Training on 3D-mapping for DRR conducted in Mercedes, Camarines Norte

By Rosalita B. Manlangit

DAET, Camarines Norte, Jan. 21 (PIA) -- A three-day training on Participatory 3 Dimensional Mapping (P3DM) for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) was conducted in Palm Resort, Barangay Cayucyucan of Mercedes town headed by The University of Auckland, New Zealand from January 15-17.

Dr. JC Gaillard, Associate Professor of the School of Environment of the university said the training was in partnership with the DRR Net Philippines, local government units of Camarines Norte and Mercedes through their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices.

He explained that the P3DM consists of building stand-alone large-scale relief maps made of locally available and cheap materials over people overlap thematic layers of geographic information.

During the training, the participants plotted land use and other geo-referenced features threatened by natural hazards and climate change and differentiate them according to their vulnerability.

He said that the P3DM training will empower organizations involved in DRR with the required knowledge and skills to develop P3DM activities with their partner communities in the different contexts all over the Philippines.

The P3DM fosters the participation of a large range of stakeholders, especially the collaboration among scientists, government officials, and local communities in the integration of bottom-up and top-down DRR measures.

Dr. Gaillard said that earlier, they have conducted a research on, “Sustainable Livelihood in the Pacific in a Changing and Hazardous Environment” in Caringo Island, also in the said town.

He said that aside from the research, the community in Caringo was trained and able to produced three 3D maps. One of these maps locate Caringo within the municipality of Mercedes. The second map covers the whole island while the third one covers the area where most of the households reside.

He explained that 260 families in Caringo will benefit from the 3D maps because this indicate information that are needed in planning DRR in the area.

Dr. Gaillard also said that the community in Caringo Island who made the 3D maps in the said area were those who trained the participants in the P3D mapping training in Palm Resort wherein the latter have produced a large 3D map for the whole town Mercedes.

PDRRMO Carlos Galvez, on the other hand, said that the Mercedes town was lucky that the project was conducted here that in turn will be of great help in planning DRR in the area.

He added that he will replicate P3DM in the province and in the remaining 11 towns.

The resource person during the training was Lorna Victoria of the Center for Disaster Preparedness Foundation, Inc.

The participants were representatives from Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA); Damayan ng Maralitang Pilipinong Api (DAMPA); Marinduque Council for Environmental Concerns (MaCEC); Center for Disaster Preparedness (CDP); Coastal CORE; Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP); World Vision Development Foundation, Inc. (WVDFI); Ateneo School of Government (ASoG); Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM); Citizen Disaster Response Center (CDRC) ; De La Salle University (DLSU) Jesse M. Robredo Institute of Governance ;UP College of Social Work and Community Development (CSWCD) ; and Integrated Rural Development Foundation (IRDF). (RBM-PIA 5, Camarines Norte).


Army, UNTV medical mission benefit 1,900 residents
CASTILLA, Sorsogon, Jan 21 (PIA) –--The 903rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, in partnership with the UNTV Network, conducted its first medical mission benefiting 1,986 residents of 10 barangays of Irosin town in Sorsogon on January 15.

“With the opportunity extended to the Philippine Army to recommend areas for medical missions, the 31st Infantry Battalion, under the Brigade’s operational control, designated Barangay Gabao in Irosin as the first beneficiary for CY 2013,” said 903rd Brigade Commanding Officer Col. Joselito E. Kakilala.

Supporting UNTV in this laudable undertaking is the Kamangagawa Foundation Clinic ni Kuya Daniel Razon and Bro. Ely Soriano. The local government led by Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr. sent their municipal doctors and nurses to join said activity.

The Sangguniang Barangays including barangay captains of the 10 adjacent barangays, were also present and brought their constituents to avail of the free medical services offered.

Col Kakilala said the medical mission included medical and dental services, x-ray services, and optical check-up with free eyeglasses distribution. Soldiers from the 31IB also provided free haircut and therapeutic massage.

“The activity benefited 1,986 clienteles of 10 barangays of Irosin town. Of the total number, 315 adults and 366 pedia were given medical check-ups, 145 for dental, 260 for optical, 35 on reflexology, 95 haircut services and 745 recipients of free medicines. The UNTV’s X-ray van which traveled all the way from Manila also served 25 local residents,” he added.

Col Joselito E Kakilala further said that UNTV’s medical missions have made a huge difference in the lives of the people of Sorsogon, especially to the indigents. “This endeavor is in line with the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan- Bayanihan,” he said.

