. (MLG/PSM/PIA6 Antique)

Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) 10 director, Atty. Johnson G. Cañete welcomes ‘Lakaw ta Para sa Bata’ participants from various government agencies, private companies and labor groups. The walk for cause was done simultaneously all over the region to kick off this year’s Labor Day celebration. (Rodolfo D. Mendoza, PIA-10)

Director Romeo Montenegro, director of Investments Relations and Public Affairs of Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), explains the aim of Mindanao Congress of the Advocates for Renewable Energy and Rural Electrification and Development (MinCARED) in seeking sustainable solution for the Mindanao Power Crisis during the MinCARED 2013 Press Conference at N Hotel, Kauswagan Highway on April 30. (RTPaculba, PIA10)

A total of 481 participants successfully completed their skills training and received their certificates during the Graduation Ceremony at the Grand Caprice last April 26, 2013. The skills training program is a continuing joint project of the city government and the TESDA region 10. (CDO CIO)

President Benigno S. Aquino III told Pangasinenses that part of taxes paid by the public is being used to construct, repair and rehabilitate road networks all over the country. President was in Pangasinan on May 2 to inaugurate the P20 million, 1.6 km. Lingayen – Binmaley Bypass Road project in Brgy. Quibaol. (photo by E. Naungayan/PIA-R.1)

President Benigno S. Aquino III waves to the crowd as his vehicle passes through on the 1.6 km Lingayen–Binmaley bypass road in Pangasinan during its inaugural. The alternate route in brgy. Quibaol cuts travel time by 10 minutes. Aquino said better and stronger roads translate to more economic opportunities and better lives for everyone. (Photo by Vic Villanueva, Jr./PIA-R.1)

President Benigno S. Aquino III (right photo) speaks of the accomplishments of the Aquino administration during a meeting with local leaders and community folks (left photo) at the Lingayen 1 Central School in Pangasinan on Thursday. Aquino said more than 100,000 poor families in the province were already listed under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, the government’s conditional cash transfer program. (PIA Photo by Roland Naoe/PIA-Pangasinan)

COMELEC Provincial Election Supervisor lawyer Elizabeth Doronila says that official ballots for Capiz are already in the province in view of the May 13, 2013 elections during a media briefing last May 2 at the COMELEC Provincial Office in Roxas City. (PIA Capiz photo/A. Lumaque)

Acting Cebu Governor Agnes Magpale (left) leading the "Panunumpa sa Pagdaginot sa Humay" or Rice Pledge with officials from Cebu local government units and national government agencies during the launching of the National Year of Rice 2013 at the Capitol Social Hall, Cebu City on April 30, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Eastern Visayas Occupational Safety and Health Network President Angelita Dimzon (left) of Energy Development Corporation delivers her keynote speech during the 111th Labor Day commemorative program held at the Tacloban City Convention Center, May 1. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Fourth Leyte Engineering District led by D.E. Lino Francisco C. Gonzalez (2nd left) prioritizes the repair of national road located within the city proper of Ormoc City where road widening is on-going at the Ormoc District Hospital. (PIA-8/4th LED)

Applicants fill out application forms for employment during the job fair in connection with the 111th Labor Day celebration at the Tacloban City Convention Center, May 1. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

DOE Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla (center) pose with members of Cebu media whom he considered as a tool in his aim to let the public understand power/electricity issue during the Visayas Power Summit at Waterfront Hotel, Cebu City. (FCC/PIA Cebu)

An applicant fill out application form for employment during the job fair in connection with the 111th Labor Day celebration at the Tacloban City Convention Center, May 1. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

An advocate of organic agriculture in Siquijor, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Max Tenorio, wears the "Go Organic" shirt during a Municipal Organic Agriculture Board (MOAB) briefing at Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor. With him are farmer cooperator and awardee Genaro Suan of San Juan and Provincial Environment and Natural Officer Teddy Barral. Speaking in front is provincial focal person Bernadith Bunado of the Department of Agriculture-Siquijor. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

The Product Development and Agri-Processing Plant in Aborlan, Palawan buys mango and coconut harvests of local farmers and employs rural women in the different stages of its processing plant. DOST Sec. Mario Montejo who inaugurated the project recently said that this is an example of what inclusive growth is - that everybody partakes and share in development of the country. (Photo by V. Mendoza)

Sa tuluy-tuloy na pagpapakongkreto ng mga daan sa iba’t ibang panig ng lalawigan, pinangunahan kamakailan ni Gobernador Alfonso V. Umali Jr. ang pagpapasinaya at pagbubukas ng kalsada sa Barangay Canubing II, lungsod ng Calapan, kasama sina Brgy. Capt. Domingo Pangilinan, mga opisyal at mga mamamayan ng nasabing barangay. (CPRSD/Mark C. Maliksi/PIA-Calapan City)

Acting Cebu Gov. Agnes Magpale (3rd from right) unveiling the banner for the National Year of Rice 2013 celebration in Cebu during the launching program at the Capitol Social Hall, Cebu City. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

DA-7 officials, staff and guests listen to the message of commitment of Cebu Acting Gov. Agnes Magpale during the launching of the National Year of Rice 2013 at the Capitol Social Hall, Cebu City on April 30, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

(L-R, seated) Candidates for Governor of Cebu Pablo John Garcia (NUP) and Hermilito Bulala (IND), Candidate for Vice Governor Glen Anthony Soco (PMP), Candidates for Representative of Cebu North District Pablo "Junex" Doronio Jr. (IND), Vicente Tan Manalac (IND), Donato Navarro (CDP), Florencio Villarin (IND), Candidate for Representative of Cebu South District Aristotle Batuhan (UNA), Candidate for Vice Mayor of Cebu City Edgardo Labella (UNA) and Candidate for Mayor of Cebu City Michael Rama (IND) during the 4th and final round of the Mega Cebu Candidates Forum at the Cebu Cultural Center, Cebu City on April 29, 2013. Carol Go Ballesteros (far left) of Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.is the host of the forum. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Job seekers look to a better future as they wait for their turn to be interviewed by their employers during the job fair in connection with the 111th Labor Day celebration held at the Tacloban City Convention Center, May 1. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Members of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE), led by the 4th Leyte Engineering District D.E. Lino Francisco C. Gonzalez, conducted a clean-up drive on April 20, at the Ormoc City waterways and river bank along the National Highway with the theme, “Bawasan ang Basura Bawasan ang Baha.” (DPWH-4th LED/PIA-8)

The Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC), in coordination with the Dept. of Labor and Employment (DOLE), sponsors a Job Fair in Dumaguete City in celebration of Labor Day at the Robinsons Place, Dumaguete City on May 1. (LPP/PIA Negros Oriental)

DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo leads the launching and inauguration of the Product Development and Agri-Processing Plant in Aborlan town in Palawan. With him are (from left) Marylou Hontiveros-Fernando of Nature’s Tropical Delight Inc., DOST Director Ma. Josefina Abilay and Celsa Adier, representative of Palawan Governor Baham Mitra. At the back is Aborlan Councilor Ortega and DA-MIMAROPA RD Atty. CiprianoSantiago. (Photo by V. Mendoza)

Thousands flock at the Tacloban City Convention Center for the job fair in connection with the 111th Labor Day celebration, May 1. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Assistant Secretary Ma. Joji V. Aragon gives her message in behalf of DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz during the opening ceremony for the May 1 Job Fair held at SM City Iloilo. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Jobseekers check the listings of job vacancies for local and overseas employments in the May 1 Labor Day Job Fair conducted by the Department of Labor and Employment 6 (DOLE-6) at SM City Iloilo. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Applicants fill out application forms for employment during the job fair in connection with the 111th Labor Day celebration at the Tacloban City Convention Center, May 1. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

The Department of Agriculture (DA) in partnership with corn industry groups recently sent an initial shipment of 24 metric tons (in a 40-foot container, background) of corn feed silage for cattle to Busan, South Korea. DA Secretary Proceso Alcala is shown leading the send-off, April 30, 2013, at the Manila International Container Terminal, Port of Manila. (Photo by Alan Jay Jacalan, DA Information Service)

President Benigno Aquino III graces Talac Job and Livelihood Fair today at St. Michael's Park Covered Court, Camp Servillano Aquino in Tarlac City, carrying the theme "Manggagawang Pilipino, Handa sa Hamon ng Makabagong Panahon." Department of Labor and Employment Undersecretary Danilo Cruz (L) tours the President and inspects the booths of the event. (Photo by Roel Lazaro/PIA3)

Mylene Gomez, 28, an OFW in Qatar and a native of Tarlac province had a skype interview with his Father, Isaias (in green), and an OWWA official during today's Job and Livelihood Fair held in the said province. Gomez is working in an Engineering Department in Qatar. (Photo by Roel Lazaro/PIA3)

Bro. Adrian Atanducan (3rd fr l, 2nd row) is the guest speaker during the awarding ceremonies of the Ten Outstanding Students of Cordillera Administrative Region (OSCAR) 2013. Also in photo are the awardees and the members of the Regional Executive Committee. (Redjie Cawis PIA-CAR)

President Benigno Aquino III inspects the Tarlac Job and Livelihood Fair held today at St. Michael's Park Covered Court, Camp Servillano Aquino, Tarlac City, together with (L in white) Department of Labor and Employment Undersecretary Danilo Cruz, and (R in pink) Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Secretary Joel Villanueva. A total of 41 local and 25 overseas participating employers with 2,522 local and 35,000 overseas job vacancies are up for grabs in the two-day job fair. (Photo by Roel Lazaro/PIA3)

The Ten Outstanding Students of the Cordillera Administrative Region (OSCAR) with Regional Selection Board and supporters during the awarding ceremonies at the Baguio City Hall. (Redjie Cawis, PIA-CAR)

Another feature of the 2013 Labor Day Job & Livelihood Fairs in Iloilo City is the Help Desk manned by personnel of DOLE 6 and its attached agencies and Land Bank of the Philippines to assist Overseas Filipino Workers, other workers and job applicants in their welfare related concerns and other needs. (LAF/PIA6)

Mountains along the Halsema Highway are frequent victims of forest fires, some because of the extreme weather conditions and some are man-made just like this along Atok in Benguet. The public is enjoined to help in preserving Mother Earth. (Redjie Cawis, PIA CAR)

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan welcomes the participants during the National Capital Region Regional Consultation for the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) Midterm Updating and Results Matrix Revalidation held at the Occupational Safety and Health Center, Quezon City Monday, April 29, 2013. Also in photo are DDG Emmanuel F. Esguerra and ADG Rosemarie G. Edillon. (Photo by Jenny Rose G. Red and Jell E. Guzman/PIA-NCR)

Pag-IBIG holds a meeting with employers and employees from the government and private sector in Dipolog. (Mary May A. Abellon, PIA9/Zambo Norte)

Former Health Secretary Esperanza Cabral poses with Partido Manggawa Secretary General Judith Miranda and the rest of the Purple Ribbon for RH (Reproductive Health) Movement after announcing their support for the candidacies of Risa Hontiveros, Sonny Angara, Grace Poe, Alan Peter Cayetano, Loren Legarda, Chiz Escudero and Bam Aquino. In between them is a box representing a precinct count optical scan machine.Cabral said the seven were chosen on following criteria: support for RH Law, good position on social justice and public service with integrity. (Lyndon Plantilla/Media ng Bayan)

The members of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-IX have convened recently in Dipolog City for the regional consultation on the 2011-2016 Philippine Development Plan (PDP).

Department of Labor and Employment 6 (DOLE-6) Regional Director Ponciano Ligutom (with the microphone) answers queries from the members of the media during the press briefing for the 2013 Labor Month Celebration held today, May 1 at Highway 21 Hotel here. Also in the photo are DOLE-6 Assistant Regional Director Salome Siaton (right) and Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in Western Visayas Board Secretary Nesa Nolido (left). (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

DOLE Assistant Secretary Joji Aragon, DOLE 6 Director Ponciano Ligutom and PSEA President Pearl Janet Gorriceta cut the ceremonial ribbon to open the 2013 Labor Day Job & Livelihood Fairs at Mary Mart Mall, Iloilo City, May 1. Some 89 local companies and overseas recruitment agencies participated in the job fair which offered 28,729 job vacancies. (LAF/PIA6)

Members of the Association of Negros Oriental Public Information Officers (ANOPIO) gather for a social media training conducted by Romualdo Seneris (extreme left) of Visayan Forum at the PIA Dumaguete office. (LPP/PIA NEGOR)

The Mythical Team namely: Mary Angelus Z. Mocrales from CALABARZON; Jessa A. Paredes from Region 7; Ana Maria H. Del Rosario from Region 6; and Alyssa L. Villamor from Region 11 and Je-Anne L. Carmelo from NCR, who is also named as the MVP receive college scholarships from Ever Bilena Cosmetics Inc., one of the Platinum sponsors of the 2013 Palarong Pambansa. (DepEd)

Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory L. Domingo checks the prices of tasty breads during price monitoring visit in a supermarket in Paco, Manila. During the visit, the inspection team found out that the price of basic goods and prime commodities are generally stable and are within the suggested retail price, except for sugar which rose from P 40 to P 42 due to increased demand of sugar for use in “palamig” drinks this summer season.Together with the Secretary is DTI Usec. Zenaida Cuison- Maglaya. (DTI-PRO)

Lagawe, Ifugao Mayor Ceasario Cabbigat (l) leads the cutting of the ribbon that formally opened the agro-industrial fair featuring the exhibit of the one-town-one-product (OTOP) of the municipality during the “Kulpi ad Lagawe 2013”. (Mhars B. Lihgawon, PIA-Ifugao)

Officials of University of the Cordilleras(UC), formerly the Baguio Colleges Foundation, lead by President Dr. Ricardo Pama (with mic) present the UC topnotchers in the April 2013 Criminologist Licensure Examination where nine of the UC examinees are in the top 10. The board placers are led by topnotcher Roland Bayangan. All the school's 113 examinees passed for a 100 percent passing rate. This feat strengthens the hold of UC as the top performing criminology school in the country. (Redjie Cawis PIA-CAR)

Pinangunahan ni Gobernador Alfonso V. Umali, Jr. kamakailan ang pagpapasinaya at pagbubukas ng kalsada sa Barangay Urdaneta sa bayan ng Victoria, kasama ang mga opisyal ng Pamahalaang Bayan ng Victoria, Mayor Alfredo Ortega, Jr., Dolor Gasic, Municipal Councilor Pinky Gahol, Bokal Ryan Arago, LP Board Member Candidates Apollo Feraren, Juan Paulo Luna, Brgy. Capt. Gregorio Geducos at mamamayan ng barangay. (CPRSD/Mark C. Maliksi/PIA-Calapan City)

Kabilang ang barangay Panikian sa bayan ng Pola sa tuluy-tuloy na pagpapakongkreto ng mga daan sa iba’t ibang panig ng lalawigan. Pinangunahan ni Gobernador Alfonso V. Umali, Jr. kamakailan ang pagpapasinaya at pagbubukas ng kalsada sa kasama si Jennifer “Ina Alegre” Cruz, Bokal Ryan Arago, LP Board Member Candidates Atty. Raf Infantado at Juan Paulo Luna, mga opisyal ng barangay, sa pangunguna ni Brgy. Capt. Edilberto L. Fedelino, at mga mamamayan ng Barangay Panikihan. (CPRSD/Mark C. Maliksi/PIA-Calapan City)

Some 355 Philippine National Police 8 (PNP 8) personnel avail of the Local Absentee Voting for the May 13 National and Local Elections at Matapat Hall, Camp Kangleon, Palo, Leyte on April 29. (Vino R. Cuayzon/R8)

Energy Sec. Carlos Jericho Petilla (standing) addresses the issues and questions raise by participants during the Visayas Power Summit on April 26 in Cebu City. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Energy Sec. Carlos Jericho Petilla (left) and Cebu City Michael Rama (right) during the signing of the resolution and covenant for the Collective Action Towards Competitive Power in the Visayas at thw Waterfront Hotel, Cebu City on April 26, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

The Ten Outstanding Students of the Cordillera Administrative Region (OSCAR) are recognized Thursday in awarding ceremonies at the the Baguio City Hall Multi-purpose Center. The awardees will represent the Cordilleras in the search for the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP). The awardees are Nick Sibaen from Benguet State University; Raymond Sakiwat from University of Baguio; Leonardo Visaya Jr. and Chastity Wacdagan of Kalinga-Apayao State College; Julienne Fortunato from University of the Cordilleras; Prolen Bonacua from Philippine Military Academy; Jordan Luther Basawil and Ronald Bustos from Saint Louis University; Luisa Gay Antonio from Ifugao State University and Ginalyn Brioso from Abra State Institute of Science and Technology. They will represent the Cordillera in the search for the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

Sina Eric Panique (kaliwa) at Mary Grace Delos Santos (kanan) ang naghari sa 21K male and female categories sa matagumpay na 2nd Del Run (Save the Marikina Watershed) na ginanap sa Marikina Sports Park noong Linggo, ika-28 ng Abril. Layunin ng takbuhan na makalikom ng pondo para sa pagpapayabong at pangangalaga ng Marikina Wateshed. (Marikina PIO)

Cebu City Mayor Michael L Rama (at the rostrum) welcoming the participants and stakeholders from Regions 6, 7, and 8 during the Visayas Power Summit on April 26 at the Waterfront Cebu Hotel. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

(l-r) Government Service Insurance System-Bacolod Branch Manager Ma. Vilma Fuentes calls the 24/7 Contact Center of the GSIS witness by GSIS Vice President for Applications Management Jean Rusela Bengo and Vice President for Visayas Operations Group Salvacion Mate to show an example to the media in a press conference during the soft launching of the Contact Center where Bacolod is the pilot area in the Visayas.*(EAD-PIA6 photo)

Isa, dalawa, takbo! Kumaripas sa pagtakbo ang may 1,500 na kalahok sa 2nd Del Run (Save the Marikina Watershed) na naglalayong makatulong sa pangangalaga ang Marikina Watershed na nagsisilbing unang depensa laban sa pagbaha. Ang fun run ay binubuo ng tatlong kategorya: 5K male and female, 10K male and female, at 21K male and female. Ito ay ginanap nitong Abril 28 sa Marikina Sports Park. (Marikina PIO)

Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga personnel avail the Local Absentee Voting (LAV) Monday (April 29) at the PIA regional office. Evelyn Gonzales and Flor Evangeline Japitan (1st & 2nd from left) from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Butuan City supervised the personnel during the said voting. (Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA-Caraga)

A member of the Philippine National Police 8 (PNP 8) chooses his candidates for senators and partylist representatives for the May 13 National and Local Elections during the Local Absentee Voting held at the Matapat Hall, Camp Kangleon, Palo, Leyte, April 29. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Energy stakeholders from Visayas listening to Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho L. Petilla giving his message during the Visayas Power Summit at the Waterfront Cebu Hotel and Casino in Cebu City. Sec. Petilla later presents the Visayas Power Supply Demand Outlook and the www.kuryente.org.ph website. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Regional Director Abner M. Caga of Philippine Information Agency Caraga region availlllllllllllllllllllls the Local Absentee Voting (LAV) on Monday, April 29 at the PIA regional office. With director Caga are Evelyn Gonzales and Flor Evangeline Japitan (bottom right photo) of Butuan City Commission on Elections (Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA-Caraga).

University of the Cordilleras (formerly Baguio Colleges Foundation) President Dr. Ricardo Pama, Vice President for Administration Dr. Leonarda Aguinalde and College of Criminology Justice Education Dean Dr. Ariel Pumecha present the UC topnotchers in the April 2013 Criminology Licensure Examination where nine of the UC examinees are landed in the top 10, led by Roland Bayangan (2nd from left). UC is named as the top performing criminology school in the country by the Professional Regulation Commission. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA CAR)

President Benigno Aquino delivers his message at the inauguration of Maguino-o Port Passenger Terminal Building in Calbayog City on April 26. Also in photo are (l-r) DILG secretary Mar Roxas, Senator Franklin Drilon, 1st district of Samar Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento and DOTC Usec Julianito Bucayan. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

President Benigno Aquino leads the unveiling of the marker of the new Maguino-o Port Passenger Terminal Building in Calbayog City on April 26. With the President are Senator Franklin Drilon, Department of Interior and Local Government secretary Mar Roxas, 1st district of Samar Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento DOTC usec Julianito Bucayan PPA district manager Fernando Claveria and PPA Tacloban Manager Dominador Licayan. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

The P38.5 million worth Maguino-o Port Passenger Terminal Building inaugurated by the President Benigno Aquino in Calbayog City on April 26. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Department of Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (2nd from right) hands over a certificate of project completion of the repair of communal irrigation systems (CIS) in Polillo group of islands, in Quezon to Bernardino Mutya, president of the Bislian Malaki CIS, during a field visit on April 15, 2013. The project is worth P9.4 million. (Photo by Kathrino Resurreccion, DA Information Service)

Vice President Jejomar Binay (center) with members of the DA delegation during the kick-off of the luncheon and cocktail reception for the Philippine Exhibition - Archipelago of Exchange at the Branly Museum in Paris, France, on 8 April 2013. (Photo by Juan Wyns)

Aljon Mariano, who plays for the UST Growling Tigers and captain of "Team Muggsy," takes home the Most Valuable Player award for leading his team to a 52-46 victory against "Team Jolas" during the Jr. NBA Alumni All-Star basketball game held at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City on Sunday. Joining him are NBA Legend Tyrone Curtis "Muggsy" Bogues who flew in from the United States to coach their team and PBA Legend Jojo "Jolas" Lastimosa who coached the other team. (Photo by Jerome Carlo Paunan/PIA-NCR)

Al Emil Berador, chief geologist of DENR 7, answers questions from local media in a recent AGIO-7 forum as he discloses the agency's measures in maintaining a clean and safe environment amid campaign polls and the observance of Earth Day. (AYS/PIA 7)

Cebu electoral candidates (L-R) Liloan Mayor Vincent Franco Frasco and Mandaue City Mayor Victor Biano during the Mega Cebu Candidates Forum 2013 Third Round in Cebu Cultural Center. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

President Aquino instill to voters, during his visit in Ozamiz City on April 27 to choose candidates who will guide the community to the right path and willing to eliminate violence and corruption. (PIA 10)

DOST officials award the public libraries of LGUs of Mabinay, Bayawan and Dumaguete City with a Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station or STARBOOKS. (LPP/PIA NEGOR)

Baguio City Hall Public Information Office Head and former Baguio Correspondents and Broadcasters Club President Ramon Dacawi lectures on the importance and the role of the information officers in dissemination of information from their respective offices and agencies during the Association of Government Information Offices in the Cordillera meeting at the PIA-Cordillera regional office in Baguio City (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

Baguio City Jail inmates join the observance of the Earth Day by drawing posters and expressing what they feel about the earth outside of their jail houses. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

Baguio City Jail inmates join the observance of the Earth Day Monday by drawing posters and expressing what they feel about the earth outside of their jail houses. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

Baguio City Jail female inmates model with their garments made from recycled materials and other indigenous materials during the Earth Day observance of the Baguio City Jail . (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

More than 9,500 job vacancies will be offered during the Grand labor Day Jobs Fair on May 1 and 2at the Baguio Convention Center sponsored by the City Government of Baguio through its Public Employment Service Office and in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-CAR) in celebration of Labor Day 2013. In a kapihan forum, here, the DOLE officials (l-r) Overseas Worker Welfare Administration head Manuela Pena, DOLE Assistant director Teodoro Delson, DOLE Regional Director John Henry Jalbuena, TESDA regional director Yolanda Olano and POEA head Delfina Camarillo, encourage job seekers take advantage of this opportunity and prepare the necessary documents when filing their applications. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

PIA Manager Margie L. Gadian clarifies a voting procedure during election day in a command conference among stakeholders, Commission on Election, Philippine National Police, Philippine Army and other agencies at SP Session Hall, San Jose, Antique. Leading the activity are PSSupt. Marlon M. Ganzon, Antique PNP Provincial Director; Atty. Ian Lee Ananoria, Provincial Election Supervisor and Lt. Col Aldwine Almase, Battalion Commander, 82nd IB, Philippine Army. (MLG/PSM/PIA6 Antique)

San Mateo, Rizal elementary and high school teachers train in Disaster and Risk Reduction Management through the Department of Science and Technology with the Department of Education and Office of Civil Defense - Regional Risk Reduction and Management Council at the DepEd Regional Educational Learning Center, Marikina City. (GG-PIA4A)

Hotel And Restaurant Association of Baguio President Anthony De Leon (r) raises the hands of the Baguio City mayoralty candidates who were guests during the last leg of the Baguo Leaders Forum at the Baguio Country Club last week. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

Provincial Treasurer Sherlita Mahandog assures the support of all treasurers in the 18 municipalities of the province as custodian of election supply, forms and paraphernalia for the upcoming May 13, 2013 election during the command conference among stakeholders, Commission on Election, Philippine National Police, Philippine Army and other agencies at SP Session Hall, San Jose, Antique. (MLG/PSM/PIA6 Antique)

Philippine Army Multi-Stakeholder Symposium. 11th Infantry (Lapu-Lapu) Battalion, Philippine Army engages the community in the Barangays of the town of Isabela, Negros Occ. in a dialog to promote peace and progress in the countryside. (P.A.Lt. R. Canete/PIA6-LOL)

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (inset, right), together with DA-Region 6 Director Larry Nacionales and Judy Araneta Roxas, sing the national anthem during the launch of ‘National Year of Rice’ advocacy campaign, as part of the 6th Farmers’ Day and Capiztahan festival, April 12, 2013, in Roxas City. (Photo by DA Region 6 Info Div.)

Electoral candidates in Cebu (L-R) Hilario Junjun Davide, Agnes Magpale, Ace Durano,Teresita Alegado Adelino Sitoy and Efrain Pelaez during the 2nd round of Mega Cebu Candidates Forum 2013 Second Round at the Cebu Cultural Center, Cebu City. (VVV/PIA CEBU)

Pinasinayaan ang pinaka unang public private partnership (PPP) for public safety sa pagitan ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Batangas, Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp., Shell Phils. Exploration, pamahalaang barangay ng Ambulong at Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) kung saan isang gusali na nagkakahalaga ng P2.5M ang pakikinabangan hindi lamang ng mga residente sa Brgy. Ambulong kundi maging ng mga karatig barangay sa panahon ng sakuna tulad ng sunog. (Photo and caption: Bhaby P. de Castro-PIA Batangas)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Bataan Provincial Director Yay P. Lasam (left) inspects vegetables during the technology demo on organic fertilizer production in Bataan on March 19, 2013. (DTI-PRO)

The province’s outstanding taxpayers, municipal treasurers and assessors and Philippine National Police (PNP) Revenue Generation Task Force of Aklan for 2012 are honored in a simple awarding ceremony at the Augusto B. Legaspi (ABL) Sports Complex. (PIA)

Angelica de Josef (Western Visayas) runs barefoot in the 800M secondary girls. Freshman runner De Josef from Aklan is the recent record holder for the 800M secondary girls with a time of 2:17.2 erasing the 1995 record of 2:18.30 set by NCR runner Dely Condes, during the 2013 Palarong Pambansa at Don Mariano Perdeces Memorial Stadium in Dumaguete City. (Capitol/CD/PIA6 photo)

Christopher Lirazan, (2nd from right), who hails from Brgy. Binicuil, Kabankalan City (Western Visayas ). He is the son of a policeman, a gold medalist in the 100M secondary boys, with a time of 10:84 during the 2013 Palarong Pambansa at Don Mariano Perdeces Memorial Stadium in Dumaguete City. (Capitol/CD/PIA6 photo)

PSInsp Sherlock Gabana, information officer of Antique PNP enjoins the support of the general public in the maintenance of peace and order come May 2013 election during the regular meeting of the Association of Information Officers at Philippine Information Agency-Antique on Thursday. (MLG/PSM/PIA6Antique)

COMELEC Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Romeo Serrano discusses preparations for the upcoming elections during the “Talakayan sa PIA” of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Camarines Norte held April 18, 2013. Others in photos are PIA's Rosalita Manlangit PPCRV Diocesan Coordinator Fr. Edwin Visda, PENRO Elpidio Orata and DILG Provincial Director Edwin Garcia. (PIA Cam. Norte/R5)

In recognition of their accomplishments and invaluable contribution to the city’s fight against crime, the Rotary Club of Parañaque North - R.I. Dist 3830, in partnership with the City Government of Parañaque recently honors three Parañaque PNP personnel with “Outstanding Policemen 12-13 Award.” In photo: RCP North Awards Program Chair and PP Ms. Diana Quiroz; P Henry Tan; Parañaque City Mayor Florencio Bernabe, Jr.; Awardees P/Sr. Insp. Dennis Sirilan; P/SPO1 Herbert Paus; and P/SPO1 Raymundo Gabriel; Rotary Gov. Sue Sta. Maria and PE John Torres. (PARAÑAQUE-PIO/PIA-NCR)

Director Rose Cabrera of OCD (rightmost) welcomes participants during the First Quarter RDRRMC 6 Regular meeting. At the head table are: l-r Engr. Oscar Tabada, OIC PAGASA-Visayas, Dir. Rowen Gelonga of DOST, Dir. Evelyn Macapobre of DSWD, and Dir. Evelyn Trompeta, DILG. (jcm/PIA 6)

Atty. Jufrey Derequito, Municipal Election officer of San Jose discusses guidelines and processes governing the May 13, 2013 Local and National Elections during the regular meeting of the Association of Information Officers at Philippine Information Agency-Antique on Thursday. (MLG/PSM/PIA6Antique)

COMELEC Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Romeo Serrano states preparations for the upcoming elections and voters education during the “Talakayan sa PIA” of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Camarines Norte on April 18, 2013 at the said office hosted by ICM Rosalita Manlangit. (PIA Cam. Norte/R5)

PPCRV Diocesan Coordinator Fr. Edwin Visda cites trainings of volunteers and voters education on April 18, 2013 during the “Talakayan sa PIA” of the Philippine Information Agency of Camarines Norte. From his left are: PENRO Elpidio Orata and DILG Provincial Director Edwin Garcia, and at his right is COMELEC Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Romeo Serrano. (PIA Cam. Norte/R5)

Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas (in white polo barong) flank by the official and staff of the Bureau of Fire Protection 8 during inauguration and blessing of the 6.4 Million worth of the new Calbayog Central Fire Station (inset photo) at the Barangay Capoocan, Calbayog City, March 25. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Vice President and Presidential Adviser on Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Concerns chief Jejomar C. Binay welcomes 30 documented Overseas Filipino Workers from Kuwait. The repatriates arrive on Wednesday (April 24) afternoon via Philippine Airlines flight PR 319. They escaped their employers due to maltreatment and other violations in their contracts. VP Binay instructs the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration to extend the necessary assistance to the repatriates. (OVP MEDIA/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)

ICM Rosalita Manlangit of PIA Camarines Norte introduces the program “Talakayan sa PIA” featuring the May 2013 elections preparations and voters education on April 18, 2013 at the said office. Beside her are the guests: DILG Provincial Director Edwin Garcia, PENRO Elpidio Orata, PPCRV Diocesan Coordinator Fr. Edwin Visda and COMELEC Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Romeo Serrano. (PIA Cam. Norte/R5)

Guests from the Philippine National Police, Commission on Elections and the Central Negros Electric Cooperative represented by PCInsp Rico Santotome Jr., Atty. Revo Sorbito and Cheryl Tortal grace the meeting of the Negros Association of Government Information Officers and Liaisons (NAGIOL) to discuss their preparations for the forthcoming May 13 Mid-term Elections. (EAD-PIA6)

President Benigno S. Aquino III arrives Thursday afternoon at the Terminal 2 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport after attending the annual summit of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Brunei. Asian leaders met earlier in the oil-rich sultanate for talks aimed at building momentum towards groundbreaking economic partnerships and easing tensions over the South China Sea. (Photo by Jerome Carlo Paunan/PIA-NCR)

Calbayog City Mayor Ronaldo Aquino delivers his message during inauguration and blessing of the new Calbayog Central Fire Station held at the Barangay Capoocan Calbayog City, April 25. Others in photo are (l-r) Fire Inspector Romeo Jaca, Department of Interior and Local government secretary Mar Roxas, 1st district of Samar Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento and BFP-8 regional director SSUPT Pablito Coredata. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

PIA Region 3 OIC-Regional Director William L. Beltran discusses the agency's new programs and services highlighting "Kapihan ng Mamamayan," on April 24 at Katimawan Hall of Pampanga Provincial Office, City of San Fernando, Pampanga. This is an improved version of PIA Central Luzon's "Kapihan"

Association of Government Information Officers of Central Luzon (AGIO-CL) holds its Annual General Assembly and Election of New Sets of Officers with the theme "Inspiring and Empowering Communities through Timely and Relevant Information" at Katimawan Hall of Pampanga Provincial Office, City of San Fernando, Pampanga headed by its President, Nigel Arellano from the Bureau of Jail and Management Penology. (Photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut/PIA3)

The Good Karma Productions, Muni Productions and Ministry of Mushrooms, Inc. kick off the Mindanao Summer Peace Fest 2013 (SPF13), a week-long collaborative peace festival which first sow its seeds in Northern and Western Mindanao, through a Press Conference at Stargate Dream Vacation Resort in Upper Macasandig here. (RTPaculba)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Bataan Provincial Director Yay Lasam (second from left) joins culinary expert Heny Sison who lead the ribbon cutting ceremony during the “Galing Bataan” Trade Fair opening at the Bulwagan ng Bayan, Balanga City. Also in the photo are Vicky Garcia, Abucay Mayor Ana Santiago, Pilar Mayor Charlie Pizzaro with his wife Alice Dizon Pizarro and Samal Mayor Gene Malibiran dela Fuente. (DTI-PRO)

Police Chief Inspector Pedro H. Enriquez poses with SK Provincial Federation President Bob Clyde Legaspi (left), Franklin Quimpo of the Office of the Provincial Governor and Provincial Treasurer Suzette Pioquid (extreme right) during the Awarding Ceremonies of Outstanding Taxpayers, Municipal Treasurers and Assessors and PNP officials and personnel to acknowledge their contribution to the province' effective collection. (PIA/VGVillanueva)

