Biotech Seminar held in Naga City

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, May 31 (PIA) -- Members of the academe, leaders of various farmers organizations, media, and other stakeholders attended the Modern Agricultural Biotechnology seminar held at the Avenue Plaza Hotel here on Monday.

The activity was spearheaded by the Biotechnology Coalition of the Philippines (BCP) and the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) in coordination with the Department of Agriculture Regional Office.

The activity endeavors to promote the safe and responsible use of modern biotechnology and to serve as a vehicle for government to attain its national development goals in terms of food security, poverty alleviation, improved health care, sustainable development, and most importantly, ensure the protection of the environment in the midst of the rising technology.

Atty. Marito T. Bernales, Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) President said that the university strongly support this laudable act of the government and other sectors in bringing into fore this golden opportunity to help modernize agriculture.

“We, at CBSUA, just like any other state universities and colleges (SUCs), had been mandated to provide professional training and to promote research and extension services and enhance progressive leadership in the field of agriculture, among others, as internal initiatives and in collaboration with other agencies, both government and private.”

Modern agricultural biotechnology is being eyed as an effective option to increase farmer’s input, enhance farmer’s income, and contribute to local development.

One of the invited speakers, Dr. Antonio Alfonso, PhilRice Chief Science Research Specialist and team leader of the Golden Rice Project, discussed the importance of promoting the new breed of golden rice, which he said is the solution to the malnutrition problem being faced by our countrymen.

Golden rice is a new type of rice that contains beta carotene, which is a rich source of Vitamin A. Scientists and researchers from leading organizations had been working together to evaluate Golden Rice as an effective source of Vitamin A.

Deficiency in Vitamin A is the leading cause of blindness among children and increases the risk from certain common infections among young children.

Significant concerns tackled during the confab also include the overview of Biotechnology and ensuring the safety of biotech crops, and the regulation of biotech crops in the Philippines. (LSM-PIA 5, Camarines Sur)



Diskwento Caravan last leg in Polangui, Albay on June 26-28

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, May 31 (PIA) -- Parents, students, and other stakeholders in Polangui town and other neighboring areas will have a chance to buy school supplies at a discounted price of at least 10 percent in the Diskwento Caravan’s last leg in Polangui town on June 26-28.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Education (DepEd) have since May 15 offered school supplies discount through the Diskwento Caravan staged across the country.

The project, according to DepEd, is part of the government thrust to make available to the public quality school supplies at affordable prices.

An inter-agency coordination and support from local manufacturers and private business groups make it possible to offer huge discounts on school opening essentials for public schools.

DTI has also since published in national broadsheets the suggested retail price (SRP) of school supplies to serve as guide by the buying public. Also, it will distribute SRP posters in school supply outlets and in other government offices.

Moreover, its Bureau of Product Standards has advised the public to look for “non-toxic” labels on school supplies which means that the level of toxicity has been approved by the Department of Health.

Initially, the Diskwento Caravan for Region 6 was held on May 23-29, Region 3 on May 25, Region 4-A on May 27-29, Region 11 on May 28, National Capital Region on May 29 while Regions 8 and 9 Region conclude the caravan for the month of May on May 30-31.

The Diskwento Caravan for the month of June is set to kick off on June 1 at Zamboanga Del Norte of Region 9 and on Taguig City of NCR. Region 6 will have a six day-schedule for the caravan on June 5, 6, 8, 15 and 18 at Guimaras and on June 14-16 at Brgy. Villamonte, Taculing, Bacolod City.

On June 11-12, the caravan will be in Cagayan de Oro City and at Davao Oriental on June 15. Zamboanga City will hold the caravan on June 22.

Region 5 will have the last schedule for the 2012 Caravan on June 26-28 in Polangui. (MAL-PIA 5, Albay)



Diarrhea case in Nabua, Camarines Sur contained

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, May 31 (PIA) –-- After weeks of battling with diarrhea cases, patients downed with the said disease and confined in different hospitals in the nearby municipalities started going home after medications and treatment were administered to them.

This morning, Maria Consuelo Loquias, Nabua Rural Health Unit 2 Midwife confirmed that based on their monitoring, most of the affected residents had already checked out of the hospital and are now recuperating after days of confinement.

“As of yesterday, we have monitored at least three patients who were already discharged. Everyday we see to it that we conduct house visitations. We also conduct day-to-day monitoring with regards to their health status and found out that we don’t have any additional cases of diarrhea in addition to the reported cases earlier,” Loquias said.

Nabua Mayor Delia Simbulan said that the local government unit, in coordination with their municipal health office has already taken immediate measures to control the spread of the said disease.

“ We cautioned the residents from getting water from the deep well, which could be the possible source of the bacteria, and we told them to drink mineral water instead pending the result of the water samples sent to the Department of Health by our rural health units. Chlorination of water sources and distribution of stock solution is now ongoing,” Simbulan said in an interview.

Dr. Stephen Beltran, Nabua Rural Health Physician has confirmed last week that more or less 70 residents from Barangays La Purisima, Sto. Domingo, and Malawag were affected with diarrhea. Three patients died while in the hospital.

Dr. Beltran said that water contamination could be the possible cause of the disease since the residents are using a deep well as a communal water source.

“ The sole water source of the residents is a deep well where they get water for drinking, washing and bathing. There could also be fecal contaminants since septic tanks are located meters away from the water source. We have already instructed the residents to make use of the stock solutions to deter further cases of diarrhea,” Beltran added.

Most of the barangay residents can not afford to pay for water services, settling themselves in using water pumps instead. (LSM-PIA 5, Camarines Sur)

Convergence Caravan attests the impact of anti-poverty programs on beneficiaries

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, May 30 (PIA) -- Improved the quality of lives of the locals; and touched, inspired, and motivated lives to move on towards the future with bright prospects -- it seems government's anti-poverty programs, particularly the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Self-Employment Assistance Kaunlaran (SEA-K) are impacting on identified beneficiaries.