Meanwhile, barangay chairperson Teresa Pontalan of Barangay Gabao said it was the first time, that they experienced a medical mission with plenty of medicines and with many doctors, nurses and other medical practitioners congregated in their place.

Irosin Municipal Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr, on the other hand, said that the medical mission boosted the health services program of the municipality providing prompt treatment and adequate medicines to their people. (MAL/BAR/Cpt MPanesa-PA/PIA5)


PNP strengthens campaign towards a peaceful May 2013 Elections

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Jan 21 (PIA) -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) Provincial office in Camarines Sur will strictly implement its campaign to ensure clean, fair and peaceful election 2013 pursuant to its “Cam Sur Safe 2013” headed by its Provincial Director.

Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) personnel have been instructed to intensify the conduct of focused police operation for the upcoming elections this year under Cam Sur Safe 2013, Psupt. Jerry F. Bearis, Camarines Sur PNP deputy provincial director for operation, said.

This also will involve the creation of Provincial Task Group Safe 2013 and establishment of Joint Security Assistance Desks (JSADs) in all polling places.

Part of the operation is its campaign against Private Armed Groups (PAGS) by strict accounting of wanted persons and intensified search warrant operations, strengthened operation against gun-for-hire, conduct of chokepoints and checkpoints and increased effort on the conduct of operations against notorious motorcyle riding in tandem criminals.

Based on their records, PNP Camarines Sur was able to attain 63.66 per cent province-wide Crime Clearance Efficiency (CCE) having cleared 1,179 cases out of 1,852 crime incidents.

Members of the PNP will also firmly pursue OPLAN Sita and Operation Bakal pursuant to their campaign against loose firearms. Along with this, they will also carry out operations geared towards the curtailment of the insurgent’s extortion activities.

In 2012, PNP Camarines Sur recovered a total of 40 loose firearms, 11 magazine and 165 pieces of ammunition. Along with this campaign, police authorities arrested 35 persons , all charged with violation of Republic Act No. 8294.

The provincial police’s intensified campaign against dangerous and illegal drugs resulted in 41 successful anti illegal drug operations in various parts of the province. It also resulted to the arrest of 47 personalities and confiscation of 8.78 grams of suspected shabu, 27.196 grams of suspected marijuana dried leaves and 3 pieces of full blown Marijuana plants. Cases have been filed against the suspects before the court.

To sustain these positive developments, the PNP management will continue its operations against illegal drugs, intensify search warrant operations geared towards the eradication of Shabu and marijuana and pursue barangay clearing operations to ensure that the community is free of the said illegal substance.

Bearis said all of these activities and related campaigns are not just geared towards the attainment of their mission to keep the community safe, but more so to ensure that the upcoming elections will not mar the peace and order situation of the province.

In addition, PNP Camarines Sur has already activated the operation of its e-blotter, e-rouge and e-warrant program in every police station both at the city and municipal levels. (LSMacatangay/ PIA-Camarines Sur)


1, 528 families benefit from government’s core shelter project

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Albay, Jan. 21 (PIA) -- A total of 1, 528 families from eight villages in Daraga, Albay formally received their certificates of completion and occupancy for core shelters from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Corazon Pitero, head of the Social Protection Unit of DSWD, said the beneficiaries of the core shelter project include typhoon victims and displaced families in Albay and Bicol, now provided with permanent and decent houses.

The families came from the villages of Alcala, Binitayan, Bañag, Busay, Bañadero, Cullat, Tagas and Malabog, all in Daraga town.

Pitero was joined by Daraga Vice Mayor Carlito Baylon, Albay Provincial Social Welfare Officer Yolanda Guanzon and municipal officials in the turnover ceremonies.

“These families were left homeless during the series of strong typhoons that devastated the areas for the past years, and this time each family beneficiary was given materials and utilized to build the houses of their own with vigour and dedication,” Pitero said.

She added that one of the factors in the successful implementation of a project is when the beneficiaries themselves collaborate and unite in the project implementation.

Core shelter is a structurally strong and environment-friendly shelter unit which can withstand up to 180 to 220 kph wind velocity, intensified four earthquakes, flooding and other similar hazards.

The project is a restoration and rehabilitation strategy that uses work teams to provide labor for the construction.

DSWD has already turned over 8,268 units regionwide.

While DSWD was responsible for the shelter units for their counterpart, the Daraga municipal government augmented the needed construction materials and the provincial government provided the relocation site.
Meanwhile, an additional 135 core shelter units will also be turned over to beneficiaries in Polangui town. (MAL-PIA5/DSWD5/Albay)
 

SSS-Legazpi opens clinic for members, employees

By Sally A. Atento

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 18 (PIA) -- The Social Security System (SSS) recently opened its branch clinic or physical examination (PE) center here to ensure faster and easier delivery of medical services to employees and members in this city.