Department of Trade and Industry Secretary and PEZA Board Chairman Gregory L. Domingo (right) chats with the executives of manufacturing companies located inside economic zones under the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA). In the photo (L-R): Iriko Minoru, Toshiba Information; Francisco Ferrer, PEZA representative for Investors/Business and PEZA Director General Lilia de Lima. (DTI-PRO)

Rockhopper TV based in the United Kingdom interviews Saint Bernard Mayor Rico Rentuza for his accomplishments in championing the Disaster Risk Reduction practices in his town. Saint Bernard is one of the nominees for the Sasakawa Award 2013 of the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction. (rgc/jane/PIA8-SoLeyte)

This rural kid from remote Barangay Barruz, Matuginao savors arroz caldo brought by the Samar PSWDO as part of the peace and development caravan initiated by Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) and supported by Samar LGU with the police, army, DILG, PCA, DTI, DAR, TESDA, PIA, DENR, DPWH, Samar Provincial Engineering, Agriculture, DOH and the Samar Provincial Hospital, PhilHealth and DepEd on April 23, 2013. (PIA 8-Samar)

The Dental Van of the 546 Engineer Battalion, Philippine Army, reaches remote Barangay Barruz in Matuginao town and offers dental services to some 100 rural folks. LtCol Edgar Yerro of the Engineer Brigade is instrumental in bringing the van as far as Matuginao town. Some dentists from the Samar Provincial Hospital and and the PNP joined the medical–dental reach out on April 23, 2013. (PIA 8-Samar)

Jil Iron Tabuena and Kent Dormido, gold and silver medallists in elementary boys' discus throw with their coaches Prudencio Daguro and Arthur Labaco. (CAPITOL NEWS/PIA6-LOL)

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (3rd from left) joins swine industry leaders as they partake of a 'lechon' during the 22nd Hog Convention and Trade Exhibits, April 18, 2013, at Manila Jockey Club, in Carmona, Cavite. He says the Department of Agriculture will continuously provide needed interventions and implement policies that will make the country’s hog industry globally competitive, thus ensuring its continues growth. Joining him (from left) are: ProPork president Edwin Chen; Bayan Muna Rep. Teddy Casiño; NFHFI chair Daniel Javellana; AGAP party-list Rep. Nicanor Briones; George Espiritu, president of Cavite livestock, poultry and feedmillers association, Inc.; and ProPork vice president Chester Warren Tan. (Photo by Jose Lucas, DA Information Service)

Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo with Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya check the construction materials listed under mandatory certification of Bureau of Product Standards which should bear the Philippine Standard (PS) or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) marks to ensure that materials comply with the standards. (DTI-PRO)

Mannequins on display at the Piña and Fiber Festival venue wear dresses and gowns fashioned from Aklan's indigenous fibers - piña and abaca. The Piña and Fiber Festival in Aklan, now on its 14th year, is one of the major attractions of the Aklan Day Celebration. The activity also showcases other Aklan products like gifts and housewares, furnishings, processed foods and health and wellness products from April 22-30, 2013. (PIA/VGVillanueva)

University of St. La Salle students and Provincial Environment Management Office staff plant some 200 propagules/mangroves at the coastal barangay of Tibsoc in San Enrique town in celebration of the 2013 Earth Day, April 22. (EAD-PIA6/PEMO photo)

Hugod Aklanon Producers Association Incorporated Officers, prime movers of the 14th Piña and Fiber Festival along with the Department of Trade and Industry,flank Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez after handing him a plaque of appreciation for his all-out support to the project, now on its 14th year, showcasing Aklan's products made of indigenous piña and abaca fibers, crafts, furniture and processed foods. (PIA/VGVillanueva)

Kids perform running exercises at the summer sports clinic at the Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center in Tagum City. (Noel Baguio- DavNor PIO)

President Benigno S. Aquino III addresses the crowd in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental on Monday, citing the administrations gains in social services, education and economy. (JCValcorza, PIA 10)

Department of Education and Smart Communications, Inc. partner for the 2013 Palarong Pambansa. Signing of the MOA between (from left to right) Smart Sports Consultant Patrick Gregorio, Smart Sports Manager Epok Quimpo and Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC. (DepEdComm)

World Vision in partnership with Legal Network for Truthful Elections and Christian Convergence for Good Governance conducts a Voters' Education for Good Governance training with the theme, "Hatid ng Boto ko, Pagbabago" with the aim to make the participants understand the importance of voting, especially in line with the Christian context and understand the campaign and election process in the Philippines on March 18-19 at Marco Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. (RTPaculba, PIA 10)

Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario hands certificates to Lumads who completed the Indigenous People-Basic Literacy Program (IP-BIP) during the completion exercises at the Bulwagan ng Lalawigan. (Noel Baguio - DavNor Info Division)

Governor Rodolfo del Rosario affirms the continued support of the province to the Indigenous People-Basic Literacy Program, which upholds the Lumads' aspiration for further learning and meaningful participation in society. (Noel Baguio - DavNor Info Division)

Ryan Tampus, Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) Project officer for Mindanao, checks the participants' exercise on making an affidavit for complaints and other concerns that might occur during the election, done during the Voters' Education for Good Governance training with the theme, "Hatid ng Boto ko, Pagbabago" on March 18-19 at Marco Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. (RTPaculba, PIA10)

The Lumads who completed the Indigenous People-Basic Literacy Program (IP-BIP). Taken during completion exercises at the Bulwagan ng Lalawigan. (Noel Baguio - DavNor Info Division)

DENR 9 Regional Executive Director Arleigh Adorable delivers his message during the opening of bids for the 2013 Cadastral Survey project covering 11 towns in the region held at the DENR Regional Office conference room recently. (PIA)

Small kids learn the fundamentals of football during the summer sports camp at the Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center in Tagum City. (Noel Baguio-DavNor Info Division)

Balingasag, Misamis Oriental Mayor Alexis Quina delivers the welcome message during President Aquino’s visit in the town on April 22. (JCValcorza, PIA 10)

Regional Technical Director and chairman of the Bids and Awards Committee Moises Butic presides the opening of bids for the 2013 Cadastral Survey project of the 11 municipalities in Zamboanga Peninsula region. (PIA)

Misamis Oriental Vice Governor Norris Babiera highlights in his talk, during President Aquino’s visit in Balingasag on Monday, April 22, efforts on health and innovations on peace & development, which won the province two Galing Pook Awards. (JCValcorza, PIA 10)

Local cycling team 7-Eleven is the best finisher among the five Philippine teams that join the Le Tour de Pilipinas 2013. It emerges 1st runner up in the overall team competition, second only to TPC (Tabriz Petrochemical) team of Iran. 10 foreign and 5 local teams join in this year’s Le Tour De Pilipinas. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

SITEL Human Resource Manager Tyron Somera gives job application and recruitment tips to technical-vocational graduates in Baguio Benguet during the DOLE-TESDA led Job Skills Matching and Career Forum at the Baguio City School of Arts and Trade. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Iranians Ghader Mizbani and Amir Kolahdoz of TPC (Tabriz Petrochemical) team emerge as overall winner and 1st runner up, respectively, in the Le Tour de Pilipinas 2013 which ended at the Lake Drive of Burnham Park, Tuesday. Thomas Rabou of Singapore Cycling team come in third. The TPC is also crowned as team champ followed by local team 7-eleven. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo (middle) expresses the Philippines’ interest to strengthen economic ties with the People’s Republic of China and urges Chinese investors to put more money in the Philippines during the 1st Philippine-China Trade and Investment Council meeting. (DTI)

President Aquino drew cheers and laughter while sharing a light moment with the crowd in his visit on April 22 at the Jose Pelaez-Roa Park in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental. (PIA 10)

President Benigno S. Aquino III says that the government will continue the Pantawid Pamilya Pilipino Program (4Ps) and health services, especially to the residents in Cagayan de Oro Cit,y during his visit on April 22. (Rodolfo Mendoza, PIA10)

President Aquino visits Cagayan de Oro City and declares numerous projects that are implemented in the city which helps in attaining economic boost, especially the construction of the Laguindingan International Airport at the Pelaez Sports Complex on April 22, 2013. (RTPaculba)

The crowd at the Cebu Provincial Capitol estimated at 15,000 waiting for the arrival of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III on April 19. PNoy was in Cebu to lead events in Bogo, Toledo, Lapu-Lapu, and Cebu City. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario speaks with Brando Velasquez of the Cebu City Sports Commission and former Asst. Manager of the city sports complex pertaining to the features of the complex. The province is also in the process of completing the renovation of its multi-million gymnasium. (DavNor Info Division)

Samar Provincial Engineer Divine Mate, her assistant Ishar Ignacio confer with Imelda Bonifacio, Pamana Samar Manager and the construction firm engineer on the progress of a P14 M Pamana road project from Barangay Lokilokon in Paranas all the way to San Jose de Buan on April 16. The road will connect Buan to the rest of Samar towns. (PIA 8-Samar with OPAPP)

The Regional Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee 10 (RLECC-10) meeting, on Wednesday, presided by Land Transportation Office (LTO) Director Hilarion E. Ulep (center), current vice chair, tackles on prevailing traffics concerns, anti carnapping, crime against public morals and tax evasion and currency violations. Seated beside Ulep are the DILG regional Director Rene K. Burdoes (extreme left) and P/SSupt. David Y. Ombao, deputy regional director for Operation. (PIA-10)

Davao Oriental Gov. Corazon Malanyaon meets with team of expert agronomists and agri-business specialists from Indo Foods under the Salim Group of Companies—the largest conglomerate in Indonesia at the Provincial Capitol. (PIO Davao Oriental)

DOLE-Cordillera Regional Director Henry John Jalbuena assures tech-voc graduates that helping them in their employment is now among the key thrusts of the department. DOLE, in partnership with TESDA –CAR conducted a career guidance and employment coaching forum for Baguio-Benguet tech-voc graduates at the Baguio City School of Arts and Trade on April 18. A pre-registration for the May 1 Labor Day Jobs Fair was also facilitated by DOLE. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario leads the benchmarking activity with Provincial Government executives. It aims to establish and sustain the smooth operation of the P243-million DavNor Sports and Cultural Center and ultimately, realize the goal of becoming the country's sports capital. (DavNor Info Division)

Kids proudly show their completion certificates after spending 10 days of fun workshops in the 5th edition of the EarthFest convened by the City Government of Tagum and the City of Tagum Tourism Council. The said workshop gathers children all across the city for 10 days from April 8-21, 2013 where they were taught on visual arts and dance arts. (Photo by Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum)

The Philippine Palm Oil Development Council, Inc. (PPDCI) held its 8th National Palm Oil Congress on April 18-19 with the theme "Utilizing Unproductive Lands and Promoting Economic Stability through Investments in the Palm Oil Industry." Robertino E. Pizarro (center-middle), president of PPDCI said palm oil is a tool to promote high farm productivity, generate employment opportunities and overcome poverty just like the success it brought to Malaysia and Indonesia. (PIA-10)

President Benigno S. Aquino III lowering the time capsule in Brgy. Ibo, Lapu-lapu City, marking the groundbreaking ceremony for the widening of the Mactan Island Circumferential Road project costing around P3.7 billion. PNoy is assisted by DILG Secretary Mar Roxas (left) and DPWH Undersecretary Romeo Momo (2nd from right). (VVV/PIA Cebu)

PNoy entertains questions from Cebu and national media during the media interaction held inside the barangay hall of Brgy. Ibo, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on April 19. The President earlier led the lowering of the time capsule that marked the groundbreaking of the widening of Mactan Island Circumferential Road project. (VVV/PIA CEBU)

President Benigno S. Aquino III giving an inspirational message during the groundbreaking of the widening of the Mactan Island Circumferential road project in Lapu-lapu City, Cebu on April 19. Photo also shows (from R-L, seated): DPWH Usec. Romeo Momo, Energy Sec. Jericho Petilla, and DILG Sec. Mar Roxas. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

President Benigno S. Aquino III is met by key local government officials upon his arrival in Barangay Ibo, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu at around 10:30 am on April 19 for the groundbreaking of the widening of the Mactan Island Circumferential Road. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario gestures as he hails the participants for choosing to learn sports this summer vacation, at the opening of the summer sports camp at the Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center in Tagum City. (Noel Baguio - DavNor PIO)

The participating children of the 5th edition of Tagum City’s EarthFest exhibit their best in dancing during their highly-anticipated recital last April 21, 2013 at the Gaisano Grand Mall of Tagum. (Photo by Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum)

Children accompany their parents in the Visual Arts Exhibition of the 5th Earthfest in Tagum City. (Photo by Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum)

City of Tagum Tourism Council Chairperson Alma Uy joins proud parents in watching the dance recital of the participating children of the 5th EarthFest in Tagum City at Gaisano Grand Mall last April 21, 2013. (Photo by Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum)

Rural folks savor the beginning construction of the P14 M Payapa ta Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) project aimed to make the roads concrete for San Jose de Buan folks and all other barangays of Motiong and Paranas towns located in the road to San Jose de Buan, the road project is a dream come true for this remote town located some 34 kilometers away from the national highway. (PIA8-Samar/OPAPP)

(From left) Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario, Department of Education Region XI Director Gloria Benigno, Pedro San Jose, and Vice Governor Victorio Suaybaguio Jr. lead the Region XI delegation during the opening parade of the Palarong Pambansa 2015. (Photo by Grace Apuya)

Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office (NOPPO)-OIC Director PSSupt. Ricardo De La Paz and 303rd Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Jon Aying (1st and 2nd from right) with NOPPO Deputy Director PSupt. Antonietto Cañete answer queries from the media during the 1st Provincial Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC) press conference at the NOPPO Conference Room. (EAD-PIA6 photo)

(from left, seated) PARO Henry Taladua of Misamis Occidental, CARPO Arsenio Ladera representing PARO Zoraida Macadindang of Misamis Oriental, MOSCAT Pres. Rosalito Quirino, Ph. D, Rhoda Gadrinab also of MOSCAT, PARO Ibrahim Marmay of Lanao del Norte and PARO Julio Celestiano Jr. of North Bukidnon with other key DAR officials from the regional and provincial offices witnessed the signing of MOA for ARCCESS in Region 10. (Editha Salvador, DAR 10)

The 2-day City Government-sponsored “4th Job Fair sa Cagayan de Oro” kicked off on April 18, with City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano and Councilor Nadia Emano-Elipe cutting the ribbon, to formally open the event @ the City Hall Grounds, where a total of 132 employers (local & overseas) and more than 30,000 jobs await the jobseekers. (CDO CIO)

Cebu media attending the press briefing conducted by PIA-7 for the visit of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III in Cebu on April 19. PIA-7 Ass't Regional Director Fayette Rinen (lower right) said the President is expected to grace several engagements in Cebu province, begining with the groundbreaking of the P3.7-B road widening project of the Mactan Island Circumferential Road in Lapu-Lapu City. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Applicants get evaluated prior to facing the employers who will then interview them for possible hiring. A total of 30,000 jobs are up for grabs for qualified jobseekers with 132 employers (both local and overseas) hold their 2-day office at the City Tourism Hall. (CDO CIO)

PIA-7 Ass't Regional Director Fayette Rinen (center, in yellow) briefing the Cebu media on the visit of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III in Cebu on April 19. The President is expected to lead the groundbreaking of the P3.7-B road widening project of the Mactan Island Circumferential Road in Lapu-Lapu City. He is also expected to visit Bogo City, Toledo City, and Cebu Capitol grounds in Cebu City. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Lino Lluisma (1st person from left), in-charge of the airport tower, answers the question of media on the development of Laguindingan Airport opening. In photo with Lluisma (L-R) are Dir. Moh-Naga S. Rascal, Regional Manager of CAAP-10, Atty. Maria Dulce C. Banzon of COMELEC and Engr. Cecilio Y. Clarete in today's RDC media update. (Francis Jane M. Lumacang, PIA-10)

President Benigno S. Aquino III officiates the groundbreaking ceremony of the road improvement and upgrading from junction of Barangay Cogon to OISCA Park (Japanese Park), Diwan, Dipolog City. With him, Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn T. Uy (left) and DPWH Undersecretary Romeo S. Momo. (Mary May A. Abellon, PIA9- Zambo Norte)

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Dinky Soliman and CNN hero Edwin Peñaflorida together with the out-of-school children show their paint-covered hands to signify their joint commitment to the "Kariton Klasrum," an alternative delivery mode of education aimed to reach families and out-of-school children who are beneficiaries of the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer (MCCT), an offshoot of the government's Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. (EPC/PIA-NCR)

(L-R) Asian Development Bank Officer Sohail Hasnie, Department of Energy Undersecretary Loreta Ayson and DOE Energy Utilization Management Bureau Director Evelyn Reyes formally open on Monday the "Name This E-Trike" contest, which would give a P30,000 cash prize to the chosen entry. To join, simply visit SM San Lazaro in Manila and SM Center in Pasig City at look for the DOE booth. Contest runs until April 26. (Photo by Jerome Carlo Paunan)

DAR-10 Regional Director Felix Aguhob turns over a combine rice harvester to a representative of Mamanga Daku ARC Coop from Plaridel, Misamis Occidental. Witnessing the event are Asst. RD Nicky Peralta (right) and DAR-Misamis Occidental personnel lead by CARPO Cesar Egos (left). (Editha Salvador/DAR-10)

Guimaras Governor Felipe Hilan Nava (2nd from left) leads the groundbreaking and capsule laying ceremonies for the Guimaras runway and PhilSCA Flying School at Mclain Buenavista, Guimaras, April 17, 2013. Assisting him are PhilSCA President Dr. Bernard Ramirez and CAAP CIS Division Chief Leo Husada. (LAF/PIA6)

Stakeholders' consultation on the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of RA 10361, otherwise known as "Domestic Workers Law" or "Batas Kasambahay" held on Monday, April 15, 2013 at Chandler Suites, Pagadian City. (PIA)

CAAP Civil Security Intelligence Division Chief Leo Husada delivers the message of CAAP Director General MGEN. William Hotchkiss during the groundbreaking of the Guimaras runway and PhilSCA Flying School at Mclain, Buenavista, Guimaras, April 17, 2013. Listening are PhilSCA President Bernard Ramirez and Governor Felipe Hilan Nava. (LAF/PIA6)

(left photo) Maternal and Young Child Nutrition Security Initiative in Asia Annemarie Hoogendorn, Nutrition Specialist commissioned by UNICEF and Dr. Anthony Redaniel, MYCNSIA Regional Coordinator (L-R) listen to the presentation of Engr. Alma Marfil (right photo) of the Municipal Nutrition Committee in Sibalom citing some gains and challenges in the implementation of health and nutrition programs of said Municipality during the Midterm Review of MYCNSIA program held on Wednesday at the Municipal Conference Room. (MLG/PSM -PIA6 Antique)

Focusing on the topic “Active Citizenship” during the series of Family Development Sessions (FDS), PIA Information Officer Rizalie A. Calibo, also a member of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement (CCRM), started her talk with brief discussions on the “Life and Dignity of a Human Person, “Call to family, Community and Participation,” "Rights and Responsibilities” as active citizens, and ended up giving voters education to Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries of Enrique Villanueva and Larena towns in Siquijor. (RAC/PIA-Siquijor)

DILG Undersecretary Mar Roxas introduces the President during the groundbreaking ceremony of the road improvement and upgrading from junction of Brgy. Cogon to OISCA Park (Japanese Park) and Sungkilaw Falls of Brgy. Diwan in Dipolog City. (Mary May A. Abellon, PIA9- Zambo Norte)

"Walang duda na ang groundbreaking na ito ay sagisag sa positibong pagbabagong nararanasan ng ating bansa," [Doubtless to say, this groundbreaking is a symbol of positive changes of our nation.] said President Aquino in his speech during the groundbreaking ceremony of road project in Dipolog. (Mary May A. Abellon, PIA9- Zambo Norte)

Out-of-school children stamp their handprint during the ceremonial launching of the"Kariton Klasrum" - an alternative mode of education. Kariton Klasrum is a project of the Department of Education in coperation with the Department of Social Welfare & Development and the Dynamic Teen Company under the leadership of Efren Penaflorida. (EPC-PIA/NCR)

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro explains today the benefits of "Kariton Klasrum" to out-of-school children at the Philippine Sports Complex (Ultra). Luistro said Kariton Klasrum aims to reach families and out-of-school children who are beneficiaries of the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer (MCCT), an offshoot of the government's Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. (EPC/PIA-NCR)

Atty. Verna Kate Santos, med arbiter, MALSU, DOLE 9 discusses the salient provisions of RA 10361 or Batas Kasambahay during a stakeholders' consultation held on April 15 at Chandler Suites, Pagadian City. (PIA)

The Automated Guided Transit (AGT), an elevated train capable of transporting up to 60 passengers from station to station, have its test run on April 15. President Aquino, representatives from DOST and UP, and members of the media are present in the said event and were all given a chance to ride the AGT. (PIA)

In her campaign visit to Isabela, Senator Loren Legarda crosses the Pinacanuan River onboard a makeshift roro to visit communities in Bgy. Minanga in the Municipality of San Mariano, Isabela. (PIA)

Lourdes B. Amores, DOLE-Zamboanga del Sur chief in her welcome message during the stakeholders' consultation on RA 10361 otherwise known as Batas Kasambahay held on April 15 at Chandler Suites, Pagadian City. (PIA)

Career Executive Service Board Deputy Executive Director Atty. Arturo Lachica delivers his message during the Career Executive Service CiRCLE Forum held at the PNP-8 Matapat Hall, Camp Kangleon Palo Leyte, April 16. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Dr. Juana M. Dela Rama (right), vice president for Students Affair of Mindanao University of Science and Technology (MUST) explains to Pantawid Pamilya Civil Society Organizations focal Cherrylou Acobo, the academic formation of Pantawid Pamilya scholars under Students Grant-Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation. (Photo by Oliver Badel Inodeo, Pantaiwd Pamilya Information Officer)

Philippine Information Agency 8 Regional Director Olive Tiu presents the rationale of the Region Eight Administrator League (REAL) 10 MOVES (Mobilizing the Organization for Voluntary Endeavor in the Society) project which aims to build homes for homeless families and classrooms for school children for Gawad Kalinga (GK) recipients during Career Executive Service CiRCLE Forum held at the PNP-8 Matapat Hall, Camp Kangleon, Palo Leyte, April 16. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Philippine Information Agency 8 Regional Director Olive P. Tiu (3rd from left) and Region Eight Administrator League (REAL) President Imelda Laceras (4th) lead the launching of the REAL’s 10 Moves Project which aims to build GK homes for homeless families and classrooms for schoolchildren during Career Executive Service CiRCLE Forum held at the PNP-8 Matapat Hall, Camp Kangleon, Palo Leyte, April 16. Also in photo are (l-r) Department of Agrarian Reform director Eleasm Castillo, Police Regional Office 8 PC/Supt. Elmer R. Soria, National Telecommunication Commission Director Samuel Young and National Irrigation Administration Mananger Romy Quiza. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Dinky Soliman stamp their handprint today at the Philippine Sports Complex (Ultra) to signify their commitment to the "Kariton Klasrum," an alternative delivery mode of education in partnership with CNN hero Edwin Peñaflorida's Dynamic Teen Company (DTC). (EPC/PIA-NCR)

Region Eight Administrator League, Inc. (REAL) President Imelda Laceras hands over a plaque of recognition to (Ret.) Director Leo Rama of PopCom for his invaluable service as REAL president for three terms (CY 1980-1983, 1986-1988 & 1992-1996) and his unselfish dedication and untiring support to the programs and projects of REAL which contributed immensely to the success and realization of the organization’s goals and objective, during the REAL Board Meeting and Fellowship held at the PNP-8 Matapat Hall, Palo Leyte. Other REAL officers in photo are (l-r) Engr. Delos Reyes, NIA Mgr. Romy Quiza, DAR Dir. Eleasem Castillo, PIA Dir. Olive Tiu, NTC Dir. Samuel Young, PRO-8 Dir. Elmer Soria, PMS Dir. Evelyn Clarin and Director Renato Solidum of PhiVolcs, April 16. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Dr. Francisco Duque III (left photo), chairperson of the Civil Service Commission, advises the graduates of Pangasinan State University to have passion in whatever career they intend to pursue. Duque serves as the commencement speaker to the first batch of graduates from the campuses of Asingan, Bayambang, San Carlos City, Sta. Maria and Urdaneta City during the 34th Commencement Exercises of PSU held at the CSI Stadia, Lucao District, Dagupan City on April 1. (Photo by April Montes)

Luisita “Luchi” Cruz-Valdez (second from left), head of the news and public affairs department of TV 5, is conferred with Doctor of Humanities (Honoris Causa) degree by the university officials of Pangasinan State University (PSU) for her invaluable contributions in the field of broadcast journalism. Valdez served as the commencement speaker to the second batch of graduates from the campuses of Binmaley, Infanta and Lingayen during the 34th Commencement Exercises of PSU held at the CSI Stadia, Lucao District, Dagupan City on April 1. (Photo by April Montes)

OIC-Director Lucia Beltran (speaking) of the Chapter Development and Finance of the National Red Cross Officer emphasizes the importance of volunteerism as a legitimate way in which citizens can participate in the activities of their community to contribute to social change. Beltran is the guest speaker during the 5th Biennial Chapter Assembly with the theme: "Excellence in Leadership for Efficient PRC Service Delivery" held at the Hotel Ariana, Paringao, Bauang, La Union on April 5. (Caption by: Danny T. Role/Photo by Vic Villanueva,Jr. PIA-1)

PIA 6 Director Janet C. Mesa (Right) urges the electorates in Antique to exercise their right of suffrage by participating intelligently in the mid-term elections on May 13, over DYKA during PIA-Antique Infocen’s PIA News Service Weekly Radio Program hosted by Infocen Manager Margie L. Gadian. Director Mesa also urged public’s support for the conduct of orderly and peaceful elections. (T.Villavert/PIA 6)

Reelectionist Senator Loren Legarda shares her platform and legislative priorities during the Team PNoy Press Conference on Tuesday, April 16, 2013. Among Legarda’s priorities are: PhilHealth coverage for the 25 million poorest Filipinos, one college graduate for every poor family through the Pantawid Tuition Program and the implementation of the Expanded Senior Citizens Act. (PIA)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Gregory L. Domingo delivers his keynote speech during the opening of the CAPIZtahan Trade Fair 2013 at the Capiz Provincial Park in Roxas City on April 13, 2012. The fair is one of the highlights of the CAPIZtahan Festival, an annual celebration of the anniversary of Capiz as a civil government. This year marks its 112th anniversary. (DTI-PRO)

(L-R) DOH-7 RESU Head RN Renan Cimafranca, Asst. Sec. of Health Dr. Pauly Jean Rossel Ubial, DOH-7 Regional Director Dr. Asuncion Anden, Emerging and Re-Emerging Diseases Program Coordinator Dr. Joanri Riveral are the guests during the 2nd round of Kapihan sa PIA forum held at the conference hall of the Department of Health Region-7. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

COMELEC 8 Acting Regional Director Veronico Petalcoren (right) briefs media regarding the commission’s preparations for the May 13 mid-year elections during the Harampang ha PIA as Regional Director Olive Tiu (left) listens. (Vino R. Cuayzon/PIA8)

(L-R) Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn T. Uy (with shovel); DILG Sec. Mar Roxas; Barangay Chairman of Cogon; Barangay Chairman of Diwan; President Benigno S. Aquino III; DPWH Undersecretary Romeo S. Momo during the groundbreaking of the P385-million road project in Cogon, Dipolog City. (Mary May A. Abellon, PIA9- Zambo Norte)

Atty. Maria Dulce C. Banzon talks about the preparations of Commission on Elections as she shows statistical records, number of Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machines and other relevant updates for May 13, 2013 National and Local Elections at the RDC Main Conference Room, RDC/Neda – X Bldg, April 18. (Francis Jane M. Lumacang, PIA-10)

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Dinky Soliman explains today the department's "4K" commitment to the "Kariton Klasrum," an alternative delivery mode of education in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and CNN hero Edwin Peñaflorida's Dynamic Teen Company (DTC). Soliman said DSWD's 4K includes "Kalinisan, Kalusugan, Kabuhayan at Katahimikan." (EPC-PIA NCR)

PSSupt Angelito D. Dumangeng (middle), ROPD chief of the PNP in Ilocos assures that the whole police force are prepared for the coming election noting that they are seeking support from the Armed Forces of the Philippines for possible augmentation of manpower to be deployed in the priority areas of concern in the region to ensure a safe and fair election. Dumangeng is a guest during the Kapihan sa Ilocos program held at the PIA Regional Office 1 in San Fernando City. Other guests are Engr. Josie Oamar of DPWH (leftmost) and PSupt. Rolie Saltat (rightmost), acting chief of the RPCRD of PRO1. (JCR/MHH/Photo by: VVillanueva)

Dr. Nick Gordo (with mic) of the Department of Health in the Cordillera, in a kapihan forum, warns the public to be wary of the summer heat as aside from skin diseases, too much exposure to the sun is a risk factor of getting a stroke, especially to people with heart ailment and other severe medical condition. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Members of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council of Atok in Benguet province perform mock rescue on a vehicular accident along the highest point of Philippine Highway system in Sayangan, Atok which is an accident prone area, to prepare the responders in attending victims properly and safely. (Joseph B Zambrano/PIA CAR)

Emerging and Re-Emerging Diseases Program Coordinator Dr. Joanri Riveral (w/mic) talks about the water-borne diseases, especially this summer and further stresses that heat stroke is also threat to the lives of everybody, especially the kids and old alike during the Kapihan sa PIA forum held at the conference hall of the Department of Health Region-7. Other guests are: DOH-7 RESU Head RN Renan Cimafranca (left), Water Engineer Arnel Prescillas (3rd form left) and Engineer John Patrick Comahig (right). (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Sangguniang Panlalawigan chair on Agriculture Arturo Pacatang commends the agricultural office for bringing development to Siquijor province particularly enhancing the lives of the small farmers. (RAC/PIA-Siquijor)

Water Engineer Arnel Prescillas (w/mic) talks about the Automated Tubig Machines (ATMs) and says that ATMs do not guaranty the quality of the water and the safety of the drinking public during the Kapihan sa PIA forum held at the conference hall of the Department of Health Region-7. Other guests (l-r) DOH-7 RESU Head RN Renan Cimafranca, Emerging and Re-Emerging Diseases Program Coordinator Dr. Joanri Riveral and Engineer John Patrick Comahig. The forum was moderated by Cebu Infocen Manager Rachelle M. Nessia and Wen Celen of Radyo ng Bayan (extreme right). (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista (left) with outgoing Philippine Military Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Irineo Espino (center) and incoming PMA Superintendent VAdm. Edgar Abogado at the PMA Fort Del Pilar following the military honors for the guests on Thursday. Bautista was the guest and presiding officer during the turnover of command ceremony of the PMA Superintendent. (Redjie Cawis- PIA CAR)

Representatives from government agencies in Negros Oriental attend the three-day Contingency Planning and Incident Command System Workshop for the high-density gathering in Palarong Pambansa, conducted by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) from April 10-12, 2013. (LPP/PIA-7 NegOr)

Farmers from all six towns in Siquijor province reciting the rice pledge that opens the launching of National Year of Rice in Lazi, Siquijor. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Iriga City’s Ezer Foundation Performing Arts (EFPA), composed of abandoned children nurtured by Founder Bishop Roseller Orolfo, performs a free concert in Motiong town, Samar recently to entice young Samarnons to pursue a life of Music. (PIA 8- Samar Avha Hilario)

Iriga City’s Ezer Foundation Performing Arts (EFPA), composed of abandoned children nurtured by Founder Bishop Roseller Orolfo, performs a free concert in Motiong town, Samar recently. It also performed on April 17 at the Paranas covered court, Paranas, Samar and will perform today, April 18 at the Catbalogan City Plaza, Catbalogan City. (PIA 8- Samar Avha Hilario)

Rep. Orlando A. Fua of the lone district of Siquijor speaking before the hundreds of farmer cooperators attending the 2013 National Year of Rice launching cum Farmers’ Field Day and Rice Technology Demo at Tigbawan, Lazi, Siquijor. (RAC/PIA-Siquijor)

Tacloban City Comelec together with the Department of Public Work and Highways and the PNP conducts Operation Baklas Wednesday, April 17, to remove illegal and offensive campaign materials. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Gracel D. Lano (top photo), Public Information officer III of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Mimaropa gives lecture on Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 to Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA) of barangay Sto. Niño. Drivers (photo below) examine samples of laminated marijuana leaves for them to become aware and support the agency’s program dubbed as "Ako, Responsableng Driver Ayaw Sa Droga." (Photo & Text by: Mark C. Maliksi/PIA-Calapan City)

ICM Luis T. Cueto of the Philippine Information Agency witnesses a tricycle driver in Barangay Sto. Niño as he attaches the adhesive sticker on his tricycle. The sticker in his tricycle is his way of support to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency’s slogan: Ako, Responsableng Driver Ayaw Sa Droga. (Photo & Text by: Mark C. Maliksi/PIA-Calapan City)

OIC-Provincial Information Officer Romulo Tagalo (standing) assures the thrust of the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte in helping mothers earn extra income for their families, through livelihood training and seed money. (Noel Baguio, PIO DavNOr)

More than 600 volunteers extend help in building the first shelters intended for typhoon victims in Cateel. During their five-day stay, the volunteers composed of 14 teams managed to complete 35 houses out of the 100 housing units provided by the Gawad Kalinga. The said housing project is still ongoing which is hoped to be completed and awarded very soon to identified beneficiaries. (By Karen Lou Deloso,/ Photos by Lester Berganio)

Election Officer Iper Doot measures the posters of candidates at a common poster area during Operation Baklas at the far-flung barangay of Kipalili, San Isidro, Davao del Norte. Doot found the candidates followed the authorized measurements of their posters. (Noel Baguio, PIO DavNor)

Davao Oriental Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon leads the ribbon cutting ceremony of the newly constructed halfway house for rebel returnees in Davao Oriental. The facility is funded by OPAPP through its PAMANA program. (PIO DavOr Karen Lou Deluso)