Poverty reduction and intensive social services programs of government in most areas in Bicol region have undeniably improved the quality of lives of the residents.

This affirmation was made by the beneficiaries of the programs during the convergence caravan held in Bagamanoc, Catanduanes and Claveria, Masbate led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office in Bicol.

Director Remia Tapispisan of DSWD V said the convergence caravan synchronizes all programs of DSWD into a single activity to present the accomplishments of the government programs through the testimonies of the beneficiaries.

“We are conducting the convergence caravan in different parts of the region because this serves as a right venue to educate the people how the programs of the government help poor communities. No one can speak about the program’s success but you (beneficiaries),” Tapispisan said.

Beneficiaries’ testimonies on how the different programs have helped them in different ways were featured to give guests an idea on what the impact of these programs have on their lives.

It need not take huge, ambitious programs to lift the lives of these people; just simple projects like a working water system and food control are what matters to simple folks. So attested punong barangay Edwin de Leon, who has been the village chief since 2002 of Barangay Hinipaan, Bagamanoc when he shared just how Kalahi-CIDSS changed the lives of the people through said projects.

“In the past, the barangay council only dreamt of building projects for the community, and Kalahi-CIDSS transformed this into reality. Most of the people in Bagamanoc have witnessed how the government had helped 104 households through its water system subproject in 2006. Even more important, is our concern for the project, as can be seen in how we have maintained it until now,” de Leon said.

Public Schools District Supervisor (PSDS) Brenda Villarey of Bagamanoc revealed that through the support of the 4Ps program, there was a notable decrease of dropouts for the past three years.

“In Bagamanoc, there are 773 student-recipients of the conditional cash grant by 4Ps which provides sufficient educational support to potential dropouts. They are now active members of the schools’ activities,” Villarey added.

SEA-K was showcased in the Convergence Caravan in Claveria, Masbate through booths selling furniture, native delicacies, dried fish, and other products made from indigenous materials.

Four beneficiary barangays in Claveria received P530,000 through the sustainable livelihood program.

The caravan also served as an venue for government officials and the people to meet and share their insights about the different programs of DSWD. The engagement of the local government units (LGUs) and other government agencies in the caravan make frontline services of the government more accessible to the Department’s beneficiaries. (MAL-PIA 5, Albay)



DTI heightens price monitoring on school supplies in Catanduanes

By Edna A. Bagadiong

VIRAC, Catanduanes, May 30 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office here heightened monitoring activities in different stores and business establishments in the province to ensure supply sufficiency and stability of prices of schools supplies.

DTI Catanduanes provincial director Ireneo B. Panti said that the agency is closely monitoring prices of school supplies with the help and cooperation of other government line agencies and private sector.

Last week, the department began conducting surprise inspections on the major business establishments in the province particularly in the municipality of Virac.

Target of said inspections is to to keep tight watch on the distributors and retailers of school supplies such as notebooks, pad papers, pencils, crayons, and ball pens, in order to prevent unreasonable price hike and proliferation of unsafe school items as the demand of the said goods increases.

Panti said that the consumers must also take responsibility in choosing the products to purchase. According to him, buyers must examine the products' label to ensure its safety and quality.

DTI has also published the Suggested Retail Prices (SRPs) of selected school supplies in newspapers and in its website to guide consumers on their purchases at the same time alert retailers to sell within the published SRPs.

SRPs are issued by manufacturers to retailers so as to ensure market share and fair competition in the market. These guide prices include production cost, distribution cost, and profit margins of retailers and distributors. (MAL/EAB-PIA 5, Catanduanes)

Community folks graduate from short-term courses

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, May 29 (PIA) -- A total of 67 community folks from Presentacion, Camarines Sur will be the newest addition to the country's work force and among those who had finished short-term technical vocational courses in the region.

Of the total number of graduates, 16 achieved the needed proficiency in dress making, 20 in baking and food processing, 13 in electrical installation, and 18 in automotive mechanic.

The graduation ceremony took place at the Buklod Training Center, Barangay Cagnipa, Presentacion.

The project was implemented in Barangays Cagnipa, Lagha, Ayugao, and Pili , all in Presentacion as part of the integral sustainable development of rural communities embodied in the Philippine Development Plan of 2012.

The special focus of the project were women, with the objective of strengthening productive social structures through active community participation.

Roy Nelson G. Layosa, Convenio Coordinator said that the graduates will request for the allocation of funds for the conduct of technical vocational courses in their respective Annual Investment Plans and the implementation of programs that would provide livelihood opportunities for technical vocational graduates like them.

“We want the graduates to immediately put to work what they have learned. We want them to realize that there are greater opportunities ahead of them and ultimately build that confidence, “ Layosa added. (LSM-PIA 5, Camarines Sur)

DOLE Bicol optimistic 40% of 2012 grads will get jobs

By: Marlon M. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, May 28 (PIA) – At least 40 percent of the more than 26,000 graduates of the recently concluded school year will have jobs within the year, while the remaining 60 percent of these graduates may be placed in the succeeding two years or so.

This, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional office here, is a conservative projection of the job placement and employment trend that may be seen in the region for the next 3-years.

DOLE V regional director Nathaniel V. Lacambra said that the employment plight, of what is said to be Bicol labor’s ‘fresh meat’, will rely mostly on the ability of the region’s local job market in absorbing the graduates and the open mindedness of the graduates in overseas work.

The number of graduates of school year 2011-2012 was based on the records of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). DOLE V meanwhile has utilized the CHED data in determining  or devising strategies in responding to address the unemployment trend brought about by the influx of newly grads.