Dr. Rosalind S. Zantua, SSS Legazpi medical specialist, said SSS employees and members in the province particularly those with sickness and disability claims can avail of services for free.

Among these services are private checkups, consultations, and other basic medical equipment and supplies such as medicines.

“With the separate clinic in our branch, medical services are now centralized and more private. Unlike before, our claimants are often within hearing distance of other transacting members,” Zantua added.

PE centers in around 54 SSS branches all over the country have been opened simultaneously including Legazpi and Naga for the Bicol region. Each center has a waiting area and examination table enclosed with a curtain. Assessment will be done six months after for a possibility of opening more branch clinics.

Zantua also urged members with medical claims to come personally to their office or for check up and evaluation of their condition.

“For members who will be filing for sickness or disability claims, they better come personally in our clinic for check up and evaluation so we can also help them determine how many days they should file for a claim.

However, in case, they cannot come personally, we have mobile doctors to check them,” Zantua explained. (MAL/SAA-PIA5, Albay)


Bicolano senator welcomes Comelec ruling on political ad airtime
By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 18 (PIA) -- A Bicolano senator welcomed the Commission on Elections (Comelec) ruling shortening the airtime that a political candidate may buy for campaign ads, saying the move would level the playing field for all candidates.

Senator Francis G. Escudero remarked that those who have deep resources will no longer lord over the airwaves and leave those who have meager resources way, way behind.

“At least no single candidate can put one over the other in terms of airtime. It’s a fair game for everyone, it’s a welcome thing,” he added.

But the senator also said the Comelec’s regulations on internet campaigning remains a vague issue, given the innovative concept of the internet technology.

Comelec Resolution 9615, which covers the airtime acquisition ceiling, said “online advertisement, whether procured by purchase, or given free of charge, shall not be published more than three times a week per website during the campaign period.”

Chairman Sixto Brillantes said online election propaganda includes ads posted on social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook.

Escudero said internet regulations have many loopholes, and the Comelec has not yet developed the core competence to provide and define standards for its usage.

“It still leaves more questions than answers. How can Comelec monitor it? For example, how do they count the minutes used by a particular candidate? What if someone uploads an ad without the candidate’s knowledge or permission? Will that be counted against his airtime? What if ill-meaning protagonists will use this free uploading just to discredit a political rival?" he asked.

"These are realities that I hope the Comelec will tread with caution and consideration,” Escudero said. (MAL-PIA5, Albay)

DPWH closes Pawili Bridge to big vehicles

By Analiza S. Macatangay

PILI, Camarines Sur, Jan. 17 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regional office in Bicol has issued anadvisory on January 12 to temporarily bar big vehicles from using the Pawili Bridge in Barangay Pawili in this town, which is in the brink of collapse, to ensure the safety of the motorists and the riding public.

Planning engineers of the DPWH central office recommended closure, following assessment that the bridge is already in its critical stage and is structurally unstable for buses, cargo trucks and similar vehicles.

DPWH officials already designated alternative routes to motorists plying the Naga-Legaspi direction and vice-versa passing through the Pawili brdige.

The agency suggests the Nabua-Balatan road which is a national road and its adjoining area, the Panoypoyan, Bula area which is considered as a provincial road.

The 26-kilometer stretch which starts from Bula town proper until the exit point at Maharlika Highway will mean a one-hour detour to motorists and commuters who have to bear the rough roads in some of the portion of the route.

Another possible route is the four-kilometer course traversing the Himaao-Pawili road belonging to the Penafranacia Sugar Mill.

Punong Baragay Ariel Besmonte of Pawili, Bula said that the said route was also used in 1996 when the said bridge was also being to rehabilitated. This is currently not passable due to the broken spillway that connects the adjoining barangays of Pawili and Himaao.

Preparation of the road as alternate detour will also mean huge expenses on the part of government. The commuters then have no choice but pass through the only passable detour which is through the Nabua-Bula alternate route until the rehabilitation phase is over. (MAL/LSM-PIA5, Camarines Sur)



Climate Change Academy continuously training LGUs, NGOs


By Maya Filipina A. Madroño

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 17 (PIA) -- Pursuing its objective to educate the country’s local government units and non-government organizations on disaster risk reduction and climate change awareness, Albay Climate Change Academy is now on its eighth batch of trainees from Region 11 or Southern Mindanao.