The Local Government Unit of the Island Garden City of Samal donates three Self Contain Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) to the local unit of Bureau of Fire Protection. City Mayor Aniano P. Antalan led the turnover of the equipment together with other local officials and BFP representatives. (PIA)

Major General Jorge Segovia hands over the plaque of leadership to Davao Oriental Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon during the Area Clearing Completion Ceremony at the Honey’s Hotel in the City of Mati, recently. (PIO Davao Oriental)

Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon tours the newly constructed halfway house together with DILG XI RD Francisco C. Jose, PAMANA Program Manager Oliver Binancilan, Lt.Col Reynaldo Guerrero, DILG Provincial Director Yvette T. Sunga, Major General Ariel Bernardo and Major General Jorge Segovia. (PIO Davao Oriental)

A "Typhoon Pablo After Action Review" is conducted in Comval on April 8 to elicit learning which the Government of the Philippines (GoP), humanitarian agencies and civil society can adopt and apply to further enhance disaster preparedness for future disaster response operations. (A. Dayao IDS Comval)

Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario checks out souvenir items on display at the new Produkto DavNor Pasalubong Center in New Corella, Davao del Norte. (Noel Baguio-PIO DavNor)

DOH-7 RESU Head RN Renan Cimafranca (w/mic) warns the public to avoid contracting cholera and typhoid fever, at the Kapihan sa PIA forum held at the conference hall of the Department of Health Region-7. Other guests (r-l) Engineer John Patrick Comahig and Water Engineer Arnel Prescillas. The forum was moderated by Cebu Infocen Manager Rachelle M. Nessia and Wen Celen of Radyo ng Bayan (extreme right). (VVV/PIA Cebu)

To send a signal that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is very serious in implementing the proper common poster area to city candidates, with the Philippine National Police and the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Comelec removed illegally placed posters around the city of Catbalogan today. (PIA)

Board of Investments 2013 IPP consultation in Davao City was held recently, led by DTI Undersecretary Merly M. Cruz, attended by members of various chambers of commerce, the academe, the LGU’s, the members of the inter-agency committees, NGO’s and the consumers. Also in the photo is BOI Investment Services Group Executive Director Raul V. Angeles. (DTI-PRO)

Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries attend the Family development Session (FDS) at Sabang, Larena, Siquijor where the PIA-Siquijor in cooperation with the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement (CCRM) gave a lecture on Active Citizenry and Voter’s Education. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

DA-7 Regional Executive Director Angel Enriquez (left) and Provincial Agriculturist Ramon Taroc (center) being interviewed by PIA-Siquijor Information Officer Rizalie A. Calibo (right) on the National Year of Rice advocacy with during the launching of National Year of Rice in Lazi, Siquijor. (PIA-Siquijor)

LGU-Naval sets up Breastfeeding Center located at the main entrance of the Town Hall to support nursing mothers in the workplace. (PIA8-Biliran)

Dr. Fernando Montejo, municipal health officer of LGU-Naval, assists Vice-Mayor Redentor Villordon in cutting the ceremonial ribbon for the formal opening of the LGU's Breastfeeding Center. (Lailani Tupas-PIA8 Biliran)

Vice Mayor Redentor Villordon, with DOH Representative Sol Montejo, cuts the ceremonial ribbon of LGU-Naval Breastfeeding Center recently located at the bus terminal. (Lailani Tupas-PIA8 Biliran)

Upang ipatupad ang kautusan ng Comelec, binaklas ng magkasamang puwersa ng Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) at Comelec ang mga tarpaulins ng mga kandidato na hindi akma ang sukat sa itinakda ng ahensya. May mga itinalagang common poster area sa iba't ibang lugar kung kaya't hindi pinapayagan na magkabit ng mga tarpaulins kung saan saang lugar lamang. (Photo and caption: Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas)

(L-R) Andrew Wee, president of the Seaweeds Industry Association of the Philippines; Cong. Angelo Palmones of AGHAM partylist; and Maximo Ricohermoso, chairman of SIAP, are among the panelists in the recently held media campaign to counter the petition of a foreign researcher banning carrageenan. The petition affects the dollar-earning industry in the country. (FCC/PIA CEBU)

The Philippine Coast Guard found 400 boxes containing frozen anteaters in the storage area of the Chinese fishing vessel that got stuck in the Tubbataha. Scaly anteaters or pangolins (locally known as "balintong") is in the near threatened classification of the Red List of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Gathering and trading of anteaters and all its parts and derivatives are banned according to Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act or RA9147. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Coast Guard)

Naval Vice Mayor Redentor Villordon, DOH Representative Sol Montejo and municipal health workers pose for posterity at the newly installed Breastfeeding Center located at the Naval bus terminal. (PIA8-Biliran/Lailani Tupas)

A first-time voter gets a briefing and a real feel of voting using a PCOS machine at SM City Cebu. The demonstration runs for one month and is open to the public. (FCC/PIA CEBU)

Various activities of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office – Bacolod during the Women’s Month Celebration. (EAD-PIA6/CENRO-Bacolod photos)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) National Capital Region OIC Ferdinand Manfoste (middle) poses for a photo after checking the canned products sold during the second leg of Diskwento Caravan held last week in 11th Avenue, Barangay 90 and 91, Caloocan City. Diskwento Caravan which was joined by 25 manufacturers and micro, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) offers from 20-70% discount in basic goods such as sardines, detergent soaps, coffee, processed meats, and other products such as leather goods, and handicrafts. Joining Manfoste (L-R: DTI-Camanava OIC Maria Josefa “Joie” Villaruel, Phil. Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)- NCR Vice President Nora Lacuna, PCCI- Valenzuela member Nestor Cedillo, and PCCI Regional Governor for NCR Danilo Sanchez. (DTI-PRO)

A Philippine Seabee high-fives a U.S. Navy engineer after they finish mixing a batch of cement for the construction of a footbridge in San Pascual, Zambales. The footbridge is being built as part of this year’s Balikatan Exercise. Barangay residents were previously cut off from their community, and had to make a 40-minute detour around the San Pascual River to reach schools and markets. During Balikatan 13, Philippine and U.S. military service members are working together on construction projects to help communities in need. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy)

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario during the AMM meeting (center) together with Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Policy Evan P. Garcia (left) and Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for ASEAN and Philippines Director-General Teresita V.G. Barsana (right). (DFA)

ASEAN Foreign Ministers pose for a photo during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei on April 11, 2013. (DFA)

Philippine and U.S. Marines compete in a weighted push-up contest with pupils from Maruglo Elementary School in Crow Valley, Tarlac. The contest was part of a Balikatan 2013 community relations event. Balikatan is an annual Philippine-U.S. exercise that allows the two militaries to increase interoperability, build lasting relationships, and provide assistance in local communities. (Photo courtesy U.S. Air Force)

President Aquino was the guest of honor in the test run of the Automated Guideway Transit (ATG) in UP Diliman on April 15, 2013. The ATG is an elevated train capable of transporting up to 60 passengers from station to station. (PIA)

Through consultations, the Philippine Army in Negros Occ. want to know more about the government land distribution program through CARP so that they can understand better people in the hinterlands. (DAR/PIA6-LOL)

Some women of Purok Bougainvilla, Tulapos, Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor pose with PIA-Siquijor Information Officer Rizalie A. Calibo (third from right) prior to the Pulong-Pulong conducted to more than 40 barangay women folks of the Tulapos Fishermen Association (TUFA) and the Kapunungan sa mga Anak sa yuta ug Dagat (KAYOD) on March 31, 2013 (Easter Sunday) to celebrate the Women’s Month. Some of the participants are also beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilya program. (RACalibo-PIA-Siquijor)

A typhoon Pablo "After Action Review" is conducted in Comval on April 8 to elicit learning which the "Government of the Philippines (GoP), humanitarian agencies and civil society can draw upon and apply to further enhance disaster preparedness and future disaster response operations.(A. Dayao IDS Comval)

DILG Regional Director Josefina Castilla-Go hands the Plaque of Recognition to Barangay Mamatid Chairman Ernani Himpisao for being one of the Most Outstanding Barangay Chairmen in Region IV-A as DILG City (Cabuyao) Director Melody Barairo (leftmost) and Provincial Director Lionel Dalope look on. (Photo and caption: HMH, City of Cabuyao/ACOrtillano, PIA-Laguna)

The Department of Agriculture will spend P200 million this year and P300 million in 2014 to encourage more farmers to plant hybrid rice varieties, double the area planted from last year’s 164,787 hectares to 388,000 hectares in 2014, and contribute to attain rice sufficiency by end of 2013. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (top photo, left) said the DA will continue to promote private and public hybrids, particularly those developed by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), during the 1st National Hybrid Rice Congress. He said the DA will also establish more hybrid rice techno-demo farms in major producing provinces in partnership with private seed companies, farmers’ groups and irrigators’ associations (IAs), and local government units (LGUs). PhiRice-developed hybrids could produce up to 12 metric tons (MT) per hectare, more than thrice the country’s average harvest of 3.8 MT per hectare. More than 1,000 farmers, seed producers, foreign rice experts, and local government officials attended the three-day event, keynoted by Professor Yuan Longping, China’s “father of hybrid rice technology.” Also shown at top photo (from left) are DA-Region 3 director Andrew Villacorta, DA assistant secretary and national rice program coordinator Dante Delima, Bureau of Plant Industry director Clarito Barron, Agrarian Reform undersecretaries Rosalina Bistoyong and Atty. Anthony Paruñgao, PhilRice director Eufemio Rasco and DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research engineer Rodolfo Fernandez. (Photo by Kathrino Resurreccion, DA-Information Service)

A Philippine Marine martial arts instructor demonstrates defensive maneuvers to U.S. Marines during a martial arts bilateral expertise exchange at Crow Valley on April 10. The event was part of Balikatan, an annual exercise aimed at ensuring interoperability of the Philippine and U.S. militaries. (Photo courtesy U.S. Air Force)

Dried fish and other marine produce on display at the Cadiz City Pavillion at the Panaad Park sell briskly during the one-week Panaad sa Negros Festival. (EAD-PIA6/Capitol photo)

Siquijor Provincial Gov. Orlando A. Fua Jr. declares his full support to agricultural programs in the province during the launching of the National Year of Rice in Lazi, Siquijor. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Isinagawa ng Comelec, DPWH at PNP ang Oplan Baklas kung saan inalis ang mga nagkalat na tarpaulins ng mga kandidato na hindi akma ang sukat sa itinalagang two feet by three feet na sukat ng Comelec gayundin ang mga tarpaulins na wala sa tamang lugar o common poster area. (photo and caption: Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas)

Volunteers from the Tax Management Association of the Philippines (foreground) assist a taxpayer (middle) in filing her annual income tax return today at Revenue Region 7 office in Quezon City. TMAP is composed of lawyers and accountants, among others.

Taxpayers beat the April 15 deadline for filing of income tax returns at Revenue Region 7 in Quezon City. The Bureau of Internal Revenue has announced that there will be no deadline extension.

World War II veterans belonging to the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines-North Luzon and the 66th Infantry Regiment with the city officials led by Mayor Mauricio Domogan and Congressman Bernardo Vergara and some officers of the Philippine Military Academy spearhead the commemoration of the 71st Araw ng Kagitingan at the Baguio Veterans Park on Tuesday, April 9. (Redjie Cawis PIA-CAR)

World War II veterans belonging to the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines-North Luzon and the 66th Infantry Regiment in a snappy salute during the commemoration of the 71st Araw ng Kagitinga on April 9 at the Baguio Veterans Park. They expressed hope that the younger generation would still remember their sacrifices and heroism to help attain the freedom the country is enjoying now. (Redjie Cawis-PIA)

Delegates from the 10 municipalities of Mountain Province dance to the beat of the gongs during the 46th Foundation Day of the province and the 9th Cultural and Lang-ay Festival in the capital town of Bontoc featuring the rich culture and tradition of the people. (Redjie Cawis PIA-CAR )

Boys from Bauko town in Mountain Province walk on stilts during the 46th Foundation Day of the province and the 9th Cultural and Lang-ay Festival in the capital town of Bontoc featuring the rich culture and tradition of the people. (Redjie Cawis PIA-CAR)

The tourism stakeholders of Bohol including various tourism-related establishments and organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, business, media and the citizenry affirm their support to the Child Wise Tourism Programme by asserting their vehement opposition to the commercial sexual exploitation of children in the tourism industry in a ceremony held at Alona Kew White Beach Hotel & Resort on April 12. (PIA-Bohol)

The first batch of the city council candidates of Baguio City presents their platforms of governance and answers issues and concerns in city during the Baguio Leaders Forum at the Baguio Country Club. The forum is organized by the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Baguio, the Baguio Correspondent and Broadcasters Club, the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas, ABS CBN Baguio, Skycable, PIA and the Baguio City Police Office. (Redjie Cawis PIA-CAR)

Kalinga Congressman Manuel Agyao (right), Rizal Vice Mayor Renato Vicente and Schools Division Superintendent Carolyn Verano award to Kinama Elementary School in Rizal town a flat TV for classroom use. This is the first time the school could use a high tech learning tool. (PBalocnit, PIA/Kalinga)

The Department of Education (DepEd) formalizes its partnership with Nestle Milo for the 2013 Palarong Pambansa after a Memorandum of Agreement signing led by (from left to right) Milo Sports Consultant Pat Goc-Ong, DepEd Assistant Secretary Tonisito Umali and Milo Sports Executive Andrew Neri. (DepEd/EPC/PIA-NCR)

The Department of Tourism-Cordillera, the City Government of Baguio and North Face Philippines, launch in a kapihan media forum the North Face 100 - the Ultra Trail Marathon 2013 set in Baguio - Benguet this April 20 and 21. The organizers expect 1,300 registrants from the country including runners from 15 other nations to join the event. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

This summer break, children and adults, Baguio residents and visitors alike enjoy horse back riding at the popular Wright Park in the City of Pines. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Facade of the P28 million Rizal town hall in Kalinga province inaugurated during the Pinikpikan festival. According to Rizal Mayor Marcelo dela Cruz Jr, (daytoy ket balay ti umili) this belongs to all tax payers of Rizal. (Peter Balocnit, PIA/Kalinga)

The Diocese of Baguio, in partnership with AM radio station DZWT 540 and FM radio station 99.9 Country, opens its voters' education forum on air. Broadcast live over radio, the forum which is held every Wednesday and Thursday at 10am to 12 noon, aims to give voters in Baguio and Benguet more information about the local candidates' programs and platforms, as well as their views on local issues and concerns. (Lito Dar/PIA CAR)

Members of the legendary Team Lakay, the top mixed martial artists in the country today, with their head coach Mark Sangiao (seated) pose for photo opportunity along Session Road, Baguio City. The athletes of team Lakay recently won in their competitions and some will be fighting in various tournaments in the country and abroad. (Redjie Cawis PIA-CAR)

With the good price of yellow corn, tons of corn harvested from the eastern part of Kalinga, particularly of Tabuk city and Tanudan, are daily transported for sale this peak month, earning farmers additional family income for their basic needs. With the Department of Agriculture's financial and technical assistance, corn production boomed after hundreds of cogonal lands were converted into corn production areas. (Peter Balocnit/PIA-CAR/Kalinga)

A Philippine Seabee high-fives a U.S. Navy engineer after they finish mixing a batch of cement for the construction of a footbridge in San Pascual, Zambales. The footbridge is being built as part of this year’s Balikatan Exercise. Barangay residents were previously cut off from their community and had to make a 40-minute detour around the San Pascual River to reach schools and markets. During Balikatan 13, Philippine and U.S. military service members are working together on construction projects to help communities in need. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy)

DepEd Schools Division Superintendent Carolyn Verano in her message during the Pinikpikan festival in Rizal town urges better coordination among teachers, local officials and other stakeholders and to work together for the improvement of schools. (Peter Balocnit, PIA/Kalinga)

Commission on Elections Cordillera Regional Director Jose Nick Almendros briefs police and military personnel led by Baguio City Police Office Director PSSupt. Jesus Cambay Jr., Benguet Police Provincial Office Director PSSupt. Rodolfo Azurin and Armed Forces of the Philippines – 503rd Infantry Brigade Deputy Commander Col. Raul Bautista on preparations and issues to be addressed relative to the May 13 midterm elections during the Provincial Command Conference for Baguio City and Benguet at the Solibao Heritage Mansion.(Redjie Cawis PIA-CAR)

Bike and fun runs announce the launching in Bohol of the Department of Tourism's Child Wise Tourism (CWT) as stakeholders and children's rights advocates attempt to insulate Bohol resorts from child sex tourism. The bike run starts after a brief program at the Plaza Rizal in Tagbilaran City to Alona in Panglao and simultaneous runs happen on the roads near the resorts and trails near Alona beach early morning on April 12. (PIA-Bohol)

The highlight of the Child Wise Tourism Programme held at the Alona Kew White Beach Hotel & Resort in Panglao, Bohol on April 12 is the signing of the Covenant of Commitment for the Protection of Children in Tourism which lists the pledges that concerned organizations will uphold to ensure the safety of children. (PIA-Bohol)

PIA-Bohol Information Center Manager, Rey Anthony H. Chiu signs the Covenant of Commitment for the Protection of Children in Tourism during the launching of the Child Wise Tourism Programme in Bohol held at Alona Kew White Beach Hotel & Resort in Panglao on April 12. (PIA-Bohol)

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista (r) escorted by outgoing Philippine Military Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Irineo Espino is given the traditional military honors during his visit at the PMA Fort Del Pilar on Thursday where he presided in the turnover of command ceremony from Espino to incoming PMA Superintendent VAdm. Edgar Abogado. (Redjie Cawis/PIA-CAR)

Camp O’Donnell, April 12, 2013 – Philippine Marines demonstrate for U.S. Marines how to make a jungle trap to capture wild animals for food. During Balikatan 2013 “jungle survival training.” The Philippine Marines also showed their U.S. counterparts how to produce fire using bamboo and to build makeshift shelters. Balikatan is an annual exercise aimed at ensuring interoperability of the Philippine and U.S. militaries during planning, contingency and humanitarian assistance operations. (Photo courtesy U.S. Marine Corps)

DA-7 Regional Executive Director Angel Enriquez (w/ mic) speaks during the launching of 2013 National Year of Rice in Siquijor. She said Central Visayas is food secured because we have all the available food requirement during. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Lazi Parish Priest and Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) chairman Rev. Fr. Leonard Tan (far right) talks about the Church's perspectives on election during the peace covenant signing at Lazi, Siquijor. He calls on all the candidates to make this election be a sense of service to our God, country and fellowmen. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Opening prayer during the Pulong-pulong conducted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) with the women folks, mostly wives and some members themselves of the Tulapos Fishermen Association (TUFA) and the Kapunungan sa mga Anak sa Yuta ug Dagat (KAYOD) at Purok Bougainvilla, Tulapos, Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor. (RAC/PIA-Siquijor)

Provincial Agriculturist Ramon Taroc (far right) reports that the average rice wastage of every Filipino which could have fed millions of Filipinos. He said that a typical Filipino wastes about two tablespoons of rice each day which is equivalent to 13% of the total rice import of the same year or the consumption of nearly 2.6 million Filipinos a year. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

PIA Director General Jose Mari Oquiñena, also a Gawad Kalinga stalwart, thanks the officers and members of Iloilo Golf and Country Club, Inc. for their support to the GK advocacy to help the government end poverty, particularly through their help to build homes for the poorest of the poor at the GK Village in New Lucena, Iloilo, in his message at the GK Iloilo Golf Cup held at the country's oldest golf course in Sta. Barbara town, April 13. (PIA 6)

Rev. Fr Leonard Tan, Lazi Parish Priest and Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) chairman, gives his message during the Peace Covenant Signing in Lazi, Siquijor. He asked the candidates to reflect as food for thought the church teachings through the social doctrine of the church specifically from the pontifical council for justice and peace. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Provincial Organic Agriculture coordinator Avelina Pis-an (center) of the provincial agricultural office shows Governor Orlando A. Fua (left) the root crops that are in Siquijor, locally known as “salag-on” as the department advocates for the consumption of other food staple in support to National Year of Rice advocacy. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

(L-R) DepEd Assistant Secretary Tonisito Umali; DepEd Undersecretary Rizalino Rivera; PTV 4 General Manager Cleo Donga-as; PTV 4 Sports Producer and Host Edmond Badua. (Dep-Ed/PTV)

Girls wear costumes of their favorite cartoon superheroines during the launch of the Bata Muna Campaign Caravan. They represent heroes fighting various problems that children are facing today: early pregnancy, disabilities, emergencies and unsafe surroundings. Bata Muna Campaign Caravan aims to encourage candidates to include child rights in their platforms. (PIA)

Twenty eight barangays of Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur group into seven clusters to participat in the street dancing competition locally known as Palad-Palad festival during the town's 46th founding anniversary on April 9. (PIA)

Barangay Mambuaya Chairman Agustin M. Bagongon (first person from left) and DOLE Region 10 Director Johnson G. Cañete place in their hand prints as ceremonial declaration of the memorandum of cooperation, together with the Grow a Tree, Save the Future Foundation, Oro Association Rafters, local river guides of the rafting industry, brgy. Mambuaya stakeholders and Xavier University Athletic Association in today’s tree planting and growing activity along the Mambuaya riverside. (Rodolfo D. Mendoza, PIA-10)

The new fire truck promised by the Unitop Department Store has finally been delivered to the City Hall premises on April 9, 2013. Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano expressed his gratitude to the donor saying that this new addition to the city fire district’s equipment arsenal will greatly help in emergencies, especially fire. (CDO CIO)

PCSupt Catalino B. Rodriguez Jr., PRO-10 Regional Director awards medal to three wounded police officers involved in an encounter with NPA rebels at Nalug-asan Creek, Sitio Liburan, Purok 3, Brgy Sagaran, Talakag, Bukidnon on April 10. (PSupt Ronnie Francis M. Cariaga, PRO-10)

A Chinese fishing vessel was caught yesterday in the north atoll of the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP). The vessel with bow number 63168 remains at the TRNP guarded by the Phil. Coast Guard. This is the 7th Chinese vessel caught within the TRNP since 2002. (Photo courtesy of the Tubbataha Management Office)

A team of 6 young Brazilian professionals recently made a courtesy call on Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano to kick off their April 8-16 cultural tour in Cagayan de Oro where they intend “to learn the local norms and practices of their vocations and to experience and understand the local culture.” The group’s tour was made possible through the Group Study Exchange (GSE) Program of the Rotary International. Above photo shows young lawyer Franciele Mariano Nascimento receiving some books about the city from the mayor. (CDO CIO)

The 12 Chinese nationals arrested in the Tubbataha Reefs aboard the fishing boat with bow number 63168 that run aground in the North Atoll on April 8, 2012 arrived in Puerto Princesa City this morning, April 12, at 8:30 on board the Philippine Coast Guard vessel 3503. Various agencies are working together to expedite the filing of charges against the fishers. These include: the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Western Command, Bureau of Customs, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Municipality of Cagayancillo. The violation of Section 27 (Poaching by Foreigners) of the RA 10067 is the primary case to be filed before the close of working hours today. (Photo by Dr. Terry Aquino, Tubbataha Management Office)

United States Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas welcomes participants to the 2013 Philippine Youth Leadership Program (PYLP), a four-week intensive leadership program held each year for selected Mindanao youth at Northern Illinois University. (U.S. Embassy, Manila-Public Affairs Section/PIA-NCR)

Reelectionist Panabo City Vice-Mayor James Gamao (left) and Davao City First District Congressional candidate Luis Bonguyan (right) during the second Candidates Forum organized by the Philippine Information Agency-XI held at the PIA-XI office. The thematic forum featured family members running for public service. Bonguyan's son, Louie John, is a reelectionist second district councilor in Davao City while Gamao's sister Janet is a reelectionist board member for the second district of Davao del Norte. (Photo RG Alama PIA XI)

Luis Simbajon of the DOH Health Facility Enhancement Program presents to the Cagayan de Oro press various DOH assisted projects in Northern Mindanao which comprises mostly of hospital and rural health units upgrade. He explained that the grant of assistance is based on projects spelled under the barangay, municipal, and provincial Health Investment Plan. (Yvonne A. Jimenez, PIA 10)

Palad-Palad Festival highlights 46th anniversary of Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur. (PIA)

Philippine Information Agency 10 employees join a tree planting and growing activity today along the riverside of brgy. Mambuaya in Cagayan de Oro City, headed by the Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office 10, together with the Grow a Tree, Save the Future Foundation, Oro Association Rafters, local river guides of the rafting industry, brgy. Mambuaya stakeholders and Xavier University Athletic Association. (Rodolfo D. Mendoza, PIA-10)

A mother reaches out to receive her free food pack during the People to People Program (PPP) held in Lapasan, April 10, 2013. All the usual free basic services were offered to all residents ranging from free champorado feeding to circumcision. (CDO CIO)

Bayog Mayor Leonardo Babasa Jr. said the Palad-Palad festival is our way of expressing our thanksgiving to the "most high" for the abundant blessings we received in the past days, months and years during the town's 46th founding anniversary on April 9. (PIA)

Zamboanga del Sur 2nd District representative Aurora Cerilles urges the people to conserve our environment and maintain the balance in our eco-system if we want to prosper. Cerilles was the guest of honor and speaker during the 46th founding anniversary of Bayog on April 9. (PIA)

DOH Nutritionist Dietician Beryl Lorraine G. Go says during the DOH media update on Wednesday that mothers noted positive change on their children’s weight, health and skin after introducing the micronutrient powder (MNP) mix on their meal. Micronutrient supplementation alongside with diet diversification and food fortification comprise the three-pronged strategy identified by the government to improve the nutritional status of children. It comes in a single-served sachet packed with 15 vitamins and minerals designed for children 6-23 months old. (Sweet Elah A. Mahinay, PIA 10)

Danny Flores of the Hydrometeorology Division of the Department of Science and Technology-PAGASA, explains the purpose of the Community-based Early Warning System during the Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) Information Education Communication Seminar held on April 12, 2013 at the MO2 Westown Hotel here. Project NOAH is part of the government’s efforts to prevent and mitigate the effects of natural disasters and risks associated with them. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay, executive director of Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards), provides an introduction of the project and explains how to use Project NOAH during the information education communication seminar held on April 12, 2013 at the MO2 Westown Hotel here. Project NOAH is part of the government’s efforts to prevent and mitigate the effects of natural disasters and risks associated with them. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Neg. Occ. Gov. Alfredo G. Marañon, Jr. (3rd from right) leads in the groundbreaking ceremony of the P45-million Negros First Rice Processing Center in Brgy. Tabunan, Bago City. It is a joint project of the Department of Agriculture and the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental. (PIO/PIA/CD photo)

One of the 15 looms turned over by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to the indigenous people beneficiaries last April 10 in Jamindan town as part of the multi-agency convergence project on abaca loom weaving dubbed “Purambos” aimed to improve the IPs economic activities. (DOLE/PIA Capiz photo/A. Lumaque)

Philippine National Police (PNP) Deputy Director General Ager Ontog speaks during the Memorandum of Agreement signing between PNP and the Department of Education. Ontog says PNP will ensure the safety of DepEd employees who will participate in the 2013 national and local elections. Present in the event from left to right is Lieutenant General Gregorio Macapagal, Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief of Staff, Commission on Election (COMELEC) Chairman Sixto Brillantes and DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro. (EPC/PIA-NCR)

During a rescue training for aircraft accidents, a Filipino Airman and a U.S. Marine discuss the capabilities of the K-12 rescue saw. Filipino and U.S. firefighters exchanged knowledge about tactics and techniques to better prepare them for emergencies. The training was part of Balikatan 2013, an annual exercise aimed at ensuring "interoperability" of the Philippine and U.S. militaries during planning, contingency and humanitarian assistance operations. (Photo courtesy U.S. Marine Corps)

(L-R) President Benigno S. Aquino III is being assisted by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH IV-A) Regional Director Huillio B. Belleza and Secretary J.R. Nereus O. Acosta, Presidential Adviser for Environmental Protection and Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) general manager, during the ceremonial launching of the DPWH-LLDA Flood Control and River Protection Convergence Project held on Friday in Brgy. Santisima Cruz, Santa Cruz, Laguna. (Photo: Cristobal G. Demerey, Jr./caption: Alan C. Ortillano/PIA-Laguna)

Various private agencies and corporations participate in the Job Fair 2013 on April 10, 2013 at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol. This endeavor is one of the major activities in celebration of Semana sang Iloilo 2013. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

President Benigno Aquino III reiterates his assurance for the completion of Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project II in his term that would provide water whole year round for more than 32,000 hectares of land in Iloilo during a meeting with local leaders and the community at Passi City Gymnasium, April 10. (EJB/PIA6)

Police Regional-7 Director Chief Supt. Marcelo P. Garbo Jr. (3rd form left) leads the conversation between Media and Police during a forum at the Police Regional Office-7 Media Center, Cebu City on April 11, 2013. With him are top PRO-7 police officers (starting 2nd from left to right) Cebu Provincial Police Director Senior Supt. Patrocinio A. Commendador Jr., Cebu City Police Director Senior Supt. Mariano P. Natuel Jr., Mandaue City Police Director Senior Supt. Petronelli M. Baldebrin, and Lapu-lapu City Police Director Rey Lyndon T. Lawas. The forum was moderated by Cebu Media Legal Aid Atty. Eddie Barrita (extreme left). (VVV/PIA Cebu)

PRO-7 Regional Operations and Plans Division Chief Senior Supt. Erson Digal (at the rostrum) gives election security updates during the forum between the Cebu media and the PRO-7 police officers at the Police Regional Office - 7 (PRO-7) on April 11, 2013. Top Police officers of Region-7 are the guest speakers headed by Police Regional Office-7 Director Chief Supt. Marcelo P. Garbo Jr (seated 3rd from left). The forum was moderated by Cebu Media Legal Aid Member Atty Eddie Barrita (seated 1st from left). (VVV-PIA7 Cebu)

Department of Education Secretary Armin Luistro and Lieutenant General Gregorio Macapagal, Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief of Staff, sign a memorandum of agreement at the DepEd Building in Pasig city. Under the MOA, AFP and the Philippine National Police will ensure the safety of DepEd personnel participating in the 2013 elections. Present in the event are Commission on Elections Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. (second from right) and Philippine National Police (PNP) Deputy Director General Ager Ontog (second from left). (EPC/PIA-NCR)

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro and Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Chairman Vicente Joyas sign a Memorandum of Agreement at the DepEd Building in Pasig City. Under the MOA, IBP will provide legal defense to DepEd employees who will participate in the 2013 elections. Also seen in the picture are Philippine National Police Deputy Director General Ager Ontog, Commission on Elections Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. and Atty. Rosaron Setias-Reyes, National Director for Legal Aid. (EPC-PIA/NCR)

Mae Paner a.k.a Juana Change plasters stickers bearing dinosaur figures with the text “End Political Dynasties!

President Benigno S. Aquino III, who leads the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Roxas City Airport Development Project in Roxas City, April 10, says that the government appropriated P215-million budget for the asphalt overlay and extension of the runway, installation of night landing facilities, acquisition of new fire trucks and improvement of the passenger terminal building of the city airport here. Also in photo are Capiz 1st District Rep. Antonio Del Rosario, DILG Sec. Mar Roxas, DOTC Sec. Joseph Emilio Aguinaldo Abaya and CAAP Director General William Hotchkiss III. (PIA6 JBGuillermo)

City government of Cabuyao in partnership with the City Environment and Natural Office (CENRO) and the Association of Barangay Chairmen head the citywide implementation of “Caravan para sa Tamang Pamamahala ng Basura” an integrated and multi-sectoral Solid Waste Management program to generate and strengthen awareness on the proper and efficient waste management in the city. (Photo and caption: HMH/ACO, PIA-Laguna)

Luis Oquiñena, Gawad Kalinga National Executive Director with Erna Sy Gorne, PIA-Southern Leyte Infocen Manager and Marcelo Pedalino during his visit to Maasin last month to grace the Bayani Challenge 2013 in the city. He extolled the participants to be relevant in their lives by sharing their time, talent and resources with the less fortunate. (PIA8 SoLeyte)

DOST Calabarzon and Rizal staff pose with Undersecretary for Science and Technology Services Fortunato Dela Pena during the board of election inspector (BEI) certification tests at Las Brisas Hotel, Antipolo City. (DOST Rizal/GG-PIA4A)

Regular Blood donor, Raymond Mapanoo, a municipal employee of Carmona who regularly donates blood is being prepared for blood extraction during the first quarter blood donation mission held the PT/OT Clinic of the main health center. A total of 155 volunteers composed of community members, industry and government employees participated in the recently concluded first quarter blood donation mission initiated by the local government. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/photo courtesy of Carmona PIO)

President Benigno S. Aquino is being briefed by Secretary J.R. Nereus O. Acosta, Presidential Adviser for Envoronmental Protection and Laguna Laguna Lake general manager and DPWH Region 4A Director Huillio B. Belleza during the ceremonial launching of the DPWH-LLDA Flood Control and River Protection Convergence Project on April 5 in Brgy. Santisima Cruz, Santa Cruz, Laguna. (Photo: Cristobal G. Demerey, Jr./caption: Alan C. Ortillano/PIA-Laguna)

Police Regional Office-6 Dir. Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz reads from the Bible some passages while PRO-6 Chaplain Supt. Ronilo Datu blesses the copies of the Holy Bible to be distributed to the different units region wide. (PRO-6/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

Promoting indigenous game. Members of the Indigenous Peoples play the “kadang” or stilts race as part of the on-going Athletics Activity of the Panaad sa Negros Festival. (Capitol photo)

President Benigno S. Aquino III tells that the Roxas City Airport Development Project will further boost the tourism industry as well as the economic growth of Roxas City and the province of Capiz. Also in photo are Capiz 1st District Rep. Antonio Del Rosario and DILG Sec. Mar Roxas. (PIA6/JBGuillermo)

GK Stakeholders and volunteers during the closing program of the 5 days Bayani Challenge 2013 (March 23-27) at the GK Friendship Village, Brgy. Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (RBM-PIA5/Camarines Norte)

Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. (second from left) delivers his speech during the Memorandum of Agreement signing between COMELEC and the Department of Education (DepEd). Brillantes said COMELEC will ensure that DepEd employees who render services during the 2013 elections will receive just compensation. Present in the event from left to right is Philippine National Police Deputy Director General Ager Ontog, DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro, Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Chairman Vicente Joyas and Atty. Rosaron Setias-Reyes, National Director for Legal Aid. (Photo by Emver P. Cortez/PIA-NCR)

Parañaque Mayor Florencio Bernabe Jr. (third from left) awards a certificate of participation to Parañaque National High School-Main graduate Lia Deen Rabe during the orientation for the third batch of the Bridge to Employment Program recently held at the Johnson & Johnson GFS Activity Center. Said program was founded by Johnson & Johnson in 1992 to provide educational support to students at-risk from stopping from school by motivating them to pursue higher education specifically in the medical field. The program allows selected students to move up continuously from a 2-year health care course, like Midwifery to a higher level of education. Meanwhile, the beneficiaries will render a “Return Service” in their respective communities in Parañaque after completing their studies. Also in photo (L-R): P’que Laboratory Division Head Joycelyn Aman, Johnson & Johnson HR & Contributions Director Sean Zantua, City Health Officer Dr. Olga Virtusio, World Vision Interim National Director Filomena Portales, P’que DSWD Head Dean Calleja, Parañaque Medical Officer Dr. Dionisio Sabio and other scholars. (P’QUE-PIO/PIA-NCR)

Oplan PolDykit, forms part of the citizens’ larger battle to put an end to political dynasties.