 “If the current economic situation in the region) continues to rise steadily in the areas of construction, tourism and services industry, then we can say that the region is actually ready to absorb at least 30 percent of the graduates. From there we can strategize on how to place the remaining bulk” Lacambra added.

In the management conference of DOLE’ regional and provincial officials as well as employment focal persons early this month, Lacambra directed all the agency’s attached bureau to have a close coordination with CHED, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), city and municipal business licensing divisions and the Department of Tourism (DOT)  benchmarking the graduates’ courses, skills competency and possible vacancies available region wide.

The data gathering strategy will provide DOLE V a perspective of the employment needs and trends of the region thereby creating room for a more direct response on how to place new and future graduates.

Raymond Cadis-Velasco, 19-yrs. old, a native of Aroroy, Masbate, 4th year management student of Bicol University, and who trained DOLE regional office here, is having mixed-emotions specially when it comes to landing a job after graduation next year.

Nauugma tapos nag-aalala.  Pero gare ok man ta nailing ko man ang iro kan DOLE uru-aldaw lalo na kung pano mapanuan ang mga warang trabaho. (I’m quite excited but anxious. But it’s ok since I can see that the DOLE is doing its best to address the unemployment problem) Velasco said.

DOLE V assistant regional director Exequiel Ronnie A. Guzman meanwhile said that the measures are paramount to carefully analyze the job vacancies solicited during jobs fair.

“One can note that the number of vacancies far exceeds the number of applicants, adding that during the Labor Day Mega Jobs fair alone the vacancies solicited jacks up to 6,560 while the officially registered applicants were only about 3,550,” he noted.

“We have jobs available. Although here, Bicolanos have close family ties wherein mostly they would want to work near home. The main reason why we are working closely with other government agencies to improve the business and economic situation of the region.  If more businesses and investors come to Bicol then surely there will be more employment opportunities.” Guzman added.

DOLE V remains optimistic of the employment state in the region noting that about 20 percent of the new graduates were already serviced by the office through the conduct of the two major jobs fair the Magayon jobs Fair in Legazpi City and the Labor Day mega Jobs Fair in Naga City.  (MAL-PIA V/Albay)

One-on-one dialogue with PCOO Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. (right) with PIA Director General Jose Fabia during the PIA Southern Luzon Cluster Review and Planning Workshop held at Vistamar Resort, Mabini, Batangas.

Albay climate change guidebook launched

LEGAZPI CITY, May 25 (PIA) -- The provincial government of Albay in partnership with the Manila Observatory (MO) and Chevron Geothermal Philippines Holdings, Inc. (CGPHI) launched the Albay Sustainable Development Guidebook (ASDG) as a means to empower localities in addressing climate change and disaster risks through effective resource management.

The guidebook, said Albay Governor Joey Salceda, can be used as a primary tool in building the capacity of Albay in terms of managing natural disaster risks.

ASDG highlights the technical studies conducted by CGPHI and MO on climate change indicators specific to the province in particular the geological, climate, disaster risks, and socio economic factors particularly in critical areas likely affected by natural disasters.

Also featured are planning and development outputs from the assessed water resources and geo-hazard areas including Malinao watershed and Tiwi coast which aims to identify vital resources and provide effective recommendations to address disaster risk.

Antonia Loyzaga, MO executive director, added that the guidebook is open for use by other provinces and municipalities as a template for designing their planning tools.

“We designed the Albay guidebook as an innovative tool to meet the challenges of climate change and various disasters, she said.

The guidebook is funded by CGPHI as part of their corporate responsibility and community engagement program. (MAL/SAA-PIA V/Albay)


GSIS assures best service for its members

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, May 25 (PIA) -- Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) members are assured of highest quality service in return for their entrusted contributions to the institution.

Mario J. Aguja, a member of the GSIS Board of Trustees said this during the recently held Regional Consultative Meeting with Public Sector Unions here at Venezia Hotel.

The meeting, attended by representatives of government and non-government employees union, focused on the discussion of the initiatives conducted by the new members of the GSIS Board of Trustees in reaching their target for the next five years particularly in rebuilding GSIS as the premier pension fund institution.

Aguja and Karina Constantino-David, former chairperson of the Civil Service Commision and also currently a member of the GSIS Board of Trustees, keynoted the consultation citing the expansion of service in various areas by adding Landbank of the Philippines as added service bank, which currently has 900 ATMs nationwide, and deploying around 500 GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System (GW@PS) kiosks in addition to 250 units nationwide.

Part of the revisions particularly in pension policies is the cancellation of Annual Renewal of Active Status, which requires pensioners to appear personally at the GSIS office to determine their status.

“Realizing the difficulty faced by our pensioners given their age and fragile health, we instead partnered with the National Statistics Office and the Local Civil Registry to determine the status of our local pensioners,” David said.

The new policy, to be implemented retroactively, finally granted survivors of members the right to receive their monthly pension even if they are gainfully employed or receiving income.

Meanwhile, David disclosed the need to realign the database system particularly in posting and reconciliation of accounts, which has been a long-standing concern.

The rest of their target for this year include crafting of new insurance policy with bigger savings, 24/7 call center to open possibly this June, and one-stop shop set up in all field offices. (MAL/SAA-PIA V/Albay)


Poverty-reduction projects for Sorsogon, Masbate towns underway

LEGAZPI CITY CITY, May 25 (PIA) -- Juban town of Sorsogon and San Pascual of Masbate formally launched recently this month the "Poder y Prosperidad de la Comunidad-Phase 7," according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office here.

This, after the respective local governments of the two municipalities and DSWD signed the memorandum of agreement on the implementation of the project that will aid the former in providing basic social services to poor families or communities.