The DRRM and CCA training started in October 12, 2012 and had already trained many local government units and non-government organizations coming from Regions of Mimaropa, Calabarzon, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Northern Mindanao.

The seminar will be held at Albay Climate Change Academy. It will be attended by experts who will serve as the speakers. They will be coming from the partner agencies and organizations of the Academy including those from the Office of Civil Defense, Ateneo School of Government, and Albay Public Safety Office.

Region 11 or Southern Mindanao which is composed of the provinces of Compostela Valley, Davao Del Norte, Davao Del Sur, and Davao Oriental can be regarded as befitting addressees of the said seminar considering the affliction these endured after being hit by typhoon Pablo last December 2012.

The experiences that the trainees have from typhoon Pablo will be reflected on the first day of the seminar since it will focus on understanding disaster risk by looking at past disasters.

A comprehensive lecture will also follow which will be about the kinds of hazards, distinction between disasters related hazards and climate change hazards, identifying early warning signs of disasters and human vulnerability and readiness against disasters.

On the second day, focus will be on the different approaches, principles, and laws regarding disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.

They will also take up the rules and studies created by United Nations’ International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR) including the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA), Global Assessment Report (GAR), United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPPC) Special Report on Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation (SREX).

There will also be a briefing about the disaster risk reduction management and climate change laws in the Philippine context. The rules in decentralizing DRR agencies in their respective provinces will also be taken up.

There will be field visit in selected evacuation centers, resettlement areas, flood control areas, and hazard areas on the fourth day of the seminar.

At the end of the seminar, the participants are expected to share the reflections that they gained during the training which can be used to enhance succeeding seminars. (MAL/MAM-BU/PIA5, Albay)

Albay Guv says Oslob butanding promotion abusive, violated ecological standards

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 14 (PIA) -- Albay Gov. Joey Salceda labelled the promotional campaign recently launched by promoters in Oslob, Cebu as abusive and violated ecological standards putting the whale shark, and the tourism industry, at risk.

Salceda even tagged the act as “eco-terrorism” rather than “eco-tourism” the underwater fashion photo shoots showcasing the gentle giants of the sea being fed and being with international fashion models.

Salceda, who also chairs the Bicol Regional Development Council (RDC) and heads the Almasor (Albay-Masbate-Sorsogon) Tourism Alliance, said in an interview that he would call on the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to take strong and punitive measures against the abusive promotion made by event sponsors and promoters including the models.

The Albay governor said, “this is all very wrong--it is eco-terrorism, not tourism--they should be jailed for animal cruelty.”

Salceda noted that this kind of promotion would send a wrong signal to the rest of the world where the ecological standards - especially in the tourist markets - have heightened, instead of promoting the event.

“Such would instead expose and degrade the entire Philippine eco-tourism industry,” Salceda added.

Tourism, he stressed, is the fastest growing industry and with the most market potential, but with our inability to take care of our nature, including animals, these prospects would come to naught.”

“The promotion only subtracts rather than adds to our attraction in the long term since it shows we do not know how to take care of nature--so travel operators and agencies would expect these eco-tourism destinations to deteriorate eventually,” the environmentalist governor pointed out.

“Let’s put an end to the whale shark abuse by setting up measures that would protect these creatures,” he added.

Salceda also took notice of a report that the low sighting of butanding in the coastal waters of Donsol town in Sorsogon was due to the scarcity of planktons being eaten by whale sharks.

He said the lack of planktons must be scientifically established, but in between December to date and with the report that Oslob is feeding them again, it is so obvious that these gentle creatures might have diverted again.

Domestic and foreign tourists visiting Donsol town for a whale shark interaction recently complained of the scarcity in the sightings of the sea creature. According to reports, of nine whale sharks that attracted hundreds of tourist in last year’s season, only two had been sighted by the end of December last year. (MAL/MSA-PIA5/Albay)

1M seedlings planted in 2012 - DENR

By Edna A. Bagadiong

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Jan. 17 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) provincial office here said almost one million seedlings and mangrove propagules were planted in the province of Catanduanes in 2012 in line with the National Greening Program (NGP) of the government.

According to Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) officer-in-charge Joaquin Ed Guerrero, 574,290 timber-fruit trees and ornamental seedlings were planted in 1,160 hectares in the towns of Bato, San Andres, San Miguel, and Virac.

A total of 338,888 mangrove propagules, on the other hand, were planted in 72 hectares of swampland in Panganiban and San Andres towns.