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro listens as Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Chairman Vicente Joyas speaks during the Memorandum of Agreement signing Between DepEd and IBP. Joyas said IBP commits to provide legal defense to DepEd employees who will be on poll duty. Also seen in the picture are Philippine National Police Deputy Director General Ager Ontog, Commission on Elections Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. and Atty. Rosaron Setias-Reyes, National Director for Legal Aid. (EPC-PIA/NCR)

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro and Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. sign a Memorandum of Agreement at the DepEd Building in Pasig City. Under the MOA, COMELEC will ensure that DepEd employees who render services during the 2013 elections will receive just compensation. In photo are Philippine National Police Deputy Director General Ager Ontog (extreme left), Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Chairman Vicente Joyas (extreme right) and other DepEd officials (back). (EPC/PIA-NCR)

The Philippines commemorates the valor of the Filipino prisoners of war who endured in the Death March in April 1942 under the Japanese forces. The Capas National Shrine is the former site of Camp O’Donnell, the final stop of the Death March from Mariveles, Bataan to Capas, Tarlac where around 20,000 Filipinos have fallen lifeless for the defense of the nation and its liberty. (DG-CPSD/PCCC-PMD)

Tarlac Governor Victor A. Yap and the youth sector represented by Boy Scouts of the Philippines and Girl Scouts of the Philippines lead the laying of wreaths for the Filipino veterans who were held prisoners of war by the Japanese forces in World War II during the “Paggunita sa Capas” on April 10, at the Capas National Shrine. (PIA/DG-CPSD/PCCC-PMD)

Mayoral bets from Metro Cebu 1st District of Carcar, Naga, Talisay and San Fernando are the discussants during the First Mega Cebu Candidates Forum 2013 at the Cebu Cultural Center. The forum is organized by Mega Cebu Development Corporation (MCDC) in cooperation with Philippine Information Agency, Cebu Daily News, RAFI, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, among others. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro (center) answers questions during the press conference held at the Ormoc City Hall attended by school journalists and the local media. Also in photo are DepEd 8 regional director Luisa Bautista-Yu and PIA Director-General Jose Marie Oquiñena. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Rich traditional Indonesian dances are to be showcased in the International Dance Exchange scheduled on April 11-14 at the Puerto Princesa City Coliseum. Thirteen countries plus our very own Philippine contingent will participate in this event hosted by the National Commission on Culture & Arts and the National Dance Committee. (Photo courtesy of NCCA)

President Benigno S. Aquino III lowers the time capsule while being assisted by Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippine Director General William Hotchkisss III (right in blue) and Department of Transportation and Communications Sec. Joseph Emilio Aguinaldo Abaya during the groundbreaking ceremony of the multi-million Roxas City Airport Development Project on April 10 in Roxas City, (PIA Capiz photo/A. Lumaque)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers queries on national issues during a media interaction at the Roxas City Airport following the groundbreaking and program for the Roxas City Airport Development Project on April 10. (PIA Capiz photo/A. Lumaque)

Executive Vice President Milagros Ong-How of Universal Harvester, Inc encourages all the Agricultural cooperatives, associations, producers and individual farmers to submit their nominee for the Search and Award for The Outstanding Farmers of the Philippines (TOFARM) during their launching, last week, in Cagayan de Oro City for the entire Mindanao leg. (Francis Jane M. Lumacang, PIA-10)

A composite team from PIA Cebu Infocen, RAFI, Cebu Daily News, and youth groups live tweeting and screening questions from SMS, Twitter and the audience from inside the pit of the Cebu Cultural Center during the First Mega Cebu Candidates Forum held April 10, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Department of Education Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro (l-r), Ormoc City Mayor Eric Codilla, PIA Director-General Jose Marie Oquiñena and Philippine Information Agency 8 Director Olive Tiu grace the opening ceremony of the 2013 National Schools Press Conference at Ormoc Superdome, Ormoc City, April 8. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Philippine Information Agency Director-General Jose Marie Oquiñena, the keynote speaker, delivers his message to the guests, visitors and participants of the 2013 National Schools Press Conference at its opening ceremony at the Ormoc Superdome, Ormoc City, April 8. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Director-General Jose Marie Oquiñena of the Philippine Information Agency (3rd from left) poses with Department of Education (DepEd 8) Director Luisa Bautista-Yu, Ormoc City Mayor Eric Codilla and DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro for photo-ops with campus photojournalists during the opening ceremony of the 2013 National Schools Press Conference at Ormoc Superdome, Ormoc City, April 8. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

“I now declare the 2013 National Schools Press Conference open,” says DepEd secretary Bro. Armin Luistro during its opening ceremony at Ormoc Superdome, Ormoc City, April 8. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Young campus photojournalists scramble for positions to get better shots of the guests during the opening ceremony of the 2013 National Schools Press Conference at Ormoc Superdome, Ormoc City, April 8. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Young campus photojournalists scramble for positions to get better shots of the guests during the opening ceremony of the 2013 National Schools Press Conference at Ormoc Superdome, Ormoc City, April 8. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

PIA Director-General Jose Marie Oquiñena poses with Tacloban and Ormoc based media personalities and some PIA 8 employees after the press conference with DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro at the Ormoc City Hall, April 8. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano offers flowers at El Pueblo A Sus Heroes Wall in Divisoria on April 9, 2013 to commemorate the Filipino heroes in accordance with their sacrifices and heroism. Accompanying Mayor Emano during the wreath laying is the Armed Force of the Philippines (AFP) 4th Infantry Division Commanding General Nestor A. Añonuevo. (Mark Anthony Dedoyco, PIA-10)

Assistant Election Officer Mastura M. Aliola of the municipality of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, assisted by DILG Officer Eden Gabutan and P/Insp. Mark Ian E. Quieta, acting chief of Police, all of Kauswagan town during the Operation Baklas, simultaneously done nationwide on April 8 (Monday). Election propagandas posted in the prohibited areas were removed pursuant to Comelec Resolution No. 9615 otherwise known as the 'Fair Election Act'. (LVGabule/PIA)

Veterans during the Araw ng Kagitingan Wreath-Laying Ceremony at El Pueblo A Sus Heroes Wall in Divisoria, Cagayan de Oro City on April 9, 2013. The activity is also a commemoration to the Philippine Veteran’s Week Celebration with the theme, “Ang Beterano: Sigla at Inspirasyon ng Kabataan Tungo sa Tuwid na Daan.” (Mark Anthony Dedoyco, PIA-10)

Universal Harvester, Inc. Executive Vice President Milagros Ong-How (second from left ) hands over the TOFARM PLATE to Renante Y. Inocando, The Outstanding Farmer (TOFARM) finalist, together with TOFARM National Chairman, JCI Mem. Rommel M. Cunanan and Inocando's wife from Cabanglasan, Bukidnon during the Search and Award for the Outstanding Farmers of the Philippines. (Francis Jane M. Lumacang, PIA-10)

At least 400 cyclists and bike enthusiasts on Araw ng Kagitingan (Tuesday) tour historic spots in Metro Manila with the Department of Tourism and Hunters-ROTC Historical Society's Kagitingan Bicycle Tour 2013. (Photo by Jerome Carlo Paunan)

The 4th Vicente Y. Emano (VYE) Cup kicked off on April 7, 2013 with a motorcade starting from the Gaston Park and ending at the Tablon Covered Court where the opening game commences with Cagayan de Oro City Councilor Ian Nacaya giving the ceremonial toss. (CDO CIO)

Cagayan de Oro City Acting City Administrator Wilma P. Rugay receives a special commendation from the Asian business Cabletow Cooperative Academy (ABCCA) through Professor Soc del Rosario for the city's service and role as ABCCA's partner. ABCCA recently celebrated its 4th Commencement Exercises for its latest graduates. (CDO CIO)

Cebu Business Club President Gordon Alan Joseph welcomes the candidates, media, guests and visitors during the first round of the Mega Cebu Candidates Forum 2013 at the Cebu Cultural Center, Cebu City. The First Mega Cebu Candidates Forum features the mayoral and congressional candidates from the 1st district of Mega Cebu: Naga, Talisay, San Fernando and Carcar. (VVV/PIA CEBU)

Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines Director General William Hotchkiss III welcomes and gives a briefing on the Roxas City Airport Development Project to Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III and party during a program in view of the groundbreaking rites of the multi-million project, April 10 at the Roxas City Airport. (PIA Capiz photo/A. Lumaque)

Eighty two-year old Ricardo Mancao, a long-time member of the Recyclists of Rizal, is seen here being interviewed by PTV Channel 4 after volunteering as one of the marshals for the recently concluded Kagitingan Bicycle Tour across historic Metro Manila. Mancao credits his longevity to healthy eating, positive mindset and of course, cycling. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan)

PIA Director General Jose Mari Oquiñena lauds the different groups and organizations who joined Bayani Challenge to build the newest Gawad Kalinga village in Sapad, Lanao del Norte. (PIO-LDN)

Bayanihan spirit is alive and well in Lanao del Norte as demonstrated by these happy volunteers who joined in the week-long house build activity of Gawad Kalinga-Sapad. (PIO-LDN)

Secretary J.R. Nereus O. Acosta (in white long-sleeved shirt), Presidential Adviser on Environmental Protection and Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) general manager, with the barangay officials of Brgy. Santisima Cruz, Santa Cruz, Laguna, during the ceremonial launching of the DPWH-LLDA Flood Control and River Protection Convergence Project held April 5, 2013. (Photo: Cristobal G. Demerey Jr./caption, Alan C. Ortillano, PIA-Laguna

This is one of the dances that the delegates from South Korea will perform in the International Dance Exchange scheduled on April 11-14 at the Puerto Princesa City Coliseum. Thirteen countries plus our very own Philippine contingent will participate in this event hosted by the National Commission on Culture & Arts and the National Dance Committee. (Photo courtesy of NCCA)

Philippine and U.S. military doctors help a young boy at a medical capabilities exchange held at Amungan Elementary School in Zambales. The cooperative health engagement, which matched up Philippine and U.S. service members to help the local community, consisted of medical, dental and veterinary projects. The project is part of Balikatan 13, the 29th iteration of the annual Philippine-U.S. military exercise. (Photo courtesy U.S. Marine Corps)

Philipine Information Agency 8 Director Olive Tiu delivers her testimony as a woman leader, in behalf of the awardees of Eastern Visayas Women with Distinction, during the DSWD Women’s Month Culmination Program held at the Leyte Park Convention Hall, Tacloban City, April 5. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA8)

Philippine Information Agency 8 regional director Olive Tiu, (l-r) National Statistical Coordination Board regional head Evangeline Paran and National Economic Development Authority assistant regional director Emma Sanopo accept a Women with Distinction Plaque from DSWD Regional Director Remia Tapispisan for their outstanding accomplishments as women champions of Eastern Visayas during the Women’s Month Culmination Program held at the Leyte Park Convention Hall, Tacloban City, April 5. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA8)

President Benigno S. Aquino III announces more benefits for the Filipino World War II veterans during the 71st commemoration of Araw ng Kagitingan in Mount Samat National Shrine Tuesday. Veterans are to receive additional P1,700 a month on top of their monthly P5,000 pension when they reach the age of 70. They are also entitled to a daily hospitalization allowance amounting to P1,200 in about 599 hospitals accredited by the Veterans Memorial Medical Center. (DG-CPSD/PCCC-PMD)

President Benigno S. Aquino III stands as Guest of Honor in the 71st celebration of the Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9 at the Mount Samat National Shrine, Pilar, Bataan. The Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario, Ambassador of the United States of America Thomas Harry Jr., Ambassador of Japan Toshinao Urabe, and Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin also witness the occasion. (DG-CPSD/PCCC-PMD)

President Benigno S. Aquino III, Ambassador of Japan Toshinao Urabe, Ambassador of the United States of America Harry Thomas Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista, National Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin and the Philippine Army lead the singing of the Philippine National Anthem during the celebration of the Araw ng Kagitingan at the Mount Samat National Shrine, Pilar, Bataan, on April 9. (DG-CPSD/PCCC-PMD)

President Benigno Aquino III leads the wreath laying ceremony today together with US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. (left) and Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe (right) during the 71st Commemoration of the Araw ng Kagitingan at Mt. Samat Shrine, Pilar, Bataan. (PIA-3)

In his message today at the 71st Araw ng Kagitingan at Mt. Samat Shrine in Pilar, Bataan, President Benigno Aquino III bares that war veterans will get an additional P1,700 monthly when they reach the age of 70, on top of their P5,000 monthly pension. (PIA-3)

Filipino veterans who fought for the country's freedom during the World War II are given honor in today's celebration of the 71st Araw ng Kagitingan led by (from left, front row) National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chair Dr. Serena Diokno, Foreign Affairs Sec. Albert del Rosario, US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr., President Benigno Aquino III, Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe, Defense Sec. Voltaire Gazmin and Bataan 2nd District Albert Garcia. (PIA-3)

Daet Mayor Tito Sarion gives his message and gratitude during the closing program of the 5 days Bayani Challenge 2013 (March 23-27) at the GK Friendship Village, Brgy. Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. The local government of Daet is one of the stakeholders in the said event to provide 10 houses for the GK. (PIA)

GK Provincial Coordinator Honorio Estravez discusses Gawad Kalinga projects during the closing program of the 5 days Bayani Challenge 2013 (March 23-27)at the GK Friendship Village, Brgy. Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (PIA)

Stakeholders/Volunteers join the boddle fight boodle fight before the send off to the buildersof the 5 days Bayani Challenge 2013 (March 23-27) at the GK Friendship Village, Brgy. Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (PIA)

Volunteers enjoy their meal in the boddle fight boodle fight before the send off to the builders of the 5 days Bayani Challenge 2013 (March 23-27) at the GK Friendship Village, Brgy. Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (PIA)

Guimaras OIC Tourism Officer Atty. Elijo Sharon Billones unveils one of the tourism packages being offered by tour operators in the province during the launching of the Guimaras Tourism Circuit that coincides with the opening of the Manggahan sa Robinson, April 8. (LAF/PIA6)

A total of 13 Micro Small and Medium Enterprises are participating in the Manggahan sa Robinson which will run until April 13 at Robinson’s Place, Iloilo. Some of the products on display and for sale are mangoes and other fruits, processed fruits and nuts, bags, accessories and others. (LAF/PIA6)

NEDA 6 Director Ro-Ann Bacal and DENR 6 Regional Executive Director Adeluisa Siapno untie the ceremonial ribbon to open the Manggahan sa Robinson featuring the best products of Guimaras province including its famous sweet mangoes at Robinson’s Place from April 8 to 13, 2013. The fair is also a pre-activity of the province’s Manggahan Festival which will formally start on April 15. Witnessing the event are DTI 6 Director Dominic Abad and Victor Facultad who represented Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog. (JCM/LAF/PIA6)

Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina and Department of National Defense Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans and Reserve Affairs Eduardo G. Batac award the 70 Years of Valor-Filipino War Veterans commemorative stamps to Corregidor Foundation, Inc. President Beth Day Romulo, represented by Leslie Ann Murrey of the Filipino-American Memorial Endowment. (Ralph C. Brojela/PCCC-PMD)

Department of National Defense Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans and Reserve Affairs Eduardo G. Batac and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina honor Filipino heroes during a wreath laying ceremony held at the Filipino Heroes Memorial in the historical Corregidor Island Sunday, April 7. The activity is in line with the celebration of the 2013 Observance of Araw ng Kagitingan and Philippine Veterans Week. (Ralph C. Brojela/PCCC-PMD)

Maj. Gen. Rustico O. Guerrero AFP, formally replaced Lt. Gen. Juancho Sabban AFP as the Western Command (WESCOM) Commander in a simple Change of Command Ceremony presided by the Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista AFP on April 1 at the ground of WESCOM. (6CRG/OCJ-PIA4B Palawan)

The bayanihan in barangay Mayabig, Baco, Oriental Mindoro is part of Pilipinas Natin-Bayanihan for Nation Building which started in March 23. The participation of the communities and volunteers in building houses may inculcate positive character formation as the only and necessary way to reclaim the people’s innate sense of "malasakit" (concern) and raise a new generation of heroic Filipinos. (Photo by: Mark C. Maliksi)

U.S. Navy Surgeon Lieutenant Commander Doctor Jennifer Almy and barangay health worker Geralyn Maranan listen to the heartbeat of a local resident’s baby during a medical community relations project at the Natividad Health Clinic in Zambales. In the lead-up to Balikatan 13, U.S. military service members have been working together with Filipinos on projects to help communities in need. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy/U.S. Embassy, Manila-Public Affairs Section/PIA-NCR)

Inilulunsad sa lalawigan ng Batangas ang Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue na may layuning muling ibalik ang 4-o'clock habit na pagpuksa sa pinagpupugaran ng mga lamok na nagdadala ng sakit na dengue. Ang Batangas ay isa sa may pinakamataas na kaso ng dengue sa buong Calabarzon kung saan noong taong 2012 ay may naitalang 7,000 kaso at 13 pagkamatay. (Photo and caption:Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas)

Maslalong pinaigting ng mga pulisya ang kanilang pagsusulong ng Safe and Fair Elections (SAFE) 2013 sa lalawigan kung saan isa sa mga tumugon dito ay ang prominenteng pamilya Bantugon sa bayan ng Bauan. Apat na mataas na uri ng armas na pawang lisensyado ang ipinagbigay kustodiya sa PNP habang ipinatutupad ang gun ban kaugnay ng Eleksyon sa Mayo 2013. (Photo and caption: Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas)

Health Secretary Enrique Ona ensures social insurance for poorest of the poor during the 76th founding anniversary of Pagadian City held recently at the Pagadian City gymnasium. (PIA)

Barangay officials, national and city officials and employees, non-government organizations, people's organizations, academe and civic groups listens to DOH Secretary Enrique Ona as the latter delivers his message during the 76th Founding Anniversary of Pagadian City at the city's gymnasium. (PIA)

(Seated, R-L) Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) Deputy Director for Operations Amaya Aboitiz, USJ-R President Rev. Fr. Enrico Peter Silab, OAR, and Dean Julieta Catipay of USJ-R’s College of Education, sign the project agreement for the “Certification Program on Mother Tongue-Based Multi-Lingual Education (MTB-MLE) for Public School Teachers” on March 21. With them are (standing, L-R) Jestoni Babia, USJR assistant project coordinator and Anton Dignadice, executive director of RAFI’s Education Development Unit. (AYS/PIA-7 contributed photo by RAFI)

May 2013 Election Candidates (from left) Maria Belen Acosta running for 1st District Councilor and Joji Ilagan Bian, a candidate for the 2nd District Representative attended the Candidates Forum organized by the Philippine Information Agency-XI. The Forum held last April 5 is the first in a series of media-candidates interfacing activities.(RGA/PIA XI)

Philippine Army Lieutenant Colonel Henry Bellan and his U.S. Army counterpart, Lieutenant Colonel John Garrity bury a time capsule containing the original construction plans for a footbridge being built in San Narcisco, Zambales on March 18, 2013. In the lead-up to Balikatan 2013 (BK13), Philippine and U.S. military have been working shoulder-to-shoulder on construction projects to help communities in need. The new 60-meter suspension footbridge will allow residents of Barangay San Pasqual to cross a river to attend school and sell goods at the village market without having to travel 40 minutes by road, as they do now. Balikatan is an annual Philippine –U.S. military training exercise and engagement in humanitarian assistance. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chris Fahey/U.S. Embassy, Manila-Public Affairs Section/PIA-NCR)

Regional Development Council 8 vice-chair and NEDA 8 regional director Bonifacio Uy (3rd from left), RDC-SDC chair and DOST regional director Edgardo Esperancilla, RDC-DAC chair and DBM regional director Imelda Laceras and RDC-IDC chair and DPWH regional director Rolando Asis during the RDC meeting held at the NEDA conference hall, Candahug, Palo, Leyte, April 5. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Former DND Secretary Renato De Villa leads the parade and review in honor of the Filipino veterans held Friday at Hunters ROTC Guerilla Field, Philippine Army Headquarters Fort Bonifcio, Taguig City. The activity is in line with the observance of the Philippine Veterans Week. (Lucia Brono/PIA-NCR)

DND Sec. Voltaire Gazmin salutes at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers at the Libingan ng mga Bayani during the kick-off ceremony in the observance of the Philippine Veterans Week. (Lucia Brono/PIA-NCR)

DND Sec. Voltaire Gazmin is given the arrival honor during the Wreath-laying Ceremony at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City held in the observance of the Philippine Veterans Week. Also in photo is Lt Gen Noel Coballes, Commanding General, Philippine Army. (Lucy Brono/ PIA-NCR)

(L-R) Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) President and COO Jorge Sarmiento, Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Cristino Naguiat Jr., and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio Singson sign the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) marking the second phase of the “Matuwid na Daan sa Silid-Aralan” project. Under the project, PAGCOR allocated an additional P2 billion for the construction of about 2,000 classrooms in public schools nationwide. (PAGCOR/EPC/PIA-NCR)

Br. Armin Luistro, Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary (3rd from left), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio Singson (2nd from right) and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Cristino L. Naguiat Jr., (4th from left) lead today the ceremonial turn-over of the mock check for the agency’s additional P2 billion funding for DepEd's “Matuwid na Daan sa Silid-Aralan” project. The heads of the three agencies sign a Memorandum of Agreement for the construction of about 2,000 classrooms in public schools nationwide. Also in photo: (from left) DepEd Undersecretary Mario Deriquito, PAGCOR President and COO Jorge Sarmiento and DPWH Undersecretary Alfredo Tolentino (extreme right). (PAGCOR/EPC/PIA-NCR)

Veterans assisted by Boy Scouts offered flowers to the tomb representing our heroic dead veterans during the Sunrise Ceremony at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City. Sunrise Ceremony kicks off the celebration of the of Philippine Veterans Week. (RJB/LFB/PIA-NCR)

A Philippine Navy Seabee and a U.S. Marine smooth concrete the floor during the rebuilding of Rabanes Elementary School. Before the rebuilding, the school was rendered unusable due to frequent flooding. In the lead-up to Balikatan 13, Philippine and U.S. military service members have been working together on construction projects to help communities in need. (Photo courtesy U.S. Marine Corps)

Shoulder-to-Shoulder at the launch of Balikatan 2013 in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City: From left: Major General Virgilio Domingo, Philippine Balikatan exercise director; Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista; U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas, Jr.; Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert del Rosario; Secretary of National Defense Voltaire Gazmin; and Brigadier General Richard L. Simcock II, the U.S. Balikatan Exercise Director. (Photo courtesy U.S. Embassy)

Elder citizens who still don’t have Senior Citizens ID Cards get to have their own during the People to People Program (PPP) of the Cagayan de Oro City Government to the different barangays in addition to other free basic services offered, such as the medical and dental consultations. (CDO CIO)

Philippine Army (PA) Commanding General Lt. Ge. Noel A. Coballes addresses guests and veterans during the Sunrise Ceremony in honor of veterans at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City (RJB/LFB/PIA-NCR)

Xavier University Kinaadman Research Center (KRC) spokespersons and researchers Dr. Edvilla R. Talaroc (from left), Dr. Astrid Lara Sinco, and Dr. Hilly Ann Quiaoit talk about their findings in their recently held survey on "Community Problem and Needs Identification in Cagayan de Oro City” during a press conference on April 3. (Mark Anthony Dedoyco, PIA 10)

Distribution of rice packs to the residents of Bugo during the recent implementation of the People to People Program in Cagayan de Oro City. (CDO CIO)

This Mango Mascot will again be among the entertainers during the week-long celebration of the Guimaras Manggahan Festival from April 14-21. The mango symbol was thought of by the Publicity Committee last year to add more color and thrill to the guests and tourists, according to Information Officer Leny G. Fible. (Guimaras PIO/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

The National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) Philippines, under the supervision of the Department of Science and Technology, conducts the Paper Presentation of the three scientists namely: Dr. Manuel Joseph C. Loquias, Dr. Allan Patrick G. Macabeo and Dr. Aaron Joseph L. Villaraza, who are finalists in the NAST Talent Search for Young Scientists. In photo are the finalists with the Board of Judges. The paper presentation was held Friday, April 5, at the Hyatt Hotel and Casino, Manila. (PCCC/PIA-PMD)

Over 300 doctors, nurses and medical personnel (left photo) participate in the Social Security System’s (SSS) Information Seminar on SSS coverage and benefits for employees of the Chinese General Hospital in Sta. Cruz, Manila last March 26. The event is headed by the SSS Member Relations Department (MRD) with the support of SSS Welcome branch, which is the SSS office nearest the hospital. Right photo shows MRD Member Education Section Head Bella Bermudo delivers her lecture during the SSS seminar. The SSS also offered a simultaneous mobile data capture service for hospital employees applying for the Unified Multipurpose Identification System (UMID) card, which currently serves as the SSS ID. Interested companies, associations and barangays can request the SSS for free Information Seminars and UMID data capture services by sending a letter of request to the SSS branch nearest them or to MRD at member_relations@sss.gov.ph or by calling up 920-6401 local 5336. (SSS)

PhilHealth Regional Vice President Walter Bacarreza (l-r); PhilHealth Senior Vice-President-Legal Sector Edgar Julio S. Asuncion; and Jane Sta. Ana, PhilHealth Board member, CAAC member listen to Atty. Michael Troy Polintan (right photo) as he discusses the role of the PHIC Ant-Fraud Campaign on violations against PhilHealth regulations during the Regional Multi-Sectoral Anti Fraud Awareness Forum held at the Leyte Oriental Hotel, Palo, April 4. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) applicants study their test questions during qualifying examinations in Tagum City. The Provincial Government of Davao del Norte will provide summer job to some 200 students to help them earn additional means for their schooling. (PIA)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Gregory L. Domingo (third form left), together with DTI 11 Regional Director Marizon S. Loreto, looks at the coco coir twining facility awarded to 50 coco coir twine producers of the Talomo Riverside Multi-Purpose Cooperative (TARIMCO) on March 22, 2013 in Calinan, Davao City. This facility is one of the 1,000 shared service facilities (SSFs) that the DTI intends to set up nationwide within the year. SSF is DTI’s flagship program for SME development that provides facilities shared by a number of beneficiaries, such as cooperatives, institutions and communities, to help micro and small enterprises be competitive in the local and global markets. (DTI-PRO)

As host municipality, Compostela Vice Mayor Atty. Rey Castillo gives inspirational message to the volunteers to the National Gawad Kalinga Build from March 23-27 at Brgy. Osmena where 25 duplex-type houses will be built. (a. dayao/ids comval)

Signaling the formal opening of the National Gawad Kalinga Build in Compostela are Cong. Maricar Zamora and former Cong. Manuel Zamora. The week long build on March 23-27 will have 25 duplex-type houses that will benefit 50 homeless and poor families affected by Typhoon Pablo. (A. dayao/ids comval)

The National Gawad Kalinga Build in Compostela opening on March 23. Sharing their love through sweat equity and financial support, the volunteers will build a total of 25 duplex-type houses that will benefit 50 homeless and poor families affected by Typhoon Pablo. (A. dayao/ids comval)

Participants to the Jr. NBA regional selection camp in Davao City wave for posterity. Conducted last April 1 to 2 at the University of Southeastern Philippines gymnasium, 499 hopefuls ages 10-14 took part in a series of tests to gauge their basketball skills and athletic discipline. The top 10 participants will advance to the national training camp in Manila this April 26-28 which will be attended by NBA legend Mugsy Bogues. (Photo Rudolph Alama)

Civil Service Commission (CSC-6) Regional Director Rodolfo B. Encajonado (left) explains the importance of the prompt filing the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) for government employees during an episode of Hangpanay program of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA 6) Community Communications Network (CCN). This is hosted by Mrs. Elsa Subong (right), PIA Iloilo Information Center Manager. (LTP/EJB/PIA-Iloilo)

District Engineer Lino Francisco C. Gonzalez of the 4th Leyte Engineering District (right) inspects the ongoing Ormoc-Lake Imelda road upgrading project with a local citizen. Lake Imelda is a tourist spot in Ormoc City which is eyed to contribute spur economic development in the city. (PIA-8/DPWH-4th LED)

A small group discussion assessing peace and development in the town of San Remigio after the closing ceremonies of the just concluded Bayani Challenge activity in the said town. (Clockwise) Mayor Glenn Cabigunda of San Remegio; LTC. Aldwine Almase, Battalion Commander, 82nd Infantry Battalion; Col. Arnold Quiapo, 301st Brigade Commander; and Margie L. Gadian, Manager, PIA-Antique.(MLG/PIA6-Antique)

Mayor Evelyn T. Uy distributes scholarship certificates to poor but deserving students. (PIA)

Dr. Bernard Yap, Babak Health Center Rural Health Physician and member of IGaCoS Rabies Control Committee, emphasizes the role of students in maintaining proper health condition of dogs as responsible pet owners as well as helping the city government in disseminating rabies elimination program during the symposium held in Holy Cross of Babak Inc., IGaCoS. (PIA 11)

City Veterinary Office personnel conducts rabies vaccination to dogs brought by Holy Cross of Babak Inc. students during the Rabies Awareness Month Celebration last March 15, 2013. (PIA 11)

Atty. John Paul O. Devilleres, Registry of Deeds, speaks on Land Documentation and Registration during the Monday Convocation hosted by IGaCoS Assessor’s Office, March 18. (PIA 11)

Members of the Region 4 Multi-Sectoral Governance Coalition pose with top CSC officials. From Left, Region 4-B Director Daniel O. Sagun, CSC RO4 Director III Katherine Delmoro, DepEd Region 4-A OIC-Director Lorna Dig-dino, Assistant Commissioner David Cabang, CSC RO4 Director Lydia Castillo, Cavite 5th District Rep. Roy Loyola, CSC RO4 Director III Lucina Flor Ramos, University of Rizal System President Marita Canapi, DILG IV-A Asst. Regional Director Ariel Iglesia, Philippine Association of Water Districts, Inc. President Alfredo Silva, and Rotary District International 3800 District Governor- Nominee Luizo Ticman. (CSC)

Civil Service Commission Chairman Francisco T. Duque addresses members of the regional and provincial multi-sector advisory councils during their induction Friday at the Bulwagang Serbisyo Sikil in Diliman, Quezon City. (CSC)

Philippine Army Lieutenant Colonel Henry Bellan and his U.S. Army counterpart, Lieutenant Colonel John Garrity, bury a time capsule containing the original construction plans for a footbridge being built in San Narcisco, Zambales, on March 18. In the lead-up to Balikatan 13, Philippine and U.S. military have been working shoulder-to-shoulder on construction projects to help communities in need. The new 60-meter suspension footbridge will allow residents of Barangay San Pasqual to cross a river to attend school and sell goods at the village market without having to travel 40 minutes by road, as they do now. Balikatan is an annual Philippine –U.S. military training exercise and engagement in humanitarian assistance. (Photo Courtesy of U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chris Fahey)

The Social Security System (SSS) participated in the month-long job fair on March 2013 entitled "Hanap-Buhay para sa mga TESDA Specialista: A Jobs Bridging Program for Tech-Voc Graduates," which aims to bring employment opportunities closer to applicants who took up technical and vocational (tech-voc) courses. A team from the SSS Member Relations Department (MRD) conducted online inquiry services, forms issuance and counselling, as well as offered the Educational Assistance (Educ-Assist) Loan Program to SSS members with beneficiaries who are tech-voc and degree students. The SSS grants borrowers per semester or trimester of up to P7,500 for tech-voc courses and up to P15,000 for college degrees under the SSS Educ-Assist Loan program, with loan repayment only starting a year after graduation. Photo shows MRD Member Education Section Head Bella Bermudo (right) and MRD Assistant Communications Analyst Kris Abelarde (2nd from right) during the Quezon City leg of the job fair last March 11 held at the Quezon City Hall Covered Walk. The SSS also joined the tech-voc job fairs held in SM Tunasan, Muntinlupa (March 18); Taguig City Hall (March 19); Cuneta Astrodome, Pasay City (March 22) and Pasig City Sports Complex (March 25). The job fair was organized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-NCR, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) with the support of the Public Employment Service Office (PESO). (SSS)