DSWD V regional director Remia T. Tapispisan explained that PODER 7 is a project of the agency and the Agencia Española Cooperacion Internacional para el Dessarrollo (AECID), in cooperation with the local governments.

PODER’s main goal, according to the regional director, is empowering local communities through improved participation in local governance and involvement in the design and implementation of poverty-reduction development interventions.

“PODER, including other projects of DSWD, do not only involve building infrastructures or providing facilities for basic social services but also capitalize on building up human capacity to promote progress even after the projects end,” Tapispisan said.

PODER 7 adopts the community-driven development strategies, similar to what is being used by Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), where people from the communities identify, design, and implement the project based on their own needs.

The project promotes and institutionalizes community participation, as well as transparency, accountability and responsiveness of MLGUs.

Communities, usually the barangays will be required to submit proposals on their needed projects, while the local government will assess, consequently, decide which to prioritize among the projects will be implemented based on the exigent needs of the communities.

Showing strong local governments’ support and cooperation in carrying out DSWD’s flagship poverty alleviation program, Juban and San Pascual’s strong engagement in Kalahi-CIDSS has allowed these municipalities to become the recipients of grant fund of P21 million from AECID under PODER 7.

Juban will be allocated P11.25 million while San Pascual’s grant allocation is P9.9 million.

Juban and San Pascual have also respectively committed P3.3 million and P 2.9 million local counterparts as both municipalities are more than willing to continue participating in the PODER 7 project. (MAL-PIA V/Albay)

Naga City placed under state of calamity due to rising dengue cases

By Lizel S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, May 24 (PIA) -– The alarming rise of dengue cases prompted the city government here to place the city under state of calamity.

Mayor John Bongat of this city said the Sangguniang Panlungsod has filed and already approved a resolution Tuesday (May 22) declaring state of calamity following the recommendation of the local government health office citing that 25 out of the 27 have already recorded rising number of cases of dengue.

For the last quarter, dengue victims reached 303, with Barangay Dayangdang topping the list with 36 cases followed by Barangays San Felipe and Concepcion Pequena with 30 and 20 cases respectively. Other barangays have recorded ranging from 1 to 16 cases.

The Sangguniang Panglungsod responded by allotting P1 million for the purchase of chemicals to be used in eliminating dengue carrying mosquitoes and larvae in breeding places. Part of fund will also be utilized in the education and information drives of the city government to raise awareness among the locales in combating the menace.

Barangay officials were also encouraged to take an active part in spearheading clean up and information drives to activate all barangay health committees in giving lectures regarding the importance of keeping their surroundings clean at all times.

This is also in line with the Department of Health’s latest campaign against dengue dubbed “ Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue” or ABaKaDa, an effort to rouse the community to take an active part in curtailing the threat of dengue in their respective barangays.

City Health Officer Dr.Vito Borja said the community plays a significant role in combating the recurrence of the virus.

“We need the consistent support of each member of the community for a zero-casualty campaign of our local government unit. It is actually as simple as going down to basic of keeping our surroundings clean to keep the virus at bay,” Borja said in an interview.

Borja advised each household to cover all water containers, declog roof gutters and cover stagnant water areas with soil. Old tires and cans in the backyards are also possible breeding places that need to be eliminated.

“For self protection, we are also encouraging the resident to wear long sleeved shirts, pants, and use mosquito repellants whenever needed,” Borja added. (MAL/LSM-PIA Camarines Sur)

“Isumbong ang Pusher” campaign launched

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, May 21 (PIA) -- A cash reward ranging from P1,000.00 to P1 million awaits any tipster who can point any drug pusher to the members of the Naga City Dangerous Drugs Board (NCDDB).

This is to lessen if not totally eliminate the drug menace that is continuously crippling the undertakings of the NCDDB towards a drug-free Naga City.

These objectives are embodied in the “Isumbong ang Pusher” campaign launched recently by NCDDB, in collaboration with the local government of Naga, Parole and Probation Office, Department of Interior and Local Government, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, National Bureau of Investigation, and other stakeholders.

NCDDB, which serves as the exclusive policy-making, monitoring, and coordinating body on the prevention and control of drug abuse in Naga City initiated the program in the hope of gaining the community’s support in deterring drug related incidents, particularly curtailing the proliferation of illegal drugs in the city.

Hon. Alex C. Nero, NCDDB Presiding Officer, said that the board will execute programs and projects for implementing short-term, long-term, and sustainable solutions to the drug abuse program of the city.

“We want to save the users, specially the youth who are usually the vulnerable prey in this drug deals and bring into the folds of law the pushers who are ruining the future of their victims,” Nero said in an interview.

The blessing and inauguration of the new NCDBB office located at the Civic Center, here in Naga City was simultaneously done during the launching of the said campaign. Nero said that they need a bigger space to accommodate their clients. This, he said, is a sign that the community is already taking an active part in deterring the drug trade in the city.

Naga City Mayor John Bongat said that Naga is the only local government unit which has initiated the institution of a dangerous drugs board. Bongat, thru City Ordinance 2001-064 created the said entity when he was still City Councilor.

NCDBB will continue to support the government’s campaign by promoting awareness on the dangers and ill-effects of drugs in the lives of its every victim. They will continue to conduct community outreach programs, and will incessantly produce and publish campaign materials to awaken the community’s great role in stopping the illegal drug trade.

Tipster may reach the NCDBB through hotline numbers: 698-3053 or through their mobile hotline, 09179992696 or 09186154262. (LSMacatangay/ PIA-Camarines Sur)


82 school buildings ready for occupancy

Roads and other infra due for repair

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, May 21 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Bicol has completed 82 school buildings in time for the opening of SY 2012-2013, according to the agency’s top regional official.