President Benigno S. Aquino III issued Executive Order No. 26 ordering and declaring the implementation of a National Greening Program as a government priority. The target of the program is to plant 1.5 billion trees covering about 1.5 million hectares by 2016.

Aside from being a reforestation initiative, the NGP is also seen as a climate change mitigation strategy as it seeks to enhance the country’s forest stock to absorb carbon dioxide, which is largely blamed for global warming. It is also designed to reduce poverty, providing alternative livelihood activities for marginalized upland and lowland households relating to seedling production and care and maintenance of newly-planted trees.

Catanduanes Mangrove Planters Association, Inc.; Samahang Pangkabuhayan ng Palawig; Mayngaway Upland Farmers Association, Inc.; Buyo Upland Farmers Association, Inc.; Genitligan Upland Farmers Association, Inc. and Samahang Magsasaka sa Maunlad na Lupa ng Progreso in San Miguel, among others, were among participants to the series of tree-planting activities in the province.

Said groups were given P1,000 incentive for every hectare planted which covered site preparation, hauling of seedlings, plantation establishment as well as maintenance and protection which was charged to the Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) savings of DENR.

CENRO officer-in-charge Luzvimindo Chioco said that the accomplishment for 2012 NGP will be verified by a team of validators from DENR central and regional offices. (MAL/EAB-PIA5, Catanduanes)

CSC now accepting applications for Career Service Exams

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 17 (PIA) -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) regional office here has announced that provincial offices of the commission has been accepting application for the career service examinations, both sub-professional and professional, to screen prospective job applicants in government.

CSC information officer Yoyie Jalmanzar said in a radio program “Ugnayan sa Bikol” of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that the commission will administer the examinations this year in testing centers in this city, Naga City, and Masbate City.

CSC, according to Jalmanzar, will conduct the written examinations this year on April 14 and October 13.

“For the April 14 schedule, applications are being accepted at CSC field offices nationwide until February 28,” reminded Jalmanzar.

CSE are general ability tests designed to measure verbal, analytical, numerical, and clerical skills.

Passing the CSE entitles one to either a Professional or Sub-Professional eligibility which, along with education, experience and training requirements, is needed for permanent appointment to corresponding positions in the government career service.

Jalmanzar explained that the examination is open to Filipino citizens, regardless of educational attainment, who are at least 18 years old at the time of filing of application and who have not taken the same level of examination in less than three months.

However, taking different levels of examination within the said period is allowed.

Jalmanzar furthered that other examinations to be administered for the year include the Foreign Service Officer Examination (FSOE) Qualifying Test and the Fire Officer Examination (FOE) on March 10; the Local Scholarship Program-Modified (LSP) Written Examination and the Penology Officer Examination (POE) on August 11.

The CSC advises interested applicants of the said government examinations to visit the nearest CSC regional and field offices nearest in their areas. (MAL-PIA5, Albay)

BJMP re-assigns district jail personnel in Bicol

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Jan. 17 (PIA) ---Fourteen Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) personnel, including chief Jail Superintendent Wilmor T. Plopinio, were discharged of their current functions in the city's district jail and re-assigned to different jail units.

This, after BJMP Special Orders Number 2013-01 from the BJMP 5 took effect last January 7 through a formal turn over ceremony.

Plopinio was assigned as full time administrator of Camarines Sur BJMP while Jail Superintendent Bernardo M. Sanchez was transferred and designated as officer in charge of the district jail of this city. They will be joined by JO1 Marifel Sarte who was formerly assigned at the Tigaon District Jail.

Jail Chief Insp. Dominici G. Batacan was relieved from Tigaon District Jail and re-assigned as officer-in-charge at the Iriga City District Jail.

Jail Officer 1 Rene Zaldy D. Catangui who will be swapping post with Mamatod will be with Batacan as the latter will be re-assigned at the Iriga City District Jail, Camarines Sur BJMP.

Also affected by the reshuffle of personnel are Jail Senior Inspector Michael Richard R. Oliva, formerly assigned in Iriga. He will be transferred at the Tigaon District Jail while Jail Officer III Mamarinta P. Mamatod who was also detailed at the Iriga City District Jail will be relocated at the Pioduran Municipal Jail, Albay BJMP.

At the Regional Office in Legazpi City, Jail Senior Inspector Gerardo B. Yuson was the newly designated Officer-in-Charge of the Operations Division while Jail Sr. Insp. Ave Are was tasked as Officer-In-Charge of the Personnel Record Management (PRM) and Human Resource Divisions (HRD), BJMP Regional Office.