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (2nd from left) meets Professor Yuan Longping (middle), China’s ‘Father of hybrid rice,’ and Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Ma Keqing (left), who called on him, April 1, 2013, at the DA national office in Quezon City. Professor Longpin shared with the DA chief how he developed hybrid rice that made China self-sufficient and a major producer. Currently the Director General of China Hybrid Rice R&D Center, Longpin is in the country to keynote the 1st National Hybrid Rice Congress, April 3-5, 2013, at the DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute, in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. During the meeting, Secretary Alcala and Ambassador Ma also discussed the expansion of the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Muñoz, including the establishment of 100-hectare production areas in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao to field-test PhilSCAT-developed hybrid rice varieties and farm machinery. Also shown with them are SL Agritech Corp. chairman and CEO Henry Lim Bon Liong and former PhilRice director and current DA rice program consultant Dr. Santiago Obien. (Photo by Katrhrino Resurreccion, DA Information Service)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Gregory L. Domingo (left) and Region Director Blesila A. Lantayona (second from right), join (from left to right) DTI Nueva Ecija Provincial Director Brigida T. Pili, DTI Bulacan Provincial Director Zorina D. Aldana, DTI Pampanga Officer-in-charge Elenita Ordonio in receiving their awards from Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairperson Francisco Duque and CSC Region 3 Director Myrna V. Macatangay. The three DTI provincial offices have garnered a rating of “Excellent” after having been subjected to the validation processes of the CSC. This award was given on March 25, 2013 at the Industry and Investments Building in Makati City. (DTI-PRO)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Merly M. Cruz (left) is joined by Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Administrator Euclides G. Forbes (right) and PHILCOIR, Inc. President Ariel F. Aguirre (center) in launching the coco coir industry source book during the 2nd National Coco Coir Summit in Lucena City last March 21, 2013. This source book provides vital information for the coco coir industry stakeholders, and serves a useful reference for key players in the industry. This book was published by the DTI with the initiative of the Coco Coir Inter-agency Technical Working Group (TWG). With the theme “May pera sa bunot”, the summit was held from March 21 to 22 at the Queen Margarette Hotel, Lucena City. It aims to gather the industry’s stakeholders and key players nationwide to assess their performance status, update on the results of government interventions, share best practices for replication, and resolve their concerns. It also served as a venue to present forthcoming programs and projects for the industry. (DTI-PRO)

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (left) and Italian Ambassador Massimo Roscigno share a light moment during the latter’s visit at the Department of Agriculture (DA) office in Quezon City on March 18, 2013. Alcala and Roscigno discussed possible initiatives between the Italian Government and the DA to uplift lives and livelihoods of rural folks in Mindanao. Roscigno stressed that he wants to avoid duplication of projects that are already in place thru foreign funding institutions such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank. Thus, the Agriculture chief promised that he will ascertain which rural communities are already receiving aid to prevent overlapping of programs. (Photo by: Jose Lucas, DA-Information Service)

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (3rdfrom left) and Philippine Mango Industry Foundation Inc. (PMIFI) President Virginia de la Fuente (2nd) together with High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) National Program Coordinator Dir. Jennifer Remoquillo (right) and PMIFI Treasurer Hernani Lopez (left) ink the Memorandum of Agreement providing P10-million assistance from the Department of Agriculture (DA) through HVCDP during the 15th National Mango Congress on March 20, 2013 at the Ramon Magsaysay Technological University in Iba, Zambales. The agreement aims to bolster the mango industry in the country by providing inputs and technical assistance to the farmers especially mango growers.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (above photo) encourages participants (below) of the 15th National Mango Congress to include other livelihood activities in their mango production initiatives during the event’s opening on March 20, 2013 at the Ramon Magsaysay Technological University in Iba, Zambales. Alcala said that mango-growing can be combined with agri-tourism projects or livestock-raising among others to boost farmers’ income. During the event, the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) allotted P10-million worth of inputs and technical assistance to the Philippine Mango Industry Foundation Inc. (PMIFI) to further boost the industry. With him in the photo are (from left to right): Samahang Magmamangga ng Zambales Inc. President Evelyn Grace, PMIFI Pres. Virginia de la Fuente, Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane, Ilocos Norte Vice Gov. Angelo Barba, DA-Region III Regional Director Andrew Villcorta, and DA-HVCDP National Coordinator Jennifer Remoquillo. (Photo by: Alan Jacalan, DA-Information Service)

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala encourages participants of the 15th National Mango Congress to include other livelihood activities in their mango production initiatives during the event’s opening on March 20, 2013 at the Ramon Magsaysay Technological University in Iba, Zambales. Alcala said that mango-growing can be combined with agri-tourism projects or livestock-raising among others to boost farmers’ income. During the event, the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) allotted P10-million worth of inputs and technical assistance to the Philippine Mango Industry Foundation Inc. (PMIFI) to further boost the industry. With him in the photo are (from left to right): Samahang Magmamangga ng Zambales Inc. President Evelyn Grace, PMIFI Pres. Virginia de la Fuente, Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane, Ilocos Norte Vice Gov. Angelo Barba, DA-Region III Regional Director Andrew Villcorta, and DA-HVCDP National Coordinator Jennifer Remoquillo. (Photo by: Alan Jacalan, DA-Information Service)

Department of Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad recognizes the importance of budget officers in the success of government agencies, local government units and corporations in his keynote speech during the 1st Quarterly Membership Meeting and Seminar of the Philippine Association for Government Budget Administration (PAGBA), Inc., held on April 3, 2013 at the Sarabia Manor Hotel here. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

The United States Ship (USS) Tortuga (LSD 46) arrives in Manila Tuesday, April 2, to participate in the 2013 Philippines-United States Balikatan exercises on April 5-17. The U.S. ship will support Philippine and U.S. troops’ joint training for humanitarian assistance and disaster response scenarios. (U.S. Embassy Manila-Information/PIA-NCR)

Jean Genosa (2nd from right) of the Contractors and Sub Contractors Group holds the modules of the training courses which were turned over to her by DOLE 6 Director Ponciano Ligutom (1st from left) on behalf of the DOLE intermediaries in Western Visayas during the launching of the “DOLE Intermediaries Academy” in Oton, Iloilo recently. The training program intends to further upgrade the capabilities of DOLE 6 intermediaries, among others. (LAF/PIA6)

Perla Lena of the Philippine News Agency in Iloilo, has been selected as one of Iloilo City's "Outstanding Women for 2013." With her are Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, IBP Iloilo Chapter President Atty. Aila Endonila, and Vice Mayor Jose Espinosa. (LAF/PIA6)

Jean Genosa (2nd from right) of the Contractors and Sub Contractors Group holds the modules of the training courses turned over to her by DOLE 6 Director Ponciano Ligutom ( leftmost) on behalf of the DOLE intermediaries in Western Visayas. This was during the launching of the “DOLE Intermediaries Academy” in Oton, Iloilo recently. The training program intends to further upgrade the capabilities of DOLE 6 intermediaries, among others. (LAF/PIA6)

Volunteers of this year's Bayani Challenge (Team Metro Manila) having a blast with the "Unity Dance" during a program held recently in Intramuros, Manila. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan)

A symbolic union of stakeholders in the Bayani Challenge 2013 where representatives from government agencies, non-government organizations, the military and police, and other stakeholders took part in the 5-day test of endurance and dedication to build 30 houses for the poor in Basilan. (RVC/PIA9-ZBST)

A new village is rising in Basilan that is part of the “highway of peace,” built from the sweat and passion of hundreds of volunteers from all walks of life in the province and from outside. (Rene V. Carbayas/PIA9-ZBST)

Various sectors and stakeholders take part in the Bayani Challenge 2013 in Basilan. (Rene V. Carbayas/PIA9-ZBST)

(Left) Former Mayor Nila Aguillo and Cabuyao City Mayor Isidro I. Hemedes Jr., as well as the incumbent members and aspirants of City Council (right panel), sign the covenant agreement for a free and clean elections. (photo and caption: CIO-Cabuyao/ACO, PIA-Laguna)

DILG-Laguna Provincial Director Lionel L. Dalope (center) presented Certificate of Recognition to Cabuyao City Mayor, Isidro l. Hemedes, jr. (left) and Ernani G. Himpisao (right) at the flag-raising ceremony on March 18, 2013. DILG recognized City of Cabuyao for achieving an excellent score of 95.30 in the Anti-Red Tape Act-Report card Survey (ARTA-RCS) for the Fiscal Year 2012 in compliance to the requirements of the Seal of Good Housekeeping – Silver Grade. Brgy. Mamatid received recognition as the Outstanding Lupon of Laguna Component City Category during the 2013 Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives and Awards (LTIA) Implementation for the period covered January to December 2012. (CIO-Cabuyao/ACO, PIA-Laguna)

Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla (3rd from the left) is all smiles as he turns-over the PNP hat to one of the members of the Bacoor Junior Police during the launching of the program at Barangay Molino 3 covered court. The program aims to further encourage the involvement and awareness of various sectors especially the youths in safety and fire prevention in the city. Others in photo are: PNP P/Supt Ronaldo Mendoza (2nd from the right), BFP Senior Chief Inspector Aldwin Salazar (right), SK President Miles Bautista, and City Councilor Bayani de Leon. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/photo courtesy of Bacoor PIO)

Members of the Epektibo at Responsableng Kababaihan sa Bagong Laguna (ERK2SBL) from the 25 municipalities and five component cities of the province recently attended their second general assembly held at the Festival Grounds, Provincial Capitol Compound in Santa Cruz, Laguna. Highlight of the occasion was the reporting of the organization’s accomplishment from March 2012 to present. The event is in conjunction with the observance of Women’s Month celebration this month of March. (photo and caption: PIO-Laguna/ACO, PIA-Laguna)

Philippine Navy personnel are all smiles while doing their share in building and constructing homes in Barangay Hugo Perez in Trece Martires City as part of the five-day Bayani Challenge last March 23-27 2013. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite)

Resident volunteers plant mangrove propagules in Barangay Muzon 1 in Rosario last March 21 as part of the clean-up and mangrove planting activities led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resource-Cavite in two coastal towns in the province. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/photo courtesy of DENR-Cavite)

Rosario Mayor Jose M. Ricafrente, Jr. (2nd from the right) together with Engineer Francisco Arellano (right) Head, Corporate Quality, Environment, Safety and Health of Maynilad Water Services, Inc. lead the signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the continuous protection and maintenance of the established mangrove rehabilitation projects. Others in photo are Ms. Judaline A. Fabro, DENR-Cavite Public Information Officer (2nd from the left) and Engineer Marconi Austria, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer of Rosario. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/ photo courtesy of DENR-Cavite)

Technology Resource Center Director General and CEO Dennis Cunanan turns over the Transfer Certificates of Title on a 17,000 square meter property formerly owned by TLRC to the City Government of San Fernando represented by City Treasurer Mary Ann Bautista. The lot now houses the Heroes Hall, Heroes Park and the City College building and is eyed to be the location of a new City Hall building. (photo courtesy of CSF-CIO)

Members of the Inter-agency Oplan Red Plate Task Force to include representatives from the Office of the Ombudsman, Land Transportation Office, Civil Service Commission, Commission on Audit, Philippine National Police and the Philippine Information Agency flag down vehicles bearing red plates during the conduct of the region-wide simultaneous operation where check points are set up in parts of the province of Negros Occidental as well as inspections in parking lots of malls in Bacolod City are conducted.*(EAD-PIA6 photo)

Nagkaloob ang pamahalaang panlalawigan sa pamamagitan ng Provincial Agriculture's Office ng ilang mga kagamitang pang-agrikultura sa mga samahan ng magsasaka sa limang bayan sa lalawigan kabilang ang Rosario, Padre Garcia, Agoncillo, Balete at San Juan. Ang mga kagamitang ito ay layong mas maitaas pang lalo ang antas ng pamumuhay ng mga magsasaka sa lalawigan ng Batangas. (photo: PAO/caption: Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas)

(Left) Edgardo C. Mando , Philippine Bamboo Foundation Inc. president and guest speaker receives a certificate of appreciation from San Fernando City Vice Mayor Hermenegildo A. Gualberto (right) during the opening of agri-trade fair and launching of “Kawayan” as One Town One Product of the city.(MCA/MHH PHOTO BY:Vic Villanueva)

Students and teachers from Centennial Academy of the Blessed Trinity in General Trias, Cavite pose for photo during lunch break in Barangay Hugo Perez in Trece Martires City. The students are among the hundreds of youth volunteers who braved the scorching heat to work together to build, construct homes and refurbished school buildings including medical mission and feeding program in said barangay as part of the 5-day 8th Bayani Challenge spearheaded by Pilipinas Natin, the flagship volunteer program of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO). (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite)

Atty. Elena Maye Quitola of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte answers issues that were raised on the law that protects the rights of women during the Kapihan sa PIA last March 25 at the PIA Laoag InfoCen. The Kapihan was conducted in celebration of this year's Women's Month with the theme "Kababaihan: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan". (Photo by Ariel Paolo Tejada)

BAYANI CHALLENGE 2013. PIA Director General and Presidential Communications Operations Office for Special Concerns Chief Jose Mari Oquiñena joins volunteers in the unity dance during the Bayani Challenge 2013 closing ceremony in New Lucena, Iloilo. The event was participated in by more than 3,000 volunteers, mostly youth. (LAF/PIA6)

Volunteers join Homebuild chores for the GK Bayani Challenge in Barangay Dinagan, Calbayog City to build homes for 52 poor families, as the Bayani Challenge comes to a close, homes were built, trees planted, vegetable gardens tended and schools refurbished benefitting not only Dinagan but also nearby barangays of Amampacang, Oquendo, Rizal Dos, Mabini and Lungsob, all of Calbayog City. (NBQ)

Volunteers of Gawad Kalinga Bayanihan Challenge helping each other to build the 10 houses for the recipient-families for the new GK Village at Brgy. Sto. Niño Bato, Leyte, March 25. (Raul S. Tiozon PIA-8)

Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director General Jose Mari Oquiñena joins the volunteers in performing the Unity Dance during the closing ceremony of the 2013 Bayani Challenge in Barangay Cabugao, New Lucena, Iloilo. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

The 1500-strong volunteers of this year's Bayani Challenge parading in the streets of Intramuros, Manila. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan/PIA-NCR)

PIA Director General and Presidential Communications Operations Office for Special Concerns Chief Jose Mari Oquiñena discusses with GK Iloilo Provincial Head Mari Rose Cacho, New Lucena Mayor Liecel Mondejar Seville and Vice Mayor Nestor Sibolinao and PIA 6 Director Janet Mesa before the closing ceremony of the Bayani Challenge 2013 at the GK Village in New Lucena, Iloilo, March 27. (LAF/PIA6)

Raffy Bautista, an indigenous person and one of the identified beneficiaries of the initial 30 houses at Gawad Kalinga Village in Brgy. Cabugao, New Lucena, Iloilo helps build his future house as well as that of his neighbors during the Bayani Challenge 2013. Beneficiaries are encouraged to render sweat equity under the GK. (LAF/PIA6)

President Benigno S. Aquino III made an ocular inspection at the North Port, the country’s busiest domestic terminal, in his bid to guarantee safety during the Holy week. Left photo shows P-Noy, along with Transport Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya and right photo with Philippine Ports Authority General Manager Juan C. Sta. Ana, who conducted the inspection in Pier 12, which is being occupied by Philippine Span Asia Carriers, Corp. (formerly Sulpicio Lines) and likewise boarded M/V Princess of the South to make sure that the company follows strict safety guidelines. P-Noy, Abaya and Sta. Ana are also joined by Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Sonny Coloma, Transport Undersecretary for Operations Eduardo Oban, Maritime Industry Authority Administrator Nicasio Conti, Coast Guard Commandant Rodolfo Isorena, North Port operator Manila North Harbour Port, Inc. (MNHPI) chair Dr. Michael Romero and MNHPI chief executive Richard Barclay. (Photos by Bong Paringit)

Volunteers of all shapes and sizes join Homebuild chores for the GK Bayani Challenge in Barangay Dinagan, Calbayog City to build homes for 52 poor families, as the Bayani Challenge comes to a close, homes were built, trees planted, vegetable gardens tended and schools refurbished benefitting not only Dinagan but also nearby barangays of Amampacang, Oquendo, Rizal Dos, Mabini and Lungsob, all of Calbayog City. (with TPueblos PBS)

The new look of Wari-Wari Elementary School in New Lucena, Iloilo after it became the site of the School Build and Paraiso Pambata activities of the Bayani Challenge 2013. (LAF/PIA6)

Philippine Information Agency 8 regional director Olive Tiu (right) delivered her inspirational message and commitment of support before the residents, volunteers, and participants of Gawad Kalinga Bayanihan Challenge, in Brgy. Sto. Niño Bato Leyte, during the MOA and Covenant signing among partners, March 25. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

ICM Rosalita B. Manlangit of PIA Camarines Norte asks questions to the guests: P/Insp. Ana Rose A. Domingo, Chief of Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) of the Camarines Norte Police Provincial Office (CNPPO) and Social Worker I /GAD Focal Person Dolores Tresmonte of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) during the “Talakayansa PIA” for the “Women’s Month Celebration” held March 20, 2013 at PIA Information Center Office. (PIA)

Media people covering the “Talakayans a PIA” for the “Women’s Month Celebration” held on March 20, 2013 at PIA Information Center Office.

The officials of the Gawad Kalinga (GK) Foundation with Daet Mayor Tito Sarion (center), Jocelyn Calimlim, CAO of the provincial government (in yellow blouse) and Lt. Col. Michael Buhat of 49th IB of the Philippine Army (PA) during the opening ceremony of the Bayani Challenge 2013, March 23 at the GK Friendship Village, barangay Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (PIA Cam. Norte)

The signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Gawad Kalinga (GK) projects after the opening ceremony of the Bayani Challenge 2013, March 23 at the GK Friendship Village, barangay Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. From left, Daet Mayor Tito S. Sarion, Board Member Romeo Marmol, Governor Edgardo Tallado, San Lorenzo Ruiz Mayor Nelson de los Santos, Honorio Estravez of GK and Brgy. Captain Eduardo Cabaña of Laniton. (PIA Cam. Norte)

Three volunteers pose with the children of barangay Dinagan, after the Paraisong Pambata event where kids learn new songs, listen to stories and exchange ideas with their ate and kuya from the GK Bayani Challenge rolling out for five days. (NBQ)

Philippine Information Agency 8 regional director Olive Tiu (3rd from right) signs the memorandum of agreement (MOA) together with other representative of government agencies, local government unit, non-government organizations, academe and other sectors in support to the 2013 Bayani Challenge held at the Brgy. Sto. Niño Bato Leyte, March 26. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

National Statistical Coordination Board 8 regional head Evangeline Paran (5th from left) and PIA regional director Olive Tiu (center) pose with the some members of the media after the Harampang ha PIA, March 27. The topic focused on the theme, “Kababaihan: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan” in line with the 2013 Women’s Month celebration. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

RD Melchito Castro, (left-most) of the Office of Civil Defense Region 1 and chairperson of the regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, presiding over the meeting of government agencies' preparedness plan for the OPLAN Semana Santa 2013.(caption by Danny Role, photo by enaungayan)

Philippine Information Agency 8 regional director Olive Tiu (5th from left) pose with volunteers of Gawad Kalinga Bayanihan Challenge at the site in Brgy. Sto. Niño Bato Leyte, March 25. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

National Statistical Coordination Board 8 regional head Evangeline Paran (left) is introduced to the media by PIA 8 regional director Olive Tiu (right) to the media during the Harampang ha PIA in Tacloban City, March 27. The topic focused on the theme, “Kababaihan: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan” in line with the 2013 Women’s Month celebration. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

Volunteerism is alive in Negros Occ. Bayani Challenge volunteers prove that offering one's services for a noble cause also reigns high in the hearts and minds of young people in Negros Occ. This was proven during the five-day community service drive in Cadiz City, March 23-27. Photo shows a street hardly containing the volume of volunteers who participated in the event. (J.Sun-GK/PIA6-LOL)

Building Houses with Bayani Challengers in Cadiz City, Negros Occ. Volunteers help carry hollow blocks that will soon be a home to homeless residents in Cadiz City. Three units are seen to rise in Brgy. Tinampaan. (J. Sun-GK/PIA6-LOL)

Women's Rights Campaign in Negros Occ. Famous columnist and women's rights advocate Rina David speaks to more than 300 women in Negros Occ. Multi Purpose Gym during the International Women's Day. (PIA6-LOL)

Bayani Challenge 2013 Marian Rose Barcebal of the Department of Education Division of Antique reads out stories to elementary pupils of Barangays Barangbang, Trinidad and Baladjay in the the Municipality of San Remigio, Antique, during the five-day Bayani Challenge 2013 where 400 students from various schools in Antique gathered in the said Municipality to do volunteer work in the conduct of school refurbishing, greening, house build, paraisong pambata and health mission activities. (T.Villavert/PIA 6)

Provincial Environment Management Office Head Atty. Wilfred Ramon Peñalosa (right, with mic), with Community Environment and Natural Resources-Kabankalan’s Forester Ace Santocildes, discusses the World Water Day celebration in an environment forum during the Center for Environmental Initiatives (CEI) regular meeting at the Provincial Capitol. (EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (Tesda) representative Nilla Fidellaga reports to Senator Loren Legarda the skills training availed by women from Mandaue City, Cebu during a dialogue in the public market. (mbcn/FCC/PIA7-Cebu)

Frat members from Alpha Kappa Rho (AKRHO), led by Noel Mallari, were among those who responded to the Bayani Challenge 2013 in Barangay Magsaysay in Talibon, Bohol. These fratmen wielded crowbars, shovels, bolos and pick mattocks to the 5-day marathon community building project. (mbcn/ECB/PIA7-Bohol)

Volunteer workers and Maasin City Emergency Rescue Team join hands in the construction of handwashing labatory at the elementary school in Barangay Cagnituan, Maasin City on the 3rd day of Gawad Kalinga (GK) Bayani Challenge. (PIA8-SoLeyte)

Tanay Mayor Rafael Tanjuatco, former Rizal Governor Rebecca "Nini" Ynares, Rizal 2nd District Congressman Isidro Rodriguez Jr. and Vice Mayor Jaime Vista look on as a local priest from Tanay officiates the blessing of the new Tanay Municipal Hall. (GG-PIA4A)

The start of the house construction during the Bayani Challenge 2013 on March 23 at the Gawad Kalinga Friendship Village in Barangay Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (PIA Cam. Norte)

The house construction during the Bayani Challenge 2013 on March 23 at the Gawad Kalinga Friendship Village, Barangay Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (PIA Cam. Norte)

The Philippines through the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Bureau of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development (BMSMED) hosts the 36th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Small and Medium Enterprises Working Group (SMEWG) meeting from March 13 to 14, 2013 at the New World Hotel in Makati City. In this photo, BMSMED Officer-in-Charge Jerry T. Clavesillas together with Bureau of Domestic Trade (BDT) Director Rhodora M. Leaño, Bureau of Export Trade Promotion (BETP) Director Senen M. Perlada, Office of Policy Research (OPR) Director Maria Lourdes Yaptinchay, and Liaison Office for Legislative Affairs (LOLA) Officer-In-Charge Abigail Zurita pose with representatives from Australia, Canada, the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, the United States, and Viet Nam. On observer status are representatives from Costa Rica and Macau, China. During this meeting, member economies shared their best practices and report on new projects related three priority areas: building management capability, entrepreneurship, and innovation; financing; and business environment, market access and internationalization. (DTI-PRO)

Leyte Vice Governor Florante Cayunda delivers his bayanihan message before the more than 300 community builders and partners of the Gawad Kalinga (GK) Bayani Challenge in Bato, Leyte. Leyte is one of the 33 provinces of the Bayanihan Challenge conducted nationwide from March 23 to 27 which aims to rally 100,000 volunteers who will build duplex houses, farms, health missions and other activities. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Bato Leyte municipal administrator Roderick Ramses welcomes guest and participants to the Gawad Kalinga Bayanihan Challenge 2013, in behalf of Mayor Nathaniel Gertos, during the kick-off ceremony held at the Bato Bay Walk, Bato Leyte, March 23. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

President Aquino talks to the passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 4 during his inspection of the facilities to ensure that security measures are in place for the expected heavy turn out of passengers this Holy week. (EPC/PIA-NCR)

1Lt. Mayleen Sagadraca, administrative officer of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics (G4), 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army, urges young ladies who want to join the AFP, to go ahead and share their individual potential to the organization and to the people. (PIA)

Gawad Kalinga Bayani Challenge volunteers prepare the children in Barangay Cagnituan for circumcission on March 25, as one of the acitivites of the 5-day Bayani Challenge held in Maasin City. A stretching exercise, participated not only by the children but also their parents & the Maasin City Emergency Rescue Team members, before the start of the medical-dental mission. (PIA8-SoLeyte)

PIA weekly Media Forum in celebration of Women's Month with P/Supt Christine Sorosa-Tan, chief of police of Molave, Zamboanga del Sur and 1Lt. Mayleen Sagadraca, administrative officer of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics (G4), 1st ID, PA as guests. (PIA)

Volunteers from the business sector, Human Nature (in green shirts) led by Nonette Bolo, donate 100 pieces of hollow blocks that were used to start in contructing the walls of the soon to rise houses. As this happens, Gawad Kalinga beneficiaries still continue praying for generous hearts to spare a few of their blessings and time to help them realize their dream houses. (mbcn/ECB/PIA7-Bohol)

Dr. Antonio Paraiso, program manager, Renal Disease Control Program (REDCOP) dicusses the importance of urinalysis and the 10 clinical syndromes in Neprology during the training on non-communicable diseases (NCD) to doctors and nurses held recently at Hotel Guillermo, Pagadian City. (PIA)

A government dentist performs tooth extraction at the convergence medical outreach in Sta. Fe, New Corella, Davao del Norte. (nobags)

Bilang bahagi ng pagbibigay parangal sa mahahalagang nagawa ng mga kababaihan may 17 na mga Batanguena ang binigyang parangal sa isinagawang awarding of Batanguena achievers sa SM City Batangas noong ika-18 ng Marso,2013. Isa si Governor Vilma Santos Recto sa tumanggap ng parangal sa larangan ng serbisyo publiko. Binuksan din ang isang photo gallery sa loob ng naturang mall kung saan makikita ang mga larawan at kontribusyon ng mga Batanguenang pinarangalan sa lalawigan. (Photo: Batangas Province PIO/caption: Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas)

Builders and volunteers of the house build segment of Bayani Challenge 2013 in San Remigio, Cebu, shakes to the unity dance. (mbcn/FCC/PIA7-Cebu)

Members of the district motorists assistance team of the Department of Public Works and Highways - Biliran District Engineering Office (DPWH-BDEO) man the DPWH motorist assistance center located at corner Castin and P. Inocentes Sts in Naval, Biliran. The district motorist assistance teams under the Lakbay Alalay program was deployed by DPWH to assist motorists during the observance of the Holy Week from March 24 until April 1, 2013. (rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Leyte Vice Governor Florante Cayunda (in blue polo shirt, left photo) in a boodle fight with builders guest and partners of the Gawad Kalinga Bayanihan Challenge 2013 after the kick off ceremony held at Bato Bay Walk, Bato Leyte, March 23. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario (on mic), Mayor Nestor Alcoran, 1003rd IB Commander Buenaventura Pascual and Vice Gov. Victorio Suaybaguio Jr., among other officials, share the joy of serving the health and social needs of the indigent community during convergence outreach in the distant timberland barangay of Sta. Fe, New Corella, Davao del Norte. (nobags)

Volunteers participate at the start of the "house build" during the opening of Bayani Challenge 2013 on March 23 at the Gawad Kalinga Friendship Village, Barangay Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (PIA Cam. Norte)

DavNor Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario expresses confidence in the heightened security measures put up by the Commission on Elections to make the May 2013 automated elections clean, orderly and honest. (nobags)

President Aquino climbs into the MV Princess of the South docked in North Harbor during his inspection at the port to ensure that security measures are in place for thousand of passengers expected to go to their provinces for the Holy week vacation. The President personally inspected the ship and terminal's facilities and the departure of the passengers aboard. DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya (lower right) accompanied the President during the inspection. (EPC/PIA-NCR)

Vice President Jejomar C. Binay receives Malaysian Ambassador Dato' Mohd Zamri Bin Mohd Kassim at the Coconut Palace Monday, March 25, 2013. Binay thanked the ambassador for the Malaysian government's decision to allow Philippine officials access to Filipinos arrested in Sabah. The Vice President also said the ambassador told him that Manuel Amalilio may be extradited to the Philippines even if there is no formal bilateral extradition treaty between Manila and Kuala Lumpur. However, he said Amalilio, who is in a Sabah prison, has to serve two thirds of his two year sentence in Malaysia before he can be extradited. (OVP MEDIA/PIA-NCR)

President Aquino listens to Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Jose Angel Honrado as the latter shows the samples of prohibited items displayed at the airport lobby. Aquino, on Tuesday, March 26, inspects NAIA Terminal 4 to ensure that security measures are in place for the Holy week break. Also in photo is DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya. (EPC/PIA-NCR)

President Aquino answers questions from the media during his inspection at the Manila North Harbor. With the President are PCOO Secretary Herminio Coloma, MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino and DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya. Also in photo (partly hidden) are LTO Chair Virginia Torres, PNP Chief Alan Purisima and NCRPO Chief Leonardo Espina. (EPC/AKG/PIA-NCR)

Isang Bayan, Isang Bayanihan: A professor (in green shit) and students from Centennial Academy of the Blessed Trinity in General Trias doing the finishing touches in one of the houses being constructed in Barangay Hugo Perez in Trece Martires City. Said barangay is the site of the Bayani Challenge which started last March 23 and will end on March 27. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite)

GK Provincial Coordinator Honorio Estravez signs the MOA for the Gawad Kalinga (GK) projects after the opening ceremony of the Bayani Challenge 2013 on March 23 at the GK Friendship Village, barangay Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (PIA Cam. Norte)

Women volunteers show their strength in constructing homes in the 2013 Bayani Challenge Home Build Activity at Barangay Cabugao, New Lucena, Iloilo. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Youth volunteers in Maasin City showcase their talents through mural at Maasin City Central School's walls focusing on the GK Bayani challenge theme dubbed as "Isang Bayan, Isang Bayanihan." (PIA 8 Southern Leyte)

The pineapple farm build during day I of Bayani Challenge 2013 on March 23 at the GK Friendship Village, barangay Laniton, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. (PIA Cam. Norte)

Flordelis E. Jackson (standing left), provincial information center manager of Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Biliran talks to Mario Robenta (standing right), general manager of Naval Water District (NWD) during the World Water Day celebration held at the Naval State University (NSU), Naval, Biliran, March 22.The World Water Day celebration held in NSU was attended by the officials and employees of the different water districts in Eastern Visayas. (rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Villager beneficiaries prepare lunch for the volunteers of the Bayani Challenge 2013 in Barangay Magsaysay in Talibon, Bohol during the Day 1 of the 5-day event. (mbcn/RAHC/PIA7-Bohol)

Mark C. Maliksi of PIA-Calapan City signs in a registration form of volunteers for Bayani Challenge in barangay Mayabig, Baco, Oriental Mindoro during the coordination meeting with leaders of Pilipinas Natin and Gawad Kalinga on March 25. (Photo by LCCueto- PIA4B, Calapan)

This is a typical house occupied by Mangyan tribes in barangay Mayabig, Baco, Oriental Mindoro. They are the beneficiaries of the housing projects being constructed in the area by Pilipinas Natin and Gawad Kalinga through Bayani Challenge on March 23-27. (Photo by: MCMaliksi, PIA4B, Calapan City)

Tinanggap ng Oriental Mindoro, sa pangunguna ni Gov. Alfonso V. Umali Jr. (nasa gitna) kasama ng ibang mga pamahalaang lokal, ang mga parangal sa katatapos na 3rd Recognition Rites for Best Local Health Implementers ng Department of Health - Center for Health Development Region 4-B kamakailan. Kabilang sa mga parangal na natanggap ay ang mga sumusunod: Most Improved Province on Annual Parasitic Incidence for Malaria; Most Improved Province on Households with Access to Safe Water; Best Performing Province on PhilHealth Enrolment; Performing Province on LGU Investment for Health; Most Number of TB DOTS Facilities Certified + P100,000 cash prize; Most Supportive LGU in NTP Implementation + P100,000 cash prize; Oriental Mindoro BHW Federation, Inc. - 1st Place Performance-Based Incentives for BHW Federation plus P300,000 cash prize. (Photo by: CPRSD/MCMaliksi/TBO - PIA4B, Calapan City)

Junior Sedo, one of the Mangyan beneficiaries of the houses that will be built by volunteers of Bayani Challenge in barangay Mayabig, Baco, Oriental Mindoro from March 23 to 27, expresses his gratitude and perception about the ongoing housing projects undertaken by Pilipinas Natin and Gawad Kalinga in their community. Also in photo is Calapan Infocen Manager Luis Cueto (interviewer) and the Mangyan children. (Photo by: MCMaliksi-PIA4B,Calapan City)

Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo during his speech as guest-of-honor during the formal opening of the 204-room Park Inn by Radisson Davao in Davao City last March 22

Bato Leyte municipal mayor Nathaniel Gertos (left) gave his Bayanihan message to the residents, volunteers and participants of the Gawad Kalinga Bayanihan Challenge, Bayani challenge dubbed; “Isang Bayan Isang Bayanihan” conducted nationwide in 33 provinces, to build houses and farm for the recipients of Brgy. Sto. Niño Bato Leyte, March 25. (Raul S. Tiozon PIA-8)

Four brand new trucks were acquired by the provincial government for the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO). The funds to purchase the trucks came from the Performance Challenge Fund awarded to provincial government which passed assessment and conferred a Seal of Good Housekeeping. Attending the blessing ceremony of the trucks are (from right) PIO Daisy Ann Atrero, PDRRMO Executive Officer Atty. Winston Gonzalez, DILG Provincial Director Mario Daquer, and Rev. Fr. Felipe Torrecampo. (Photo by: Noriel Nueca, PIO)

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines - Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas and Muntinlupa Chapter hosted the “Know Your Parañaque Candidates Forum” on March 22, 2013 at The Village Sports Club in Brgy. BF Homes. Candidates for public office were given the opportunity to discuss their service platforms. In photo (L-R): Parañaque Councilors Rico Golez and Benjo Bernabe, Vice-Mayor Gus Tambunting, IBP-PPLM Incoming President Atty. Emma Jularbal, former Mayor Joey Marquez, 1st Dist. Rep Edwin Olivarez, City Councilors Eric Olivarez and Edwin Benzon. (P’QUE-PIO/PIA-NCR)