“With the concerted efforts of the regional and district engineering offices in Bicol, the completion of the repairs was fast tracked and finished ahead of the school opening on June 4,” noted DPWH V regional director Danilo E. Dequito.

Dequito recalled that last year and in early part of 2012, almost all areas in the region encountered unfavorable weather conditions, heavy rains, tropical storms and typhoons, hampered the repairs. Only during the second quarter of this year did good weather condition enable the DPWH to construct or repair the school buildings.

“Of the 82 newly constructed school buildings, 16 are in Albay, eight in Camarines Norte, 26 in Camarines Sur, two in Catanduanes, 20 in Masbate, and 10 in Sorsogon,” he said.

“Allocation came from the Department of Education (DepEd) CY 2011 Infrastructure Program in the total amount of P57.138 million,” he added.

DPWH V meanwhile, according to Dequito, is also fast tracking the completion of regular maintenance work including repair of potholes and repainting of pavement markings along national roads near school sites. “This will ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists,” the director said.

DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson earlier issued Department Order (DO) No. 29 directing all DPWH field officials to strictly enforce existing orders on the removal of obstructions and prohibited use within the road right-of-way (ROW) of national roads.

“Clearing our national roads from all obstructions will mean better quality and safer roads,” said Director Dequito.

Singson, in the same directive, required the submission of reports on the inventory of all illegal structures and obstructions including utility posts along sidewalks and shoulders on or before June 15 and status report and inventory on the removal of these structures/obstructions on or before July 3 and every end of the succeeding months.

“The Secretary is very determined to recover the road right-of-way for the safety of pedestrian and general public,” Director Dequito said.

“To those concerned entities, please consider this news as a notice for you to vacate or clear the road ROW. This is for the well being of everybody,” he added.

Identified as obstructions within the ROW were buildings, houses, shanties, stores, shops sheds, posts, canopies, billboards, signage, advertisements, fences, walls, railings, basketball courts, garbage receptacles, plants and plant boxes, driveways and ramps occupying or protruding to the sidewalk, humps, construction materials (gravel, sand, cement, lumber, steel bars, waste materials, etc.), and vehicles and equipment that are junked, parked and occupying or protruding on the sidewalk or shoulder.

Prohibited uses within the ROW include vending, repair of vehicles, disposal household/commercial/industrial wastewater and sewage, raising of animals within ROW, washing and drying of clothes, crops and other similar items, sports and related activities. (MAL-PIA 5, Albay/LVC-DPWH V)

DTI-Sorsogon to conduct 'Diskwento Caravan'

By Benilda A. Recebido

SORSOGON CITY, May 20 (PIA) -- In time for the opening of classes for school year 2012-2013, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will conduct a “Diskwento Caravan” on May 23 to 24 to more than ten barangays in Bacon District, this city.

Dubbed “Diskwento Caravan: Balik Eskwela Edition,” DTI-Sorsogon provincial director Leah Pagao said the activity aims to provide opportunity for parents and students to avail of products sold at discounted prices.

Pagao said they will offer not only school supplies but also food items which the buyers can keep and make as packed snack of the students while in school, this is why we encourage parents and students to take this opportunity in order to save a big amount of money.

“We have also clustered some barangays by combining smaller ones to nearby big barangay and made the latter as the caravan venue to give the buyers longer opportunity to wisely choose the items they are going to buy,” said PD Pagao.

She also said that they have already coordinated with the officials of the target barangays for the wide dissemination of information to their constituents, and have also coordinated with the barangay police to maintain peace and order while the activity is going on.

“We also call on the public to help us disseminate the information so that those interested residents can, early as this time, coordinate with their respective barangay officials to know smaller details on where they will go and how they can avail of the products to be offered during the conduct of the said caravan,” Pagao also said.

The “Diskwento Caravan” will make rounds on the following schedules: May 23 – Barangays San Roque, Maricrum, Balete, Cabarbuhan, Poblacion and Caricaran, while on May 24 the caravan will be in the barangays of Bonga, Salvacion, Sugod and Bon-ot.

Six big establishments here will participate in the caravan where each one will have representatives to guide the buyers while shopping.

DTI is optimistic that by bringing these establishments to the barangays, parents aside from getting discounts will also be encouraged to send their children to school. (MAL/BAR-PIA5 Sorsogon)

78 trainees pass marine protection, water search training

VIRAC, Catanduanes, May 19 (PIA) -- A total of 78 trainees have passed the Marine Environmental Protection (MAREP) and Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) training spearheaded by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) from April 16 to 20 at Twin Rock Beach Resort here.

The five-day training was a collaborative effort of PDRRMC, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (MDRRMCs), Barangay Development Councils (BDC) and with the cooperation of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District Bicol.

The activity is pursuant to the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) inked by the provincial government of Catanduanes and the PCG.

It aims to cascade the water safety programs at the barangay level to empower the local constituents in minimizing the loss of lives of marginal fishermen and fishing implements during inclement weather at sea.

It also seeks to establish WASAR teams at the barangay levels to empower them in responding to emergency and first-hand rescue services.

This was the second WASAR training conducted in the province. The first was conducted last November 21-25, 2011 wherein 57 participants from five municipalities passed the training.

One component of the WASAR is the need to ensure the seawater from oil spill or any forms of contaminants and toxic substances which may endanger the marine’s flora and fauna. Thus, to institute preparedness and enhance the emergency response capabilities of the local folks, MAREP training was also conducted.

This will bridge the gap of the spill’s early containment while proper authorities mandated to disperse or intoxicate the area are still on transit. (MAL/EAB-PIA5 Catanduanes)


Masbate marine sanctuary emerging tourist haven in Bicol

By Marlon A. Loterte

 LEGAZPI CITY, Albay, May 19 (PIA) -- Bontod reef in Masbate City is fast becoming an eco-tourism destination in Bicol being a marine sanctuary and second most resilient reefs in the Central Philippines, an official of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Bicol said.