Jail Chief Inspector Alberto Toledo Jr was relieved from the Regional Office V but was re-assigned as OIC at Albay BJMP. He is also the concurrent OIC of Legazpi Jail. Jail Sr. Insp. Danilo Boarao was also designated as Officer-In Charge of the Program Development and Community Relations Service (CRS) Division at BJMP Regional Office V.

The re-shuffle, according to Plopinio, is being done by their bureau in line with their existing policy, especially for personnel who have already spent 2 years in the service. This is also to avoid familiarity between the inmates and the jail officers. (MAL/LSM-PIA5, Camarines Sur)

Albay authorities issue advisory on countermeasure for cold weather

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 17 (PIA) -- At the onset of cold weather Albay province is presently experiencing, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) and Provincial Health Office (PHO) both issued Wednesday a bulletin on precautionary measures to avoid cold diseases and other injuries.

Albay Governor Joey Salceda, chair of the PDRRMC, said the bulletin recommends countermeasures to avoid diseases or injuries that may result in lowering of body’s core temperature or mal-adaptation to cold weather.

Salceda noted that cold-weather injuries may affect health due to decreased temperatures, carbon monoxide poisoning, and accidents due to impaired physical and mental function resulting from cold stress.

Pagasa recorded that Albay, along with some areas in the country, has been having cold temperature of 20.4 degrees Celsius these days and more head.

In said bulletin, residents are advised to keep warm and wear clothing the likes of jackets, sweaters, socks, hats and scarves or knit masks to cover the face and the mouth; long-sleeves that are up to the wrist; mittens and water-resistant coats and shoes.

“Also, one should avoid going outside if it is raining. If one becomes soaked, it will be colder and will further reduce the body temperature. Keep house closed to preserve warm room temperature," the advisory stated.

When going outside, layer with loose-fitting clothing, turn off air conditioning units and stock food, water and other household and personal necessities to minimize outside movements, it added.

The advisory also recommends giving special care and attention to babies and elderly.

"Overall, use thick clothing to keep their body warm. Infants lose body heat more easily than adults; additionally, infants can't make enough body heat by shivering," it added.

It furthered that infants less than one year old should never sleep in a cold room. "They should be provided with warm clothing and a blanket, at the same time maintaining a warm indoor temperature."

“In an emergency, keep an infant warm using a young adult’s body heat. Older adults often make less body heat because of a slower metabolism and less physical activity. If you are more than 65 years of age, check the temperature in your home often during severely cold weather,” the advisory said.

The bulletin also advised the public to check on elderly friends and neighbors frequently to ensure that their homes are adequately heated.

Another precautionary measure is to eat hot foods, especially soups, citing that eating well-balanced meals will help you stay warmer. Avoid liquor as they cause your body to lose heat more rapidly. Instead, drink warm, sweet beverages such as hot chocolate to help maintain your body temperature. If you have any dietary restrictions, ask your doctor.

Other measures are to cover one’s nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing; in case one develops fever, seek consultation immediately; hospitals should prepare for the admission of victims of hypothermia and increased incidence of cold weather-related diseases; and the public is advised to take precaution as the use of firewood or charcoal fires for heating and cooking within an enclosed dwelling is extremely dangerous due to carbon monoxide poisoning and it may cause fire. (MAL-PIA5, Albay)


CSC-5 calls on Bicolanos to submit nominees to 2013 Honor Awards Program

By Sally A. Atento

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 17 (PIA) -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) regional office here called anew on government employees and officials, including the private sector, to nominate outstanding individuals to this year’s Honor Awards Program.

Yoyie Jalmanzar, CSC information officer, said the CSC is currently conducting information dissemination drives to encourage more nominees in the region particularly barangay officials and employees.

“We need the help of residents of Bicol to aid us recognize government workers with exemplary performance who are often left unnoticed,” Jalmanzar said.

The Honor Awards Program is open to government officials and employees, individual or group, under two categories. These are awards for outstanding work performance and award for exemplary conduct and ethical behavior.

Under the first category is the Presidential or Lingkod Bayan award given in recognition of the nationwide impact on public interest, security and patrimony of one’s exceptional or extraordinary contribution. It also includes the CSC Pagasa Award for outstanding contribution that directly benefit more than one department of the government.

DILG Sec Jesse Robredo, the Bicolano champion for good governance, was among the Lingkod Bayan awardees in 2012. It was posthumously conferred by President Benigno Aquino III at the Malacanang Palace.