Dr. Felicidad N. Altalaguire, Earth Hour 2013 Proponent and Dean of the College of Engineering of the Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod leads the pledges of commitment of the different environment advocacy groups represented by SM City Bacolod Assistant Mall Manager Julia Javellana, a Belgian mall-goer (who was enticed by the idea and the activity) and Department of Energy’s Engr. Rey Maleza during the Earth Hour 2013 celebration at the SM City Bacolod, March 23. (EAD-PIA6 Photo)

A kid volunteer from Assumption Iloilo paints an old school chair from one of the classrooms of Wari-Wari Elementary School, New Lucena, Iloilo. The School-Build Activity is one of the hometown activities of the 2013 Bayani Challenge. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Boy Montelibano (left) of the Gawad Kalinga emphasizes to PIA Antique Information Center Manager Margie Gadian and Major Marvin de los Santos, Executive Officer of the 82nd Infantry Divivision, Philippine Army, the objective of the conduct of the Bayani Challenge 2013 in San Remigio, Antique which is to raise youth’s spirit of volunteerism in order to make the youth become responsible in helping the community’s poor families to have a better future. Also shown at the background are the volunteer-students working on their plans for the five-day Hometown Build Activity. (T.Villavert/PIA6)

A PIA-XI employee (right) assists a skilled laborer during the Bayani Challenge 2013 in Compostela, Compostela Valley province. The men and women of the Philippine Information Agency participated in the home building activity held last March 23. (Rudolph Alama)

Association of Nutrition Action Officer (ANAO) president and Mandaluyong First Lady Mechie Abalos (with mic) talks to parents on the importance of encouraging children to be physically active and preparing proper diet for them. (RJB/LFB/PIA-NCR)

The National Nutrition Council of the National Capital Region (NNC-NCR) partnered with the Association of Nutrition Action Officers (ANAO) for the advocacy walk aimed to create awreness on the importance of healthy diet and physical activity at the Quezon Memorial Circle on Marcy 22, 2013. The event was participated by parents, children and health service providers from the 17 local government units in Metro Manila. (RJB/LFB-PIA-NCR)

President Aquino delivers his speech at the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines' (CAAP) 5th anniversary celebration held at the CAAP Covered Court in Pasay City, March 25. Also in photo are DoTC Sec. Joseph Emilio Abaya (middle) and Lt. Gen. William Hotchkiss III, Director General of CAAP (right) (EPC/PIA-NCR)

Regional and local officials headed by Department of Agriculture Cordillera Regional Exec. Dir. Marilyn Sta. Catalina (4th from left) and Kalinga Gov. Jocel Baac (3rd from left), along with farmer leaders and representatives show their painted palms after placing their ‘palm marks’ in the “I support the 2013 National Year of Rice” tarpaulin (behind the officials) manifesting their pledge in support to the advocacy and campaign to achieve self-sufficiency in rice in the country with the theme: "Sapat na Bigas kaya ng Pinas." (Photo by Gigi Dumallig, PIA-CAR, Kalinga)

Members of the Inter-Agency Oplan Red Plate Task Force inspect one of the more than 40 government vehicles flagged down during the operation of the Task Force in Iloilo on March 23 to check on the compliance with the requirements on the proper use of “Red Plate” vehicles. (PIA 6/EJB/JSC)

Aklan Police Provincial Police (APPO) Acting Provincial Director PSSupt. Pedrito M. Escarilla (with spade) pours cement to cover the lowered time capsule during the ground breaking ceremony for the construction of the Aklan Youth Center at Barangay Nalook, Kalibo, Aklan. The center is designed to house at least 20 Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) in Aklan - one of the projects of the provincial government through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in coordination with the Provincial Council for the Protection of Children (PCPC). (PIA/VGVillanueva)

Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez S. Marquez delivers his message during the Ground Breaking Ceremony for the construction of the Aklan Youth Center, a two-storey building where Aklan's Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) will be housed. Marquez said the Youth Center to be put up will be the first of its kind in Western Visayas which could house 20 boys at a time. All the needs of the would-be clients will be provided by the provincial government through funds earmarked by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in support of the Provincial Council for the Protection of Children (PCPC). (PIA/VGVillanueva)

OPlan Red Plate Team Leader Evangeline Nunal (center) of the Office of the Ombudsman, Region 6 questions the driver (Left) of a government vehicle which is parked near a business center in San Jose, Antique last Saturday, March 23. The Oplan Red Plate Task Force recently conducted an operation in the Municipalities of San Jose, Sibalom and Hamtik to intensify the campaign against improper use of government vehicles especially on weekends or holidays. The Oplan Red Plate taskforce operation is spearheaded by the Ombudsman Visayas, Region 6 with partner agencies- the Commission on Audit, Land Transportation Office, Civil Service Commission, Philippine National Police and the Philippine Information Agency.(TVillavert/PIA 6)

Policemen of the Antique Provincial Police Office set up the Oplan Red Plate checkpoint signage in a selected street in San Jose, Antique during the March 23 operation. The Oplan Red Plate taskforce operation is headed by the Ombudsman Visayas, Region 6. Partner agencies include the Commission on Audit, Land Transportation Office, Civil Service Commission, Philippine National Police and the Philippine Information Agency. The objective of the activity is to intensify the campaign against improper use of government vehicles, especially on weekends or holidays. (T.Villavert/PIA 6)

The province of Kalinga and Tabuk City hosted the Regional Convention of Staple Producers and regional launching of the 2013 National Year of Rice from March 20 to 21 with the theme: “ Sapat na Bigas Kaya ng Pinas.” Gracing the event are Department of Agriculture Cordillera Regional Technical Director for Operations Danilo Daguio, Fr. Joker Gamatero, DA-RFO-CAR Regional Exec. Dir. Marilyn Sta. Catalina, Gov. Jocel Baac, Tabuk City Administrator Lawrence Bayongan, National Irrigation Administration Manager Engr. John Socalo, Kalinga OIC Agriculturist Engr. Domingo Bakilan. (Photo Gigi Dumallig, PIA-CAR, Kalinga)

Department of Agriculture -Cordillera Regional Exec. Dir. Marilyn Sta. Catalina (right) and Gov. Jocel Baac (2nd from right) lead the toasting of rice wine for the success of the Food Staples Sufficiency Program (FSSP) which is geared at producing more of the major staples like rice, corn and root crops while advocating the decrease in rice wastage among consumers to strengthen national resiliency minimizing the impact of climate change on food security. (Photo Gigi Dumallig, PIA-CAR, Kalinga)

2012 National Rice Achiever Awardees of Tabuk City, headed by City Agriculturist Gilbert Cawis (right), were recognized during the Regional Convention of Staple Producers and regional launching of the 2013 National Year of Rice held from March 20 to 21 in Tabuk City, Kalinga with the theme “ Sapat na Bigas Kaya ng Pinas.” ( Gigi Dumallig, PIA-CAR, Kalinga)

Department of Health Region VII officials, led by Regional Director Dr. Asuncion Anden (w/mic), together with Cebu Provincial Health Officer Dr. Cristina Giango (far left) and National TB Program Nurse Coordinator Jocelyn Tabotabo (2nd from left) and Jail CSupt. Deogracias Tapayan (extreme right) discussing Tuberculosis (TB) as a prevailing disease in the Philippines during the Kapihan forum held March 25 at Sarrosa Hotel in Cebu to mark World TB Day. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

The wives of farmers in Brgy. San Miguel, San Remigio town in Cebu joined the Bayani Challenge volunteers in working on the farm build site which is part of the Bayani Challenge's 5-day volunteerism event. A total of 30 families in the farming village of San Miguel will benefit from the 30 homes being built by volunteers. (VVV/PIA CEBU)

Foreigners join the locals in volunteering for the Bayani Challenge event in San Remigio, Cebu where 30 houses are being built for farmers in Brgy. San Miguel. Thousands of local and international volunteers are participating in the 5-day event in San Remigio. (VVV/PIA CEBU)

Bayani Challenge volunteers building the 30 homes for families of farmers in Brgy. San Miguel, San Remigio in Cebu. Volunteers along with the housing beneficiaries formed a human chain to expedite the build work to make sure all 30 houses will be completed at the end of the 5-day event. (VVV/PIA CEBU)

Volunteer Rosita Campit of Intramuros, Manila and her two-month old baby, participate in this year's Bayani Challenge dubbed, "Isang Bayan, Isang Bayanihan" -- a five-day gathering to express our love for country and caring for the poor through building of homes, repairing schools, health missions and tree planting activities in Metro Manila. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan/PIA-NCR)

Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Livestock Davinio Catbagan (2nd L) and Office International des Epizooties (OIE) or World Organisation for Animal Health representative Agnes Poirier hold a box of rabies vaccines awarded by the OIE to the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) during a recent ceremonial turn-over. BAI was given 500,000 doses of rabies vaccines, 125,000 dog collars and advocacy materials including posters and flyers. (PIA) The event is part of the National Rabies Awareness Month and BAIS’s initiatives to fully eradicate rabies by 2020. Aside from the Philippines, OIE has provided vaccines to other Southeast Asian countries like Laos and Vietnam as part of its Highly Pathogenic and Emerging and Re-emerging Diseases in Asia (HPED) funded by the European Union. Also in photo are BAI Director Rubina Cresencio (right) and BAI OIC-Assistant Director Simeon Amurao Jr. (left). (Photo by Jose Lucas, DA-Information Service/PIA-NCR)

Women volunteers trooped to gather stones and lined it up in the site's pathways while others planted seedling to act as buffer to the soon to rise houses during Day 1 of the Bayani Challenge in Barangay Magsaysay in Talibon, Bohol on March 23. (PIA-Bohol/ECbongosia)

Assumption Iloilo Class 79 alumni and their children paint the old desks and chairs of Wari-Wari Elementary School after they chose to join the school build event of the Bayani Challenge 2013 in New Lucena, Iloilo, March 23. The municipality of New Lucena is one of the 37 sites for the 8th Bayani Challenge this year. (LAF/PIA6)

Free Farmers Federation chairman Pedro Aparece working on the roof of the communal comfort rooms for the use of volunteers a hundred meters from the build site in Barangay Magsaysay, Talibon, Bohol. (PIA-Bohol/ECBngosia)

Volunteers from Talibon engineering department started the lay-out of each of the 10 duplex houses which will soon rise in this site during Day 1 of the Bayani Challenge last March 23 in Barangay Magsaysay in Talibon, Bohol. (PIA7 Bohol)

Barangay officials from San Agustin, Talibon, Bohol were the first volunteers to arrive at the home build site at the slope of a hill around 9 in the morning on Day 1 of the Bayani Challenge in Barangay Magsaysay in Talibon, Bohol. (PIA-Bohol/ECBongosia)

Boholanos, some coming from as far as Tagbilaran City, rolled up their sleeves, endured the biting heat of the sun and shoveled dirt to realize somebody's dream house in Barangay Magsaysay in Talibon, Bohol during Day 1 of the Bayani Challenge 2013. (PIA-Bohol/ECBongosia)

Start of the five-day Bayani Challenge in Cadiz City. Mayor Patrick Escalante declares the Bayani Challenge open in Cadiz City, Negros Occ. that signals the start of a five-day community work, March 23-27, participated in by youths volunteers from all over the province. (PIA6-LOL)

Happy to be Bayani Challengers. Youth volunteers to Bayani Challenge in Cadiz City show their excitement in taking part in this biggest volunteering community work in Negros Occ. (PIA6-LOL)

Volunteers for the Farm Build construct a plant nursery at Barangay Cabugao, New Lucena, Iloilo. The Farm Build is one of the hometown activities for the 2013 Bayani Challenge. (LTP/PIA6 Iloilo)

Volunteers bury exposed water pipes leading to the build site in Barangay Magsaysay in Talibon town during Day 1 of the GK Bayani Challenge. (PIA-Bohol/ECBongosia)

Gawad Kalinga's Rey Balatero (standing) giving a brief orientation to the volunteers at the Free Farmers Federation building in Barangay Magsaysay in Talibon, Bohol during Day 1 of the Bayani Challenge 2013. (PIA-Bohol/ECBongosia)

Dr. Marvin Quilates, assistant focal person of regional organic farming gives an overview of the National Organic Agriculture Program to La Union farmers as one way of promoting food security in the province, during the launching of “Organic Agriculture Program” in San Fernando City recently hosted by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist. (MCA/MHH Photo by :Vic Villanueva)

Police Regional Office-7 Information Officer P/Supt Clifford Gairanod presents the preparations and measures adopted by the PRO-7 to achieve Security and Fair Elections (SAFE) in Central Visayas during the AGIO-7 General Assembly held at the PRO-7 Camp. (HFG/PIA 7)

The Naval Forces Northern Luzon and Disaster Emergencies Land Traffic Assistance Communicators Philippines Inc. (DELTACOM) sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on Tuesday, March 19 to enhance and strengthen the conduct of disaster-related activities in Northern Luzon. The MOA signing was entered between Norlito J. Tabugan, DELTACOM national vice- president for operation, DELTACOM President Melchor V. Abriam; Commodore Nodolfo V. Tejada, commander of NFNL and Rommel Jude G. Ong, deputy commander of NFNL. (MCA/MHerrera Photo by Vic Villanueva)

COMELEC-7 Regional Director Atty. Efraim Bag-id (right) briefs members of the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO) - 7 on the Election Rules and Guidelines and how AGIO-7 could work together to help achieve peaceful and orderly mid-term polls during the recent AGIO-7 General Assembly held at the PRO-7 Camp Sergio Osmeña, Jones Avenue, Cebu City. With him is Dale Mark Antonio of PAG-Ibig North Branch, Vice President of AGIO-7.(HFG/PIA 7)

Members of the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO) – 7 listen intently to a briefing from Comelec 7 on Election Rules and Guidelines held at the PRO-7 Camp Sergio Osmeña. Jones Avenue, Cebu City. (HFG/PIA-7)

Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano (standing) holds consultation dialogue with jeepney and tricycle drivers during his visit to Dagupan City. Cayetano stressed that senators represent the people and should be consulted about their concerns so that public officials can plan accordingly. (PIA-Photo/Roland Naoe)

Education Specialist Pedro Jose Cudal of Department of Education (DepEd-1) reminds public school heads, teachers and other DepEd personnel to avoid collecting graduation fees or any kind of contribution for their graduation rites noting that no extravagant special attire or extraordinary venue for the ceremonies should be required in response to DepEd Order No. 9 series of 2013, during ‘Ammuentayo’ radio program over DZNL Aksyon Radyo in San Fernando City. (MCA/MHH Photo by:Vic Villanueva)

Commodore Nodolfo V. Tejada, commander of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon underscores their commitment to provide responsive, competent and excellent service to the people along with their collaboration with the Disaster Emergencies Land Traffic Assistance Communicators Philippines Inc., during their MOA signing on March 19 at the naval station in San Fernando City. (MCA/MHerrera Photo by Vic Villanueva)

(l-r) Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara, Don Salvador Benedicto Mayor Marxlen Dela Cruz and GSIS Chairman Daniel “Bitay” Lacson, assisted by GSIS Senior Vice President Dionisio Ebdane Jr., sign the Memorandum of Agreement for the expanded membership coverage for the town during the Stakeholders’ Dialogue at L’Fisher Hotel March 22. (EAD-PIA6 photo)

Anothet highlight of the Bayani Challenge 2013 in New Lucena, Iloilo was the boodle fight where volunteers partake foods piled on top of banana leaves laid out on long tables at the town's auditorium after the opening program, March 23. (LAF/PIA6)

Volunteers from various groups, organizations, schools and barangays of New Lucena, Iloilo take part in the construction of the Gawad Kalinga houses at Barangay Cabugao, New Lucena, Iloilo. The Home Build is a major hometown activity of the 2013 Bayani Challenge (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Felipe Bartolome, one of the five oldest Government Service Insurance System pensioners at 99 years old in Negros Occidental, huddles with GSIS Chairman Daniel “Bitay” Lacson and GSIS President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara during the GSIS Stakeholders’ Dialogue at the L’Fisher Hotel here. (EAD-PIA6 photo)

The 2.2 hectare home build site at the slope of a hill in Barangay Magsaysay, 18 kilometers from the town proper. At least 10 houses and community centers will be built in five days as hundreds of volunteers give poor farmers of Magsaysay, Talibon their most dreamed of houses through Gawad Kalinga Bohol. (PIA-Bohol/ECBongosia)

Usec Eduardo D. Del Rosario, administrator, Office of Civil Defense and Executive Director for NDRRMC (in black vest) and Governor Manoling C. Ortega (in stripe polo), lead the heads of the different beneficiary agencies in the recent groundbreaking of the La Union Government Center extension lot granted by the Provincial Government of La Union to include OCD, BIR-RDO3, BOT, PVAO, OWWA, POEA, Parole and Probation, LTO-LU District Office, Bureau of Plant Industry, CSC-La Union Provincial Office. (Caption: MPAquino / Photo: VVillanueva Jr.-PIA1 La Union)

About 800 students and faculty members of the Sta Lucia National High School participate in the school-based tsunami/earthquake drill conducted by OCD-RDRRMC-9 last Friday, March 15, 2013 at Sta Lucia District, Pagadian City. (PIA9)

Aiming for a unified interventions, the provincial government holds a coordination meeting with various agencies and international NGO's requesting all key players who are giving assistance to typhoon-affected municipalities. Strong convergence and coordination is needed in order to avoid duplication of services, over or under concentration of assistance, thus, preventing the waste of resources. This meeting was held in Davao City facilitated by the Mindanao Development Authority. (PIA 11)

Sta. Lucia National High Students and teachers in Pagadian City evacuates their school during a tsunami/earthquake drill led by OCD-RDRRMC-9. (PIA 9)

The 2nd leg on information forum with local officials, sectoral representative and affected families was held on March 13 in the Municipal Gym, New Bataan, Comval. The Makigsayud: An Information forum is a project of the Province, Municipal IM, PIA, UN-OCHA and other agencies. (PIA)

Zamboanga del Sur 2nd District Congresswoman Aurora Cerilles encourages women to exercise their rights and not just remain in their traditional role as a wife or as a mother during the celebration of Women's Month held at Dumalinao gymnasium last Friday, March 15, 2013. (PIA)

The Building A of the new Dr. Damian J. Reyes Provincial Hospital which has 40 beds and stands in 1,710 sq. mts floor area. The inauguration last month was graced by Health Secretary Enrique Ona. (Photo by MLagran/PIA4B)

About 1,500 members of the Rural Improvement Club-Women Empowerment in Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur participated in the Women's Month celebration on March 15, 2013. (PIA)

The Department of Health (DOH) holds last of a series of public consultations on RA 10354 Responsible Parenthood-Reproductive Health Law in Century Park Hotel, Manila on March 8, 2013. (PIA)

ComVal joins the nation in celebrating the Rabies Awareness Month. The Provincial Veterinary and Health Teams conducted orientation, education, registration and rabies vaccination of dogs in Manat, Nabunturan on Mach 5 and in Brgy. Bongabong, Pantukan on March 14, 2013. (Dodong Renoblas/ IDS ComVal)

The raffle for a cause initiated by the provincial government for its rebuilding turns into a greater blessing as Sandvik Tamrock Phils., Inc. Taguig City, who won the 1st prize of a unit of a Mitsubishi Strada Pick up, gives back the prize to help deliver services to the victims of typhoon Pablo. Vice Pres. Girish Hebbani who personally came to the capitol announced this as they were given plaque of appreciation and special token made from debris in New Bataan. (A. Dayao/IDS Comval)

Bilang bahagi ng pagdiriwang ng buwan ng mga kababaihan, isang forum ukol sa RH Bill at Kasambahay Law ang isinagawa sa Provincial Auditurium kung saan dinaluhan ito ng iba't ibang grupo ng mga kababaihan sa lalawigan ng Batangas. Nagsilbing panauhing pandangal si Governor Vilma Santos-Recto na isinusulong ang women empowerment at pagpapatatag ng samahan ng mga kababaihan upang patuloy na maitaas ang antas ng mga ito sa lipunan. (Photo: Louie Hernandez-PIO Province/caption: Bhaby P. de Castro-PIA Batangas)

One of the breakout sessions on the first day of the 27th CACCI convention attended by over a hundred delegates from Asia Pacific at Radisson Blu, Mandaue City, Cebu. During the sessions, it was reiterated how women in the Philippines are admired by their counterparts in the Asia Pacific. (VVV/PIA CEBU)

Biliran Congressman Rogelio J. Espina (at the podium) speaks before the more than 2,000 women in Biliran province during the 19th women's congress held at the Nipa Hut located in the provincial capitol compound, March 21. Also in photo are (L-R) Flordeliza Trani, Biliran provincial social welfare and development officer, Dr. Cecille M. Espina, president, provincial council for women's welfare (PCWWI), Biliran Governor Gerardo J, Espina, Jr., Atty. Ana Luz Cristal, president, Women Involve in Nation Building (WIN), Nina Lojo, director, WIN, Gina Maria Enage, board member, 2nd district and other women leaders in Biliran. (rvictoria.PIA 8 Biliran)

Philippine Information Agency 8 Director Olive Tiu (right standing) explains this year's Womens Month theme to the barangay women’s clubs presidents and officials of the 54 barangays in Tanauan during the simple gathering in line with the Women’s Month celebration held in Tanauan Leyte, March 20, 2013. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Pinangunahan nina Governor Vilma Santos Recto, Talisay Mayor Zenaida Mendoza at Department of Education Schools Division Superintendent Donato Bueno ang ground breaking ceremony ng itatayong Talisay School of Agriculture sa Brgy. Aya. Kabilang ang School of Agriculture sa tatlong paaralan sa bayang ito na pinasinayaan ng gobernadora noong ika-13 ng Marso 2013. (Batangas PIO photo; L. Hernandez/ E. Zabarte)

The 3rd Councilor Carl V. Lopez Football Festival kicked off in Bacolod City National High School, 80 teams are competing for the football festival. (PIO/PIA/CD photo)

Team Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Bicol, with Regional Executive Director Gilbert Gonzales, offers a tree for the Albay Movement as a show of solidarity. In a message during the soft launching (March 2, 2013), Director Gonzales puts emphasis that the regional office is one with the provincial government in its effort to raise the level of awareness of Albayanos to a new level of eco-consciousness. (Photo by Jessel Basanta)

Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Minda Calaguian-Cruz (second to the right) and PTIC Commercial Counsellor to Singapore Glenn G. Peñaranda (left) accompanied a Singaporean Business Delegation led by Abdul Rohm Sarip (second from left), President of the Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Vice Chairman of the Singapore Business Federation and Rangarajan Narayanamohan (right), Chairman of the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Vice Chairman of the Singapore Business Federation. This mission is composed of a 14-member business delegation that intends to explore business opportunities in the Philippines. It was organized by the Philippine Embassy in Singapore and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Singapore through the DTI capital office and the Board of Investments (BOI) and supported by the Singapore Business Federation, Philippines-Singapore Business Council and the Subic-Clark Alliance for Development. Cruz is the head of mission and Peñaranda, mission coordinator. Also in photo is Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Josephine C. Romero (center) and Foreign Trade Service Corps Coordinating Officer. (DTI-PRO)

Cebu's San Remigio Mayor Jay Olivar (front row in red shirt) grooving to the Unity Dance during the opening ceremony of Bayani Challenge, Saturday, March 23. A total of 1,260 volunteers signed up for the first day of the 5-day event, who will build houses and refurbish schools. (VVV/PIA7 CEBU)

Gawad Kalinga Executive Director Jose Luis Oquiñena (far right) helps build houses at the Bayani Challenge 2013 build site in Brgy. San Miguel, San Remigio, Cebu. Thousands of local and international volunteers joined the Bayani Challenge in Cebu. (VVV/PIA CEBU)

Police officers and chiefs from Cebu police stations discuss the security measures being undertaken to secure the conduct of clean, honest, accurate, meaningful and peaceful elections this coming May during the "Talakayan Sa Isyung Pulis" (TSIP) Forum at the Police Regional Office, Cebu. The forum is moderated by PIA-7 Regional Executive Director Fayette C. Rinen and Wen Celen of Radyo ng Bayan, Cebu. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Representatives from the Cebu business sector listen to the panel discussion on how ready the country is for inclusive growth. The panel is led by Cabinet Sec. Jose Rene Almendras who said the Philippine government has paved the way for the private sector in the country to do business with those at the base of the economic pyramid. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

New Lucena, Iloilo Mayor Liecel Mondejar-Seville (in yellow shirt) leads the house build activity of the Bayani Challenge 2013 in the GK Village in Brgy. Cabugao, New Lucena on March 23. The event which will end on March 27 is participated in by more than 3,000 volunteers and targets to build 25 houses. (LAF-PIA6)

Three lovely foreign ladies join thousands of local volunteers for this year's Bayani Challenge in San Remigio, Cebu. A total of 30 houses are now being built in Brgy. San Miguel for 30 identified families. (VVV/PIA7 Cebu)

Students of the Sta Lucia National High School, Pagadian City station themselves at a designated evacuation area during the tsunami/earthquake drill conducted last Friday, March 15, 2013. (PIA)

It's Day 1 of this year's Bayani Challenge. Teams are all eager to make a difference in their Bayani Challenge areas. The event takes place in 37 locations nationwide with volunteers and friends coming from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. There are teams coming from US, Singapore and Canada too. This is a five-day gathering of volunteers where Bayanihan and Love for country are showcased. The event takes place from March 23 to 27. (Photo courtesy of BAYANI CHALLENGE FB page)

Undersecretary Eduardo del Rosario, National Disaster Risk Reduction Executive Director, discusses the state of Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) in the country at the National Summit on DRRM for Local Chief Executives at the PICC, Pasay City Wednesday, March 20. Del Rosario said all local government units should integrate DRRM plans to reduce casualties in their area caused by natural disasters. (Photo by: Emver P. Cortez/PIA-NCR)

Volunteers pose along with their beneficiaries in a 2009 photo of a Bayani Challenge (BC) event in Sulu. Bayani Challenge is a 5-day gathering of volunteers where Bayanihan and Love for country are showcased through building homes, repairing schools, health missions, tree-planting, climate change mitigation, games for children and other activities. This year's BC opens on March 23, Saturday in more than 30 provinces. (Photo courtesy of pilipinasnatin.org.)

A treat for all Bayani Challenge volunteers after a hard day's work under the heat of the sun! Firehose bath is both for the young and young at heart! Cause nation-building is fun and inspiring at the same time! (credit: Bayani Challenge FB)

Larena town's Women’s Federation on their way to San Juan town to join with other women from the rest of the municipalities in Siquijor province marking the Women’s Month. Special guest Bais City Mayor Karen Villanueva talking on the theme “Kababaihan: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan.” (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Enrique Villanueva and Larena Municipal Link officer Jade Hazel Ann Pestillos (right) giving constant reminders on the responsibilities of the Pantawid Pamilya program beneficiaries in every start of the monthly Family Development Sessions. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor).

Coronation Night of Gng. Dipolog 2013 with Lorna H. Pableo (second from the left) from barangay Sta. Filomena, Dipolog City hailed as winner. (Mary May A. Abellon, PIA-IX)

Department of Trade and Industry Iloilo Provincial Director Wilhelm Malones raises the glass CSC Seal of Excellence during the awarding ceremony held at the DTI 6 Audio-Visual Hall, Iloilo City, March 21. Joining him are CSC Commissioner Robert Martinez, CSC 6 Director IV Rodolfo Encajonado, DTI 6 Director Dominic Abad and some of the DTI-Iloilo staff (LAF/PIA6)

Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin delivers his keynote speech at the National Summit on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) for local chief executives on March 20 at the PICC, Pasay City. The convention aims to discuss climate change adaptation and state of DRRM in the Philippines. Present in the event are Department of Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Austere Panadero and NDRRMC Chief Eduardo del Rosario. (Photo by: Emver P. Cortez/PIA-NCR)

Key businessmen in Cebu sit down with government officials led by Cabinet Sec. Jose Rene Almendras (seated, 3rd from right) during the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) Inclusive Growth Forum to discuss how ready the country is for inclusive growth. The panel discussion was in line with PBSP's 25th Visayas Annual Membership Meeting held Mar. 20 in Cebu City. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur Mayor William Ace Cerilles says women is very significant not only in building a family, but a nation as a whole, during the women's month celebration held at the town's sports complex. (PIA)

Bayani Challengers pose in a 2009 photo of an event in Sulu. Bayani Challenge (BC) is a 5-day gathering of volunteers where Bayanihan and Love for country are showcased through building homes, repairing schools, health missions, tree-planting, climate change mitigation, games for children and other activities. This year's BC opens on Saturday, March 23 in, more than 30 provinces in time for the Holy Week. (pilipinasnatin.org /Lyndon Plantilla)

To while away their waiting hours, Pantawid Pamilya Program children beneficiaries in Cang-apa, Larena, Siquijor find time dancing and singing as they waited for their parents attending the Family Development Session. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ District Head-Negros Area Zosimo Briones and Head of the Corporate Affairs Department Nelson Cabahug (3rd and 4th from left) together with Ceneco General Manager Sulpicio Lagarde Jr. (right) turn over three sets of computer units, monitors, printers and computer tables to Cabatangan Elementary School headed by School Principal Nemia Laud (5th from left) witnessed by school and barangay officials. (EAD-PIA6 Photo)

Capiz Gov. Victor A. Tanco Sr. calls for the conservation and preservation of water sources citing its importance on all known forms of life during the World Water Day 2013 celebration at the People’s Park, Baybay Beach in Roxas City. (PIA Capiz photo/A. Lumaque)

CSC Commissioner Robert S. Martinez congratulates the DTI 6 offices in Capiz, Iloilo and Negros Occidental for bagging the Citizen’s Satisfaction Center (CSC) Seal of Excellence during the awarding ceremony held at the DTI 6 Audio-Visual Hall, Iloilo City, March 21. (LAF/PIA6)

Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries listening to PIA information officer Rizalie Calibo giving a lecture on Active Citizenship and Voters’ Education as the topic for the month’s Family Development Session. (RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)

Enrique Villanueva, municipal councilor and Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement (CCRM) member Belinda Inao (far right) talks about nurturing a family in a Christian way to active citizenship in one of the monthly Family Development Sessions (FDS) for Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in barangay Sandugan, Larena, Siquijor. (RACalibo/PIA7 Siquijor)

The Multi-Sectoral Monitoring Team meeting, as part of the Energy Development Corporation-Northern Negros Geothermal Project compliance to the Solid Waste Storage and Disposal while right photo, members of the team collect water samples for analysis. (EAD-PIA6/MKNP photo)

San Remigio Mayor Jay Olivar says that around 65 to 70 percent of the more than 1,000 volunteers of the Bayani Challenge event in his town are women highlighting the role of women in nation-building through community empowerment. Olivar says around 30 housing units will be constructed by the volunteers during the event which will kick off on Saturday, March 23 while recipients of the houses are poor residents of Barangay San Miguel located 30 kms. away from the Poblacion. The local government of San Remigio has allocated around P300,000 counterpart funding for the event that includes the construction materials for the model housing unit that will be built and patterned for the other 30 housing units. With Mayor Olivar are Jerome Awit, Gawad Kalinga (GK) Cebu head, Patrick Doromal, event mobilization head, Yvonne Florendo, event marketing head and Fayette Riñen of PIA 7 moderating the presscon. (AS/FCR-PIA7)

Signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among Local Chief Executives and team from Gawad Kalinga (GK) at Provincial Capitol Square. This is a program of Pilipinas Natin, a Bayanihan for Nation Building aims to build volunteerism movement that thrives on the peoples’ continuing response to the call for change. (Photo by: Mark C. Maliksi)

Naval Mayor Susan V. Parilla (center) and Naval Vice-Mayor Redentor C. Villordon (right) lead the ribbon-cutting during the ceremonial turn-over of the Naval Pasalubong Center located at the Naval public bus terminal, Naval, Biliran on March 19. Also in photo is Engr. Celerina T. Bato (left), provincial director of DTI-Biliran. (Rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Engr. Celerina T. Bato (right), provincial director of DTI-Biliran, shows to Naval Mayor Susan V. Parilla (left) a native bag now displayed at the newly turn-over Naval Pasalubong Center located at the Naval public bus terminal, Naval, Biliran, March 19. (Rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Naval Mayor Susan V. Parilla (3rd from right) turns over to Virginia M. Lacar (3rd from left), president of Naval Suman Makers Association (Nasuma) the memorandum of agreement (MOA) between LGU-Naval and Nasuma on the operations of the three food carts under the Rural Micro Enterprise Promotions Program (RumEPP) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Also in photo, attending during the ceremonial turn-over of the three food carts on March 19 are (left to right) Naval SB member Marilou Bernardes Lucente, Engr. Celerina T. Bato, DTI-Biliran provincial director, Virginia M. Lacar, Nasuma president, Naval Mayor Susan V. Parilla, Naval Vice-Mayor Redentor C. Villordon and Ronilo Jamin, DTI-Biliran RuMEPP coordinator. (rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Dixie Catacutan of DOST Kalinga conducts a one-on-one test on the operations of a Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machine with a teacher Board of Election Inspector (BEI) applicant in the province. DOST was mandated to provide both written and practical examination and certify those who pass to ensure that all BEIs are capable of operating the PCOS machines during the 2013 May elections. (Gigi Dumallig, PIA-CAR, Kalinga)

US-based experts on cultural heritage preservation (from left to right top photo) photojournalist Trix Rosen, cultural anthropologist Pascale Montadert, and Architect and preservationist Roz Li, meet with the members of the Kalinga Provincial Tourism Council and various sector of tourism industry in Kalinga discuss the importance of documenting preserving the cultural heritage of the people. (Gigi Dumallig, PIA-CAR, Kalinga)

Members of the Philippine Military Academy Puso’t Dangal ng mga Kawal ng Lahing Nagkakaisa Class of 2013 toss their chako at the end of the commencement exercises at the Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City on Sunday, March 17, 2013. About 124 new graduates have been commissioned as second lieutenants and ensigns of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA CAR)

President Benigno Aquino III awards the diploma and the Presidential Saber to Cadet First Class Jestony Lanaja, valedictorian of the Philippine Military Academy Pudang Kalis or Puso’t Dangal ng mga Kawal ng Lahing Nagkakaisa Class of 2013 during the graduation rites at the Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City on Sunday, March 17. Assisting the President is PMA Superintendent MGen. Ireneo Espino. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA CAR)

Former Health Secretary Esperanza Cabral laughs as representatives from various organizations supporting the Responsible Parenthood Act (Reproduction Health Law) flank her on Wednesday, March 20, while she inserts a paper symbolizing a "ballot" in a carton box representing a "PCOS machine" during the launch of Purple Vote. Purple vote, she says, calls on voters to choose candidates who believes and will stand for the implementation of the RH law. She adds that RH helps couples to plan their families and educates the youth on sexuality and reproductive health as well.