DENR regional director Joselin Marcus Fragada said sprucing up the Bontod reefs has made the marine sanctuary a showcase of resiliency by exhibiting its ability to recover and return to its desirable state from ecological ruins.

Fragada, quoting a study from group of marine scientists, that the Bontod reef ranked second in terms of resiliency from among the 18 reefs assessed in the Central Philippines.

Bontod reef is located in the Masbate Pass, southwestern coasts of the Bicol Peninsula.

The Bontod Marine Sanctuary is located at the western portion of Barangay Nursery, Masbate City. It is a shoal with an approximate depth of 10 meters and the gradual slope of up to 30 feet, occupying 52 hectares of core zone and 100 hectares of buffer zone.

A variety of marine life forms inhabit the sanctuary including hard and soft corals, target species such as coral breams, parrot fish, snappers, goat fish, among others and green sea turtle.

Tito Velza, Masbate City Coastal Resource Management Chief, said Bontod marine reserve was cited by the study for three reasons, these are: the thriving of Conch Shells locally known as “Budyong,” a widely acknowledged predator of crown of thorns sea stars that thrives on coral reefs.

As a marine sanctuary, it has strictly enforced a no-fishing order where it protected the area from fishing activities for the past five years, which led to the abundant presence of parrot fishes and surgeon fishes that fed on brown algae. The protection measure also produced brown algae or “Sargassum” that lives in coral cover.

The reefs’ proximity to deep water in Masbate Pass, and declared as a protected area, makes it a deterrent to growing fishing activities commonly occurring in shallow municipal water.

In the context of local fisheries and how it is affected by disturbances the extent by which we can anticipate fisheries decline and therefore prepare for what lies ahead is largely hinged on the resilience of its coral reefs.

Masbate City mayor Socrates Tuason fully supporting the Bontod Reef protection, acknowledged the ecotourism based livelihood assistance extended by the DENR Integrated Coastal Resources Management Project (ICRMP).

Fragada said the livelihood assistance would support the communities that were once dependent on the Bontod Marine Reserve for their sustenance.

To carry out the Bontod Marine Sanctuary ecotourism based livelihood enterprise, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) was recently signed by the DENR, the city government and the Samahang Mangingisda ng Puro-Sinalikway (SAMAPUSI).

The ecotourism-based livelihood enterprise would offer travel packages that suit the budget and the needs of both local and international tourists. Part of the tour packages are activities like swimming, snorkeling, boating, and a trek into the mangrove forest.

It will also showcase the reef adventure which will enable tourists to enjoy viewing the thriving helmet shells in their natural habitat. (MAL-PIA5 Albay)

A welcome remakrs delivered by DOST-V Regional Dir. Tomas B. Brinas, during the Seminar on the Production & Dissemination of Media Releases for S & T Innovation, Professionalism and Regional Development held at Florence Hall, La Piazza Convention Center, Legazpi City.  (Alex Cal/PIA)

Chief SRS, Communication Resources and Production Division, DOST-STI  Mr. Aristotle P. Carandang discuss the Production and Dissemination of Media releases for S & T Innovation, Professionalism and Regional Development, held at Florence Hall, La Piazza Convention Center, Legazpi City, today  (Friday) May 18, 2012. (Alex Cal/PIA)

DA spearheads Farmer’s Fest in Camarines Sur

By Analiza S. Macatangay

PILI, CAMARINES SUR, May 18 (PIA) -- At least 27 barangay food terminals (BFTs) participated in the recently concluded Farmer’s Festival and Regional Food Terminal Summit cum Agricultural trade fair held at the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Office compound here last May 14 to 16.

The three-day affair showcased variety of agricultural stuffs, organic harvests, and handicrafts produced by various agricultural organizations.

The fair was highlighted with the day to day event that capped the essence of the celebration; the Agri-Tiangge, which featured agricultural produce such as fresh vegetables, fruits, sea foods, recycled products, dried fish, other organic products on the first day; a Corn Cluster Mobile Conference and Regional Corn technical working group meeting where update on the Agri-Pinoy Corn Project was held on the second day, while the third day was declared as DA Employees Day and Livelihood Sector Day.

Other activities include the Farmer’s Forum on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security, DA-5 Funwalk and Summerfest celebration and the Farmers’ Training on the Sustainability of BFTs.

Anchored on the theme “Sapat na Pagkain, Sama-Sama Nating Kamtin,” the activity endeavors to celebrate the significant leap that the farmers and fisherfolks have achieved in increasing their productivity while strengthening their roles as active partners of the government in ensuring sustainable food production and ascertaining stable food sources in their respective communities.

DA Regional Executive Director Dr. Jose V. Dayao lauded the BFT for introducing innovative products to the consumers. This, he said, was also due to the technology updates and program advocacies that the department is pushing, particularly concerning market linkages and promotion.

The establishment of BFTs aims to develop an alternative market for the farmers, where they can have access to direct consumers while providing employment opportunities to community members through the various livelihood components like the establishment of satellite outlets, rolling stores, packaging and processing centers.

Dayao added that currently there are already more than 100 BFTs actively promoting the said program all over the Bicol Region. Partakers are given free technical assistance while farmer beneficiaries also undergo training. Provision of freezer chiller, weighing scale, coconut shredder, mixer and other equipment used in selling agricultural products are provided by DA to the accredited farmers’ organization.

Since 2007, a total of P10 million were already devoted to the food terminal projects involving the six provinces of the Bicol Region. Based on the record of DA, acceptance rate of the said program is high in the provinces as compared to the greater Metro Manila area.