The Outstanding Public Officials and Employees Award or Dangal ng Bayan on the other hand is given for extraordinary act of public service and consistent exemplary ethical behavior. The basis of which are the eight norms of behavior provided under Republic Act No. 6713, otherwise known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Jalmanzar further assured nominees of technical assistance from the CSC to help them in the packaging of needed write-ups and documentation.

Awardees for Lingkod Bayan and Dangal ng Bayan categories will receive P200, 000 cash and other forms of incentives while Pagasa awardees will have P100,000 cash reward.

“Added incentives might be given for this year’s awardees,” Jalmanzar said.

Deadline for submission of nominations is on March 29, 2013. (MAL/SAA-PIA5, Albay)

DOH-Center for Health Development Bicol Conduct the Kalusugan Pangkalahatan Implementation Coordinating Team Meeting last January 14, 2013 held at R.C. Daguinsin Hall, DOH-CHD Bicol, Legazpi City. (Alex Cal/PIA-5)

Bicol PNP chief orders reshuffle of 17 police chiefs

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 16 (PIA) -- Chief Supt. Clarence Guinto, regional chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bicol, has ordered the reshuffling of 17 chiefs of police in three provinces in the region.

Supt. Renato Bataller, PNP Bicol spokesperson, said on Tuesday that affected by the order last Jan. 11, two days before election period, were 10 chiefs of police in Camarines Sur, two towns and two cities in Albay and three towns in Camarines Norte.

Bataller said the chiefs of police were reshuffled in the towns of Libmanan, Nabua, Ocampo, Bonbon, Cabusao, Calabanga, Camaligan, Canaman, Magarao and Pili, all in Camarines Sur; Libon and Tiwi towns and the cities of Legazpi and Ligao in Albay; and the towns of Daet and Mercedes in Camarines Norte.

He said, next to be reshuffled are town police chiefs in the provinces of Sorsogon, Catanduanes, and Masbate.

The reshuffled police officers range from senior inspectors to superintendent.

Bataller explained that the move is in anticipation of the Comelec election ban on personnel reassignment during the election period which kicked off Sunday, Jan. 13.

He furthered that the reassignment of police officers is a normal procedure of the agency because some of them have over-stayed their tour of duty while some have been tagged to be chummy with the local chief executives where they are assigned.

“We would like to remove these negative public impressions and doubts,” Bataller explained.

As the election period started, PNP Director General Alan Purisima has directed the PNP Bicol to heighten its campaign against loose firearms and the dismantling of private armed groups in Masbate, considered as among the 15 election hot spots in the country.

Purisima, in his directive, intends to send additional troops to Masbate to beef up the 240-man Regional Operation Task Group and the Police Special Action Force based in Mobo town in Masbate. (MAL/MSA-PIA5, Albay)


Environmentalist group suggests regulated construction of bldg, structures

By Edna A. Bagadiong

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Jan. 16 (PIA) -- The Mountain Cares and Hikers Association (MCHA), in its relentless commitment to ensure the preservation of mountain and shoreline environments, has called the attention of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Catanduanes to regulate the construction of buildings and structures along the shorelines of Virac and Bato towns.

MCHA is a non-profit organization dedicated to protection and conservation of mountains and coastlines in the province.

The organization urged SP members to invoke the provisions of Presidential Decree 1096 regulating the construction of residences, buildings, and other structures both public and private within and adjacent to foreshore and shoreline to ensure public access and safety.

According to the letter sent by the organization to the Provincial Board members, while their group believes that the provincial government is committed to the wise management of coastlines to sustain the economic value of the coastal zones, they also hold that preserving the quality of such resources requires public awareness that protection of shorelines is a responsibility shared by every member of the community.

They pointed out that the construction of permanent structures on shorelines of San Vicente in Virac and Marinawa, Binanuahan, and Cabugao in Bato is a violation of Article 51 of Presidential Decree 1067 or the “Water Code of the Philippines.”

The group believes that regulating the construction of residences, buildings, and other structures, both public and private, within and adjacent to foreshore and shorelines will ensure public access and safety.

They suggested that to ensure compliance with such laws, local governments can declare structures that hinder access to shore as “nuisance” and can have them removed.

Members of MCHA are the following: Ruben C. Geromo, president; Sammy V. Laynes, vice-president; Fernan A. Gianan, secretary; Gabriel Tejerero, chairman; Gil A. Balmadrid, vice-chairman; and Winifredo Molod, Pedro R. Arcilla, Alexander Ang Hung, Napoleon De Luna and Richard T. Bernal, members. (MAL/EAB-PIA5, Catanduanes)


Army's 903rd Brigade, 9th Battalion adjudged best units in 9ID for 2nd Sem, 2012

By Benilda A. Recebido

CASTILLA, Sorsogon, Jan. 16 (PIA) -- The 903rd Infantry Brigade and 9th Infantry Battalion consistently maintained their titles being Best Brigade and Battalion, respectively, of the 9th Infantry (Spear) Division for second semester in 2012.