Susano Balais III on Thursday shares his "change" project of bringing people together for socio-economic development in Mindanao during the telling of different "Stories of Leadership and Peace" as part of the Mindanao Bridging Leaders Program (MBLP) by the Asian Institute of Management in Makati City. Dubbed, "Co-Creating Peace in Conflict Affected Areas in Muslim Mindanao," MBLP aims to accelerate peace-building initiatives within the transition period for the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Framework Agreement. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan/PIA-NCR)

Jerome Awit, head of Gawad Kalinga Cebu says that over 1,000 volunteers have signified their intention to join the five-day "Bayani Challenge" event in San Remigio, Northern Cebu which will kick off on Saturday, March 23. Cebu is just one of the 34 provinces throughout the country that is participating in the biggest volunteerism event of the year which will witness a new kind of people power where volunteers engage in nation-building activities such as building homes, painting schools, tree planting, education session to children and even health mission, among others. With Awit is San Remigio Mayor Jay Olivar (far left) and Patrick Doromal, event mobilization head and Yvonne Florendo, event marketing head. (AS/FCR/PIA7)

(L-R) Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III, Solaire Manila Chairman Enrique Razon Jr., PAGCOR Chairman Christino Naguiat Jr. and Parañaque Mayor Florencio Bernabe Jr. grace the grand launch of the Solaire Manila-Bloomberry Resorts at the PAGCOR Entertainment City in Parañaque. (P’QUE-PIO/PIA-NCR)

Parañaque Councilor Benjo Bernabe (left) talks to kids who are waiting for their turn to be circumcised during the “Operation Tule” recently held at the San Antonio Valley VI in Brgy. San Isidro. The activity was organized by the Office of Councilor Raquel Gabriel Velasco, Office of Councilor Benjo Bernabe and the Alpha Phi Omega Parañaque Alumni Association. (P’QUE-PIO/PIA-NCR)

Wilbur Oñas (2nd from left, front), president of the Hda. Carmenchica ARB Farmers Association together with farmer-members of the association receive their P3-million loan as part of the support services of the Department of Agrarian Reform through the Land Bank of the Philippines’ Agricultural Production Credit Program from LBP Representative Pedrito Cabuguason (3rd from right), DAR-PARO South Lucrecia Taberna (right), Pontevedra Mayor Jose Maria Alonso (left) and Vice-Mayor Larry Parroco (2nd from right). (EAD-PIA6 Photo)

Alma Ravena, OIC-Human Resource Development Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government, presents the foundations and goals of the Great Women Project in Iloilo to government information officers and the staff of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region VI. This was part of the activities organized by PIA-VI in celebration of the Women’s Month this March. This was held during the 1st meeting for the first quarter 2013 of the Association of Government Information Officers in Iloilo held on March 7, 2013 at the PIA VI Regional Office. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Police Regional Office-6 Director Chief Supt. Agrimero Cruz (2nd, R) with Chief of Police community Relations Senior Officer Nenita Nebran (2nd, L) lead the releasing of balloons during the graduation ceremony of "Pulis Ko, Titser Ko" program at the A. Montes elementary School in Duran St., Iloilo City. Police peersonnel from PRO-6 have been teaching values, civic mindedness and good citizenship in the public school. (PRO-6/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

Department of Environment and Natural Resources-6 personnel, particularly the staff of the Land Managaement Services pay attention during the training on land inventory, sorting and grooming in preparation for the full implementation of the Land Administration and Management System which is intended to facilitate land database and titling, where problems on erroneous entries and missing titles and data on lands in Western Visayas will be addressed. (DENR-6/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

Atty. Hans Leo J. Cacdac of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration and Dir. Monika Varnhagen of Germany’s Federal Employment Agency-International Placement Services signs the bilateral agreement on the migration of Filipino nurses as answer to the European country’s shortage in health care services. Witnessing the signing are Philippines’ Department of Labor and Employment Sec. Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz and German Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Dr. Ursula von der Leyen. (JLR/PCCC-PMD)

Woman entrepreneur Ronavelle Amen of Purok Poblacion, Pavia, Iloilo answers questions in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency Information Officer Lilibeth French during the recent “Tiangge sang Kababainhan” held at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol. Amen’s peanut butter is one of the products of women entrepreneurs in the country that will be included in the Great Women Brand launch, March 19 at the Yuchengco Museum located at RCBC Plaza in Makati City.

Ryan Benjamin Yu (w/ mic), chairman of the Cebu Integrated Transport Service Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CITRASCO), says jeepneys will be placed in areas where sea passengers will disembark for the convenience of passengers traveling for the Holy Week period. With him are officials from Philippine Coast Guard, Cebu Ports Authority, Philippine National Police, CITOM, Maritime Authority and MARINA-7 during a "Kapihan sa Pantalan" on March 19, 2013. (SBS/PIA-CEBU)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-6) Director Dominic Abad hands over the Silver Bagwis Seal to Ruselle B. Domingo, supervisor of Mirola Merchandising in Roxas City during the awarding ceremony held in line with the World Consumer Rights Day celebration in Iloilo City, March 15. Mirola is one of the five establishments in the region that received the Bagwis Seal for 2012 to 2013. (LAF/PIA6)

KALIPI women from Brgy. Janipa-an East, Mina, Iloilo show their dancing prowess during the Women’s Talk on Women Empowerment and Women’s Right held in line with the 2013 Women’s Month celebration of the province at the Provincial Capitol, March 14. The activity was attended by around 400 women from women’s organizations, KALIPI, volunteer groups and GAD Focal Persons of national government agencies and LGUs. (LAF/PIA)

Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Sr., with surviving war veterans, pause in respect after the wreath laying at the tomb of Panay war hero General Macario Peralta, during the Sunrise Ceremonies at the Balantang Memorial Cemetery National Shrine, in celebration of the 68th Anniversary of the Liberation of Panay, March 18, Jaro, Iloilo City. (ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Minda Calaguian-Cruz and PTIC Commercial Counsellor to Singapore Glenn G. Peñaranda accompanied a Singaporean Business Delegation led by Abdul Rohm Sarip, president of the Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SMCCI) and vice chairman of the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and Rangarajan Narayanamohan, chairman of the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) and vice chairman of the Singapore Business Federation. This mission is composed of a 14-member business delegation that intends to explore business opportunities in the Philippines. It was organized by the Philippine Embassy in Singapore and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Singapore through the DTI capital office and the Board of Investments (BOI), and supported by the Singapore Business Federation, Philippines-Singapore Business Council and the Subic-Clark Alliance for Development. Cruz is the head of mission and Peñaranda, mission coordinator. Also in photo is Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Josephine C. Romero and Foreign Trade Service Corps Coordinating Officer. (DTI-PRO)

Civil, Veterans and Reserve Affairs Office USec. Eduardo G. Batac vows to facilitate more benefits and amenities for some 1,000 surviving war veterans and their families, among which is the establishment of a Veterans General Hospital for Panay, in his message as guest speaker, during the 68th Anniversary of the Liberation of Panay, held at the Balantang Memorial Cemetery National Shrine, Jaro, Iloilo City, March 18. (ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

Dumalo sa covenant signing ang mga kandidato mula sa iba't ibang mga partido sa bayan ng Sto. Tomas, Batangas gayundin ang mga opisyal ng Commission on Elections at Philippine National Police sa layuning maisulong ang isang mapayapa at maiwasan ang karahasan sa pagsapit ng Mayo 2013 elections. (Photo: Sto.Tomas PNP/caption: Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas)

(Starting 2nd from left) CNU Guidance Counselor Emmanuel Hernani, USPF Guidance Counselor Elita Cui, Philippine Mental Health Association-Cebu Chapter Cynthia Potencioso, Philippine Psychiatric Association Past President Purie Onate and Chairman of Philippine Mental Health Association-Cebu Chapter Glenda Basubas as guests during the Kapihan sa PIA forum at the PIA Regional 7 office on March 13, 2013. Topics discussed were on cyberbullying and mental health. Wen Celen of Radyo ng Bayan (extreme-left) and Regional Executive Director Fayette C. Rinen (extreme right) hosted the forum. (VVV-PIA Cebu)

Women Entrepreneurial President Council Mukta Nandini Jain (w/mic) during the break-out session of the 27th Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) conference at the Radisson Blu, Cebu City on March 14, 2013. Jain said that women in the Philippines enjoy equal footing with men only because they are aware of their own importance. With her is Chief Executive Officer of the Attitudes Group of Companies Teresita M. Yujuico (2nd from left). (VVV-PIA Cebu)

President Benigno Aquino III advised members of Philippine Military Academy Pudang-Kalis or Puso’t Dangal ng mga Kawal ng Lahing Nagkakaisa Class of 2013 that when confronted with difficult situations or when at crossroads, to put themselves in the shoes of the marginalized who are affected the most, and to resolve conflict fairly. He also reminded them of their responsibilities as future leaders of the nation. PNoy was the guest speaker during the graduation rites of the 124-strong Pudang Kalis Class on March 17 at Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City. (Redjie Cawis /PIA CAR)

Former San Jose Del Monte City Major Angelito Sarmiento says political dynasties thrive when voters pick up candidates from popular political clans. Mayor Sarmiento guested in one of the recent episodes of Paghahanda para sa Hatol ng Bayan. In the photo with Sarmiento is one of the hosts of Paghahanda, Kathy San Gabriel. Paghahanda is aired Monday to Friday, 3:30 pm on People's Television Network (PTV) and simulcast on Philippine Broadcasting Service-Radyo ng Bayan (PBS-DZRB). Each episode is livestreamed on mediangbayan.ph. Replays are aired at 10:30 pm of the same day. (Lyndon Plantilla/PIA)

Philippine Information Agency 8 Director Olive Tiu (2nd from right, first row) signs the memorandum of agreement together with other representatives from government agencies, non-government organizations, media, students, academe and other sectors led by the JCI Candahug Liberation, Inc. in support to the 2013 Earth Hour activities. The signing was held at Robinsons Place Tacloban City on March 15. This is the 7th year that Earth Hour is headed by the JCI Candahug Liberation with the support of PIA. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Pinangunahan ng Philippien National Police at Commision on Elections kasama ang iba't ibang mga kandidato ang unity walk o sama samang paglalakad para sa layuning maisulong ang isang mapayapa at tahimik na eleksyon sa darating na Mayo 2013. Ang hakbang na ito ay mabisang paraan upang maipaalala sa mga kandidato ang kanilang tungkulin at dapat na gawin sa panahon ng eleksyon. (Photo: Sto. Tomas PNP/caption: Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas)

Around 300 participants to the Fun Walk to mark Women's Day in Catbalogan line up to get their certificates from organizers that include local government units, civil society, army, police and students. The Fun Walk started at 4:30 AM of March 16, 2013. (PIA8)

Supporters of the Earth Hour 2013 activities led by JCI Candahug Liberation, Inc., pose for posterity after the memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing and press conference at Robinson’s activity area, March 15. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Councilor Marilou Bernardes Lucente (seated third from right), who is also the chairman of the Naval town tourism council, presents to the members of the council the activities in line with the ceremonial launching of the town's Pasalubong Center on March 19 in coordination with the provincial office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). (rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Salud Vida Donaldo (left in red polo shirt), election officer of Kawayan town in Biliran province, discusses with the elementary supervisors of DepEd-Division of Biliran, the preparations for the May 13, 2013 national and local elections during the 2nd general conference of Comelec deputies on March 15 at the Nipa Hut, Biliran provincial capitol compound. (rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

The Philippine Society of Nephrology – Bacolod Western Visayas Chapter together with the City Health Office, and representatives from hospitals and pharmaceuticals in Bacolod City join the kick off motorcade for the World Kidney Day, March 14. (EAD-PIA6 photo)

Gov. Edgar Chatto (3rd from left) presides over the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) Meeting on March 13, 2013 held at the Municipal Training Center in Sitio Tawid, Trinidad, Bohol. With Gov. Chatto are (L-R) PNP-BPPO Operation's Officer PCInsp. George Caña, Commanding Officer of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion Lt. Col. Julius Tomines, Trinidad Mayor Roberto Cajes and Gina Gatal of DILG-Bohol. (PIA-Bohol/ECBongosia)

Philippine National Police-Bohol Provincial Police Office (PNP-BPPO) Operation's Officer P/CInsp. George Caña (far left) presents the situation update, operational accomplishments, significant activities and their assessments for the month of February 2013 during the PPOC Meeting held in Trinidad, Bohol on March 13. (PIA-Bohol/ECBongosia)

Virgilio Oponda (center), one of the 20 rescued fishermen from Ubay, Bohol who were victims of illegal human trafficking, receives his P10,000 livelihood assistance from the provincial government of Bohol during the Provincial Peace and Order Council Meeting in Trinidad town on March 13. Bohol Gov. Edgar Chatto (left) and Trinidad Mayor Roberto Cajes (right) handed the cash to the victims. (PIA7 Bohol/ECBongosia)

Ric Obedencio (center, standing) of Capitol SEEM Cluster conducting a Training on Basic News writing to high school students of Kinan-oan High School, Hinlayagan High School, Trinidad Municipal College, Tagum Sur High School and Saint Isidore Academy during the HEAT Bohol Caravan in Trinidad, Bohol on March 13. (PIA7 Bohol/ECBongosia)

2nd Special Forces Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Julius Tomines (standing, left) presenting the situation update, disposition and location of troops, the operational activities and other support activities, assessment and plans of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during the 15th HEAT Bohol caravan held in Trinidad town on March 13. (PIA-Bohol/ECBongosia)

Cebu Province officials sign a memorandum of agreement with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) for the Gabaldon Rehabilitation Project (GRP) on Feb. 15 at Casino Español. The project aims to rehabilitate, protect and conserve Gabaldon buildings in public schools, which are considered heritage structures. L-R, seated: Asturias Mayor Alan Adlawan, RAFI Deputy Director for Operations Amaya Aboitiz, Acting Cebu Governor Agnes Magpale, Argao Mayor Edsel Galeos and Dalaguete Mayor Ronald Allan Cesante. RAFI President Roberto E. Aboitiz (standing, 4th from left), DepEd-Cebu Province Division Superintendent Arden Monisit (standing, 5th from left) and school heads of the first batch of beneficiaries witness the signing. (AYS PIA7/Contributed Photo and caption by RAFI)

Hundreds of applicants join the La Union Mega job fair, wherein thousands of jobs were offered by various local employers and agencies for abroad, held in Saint Louis Gym, San Fernando City on February 22, 2013 as part of the celebration of 163rd Foundation Anniversary of the province. (PIA 1)

PIA 1 La Union Information Officer Miriam P. Aquino interviews the seven Myanmar survivors of the recently sunken Panamian-vessel MV Harita Bauxite along the Cape Bolinao in Pangasinan. She asked whether they have at least made an emergency call for assistance to any particular port upon sensing that they are in danger, the ship’s Chief Officer Kyi Win said that they were caught in an abrupt danger so they had no chance to communicate with only seven minutes after they had an engine trouble, the ship immediately sank. (Caption: MPAquino Photo: VVillanueva Jr. – PIA1 La Union)

The Pilipinas Natin (PN) First Balangayan Camp held at the Saint Louis College (SLC) in Carlatan, San Fernando City served as a challenge, inspiration and eye opener to all the volunteer students from the first to fourth year level as they undertook various activities initiated by their facilitators, it includes an open forum, knowing oneself better, physical/survival activities in blindfold, fellowship and boodlefight, which forms the PN objective to "Build the Character, Compassion and Commitment" among participants. (Caption: MPAquino Photo: VVillanueva Jr.-PIA1 La Union)

The Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) launches the “Bannuar ti Amianan” which recognizes the efforts of individuals, groups and agencies that supported and contributed in various disaster operations in the region for the year 2012, during the Kapihan sa Ilocos held at the Philippine Information Agency Regional Office 1 (MCA/MHH Photo by:Vic Villanueva)

Members of the media support the “Bawal ang EPAL Dito" by signing the campaign tarps, the project launching was held at the DSWD-R1 office in San Fernando City, La Union. DSWD Director Marcelo Nicomedes Castillo (in brown polo) led the media during the event. (Caption: MPAquino / Photo: ENaungayan – PIA1 La Union)

About 48 student volunteers from the Saint Louis College in Carlatan, San Fernando City pose with the Pilipinas Natin (PN) Balangayan Camp Facilitators led by PN North Western Luzon Coordinator Jeff Richard Segumalian (in blue PN shirt, sitting fourth from right) after the first whole day sessions of the two-day La Union Balangayan Camp on February 16 and 17 at the SLC Campus. (Caption: MPAquino / Photo: VVillanueva Jr.-PIA1 La Union)

Hundreds of employees from various government agencies in Region 1 join the Gender and Development Fun Walk from San Fernando City Plaza going to Commission on Audit Covered court in line with the celebration of 2013 National Women’s Month on March 8, 2013. (PIA 1)

Commitment signing of Region 1 Advocates for Gender Equality (RAGE-1) officers and members at the Commission on Audit Covered court in the celebration of 2013 National Women’s Month on March 8, 2013. (PIA 1)

Induction of new set of Region 1 Advocates for Gender Equality officers (from left to right) President Melecio Ubilas (Dept. Social Welfare and Dev't.), Vice-President Marichu Cuison (Civil Service Commission), Treasurer Irenea Ubungen (National Statistical Coordination Board), Board members: Ines Mineses (National Economic and Development Authority), representative of Edwin Ferrer (Department of Education) and Atty. Romel Daguimol (Commission on Human Rights) in line with the celebration of 2013 National Women’s Month at the Commission on Audit Covered court on March 8, 2013. (PIA1)

Vigan City women make baskets, trays, furniture and slippers out of dried water lily at the plaza of barangay Pantay Fatima. This is part of the poverty alleviation program of the city government called "Pagsapulan, Raniag Masakbayan" (Livelihood, Light of the Future) (Text and photos by Imelda Castro-Rivero/PIA Ilocos Sur)

These farmers of Vigan city spread the corns evenly on the ground, to dry it under the sun before selling them. Corn has been a regular crop of farmers in the World Heritage City. Yellow corn is used as feed for animals. (Text and photo by Imelda Castro-Rivero/PIA1 Ilocos Sur)

Pottery making is one of the first industries in the World Heritage City of Vigan which the city government has been keen on maintaining through its poverty alleviation program called "Pagsapulan, Raniag Masakbayan" (Livelihood, Light of the Future). (Text and photo by Imelda Castro-Rivero/PIA1 Ilocos Sur)

Undersecretary Catherine Gonzales of the Department of Transportation and Communication, was the guest of honor and speaker during the Sillag Festival on March 10, 2013 at the Thunderbird Resorts, Poro Point in San Fernando City, La Union. She read the message of President Aquino inspiring the people to continue the momentum in the growth of tourism industry in La Union. (PIA)

President Benigno Aquino III (right photo) thanks the Pangasinenses for always helping the administration in its development projects like the 50-bed capacity Emergency Room Complex of Region I Medical Center (R1MC).The new R1MC facility, he said, was given priority in order to give additional space, to care for the sick people and at the same time provide jobs for Pangasinenses. The President was in Pangasinan for the inauguration of the ER Complex and meet with local leaders and the community on March 15. (PIA Photos/RMN/VIC)

Social Weather Stations President Mahar Mangahas says voters' preferences in the upcoming elections may change depending on the kind of information---good or bad---that voters get from traditional news sources and pre-election surveys. SWS, a non-profit research organization, comes up with pre-election surveys as a public service especially to voters. Dr. Mangahas recently appeared in Paghahanda para sa Hatol ng Bayan. Paghahanda features personalities and experts on suffrage, local governments, national and local legislation (the Senate and the House of Representatives), political parties and multi-party system. Each episode is aired simulcast over Peoples Television Network and Philippine Broadcasting Service-DZRB Radyo ng Bayan and can be viewed via livestreaming at mediangbayan.ph. The Hatol ng Bayan operations center provides real time updates on Paghahanda para sa Hatol ng Bayan episodes via Twitter (@hatol2013), Facebook (Hatol ng Bayan) and Short Messaging System (Text Blasts from PIA). (Lyndon Plantilla/PIA)

MGen. Jose Z. Mabanta Jr. (seated left), division commander, 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army and Antique Governor Exequiel B. Javier (seated Right), sign the Declaration of Manageable Conlict-Affected and Development and Investment-Ready Antique Province during a program held in Sibalom, Antique on March 15. Witnessing are (standing from Left) Sibalom Mayor Joel P. Occena (partly hidden), Vice Governor Rosie A. Dimamay; Fr. Edione R. Febrero; PNP Antique Director Marlon M. Ganzon; AFP Central Command Commander VADM Edgar L. Abogado; Col. Arnold M. Quiapo, brigade commander, 301st Infantry Brigade 3ID, Philippine Army; and Lt. Col. Aldwine I. Almase (partly hidden), battalion commander, 82nd Infantry Battalion, 3ID, Philippine Army. (T.Villavert/PIA6-Antique)

Women groups in Vigan City pose during trade fair on March 1-8 in celebration of the National Women's Month. These groups include Kalipi, Balikatan sa Vigan, Barangay Nutrition Scholars, Barangay Health Workers, Gabriela, Rural Improvement Club, Day Care Workers Association, Women Employees of Vigan, Nueava Segovia Consortium of Cooperatives, STAC Vigan Parents Association, Incorporated. (Text and photo by Imelda Castro-rivero/PIA1/Ilocos Sur)

Godfather of Philippine cycling and Air21 Chairman Bert Lina presents to members of media the "Le Tour de Filipinas 2013" or the 4th Tour of the Philippines road cycling race set on April 13-19 in Northern Luzon. This is the only road cycling race sanctioned and recognized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) of Switzerland, the highest Olympic body for cycling. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan/PIA-NCR)

KALIPI women from Brgy. Janipa-an East, Mina, Iloilo show their dancing prowess during the Women’s Talk on Women Empowerment and Women’s Right held in line with the 2013 Women’s Month celebration of the province at the Provincial Capitol, March 14. The activity was attended by around 400 women from women’s organizations, KALIPI, volunteer groups, and GAD Focal Persons of national government agencies and LGUs. (LAF/PIA)

Rizal Gov. Jun Ynares III (center, seated) signs the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the joint housing project in Brgy. Inarawan Antipolo, City of the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) and the Provincial Government of Rizal for all local government employees and public school teachers. Also in photo are Atty. Darlene Berberabe, president, Pag-IBIG Fund (left), Lolita Mariñas, president Loreland Realty and Development Corporation (right) and (back row, left to right) Juanito EJ Eje, vice-president of Pag-IBIG Fund; Siony Martinez, chairman of the board, Laurasia Realty Corporation, Benny Flores, vice president, Laurasia Realty Corp.; Ramon Henares, Economic Enterprise Office; Atty. Roselle Ramilo, Provincial Legal Office and Richard Mariñas, corporate secretary, Loreland Realty. (Rizal – PIO)

Rizal Gov. Jun Ynares III (with microphone) addresses the 1,000 youth participants of Takbo ng Kabataan held at Ynares Center. The fun run, which aims to instill sports and camaraderie among the youth, is in coordination with the Sangguniang Kabataang Federation of Antipolo. Philippine National Police personnel and other youth organizations joined the run. (Rizal – PIO)

Project Chairman Rommel Cunanan launches on Thursday the 2nd consecutive nationwide search for Outstanding Filipino Farmers (TOFARM 2013) in Makati City. The search, which also aims to foster the steady increase of youth participation in the agriculture sector, is a project of the Junior Chamber International, Philippines (JCI, formerly Phl Jaycees) and Universal Harvester, Inc. Also in photo are Milagros T. Ong-How, executive vice president of fertilizer company UHI and JCI 2013 National President Ryan Ravanzo. For deatails, visit www.tofarm.org. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan)

ECHOSi Foundation President Jeannie Javelosa says some products of women entrepreneurs in Iloilo will be included in the Great Women Brand launch with target customers on March 19 in Manila during her talk on women empowerment held at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol in line with the Women’s month celebration. (LAF/PIA6)

An elementary school teacher, who is an examiner of the 2013 National Achievement Test (NAT) held simultaneously nationwide on March 12 to 13, gives instruction to the grade three elementary pupils in a room used as examination center in Naval Central School in Naval, Biliran. (Rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Dr. Alfonso I. Veneracion (center), provincial health officer of the province of Biliran, signs the tarpaulin bearing the pledge of commitment for a sustainable rabies-free Biliran province during the launching of the rabies awareness month in Biliran province held at the Kawayan town hall ground in Kawayan, Biliran, March 8. Also in photo waiting their turn to sign are Dr. Suzette Apura (left), provincial veterinarian of Biliran province, Flordelis E. Jackson, provincial information center manager of PIA-Biliran (partly hidden center) and Cristy Santos (right), environmental officer of DENR-Biliran. (rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Roberto G. Manuel (right), Naval North district supervisor attends to Maria Teresa Bernadas (left), principal of Sto. Nino Elementary School in Naval, Biliran are checking the test materials of the National Achievement Test (NAT) to be given to the grades three and six elementary pupils all over the country starting today, March 12 until March 13. (Rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Rizalina Estrada, chief of assessment section of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in Region 8, explains the various revenue regulations pertaining to the tax obligations of candidates for the May 13, 2013 national and local elections in a tax forum attended by the local candidates in Biliran province. (rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

Pilipinas Natin National Capital Region Coordinator Mark Aquino calls on to more than 150 student leaders of the Tarlac State University to "love our country," during the forum on Bayani Challenge 2013 held at the University's Lab School in Tarlac City. Aquino said, “ang bawat isang student leader ay mayroong pagmamahal, kung kaya nating magbigay ng pagmamahal sa ibang tao, kaya rin nating magmahal para sa Pilipino, para sa bayan.” (Photo by Roel Lazaro/PIA3)

San Fernando's Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel of the City of San Fernando were commended for arresting five armed suspects from Cavite who violated PD 1866 or Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition and Comelec Resolution 9561-A last February 21. The team, led by PSupt. Ricardo David, is composed of PSI Rogelio Manalang, SPO4 Noel Doria, PO3 Edwin Abad, PO1 Jefferson Yutuc, PO1 Allan Eugenio, PO1 Dominador Fernandez Jr., PO1 Efren Calngan and PO2 Oliver Fulguirinas. (Photo by CSF-CIO)

(Left photo) Judy Malonda (in pink), social worker, Pagsapupo Center, SPO1 Cheryl Sapinosa Antique PNP Women and Children’s Desk officer and Marilou Llavan, executive director, Antique Human Resources Development Program share the thrusts of their agencies in support to the protection and empowerment of women in a radio program of PIA Antique aired over station DYKA in line with the Women’s Month celebration. (PSM/PIA6 Antique)

Philippine Information Agency (PIA-VI) Regional Director Atty. Janet C. Mesa together with UP Professor Roman Sañares lead the ribbon cutting ceremony of “Pinta, Porma, Atbp.”, (inset) an art exhibition showcasing the first works of the women lawyer members of the Women Law Advocates of the Philippines, Inc. (WLAP). This month-long exhibit will run until April 12, 2013 at the University of the Philippines Visayas Art Gallery here. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Broderick Train, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management officer, supports the registration of radio operators in Antique during the General Amnesty on Registration of Radio Equipment conducted by National Telecommunications Commission in Antique on Tuesday. NTC grants amnesty to unregistered radio equipment in Region 6 which started March 11 to 15, 2013. Train radio operators play a significant role during calamities and disasters and in emergency cases. (PSM-PIA6 Antique)

DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo (inset), urges the online businesses to use trustmarks, which is similar to a seal of good housekeeping to increase the level of confidence of consumers when transacting with e-commerce sites, during the Digital Commerce Association of the Philippines (DCOM) Summit 2013. Under the Republic Act 8792 also known as the E-commerce Act of 2000, the Department of Trade and Industry is mandated to direct and supervise the promotion and development of electronic commerce in the country with relevant agencies. (DTI-PRO)

Negros Occ. Provincial Administrator Enrique Pinongan (2nd from left) turns over a check worth P10,000 to a beneficiary of Negros First Universal Crop Insurance Program (NFUCIP) Segundina del Olmo, representing the death insurance claim of Homero del Olmo of Brgy. Quezon, San Carlos City. Also in photo is Jose Ma. Torres of Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (right). (Capitol/CD/PIA photo)

Janice Lucmong, program specialist of TESDA-7 shares about the TESDA-Coca Cola Livelihood Project for women during the recent AGIO-7 Forum at the PIA-7 regional office. (FCR/HFG/PIA-7)

City of San Fernando Mayor Oscar S. Rodriguez recognizes the Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers - Pampanga Chapter President Engineer Jerry Tecson and member Engineer Joselito Rosario for partnering with the City of San Fernando’s Bureau of Fire Protection in its fire prevention efforts through free training and seminars. (Photo by CSF-CIO)

Angel Gabriel from the San Fernando Elementary School receives an award from City of San Fernando Mayor Oscar S. Rodriguez for winning 1st Place in the On-the-Spot Poster-Making Contest in celebration of the Fire Prevention Month with the theme “Sunog at Sakuna Paghandaan, Kalikasan ay Pangalagaan nang Matamasa ang Pag-unlad ng Bayan.” (PIA3)

City of San Fernando Mayor Oscar S. Rodriguez leads the blessing and inauguration of the two-storey fire station building beside the City Hall on March 11. Witnessing the ceremony are Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Regional Director Fire Chief Superintendent Ariel A. Albarayuga and Provincial Director Fire Superintendent Emmanuel Arrozal. Presiding in the blessing is Rev. Fr. Raul delos Santos. (PIA3)

The Debris Management Cluster presents their updates during the inter agency meeting, Typhoon Pablo rehabilitation efforts for Davao Oriental, held last March 12 at the conference room of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA)

College students from the Mindanao Kokusai Daigaku College in Davao City learn the basics of rugby during the first-ever rugby clinic held in the city. Several players from the Lloyd Mcdermott Developmental Rubgy Team from Australia also joined to teach the sport similar to American football. The clinic is supported by Sagittarius Mines Incorporated and the Philippine Rugby Football Union. (PIA)

The two employees of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Regional Office No. 11 in Panay demonstrate how the mobile revenue collection officer system (MRCOs) (inset) works. This is an innovation that will provide convenience to both taxpayers and collection agents. This was held during the Tax Campaign kick off held on March 8, 2013 at Robinson’s Place Iloilo. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Davao del Norte OIC-Provincial Administrator Norma Lumain introduces the provincial department heads of Davao del Norte to the visiting provincial department heads of Batangas, headed by Provincial Administrator Victor Reyes. Batangas province is replicating the economic enterprise model of Davao del Norte. (nobags/PIA)

Vice Gov. Victorio Suaybaguio Jr. welcomes the provincial department heads of Batangas, headed by Provincial Administrator Victor Reyes, during their visit in Davao del Norte Capitol. Batangas province is replicating the economic enterprise model of Davao del Norte. (nobags/PIA)

Department of Agricultutre Regional Director Remelyn Recoter (2nd L) turns over a facsimile check amounting to P11.85 million to Compostela Valley officials: Governor Arthur Uy (extreme R), Cong. Rommel Amatong of 2nd District (2nd L) and Cong. Maricar Zamora-Apsay of 1st District (2nd R). The said amount will support the continuing efforts to rehabilitate banana plantations affected by Typhoon Pablo. Also in photo are provincial agriculturist Rolando Simene (extreme L) and Simon Bakker of Kennemer Foods Inc. (Photo by DA-HVCDP XI)

Milagros “Inday” Garcia-del Rosario, president of the Provincial Officials Spouses Initiative (POSI) of Davao del Norte, responds to the greetings of Governor Rodolfo del Rosario, Vice Governor Victorio Suaybaguio Jr. and Provincial Women Council President Providencia Nuñez (both back to the camera) after she keynoted the recent convocation program of the province. Del Rosario echoed President Aquino's pro-women policies, topped by the government's “Daang Matuwid” (straight path) campaign. (DavNor PIO)

Student leaders of Tarlac State University on Monday pledges their commitment to serve by sticking their paper airplane which symbolizes as them being a leader placed on a canvass using their hand which was painted during the University's 5th Student Leaders' Day. (Photo by Roel Lazaro/PIA3)

A model of the Gawad Kalinga (GK) village that would soon rise in Magsaysay, Talibon, Bohol. On March 23 to 27, 2013, volunteers will troop to 42 Bayani Challenge sites in the provinces all over the country including Bantolinao in Antequera and another site in Magsaysay,Talibon in Bohol. Under the Bayani Challenge event, volunteers are engaged into building homes, repairing schools, participating in health missions, joining in climate change mitigation activities and other activities that render patriotic services or duty. (PIA-Bohol)

The female members of the Tuburan Abaca Handicraft Association (left) and the Rural Improvement Club (right) take part in the 2013 Tiangge sang mga Kababainhan sang Iloilo. This endeavor, which displays and promotes products of the groups of women micro-entrepreneurs (WMVs) in the province, is part of the many activities prepared by the Iloilo Provincial Capitol in celebration of the International Women’s Month. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Barangay Patalon receives P4.4M water System from the City Government of Zamboanga and the Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD) recently. (PIA)

Iloilo Provincial Governor Arthur Defensor Sr., (in the podium) praises the significant contributions of the women employees of the Iloilo Provincial Government. This, he conveyed during the opening program of the Iloilo Provincial Capitol’s celebration of the International Women’s Month held on March 11, 2013, at the Capitol Grounds. (LTP/PIA6 Iloilo)