BFT terminals serve as food depot and distribution outlets in the community offering affordable, safe and quality food products like meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, fruits, and basic commodities where not only the farmers are benefited but also the consumers who both enjoy the fresh agricultural products as well as its affordable price. (MAL/LSM-PIA Camarines Sur)

NGCP invests P355M project to expand South Luzon Substation

LEGAZPI CITY, May 18 (PIA) -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) is investing on a project worth P355 million to increase the operational capabilities of the firm’s South Luzon Naga Substation.

NGCP press statements bared the project involves the installation of an additional 100-MVA transformer, nine units 230-kV and three units 69-kV power circuit breakers and substation accessories.

The installation of additional equipment is expected to ensure efficient, stable, and reliable delivery of electrical power to its load center.

Likewise, additional substation capacity will help to avert overloading of the existing transformers.

The project is under NGCP’s Luzon Substation Expansion I, which includes Naga Substation and 6 other substations in North Luzon.

The Luzon Substation Expansion Project aims to accommodate load growth and N-1 contingency of various substations.

The project components prioritization was based on the latest update on the substation loading forecast. (MAL-PIA V/Albay/NGCP)


DA spearheads Farmer’s Fest in Camarines Sur

By Analiza S. Macatangay

PILI, CAMARINES SUR, May 18 (PIA) -- At least 27 barangay food terminals (BFTs) participated in the recently concluded Farmer’s Festival and Regional Food Terminal Summit cum Agricultural trade fair held at the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Office compound here last May 14 to 16.

The three-day affair showcased variety of agricultural stuffs, organic harvests, and handicrafts produced by various agricultural organizations.

The fair was highlighted with the day to day event that capped the essence of the celebration; the Agri-Tiangge, which featured agricultural produce such as fresh vegetables, fruits, sea foods, recycled products, dried fish, other organic products on the first day; a Corn Cluster Mobile Conference and Regional Corn technical working group meeting where update on the Agri-Pinoy Corn Project was held on the second day, while the third day was declared as DA Employees Day and Livelihood Sector Day.

Other activities include the Farmer’s Forum on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security, DA-5 Funwalk and Summerfest celebration and the Farmers’ Training on the Sustainability of BFTs.

Anchored on the theme “Sapat na Pagkain, Sama-Sama Nating Kamtin,” the activity endeavors to celebrate the significant leap that the farmers and fisherfolks have achieved in increasing their productivity while strengthening their roles as active partners of the government in ensuring sustainable food production and ascertaining stable food sources in their respective communities.

DA Regional Executive Director Dr. Jose V. Dayao lauded the BFT for introducing innovative products to the consumers. This, he said, was also due to the technology updates and program advocacies that the department is pushing, particularly concerning market linkages and promotion.

The establishment of BFTs aims to develop an alternative market for the farmers, where they can have access to direct consumers while providing employment opportunities to community members through the various livelihood components like the establishment of satellite outlets, rolling stores, packaging and processing centers.

Dayao added that currently there are already more than 100 BFTs actively promoting the said program all over the Bicol Region. Partakers are given free technical assistance while farmer beneficiaries also undergo training. Provision of freezer chiller, weighing scale, coconut shredder, mixer and other equipment used in selling agricultural products are provided by DA to the accredited farmers’ organization.

Since 2007, a total of P10 million were already devoted to the food terminal projects involving the six provinces of the Bicol Region. Based on the record of DA, acceptance rate of the said program is high in the provinces as compared to the greater Metro Manila area.

BFT terminals serve as food depot and distribution outlets in the community offering affordable, safe and quality food products like meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, fruits, and basic commodities where not only the farmers are benefited but also the consumers who both enjoy the fresh agricultural products as well as its affordable price. (MAL/LSM-PIA Camarines Sur)



DepEd Bicol gears up for school opening

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, May 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Bicol region has lined up activities in preparation for the opening of classes this June 4 including the 2012 Brigada Eskwela to be launched on May 21 – 26 says Alfredo Losito, officer-in-charge of DepEd V.

DepEd officer-in-charge Alfredo Losito said, through Philippine Information Agency’s Ugnayan sa Bicol radion program, the preparation is done in partnership with various non-government organizations (NGOs), civic personnel and the community to ensure the cleanliness and sanitation of schools.

Also part of the 2012 Brigada Eskwela is the construction of added classrooms and reparation of damages to accommodate the increasing number of elementary and high school students this year.

“Currently, we prioritize construction and repair of schools in far flung areas,” Losito added.

Aside from the Brigada Eskwela, he also mentioned that several private schools in the region will be increasing their tuition fees.

However, he assured the public that DepEd is doing its part in addressing the possibility of increase in the number of out-of-school youths due to the said tuition hike.

“For students who stop because they cannot afford the increase, DepEd has several programs and scholarships that can provide added subsidy for their education,” Losito said.

He also clarified that enrollees in public schools are not required to pay the contributions upon enrollment.

Should there be any violations or complaints on the part of the students, DepEd Office is open to address their concern, Losito added.

Youth Month in Naga full of activities

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, May 17 (PIA) -- The city government here, in collaboration with the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, city youth officials, and the Naga City Council for Youth Affairs launched various activities in line with the Youth Month Celebration this month.

One of the highlights of the said celebration is the Youth Day: i-Rehistro, a voter’s registration program slated on May 18, Friday, at the SM City Naga Activity center. The activity enjoins the youth to be active partakers in the upcoming political exercise. This will be followed by a youth forum which intends to tackle youth concerns and issues.

Later during the night, an environmental costume: play and fashion show dubbed as E-Cosplay which will showcase various outfits aimed at giving importance to the natural resources around us.

This week, various youth organizations also attended a painting seminar and workshop, essay writing contest, and a film showing on environmental awareness held at the AVR of the Science Centrum at the Naga City Hall Compound.