Col. Joselito E Kakilala, newly installed commander of 903rd Brigade who replaced newly promoted BGen Felix J Castro Jr AFP, and Lt. Col. Julian C Pacatan, 9IB commanding officer, received the Command Certificates of Recognition awarded by Major Gen Romeo V Calizo, 9ID commanding general, after the New Year’s call and Command Conference at 9ID headquarters on January 10, 2013.

The 903rd Brigade covers Sorsogon and Masbate provinces in the conduct of Internal Peace and Security Operations (IPSO), while the 9IB, under the Brigade’s operational control, covers Masbate province.

Kakilala noted that considering the imperatives of IPSP “Bayanihan” and its emphasis on both combat and non-combat dimensions of military operations, the Brigade during the period, had accomplished more than the expected output including neutralization of seven NPA personalities: killed two unidentified lawless elements; apprehension of three lawless members; and, one surrendered.

Along with the combat operations, he added, 24 firearms were gained (20 high powered/ four low powered), although many of these were outside the focus area.

The recovered firearms included: eight M16, one M653, one M14, two Garand rifles, one Cal. 38 revolver; one .45 Cal pistol; eight homemade shotguns; 12 landmines (Anti-tank); five improvised claymore mines (anti-personnel); 30 Molotov bombs; and other subversive documents.

Kakilala furthered that the establishment of a Barangay Defense System (BDS) acted as Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) in the cleared barangays especially in holding areas.

“This has been proven effective as the CNNs find difficulty in recovering lost areas particularly in Castilla, Pilar, and Donsol municipalities, all in Sorsogon,” he added.

“Similarly, the unit pursued efforts to link with agencies that could help in the development of the communities in Sorsogon and Masbate. It has opted to focus its efforts in certain areas rather than have projects in many dispersed barangays. By pouring in development projects in selected focus areas, the improvement could easily be felt by the people and there is a higher chance of success. Neighboring communities will eventually also benefit from the improved economic environment,” he explained.

Kakilala also bared that the 903rd Brigade has been active in the programs of Pamana Convergence for Sorsogon which involves representatives from the different government agencies has been a good venue to recommend infrastructure projects and target areas for development.

The two covered provinces in its area have received funds for development - Sorsogon P40 million (seven focus municipalities) and Masbate P68 million (three focus municipalities). Furthermore, in Masbate, P500-million infrastructure projects are programmed next year.

The unit also facilitated the conduct of four Medical, Dental, Optical and Legal Missions sponsored by UNTV Channel 37 in Brgy San Francisco; Brgy Butag, Bulan, Sorsogon; Brgy Rizal, Sorsogon City; Brgy Poblacion, Pilar Sorsogon together with the elements of 31st Infantry Battalion, staff and volunteers of Clinic ni Kuya and Kamanggagawa Foundation Inc. with the support of LGUs and DepEd.

The Brigade, according to Kakilala, was able to establish links with the ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya Foundation, Inc for the construction of classroom buildings in Pandan National High School in Castilla, Sorsogon and another in Cabangcalan Elementary School in Aroroy, Masbate.

Moreover, the Pinoy Big Brother, Sagip Kapamliya Foundation, Maalaala Mo Kaya Program, the 903rd Infantry Brigade, 9th Infantry Battalion, and the 565th Engineer Battalion partnered in the construction of a two-classroom school building in Sitio Mababoy, Brgy Guinhadap, Monreal, Masbate.

The Lewis College and ABS-CBN are the other partners for education. The Brigade has now 22 Bayanihan scholars enrolled at the college, while two other scholars who took Tesda courses were sponsored by ABS-CBN foundation.

The Brigade also partnered with the Fiber Industries Development Authority (FIDA) for the abaca planting projects in Brgy Pandan and Salvacion in Castilla. The one-hectare nursery in each barangay has already been emplaced.

It is a long time program that will benefit these barangays as well as adjacent ones and municipalities in the near future.

Kakilala concluded that the Army's 903rd Brigade has been able to perform exceedingly well in its combat and non-combat operations.

This could be attributed to a pool of well-motivated, well-trained, and experienced personnel who get the job done. (MAL/BAR/Cpt. MPanesa-PA/PIA5)