Siquijor Provincial Governor Orlando A. Fua (2nd from left) trying to comfort one of the patients availing of the free medical-surgical mission offered by the Philippine-American Medical Association of Georgia (Pamag) in coordination with the provincial government of Siquijor on February 25 to March 1, 2013 at the Siquijor Provincial Hospital. (PIA-Siquijor/Pinky Dianne)

Some of the Siquijodnons availing of the medical-surgical mission offered by the Philippine-American Medical Association of Georgia (Pamag) in coordination with the provincial government of Siquijor on February 25 to March 1, 2013 at the Siquijor Provincial Hospital. (PIA-Siquijor w/ photo by Pinky Diane Calunod/PIO)

The Medical team getting ready for the operation during the medical-surgical mission conducted for the people of Siquijor province by the Philippine-American Medical Association of Georgia (Pamag) in coordination with the provincial government of Siquijor on February 25 to March 1, 2013 at the Siquijor Provincial Hospital. (PIA-Siquijor w/ photo by Pinky Diane Calunod/PIO)

Multi-sectoral participants listen during the BIR's 2013 Tax Campaign at Margarita Hall, Hotel Camila, Pagadian City on March 4, 2013. (PIA)

The Bureau of Fire Prevention Protection-Maasin City fire fighters (in blue uniform) conduct a fire drill at Maasin city hall building together with the city emergency response team (in orange) on March 8 in celebration of the Fire Prevention Month. (rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)

Philippine Information Agency 8 Director Olive Tiu delivers her keynote message before the more than 300 participants of the Women Leaders’ Forum held at the Ibabao Hall, Capitol Building, Catarman, Northern Samar, March 8. The forum is one of the activities of the Provincial Government of Northern Samar in line with the 2013 Women’s Month Celebration with the theme, “KABABAIHAN: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Landas.” (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Sanguniang Panlalawigan Northern Samar Board Member Albert Lucero gives his message to the more than 300 participants province wide of the Women Leaders’ Forum held at the Ibabao Hall, Capitol Building, Catarman, Northern Samar, March 8. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

The Parañaque City Social Welfare and Development Office in cooperation with the Leonard Cheshire Disability Philippines Foundation, Inc. (LCDPFI) sponsor a livelihood training on dishwashing liquid and fabric conditioners-making for 50 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) recently. The project aims to aid PWDs to improve their income earning capacity towards economic independence. (P’QUE-PIO/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)

Philippine Information Agency 8 Director Olive Tiu (in white dress) is flanked by the organizers and participants of the First Women’s Leaders’ Forum held at the Ibabao Hall, Capitol Building, Catarman Northern Samar, March 8. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

Philippine Information Agency 8 Director Olive Tiu accepts a plaque of appreciation from the Provincial government of Northern Samar through the Provincial Gender and Development Technical Working Group, in recognition of her valuable contribution and support to the 2013 Women Month activities of the province held at the Ibabao Hall, Capitol Building, Catarman, Northern Samar, March 8. Others in photo are (l-r) Dr. Venus Cardenas, Hon. Golda Ballesta and Ms. Adelwisa Acebuche. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA-8)

The Barangay Moral Recovery Program coordinators for the First District of Davao del Norte during the launch of the BMRPC. (nobags-PIA)

Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario says that spiritual and moral recovery is an indispensable component in attaining social development. (nobags-PIA)

Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region VI Director Atty. Janet Mesa gives her message to the government information officers during the 1st meeting for the first quarter 2013 of the Association of Government Information Officers in Iloilo held on March 7, 2013 at the PIA VI Regional Office. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Different government agencies and organizations including the staff of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region VI (upper left) participate in the Purple Walk, one of the activities for the 2013 Women’s Month celebration organized by the Ugsad Regional Gender Resource Center in Western Visayas. The Purple Walk was held on March 8, 2013 with the walk starting at the University of the Philippines Visayas Campus. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Department of Tourism -XI Regional Director Art Boncato (third from right) during a photo-ops with tourism buyers from Beining, China during a luncheon held at new Park Inn by Radisson Davao hotel last March 9. A Chinese delegation attended the 2013 MICE (Meetings Incentives Conventions Exhibits) Conference held in Davao City and is seriously considering the city as a destination for the growing MICE market in China.(RGA/PIA XI)

Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo G. Marañon Jr. leads the groundbreaking rites of the P6-million Su-ay-Buenavista Communal Irrigation Project in Himamaylan City. (EAD-PIA6/Capitol Photo)

Department of Agriculture-6 Regional Director Larry Nacionales (left) shares that there is continuous positive growth of commodities produced by the agriculture sector in Region VI during an episode of Hangpanay program of the Community Communications Network (CCN) of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region VI-Iloilo. The program is hosted by Mrs. Elsa Subong (right), Iloilo Information Center Manager. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Milagros “Inday” Garcia-del Rosario, president of the Provincial Officials Spouses Initiative (POSI) of Davao del Norte, says women are truly inspired by the president’s pro-women policies, topped by the government's “Daang Matuwid” (Straight Path) campaign. (DavNor PIO)

Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario administers the oath of office of the Barangay Moral Recovery Program Coordinators (BMRPC) for District 1. (nobags/PIA 11)

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (left) holds a basket of newly-harvested mangoes at a 409-hectare Dasoland adventure park in Dasol, Pangasinan. Boasting of 7,500 mango trees, Dasoland was recently accredited by the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Plant Industry as a mango nursery operator and source of quality mango seedlings for propagation. During his visit, on March 7, 2013, the DA chief said Dasoland — owned by the family of Menardo Jimenez, former president and CEO of GMA media network — will be included in the list agri-tourism sites that the DA will endorse to Filipino and foreign visitors. Joining him (from left) are Carolina Jimenez of Dasoland, DA high value crops development program Director Jennifer Remoquillo and DA Ilocos Regional Director Valentino Perdido. (Photo by Kathrino Resurreccion, DA Information Service)

Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario receives a giant Batangas Knife as a token from Batangas Provincial Administrator Victor Reyes, during their visit to the Davao del Norte Capitol. Batangas province is replicating the economic enterprise model of Davao del Norte. (nobags-PIA11)

Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario, center front, and Vice Gov. Victorio Suaybaguio Jr. together with the provincial department heads of Batangas, headed by Provincial Administrator Victor Reyes, during their visit in Davao del Norte Capitol. Batangas province is replicating the economic enterprise model of Davao del Norte. (nobags-PIA 11)

NEDA-6 Asst. Regional Director Atty. Raul Anlocotan said some studies show that women are effective in governance because they tend to be more transparent, more accountable and democratic in their style of leadership in his message during the International Women’s Day celebration held at UP Visayas, Iloilo City, March 8. (LAF/PIA6)

President Aquino presents to the media the locally-crafted chairs from Dabawenyo furniture makers during a press conference at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City on March 7, the President was in town for the opening of the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conference, Exhibits) Conference 2013 which Davao City hosted. (PIA)

Commission on Elections Chairperson Sixto Brilliantes tries to light up the Bata Muna cake as commissioners Grace Padaca and Elias Yusoph look on. The Bata Muna campaign calls on candidates and voters to support children's welfare and protection. (Photo by Lyndon Plantilla, PIA)

Officers of the Government Arsenal stand in front of their newly renovated gate at Limay, Bataan. A new law provides P75 billion to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines, benefitting the 370-hectare arsenal that makes ammunitions for the AFP and the Philippine National Pollice. (Photo courtesy of Government Arsenal/Jose Mari M. Garcia/PIA 3)

Rizal entrepreneurs showcase food products, fresh produce and even potted herbs at DTI-Rizal's Weekend Market, usually held on Fridays to Saturdays upon announcement of the agency. (GG-PIA4A)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines receives 200 refurbished firearms from the Government Arsenal during a recent turn over in Limay, Bataan. (Photo courtesy of Government Arsenal/Jose Mari M. Garcia/PIA 3)

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 4A Regional Director Marilou Toledo and DTI-Rizal Provincial Director Mercy Parreno observe pangasius and squash based dishes prepared by Rizalenos for DTI's Agri Panga Culinary Fest. The event was held on March 7 at the Rizal provincial capitol in line with the women's month and the 4th anniversary of the capitol from Pasig City to Antipolo City. (GG-PIA4A)

Richard and Julia Abad are all smiles with their Nego-Kart from Department of Labor and Employment Region III which helps them to send their two children to school after quitting their jobs in a factory that posed dangers to their health due to chemical exposure. (Photo courtesy of Jerry Borja/Jose Mari M. Garcia/PIA 3)

A ray of light shines upon a first-time recipient for the Set 6 of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development as she awaits a PhilPost cashier to give her cash grant inside the covered court of Barangay 4 in Bacolod City where 2,719 other beneficiaries got their grants March 7. (EAD-PIA6 photo)

Vehicles from private and public sectors join the 2013 Tax Campaign Caravan held in Iloilo City on March 8, headed by the Bureau of Internal Revenue Region no. 11 to inform the public that tax filing season is fast approaching. The activity is part of the Tax Campaign Kick Off program with the theme, “I love Philippines, I Pay Taxes Correctly.” (EJB/PIA 6)

Multi-sector groups in the province of Antique join the parade in celebration of the Women’s Month with the theme “Kababaihan: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan.” The parade was held March 8 in selected streets of San Jose, Antique. Various activities have been scheduled for the month-long celebration. (T.Villavert/PIA-Antique)

Beneficiaries of Universal PhilHealth cards from Kalibo's 16 towns have their health profiles and other related information were listed by health personnel of the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital before lining up to get their Universal PhilHealth cards from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO). For Kalibo, a total of 3,206 cards are targeted to be distributed from March 6 to 7 and 1,989 in Numancia on March 9. (PIA/vgv)

During the first Monday of March flag raising ceremony at the Department of Budget and Management, Central Luzon's government employees do the "Zumba" dance-craze to get fit. (Photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut/PIA3)

The Regional Technical Working Group and the Regional Nutrition Committee of Central Luzon conduct a core group meeting in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga to discuss the topic "Promote Good Nutrition-Infant Young Child Feeding Barangay" roll-out training, Monitoring and Evaluation of Local Level Plan Implementation and Nutrition month celebration this July. (Photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut/PIA3)

President Benigno Aquino III signs R.A. 10374 or the law granting tax relief for international air and shipping companies. With the law these international carriers will be exempted from paying the 2.5 percent Gross Philippine Billings Tax (GPBT) and the three percent common carriers’ tax (CCT) being imposed on the passengers and their excess baggage. The law was signed during the opening ceremonies of the Meetings Incentives, Conference and Exhibitions (MICE) Conference 2013 held in Davao City on March 7. Witnessing the signing include (from left) Senate Franklin Drilon, House Speaker Sonny Belmonte, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Davao City 3rd District Representative Isidro Ungab, Davao City Vice-Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and Davao City 2nd Dist. Rep. Mylene Garcia. (PIA)

During the March 6 edition of "Talakayan Ngayon" aired at DWRWFM 95.1 and hosted by broadcaster veteran Perry Pangan, guests are Gawad Kalinga area coordinator for Central Luzon, Jon Ramos; Gawad Kalinga coordinator for Pampanga, George Roxas; and, Pilipinas Natin CL Coordinator Banick Merenciano where they discussed the Bayanihan Challenge 2013 which will be conducted from March 23-27 at Cabiao, Nueva Ecija. (Photo by Joelyn G. Baluyut/PIA3)

First Staff meeting of Cebu Information Center for 2013: (R-L) Rachelle M. Nessia, Virgilio V. Verzonilla Jr, Juju M. Empuerto and Ferliza Contratista at the JCA Pizza Restaurant, Gorordo Avenue, Cebu City on March 7, 2013. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

Pagasa's weather specialists Roberto Quinto, Analiza Solis, Erie Estrella and Nancy Lance are the resource persons during the seminar/ workshop on the use of Automated Weather Station (AWS) data for disaster preparedness held recently in Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur. (PIA)

Police Regional Director Elmer Soria and Paranas Mayor (in stripes) is joined by PD Eusebio Mejos and Vice Mayor Yolanda Tan during the ceremonial groundbreaking of a new PNP building worth P 5.3 M at the 600 sq meter-lot donated by Paranas LGU. Paranas LGu also shelled out P 1 M while PNP covered the remaining amount. (A. Ebalde)

Carmona Mayor Dahlia Loyola (standing) welcomes regional directors, private sector representatives and guests for choosing the municipality to be the venue of this year’s RDC Region IV-A first quarterly meeting. Among they discussed are the economic condition, disaster risk reduction and peace and order. The 16 agency team led by Philippine Red Cross Governor Andrew O. Nocon (private sector representative) presided the meeting on Sectoral Committee on Macro economy and Development Administration (SCMDA). (Carmona PIO/PIA-Cavite)

Tinanggap ni Provincial Director Edwin Capanzana (gitna) ang 43 loose firearms na may iba't ibang kalibre, kasama ang mga pulisya ng PNP-Marinduque sa Camp Maximo Abad, Boac, Marinduque. Ito ay isang paghahanda para sa darating na halalan 2013. Saksi ang mga media practitioners kasama si PIA officer, Mayda N. Lagran. (Photo by:Noel Magturo)

Sa pagdiriwang ng Rabies Awareness Month ngayong Marso, nagkaroon ng pagpapakalat ng impormasyong pangkalusugan at pangkaligtasan ang Provincial Veterinary Office sa pamumuno ni Dr. Josue Victoria sa PIA-MIMAROPA HOUR sa Radyo Natin-Boac kasama si Mayda N. Lagran, PIA anchor, kaagapay ang Department of Health. (Photos by WHidalgo)

To prime the mall employees and building occupants of fire incidents, SM City San Pablo joins the community in the observance of Fire Prevention Month by having a seminar on Fire Safety Measures last March 5, 2013. Fire Officer 3 Diego Aguila and his team from the local Bureau of Fire Protection conducted a fire seminar followed by an actual demonstration and basic use of fire fighting equipment.(Photo and caption: SM City-SPC/ACO, PIA-Laguna)

Weather Forecast Specialist Erie Estrella explains the use and functions of the different parts of the Automated Weather Station installed at the Glupa-Gulian Agro-Tourism Park, sitio Quibranza, Kahayagan, Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Director Elmer Soria and Paranas Mayor (in stripes) is joined by PD Eusebio Mejos and Vice Mayor Yolanda Tan during the ceremonial groundbreaking of a new PNP building worth P 5.3M at the 600 sq meter-lot donated by Paranas LGU. Paranas LGU also shelled out P 1M while PNP covered the remaining amount. (A. Ebalde)

As pledge to peaceful election and friendship. Gov. Alfredo G. Maranon Jr. (left) and Vice Gov. Genaro M. Alvarez Jr. shake hands after signing the election peace covenant, held at the San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod City, recently. (Capitol photo: PIA6-LOL)

Felimon Espares, manager of Barbaza Multi-purpose Cooperative talks about pros and cons of the registration of power/electric cooperatives to the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) in a meeting of Antique Provincial Cooperative Development Council recently. In attendance are representatives of federation of cooperatives, non-government organizations, media, students, government offices, CDA and other power stakeholders. (MLG/PSM-PIA6 Antique)

Guests from Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 7, namely: Information Officer Jaybee Binghay (2nd from left) and Social Worker Timotea Gadapan (3rd from left) discussing Women's Month activities and issues during the Kapihan sa PIA forum in Cebu City. Hosts are PIA Cebu ICM Rachelle Nessia (far left) and Wen Celen of DYMR Radyo ng Bayan (far right). (VVV/PIA7 Cebu)

Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Elma Malbas (left) answers a query from a Universal PhilHealth card beneficiary during the distribution held at the Provincial Trade Hall March 7 for 3,206 Kalibonhon indigents. (PIA/vgv)

Philippine fashion brand Aranaz showcases its Delujo bags, which are made of coconut and trimmed with gold and semiprecious stones, at the exhibit during the 2nd International Fashion Showcase (IFS) at the Philippine Embassy in London from February 15 to 19, 2013. The IFS, which was held during the London Fashion Week, showcased emerging designers from 27 participating countries to the European market. It took place in various embassies and cultural institutes. In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in London, Philippine British Council, and the Philippine Embassy, this exhibit was organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and the Garments and Textile Industry Development Office (GTIDO). (DTI-PRO)

Fashion brand Rags2Riches displays its bags, laptop sleeves and tablet cases, wallets and clutches collection at the exhibit during the 2nd International Fashion Showcase (IFS) at the Philippine Embassy in London from February 15 to 19, 2013. These products were made from fabric scraps purchased from garment manufacturers, as well as organic and native weaves from indigenous communities to create their products. The IFS was held during the London Fashion Week, and took place in various embassies and cultural institutes. In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in London, Philippine British Council, and the Philippine Embassy, this exhibit was organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and the Garments and Textile Industry Development Office (GTIDO). (DTI-PRO)

The products display of the Jordan Ati Community Association (JACA) of the province of Guimaras was one of the most visited during the exhibit held in line with the Women’s Month celebration at the UP Visayas GDP Building on March 5. JACA is into accessories making made from native materials such as nito and buri and coco shell products. (LAF/PIA)

UPV Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Prof. Emilia Santos- Yap, assisted by Vice Chancellor Dr. Evelyn Belleza, unties the ceremonial ribbon during the opening of an exhibit in line with the Women’s Month celebration. The one-day activity that showcased the various activities on women’s wellness and GAD of some government agencies was held at the GDP Building in UPV Iloilo City campus, March 6. (LAF/PIA6)

Roberto Quinto, senior weather specialist of Pagasa explains the weather system affecting the Philippines during the seminar/workshop on the use of the Automated Weather Station (AWS) data for disaster preparedness held on March 1, 2013 at Glupa Gulian Agro-Tourism Park, sitio Quibranza, Kahayagan, Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur

Former Central Command Chief and current head of the Philippine Navy Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano briefs his men belonging to the Army 303rd brigade based in Minoyan, Murcia, Negros Occ. during his recent visit to the province. He urged them to uphold people's rights especially during the coming mid-term elections. (PIA6-LOL)

Board of Investment Governor Oliver Butalid (3rd from left) explains to the participants of the public hearing the new sector inclusions for this year's Investment Priorities Plan. The public hearing was held in Sarrosa Hotel, Mabolo Cebu City and attended by a hundred representatives from the business, agriculture, finance and government sectors. (FCC/PIA Cebu)

Cebu province is the pilot area for the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer program of DSWD-7 with around 3,400 families benefiting from it for now, said DSWD-7 MCCT Focal Person Raquel Daria (w/mic) during the Kapihan sa PIA forum in Cebu City. With her are (L-R) PIA Cebu IO-3 Rachelle Nessia, Lolit Ganapin of Bidlisiw Foundation and Wen Celen of DYMR Radyo ng Bayan. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

More and more babies are being put up for adoption, but couples applying to adopt are getting fewer. This was the gist of the discussion by guests from Department of Social Welfare and Development -7 during the recent Kapihan sa PIA in Cebu City. (L-R): PIA Cebu IO-3 Rachelle Nessia, Timotea Gadapan of DSWD-7, Vilma Cosido of DSWD-7 and Wen Celen of Radyo ng Bayan. (VVV/PIA-Cebu)

PIA-Antique Information Center Manager Margie L. Gadian leads local media as witness to the peace covenant signing for all stakeholders at the provincial level held recently at the Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park, San Jose, Antique. The activity was initiated by the Philippine National Police, the religious sector, Commission of Elections and the Philippine Army in order to achieve the conduct of secure and fair elections on May 13.(T.Villavert/PIA-Antique)

Beneficiaries of the Negros Occidental Barangay Insurance Program line up to receive close to P1.3-million worth of insurance benefits from Gov. Alfredo G. Marañon Jr. and Vice Mayors Cynthia Dela Cruz and Reynaldo Depasucat Jr. of Don Salvador Benedicto and E.B. Magalona towns respectively at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon and Park. (EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

Thirty graduates pose with the model house they constructed after finishing the Cash for Training Program (C4TP) of Tesda and DSWD. The graduates were from Compostela Valley, one of the provinces hardest hit by the typhoon. With them is Compostela Valley Mayor Jessie Bolo (third from right). (PIA)

Palarong Pambansa 2012 athlete Febelyn Camangeg of Apayao lights the Friendship Flame to officially open the Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association meet 2013 at the Apayao Eco-Tourism and Sports Complex in Luna, Apayao. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

The Department of Agriculture-Cordillera brings its advocacy campaign on 2013 as National Year of Rice in the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City by joining the float parade and setting up booth during the Session Road in Bloom. Here, DA-Cordillera Information Officer Robert Domoguen (3rd from r) lead people along Session Road in reciting the "Panatang Makapalay." The campaign aims to promote responsible rice consumption for better health and less rice wastage and productive farming through the promotion of efficient rice technologies and inspiring farmers to do better. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

SM Prime Holdings President Hans Sy (left) receives a ceremonial basketball jersey from National Basketball Association Asia Senior Vice President and Managing Director Scott Levy following an announcement made by the league of the first ever holding of an NBA pre-season game in the Philippines on October 10, 2013 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan/PIA-NCR)

SM Prime Holdings President Hans Sy says on Tuesday that the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City is more than ready to host the first ever National Basketball Association (NBA) pre-season game in the country on October 10, 2013. Ticket prices for the event, however, will be announced soon. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan/PIA-NCR)

President Benigno S. Aquino III listens to the briefing of DPWH Usec. Alfredo Tolentino on the different infrastructure road networks being done in Bulacan to address traffic problems and bottlenecks in the province during the presidents visit in the province recently. (Joseph B Zambrano/PIA CAR)

Displayed at the Pinukpuk municipal booth at Capitol during the celebration of Kalinga day and Ullalim festival Display are traditional rice varieties raised in Kalinga uplands which are popular for their exotic and aromatic taste. The 'Unoy' rice is being exported to other countries. (Peter Balocnit, PIA-CAR/Kalinga)

National Basketball Association Commissioner David Stern announces on Tuesday, March 5, over a Jumbotron live feed, the first ever NBA pre-season game in the Philippines on October 10, 2013 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City featuring the Houston Rockets and the Indiana Pacers. (Photo by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan/PIA-NCR)

Tabuk City Mayor Ferdinand Tubban talks on establishing a good foundation in building a successful family and lasting married life during the observance of the Civil Service Month celebration with the theme “Bringing Public Service to the People.” Mayor Tubban officiated the free mass wedding for 57 couples from different barangays of the Tabuk City. (GGD/PIA CAR,Kalinga)

(Top photo) Students and their coaches listen to the instructions of Kalinga Apayao State College Professor Nelda Bulawit (inset) – the chairman of the Board of Judges during the 2013 Division Festival of Talents in Filipino and Araling Panlipunan at DepEd Kalinga Division Office. (Lower photo) The judges (l-r) Professor Marciano Paroy Jr., of KASC, Geraldine Dumallig of PIA-Kalinga and KASC professors Nelda Bulawit and Marilou Alngag. (GGD, PIA, CAR-Kalinga)

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero encourages the athletes of the Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association to perform their best and excel in the different competitions during the competitions during the opening ceremony of the CARAA meet 2013 at the Apayao Eco-Tourism and Sports Complex in Luna, Apayao. (Redjie Cawis/PIA CAR)

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero together with Apayao Congresswoman Eleanor Begtang and Governor Elias Bulut Jr. cut the ribbon during the inauguration of the Apayao Eco-Tourism and Sports Complex in Luna, Apayao during the Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) meet 2013 opening ceremony. The annual regional meet is hosted for the first time by the province of Apayao. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA CAR)

National Bureau of Investigation-Cordillera Director Jose Limmayog Jr. (l) and Cordillera Police Regional Office Deputy Regional Director for Operations, PSSupt. Robert Soriano (c) lead the ceremonial burning of P30,000 worth of dried marijuana confiscated during the 'Operation Emerald Mountain' by joint operatives of the NBI, PRO-Cor, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Armed Forces of the Philippines and local government of Benguet conducted in the different barangays of Kibungan in Benguet. (Redjie Cawis/ PIA-CAR)

Tabuk city Mayor Ferdinand Tubban after receiving the Seal of Excellence award for good governance shakes hands with Senatorial candidate Grace Poe during the celebration of the 18th Kalinga Day and Ullalim Festival. Mayor Tubban also shared the same gesture to Senator Chiz Escudero, Gov. Jocel Baac and Vice Gov. Allen Jesse Mangaoang. (Peter Balocnit, PIA-CAR/Kalinga)

Tabuk city Mayor Ferdinand Tubban receives Pamana plaque of award for good governance from Gov. Jocel Baac during the celebration of the 18th Kalinga Day and Ullalim Festival. (Peter Balocnit, PIA-CAR/Kalinga)

(L-R) PIA 8 Director Olive Tiu, National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) Executive Director Forter Puguon and Mayor Manuel Sia of Dulag, Leyte during the media interaction Harampang ha PIA in Tacloban City, March 5. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) Executive Director Forter Puguon (center) in partnership with the Philippine Coast Guard represented by LTJG Paul Ryan Gonzales, MARINA represented by Santiago Acerea and Dulag, Leyte Mayor Manuel Sia Que sign the memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Basic Safety Training for Motorboat Handlers/Operators and Fishermen during the Harampang ha PIA in Tacloban City, March 5. The signing was witnessed by PIA 8 Director Olive Tiu, NMP Deputy Executive Director Presca Lugo, Melba Esquibel (NMP) and some members of the media. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

More than 11,000 runners join the Bulawan Run to Rebuild in Compostela Valley on March 3, 2013. The event is graced by Hon. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara- representative, Lone District of Aurora and Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV. Proceeds of the activity shall be used for the repair of school buildings and other infra needs in the province. (Photos:A. Dayao, P. Rendon/IDS ComVal)

More than 11,000 runners join the "Bulawan Run to Rebuild in Compostela Valley" on March 3, 2013. The event is graced by Hon. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara- representative, Lone District of Aurora and Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV. Proceeds of the activity shall be used for the repair of school buildings and other infra needs in the province. (Photos:A. Dayao, P. Rendon/IDS ComVal)

Despite the government’s effort through the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) and the local government units (LGUs) to regulate fish pens in Laguna Lake, still, fish pens populate the lake touted to be one of the five largest freshwater lakes in the whole of Southeast Asia. The proliferation of fish pens within the waters of Laguna Lake is considered as one of the contributors in the continuous silting of the lake thus causes heavy flooding in the lakeshore municipalities during typhoon season. Photo taken at Barangay Tadlac, Calamba City, Laguna. (Photo & caption: Carlo P. Gonzaga, PIA 4A)

Cebu Provincial Board Member Miguel Magpale (far left) with Public Information Office Consultant on Administration Perla Agudo (center) during the mass for the inauguration of new Cebu PIO Building. The building also houses the capitol-run Cebu TV and Cebu Monthly which will cater to all sectors and to all municipalities and cities of Cebu. (VVV/PIA-CEBU)

As early as six in the morning, a subsistent fisherman from Barangay Sucol, Calamba City tries his luck to catch fish in the waters of Laguna Lake. Below, a dotted aquarium fish (left) and janitor fish (right) both inedible are some of the fish species that abound Laguna Lake. (Photo & caption: Carlo P. Gonzaga, PIA 4A)

Bangued Mayor Ryan Luna (top photo, 2nd from left) and Social Security System (SSS) President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros Jr. (top photo, 2nd from right) unveil the new AlkanSSSya unit that will store the daily savings for SSS contributions of tricycle drivers and operators during ceremonies held at the Bangued Town Plaza in Abra province. Each AlkanSSSya unit contains 160 individual compartments with coin slots where members can conveniently put in part of their daily income as they go about their everyday work. During the launch, Bangued tricycle drivers and operators (bottom photo) flock around "AlkanSSSya" unit to drop their first-ever savings under the microsavings program, which SSS introduced to informal sector workers in 2011 to address their difficulty in accumulating and remitting savings for monthly contributions. Also present at the event last December 18 (top photo, from left) were SSS Assistant Vice President for Luzon North Division Luis Olais and SSS Senior Vice President for Luzon/NCR Group Jose Bautista as well as members of the Sangguniang Bayan of Bangued, which earlier passed a resolution requesting the inclusion of 4,200 Bangued tricycle drivers and operators under the AlkanSSSya program last April 30, 2012. (SSS)

Engr. Oliver Hernandez, chief of Department of Education Physical Facilities and Schools Engineering Division (center), leads the groundbreaking activity at Pantay National High School (PNHS), Teresa, Rizal on March 4, to formally start the construction project in the said school and to mark the beginning of construction activities in various school sites. PNHS is among the recipient schools of the ongoing phase 1 of the Public-Private School Infrastructure Project (PSIP). (DepEd)

DOST and PAGASA together with Advance Science and Technology Institute (ASTI) in cooperation with LGU-Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur conducted a seminar/workshop on the use of Automated Weather Station data for disaster preparedness on March 1, 2013 at Glupa Gulian Agro-Tourism Park attended by barangay chairmen, science teachers and local officials.

The Department of Agriculture is allotting an initial P65 million (M) to construct several infrastructure projects to further boost the productivity and incomes of farmers in Quezon. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said the projects include a P45-M farm-to-market road (FMR), from Barangay (Bgy.) Ibabang Talim with Bgy. Ilayang Iyam, in Lucena City, a P15-M rice processing center, and a P5-M small water impounding project (SWIP) in Bgy. Ibabang Talim. He is shown instructing Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) Region 4-A engineer Ernesto Brampio to fast-track the SWIP, during a capsule-laying ceremony, February 27, 2013. Joining them are BSWM director Silvino Tejada (2nd from left), Barangay Ibabang Talim captain Rolando Ebreo (right), and DA Region 4-A director Vilma Dimaculangan (partly hidden). The DA chief also led the launch of the ‘National Year of Rice’ campaign, starting with a holy mass at St. Ferdinand Cathedral officiated by Bishop Emilio Marquez, and a series of farmers’ forum in Lucena, Atimonan, Plaridel, and Lopez, where he handed over and raffled off to farmers P2.7-M worth of hand tractors, water pump engine sets, rice harvester-cutters, threshers, knapsack sprayers, draft animals with implements and Anglo Nubian breeder bucks. (Photo by Jose Lucas, DA Information Service)

Regional Launching of DSWD and Tesda Cash for Training Project with guest of honor Sec. Joel Villanueva, director general of Tesda, and ASEC. Teodulo R. Romo Jr. held at Bren Z. Guiao Sports Center, City of San Fernando, Pampanga. (PIA 3)

Officials of the Social Security System (SSS) and Simbag sa Pag-Asenso, Inc. (SEDP) applaud after the two institutions signed an agreement providing better social protection for thousands of informal sector workers across southern Bicol and northern Samar. The diocese-run institution, which is often referred to as "SEDP" from its former name Socio-Economic Development Program, covers more than 32,000 micro-entrepreneurs and home-based workers who are mostly from the Albay province, where the organization is based. Under the agreement, SEDP can facilitate its members’ applications for SSS registration, salary loans and funeral claims to make SSS transactions easier and more convenient for them. Photo shows SSS President and Chief Executive Officer (PCEO) Emilio de Quiros Jr. (4th from right) shake hands with SEDP PCEO Rev. Fr. Jose Victor Lobrigo (4th from left) during the agreement signing held before hundreds of SEDP members at the La Piazza Hotel and Convention Center in Legazpi City, Albay province on February 4. Also in photo are (from left) SSS Cooperatives and Informal Sector Department Head Nora Mercado; SSS Senior Vice President (SVP) for Accounts Management Group Judy Frances See; SEDP Members Development and Service Officer Rev. Fr. Laurence Bringino; SSS Special Assistant to the PCEO Ma. Lourdes Mendoza; SSS SVP for NCR/Luzon Operations Group Jose Bautista and SSS Bicol Division Head Nilo Despuig. (SSS)

Eddie Cera (left), head of the Gawad Kalinga in Pangasinan, enjoins volunteers and partners to participate in the Bayani Challenge slated on March 23-27, 2013 in Alaminos City. The theme this year is "Isang Bayan, Isang Bayanihan." The challenge expects 3,000 volunteers to come to Pangasinan to be part of a nation-building movement. Some of the activities include building houses and planting mangrove and trees. (Photo by rolanaoe/PIA-Pangasinan)

Gov. Amado T. Espino Jr. of Pangasinan reports the achievements of the provincial government from 2007-2013 in his State of the Province Address (SOPA) delivered last February 18 in front of the Capitol Building in Lingayen town. Espino takes pride of a new Pangasinan – a consistent top performer in local governance, leading tourist destination and a favorite venue for big events. (Photo by rolanaoe/PIA-Pangasinan)

Regional Director Riza J. Baldoria presents to the body the programs, projects and activities of PIA-NCR during the RDC-NCR Annual Budget Consultation held at the Bulwagang Amoranto, Quezon City Hall Monday, March 4, 2013. (Photo by: Jell Guzman/PIA-NCR)

Former Overseas Filipino Worker Sarah Balabagan (3rd from the left) poses with employees of Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and Philippine Broadcasting Service-Radyo ng Bayan (PBS-DZRB) after her talk at PIA's Monday Morning program right after the flag ceremony. She encourages people thinking of going abroad to deal only with government registered recruitment agencies. Balabagan was an OFW icon in the 90's symbolizing the plight of domestic helpers who were abused by their employers. (PIA)

National Artist Virgilio S. Almario (in Barong Tagalog with black hat) leads the opening of the Eksibit ng mga Pambansang Sagisag Kultura last March 1, 2013 at the Mariano Marcos State University - College of Teacher Education, Laoag City. The exhibit features cultural icons from different regions like notable persons and events in history, language, art, culture and traditions of the Philippines, indigenous plants and animals, food and materials, and beliefs that are part of the Filipino way of life. (Ariel Paolo A. Tejada)

Elsa R. Chan, regional director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for Ilocos, promises to provide science and technology intervention to uplift the lives of the people of Bagulin, La Union during a recently held memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing between DOST, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University and the municipal government of Bagulin.The MOA aims to mitigate concerns on health and nutrition, water and sanitation, education, hazard mitigation and livelihood. (Caption: MPAquino / Photo: VVillanueva Jr.-PIA1 La Union)