City Youth Mayor Her Lynn F. Balares said that all the activities they had mapped out for the whole month celebration aims to empower the youth of Naga and promote their well being through worthwhile activities. The venture, she said, will also encourage the youth to take their respective roles in effecting real change in their respective communities.

“Raising awareness among the youth is one thing and stirring them to action is another. Each one complements the other because sole knowledge is empty if there is inaction. Perhaps, the most valuable message that we want to impart to our fellow youth is, "So now, what can I do next for a better me and the future generations to come?" Balares said in an interview.

This year’s theme “Makisumaro, Makiiba, Kulturang Nagueño Satuyang Iorgulyo,” aptly coincides with the campaign being pushed by the city youth officials, particularly in raising national awareness and in the promotion of the rich heritage of Naga particularly its unique culture.

More activities were lined up for the youth in the upcoming weeks. It includes a Craft your Trash, a seminar-workshop on Creative recycling of junkfood wrappers and a youth fair dubbed as Negosyanteens on May 20; Health Check 101- a health workshop for Kids on May 23, a medical mission on May 25, and youth Fun Run for Mother’s Earth on May 27, among others.

The entire celebration is aimed at empowering the youth and make them active partners of the government in nation-building. (MAL/LSM-PIA 5, Camarines Sur)


40,000 seedlings to protect environment in Camarines Norte

By Rosalita B. Manlangit

DAET, Camarines Norte, May 17 (PIA) -- The provincial government, through the Ecosystem and Environmental Resource Management Division (EERMD), will distribute 40,000 forestry seedlings this year as part of the program to protect and preserve the environment.

Last year, the said office distributed 30,837 forestry seedlings to include mahogany, narra, and also additional seedlings like lubas, berva, dangcalan, camagong, anahaw, malig-ang, cacao, and langca.

The distribution will be made through private and public organizations and even individuals who wish to plant trees as their project in their locality.

Supervising Environmental Management Specialist Engr. Leopoldo Badiola said that this program will help preserve the environment and in turn will protect people from the effects of global warming.

Badiola cited that the project is also in partnership with the Bantay Gubat Volunteers assigned in the watershed in the towns of Basud, San Lorenzo Ruiz, and San Vicente that collect the seeds in their areas.

This project of Forestry Seedlings Protection Project and Tree Planting Program is under the Forestry Management Program of the EERMD of the provincial government.(MAL/RBM-PIA 5, Camarines Norte)



DTI’s Diskwento Caravan reels off

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, May 17 (PIA) -- Discounts from a minimum of 5 percent to a maximum of 50 percent will be given to shoppers who will purchase school supplies from the Diskwento Caravan of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) on May 18-19 at the ABS-CBN Compound here starting 9:00 a.m.

DTI provincial director Edna Tejada said that the activity aims to help the buyers, particularly students and parents, to avail of the discounted price of school supplies in time for the opening of classes this June 2012.

Tejada said that the Balik Eskwela will help consumers in completing the school needs of their children spending within their budget.

“We are expecting at least 10 exhibitors, including dealers, suppliers and wholesalers, and other stakeholders to join the DTI in pursuing this cause."

We have also partnered with ABS–CBN which supports our campaign to help consumers. This is also in consonance with the public-private-partnership being pushed by the Aquino government,” Tejada said in an interview.

Various school supplies, including bags, notebooks, and other basic commodities will be sold in the said caravan.

Jay Ablan, DTI Information Officer, said that aside from the discounted products, their invited exhibitors will also offer some freebies and promos.

“Just like in shopping malls, the Diskwento Caravan will also have various freebies, such as 10 plus one or something to that effect. For example, when you buy 10 notebooks, you might get a free item as part of the offered freebie. So it depends on the promos that our partakers have prepared,” Ablan added.

Tejada also imparted some tips on wise shopping in preparation for the opening of the academic year.

“It is important that we have a shopping list before we go to any particular store. It will be helpful if the buyer consult first the need of the student so that consolidation of volume and products to buy would be easier. It is also of primordial importance that we canvass the goods or supplies that we want to purchase. This enables the consumer to compare prices from different store. It is also important to note that some stores also offer promos and sales.”

And most of all, Tejada reminded the buyers to always ask for the Official Receipt. “If there are product defects, an official receipt will be the best evidence that you purchased a particular product in that store.”

Consumers can also go to the nearest Consumer Welfare Desk for any complaints or inquiry.

“If there are any defects on the products you had bought, go to the CWD for a change or refund. If the store doesn’t have any CWD, go to the office of DTI or call 473-8111 or 09196192227. The DTI will be happy to hear your concerns,” Tejada said in closing. (MAL/LSM-PIA 5, Camarines Sur)

Cloning technology to boost Bicol greening program

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, May 17 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) regional office here is currently constructing the new clonal nursery on the grounds of the Ecosystem Research and Development Service (ERDS) at Barangay 2, EM’s Barrio to reinforce the implementation of the National Greening Program (NGP) in the region.

According to ERDS Regional Technical Director William Palaypayon, the said facility will be operational by the end of May and is expected to boost the NGP implementation in the region.

Palaypayon added that the seedlings being bred at the clonal facility will have 80 to 90 percent survival rate since they will be taken from a wider genetic base, and selected from the finest mature trees.

Palaypayon explained that breeding will be done through enhanced cloning techniques such as application of rooting hormones, use of an area with controlled environment where newly harvested rooted potted seedlings are placed to allow gradual recovery and development of roots and shoots.

A mini-hedge garden will also be added to complement the cloning process.

Among the forest seedlings that will undergo the said techniques are sacat, batino, sambulawan, and dipterocarp trees, like white and red lauan, guijo, and guisoc, along with other seedlings suited for coastal areas and urban greening. (MAL/SAA-PIA V/Albay)